[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 2]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 2553]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    IN HONOR OF CHIEF ERNEST MENDOZA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. NICK LAMPSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, January 29, 2007

  Mr. LAMPSON. Madam Speaker, I stand here today to pay tribute to the 
life of Chief Ernest Mendoza. Chief Mendoza was a dedicated public 
servant, whose spirit and drive impacted the lives of all of those he 
encountered. On January 19th Chief Mendoza was on his way home from 
work when he was killed by a drunk driver. His sudden and tragic death 
has brought sadness and sorrow not only to his family but also to the 
students and staff of the Needville Independent School District and the 
communities of Fort Bend and Wharton Counties.
  This 54-year-old father of seven was a Christian and military veteran 
who led an honorable life. As a part of the Needville Independent 
School District Police for the past 10 years, and a law enforcement 
officer for 25, Chief Mendoza's drive and passion for public safety 
touched many of his fellow officers on the police force. Students and 
teachers in Fort Bend County will always remember his welcoming smile 
and that he protected them with care.
  His family has established The Ernest Mendoza Law Enforcement 
Scholarship Fund in his honor. This fund is representative of the 
commitment and sacrifice which characterized Chief Mendoza's years of 
service, his character, and integrity. In death, as in life, he and his 
family continue to be dedicated to educating our Nation's youth in safe 
and adequate public schools.
  My sincerest condolences go to the family, friends, and colleagues of 
Chief Ernest Mendoza. May God provide peace and comfort to his loved 
ones, and to those he protected.
  I ask you, Madam Speaker, to join me in honoring Chief Mendoza and 
his family by entering his name and legacy into the Congressional 
Record.

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