Honoring Officer Travis Wallace

Floor Speech

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Mr. BOOZMAN. Madam President, I rise today with my friend and colleague from Arkansas to honor Helena-West Helena Police Officer Travis Wallace, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty on Thursday, November 12.

Officer Wallace was trying to apprehend a suspect wanted in connection with a violent crime the previous week. Using his patrol car to block the exit of the parking lot where he spotted the suspect in the vehicle, he was fired on. Officer Wallace returned fire but was struck during the gunfight.

Officer Wallace was targeted because he was a law enforcement officer in pursuit of justice. This is a somber reminder of the dangers police officers and other members of the law enforcement community face every day. They do so willingly, not knowing the challenges they will experience when they leave the comforts of their homes and their loved ones.

Officer Wallace served with professionalism and dedication during his 10 years in law enforcement. For half his career, he worked for the Helena-West Helena Police Department, where he demonstrated his passion and commitment for helping those in need.

The Helena-West Helena police chief described Officer Wallace as an ambitious leader who was eager to help the community. Another fellow officer applauded his influence on his career and thanked him for the skills he taught his brothers in blue that have helped better protect that community.

The outpouring of support from the Helena-West Helena residents, citizens across Arkansas, and the members of the law enforcement community has given the police department strength, as members mourn the loss of this brave officer.

I join with all Arkansans in expressing our gratitude for Officer Wallace's service and his sacrifice. We celebrate his life and example of courageous, selfless public service. May his family, including his son Travis Junior, find peace in knowing their loved one lived and died a true American hero.

I yield to my colleague, Senator Cotton.

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