© 1996 - 2001
Cliff Bemis wrote, performed and produced a CD single dedicated to CHP Officer Bruce T. Hinman, (Badge #11820) who was killed in the line of duty on October 3, 1995. I've reproduced his lyrics here, but I really recommend y'all head over to the page of Cliff's website where you can buy the CD! (Be sure to check his "In Memory Of" page, as well.)
The CD only costs $3.50 and includes the following song, sung by Cliff, plus a purely instrumental version of the music. (And the site uses secured ordering, so it's easy to order!)
The Badge of the CHP
Lyrics by Cliff Bemis
Verse
From time to time a special few are chosen as the best
To wear the star with seven points and California's crest
They pledge to sacrifice their lives, protecting one and all
Giving their best, so proud, and standing tall
From the redwood trees up north, to the desert and the shore
We turn to them for help and strength, when troubles's at our door
Their courage and their wisdom, burns as a shining light
It guides them through, like a beacon in the night
Chorus
The badge of trust, that's worn with pride
A sense of honor, and justice beats inside
They are the men and woman working faithfully
Wearing the badge, of the CHP
Verse
Answering a cry for help in the darkness of the night
Standing ground, no backing down, when called upon to fight
The gentle hands that hold a child and wipe away the tears
Those same strong hands that pledge our flag so dear
Chorus
The badge of trust, that's worn with pride
A sense of honor, truth, and justice beats inside
A star of gold upon the chest for all to see
Wearing the badge, of the CHP
And if one of them is taken for a bigger, higher call
God holds themclose in his arms never to fall
Chorus
(You have to hear it sung to get the full effect. I'm so very pleased to be able to bring it to your attention.)
And, by all means, DO check out the "CHP Family" page! (I'll let you find it once you get there...)
The badge of trust, that's worn with pride
A sense of honor, truth, and justice beats inside
They are the men and women working faithfully
Wearing the badge, of the CHP
God bless the badge, of the CHP
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The CHP Patch
You can also learn about the CHP Patch and
all its symbolism and history. That particular page is part of the excellent web-site created and maintained by a good
friend of mine - who created his web-site long before the Department launched the official CHP Web-site.
The best way to experience the entire web-site "brought to you by your friendly neighborhood CHP officer" is to start
here and then wander your way through its features.
