[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 83 (Tuesday, June 5, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3723-S3724]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
TRIBUTE TO PHILLIP D. MORSE, SR.
Mr. REID. Mr. President, today I rise to recognize the extraordinary
career of Phillip D. Morse, Sr., who served the United States Capitol
Police with great distinction for 27 years, serving the final 5\1/2\
years as Chief of Police.
Chief Morse entered duty with the Capitol Police in May 1985. After
training, his first duty assignment was providing security and law
enforcement to the Senate. Since that time, he has worked in many
different areas throughout the department, including the Containment
and Emergency Response Team, Patrol Mobile Response Division, Capitol
Division, and Office of Professional Standards and Compliance. Chief
Morse eventually moved to the Dignitary Protection Division, where he
implemented new financial management controls for the division and
managed the overall security planning for the 2004 Democratic and
Republican Conventions.
In 2004, he was promoted to the rank of Captain and returned to the
Capitol Division. Upon his promotion to Inspector, Chief Morse assumed
command of the Capitol Division and oversaw all police, security, and
protective operations at the Capitol Building. During this time, Chief
Morse established a Capitol Security Survey,
[[Page S3724]]
which addressed emergency procedures and protocols for prevention,
response, and mitigation of critical incidents. In addition, he planned
the security, evacuation, and emergency response for the 55th
Presidential Inauguration. He later served as deputy chief of the
Uniformed Services Bureau, the largest component of the Capitol Police.
On October 30, 2006, he was appointed as chief of the Capitol Police.
As leader of the nearly 1,800-officer force, Chief Morse has overseen
enhancements in numerous areas, including recruiting, training,
technology, community outreach, and emergency preparedness. During his
tenure, Chief Morse oversaw the opening of the Capitol Visitor Center
and the merger between the Capitol Police and Library of Congress
Police.
Throughout his career, Chief Morse has continuously exhibited
exceptional skills as a crisis manager, security coordinator,
innovator, and team builder. Always leading by example, Chief Morse
motivated all who came into contact with him through his enthusiasm and
flexibility. Thanks to his leadership and service, the Capitol Police
today is a stronger, more professional, and effective law enforcement
agency.
Born in Wilmington, NC, Chief Morse holds a Bachelor of Science and a
Master of Science degree in management from the Johns Hopkins
University. He is a loving and devoted husband and father of three
children.
Speaking both for himself and the ranks of law enforcement officers
who serve the Congress, Chief Morse once stated, ``The security and
protection of this great institution is not only our job, but we
consider it a sacred duty and privilege to serve you, the Congressional
staff, and the millions of visitors from every corner of the world who
come to the United States Capitol complex every year.'' We have all
benefited from his distinction and dedication.
On behalf of the U.S. Senate, I congratulate Chief Morse on his well-
earned retirement from the United States Capitol Police and salute his
distinguished career.
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