Dear editor:
On July 28th, 2026, I’d like to ask everyone to take a moment of silence to remember and honor Deputy Bryan P. Gross and his family. If you’ve lived here since July 28, 2011, you probably remember that day.
If not, I hope this message helps you understand the incredible bravery of someone right here in Douglas, Wyoming.
Deputy Gross gave his life in the line of duty while serving our community that day, trying to rescue a young girl from the swollen fast moving North Platte River.
His heroism deeply affected all of us, especially his wife Amy and their family.
Bryan was recognized many times for his bravery and selflessness.
In 2013, his wife Amy accepted the Congressional Badge of Bravery on his behalf—this is one of the highest awards given to law enforcement officers for their courageous actions while on duty.
His name is also forever inscribed at the Police Officer’s Memorial in Washington D.C., alongside many other officers who lost their lives protecting us.
Bryan was not only a respected Deputy but also a beloved person. We still miss him and keep him in our hearts.
Even after 15 years, it sometimes feels like yesterday.
Many of us have our own stories about the day Bryan disappeared in the river and the three days spent searching for him.
I especially remember the gathering at the park by the Richards St. Bridge, where Sgt. Justin Scott led the Search and Rescue efforts of our Converse County Seach and Rescue team along with several other Search and Rescue members from other counties across the state.
Bryan’s wife Amy and his family showed incredible strength — always supportive, never interfering, and full of hope and trust in us. Their compassion and resilience continue to inspire us.
I am forever grateful to them for their support during that difficult time.
I know I speak for everyone when I say thank you to Amy and the Gross family for standing with us and helping us through it.
I want to recognize the community members and other agencies who helped during the search for Bryan.
The support from our community and agencies from across Wyoming and the country was truly amazing, then and now.
Even in these challenging times for law enforcement, I see the ongoing support and appreciation for our officers, and it means the world to us.
In closing, I want to share that on the 10th anniversary of Bryan’s passing, July 28, 2011, the Yellow Stone Street Bridge here in Douglas was dedicated to Deputy Bryan Gross.
So, next time you cross that bridge and see his name, take a moment to remember Bryan and his family.
This special tribute was made possible thanks to the help and cooperation of Senator Brian Boner, our Governor Matt Mead, the Wyoming Department of Transportation, and Bryan’s family.
Respectfully,
Sheriff Clint Becker
