Oregon Department Of Corrections – Eastern Oregon Correctional Institute

Correctional Officer Buddy Ray Herron

End Of Watch: 11-28-11

Correctional Officer Buddy Ray Herron, 42, was stabbed to death when he stopped to assist a vehicle crash victim while en route to begin his shift at the EOCI. A call came into dispatch at 2317 hrs. from Ofc. Herron who stated he had been stabbed and his truck was stolen. When the Pendleton Police arrived, they found the victim to be a uniformed Correctional Officer. Our Warrior Brother was transported to the hospital but his injuries proved to be fatal. Ofc. Buddy Ray Herron was pronounced just before midnight.

Within two hours, Police located the stolen vehicle and suspect. The 22 year old was taken into custody. A vehicle at the assault scene came back as stolen. This is an ongoing investigation. We do know that Ofc. Herron’s uniform was not visible at the time of the assault (he may have been wearing an outer garment covering), though he very well could have stated he was a Police Officer. Multiple agencies are assisting with this investigation.

Born with a soul that has courage to wear the badge, Ofc. Herron has been Saving, Serving and Protecting the People from behind the walls for 4 years. Standing as our last line of defense, Buddy Ray valiantly held the wolves at bay, putting his life on the line every day to ensure the People were kept protected from the evil-doers. Ofc. Herron was very well-liked by his peers. His soul of a Warrior coupled with his heart of gold, this Hero gave his all in every way. He was a tough man while walking the halls and could always be counted on to back his fellow Officers up but Ofc. Herron also had a well-balanced demeanor when dealing with the inmates and listening to their concerns. A great role model for tolerance. But it was his love of The Brotherhood that really made him stand out. A great friend to his Brothers and Sisters, he made sure each always knew when one needed assistance. Whether it be simply for encouragement or on a more personal matter, Buddy Ray pulled everyone together in unity. With this man on your side, you could get through even the toughest of times. All this came second only to his love for his family. Balancing work and play, Buddy Ray enjoyed spending quality time with his family and closest friends. A man who has touched the lives of so many will be missed terribly … never to be forgotten.

Buddy Ray leaves behind his beloved bride Kimberly and four children. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Herron family, the Men and Women of the Oregon Department Of Corrections and all surrounding agencies who have stepped up to assist.

Our Brother, you stopped to do what you were born to do, ensuring the safety of the People. As you now look down from the Heavens, may you be standing with your head held high knowing you Lived Your Life As Only A Hero Could. We ask that you continue your vigilant watch over us all as we carry on the watch … In Our Brother’s Honor. We thank you for your service and for your sacrifice. We thank you for your life. Job Well Done Sir.

Rest In Peace Correctional Officer Buddy Ray Herron … We have the watch from here. SALUTE!

~written by Nessie~

EOCI-DOC:http://www.oregon.gov/DOC/OPS/PRISON/eoci.shtml

Cop Killer (Parolee) Joshua Charles Weeks, 22, charged with murder