good story.

These are the stories that need to be covered. Not pets abandoned to the storm by selfish owners.

Give me the stories of how the residents are making it through each day and night and building their towns back.

I don't need another story about how the Feds should have done this or how LA should have done that. Fact is, everyone should have left and they didn't, so we have to clean up the dead. Next, learn from the mistakes and do better next time. Have a plan AND STICK TO IT.

Thanks again for this story. I appreciate the frank and honest way it was told. Refreshing.

Yes, you will stay and rebuilt because it is home - there are a lot of people out there who cannot fathom this.

God Bless You and Good Luck in rebuilding the Gulf Coast and your lives.

This man is what makes this country great; deep down almost every American is color blind it's just sometimes we don't know it until it exhibits itself

My hat is off to him. May God bless him and his family.

Mr. Taylor - I don't know Bay St. Louis, but I know small towns. And small towns need people like you to rebuild them. You love your son enough to see that he has a proper education, so love your town enough to see that it is rebuilt. You carry more than a badge - you carry the history, the memories, the hopes and the dreams of Bay St. Louis. Don't let them be destroyed by Mother Nature. I don't know you, but yet I do. You are the man I would turn to in times of trouble if I were in your town. You're in my thoughts, you're in my prayers, because you are the heart and soul of small town America. God bless you.

I grew up in the Southern Alabama (The Eastern Shore)& I could see every imaging you were describing in your story. There really was no need for a street sign, you always remembered the "landmarks".

My heart felt for this man and of couse many others--I hope you keep tabs on him and he has his menories back.

On the eve of Wilma making an appearance in Florida (which is where I am) I say this. The people who stayed behind in New Orleans didn't have the means to get out otherwise they would have; (ii) We all need to recognize there but for the grace of God go I and stop rolling around in pointing fingers at the folks affected here and their current plight and HELP THEM recover; and (iii) the animals are innocent victims too and deserve our compassion and support. How did we go from being such a caring country of "Kinder Gentler" to "the hell with everyone else, let them deal with their own problems I have my own"... It's a sad time in our country. No accountability and no responsibility. The buck truly starts with Bush (is he back from vacay yet?)

This is a heart warming story. Stay strong and God will be with you every step of the journey. This country is praying for everyone who has been devastated by these hurricanes. God Bless everyone whose life has been wrecked.

Wow.. we all take so much for granted living in the Northwest where we have such mild weather. Occasional earthquakes and small burst of vulcanic activity from our two mountains... but the strength these people show, teaches us all that we really have much to be thankful for. My heart goes out to all those effected by these storms! I wish I could help them all!

well its sounds like your doing a good job for your community so keep it up and god bless you and your family.

A very compelling and beautifully-written story. My prayers go out to Mr. Taylor for the strength and the resilience his family will need as they persevere.

No Matter what you go thru Jesus Christ will always make a Way for you the Bible calls it a "Way of Escape". Know that you can begin again, and this time things will be better than before. PS: 20 Lelia

Dear Officer Taylor, You are the epitome of what an
unsung hero is all about. May the good Lord continue to watch over you and your wonderful wife and the parents and grandparents who inculcated in you all that you are!
Hang in there! Wish you all the best.

I can't imagine losing everything, but my memories. God Bless you as you help your town to heal.
Debi Ingram, Lacey, WA

I admire your true American Spirit and determination.
You set a great example for us all. Thank you.

What an awsome story, tyhank you for bringing this to us. Officer Taylow, you are truly a hero. May you have your family all together again soon, and may your son make a good year with good friends at his school. The future will bring many good things as people like you inspire goodness.

Peace be upon you and your family.

Dear Mr. Taylor, your story is the most heart warming and encouraging one I have heard from down there in the disaster area. God bless you and all of yours. Take the strength of all those who have written to support you and add it to yours. Wonderful things are ahead.

Thank you Officer Taylor and God Bless you and all the others that have endured this great loss, they say the good Lord does not gives us more than we can handle but some times we question his reasoning.
But your memories will sustain you and help you to rebuild the community you so loved as a child ....things and posessions might be destoryed but they Can Not take away the memories
Hugs

I am a resident of Mobile, Al, and have a brother-in-law who is in the police academy for the waveland police department. I hope he can take inspiration from Officer Taylor's story and be an example for his community like this gentleman has. Best wishes for you Officer Taylor-you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Officer Taylor--God bless you, your family, the citizens of Bay St. Louis, and others that were affected by Katrina. Thank you for letting us into your thoughts and feelings because this has been one of only a few pieces written on Katrina that actually matter: after all the finger-pointing and the price-tag of rebuilding, people are all that matter.

