I had the great privilege of attending a ceremony yesterday afternoon in honor and memory of a very special officer and gentleman – my cousin, Frank Miller, Jr.

Frankie (as he is fondly remembered by our family) was only 25 years old when he was shot and killed in the line of duty as a police officer.

I sadly never had the opportunity to know Frankie.

For reasons beyond my control and better saved for another time, this family was not a part of my life for far too many years.

But we are making up for it, and I am so glad I was able to attend the ceremony to dedicate the ramp off of the McKeesport-Duquesne Bridge in Pittsburgh, PA  for Officer Frank Miller, Jr. (Frankie) with my Aunt Gwen and Uncle Frank, Cousins Dawn and Jen, and other family and friends.

It was a beautiful ceremony.

Thanks to Senator Jim Brewster for his efforts in getting legislation signed into law to name the exit from the McKeesport-Duquesne Bridge to State Route 148 as the “Officer Frank Miller Jr. Memorial Ramp.”

It was so touching to watch Uncle Frank and Aunt Gwen removed the drape from the sign that will forever memorialize Frankie.

Even Farkle, the McKeesport Police K9 Officer, donated and named in memory of Frankie was in attendance with his partner, Officer Nick Matthews.  It was so heartwarming to meet them and experience their love and dedication to our Frankie.

I was so proud of how beautiful Aunt Gwen looked and how eloquently she spoke to the crowd of family, friends, police officers, and community members thanking them for this recognition of their beloved son.  I can’t even imagine how difficult it is, even many years later, to carry on after losing a child – especially at such a young age and in such a tragic way.

Frankie – you were an officer and a gentleman – and I hope you know that I love you dearly even though we never had the chance to get to know each other.  I promise you I will love and honor your mom and dad and sisters as much as you did, for we are family.

Hugs from your,

Jodi