[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 35 (Friday, February 21, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E147-E148]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING OFFICER MATTHEW BOWEN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 21, 2025

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor 
Officer Matthew Bowen of the Vacaville Police Department. I have named 
Officer Bowen as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of 
the Year for Solano County in honor of his ultimate sacrifice to our 
community, tragically losing his life in the line of duty. Officer 
Bowen exemplified the highest ideals of law enforcement--service, 
integrity, and sacrifice--and his devotion to protecting our community 
will never be forgotten.
  Born in Walnut Creek, California, Officer Bowen was active in his 
church and the Boy Scouts of America, where he became a senior leader 
of his troop and achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. His 
commitment

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to service led him to Arizona State University, where he earned a 
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, preparing him for a career 
dedicated to public safety.
  Officer Bowen joined the Vacaville Police Department in 2023 after 
serving with distinction as a Police Officer for the City of Concord. 
In both departments, he was celebrated for his kindness, humor, work 
ethic, and unwavering calm under pressure. Colleagues and community 
members alike remember him as a compassionate officer who treated 
everyone with dignity and respect.
  On Thursday, July 11, 2024, Officer Bowen was initiating a traffic 
stop when he was struck by a vehicle, tragically losing his life in the 
line of duty. His selfless dedication to protecting others, even in the 
face of danger, is a testament to his courage and commitment to public 
service.
  Officer Bowen is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and their two young 
sons, Mason and Everett. In the wake of his passing, condolences poured 
in from across the country, with community members sharing heartfelt 
memories of his kindness and dedication. He was remembered as an 
inspiration to others, a person who encouraged those around him to be 
better, and as a compassionate soul who went beyond the duties of his 
profession to support those in need.
  Mr. Speaker, Officer Bowen's bravery, compassion, and unwavering 
commitment to his community embody the very essence of public service. 
His loss is deeply felt, but his memory will endure as an inspiration 
to all who follow in his footsteps. We extend our deepest condolences 
to his family, friends, and colleagues, and we honor Officer Matthew 
Bowen's legacy of courage and sacrifice. He will never be forgotten.

                          ____________________