[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 107 (Thursday, July 16, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Pages S7636-S7637]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   COMMENDING THE U.S. CAPITOL POLICE

  Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I would like to publicly thank the men 
and women of the U.S. Capitol Police for their bravery and heroic work 
during a particularly challenging week. Last evening after attempting a 
routine traffic stop, an armed man opened fire at our officers. Despite 
the extreme danger, these officers reacted quickly and skillfully to 
ensure that the situation did not escalate and present danger to those 
in and around the U.S. Capitol. The officers who responded willingly 
put their lives on the line and we owe them our deepest thanks. My 
thoughts and prayers are with them and their families today.
  We see the men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police every day as we 
go about our business for the people of our home States. Tasked with 
protecting the iconic symbol of our democracy, the officers of the U.S. 
Capitol Police have shown a steadfast commitment to protecting us, our 
staff, our constituents, and visitors. The mission statement of the 
U.S. Capitol Police states their dedication to protecting ``the 
Congress, its legislative processes, Members, employees, visitors, and 
facilities from crime so it can fulfill its

[[Page S7637]]

constitutional responsibilities in a safe and open environment.''
  I have no doubt in my mind that the Capitol Police has done just that 
in a manner that is nothing short of heroic.
  The U.S. Capitol Police has faced every danger undeterred, ensuring 
that Congress and its mission can continue uninterrupted. Their 
courage, efficiency, and commitment allowed Congress to continue with 
its constitutional responsibilities. We could not do this without them. 
For this, and for our safety, all of us owe them a great debt of 
gratitude.
  As we proceed today with the routine business of the Senate--floor 
consideration of the fiscal year 2010 Defense authorization bill, 
Judiciary Committee hearings on the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor 
for the U.S. Supreme Court nomination hearings and other myriad 
legislative tasks--all of us are able to breathe easily knowing that we 
are protected by such a dedicated and talented force.
  Thank you again for all of your hard work and sacrifice.

                          ____________________