I think the second person narration is a little cheesy, sorry.

Wonderful, engaging story about a good man facing tragedy with good sense, heart, and dignity. The world would be a better place with more people like Officer Ernest Taylor. God bless him and his.
Stories like this are what I like to read best in the news.

Out of overwhelming tragedy Americans always step forward. This man epitomizes the greatness of the American sprit.

From one small town cop to another, hang in there. You are the fabric of our nation and I don't think America will forget you...Be safe!
DSN245

What a truly beautiful, heart-wrenching story. Officer Taylor, my prayers, love, and every ounce of strength go out to you, your family, and all those who's lives have been shattered by these seemingly enless catastrophys. All I can offer you, Mr. Taylor, is every ounce of spiritual strength that I do have. Perhaps this verse from Bob Dylan's "Forever Young" says it best:

May God bless and keep you always,
May your wishes all come true,
May you always do for others
And let others do for you.
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung,
May you stay forever young

Thank you so much for your touching story. The world needs to see that there are strong, faithful, determined, family men like yourself that want to rebuild your town and restore your hopes and dreams. We heard so much about about the poverty, crime and e broken homes, thank you for enlightening the world. keep the greatness of the

May God be with you and your family and bless you as you follow Him....He will be with you...always...

I sincerely regret the losses which you,your family,and your nighbors have suffered.I also envy you;in that you have a family to love,friends and neighbors to worrie and care about and some place to call home.All the best my fellow human being.

I've lived in Michigan all of my life, though born in Georgia. I cannot imagine living through what you and the other residents have truly LIVED through. My heart goes out to you, your family and all the other people who have suffered through this tragedy.

I am the 8th child in a family of 13 children. My family moved to New Orleans, La. when I was 14. I married there, and raised a fine daughter.
Growing up, I couldn't wait for Friday afternoons, where we loaded up in the family wagon, and made a stop at K&B drugstore for floats, then McKenzie's for a "turtle" (a small drop of shortbread cookie topped with the best chocolate ever, and a big pecan on top), before continuing on eastward, for a little over a half hour on Hwy. 90, passing the Swamp Tours, and alligator farms. (We always squealed in delight upon seeing the signs declaring the gator farm...1000 feet ahead), or riding over the "Rigolets" drawbridge in Lake Katherine, with nothing but water and swamp, as far as the eye could see!
We escaped the hustle and bustle of the "city life", for a delightful weekend of crabbing, fishing, or just lazily sunning in the sleepy, laid back atmosphere of "Old Towne". Mom would squeeze as much time in as she could, and make her rounds to the plethoria of antique shoppes, while we, the children made a mad dash for a snoball stand, or if we had the money, we were all treated to "TRAPANI'S", for an oyster and shrimp po-boy, (dressed); dressed...meaning "with lettuce, creole tomatoe, mayo, and onions", in this adorable little "OLDE" towne. No one can begin to apprecaite these little landmarks that meant so much to us, unless they have actually got the privy to take it in firsthand!
We always returned to New Orleans with a sense of renewal and revitalization, and usually with a big icechest full of live blue crabs caught with a mere string and a chicken neck or back...and looking forward to Mama's mouth watering deviled crabs that she would make for us!
With the exception of a handful of siblings, we all eventually moved on to other places, but always returned to our beloved Bay St Louis, every chance we could, and that was in my case at least 4 or 5 times a year! Finally, I gave in to my "pining for the Bay" and found myself making BSL - Waveland my permanant home, in 1998.
On Sept. 29th, my world came crashing in, as Hurricane Katrina reduced my home on Beach Blvd. and First St. to a mere pile of rubble.
Yes, I escaped with only my life and my memories, but I regarded this magnificent place more than a "home". It was alive with the grande water oaks, and bald cypress trees, and the splendid palm trees...and all of the living plants...huge elephant ears. Nature that was alive prior to that fateful day!
Now...everything that once lived here, was killed that day, with the exception of a few of the older water oaks that stood their ground in the face of this brutal attack!
On Sept. 4th, I made my way back to my once lovely, quaint little fishing village, only to find my home reduced to a pile of bricks! I ventured down to Coleman Avenue...where Peterson's Grocery Store once stood...only to find nothing whatsoever there except sheer devastation. Not one thing was left intact. It was as if a huge hand had come down and swept everything away. I am now living in Alabama, and I am forever changed...and yes, I have my memories...but the landmarks are all gone now....traces of a childhood, GONE...Sure, I have photographs, but will Bay St. Louis ever be the same? I say no...it will not ever be "THE SAME", for everything that I grew up seeing is gone forever. The Landmarks! Just like a peice of my childhood, how I shall miss it!

