Hoonah Police Department, Alaska
End of Watch Saturday, August 28, 2010
Reflections for Officer Matthew Dean Tokuoka
Officer Tokuoka, i'm sorry for what happened to you and your partner that day as it was uncalled for, and it was unwarranted in every aspect. There should'nt have been a reason as to what happened, but thankfully, the person who took you and Mr. Wallace's lives that day was permanently sealed from society, meaning that he will never see the light of day again, as he was thrown underneath the jail as he should've been the first time, since it turns out you and Wallace both knew the suspect, which i think was already a red flag in itself since the suspect didn't learn his lesson the first time he was already in trouble with the law, as being in and out of jail didn't do it for him. As a result, the suspect had so much pent up anger inside him that he eventually got so fueled with it, that he took his anger out on law enforcement, which doesn't excuse the way he felt, as it should've never happened. However, when the initial ambush occured and Wallace was struck, you bravely went into the line of fire and rescued him, all the while you were struck in the process, which goes to show that you weren't afraid at all with what was going on, as you knew the circumstances and faced it head on, and if that doesn't describe even a small amount of the bravery you had in you, i don't know what will. To top things off, you were also a US Marine, which explains further as to why you bravely went into danger and fought back. To not only become a police officer but a Marine on top of that, it goes to show that you truly were one of the chosen ones and you were brave enough to serve your country and protect the citizens of Hoonah and Alaska at the same time. It's unfortunate that your children were forced to grow up without a father, as that scumbag excuse of a human took away a father, husband, and son, meaning that the man who took your life was nothing short of evil and was really a demon in disguise as a human. However, i'm sure that with each passing day and as the years go by, your children carry you in their hearts each day, as they progress in life knowing that you're watching over them and you're proud of them. Although your service was short and only lasted a year, i think that 1 year says alot with the impact you had on your community at the time of your passing, as i see that alot of people knew who you were, and you were well-liked by many, and even during your last moments you stayed strong till the end, which i gotta give you credit for, along with the fact you showed no fear either, as people should learn from you and take what you did and apply it to situations like those. Though i myself am not a police officer, i know that not all police officers make it home to their families, which is a shame in itself but true, especially with how society is nowadays as danger and crime rates go up, especially to those who currently serve and protect. Another thing i'd like to mention is that considering you were a soldier and officer, that meant that you knew what it meant to serve and protect as you were a sensei to those who didn't know what to do and needed guidance, as you were there to educate and be an example to those who wanted to be better and demonstrate what it meant to go out and face danger each day, and to come out on top. Although it's been nearly 15 years since your passing, i believe that your star will never fade, and it will shine the brightest in the dark skies each time a member of your family looks up for a sign that you're there in the afterlife, watching down on them and protecting them in spirit. As of now, may you rest in peace knowing that your service will never be forgotten, and that as long as your name is said and you're remebered, you aren't truly gone as you live on in the hearts and minds of others, and that your children have gotten old enough to learn about your legacy and carry it with them each day, knowing that their father would never want them to give up despite you not being there for them, as it's a shame. However, as for the man that took your life along with Sgt. Wallace's, you've been avenged in death as he's been permanently sealed away from society, as he got almost 200 years in the slammer, meaning that Alaska can sleep at night knowing that worthless pieces of trash like him are gone for good, although i personally believe it should've been different as people like him deserve whatever happens to him. Just know that one day he will face his true punishment, as the penalty for harming or killing an officer is death, as judgement day will be brought upon him once his day comes. Rest Well Mr. Tokuoka.
Morgan, a civilian supporter of the blue line
July 12, 2025
Lord Jesus, as we watch America’s Peace Officers succumb to the wicked and evil in this world, Shot and Killed in the Line-of-Duty, it becomes difficult for us to pick up and move forward. Our communities are on the brink of exploding with tension. In light of the peace officers who are no longer with us, I pray for endurance for our communities and law enforcement agencies. Carry us through this time of strife, that through our struggles, our bonds may grow even more unbreakable. In Your mighty and holy name, I pray. Amen.
Holy Scriptures on Law Enforcement’s Mission:
“For the policeman [peace officer] does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman [peace officer] is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he [the peace officer] will have you punished. He [the peace officer] is sent by God for that very purpose. Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should.” [Romans 13:3-5 TLB]
[Jesus Said,] “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” [John 15:13 ESV]
And he [Jesus] said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:43 ESV]
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]
“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]
Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, FCPO-USA
Ordained Christian Global Outreach Minister No. 36526
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
January 10, 2024
Rest in peace Officer Tokuoka.
Rabbi Lewis S. Davis
September 19, 2022
Can’t believe it’s been over ten years since you died trying to saving your brother in arms. I still remember your witty humor while servings with you as a Highlander (1st LAR, 1st Marine Division) rest easy brother.
Gysgt/Police Officer
USMC/Pomona PD (retired)
February 17, 2021
Rest in peace always knowing that your service and sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten.
Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)
August 28, 2020
Officer Tokuoka,
On today, the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the USMC. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
Semper Fi Devil Dog!
A fellow LEO; former Marine
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
August 28, 2020
I miss you pal. Semper Fi.
John Millan, Chief (RET) Hoonah PD
Hoonah PD (RET)
August 29, 2019
Rest In Peace Brother in Blue. Thank you Hero for your sacrifice and service to this country. Thoughts and prayers for your family, friends and coworkers.
Officer Mike Robinson(Ret.)
Upland Police Dept. CA
August 28, 2019
John 5:28, 29 - "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out". I pray that everyone can find peace in knowing that we will see this officer as well as many others again in Paradise soon. Until then, please accept my condolences.
A.W. Montgomery
Concerned Citizen
October 2, 2018
Rest In Peace Brother in Blue. You are honored and remembered on the 8th anniversary of your EOW.
Officer Mike Robinson (Ret.)
Upland Police Dept. CA
August 28, 2018
I got the chance to live in Hoonah for a few months. Back in 1996 it was a small fishing village.......a close knit community. I'm shocked and saddened whenever this happens but I can only imagine the pain the community suffered as a result of the loss of these 2 officers.
RIP.
Kimberley Luoto, CO
MCSO (RET)
August 29, 2016
I still remember your calm call for assist and I miss you pal. You were the truest of the brave, honorable warriors and the tip of the spear of justice that sad night; a man who truly had no comprehension of fear. You instantly and courageously charged into the gates of hell, under fire to save your best bud. I am sorry I didn't get to say good bye at the ER, but we were having to contain that creature that did this to you. I am glad I got to speak to you and that you did not die alone. I am both sorry your family had to say good bye like that, but I am also glad that they didn't miss that last chance to say good bye. No greater love Bro. RIP Marine and Semper Fi!
John Millan
Chief (RET) Hoonah AK PD
Former Marine, & RET Army Nat'l. Guard MP 1SG
Chief JA Millan (RET)
Hoonah AK PD (RET)
April 14, 2016
Matt,
Five years later, I still remember you: your final act - trying to save Tony by pulling him to safety, your sacrifice, your dedication, and your family - who tragically witnessed your death. You were a true man among men, a Marine to the very end; I wish I had the honor of meeting you. Thank you.
Rest well. You are not and will never be forgotten brother.
Alan Mitchell
UAF/CTC Law Enforcement Academy
August 30, 2015
Thinking of you and your family today as I found this site on line. My name is Dean Mathews and I am a Police Officer as well. With our names in common you remain in my thoughts as I pray for your family!
Lt. Dean Mathews
Arlington Virginia
October 18, 2014
Staff Sergeant Tokuoka is how I knew him, or just T. A great Marine and great friend that will be missed.
Semper Fi Staff Sergeant.
Corporal Adrian B Horn
United States Marine Corps Security Forces
March 29, 2014
Rest in peace Officer Tokuoka, you will not be forgotten!
Aloha
Liquor Control Investigator R.Rojas #26
Honolulu Liquor Commission/ Former Pearl Harbor Police Officer
March 27, 2014
Semper Fi buddy! I still think of your straight-faced jokes on night shift and can't help but still smile 3 years later.
Chief (RET) JA Millan
Hoonah AK PD
July 11, 2013
WOW! So amazing -- its been going over two years now -- and I still Google your name, and I stumbled across this page and it makes me proud of you my lil brother! Mom must have given you a great big hug when she received you in Heaven.
I miss you Matt -- but I know you know this. A HUI HOU.
Love, your big sis!
the Moloka'i Queen
PROUD SISTER OF OFFICER TOKUOKA
May 31, 2013
RIP brothers!. Prayers for your families.
Captain (Retired) William Flesch
Minot Police Dept. Minot, ND
April 9, 2013
God bless you.
Retired Chief John R. Graham
April 6, 2013
THANK U FOR YOUR SERVICE AND PAYING THE ULTIMATE PRICE WHILE DOING WHAT U LOVED TO DO AS WE ALL DO MAY YOU REST IN PEACE NOW WELL DONE.
chris young DPR. RET.
detroit police dept
April 5, 2013
Rest in peace, God bless your family
TFO A. Hernandez
Sunland Park Police Dept.
April 5, 2013
Thank you for your service and for helping to make America a safer place.
Deputy Brian Jones
Boulder County Sheriff's Office, CO
November 24, 2012
Hey Matt! The POS that killed you has life in a cage to look forward to and then eternity in a pool of fire and bioling brimstone. RIP buddy, I still miss you.
Chief (RET) John Millan
Hoonah AK PD (RET)
November 9, 2012
Rest in peace, brothers. Good conviction, if that's the best we can do in this life, we'll take it. Keep the animal off the streets. God bless your families & all heroes everywhere.
PO Michelle Zurita
NYPD
November 3, 2012

