[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 71 (Thursday, May 17, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S3275]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                             2012 TOP COPS

 Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize five 
police officers from my home State of Nevada for being honored with the 
prestigious National Association of Police Officers, NAPO, 2012 TOP 
COPS award for their acts of heroism during a routine fraud call that 
turned into a deadly shooting. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department 
officers John Abel, Michael Ramirez, Corey Staheli, Beaumont Hopson, 
and David Williams' overwhelming courage in the line of duty epitomizes 
the best of what America's police officers have to offer. I am honored 
to recognize this group of Nevadans whose efforts to go above and 
beyond their oath to serve is a testament to the strength of our law 
enforcement community.
  This year marks NAPO's 19th annual TOP COPS Awards ceremony to honor 
members of the law enforcement community for their heroic actions. I 
stand with NAPO in their dedication to raising public awareness 
concerning the contributions made by our law enforcement officers to 
the welfare of our communities. Officer Ramirez literally stood in the 
line of fire to protect shoppers at a Las Vegas WalMart while 
attempting to apprehend a criminal. His colleagues bravely answered the 
call to duty and fatally shot the assailant after he shot Officer 
Ramirez several times in the arm and once in the chest. Fortunately, 
Officer Ramirez's bulletproof vest, along with the bravery displayed by 
his colleagues, saved his life. I am so honored to acknowledge these 
exceptional individuals who are being recognized for their commitment 
to the safety, protection, and well-being of the people and community 
of Las Vegas.
  It is a privilege to recognize our law enforcement officers who put 
their lives on the line for our protection every day. Their dedication 
to upholding and enforcing the law is essential to the welfare of our 
communities and is not taken for granted. The citizens of Nevada are 
proud to honor John, Michael, Corey, Beaumont, and David as TOP COPS 
and thank them for serving and protecting the Silver State.

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