[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 60 (Tuesday, April 9, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Page S2664]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO CAPTAIN WILLIAM DAVIS

 Mr. SCHMITT. Mr. President, I rise today to honor Captain 
William Davis of Joplin, MO, for his service to the State of Missouri.
  On March 8, 2022, the Joplin Police responded to a disturbance in the 
parking lot of the Northpark Crossing Shopping Center. As he attempted 
to flee, the perpetrator sadly killed Corporal Benjamin Cooper and 
Officer Jake Reed. The perpetrator shot at Captain Davis and Officer 
Rick Hirshey as they pulled up to the scene, seriously wounding Officer 
Rick Hirshey. Amidst these devastating events, Captain Davis 
courageously intervened to stop further harm.
  It is because of Captain Davis's selfless action that this murderous 
rampage was stopped before further losses could be incurred. Captain 
Davis's bravery in the face of danger prompted him to be recognized as 
Public Safety Officer Hero of the Year in 2022. This nationwide 
celebration, hosted by the First Responder's Children's Foundation, is 
dedicated to first responder heroes who risk their lives every day in 
service to our communities.
  Captain Davis is truly a Champion of Missouri. I am grateful for his 
commitment to keeping our communities safe and his willingness to face 
the dangers that arise. I wish him the best as he continues to grow in 
his career as a captain in the Joplin Police Department.

                          ____________________