A thank you from Aiken Public Safety

The men and women of the Aiken Department of Public Safety would like to thank our local Aiken community, the CSRA, our city and state governments and the entire nation for the incredible outpouring of love, prayers, and support during our time of need. While no one could have predicted tragedies such as these, you have honored Scotty, Sandy, and our entire public safety community in the most profound manner.

To the initial responders including our very own officers and fire division personnel, EMS, Aiken County Sheriff's Office, S.C. Highway Patrol, North Augusta Department of Public Safety, S.C. Law Enforcement Division, and the 2nd Judicial Circuit Solicitor's Office: The speed and determination of your efforts and response were nothing less than astounding. Within hours, a suspect was in custody, and no one else came to harm. No words can express our gratitude.

To our Aiken and CSRA community: From the time you learned of each incident, you responded with heartfelt concern, prayer, food, flowers and so much more but, most importantly, your unwavering support and belief in your public safety servants. Tents were erected, lawns neatened, photos printed and framed, meals delivered, cards sent, vigils held, fundraisers developed, memorials erected, the list goes on and on. You came out en masse to each viewing and lined the funeral procession route in rain and wind and sunshine. You cried alongside us and held us up as we mourned. Your faithful support has given us a renewed resolve to continue to serve this great community. Thank you.

To the numerous Aiken and CSRA area businesses: What an honor you bestowed on us by offering your goods and services in such a thoughtful manner. Your generosity will not be forgotten. Thank you.

To the local news media: Your respectfulness and tact demonstrated while covering these tragic events were evident. Your service to our department and the Richardson and Rogers' families were so very helpful. Thank you.

To Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Home and Shellhouse Funeral Home: As with many other area businesses, we have worked alongside you over the years. We never imagined we would use your services in the manner that we did. Your dedication and professionalism are second to none. Your steadfast concern and compassion for our families were comforting. Thank you.

To the University of South Carolina Aiken Convocation Center staff: Your exceptional service and over-the-top accommodation of our needs in the planning of both funeral services were amazing. Thank you.

To the numerous law enforcement, fire, and EMS personnel that responded from local posts and nationwide: Your commitment to serve both the public and your fellow public safety family is unfaltering. You traveled from both far and near just to be with us, you helped us plan and prepare funerals to the most minute detail, you worked long shifts to help us through our commitments, you stood shoulder to shoulder with us as we buried our brother and sister. Thank you.

To the medical professionals at Georgia Health Sciences and Aiken Regional Medical Centers: Your compassion, diligence, and professionalism were immeasurable. You stood beside us in our darkest hours. We are forever grateful for your dedication and perseverance. Thank you.

We are certain there are some not mentioned here. Please know that your selflessness, tears and service to our department did not go unnoticed. You are all appreciated in so many ways. We stand today as an agency grateful to have you beside us during the good times and the bad.

We remain truly in your service,

The men and women of the Aiken Department of Public Safety