Recognizing Universal City Police Chief Gary Speer

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. CUELLAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career and service of Universal City Police Chief Gary Speer. Chief Speer has retired after 40 years in law enforcement and 36 years of service with the Universal City Police Department.

Chief Speer is an individual who consistently displayed the utmost commitment to his community. He began his career in law enforcement in 1981 as a reserve officer for Bexar County Precinct 3. He eventually served in a few different departments before joining the Universal City Police Department as a patrolman in 1984. Over time he steadily rose through the ranks. He achieved the rank of Sergeant in 1989, Lieutenant in 1997, Assistant Chief in 2001, and soon earned the position of Chief in 2007. During this time, he was also honored with several awards including Police Officer of the Year by the Lions Club and Police Officer of the Year for the State of Texas by the American Legion.

I have worked with Chief Speer over the years and witnessed first- hand the essential work he has done to keep his community safe. He cared deeply about the people he served and consistently showed what it means to put the well-being of others first. The dedication that he has shown to us all should be a constant reminder of how we should be in our daily lives. This devotion to others is also consistent with the history of his family. Chief Speer's Grandfather, father, and brother all served their communities as members of law enforcement.

In addition to the hard work and dedication he showed as a member of the law enforcement community, he is also an active member of his community. He is a member of Shriners International, the San Antonio Livestock Exposition and its Scramble Committee, the Texas Police Association, and the Texas Police Chiefs Association. But most importantly, he is a devoted father and grandfather.

As we move forward, let us take the time to appreciate the service of heroes like Chief Speer and all the individuals who risk their lives each day to keep us safe. However, in the words of President John F. Kennedy, ``As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.''

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the career and service of Chief Speer

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source