[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 82 (Thursday, May 14, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E451]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING THE LIFE AND SACRIFICE OF FIRST RESPONDER WENDY BOLDEN

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                         HON. THOMAS R. SUOZZI

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 14, 2026

  Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, on National Peace Officers' 
Memorial Day, to honor first responder Wendy Bolden, who gave her life 
in the line of duty on May 15, 2014. Wendy Bolden gave everything to 
her community while serving as a 911 dispatcher. Wendy truly enjoyed 
helping everyone in her community. It was her true passion. She worked 
hard to make sure everyone felt safe and cared for.
  Wendy Bolden was a devoted wife to Keith Bolden and a dedicated 
mother to her three children. Her beloved daughter was 22 when she 
passed, and her precious sons were only 13 and 9. For over a decade, 
Wendy's family has carried the memory of her service and suffered the 
weight of her loss. Her children remember her as a baseball team mom 
whose personality would bring a smile to the face of anyone she 
encountered. Wendy had a great sense of humor and could make everyone 
laugh. She always brought loved ones together during the holidays. She 
is remembered as someone who welcomed others into her home. Her co-
workers expressed the same at her funeral.
  During Police Week, as we remember our heroes and heroines, our 
officers who risk their lives, who leave their beautiful families 
behind while fighting to protect ours, let us not forget first 
responders like Wendy, whose sacrifices are too often unseen. American 
families sleep safely, knowing that no matter what happens, first 
responders are just a 3-button phone call away. They are the first line 
of defense against fires, natural disasters, accidents, crimes, and 
even terrorist attacks. Today, let us honor our firefighters, law 
enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and 
911 dispatchers. Though we can never repay them, let us pause, bow our 
heads, and thank them for their bravery and sacrifice.

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