V. Miranda

I am very sympathetic to the plight of the police, but in all of the coverage of the aftermath of Katrina (and Rita), why isn't there more attention paid to the firefighters? Firefighters also stayed through the storm, rescued victims, and fought fire with no equipment or reliable water sources. And they have stayed as well, the communities they serve are the homes. They are in the same predicament as the police - no taxes to pay wages, replace equipment, ruined fire stations, ruined trucks.

When all other services failed to deliver, the police and firefighters were the real heros, continuing to protect people and property in spite of no communications, equipment, or home.

CORRECTION: Sorry, about the wrong date on my last entry! August 29th, 2005. I get a little emotional still! Days have began running into nights, and nights into weeks...then months, and all time seems to run together these days, and at the same time...time just stands still.
Missing Home!

I LIKED the 2nd person. It puts YOU the READER in the story. I live a sheltered life here in Maine; the only thing we get are a few blizzards every year (though there have been rumors that Wilma could make it this far north...and be cold enough to snow. Can you imagine that story?????) Its sooooo easy for me to think "didn't anyone learn their lessons the first time? Why rebuild?" but again, that's the easy thing to say. Rebuilding a life, no matter where it settles, isn't an easy task, particularly if its the only place you've ever known. God bless all of Bay St. Louis!

Greetings Officer Taylor,

At a time in our country when we sometimes become indifferential to being American, certainly a little skeptical... it is people such as Officer Taylor that gives us that silver lining in a cloud of natural disasters, both local and abroad. May God keep you in his sights as your family and your community begin to rebuild and repopulate. Rest assured America the American dream is alive and it exisits in the very personal and upfront story of Officer Taylor as he survives and endures the ravages of Hurricane Katrina. May God Bless the United States and watch over all who beliefith in her principles and way of life!

Gosh, what a heartfelt and refreshing story. Mr. Taylor will succeed! Happiness and peacefulness will return to his life. He is a realist, knowing that it will never be what it was. But, Bay St. Louis will reinvent itself, because of folks like him. Good Luck.

Up here we call it "Minnesota Nice". There are good people in every town that often don't have their stories told. If we take the time to look past the headlines, there are even stories of survival and renewal in places like New Orleans, or Bosnia, or even now in places we talk about in terms of struggle and war, sometimes desperation, like Iraq.

Thank you for an excellent article.

Thank you

Dear Ernest and Lotus Taylor, Thank you for being brave and true to the life that you have carved out in this country. We do have choices, and you have made a few, without playing the victim. By staying in touch with what you have left to work with, you are setting an example, for all of us to build on all the good experiences that we have had so far. I guess it happens in this life, for each and every one of us, much more often than we ever knew. We hear about each other's experiences more often than we did in the past, now that we have computers as well as television and books and everyday personal contact. You must have a feeling of being connected, with us and yourselves, and the world, and I am glad. I left my hometown in rural Maine when I was twenty. After watching my three children grow into wonderfully productive, happy 'city kids' I came home to my little place. Forty years gone, but not forty years wasted, really. I was lonesome that whole time for all the things that were just memories. When I returned five years ago, I found quite a lot of old things left, not the least of which were the sunsets and the sunrise. Now that I am wiser and more aware of what might be around the corner, I have discovered new places to visit, like the kite and puzzle store that is in an old man's garage, thirty miles into the woods from here. I found a few old friends and many new ones. These new relationships and an almost-new life that is based upon the old is a surprising thing, and I cherish it so much that my grown children are baffled, but only because my life is so different from theirs. The grandchildren are not baffled. I am Granny Deb, and I live a different and interesting life from theirs. I know you'll find old and new joys, too. Debbie Caldwell from Farmingdale, Maine.

A heartbreaking story of how a storm can take years, generations, of progress and wipe it out. I believe this is a lesson that material things may come and go but the human tenacity is strong. I believe good will prevail.

My Hat is off to officer Ernest Taylor for his committment to his community , and further the strength example he has shown.Great story!!!!!

