[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 103 (Thursday, June 25, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E982]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING TEMPLE, TX POLICE CHIEF GARY SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN R. CARTER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 25, 2015

  Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
distinguished career of Temple, TX Police Chief Gary Smith. With his 
retirement approaching, he will soon close out 37 years of incredible 
service to his community and begin the next chapter of his life.
  A native son of Temple, Smith joined the force right out of high 
school and quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his leadership 
and expertise at every step along the way. Recognition of his 
excellence included his being named Rookie of the Year and twice 
receiving the prestigious Officer of the Year award. Community leaders 
took notice of his great work and Smith was honored by the Temple City 
Council on three separate occasions for his stellar leadership and 
commitment to duty.
  Chief Smith led his department with dedication, honesty, and 
integrity. Over the decades, Smith has seen his beloved police 
department grow from a small town force into a skilled and mobile law 
enforcement agency capable of providing safety to this rapidly growing 
city. Due in large part to his leadership, Temple is now one of the 
safest cities in the country. Locals could always sleep well knowing 
their safety was Smith's first priority.
  As a former judge, I know firsthand the essential role police 
officers play in maintaining law and order and the risks they face 
every time they report for duty. These brave men and women awake each 
day uncertain of what dangers await. Yet they carry on, strengthened by 
their resolve to protect and serve. Police officers, be they big city 
beat cops or small town sheriffs, help preserve our way of life and are 
the shields that guard us from those lost souls who wish harm to 
others.
  Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have made a 
difference in the world; Chief Gary Smith doesn't have that problem. I 
salute his extraordinary career and join the grateful citizens of 
Temple, TX in wishing him only the best in the years ahead.

                          ____________________