Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Officer Lance Whitaker, who was killed in the early morning hours on May 15, 2018, while responding to a police call for service. Officer Whitaker began his law enforcement career with the Atlantic Beach Police Department in Florida. He then joined the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office and has since served the city of Jacksonville faithfully for 17 years. Officer Whitaker was known among his fellow officers for his kind heart, and he had a very contagious smile. It was clear to those around him that he loved his job and he believed in what he was doing. Outside of work, Officer Whitaker was known as a proud father and family man. He is survived by his 14-year-old son, Cade Whitaker. Just 3 weeks ago, I attended the rededication of the Fallen Officers Memorial Wall in Jacksonville, where we had the chance to remember and celebrate the lives of 61 men who have died protecting our city. Tragically, another name now must be added to that wall. Today, I join the northeast Florida community to mourn the loss of Officer Whitaker. His service to the First Coast will never be forgotten, and my thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all of the JSO family, and I thank them for their sacrifice on behalf of a grateful city. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: ``The purpose of life is not to be happy.…”