[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 88 (Friday, June 12, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1400]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CONGRATULATING CHIEF GEORGE CARPENTER OF WILMETTE POLICE DEPARTMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MARK STEVEN KIRK

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 12, 2009

  Mr. KIRK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Wilmette Police Chief 
George Carpenter, one of the finest public servants in my congressional 
district. Next month, Chief Carpenter will retire after 35 years of 
service to the people of Wilmette, serving as Chief of Police for the 
last 18 years.
  The police chiefs of the 10th District work closely together to 
address their shared concerns. I've had the good fortune to work with 
them and their departments to help combat gangs, drugs and weapons that 
make their way into the suburbs, and the respect that Chief Carpenter 
has among his peers is testament to what kind of a leader he is.
  As chief, he spearheaded education reforms in the Wilmette Police 
Department and leaves a legacy of forward-thinking, well-trained 
officers who will continue to serve the Village. He steadily increased 
recruitment of women, minorities, and those with foreign-language 
ability to diversify and bring new skills to law enforcement. These 
policies have resulted in increased approval ratings of the performance 
of the Wilmette Police Department, reflecting a high level of public 
trust.
  He helped form task forces to counteract the growing sophistication 
of criminals in our area which created a more united regional police 
force. His dedication to quality and service has been a great example 
for other communities in the 10th District. This is particularly 
crucial as Illinois now has the most gang members per capita in the 
nation. I know we are better prepared to meet this emerging threat 
because of Chief Carpenter's service.
  On behalf of the people of the 10th Congressional District, I thank 
Wilmette Police Chief George Carpenter for his outstanding public 
service and wish him the best in his future endeavors. Our community is 
safer and stronger because of his leadership.

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