Kind Regards

Tom Bowlware

Great story, we need more human interest stories like this so that we can put a face on the human tragedy of Katrina.

Bay St. Louis/Waveland are great towns because of people like Mr. Taylor. There are many that live there that feel exactly the same way. I think it is very important to hear stories like his and it is also very IMPORTANT to hear about the animals that have also suffered a great deal. The Friends of the Animal Shelter in Hancock County had done a tremendous job changing things for the better, it had made a big impact on humane conditions for neglected and abused animals. Concern for humans and animals go hand in hand. Bay St. Louis, Waveland all of the Miss. Gulf Coast has shown that. This is a wonderful place to live and I look forward to happier days which will be coming.

This was a great and very moving story. I have lived in the Northeast my whole entire life. We do get some very rain storms and of course blizzards, but nothing what you and all the other citzens experienced during Katrina. It was nice hearing a personal story from someone. You can't replace human lifes but you can replace personal items. I am sure the rebuilding process is going to take a lot time and effect from volunteers and skilled labors. It will be an adjustment for everyone. Keep up the good work in your community. Everyone in your community needs your help and support. Please keep everyone updated how the recovery and rebuilding process to moving along.

Terrific story it is the type of braveness we should see on Headline news so that no one not anyone will ever forget. My heart goes out to you and your wife, but continue to be strong and you will be rewarded for all your strenth and being such a brave, loving individual. I will continue to keep you and yours in my thoughts and prayers, as well as all of those who suffered such tragedy by Katrina. God Bless You from the Menominee Indian Reservation in Wi Mary from Keshena,Wi

Your story and the ones like your's are what makes America the Greatest country in all of the world to live in.Thanks for being a beacon of hope for everyone who was touched by this most unforunate event.

I am from North Mississippi and have lived here all of my 39 years. I have been to the Mississippi Gulf Coast several times, I feel a great lost. Ernest you and your family and the whole Gulf Coast have been through a lot but, Don't give up on God, out of this, he will pull you closer and pull you up. Ernest is a Real Man, A Real Husband, A Real Father, A Real American and most of all A Real Christian

My husband has been working relief in Biloxi for two months and I have heard from other workers there who are also working in Bay St. Louis, it was devastated. This was a beautifully written article and I don't see how even the most callous person cannot help but have his heart go out to Officer Taylor, his family and his town. I went to Biloxi last weekend and my entire plane was full of groups of five, ten volunteers each to a group of church volunteers from all over the nation going to help out for a few days, a week, whatever they were able to give. You hear so much about New Orleans, but I have seen the heart and soul of the people of Mississippi and I challenge each one of you who read this, go to your church or civic group, adopt a small town in Mississippi (Islamorada, FL did it with Ocean Springs, MS) and take a little of your vacation time, help your brother. We can help our brother and I guarantee you will sleep better at night.

Mr. Taylor, I was touched by your story. I, too am from a small town-(we just installed our first street light). There are not words for people like you. You are a hero among heroes. If all the people in the world were like you, we would have a perfect world. The world has changed over the years, some for the good, some for the bad. But, it is very refreshing to read about a cop, citizen, father, husband like you. It seems there are not many left. I applaud you for the pride you take in your job, your church and your family. May God bless you and your family!

Officer Taylor, if you lose your job in a small town, our very large town of Houston, Texas will welcome you with open arms. Your memories are something you will always have even if the physical proof of them has been destroyed. One of my favorite sayings is; "memories are photographs you take with your heart" so you won't forget. Good luck to you and all your suffering neighbors.

My husband has been working relief in Biloxi for two months and I have heard from other workers there who are also working in Bay St. Louis, it was devastated. This was a beautifully written article and I don't see how even the most callous person cannot help but have his heart go out to Officer Taylor, his family and his town. I went to Biloxi last weekend and my entire plane was full of groups of five, ten volunteers each to a group of church volunteers from all over the nation going to help out for a few days, a week, whatever they were able to give. You hear so much about New Orleans, but I have seen the heart and soul of the people of Mississippi and I challenge each one of you who read this, go to your church or civic group, adopt a small town in Mississippi (Islamorada, FL did it with Ocean Springs, MS) and take a little of your vacation time, help your brother. We can help our brother and I guarantee you will sleep better at night.

I was very impressed with this story...thank you for choosing to talk about the little people of America and not the politicians and who did what wrong....it's the little people who make the whole of America....Officer Taylor...I pray the Lord continues to be your pillar of strength and I pray He continues to hold your family and so many others close to His side.....God Bless you all.

