[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 88 (Wednesday, May 24, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E487]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE CAREER OF JOPLIN POLICE CHIEF SLOAN ROWLAND

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ERIC BURLISON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 24, 2023

  Mr. BURLISON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable 
career of Chief of Police Sloan Rowland, a true public servant whose 
dedication and commitment to his community have left an indelible mark 
on the city of Joplin, Missouri.
  For 35 years, Chief Rowland has selflessly served the people in 
various public safety positions, starting as an emergency medical 
technician in Kansas and eventually rising through the ranks to become 
the chief of police.
  After joining the Joplin Police Department in 2003, Chief Rowland 
advanced from officer to corporal, sergeant to lieutenant, and 
assistant chief, before ultimately assuming the role of chief of police 
in 2019. His ascent is a testament to his leadership skills and his 
unwavering commitment to public safety.
  Chief Rowland also led the department and the community through a 
time of heartbreak and grief, when a gunman shot and killed Corporal 
Ben Cooper and Officer Jake Reed, and injured Officer Rick Hirshey in 
March of 2022.
  On June 1st of this year, Chief Sloan Rowland will retire after 20 
years of service to the community of Joplin, Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I 
wish to congratulate Chief Rowland on his upcoming retirement and thank 
him for his dedicated service to our community. Chief Rowland has not 
only served as an exceptional law enforcement leader in Joplin but has 
also been an exemplary role model for law enforcement professionals 
throughout the Nation.
  It is my honor and privilege to have him as my constituent, and to 
recognize him today.

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