[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 63 (Thursday, May 16, 2002)]
[House]
[Page H2515]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  NATIONAL PEACE OFFICERS MEMORIAL DAY

  (Mr. HEFLEY asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. HEFLEY. Mr. Speaker, peace officers around the country are in 
Washington this week to commemorate and honor the 230 officers who died 
last year in the line of duty. Yesterday was National Peace Officers 
Memorial Day, where we paid tribute to the commitment to public safety 
these officers demonstrate on a daily basis.
  As we all know, September 11 stands out as one of the most tragic 
days in American history and law enforcement history. We lost 72 police 
officers on that Tuesday, the largest loss of law enforcement personnel 
in a single day ever.
  While September 11 offered an extreme glimpse of law enforcement 
service and sacrifice, acts of heroism and valor are performed every 
day by police officers across our Nation. Mr. Speaker, 230 police 
officers who died last year represent the sixth deadliest year in law 
enforcement history.
  Peace officers in every community have an admirable record of service 
and sacrifice, yet too many Americans lack a true understanding and 
appreciation of law enforcement's worth. That is why I worked 2 years 
ago to establish the National Law Enforcement Museum in Washington, 
D.C. Once construction is complete, the museum will highlight the proud 
history of the law enforcement profession and educate the public about 
the dangers and importance of the job.
  Unlike most other jobs, peace officers face unprecedented risks while 
bravely protecting our communities and our freedoms. I hope colleagues 
will join me in expressing our gratitude for the work these men and 
women perform.

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