[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 3]
[Senate]
[Pages 3896-3897]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING POLICE OFFICER CARLOS PUENTE-MORALES

  Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, Des Moines Police Officer Carlos Puente-
Morales's life was marked by a commitment to serving others and 
frequent expressions of love--love for his family and love for those he 
worked with.
  On March 26, Officer Puente-Morales lost his life in the line of duty 
along with fellow officer Susan Farrell when their vehicle was struck 
by another that was driving the wrong direction on Interstate 80 near 
Waukee. I wish to take a moment to celebrate the life and service of 
Officer Puente-Morales.
  Officer Puente-Morales served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan in the 
Iowa Army National Guard, where he attained the rank of staff sergeant. 
He served his community as a deputy sheriff for Franklin County and as 
an Ottumwa police officer before coming to Des Moines to be closer to 
family. He joined the Des Moines police force just last year.
  Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert has referred to Officer Puente-
Morales as a loyal servant. I believe this to be a very fitting 
description. He was loyal to his family, to his community, to his 
country, and he did it with a heart full of love. He was just 34 years 
old when he left us, but his service and the example he set for all of 
us will endure for many years to come.
  Officer Puente-Morales will be missed by his family and the community 
that he served.
  Officer Puente-Morales's mother wisely said, ``We shouldn't wait for 
a

[[Page 3897]]

tragedy to recognize our heroes.'' She is exactly right. On behalf of 
Iowans and all Americans, I express my gratitude for Officer Puente-
Morales's service to community and country. My deepest sympathy is with 
his family in this difficult time. I thank all those who walk in 
Officer Puente-Morales's footsteps to protect and serve.

                          ____________________