[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 185 (Tuesday, October 27, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E990-E991]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING COMMANDER THOMAS KOEPPE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 27, 2020

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Commander Thomas Koeppe for his exemplary dedication to his community, 
and to mark his retirement from the Hercules Police Department after 
more than 27 years of committed service.
  Originally from El Cerrito, California, Commander Koeppe began his 
service as a police officer for the city of Hercules in 1993. Since 
joining the force, Commander Koeppe has risen through the ranks of the 
Hercules Police Department, serving as a Training Officer, Special 
Response Officer, and Police Sergeant before becoming a Police 
Commander in 2012. In 2018, he also briefly served as Acting Police 
Chief, leading the department during a time of transition.
  Commander Koeppe has consistently earned the respect and admiration 
of his colleagues and the public, and has been recognized countless 
times for his service to his community. In 1995, he was awarded the 
Medal of Valor for arresting a dangerous individual after a long and 
dangerous car chase. He also led his department in driving under the 
influence (DUI) arrests and was honored by both the department and 
Mothers Against Drunk Driving for his efforts to curtail the dangers of 
drunk driving. His dedication to the city is non-stop, as evident by 
the fact that he has received the Iron 96 award, given to those who do 
not use any sick leave, for 20 consecutive years.
  Commander Koeppe is not only an esteemed member of the police 
department, but he also plays an active role in his community.

[[Page E991]]

On top of his professional role, he is a member of Rotary Club 
International, the City Liaison for Special Olympics Northern 
California, and co-founder of the Hercules Swim Club. Commander Koeppe 
is a prime example of a community-focused officer who is committed to 
building vital ties with the community members whom he is protecting.
  Madam Speaker, Commander Thomas Koeppe is an outstanding law 
enforcement officer and model citizen who has served with honor 
throughout his nearly three decades of duty. It is therefore fitting 
and proper that we honor him today.

                          ____________________