[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H1762]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    MOURNING THE LOSS OF DEPUTY BRANDON SIKES AND PRAYING FOR SWIFT 
                    RECOVERY FOR DEPUTY GAVIN WHITE

  (Mr. ALLEN asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. ALLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heavy heart this evening. On 
Saturday, April 26, Columbia County in my district experienced an 
unimaginable tragedy as one of our beloved law enforcement officers, 
Deputy Brandon Sikes, lost his life and Deputy Gavin White was severely 
injured while serving a temporary protective order.
  This heartbreaking event serves as a profound reminder of their 
commitment to selfless service. As they often do, these officers choose 
to prioritize the safety of others above themselves, even in a life-
threatening situation.
  While our community grieves this tragic loss, I am reminded of John 
15:13, ``Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his 
life for his friends.''
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in praying for Deputy Sikes' wife, Amber, 
their daughter, Lyndsey, and all of Brandon's loved ones as they 
continue to mourn this fallen hero.
  Please also join me in praying for a swift recovery for Deputy White, 
as well as Sheriff Whittle and the entire Columbia County Sheriff's 
Department.
  May God's grace be with our entire community as we continue to heal 
from this tragedy.

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