[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 134 (Tuesday, August 8, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E765]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIFE OF OFFICER MATTHEW HARE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF DUNCAN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, August 8, 2023

  Mr. DUNCAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service 
of Easley, South Carolina Police Officer, Matthew Hare, who was killed 
in the line of duty on August 2, 2023, while saving the life of an 
individual suffering from a mental health crisis. Officer Hare was 
driven by a desire to serve his community which led to his pursuing a 
career in law enforcement upon graduation from Easley High School. 
Officer Hare is survived by his mother, Ashley Hare, in addition to his 
brother, Easton Hare.
  At only 22 years of age, Officer Hare had just begun his career in 
2022 and showed great promise after completing the SC Criminal Justice 
Academy.
  When not on duty, he loved to be with his family and friends at the 
dinner table, outside on their next adventure, or playing the latest 
video game. Despite many hobbies, Officer Hare always found time to 
cheer on his favorite football team, the Clemson Tigers.
  On August 2, Officer Hare displayed the greatest form of love and act 
of service that can be asked of any police officer. He responded to a 
call for an individual who was suffering from a mental health crisis 
and was precariously on the train tracks in Easley. Knowing a train was 
coming and committed to saving this person he didn't know, Officer Hare 
sacrificed himself to save a member of the community he swore to serve 
and protect.
  Mr. Speaker, South Carolina's Third District is known for its people 
and is home to countless heroes. I'm honored to recognize Officer 
Matthew Hare, a hero who was taken from us far too soon. Ashley and 
Easton will carry the fond memories of Officer Hare in their hearts 
forever, and Easley will remember this demonstration of selfless 
service. Officer Hare's final actions truly exemplify John 15:13, 
``Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for 
his friends.'' Thank Officer Hare for choosing to serve and giving us a 
great example of how we ought to love others. The Easley community 
learned this lesson as is evident by the outpouring of support for him 
and his family since his passing. Today, my thoughts and prayers are 
with the Hare family and the Easley Police Department as they lay to 
rest Officer Hare.