GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. – "On behalf of Dave, our children, our families, and myself, I thank you all for your continued support and tributes for Dave today. Engraving his name, displaying pictures, naming this building and scholarships are all amazing honors for Dave. Our children and the community will see these often and be reminded of Dave's incredible legacy.
"Scholarships are so appropriate as Dave firmly believed in education and helping others excel in their lives. The Wall of Honor, monuments around town, and especially the renaming of the sheriff's office building are such beautiful honors for someone who believed in honoring others. Dave has always shown such respect toward others who have served in the military and law enforcement.
Recommended Videos
"Once on a trip to Charleston, we were walking through the market when Dave stopped, turned back, and headed over to a bench where an older gentleman was sitting. Puzzled, I walked closer to see if he knew this man or if he needed assistance. Instead I realized in true Dave form, Dave had recognized this man was wearing a Medal of Honor and ribbon around his neck. He was a World War II veteran there for a reunion and Dave was thanking him for what he had done for our country. Dave went on to listen to this man's story, meet another Medal of Honor recipient with this man, proudly introduce us, and then bid them a good day. That's my Dave. It's just his way and now the honors are for him.
"He was so proud to serve his country and his community. He expected nothing in return. I wish he could stand here today for these honors. I wish he could be an old man sitting on a bench telling his story. I know Dave is proud and so honored looking at all of us today. He cannot tell his story, but I can. I will. I will tell our children, I will help others to remember and to honor his name. I will continue to make him proud, this amazing man, my wonderful husband, my darling Dave!
"However, I want everyone to remember Dave not for what happened on an awful February day, but for his 35 precious years of life. Dave should be remembered for the amazing way he lived his life and how he touched all of our lives. I am most thankful and most blessed for that."