[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 122 (Thursday, July 31, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1289-E1290]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING THE 2014 MINNESOTA POLICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. COLLIN C. PETERSON

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 31, 2014

  Mr. PETERSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sergeant Eric Kilian 
of the Hutchinson, Minnesota Police Department, a brave law enforcement 
officer from the 7th Congressional District who was recently awarded 
the 2014 Police Officer of the Year award by the Minnesota Police and 
Peace Officers Association--the largest organization of professional 
law enforcement officers in the State.
   Sgt. Kilian has served as a law enforcement officer for over 22 
years and was recently recognized for his heroic actions during an 
occurrence that took place last October in Hutchinson. When responding 
to a report of a suspicious person, Sgt. Kilian was faced with a 
dangerous suspect likely under the influence of methamphetamines. The 
suspect engaged the officer in a physical altercation and attempted to 
disarm him and take command of his service weapon. Running out of 
options and thinking quickly, Sgt. Kilian discharged his weapon in the 
suspect's chest. The injured perpetrator attempted to escape but 
collapsed nearby. Sgt. Kilian then proceeded to administer first aid 
until paramedics arrived. The suspect ultimately survived after being 
transported for medical treatment. Based on Sgt. Kilian's actions, a 
dangerous situation was resolved, and a life was saved. Sgt. Kilian's 
professional response to the incident demonstrates his excellence as a 
law enforcement

[[Page E1290]]

officer and I would like to recognize his brave actions before this 
Chamber.
   Mr. Speaker, as a long-time friend, supporter and ally of the 
Minnesota law enforcement community, I am proud to recognize the 
sacrifices our officers make in the line of duty each and every day. I, 
along with all my colleagues, owe a great deal of gratitude to the 
Americans who make this a safer country every single day. It is a great 
honor to represent these heroic men and women and I invite my 
colleagues in the House to join me in congratulating Officer Kilian on 
receiving this recognition.

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