[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 67 (Thursday, May 13, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Pages S5466-S5467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          PEACE OFFICERS MEMORIAL DAY AND NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

  Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, I rise today to remember and pay tribute 
to those from my home State who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the 
line of duty. I sincerely believe we must never forget those who have 
given their lives to protect us all.

[[Page S5467]]

  Each and every day, law enforcement officers risk themselves to 
protect the rights and freedoms we enjoy as citizens of this great 
country. Their commitment and sacrifice make our streets and homes 
safer, our communities stronger, and keep our families secure.
  On October 1, 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-
726, proclaiming May 15 of each year as Peace Officers Memorial Day and 
the calendar week of each year during which May 15 occurs as National 
Police Week. The week is a time to honor Federal, State and municipal 
officers who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty. This law 
was amended by the 103rd Congress as part of the Violent Crime Control 
and Law Enforcement Act in 1994 to order the United States flag on all 
government buildings displayed at half-staff on May 15.
  Since the turn of the last century, more than 60 law enforcement 
officers have been killed in the line of duty in New Mexico ten since 
1996. I would like to bring special attention to two events in 
particular, while realizing that all are nonetheless significant. One 
occurred long ago, and the second just this past year.
  The first took place the year prior to my election to this body. On 
the night of November 8, 1971, New Mexico State Police Officer Robert 
Rosenbloom was gunned down after he stopped a vehicle on Interstate 40 
west of Albuquerque. Three murder suspects--Charles Hill, Ralph 
Lawrence Goodwin, and Michael Robert Finney--fled to Albuquerque. On 
November 27, they forced an Albuquerque tow truck operator at gunpoint 
to drive them to the runway of Albuquerque International Airport. Once 
there, the hijackers seized control of a commercial jet and forced the 
pilot to fly to Havana, Cuba.
  Under the protection of Fidel Castro, they have avoided American 
justice. It has been reported that one suspect died in Cuba; however, 
there are still outstanding warrants for all three suspects. These men 
have been given asylum in Cuba and we continue to seek the extradition 
of these men for trial. Today, I renew my call for Cuba and Fidel 
Castro to return these fugitives. This shall also serve notice that 
those of us from New Mexico have not forgotten, and we will forever 
hold out desire for due justice.
  I would also like to remember Patrick K. Hardesty. Patrick grew up in 
Artesia, NM, where he established himself as a talented musician and 
Eagle Scout. In fact, he was one of my military academy nominees years 
ago. While making a career in the U.S. Marine Corps and Reserve, 
Patrick earned a college degree and joined the Tucson, AZ police force 
after retiring from the military. On May 26, 2003, about this time last 
year, he was brutally shot and killed while investigating a minor hit-
and-run in midtown Tucson.
  I take this opportunity to pay tribute to the unselfish dedication of 
Robert Rosenbloom and Patrick Hardesty, and all the brave men and women 
who have devoted their lives to public protection and service.
  We remember their dedication to protect and serve, and the tragic 
price they paid for that devotion. We also remember the families of 
these two officers and the sacrifices they have incurred because of a 
deep-seated commitment to duty and public service. All of us from New 
Mexico owe a debt of gratitude to each and every officer who has lost 
their lives in the line of duty.
  We would do well to remember to express our gratitude to the officers 
who continue to serve us day to day. The men and women of law 
enforcement, through their service, are most worthy of our thanks and 
highest respect. To all who have paid the ultimate price and to those 
who continue to serve, may we forever be grateful and never take for 
granted what you do. You have my utmost admiration.

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