Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Vernon J. Alston, a U.S. Capitol Police Officer for 20 years and a constituent of mine from Delaware. Sadly, Mr. Alston left us far too soon, at the age of 44. Vernon Alston came from a military family and, from a young age, was drawn to the service of our country. In 1991, he joined the U.S. Army Reserve, and, in 1996, he began working as a Capitol Police Officer. He spent the rest of his life protecting the Capitol and those who work here. Mr. Alston commuted each day from Magnolia, Delaware. I speak for every one of my colleagues and staff who walk through these doors each day when I say to Mr. Alston, ``Thank you.'' Vernon Alston put his life on the line for us, and we owe him a debt of gratitude. Our hearts and prayers go out to Mr. Alston's wife, Nicole, and his five children. Mr. Alston's neighbors in Delaware and his family here on Capitol Hill share in their grief. Vernon Alston leaves a legacy of service to country that serves as an inspiration to us all. ____________________”