[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 78 (Friday, May 11, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S6013]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

  Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, I rise today to commemorate the hard 
work and sacrifices made daily by law enforcement officers all across 
our great land. Many officers have lost their lives in the line of duty 
so that our families and communities may remain safe. We must never 
forget those who have given their lives to protect us all.
  In 1962, President John F. Kennedy first declared the annual 
celebration of Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week in 
``recognition of the service given by the men and women who, night and 
day, stand guard in our midst to protect us through enforcement of our 
laws.''
  Sadly, since the turn of the last century, more than 126 law 
enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty in New 
Mexico. This year, two New Mexico police officers will be honored and 
remembered by having their names added to the National Law Enforcement 
Officers Memorial in Washington, DC.
  The first, Deputy James McGrane was tragically shot and killed on 
March 22, 2006 while making a traffic stop. Unknown at the time to 
Deputy McGrane, the driver of the vehicle Michael Paul Astorga was 
wanted for a 2005 murder. As he approached the vehicle, Deputy McGrane 
was cold bloodedly shot twice and died at the scene. A massive manhunt 
in New Mexico ensued. After the case was profiled on the television 
show Americas Most Wanted Astorga was apprehended in Juarez, Mexico and 
expedited to the United States. Deputy McGrane had served with the 
Bernalillo County Sheriff's Department for three years and had 
previously served with the New Mexico State Police and the U.S. Postal 
Inspection Service.
  Also being honored this week is Patrolman James Archuleta of Espanola 
who was killed June 4, 2006, in an automobile accident. Patrolman 
Archuleta was responding to a shooting when the accident occurred. 
Patrolman Archuleta had served with the New Mexico State Police for 2 
years and was also a member of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves.
  This week we remember the dedication of Deputy McGrane and Patrolman 
Archuleta and all of our fallen policemen and women who protect and 
serve our communities, and the tragic price they paid for that 
devotion. We must also remember the families of all fallen 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 life in the line 
of duty. To those who continue to serve, we are grateful. You have my 
utmost admiration.

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