[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 12625-12626]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




            DEDICATION OF NEBRASKA LAW ENFORCEMENT MEMORIAL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ADRIAN SMITH

                              of nebraska

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 14, 2009

  Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam Speaker, nestled in a quiet corner of 
Washington D.C. a memorial stands in remembrance of some of our bravest 
citizens. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was dedicated 
in 1991 to honor America's federal, state, and local law enforcement 
personnel. Its walls bear the names of more than 18,000 officers

[[Page 12626]]

killed in the line of duty, dating back to the first known death in 
1792.
  Every May, the nation honors the men and women who paid the ultimate 
price. It is a time to recognize the contributions of more than 900,000 
federal, state, and local law enforcement officers who serve this 
nation and the thousands who have lost their lives.
  Earlier this week, hundreds of Nebraskans from across our state 
gathered to pay tribute to the 130 Nebraska law enforcement officers 
who have died in the line of duty since 1866. On Monday, May 11, the 
Nebraska Law Enforcement Memorial was dedicated to our friends and 
neighbors who gave their lives to make our world a better place. 
Located in Grand Island, the names of these heroes are now etched in 
gold on three granite panels, a solemn reminder of the cost they--and 
their families--have paid.
  It is fitting the pathway to the Washington D.C. Law Enforcement 
Officers Memorial is guarded by a statue of a lion protecting its cubs. 
Thousands of Americans from all walks of life owe their lives to the 
actions of the brave men and women in uniform who protect us. Each day, 
law enforcement officers ensure our laws are enforced and our 
communities are safe.

                          ____________________