[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 9]
[Senate]
[Page 13644]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       REMEMBERING DEREK JOHNSON

  Mr. HATCH. Madam President. I appreciate the opportunity today to 
honor a true Utah hero--Sergeant Derek Johnson. Sadly, Sergeant Johnson 
lost his life in Draper, UT on the morning of September 1, 2013 in the 
line of duty.
  From a very young age, Johnson always knew he wanted to be a police 
officer. His childhood aspirations became reality as he worked in 
various aspects of law enforcement. While he was still in high school 
he was an Explorer Scout for the Sandy City Police Department; followed 
by time as a police dispatcher, and then completion of police academy 
training. He has worked for the Draper City Police Department for the 
past 8 years, first as a reserve officer and then a full-time officer, 
and recently as Sergeant.
  In 2012, Johnson was presented with the Distinguished Service Medal 
for his role in the investigation and prosecution of a child abuse 
homicide in 2012. He also received the Life Saving Award, and the 2012 
Community Policing Officer of the Year.
  Those who knew Johnson said he loved his family, and he loved his 
work as a police officer. Johnson has been described as someone with a 
good nature and a sense of humor that could light up any room; and the 
ability to make anyone his friend.
  Draper City Mayor Darrell Smith stated: ``I have known Derek for many 
years. He is one of the best and most qualified sergeants on our 
force.''
  Johnson leaves behind his childhood sweetheart and wife Shante' 
Sidwell Johnson, their 7-year-old son, Bensen who he called his 
``little buddy,'' his parents Randy and Laura Johnson, and many other 
family and friends.
  I have the highest personal regard for those who not only enter law 
enforcement but put their lives on the line each day to protect and 
serve our fellow men, women and children in communities across America. 
Sergeant Johnson did just that--he sacrificed to keep his community 
safe and we owe a debt of gratitude to him for his courage and selfless 
service.
  It is my sincere hope that Shante' and Bensen and the many family 
members and friends who love Sergeant Johnson will find peace and hope 
in the life he lived and the example he set for so many to follow.

                          ____________________