[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 53 (Thursday, April 22, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E610]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO SENIOR CORPORAL VERNA L. DURDEN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARTIN FROST

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 22, 2004

  Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Dallas Senior CPL 
Verna L. Durden for her years of service and commitment to the Dallas 
community as a Dallas Police officer.
  CPL Verna L. Durden, who retired last month after 36 years of 
dedicated service, began her career with the Dallas Police Department 
during an evolving era. She became the second African American woman on 
the Dallas Police force in 1972, a time period when women on the force 
were still required to wear dresses and high heels. In 1979, she swore 
in Police Chief Glen D. King, becoming the first woman in the nation to 
perform this important duty. During her 36-year tenure, CPL Verna 
Durden swore in over 4,000 Dallas police officers, earned 68 
commendations, and received four certificates of merit.
  Corporal Durden, who has fought her own personal battle with cancer, 
plans to continue serving her community through volunteer work with the 
American Cancer Society. CPL Verna Durden's personal qualities and 
pioneering career has set an example for young women throughout the 
Dallas community to follow.
  Mr. Speaker, I honor CPL Verna L. Durden for her years of commitment 
and continuing contributions to the Dallas community.

                          ____________________