[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 51 (Thursday, March 26, 2015)]
[Senate]
[Page S2037]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    CONGRATULATING GERMAN RODRIGUEZ

 Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, I congratulate Reno Police Officer 
German Rodriguez on receiving the Congressional Badge of Bravery, a 
well-deserved award after his extreme act of courage. On October 16, 
2013, an armed robbery took place at a Bank of America in Reno, 
resulting in the death a patron. Mr. Rodriguez was off duty and unarmed 
when he witnessed the occurrence at the bank, but he called 911 and 
followed the suspect after he had fled the scene. Mr. Rodriguez then 
apprehended and disarmed the suspect at a nearby bus station to be sure 
the situation would not escalate or result in the suspect getting away. 
Responding officers arrived shortly after to take the suspect into 
custody. It gives me great pleasure to recognize Mr. Rodriguez for his 
unwavering commitment to protecting his community in both this instance 
and throughout his tenure as an officer.
  Mr. Rodriguez began his career as a Reno police officer in 1998 and 
has remained committed to his job and his community ever since. His 
dedication to keeping those around him safe is commendable, and his 
commitment to service above self is a shining example of heroism. The 
Reno community is safer because of Mr. Rodriguez.
  The Congressional Badge of Bravery is awarded to law enforcement 
officers who have sustained a physical injury or were at great risk of 
physical injury while protecting their community. Mr. Rodriguez's 
actions more than warrant this prestigious award and represent only the 
greatest of Nevada's values, including a sense of community and an 
obligation to help others. His actions prove that he consistently makes 
the safety and security of others a top priority and is always ready to 
respond at a moment's notice. He is a role model to future generations 
of Reno police officers and officers across the country.
  During his tenure, Mr. Rodriguez has demonstrated immeasurable 
bravery, commitment to excellence, and dedication to the highest 
standards of the police force. I am both humbled and honored by his 
service and am proud to call him a fellow Nevadan. Today, I ask my 
colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Rodriguez for all of his 
accomplishments and wish him well in all of his future 
endeavors.

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