[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 80 (Wednesday, May 16, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Page S2721]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

  Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, National Police Week pays special 
honor to the law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the 
line of duty for the safety and protection of our citizens and 
communities. I am proud to cosponsor the resolution designating 
National Police Week as we recognize the service and spirit of all the 
officers who diligently exhibit what Victor Hugo called ``conscience in 
the service of justice.''
  I am especially grateful for the men and women of Rhode Island's 
local and State police who put their lives on the line every day to 
keep our families safe. As a former U.S. Attorney and State attorney 
general, I have worked closely with some of Rhode Island's finest 
police officers, and I believe they are among the best in the country. 
Supporting the vital mission of the police and fostering strong 
relationships between our communities and law enforcement was a top 
priority for me in those roles. Here in the Senate, I remain committed 
to supporting our brave law enforcement officers, their departments, 
and their families.
  I met this week with Colonel James J. Mendonca, chief of the Central 
Falls Police Department and president of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs 
Association. Under his leadership, the association is working to make 
Rhode Island a national leader in gun violence prevention, drunk 
driving awareness, and community engagement.
  Law enforcement officers are the guardians of our communities, often 
paying the ultimate price for our safety. As we recognize the service 
and sacrifice of the law enforcement community this National Police 
Week, I am particularly mindful of the names of some 50 officers from 
Rhode Island etched onto the National Law Enforcement Officers 
Memorial, including some Federal officers who died while on duty in 
Rhode Island.
  In the words of the old hymn:

     Now the laborer's task is o'er;
     Now the battle day is past . . .
     Father, in Thy gracious keeping
     Leave we now thy servant sleeping.

  In Rhode Island and across the United States, we remember and honor 
their vigilance, compassion, and valor.

                          ____________________