Thousands Bid Farewell To Sgt. Michael Smith At Public Service
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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - Thousands filled a Dallas church Thursday to pay their respects to Sgt. Michael Smith. Police from around the country joined a community eager to honor the fallen Dallas officer.
Sgt. Smith's family and friends had a chance Wednesday to say goodbye in a private ceremony, but the service at Watermark Community Church was an opportunity for the public to pay tribute to an officer who dedicated his life to public service.
As each day brings another funeral for another fallen officer, Smith's colleagues are open about their anger over last week's ambush. But Smith's one-time supervisor and long-time friend Lance Wyatt urged everyone to focus on happier times spent with the beloved officer.
"I believe that Sgt. Mike Smith, my friend would expect me and you all to focus on the good memories," Wyatt said.
An Army veteran, a devoted husband and father, and a Dallas police officer for 27 years, Sgt. Smith was remembered as a leader ready to lend some friendly advice to those coming up the ranks.
"When promoted to Sgt., Mike bought me a gift: a gold pen and a bottle of Advil aspirins. He said you will need the Advil more than the pen and said welcome to my world," Sgt. Anthony Tyrone Pickens told the crowd.
Described as intense and meticulous, Smith was also remembered for his compassion. Wyatt urged mourners to honor his friend with the values he cherished.
"In integrity, in commitment, honor, and love, we can carry Mike's legacy on and share those important qualities with our children and future generations," Wyatt said.
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