My hats off to this guy....he's the picture perfect american. May God bless him and so many others who lost their lives due to Katrina. Keep up the great work.

There are so many stories like this untold or never heard. It's good to hear a first-hand experience to relate more to what these people are going through.

It is men of your character, that makes this country what it is. I pray for you and the others who have suffered so much, and I pray you future becomes brighter

Thank you, Thank you. This is what the country needs to see. Not politicians and their messes. I want to see what is really going on. Victims of Katrina, and let's not forget Rita, have such an enormous task ahead. Even though I cried thru this story (I have relatives in LA trying to clean up as well), I truly loved that the truth, the courage and tenacity of our fellow Americans came out - shining thru like the light I know God will shine on them now. God speed and God bless and thank you for this glimpse into your 24/7 reality.

May God watch over you and your family. It know it would be hard to let your youngest son go to another state but at least you care enough to let him stay where he is. It is true though. God will never give you too much to handle if you truely believe in Him. Never give up on Him.
One thing I have to say. To all those who blame our President for all that happen. From the Hurricane to those people who was shooting at the rescuers to whatever. It reminds me of the story in the bible when some people brought a women ,who was caught in an act that she was not to suppose be doing, and presented her to Jesus to see what He would do to her. But as Jesus bent down on the ground to write something in the dirt ( some say it was their sins that belong to them)those people who accuse her left one by one until no one was left. So before we blame our President we should look at ourselves. And by the way Jenn from Florida how many times have you taken a vacation this year.

Officer Taylor, I live right down the road from you. I haven't been able to come back to BSL to see for myself, but the photos I've seen are heartbreaking. So many things your city provided for me. I often enjoyed a lot of the stores on front beach. Reading your story brought tears down my face. I'm so sorry for what you, and your citizens lost. I truely hope that the future doesn't remain uncertain and things begin to come back together, and stronger than before. I am so thankful for you taking the time to tell your story. Because there are still so many people in this country who do not grasp what has happened yet. Reading what you've said really touches close to home for a lot of people who haven't experienced this tragady first hand as we have. You tell everyone on in your department that I said HANG IN THERE! THIS COMMUNITY IS BEHIND YOU ALL THE WAY MAN!

I LOVED this story. So inspirational. Please keep giving us more stories like this.

every story should be heard, each one is special... specially about the abandon'd pets!! those are the ones still suffering with no food and water! not nice what u said dwight!
karenkrs99@yahoo.com

First of all I would like to thank MSNBC for the coverage given to Hancock County, MS. Officer Taylor is an unsung hero he is also my big brother and I would like to let America know that he has always been my protector and hero. I too lived in Bay St. Louis, with my husband and our five sons and that fateful day in August has forever changed our lives. A few weeks ago our home was torn down and even though I knew this would happen when that day finally came I must say it felt as if Katrina was happening all over again. It is true that our small town will never be the the same, but we as a community must purpose it in our hearts to make it a better place. Once again I want to say THANK YOU!!!!!!

I live in Leesville, La and I am very upset with what happened with Hurricane Katrina. But I want to know is where is the coverage of Rita. There has been no coverage compared to Katrina. I understand that New Orleans was a big place but Rita hit so pretty big places (not as big as N. O.) but we were still hit.

Ok, now I am in tears...of hope. The comments along with the story..."...and crown thy good with brotherhood; from sea to shining sea." That's what comes to mind when I read all of this. It is what I sing at church on the 4th of July every year.

My family essentially scattered after Andrew (1991) and when I went home, my sister stopped right in front of the house we used to live in and I had no idea we were even in the neighborhood...the landmarks were all gone. It seems Andrew took my childhood memories.

My prayers are with everyone.

Great article!! Love the way it was written!! Helps those of us who are dealing with this devastation see some good in the world!

I know this man to live just what he said in his story. He stands for the highest principles of God & man. Bay St. Louis will always have my heart. Thanks Officer Taylor for the memories! Keep your chin up.

What a wonderful moving story. It reminds me of a hispanic saying "Mes raices estan aqui" ... "My roots are buried here". Never give up on what you believe in. Best of luck to Mr. Taylor, his family and the residents of that town.

Officer Taylor is as wonderful as this story tells! He is our middle school and high school resource officer. He is a fantastic influence on our students and we depend on him! I am so glad MSNBC shared his story!

