John Rutherford: “Mr. Speaker and colleagues, as many of you know, this National Police Week is dedicated to the brave men and women of…”

“Mr. Speaker and colleagues, as many of you know, this National Police Week is dedicated to the brave men and women of law enforcement who have fallen in the line of duty. As a lifelong law enforcement officer and a former sheriff, this day is both reflective and somber for me, my colleagues, and our law enforcement communities nationwide. Every day, our officers put on a gun and a badge and say good-bye to their loved ones, not knowing if they will return home again. They stand as a shield between the vulnerable, who they vow to protect, and those intent on doing harm. Last year alone, 111 officers sacrificed their lives in service to their communities. For this, we owe them a debt of gratitude, and I call on all of us to live our lives worthy of their sacrifice.”