On the recordJanuary 7, 2015
Mr. Speaker, this week is Florida's First Responder Appreciation Week. Every day, law enforcement, firefighters, and EMTs put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. Sadly, in my district, Tarpon Springs police officer Charles ``Charlie K'' Kondek was shot and killed right before Christmas as he patrolled the streets on the midnight shift while the rest of us slept securely in our homes. There is no such thing as a typical day for first responders. On average, an officer dies in the line of duty every 58 hours--150 deaths per year. This week, and every day, we should be thankful for the first responders serving our communities. Let us never forget the sacrifices of Officer Kondek and others who have fallen in the line of duty. These brave officers and their families are in our prayers. They are remembered. ____________________