Recently my friend made a comment stating, "I'm getting tired of hearing all of this Katrina disaster stuff." I was shocked! The only response I could think of was "try telling that to one of the survivors." We need to keep hearing these things. Thank you.

Officer Taylor you are a shinning example of why I live in Bay St. Louis. I bought my home a few years ago. I live just off Old Spanish Trail on Pecan Park. My house was also spared but two brothers homes, in Waveland, were not. I'm working in Texas presently but when I retire and join my wife and daughter in Bay St. louis I look forward to meeting you.

Mr Taylor, I just read your story about Bay St. Louis. My husband and I and our 2 daughters were vacationing in Biloxi/Gulfport in August 2004. And drove through New Orleans on our way back home to Northwest Arkansas. From all the news coverage and newspaper articles about Katrina. It's so sad and heart breaking. And my heart goes out to everyone effected by this hurricane.I have my vacation pictures and memories of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Vacation. We enjoyed the few days we were able to spend in your region. My family and I were saddened by all the destruction caused by Katrina. It was hard to believe we were there just one year ago and now the entire Mississippi Gulf Coast is gone. Some how I feel I am being punished by God for some unknown reason. First Katrina, then Rita. We were in Galveston, Texas 2 years ago. Went to South Padre Island, Texas this year on vacation just after Emily brushed nearby. Then we recently talked about a christmas cruise to Cozumel instead of buying gifts for our daughters this Christmas. But Wilma has ruined those plans. This would have been our first cruise and trip to Mexico. Mr. Taylor, we are not a wealthy family. Just everyday hard working people trying to make a living in this world. Although I did grow up a poor girl. But treasure every moment of my childhood. My parents did the best they could for me and my siblings. I want you know that my heart and my families hearts goes out to you and your family and everyone else that was affected by Katrina. I wish I could help you and every other single person affected by this hurricane. There is one image that will always stick in my mind. A women holding a baby in New Orleans. The baby was so hot and looked like he was dying from lack of food and water. He was so limp and barely alert. I wanted to drive the 12 hours to New Orleans, to rescue this baby and his mother. Mr. Taylor, May God Bless You and your family. I wish you all the luck in rebuilding your town. Just remember you have memories of the past. And you will make more memories of the future. Just enjoy life, it's to short to waste on dwelling on the past. I wish you the best of luck in the future. God Bless!

Officer Taylor, you sir will rise again. It takes good people such as yourself and hard work. Lots of determination and the will to survive but you will make it. I too am a small town cop in Florida...right where Hurricane Charlie did its thing last year. Now a little more than a year later we are on the right track. Your level of dedication is admirable sir, your load of work great but good people like you sir shall rise up and thrive. Best of luck to you and yours.

It is incredible, with all the sophisticated video,hours spent watching live, onsite coverage of this story, this is the first time I have felt the beating of it's heart. Thank you.

I've only known Officer Taylor for 4 years, but America needs to know that he is exactly as he comes across in this article! He is one of the most dedicated and compassionate and "common-sensible" of all the wonderful people I've come to know in this excellent little school system since I joined their support staff when my husband retired and returned to his hometown. There is a true feeling of community and support here that I hope still exists in small towns across our country, but I fear may be fast disappearing. The street on which 4 generations of my husband's family once lived is now nothing but sand and slabs. Friends and sweet handicapped students I knew were trapped somehow and perished in the flood. But there are people everywhere along the Coast cleaning and straightening up and starting to think of rebuilding. Our school personnel are pulling together despite many difficulties, including teachers living in FEMA campers, to re-open on Monday. Our children will ride busses to school through a totally changed landscape, with many pictures out the windows which fortunately few children in America will ever have to view. One of the most unforgettable and hopeful sights for me, however, is seeing 6'3" Ernest Taylor standing in the nearly restored cafeteria today next to our determined and committed staff, principal and assistant principal, all gearing up for a "new" school year.

I grew up on the first block of Washington Street and also enjoyed the snowcones under the great oak across from the "The Star" movie theater. I was born in 1947, 6 months before the great '47 huricane that wiped out the bay bridges and caused the highway to be moved, destroying my parents tourist court. At age 9 we moved to Washington Street to live next to my grandparents. My mom, grandparents and great grandmother rode out Camile (1969) in that house. That great oak lived through 1947 and Camile, but was washed away by Katrina... along with the 5 houses my relatives onced owned in that block. I loved that great oak. I'm glad it lives on in the memories of Officer Taylor and so many of our neighbors. ....but more, it lives on in our hearts.

