(MOBILE, Ala.) - In the wake of the stabbing death of Mobile Police Officer Steven Green, Mobilians are leaving messages of comfort in a memorial book.
It's right inside the front door of Mobile Police Headquarters, just a footstep away from the The Honor Flag and a portrait of slain Officer Green.
JoAnn and the Rev. Howard Nelson came. Their son is a Mobile police officer, and they have sons in the military. They can relate.
"We just wanted them to know we appreciate them," said Rev. Nelson, "and by signing a book? That's the least we can do!"
"We just wanted to come and let the family know that we are thinking about them and keeping them in our prayers," said JoAnn Howard.
Most of those who write never met Officer Green. But that isn't important to Mobile resident Jerry Cochran.
He came because it was time to tell Green's families, both the one at home and the one at work, that they matter.
"I appreciate what all our law enforcement do for us," he said. "But seldom do we get the chance to tell them. And I thought this was a way just to show what they mean to us."
But some who come to sign the book did know Officer Green, beyond the badge. Green coached Gwendolyn Simmon's son in little league football.
"You know how some coaches get all rowdy and stuff?," she said, her voice quivering. "He was on 'em, but he was always quiet and humble. He loved that job."
Even after this memorial book is closed, Mobilians can still honor Officer Green.
How? Honoring those who serve and fust try to keep doing what Steven would have done.
