[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 7 (Wednesday, February 2, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: February 2, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                    TRIBUTE TO SHERIFF PAUL E. KAIN

                                 ______


                     HON. RANDY ``DUKE'' CUNNINGHAM

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 2, 1994

  Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, when President Clinton gave his 
assessment of the state of the Union last week, he rightly devoted a 
great deal of time of the issue of violent crime. As millions of 
Americans know, there is no issue more pressing or more important. The 
President directed our attention to a valiant New York City police 
officer in the gallery, as a way to note the incredible sacrifice and 
service of law enforcement officers across the Nation.
  I wanted to share the story of San Diego County Deputy Sheriff Paul 
E. Kain with my colleagues in the House. While his story is all too 
common these days, I think Deputy Kain's experience can only serve to 
remind this body of the need to crack down on violent crime and of the 
daily bravery and valor of law enforcement officers.
  On June 6, 1992, Paul Kain was on duty in Lemon Grove, CA, and made a 
routine traffic stop. He was shot by the occupant of the vehicle, 
receiving life-threatening wounds, but remained composed and returned 
fire at his assailant. Deputy Kain survived this attack, but he has 
faced a long and painful recuperation.
  What is truly inspiring to me is that as soon as Paul Kain was able, 
he resumed his work with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department. 
Although he is still recovering from this brutal assault, he is now 
assigned as a missing persons investigator with the homicide 
department. He has managed to put this tragedy to good use, by teaching 
his fellow officers at the sheriff's academy courses such as officer 
survival and crimes in progress. And because his assailant was a drug 
user, Paul's regular lectures to students on the dangers of drugs have 
a special weight and resonance.
  Mr. Speaker, I am happy to report that Paul Kain is continuing to 
recover. He has remained a vital part of the war on crime and looks 
forward to returning to full duty. He has been recognized in the 
community for his service and dedication and is an inspiration to his 
colleagues in law enforcement.
  As we prepare to debate how best to grapple with the difficult issue 
of violent crime, I believe we would be wise to recall the thousands of 
men and women like Paul Kain who put their lives on the line every day 
to protect us. Let us remember their service and sacrifice and commit 
ourselves to getting them the resources they need to do their jobs.
  Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues join me in saluting the courage and 
achievements of Deputy Kain and wish him a full and speedy recovery.

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