[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 61 (Thursday, May 14, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E863]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         IN APPRECIATION OF NATIONAL POLICE WEEK MAY 14TH, 1998

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JACK QUINN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 14, 1998

  Mr. QUINN. Mr. Speaker, thirty-six years ago, President John F. 
Kennedy designated May 15th as Peace Officers' Memorial Day, and the 
week in which May 15th falls as National Police Week. I rise today to 
salute all law enforcement officers across this country, and to 
remember those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
  The protection offered to each of us by this country's law 
enforcement officials should not be taken for granted, nor should we 
forget the men and women who lost their lives in the line of duty. In 
1997, 160 law enforcement officers, nearly forty percent more than in 
1996, lost their lives in the line of duty. From 1990-1995, there had 
been an average of 151 fatalities annually.
  Over the past two years, the city of Buffalo has lost two of our 
finest law enforcement officials, killed in the line of duty. On April 
9, 1997, Officer Charles McDougal was senselessly murdered while on 
duty. Just a few months ago, Officer Robert McLellan was killed while 
chasing a fugitive sought by bounty hunters. Both officers served their 
community with honor, distinction and bravery.
  Members of the law enforcement agency throughout this country play an 
essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of all 
Americans. We must continue to recognize and appreciate the problems, 
duties and responsibilities faced by all law enforcement officials 
throughout this country.
  Everyday, men and women across America go to work with the single 
purpose of making all of our lives safer. They work long hours in an 
often thankless job. But this week is our chance to thank them for all 
they have done and continue to do. It is also a chance to remember 
those that have died while making our country a safer place.
  Mr. Speaker, I call upon all citizens of this country to observe 
Friday May 15 as Peace Officers' Memorial Day in honor of those peace 
officers who, through their courageous deeds, have lost their lives or 
have become disabled in the performance of duty.

                          ____________________