[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 115 (Friday, July 15, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1147-E1148]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND SACRIFICE OF MICHAEL SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 14, 2016

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I want to 
recognize the life and sacrifice of a man who served his country and 
the city of Dallas humbly for over thirty years. On July 7, 2016, 
Michael Smith was the first of five Dallas public officers who were 
fatally shot during a protest in downtown Dallas. The shooting was a 
calculated and senseless act of violence intended to tear our community 
apart. Instead, our community has rallied to support Michael Smith's 
loved ones, and honor his legacy. Michael Smith's strong, humble, and 
loving life is the perfect representation of Dallas' resilience in 
times of duress.
  Smith worked in the Dallas Police Department for over twenty-five 
years. During his time in the department, he gained a reputation for 
doing thorough and dependable work. He was recognized multiple times 
throughout his career, most notably winning the distinguished honor of 
being called the ``Cops' Cop.'' The only thing that outweighed his work 
ethic at the department was his easygoing and affable manner. Prior to 
joining the Dallas Police Department, Smith served seven years as an 
Army Ranger, where he developed a strong sense of service and an 
unparalleled dedication to helping others.
  Though Smith's record of public service is incredible, he was best 
known for his role in the community. On Sundays, he acted as a 
uniformed guard at the Watermark Church in

[[Page E1148]]

Farmers Branch. There, he charmed children every Sunday by showing them 
his squad car or telling them dry but easy jokes. People at the church 
were both protected and entertained by Smith. He is survived by his 
wife, a Catholic school teacher whom he met teaching racquetball to 
deserving youth at a YMCA, as well as their two beautiful daughters.
  Mr. Speaker, the shooting in Dallas is a tragedy of enormous 
proportions. However, the impact Michael Smith made to the Dallas 
community and his loved ones is far bigger. Today, we honor his life.

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