[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 57 (Monday, May 2, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E779]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER ERIC ZAPATA

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. FRED UPTON

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 2, 2011

  Mr. UPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Public 
Safety Officer Eric Zapata of Kalamazoo, Michigan, who was killed in 
the line of duty on the night of April 18th, 2011. Our heartfelt 
prayers and condolences go out to his family and loved ones.
  A ten-year veteran of the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, 
Zapata was a tireless public servant who put the wellbeing of his 
community above himself. Like so many in local law enforcement, Zapata 
was a father, a son, a brother, and a friend--he will be greatly 
missed.
  We are all deeply indebted to those brave men and women in public 
safety, whose countless sacrifices allow us to go about our daily lives 
and take our own safety for granted. The pain of this tragic loss is 
felt by every member of our southwest Michigan community.
  PSO Zapata's ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom and security 
will never be forgotten. He leaves a legacy of distinguished service 
and selfless heroism.
  Officer Zapata was the first Kalamazoo Public Safety Officer killed 
in the line of duty. Let's all pray he will also be the last.

                          ____________________