Recognizing Officer Jonathan Diaz

Floor Speech

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Mr. VALADAO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and service of Officer Jonathan Diaz as the California legislature dedicates the Lemoore overpass for Highway 198 and 19th Avenue in his honor.

A Huron native, Mr. Diaz graduated from Coalinga High School. He went on to earn his associates degree in criminal justice from West Hills College. Following his passion for serving his community, he joined the Huron Police Department as a reserve police officer during the summer of 2014. Just one year later, he was named Officer of the Year by the Huron Police Department. He would later join the Lemoore Police Department in 2016, where he earned Officer of the Year in 2018.

Mr. Diaz was equally committed to helping those in his community outside of his regular duties. He was involved in the Youth Adult Awareness Program, where he helped to mentor and guide at-risk children in the community. He also participated in developing juvenile awareness programs to teach local youth about the realities of prison and incarceration and put them on a path to success. Through his dedication to his community and his commitment to service, Mr. Diaz uplifted so many during his life.

Mr. Diaz's courage, dedication, professionalism, and selflessness was well-known throughout his entire department. He played a vital role in solving a significant number of cases, helping to bring justice to those he swore to protect. While he is missed by his loved ones every day, his service still inspires us all.

I ask all my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in honoring the life and service of Officer Jonathan Diaz of the Lemoore Police Department.

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