[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 64 (Thursday, May 15, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S4617]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       DEPUTY JASON HENDRIX: LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER OF THE YEAR

 Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I wish to extend my most sincere 
congratulations to Deputy Jason Hendrix of the San Bernardino County 
Sheriff's Department on being honored today by the American Police Hall 
of Fame as its ``1997 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.'' We are 
extremely fortunate to have an officer of Deputy Hendrix's caliber and 
commitment, and I commend him for the outstanding act of bravery that 
resulted in receipt of this award.
  While off duty in March of last year, Deputy Hendrix observed an 
armed man holding two employees hostage in front of a crowded store. 
After sending his fiancee to dial 911, Hendrix startled the suspect and 
promptly secured the release of the hostages. An exchange of gunfire 
followed, in which Deputy Hendrix disabled the suspect and was himself 
shot six times. The subject was subdued by another off duty officer and 
store employees.
  Few of us can appreciate the perils faced daily by the men and women 
of law enforcement. Each year dozens of peace officers are killed in 
the line of duty. I am thankful that Deputy Hendrix survived this 
confrontation, and I know that his family, friends, and colleagues are 
grateful for his recovery.
  I commend the selflessness and courage exhibited by Deputy Jason 
Hendrix on March 30, 1996. His act of valor almost certainly saved the 
lives of many innocent bystanders. His disregard for his own personal 
safety in defense of others represents the very best spirit of law 
enforcement. It is fitting that on this occasion, National Peace 
Officers Memorial Day, we thank Deputy Hendrix and all California 
police officers who regularly take risks and make sacrifices in service 
to their communities.

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