[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 124 (Friday, September 21, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1694]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING CHIEF MICHAEL E. RIO ON HIS RETIREMENT

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                        HON. WILLIAM O. LIPINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 21, 2001

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a 
remarkable civil servant and protector of the public. I would like to 
honor Chief Michael E. Rio on his retirement from the Chicago Ridge 
Police Department and to pay tribute to his many years of service to 
the officers and citizens of the village of Chicago Ridge. Chief Rio 
retired from service to the department on August 31, 2001.
  Chief Rio is a 31-year veteran of the Chicago Ridge Police 
Department. Hired as a patrol officer in 1970, he had risen to the rank 
of Detective and then was appointed Chief in August of 1987. He was the 
first member of the Chicago Ridge Police Department to attend the 
prestigious FBI national academy. His dedication, excellence, and 
courage can be seen through the numerous awards and commendations he 
has received, including two Awards of Valor for his actions in life-
threatening incidents. Also, during his many years of service, Chief 
Rio has been instrumental in reforming the Chicago Ridge Police 
Department, making it one of the most state-of-the-art facilities 
around.
  Chief Rio is well regarded by his family and the community for his 
personal character, honesty, and integrity. He is a father of four 
children, Linda, Joseph, Michelle, and Michael Jr., as well as the 
proud grandfather of six.
  Mr. Speaker, as Chief Rio leaves behind a long and rich history at 
the Chicago Ridge Police Department, I would ask that my colleagues 
join me in honoring this great man.

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