Officer Taylor my heart goes out to you and the men and ladies on your Police Dept.I grew up in north Hancock County so can feel what you are going thru.Have faith your town will rebuild.Iave been to your town so many times and every time it felt like home to me.May God Bless You.

My heart goes out to you and your family and all that lost so much on the Gulf Coast .Thank God for
people like you Mr.Taylor .I'm sure there are other people out there that are just as admirial as you .We just haven't heard about them .God be with you and yours Mr.Taylor as you rebuild your lives and all the others out there just like you.

Officer Taylor, thank you for allowing God to shine through you. Continue to be the great example you have been for our children and grandchildren and who knows even our great-great-great grands. We appreciate your hard work and dedication. Special thanks to Lodis and children who allow you to share with us your love and dedication. God bless you all.

Great story. This is America!

ernest is a family member and i'm proud to know that he has kept the oath of being a officer of the law who cares about his family and friends, city and state to have stayed back to help others, make a differnce in what is meant to show comfort and love to so many. I want ernest to know that my entire family in Houston, Tx is proud of him and what he is doing to help others--love ernest

As a Bay St. Louis resident who lost everything and is now living in Mobile, AL, it is nice to see this site and the stories of people like Officer Taylor. He coached my son's basketball team a few years ago and the little things like that are what we sorely miss about our wonderful town. I pray that one day it will be as close to normal as possible. As much as we are trying to settle here for a while, no place will ever be Bay St. Louis or have its charm and appeal for us. There are a lot of people in that town like Officer Taylor and Richard Hannah who are giving so much.

It is the strength of individuals like Officer Taylor, not the government, who will see us through a long recovery.

God Bless Officer Taylor and his family.

Officer Taylor, Thank you so much for telling your story. I remember the snow cones, and the Star theater and your story brought back so many wonderful memories. I also remember that even in the 1970's there was always that sense of separation. I'm really sorry that I never got to know you. I'm so proud and grateful, however that you are staying in the Bay. Because of people like you, there is hope. Thank you and I will pray that God will continue to bless the work of your hands and your family.

Officer Taylor, last week my daughter and I went to BSL for 5 days to help Father Tracey and the great people associated with Our Lady of the Gulf Church. My vision of the world was forever changed. No matter what you read, see or hear about this beautiful area, words cannot express what it looks like now. You must see to understand. Upon entering BSL off of rte. 10, the devastation starts. My mind was saying "why would these people stay? How can they possibly rebuild" By the time I left BSL, I was saying, "they must rebuild, this place is soooo worth it". To all those we met, you have changed our lives, to Office Taylor, God Bless you and your family. To those who are staying and will rebuild their town, "we love you".. Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year...

Ernest and Lotus Taylor,

I grew up in the Bay-Waveland until I graduated in 84 from Bay High. I went to school with Frank Neil's Son, Tony. I went to Waveland two days after the storm to find my mother and was fortunate to find her. Two of my three sisters also lived in Waveland. All lost their homes also. As for me growing up there, I feel that the only thing left is the memories mentioned in your story. The old Star theater did make the best sno-balls on the coast and I remember that tree one Washington Street. I sincerely hope that Waveland and Bay St Louis rebuilds to what it was, and most importantly, what it can be again. My prayers are with you.

Kerry Bludnick
Registered Nurse and former Security Supervisor at Casino Magic from 93-95.

It is clear that these communities need more help,
despite the work of local,state, and federal government, and volunteers.

Here's an idea: expand the volunteer network to include college kids. In a few weeks, they'll be
on Spring Break. They could make a real difference
helping people put their lives back together.

Mr. Taylor thank you for sharing you life story with us. I'am from Macon Ga, as a child it was a small place but it has grown alot and one day your Bay St. Louis will grow again. God Bless all of you that made it through the storm. The memories of you small town will forever be ingrained in your hearts.I'am currently in Kuwait.

Earnest,
I graduated from BSL high in 1970. My brother was a teacher at the middle school in Waveland and I lived with him for the last half of my senior year. The school that I was attending in Natchez was in the midst of race riots so I moved to Waveland in order to finish high school. I was so amazed at how well all the kids, black and white, got along with each other...nothing like the problems we were having back home in Natchez. I made so many new friends and came to love your community and the people who lived there. Ya'll have been and will continue to be in my prayers. Please, don't lose your faith, your hope or your love. Everything will work out according to God's plan and in His time.

