[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 140 (Tuesday, September 20, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1662]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE RICHARD BERDNIK

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 20, 2011

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call your attention to the 
achievements of an outstanding individual, Sheriff Richard Berdnik, who 
will be recognized by the Central of Polish Organizations of Passaic, 
Clifton and Vicinity on Saturday, September 17, 2011. Sheriff Berdnik 
has been selected as the Contingent's 2011 Marshal and will lead them 
in the 74th Annual General Kazimierz Pulaski Memorial Parade in New 
York City on Sunday, October 2, 2011.
  It is only fitting that he be honored in this, the permanent record 
of the greatest democracy ever known. Richard has been a true public 
servant, one whose commitment to excellence and integrity has helped to 
enhance and protect countless lives.
  Richard is the son of Bernice and Bazil Berdnik, Polish immigrants 
who endured the hardship of Stalin's gulags. He is a graduate of both 
the New Jersey State Police Academy and the prestigious National 
Academy of the FBI.
  Sheriff Berdnik's bravery and involvement in the community make him 
an esteemed individual among his colleagues as well as the citizens he 
serves. He has been honored with a number of awards; among them The 
Meritorious Service Medal he received for his quick and efficient 
response in apprehending criminals. He is also a ``Life Saving'' Medal 
recipient, having saved the lives of an elderly person and a child from 
a burning house.
  Sheriff Berdnik is a member of several professional associations, 
including the FBI National Academy Associates, the New Jersey Honor 
Legion of Decorated Officers, the Clifton PBA Local 36 and the Passaic 
County Chiefs of Police Association.
  Sheriff Berdnik served as a Police Officer in the City of Clifton for 
almost 30 years. The knowledge and experience he has acquired has made 
him not only a great officer, but an outstanding role model to younger 
police officers. It is his commitment, dedication and ambition that 
helped him rise through the ranks of the Clifton Police Dept. These 
same characteristics are what led to his selection as a candidate and 
his election to the office of Passaic County Sheriff in the November of 
2010.
  As Sheriff, Richard has been a loyal and energetic leader, and has 
displayed wisdom and courage in situations requiring strong direction. 
Sheriff Berdnik demonstrated his leadership during the floods of 
Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. He made Passaic County proud 
when he recently testified in front of the House Committee on Homeland 
Security about the need for comprehensive legislation to combat the 
threat from weapons of mass destruction (WMD).
  More than just being a valued leader in the community and honorable 
public official, he is a beloved husband and father. Richard and his 
wife, Monica, have been married for over 25 years and have four 
children: sons, Ryan and Kevin and daughters, Ashley and Alyssa. Ashley 
is also being honored by the same organization as their Miss Polonia 
2011. The Berdnik Family has consistently displayed some of the highest 
American ideals, among which are courage, determination, and integrity, 
and I trust he will continue that legacy.
  Though the job of a United States Congressman involves much that is 
rewarding, few experiences compare to meeting, working with and having 
the honor of recognizing the impressive accomplishments of individuals 
like Sheriff Richard Berdnik.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, the Central of 
Polish Organizations, the County of Passaic, the Berdnik family, 
Richard's colleagues and friends in celebrating the great achievements 
of my friend, Sheriff Richard Berdnik; recognized tonight for his 
leadership, his loyal service to the public and his celebration of his 
heritage.

                          ____________________