Twenty years ago after my late husband Fermin “Sonny” S. Archer Jr. (top middle), my late father Norris I. de Geneste (top left), our children; Tiffany Archer, Fermin Archer III and Orlanzo Douglas surrounded Detective Stephen McDonald to take this photo the topic of conversation for our children was not only how proud they were of their father for being a New York City Police Officer but how proud they were of Detective Stephen McDonald.
The thought of him continuing his duty after being shot by a bad guy, almost losing his life and being paralyzed for the rest of his life was so inspirational to all of us, more so to our children. The pride and dignity in which their father (Sonny Archer) spoke of Detective McDonald’s perseverance to always “stand tall” which he did in his wheelchair and his commitment to being one of the “Good Guys” as they witnessed him well dressed in his continuation to wear his uniform proudly, opened our children’s young hearts and minds to the possibility of the dangers their father faced each time he went out to work. The hugs and kisses he received going forward were not just hugs and kisses anymore, they were hugs and kisses adorned with please God bring my Dad back home safely!
Thank you, Detective Stephen McDonald for your never ending commitment to your Brothers and Sisters in Blue and Thank you and your Family for your “Sacrifice”!
You will be missed and NEVER forgotten!