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Community shares law enforcement's grief, resolve

Courageous men sacrificed their lives Friday to protect their community.
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A bomb exploded at a Woodburn bank branch, killing two police officers. At this writing, a third — the Woodburn police chief — is in critical condition. A West Coast Bank employee also was injured.

This is a terrible crime.

Who knows what the bomb-maker intended? But make no mistake — this crime will be solved, no matter how long it takes. Law enforcement, with the public's help, will ensure that justice prevails.

Two of their own have been taken from them, and a third lies in critical condition following surgery.

Oregon State Police Senior Trooper William "Bill" Hakim, 51, was a detective in the Arson and Explosives Section. Woodburn police Capt. Tom Tennant, 51, had been with the city police since 1980. Both were killed. Woodburn Police Chief Scott Russell, 46, is hospitalized in Portland.

Our hearts go out to their wives, children, extended families and colleagues.

A casualty anywhere touches police officers everywhere. That's part of the kinship of law enforcement.

Friday evening the Marion County Sheriff's Office, which is leading the investigation, put out a call for assistance. Agencies — local, state, federal — immediately responded.

What can we do to help? they asked. Chaplains counseled grieving officers. Out-of-town cops filled in for Woodburn officers, handling their patrols. Investigators worked around-the-clock to track down every tip, every potential lead. And more.

The public also has responded, asking, What can we do to help?

The first thing is to share any shred of information that might contribute to solving the case and convicting whoever is responsible.

This tragedy is a reminder of how dangerous a police officer's job is, never knowing what the next call will bring. At all times, but especially now, officers need to know the community supports them, appreciates them, respects them and cares about them.