[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 119 (Wednesday, September 11, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1291]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO SGT. DEREK JOHNSON

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                          HON. JASON CHAFFETZ

                                of utah

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 11, 2013

  Mr. CHAFFETZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated public 
servant and American hero who died tragically in the line of duty while 
protecting the city of Draper, Utah. In the early morning hours of 
September 1, 2013, 32-year-old police Sgt. Derek Johnson was ambushed 
while responding to a suspicious vehicle during the last few minutes of 
his graveyard shift. Never able to draw his own weapon or return fire, 
Sgt. Johnson died from multiple gunshot wounds shortly after the 
incident. We honor his lifelong commitment to the safety and security 
of his community.
  Remembered as one of the hardest working officers in the Draper 
Police Department, Sgt. Johnson is a decorated officer who earned many 
awards for his efforts. Not only was he the 2012 Community Policing 
Officer of the Year, he also earned the Life Saving Award and 
Distinguished Service Award for his outstanding service. According to 
his family, he grew up wanting to be a police officer.
  We honor the immeasurable personal sacrifice of Sgt. Johnson's 
family. He leaves behind his wife, Shante Sidwell Johnson and his six-
year-old son Bensen Ray, who he called Little Buddy. His love for his 
family was obvious to all. We also recognize his mother, Laura, father, 
Randy, and four siblings: brothers Devin, Darin, and Dayson and his 
sister Desirae. The Johnson family has endured a terrible tragedy and 
made an extraordinary sacrifice to keep the community safe. We are 
forever thankful.
  The streets of the United States of America stay safe because of the 
honorable and dedicated service of officers like Sgt. Derek Johnson. 
His loss will be keenly felt by all who knew him.
  Today, I ask all Members of Congress to join me as we honor the life 
and legacy of Sgt. Derek Johnson, as well as each man and woman who 
risks life and limb to secure our communities. I also ask that we 
recognize the sacrifice and burdens their families endure in support of 
this great country. We owe them all our eternal gratitude.

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