 |
| DFC Jason Bush |
Deputy Bush passed away on Monday, April 29, 2019, after a
courageous and hard-fought battle against cancer. He was just 34 years old.
Jason was a native of Prince George’s County and a graduate
of York College of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal
Justice. After graduation, Jason went to
work with Prince George’s County government as a civilian investigator,
investigating workplace harassment claims. Jason had built a solid reputation
in his career but always wanted to be a police officer.
Jason was hired by the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office on
Aug. 10, 2015 and then attended the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy,
Class 42 and graduated on June 3, 2016 distinguishing himself amongst his
peers. Once he graduated from the
academy he enthusiastically worked in the Patrol Division, working diligently
each day serving the public. Jason
served as a Patrol Officer from his graduation on June 3, 2016 until his death
on April 29, 2019.
Capt. David Yingling, Commander of the St. Mary’s County
Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division, said, “When I first met Jason he
distinguished himself with his kind spirit and his commitment to others. He was a peacemaker on the road and patiently
treating everyone he contacted with tremendous respect. Jason’s grace under pressure and dignity were
such an inspiration to those he served with.”
On March 9, 2019, Jason was awarded with the Sheriff’s
Office Gold Medal of Valor – the agency’s highest award – which was later
presented to him at his home by Sheriff Tim Cameron and Capt. Yingling in the
presence of Jason’s Patrol Squad.
Despite receiving a formidable cancer diagnosis, Deputy
Jason Bush showed exemplary strength in the face of pain, great dignity despite
suffering and demonstrated a continued selfless desire to contribute to the
Sheriff’s Office mission. Deputy Bush remained positive, devoting time to his
family, close friends and his Sheriff’s Office family – especially his squad.
Despite being ill while receiving treatment, Deputy Bush asked to work light
duty in the quartermasters office, putting the welfare of his colleagues and
the agency ahead of his own.
Sheriff Tim Cameron said, “This is a terribly sad time for
the men and women of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office who worked
alongside Deputy Bush and called him a colleague and a friend. However, we can
all be extraordinarily proud of Jason for the courage that he displayed in
fighting his cancer. Jason’s calm courage in the storm of cancer is an
inspiration for us all, as is his commitment, bravery and determination.”
Deputy Bush is survived by his
parents Richard and Vicki Bush of Ridge and the men and women of the St. Mary’s
County Sheriff’s Office. The Bush family requests privacy at this time.
