[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 14 (Thursday, February 1, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E133]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO OFFICER RUSSELL F. PITKIN

                                 ______


                            HON. BILL BAKER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 31, 1996

  Mr. BAKER of California. Mr. Speaker, in March, one of California's 
finest law officers will retire after 31 years of dedicated service. 
Russell F. Pitkin has been an integral part of the Contra Costa 
Sheriff's Office for more than three decades, providing the kind of 
leadership and excellence that sets the standard for his peers.
  During the course of his career, Mr. Pitkin participated in the 99th 
session of the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA. A holder of a master's 
degree in public administration, he rose from being a deputy sheriff to 
becoming undersheriff, and has served in every rank in the 
investigation division.
  One of the highlights of his career came when he was involved in the 
felony investigation involving members of the Symbionese Liberation 
Army, which resulted in the arrest warrants for the kidnappers of Patty 
Hearst. His diligence in this effort was characteristic of his 
assiduous performance throughout his time in the sheriff's office.
  The men and women who daily put their lives on the line for our 
safety and well-being are among the true heroes of our time. Russell 
Pitkin is one of the foremost of these heroes, and all Contra Costans 
owe him a debt of gratitude for all he has done to make the east bay 
the wonderful place it is. I am honored to recognize him today in the 
Congressional Record, and to wish him every success in his retirement.

                          ____________________