Supporting The Goals And Ideals of Peace Officers Memorial Day

Floor Speech

SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND IDEALS OF PEACE OFFICERS MEMORIAL DAY -- (House of Representatives - May 08, 2007)

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 291) supporting the goals and ideals of Peace Officers Memorial Day.

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Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks.

The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Illinois?

There was no objection.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I might consume.

As a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, I am pleased to join my colleague in consideration of House Resolution 291, which honors our fallen law enforcement officers.

H. Res. 291, which has 72 cosponsors, was introduced by Representative Ted Poe of Texas on March 29, 2007. H. Res. 291 was reported from the Oversight Committee on May 1, 2007, by a voice vote.

Historically, America has been blessed with citizens of courage and character who have dedicated their lives to keeping peace in our communities. Five years after the creation of the U.S. Marshals Service in 1789, U.S. Marshal Robert Forsyth was shot and killed in the line of duty. He was the first of more than 14,000 law enforcement personnel since that time to give his or her life to uphold the law.

Last year, 143 officers gave their lives in the line of duty. For these heroes, the safety of their fellow citizens was their purpose and passion. They made the ultimate sacrifice to fulfill their duty and service to humanity.

Each year, the President issues a proclamation naming May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day. Our Nation owes a lasting debt and gratitude to the men and women of law enforcement who risk their lives each day to protect and serve the citizens of this Nation.

Every American should honor peace officers, not only in words and ceremony but in their commitment to promote justice, fairness and peace in their homes, communities, schools and businesses.

Mr. Speaker, I commend Representative Poe for seeking to honor our fallen heroes,

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Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I want to commend the gentleman from Texas for introducing this very meaningful and worthwhile legislation. I think all of us owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to our law enforcement officers and personnel throughout the country. I urge passage of this resolution.

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