God bless each and everyone of you

Hi Ernest & Family,
My name is Robin and I grew up in Lake Charles,La. I now reside in California. Let me say "theres NOTHING like the SPIRIT of the SOUTH"! You are BLESSED to have THE LOVE OF GOD in you,as well as such PRECIOUS memories!As I sit here in tears again ,I need you to know "When we're weak GOD is our STRENGTH! He is FAITHFUL and CANNOT deny HIMSELF so continue to "Look to the hills from whence cometh thy help" and for the rest of us,Let us WATCH & PRAY as No Man knows the day or hour!

Officer Taylor,
Your story really brought me home. I too grew up in BSL and have great memories of riding my bike on Beach Blvd, snowballs at BIG E, and fishing off the Washingon St pier, and avoiding hitting Melvin on his poorly lit tricycle after dark (I am sure you remember him). Ever since I left BSL in 1993 after graduating from SSC, I dreamed of coming back with my family and practicing medicine in the town I love. The week after the storm hit I was scheduled to interview for a job that would have allowed me to carry out that dream. My young son would have also experienced the memories that connect all of us. Unfortunately, due to this horrific event I am not able to come home yet. I am thankful for people like you and other Bay residents that refuse to give up and are determined to rebuild the Bay. God Bless you and keep your spirits high. Things will improve and it will be a beautiful place again. I hope I can one day join all of you in this unique community.

I live on the east coast almost on the water in a tiny town called Sneads Ferry. We are inland from Topsail Beach, one of the areas hit so hard by Fran and Bertha a few years ago. Have faith, we have learned from experience that while some things are never the same many things come back better and stronger than ever! And those who want to blame government on any level for the destructive power of the storm just haven't lived thru a hurricane. The best anyone can do is to pick up the pieces afterwards! There is just no planning that could alter the events much...that is wishful thinking on the part of those who don't understand or respect the awsome power of nature.

Wonder what is going on with him now?

Yes this is th type of story we need to read more and hear about. People like Ernest who help themselfs and others, they don't complain and blame the state and federal government for everything. I was so sick and tired of seeing all the pictures from New Orleans of people just blaming other for them still being there. If the mayor on N.O. would of just showed the leadership of small town officers like Mr. Taylor alot of lives would of been saved in N.O.

I lived in Biloxi in the early 80's and there was alot of poverty there but the people were hard workers and helped each other. Even then it was often said that N.O. was the most corrupt city in the most corrupt state in the country, and you saw the results of that leadership with Katrina.

The people of southern MS will rise above this and be back as proud as ever.

Its People like you who made USA what it is today. People like you setted this great land. I salute you and God Bless You.

I was in Bay St.Louis and Waveland in June on a Eight Days of Hope mission project. We worked on a home for Ernest. He was an inspiration and it was blessing to get to know him. His strength and will were evident as I talked to him.

may God continue to bless him and all the people of that area as they continue to rebuild there towns and there lives.

From a former SRO and Judge to one who the word "heroic" barely describes(speaking of Officer Taylor), I commend you because SRO's many times fail to get the recognition they truly deserve. Unfortunately, your recognition comes during the most challenging time in your life and that I can only imagine. I remember when we were called out to respond to Hurricane Hugo here in SC and residents in our small town were being housed in the local high school until the storm was over. Our team of SRO's were fortunate enough to have our families placed in the armory of the school as we patrolled both the school as well as parts of the town. I only bring this up to say "thank you" Officer Taylor on behalf of myself and thousands of other SRO's who know what it feels like to truly care about your community and see your job as not only a career but also a "calling". I don't know where you are right now or if this message will ever be read by you Officer Taylor but I do know and decree this for you and your family "The Best is Yet to Come for Your Faithfulness!"

Hello everyone,

I would to thank each of you for your prayers and words of encouragement. Each has provided such an inspiration to me and my family. Tomorrow, Aug. 29th will be a year ago when Hurricane Katrina roared ashore. I reflect back on the devastation, but I more importantly thank God for His goodness and mercy for sparing our lives. Material items can be replaced. We can rebuild, but you can not replace life. Bay St. Louis is able to rebuild because of the many kind and wonderful volunteers that have come to help. God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love
you have shown Him as you have helped His people and
continue to help them. ~ Hebrews 6:10
Things are slow but they are also sure. Our son has returned to Bay St. Louis and is attending the local high school. Again thank you and never cease to pray. God bless you!