[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 59 (Wednesday, April 28, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E791]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO OFFICER RUSSELL STALNAKER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MAC COLLINS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 28, 1999

  Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Atlanta 
Police Officer Russell Stalnaker who was killed in the line of duty 
earlier this month. Known to his family and friends as Rusty, the 24 
year old officer was a graduate of Stockbridge High School in Henry 
County. He followed in the footsteps of his uncle and joined the 
Atlanta Police Department three years ago. Rusty was an asset to his 
community, not only as a law enforcement officer, but in his work with 
the Special Olympics and other community organizations.
  In 1997, Rusty married Dana Bertholf. The couple made their home in 
McDonough, Georgia.
  I offer my heartfelt condolences to Rusty's wife and parents, Linda 
and Larry Stalnaker of Rex, Georgia. Our nation is fortunate to have 
guardians who put their lives at risk every single day to protect us 
from violence. Rusty Stalnaker was one of those guardians who watched 
over his family and community. Rusty's life was cut tragically short, 
but his bravery and heroism will long be remembered.

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