[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 59 (Thursday, May 8, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E883]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO JOSE J. ACOSTA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRAD SHERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 8, 1997

  Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jose J. Acosta as the 
California Highway Patrol, West Valley area, American Legion Officer of 
the year. Abigail Adams once questioned: ``If we do not lay out 
ourselves in the service of mankind, whom should we serve?'' Each and 
every day, Officer Acosta puts his life on the line in order to serve 
mankind by guaranteeing the safety of the Woodland Hills community. He 
is truly worthy of this award.
  In his short time on the force Officer Acosta has been a quick study. 
His hard work and dedication have honed his investigative skills and 
earned him the respect of his supervisors and peers. In addition, he 
has fought to ensure the safety of our roads through his aggressive 
pursuit of drunk drivers. In a 12-month period he made over 70 arrests, 
demonstrating his skills in apprehension.
  Officer Acosta's service to our community does not end with his 
shift. He understands that a smile and kind word can go a long way in a 
difficult situation. For proof one only need look at the letters of 
commendation detailing time and time again he is willing to lend a 
helping hand to motorists in distress.
  West Valley is fortunate to have Officer Acosta, and I am confident 
that his dedication will serve as a model for other highway patrol 
officers in the Nation and lead to safer roads for everyone. I commend 
Officer Acosta for his dedication and hard work and congratulate him as 
he is honored as the California Highway Patrol Officer of the year.

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