[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 39 (Tuesday, March 11, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E422]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO CHIEF DARWIN HIBBS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 11, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
recognize the service of Chief Darwin Hibbs of Salida, Colorado before 
this body of Congress and this nation. After thirty-seven years working 
for the people of Salida, Chief Hibbs can be confident that his 
community is truly grateful for his years of dedicated service.
  Darwin, who grew up in Salida, started working for the Police Force 
when he was only 25 years old. He started as a parking monitor, but 
through his hard work and dedication he moved through the ranks to 
become Salida's longest serving Police Chief. Under his guidance, the 
Police Force has nearly tripled in size from its original five 
officers. Chief Hibbs and his force have greatly improved the 
protection that the people of Salida receive. While acting as Police 
Chief, Darwin has created a strong and capable force that has been 
intricately involved in the capture of Colorado's largest cocaine ring, 
and various other high profile cases in the state. It is with great 
pride that I have the ability to honor Chief Hibbs today.
  As a law enforcement officer, I am well aware of the dangers and 
hazards our peace officers face today. These individuals work long 
hours, weekends, and holidays to guarantee their fellow citizens' 
rights and protections. They work tirelessly, with great sacrifice to 
their personal and family lives, to ensure our freedoms remain strong 
in our homes and communities. Their service and dedication deserve the 
recognition and thanks of this body of Congress and our nation, and 
that is why I bring the name of officers like Police Chief Hibbs to 
light today.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise before this 
distinguished body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the 
extraordinary service of Chief Darwin Hibbs. His strong leadership and 
dedication have improved the quality of policing for the people of 
Salida and the residents of the entire State of Colorado.

                          ____________________