MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
A Division Of The
Department of Public Safety
Public Information and Education Division - PO Box 568 - Jefferson City, MO 65102
NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Capt. John J. Hotz
9102015 (573) 526-6115

September 10, 2015
EMPHASIS: Colonel J. Bret Johnson Expresses His Appreciation

A letter from Missouri State Highway Patrol Superintendent Colonel J. Bret Johnson:

As I write this, it has been a sad and tragic couple of weeks for law enforcement around our nation. In particular, for state police & highway patrol agencies in Louisiana, Michigan, and Missouri, and also for local departments in Illinois and Texas. These are certainly trying times for all who serve in our profession.

Every day, troopers, law enforcement officers, public officials, support organizations, firefighters, EMS, MoDOT, towing and recovery operators, and citizens from around our state and nation do what they do best. They serve and support someone in need. This past week, when we needed them, they served and supported the Missouri State Highway Patrol, as it was one of ours who made the ultimate sacrifice. Last Thursday evening and Friday hundreds paid their respects to one of Missouri's finest during the visitation and services of Trooper James M. Bava, badge 162. Words cannot express our agency's gratitude to all who attended these services. Your compassion, prayers, encouragement, support, and presence helped Trooper Bava's family and our agency during this difficult time. Trooper Bava's family is so appreciative of all the respect, compassion, love, and support extended from those attending James' services.

Trooper James Bava was a deeply faithful person who lived the Patrol’s core values each and every day of his life. But, even more importantly, he lived God's core values each and every day. Those who knew him are all better people because of him and Missouri is a safer place because of his service and dedication.

In the past several months, I have heard it said many times, “It's really a tough time being in law enforcement right now.” Our profession has certainly been through some difficult times recently. But, my confidence and pride in our agency and in our profession has never wavered as we carry out our duties each day in a professional and unbiased manner.


On behalf of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, I want to say thank you to the law enforcement community and to the people of Missouri for the support and compassion shown these past few weeks. All of us were both moved and encouraged by the outpouring of public support and respect that was shown to us by the hundreds of citizens who lined the roadways from the church to the cemetery to honor Trooper Bava and the profession he chose.

With sincere appreciation,

Colonel J. Bret Johnson
Missouri State Highway Patrol