[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 64 (Tuesday, May 19, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E893]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      PEACE OFFICERS' MEMORIAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHET EDWARDS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 19, 1998

  Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, on May 15 our Nation honored the brave men 
and women in law enforcement with Peace Officers' Memorial Day, 
designated 36 years ago by President John F. Kennedy. This day of 
acknowledgment for the selfless contributions made by hardworking 
individuals falls during National Police Week. I rise today to pay 
tribute to all law enforcement professionals across our country and to 
honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
  Last year, 159 officers lost their lives in the line of duty. These 
fine individuals died serving the best interests of our society, 
working hard to protect our citizens. Patrolling our streets and 
highways, protecting our homes and families, and seeking out criminals 
are in the job descriptions of law enforcement professionals. Yet we 
all too often take for granted these hardworking people.
  The National Association of Police Chiefs reported 21 confirmed line-
or-duty deaths for January of 1998, ten more than reported in January 
of 1997. Even as crime rates are dropping, peace officer fatalities are 
steadily rising. Since 1980, 1,182 officers have been killed in the 
line of duty by firearms. According to the Federal Bureau of 
Investigation, 42 percent of those officers could have survived had 
they been wearing bulletproof vests. That is why I am pleased that the 
Bulletproof Vest Partnership Act was approved by Congress last week. 
This bill will provide Federal grants to match State and local 
government funds in purchasing bulletproof vests for law enforcement 
officers. This bill will take steps to provide these brave men and 
women with the tools they need to fight crime, protect society, and 
insure that they make it home.
  We should not forget the hardworking, courageous men an women who 
every day step into the role of peace officer to make our society a 
safer place. I thank the Members for supporting the Bulletproof Vest 
Partnership Act and observing National Police Week and Peace Officers' 
Memorial Day.

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