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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the service of one of my constituents, Telecommunicator John Mann, of the Port Richey Police Department. Telecommunicator Mann is a highly dedicated employee who on many occasions has referred to the Port Richey Police Department employees as his family. Telecommunicator Mann has reported to work on numerous occasions, barely able to walk without a cane when a lesser person would stay home. Not unlike other law enforcement agencies around the country, the Port Richey Police Department has experienced a shortage of qualified personnel to fill vacancies. This puts a strain on existing personnel, but Telecommunicator Mann has helped ease that burden by stepping up to the plate whenever possible. He has covered the shifts of fellow telecommunicators when they are ill, or when the department otherwise requires coverage. His selflessness and dedication to the safety of the officers on the road have outweighed his medical issues in too many instances. As U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, he embraces the notion of service above self and this is truly evident in his interactions with others. He takes care of his law enforcement family and they are tremendously grateful for his continued efforts to keep our community safe.
These are just a few examples of the hard work, dedication, eagerness to help, and servant leadership that Telecommunicator Mann exhibits every day when he goes to work. He is a shining example of what it means to be a Port Richey First Responder. His work ethic should be a benchmark for which other first responders should strive to attain. It is evident that Telecommunicator Mann has made a profoundly positive impact on our community and is qualified to be recognized as a First Responder of the Year for Florida's 12th Congressional District.
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