[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 128 (Wednesday, September 17, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1834]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO TODD MARTIN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 17, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and 
this nation today to pay tribute to an extraordinary citizen from my 
district. Todd Martin of Silverton, Colorado showed remarkable bravery 
and dedication as a member of the Montezuma County Sheriff's 
Department. His courage and sacrifice show the spirit of a true hero, 
and I am honored to share his story here today.
  On May 29, 1998, an All Points Bulletin (APB) went out that three 
armed suspects had stolen a water truck. Todd and his fellow law 
enforcement officers raced to respond to what would prove to be a 
dangerous situation, with one officer losing his life in an encounter 
with the armed men. Todd met the wanted men at an intersection, where 
the suspects opened fire. He bravely faced them, selflessly putting the 
well-being of his community before his own safety.
  Todd sustained severe injuries from his fateful encounter. He 
received gunshot wounds to his elbow and knee, lost a significant 
amount of blood, and required five and a half hours of surgery. Todd's 
will was strong and he refused to give up. He pushed his way through 
months of therapy and, on January 11, 1999, Todd returned to active 
service and joined the Colorado State Patrol.
  Mr. Speaker, Todd Martin's bravery and commitment to duty in the face 
of extreme personal danger is an inspiration. It is through the hard 
work of law enforcement officers like Todd that our communities stay 
safe and secure. I am honored to join with my colleagues today in 
paying tribute to one of Colorado's finest. Thank you, Todd, and keep 
up the good work.

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