[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 194 (Monday, December 10, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1618]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF JERRY FORRESTER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DOUG COLLINS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, December 10, 2018

  Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
passing of a distinguished leader from Gainesville, Georgia, retired 
Police Chief Jerry Forrester.
  After serving 13 months in Vietnam as a United States Marine, Jerry 
Forrester returned to the states and joined the Gainesville police 
department in 1968. He became Chief of Police in 1985 and is credited 
with updating the department with modern policing standards.
  While leading 65 officers in the police department, Chief Forrester 
worked hard to get ballistic vests and ammunition for officers as well 
as to increase their salaries. At the time, officers in Gainesville had 
to furnish their own weapons and ammunition, and it would have cost 
nearly $900 per officer to outfit each member of the department with 
the necessary equipment.
  Prior to his retirement in 1991, Chief Forrester successfully 
reorganized the department into three divisions, each with a separate 
commander. This restructuring laid a foundation for others to follow.
  Chief Forrester will be remembered as a leader others tried to 
emulate. His dedication and integrity will ensure his legacy is never 
forgotten.

                          ____________________