[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 182 (Monday, December 7, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2898]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


     EXTENDING CONDOLENCES TO FAMILIES OF SLAIN WASHINGTON OFFICERS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 2, 2009

  Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my deep sorrow and most 
sincere condolences to the families of Sergeant Mark Renninger, Officer 
Tina Griswold, Officer Ronald Owens, and Officer Greg Richards. These 
four officers, who so honorably served the Lakewood, Washington, Police 
Department, were tragically gunned down as they began their shifts last 
Sunday morning.
  I, like all Americans, was shocked and horrified to hear of this 
brutal crime against four uniformed officers. Having grown up around 
law enforcement as a young police cadet, I know firsthand the 
challenges and dangers of the job, and the selflessness of those who 
wear the uniform and dedicate their lives to protecting their 
communities.
  I come to the floor today to add my voice to all those expressing 
their grief and their outrage over these senseless killings, and I want 
to send my thoughts and prayers to the officers' families, especially 
the children these public servants have left behind. They will need 
untold strength in the coming days, but I know they will find all they 
need and more in the memory and example that their courageous parents 
have left for them.
  Let us remember always the service of not only these four officers, 
but of all those who wear the uniform and make our safety their first 
priority.

                          ____________________