[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 6]
[House]
[Page 8502]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING OFFICER GREGG BENNER OF THE RIO RANCHO POLICE DEPARTMENT

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from New 
Mexico (Mr. Ben Ray Lujan) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Officer Gregg Benner of the Rio Rancho Police Department, who was 
killed in the line of duty on May 25.
  I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of 
Officer Benner as they mourn the loss of a husband, father, 
grandfather, and friend who was taken from them far too soon.
  Officer Benner dedicated his life to protecting his community and his 
country. From his career in the United States Air Force to his last 4 
years serving as a member of the Rio Rancho Police Department, Officer 
Benner put his health and safety on the line to make us safer.
  The same was true last week. When most of us were settling down after 
a long Memorial Day weekend with family and friends, Officer Benner was 
doing his duty to protect the people of Rio Rancho. When he didn't 
return that evening, Officer Benner left behind a legacy of valor of 
service.
  The loss of any police officer is a painful reminder of the dangers 
that they face each and every day. While we are shaken by Officer 
Benner's loss, we can take comfort in the memories that he left behind 
for all who knew him and the example that he set for all those in the 
community.
  Rio Rancho is a tight-knit community, and while a tragedy such as 
this is unexpected and shocking, the response has brought out the best 
of its residents, who have displayed an outpouring of support and 
sympathy. My thoughts and prayers are with Officer Benner's family, 
friends, fellow officers, and the entire Rio Rancho community, and I 
hope that they find peace in this most difficult time.
  Officer Benner, thank you for your service, and may you rest in 
peace.

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