[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 62 (Wednesday, May 18, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: May 18, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
 IN RECOGNITION OF MISSISSIPPI HIGHWAY PATROL TROOPER JOHN W. LEGGETT 
  FOR HIS BRAVERY AND OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO OUR STATE AND OUR NATION

                                 ______


                            HON. MIKE PARKER

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 18, 1994

  Mr. PARKER. Mr. Speaker, today, I stand in the halls of Congress to 
ask you to join me in honoring Trooper John W. Leggett of the 
Mississippi Highway Patrol for his outstanding performance in the 
capture of two North Carolina prison escapees connected with the murder 
of a young Florida woman.
  On April 28, 1994, Trooper John W. Leggett observed a suspicious 
vehicle bearing Florida license plates on Highway 51 outside 
Brookhaven, MI. He trailed the stolen vehicle into town and attempted 
to stop the driver for speeding. When Trooper Leggett started the 
patrol car's siren, the passenger fired a shotgun at him. After Trooper 
Leggett's dogged pursuit of the vehicle through the city, the stolen 
Bronco crashed in a yard. The suspects tried to flee, exchanging 
gunfire with Mr. Leggett. Both escapes were wounded, allowing them to 
be apprehended and arrested. Later, one of them cooperated with law 
enforcement officials, and the body of the Florida nursing student was 
found. Today we thank John W. Leggett for his bravery and tenacity in 
the face of life-threatening danger. Because of his valor, intuition 
and ability, the streets of America are safer. We in Mississippi are 
fortunate to have an officer of this caliber to protect us. He will 
receive a local commendation and the Mississippi Highway Patrol Medal 
of Valor for his bravery and exemplary service.
  Tropper Leggett has been employed by the Mississippi Highway Patrol 
for 7 years. After receiving his training with the Highway Patrol in 
Woodville, MI, he has spent his entire career with Troop M Brookhaven. 
This recent arrest is not Tropper Legget's first experience in a 
national manhunt. During his training, he assisted in the arrest and 
conviction of a murder-rapist from California. But despite his 
impressive arrest record, John Leggett is not the type of patrolman 
glorified in movies and on television. He is the father of three 
children and stays active in their schools. He lives in Lincoln County, 
near Brookhaven, where he goes to church and where he enjoys hunting 
and fishing. John Leggett described as a very strong, very quiet person 
who smiles a great deal. He is worthy of imitation not only as a law 
enforcement officer but also as an outstanding citizen.
  Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that my colleagues join me in 
saluting Trooper John W. Leggett for his bravery and service to my home 
State, Mississippi, and to our great Nation.

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