>> This was my last official correspondence as a government official.
To the students and faculty of Sonshine School:
In 1995, your city suffered the tragedy of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah federal building. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (including myself) and almost every other agency with the means to do so, responded to assist.
One thing we didn’t expect to experience was the spirit of your community as you supported your neighbors’ grief as well as our efforts at the scene. I worked 16-hour days until we reluctantly shifted from rescue to recovery mode. Although I was honored to be in a position to respond, it was extremely demanding both physically and emotionally.
But I was blessed with a lifeline. A pink laminated card from Sonshine School. When I became discouraged or frustrated, I would draw strength from the spirit of six young students. They represented those who trusted and depended on us to find their loved ones and investigate this heinous crime. I've kept this card on my desk at every duty station in my career -- from Texas to Alaska -- as a reminder of the people we serve in law enforcement.
After 25 years of service I’m now preparing to retire, and would like to return this gift with my gratitude. As you can see, its creators were just 3 years old. You’re never too young to touch a person’s life.
To Gabe, Adin, Drew, Kyle, Nikki and Jordan – thank you for being my little angels.
Julianne Marshall
Senior Special Agent