[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 20 (Wednesday, February 3, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E96]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING THE CAREER AND SERVICE OF CHIEF MICHAEL SURPRENANT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 3, 2021

  Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker I rise today to honor the career of a 
consummate public servant--Chief Michael Surprenant of the Plainfield 
Police Department. A dedicated law enforcement officer, Chief 
Surprenant has served the town of Plainfield and the 2nd Congressional 
District for over two decades. His tenure as Chief began in 2012 
replacing Robert Hoffman, another role model of public service. His 
character, dedication to the department, and unwavering professionalism 
made him an ideal candidate for the role.
  Over the past nine years, Michael has ushered in a new era for the 
department. Not only fighting for the safety and wellbeing of so many 
in his town, but fighting for the betterment of the department, making 
sure our first responders, who put their lives on the line every day, 
are given the encouragement and equipment they are rightfully due. 
Michael has always put his officers before himself and as leader of the 
force has never had an officer sustain a serious injury or fatality--a 
record for which he should be truly proud. Working as an officer 
through some of the most perilous moments in our nation's history--9/
11, Sandy Hook, and other domestic incidents--Michael has remained 
steadfast and composed in ensuring that the department was trained and 
prepared to tackle various threats at a moment's notice.
  With Michael's years of experience as a patrol office, deputy chief, 
graduate of the FBI's National Academy, and recipient of the Medal of 
Excellence--Michael has been a beacon of wisdom within the department. 
Michael has strived to be a police chief that prioritized the wellbeing 
and safety of his residents above all else and has gone above and 
beyond to ensure that the department had the resources it needed. 
Michael has served as a role model for his fellow officers and has 
truly led by example, and I am certain that his civic dedication will 
continue into the next chapter of his life.
  While Michael's retirement is bittersweet, we know that he has 
groomed only the best to take his place. Madam Speaker, fellow 
colleagues--I ask you to join me in honoring Michael's 25 years of 
service to the State of Connecticut and our nation, and in wishing him, 
his wife Kristyn, and their twin boys Jefferey and Luke--a safe and 
happy future.

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