[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 62 (Monday, April 12, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Page S1872]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
TRIBUTE TO OFFICERS JACOB CARLSON AND RANDI GARRETT
Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the service and
bravery of Officer Jacob Carlson and Officer Randi Garrett of the
Casper Police Department.
On May 6, 2018, Jake and Randi responded to a call of children
driving a car around a dirt lot in Casper near Fairdale Avenue. When
Officer Garrett arrived on scene, she found a 3-year-old driving the
vehicle with an adult and another child in the vehicle. The adult was
uncooperative in providing identification and attempted to flee after
Officer Carlson arrived on the scene. While Jake attempted to stop the
assailant from fleeing, he was shot multiple times with a concealed
weapon. Despite being shot with heavy blood loss, Officer Carlson
returned fire, and both officers found cover behind the car. Officer
Carlson's firearm was hit by gunfire. His actions allowed Officer
Garrett to find cover and eventually expose herself to fire a single
shot, rendering the assailant no longer a threat. Jake and Randi's
actions were selfless and ultimately saved the lives of two young
children.
When officers in our community put on their uniforms, they know that
at any time during their shift, they could walk into harm's way.
Without hesitation, they still put on their uniform every day. This
speaks louder than words can describe. It speaks to their bravery,
professionalism, and commitment to the people of Wyoming.
In 2008, Congress passed the Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of
Bravery Act, CBOB, establishing an honor for exceptional acts of
bravery in the line of duty by Federal, State, local, and Tribal law
enforcement officers.
On April 24, 2021, the Wyoming congressional delegation will present
Officers Carlson and Garrett the Congressional Badge of Bravery for
their heroic actions. It will be a high honor to participate in this
ceremony.
I want to thank Officers Carlson and Garrett for their exceptional
valor on this tragic day. The example and professionalism they have set
will shape future generations of police officers throughout Wyoming and
across our great country.
All of Wyoming and the law enforcement community are so thankful for
Officer Carlson's recovery and Officer's Garrett's resolve.
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