I come before this august body with a very heavy heart this afternoon. Last Friday night, just a few blocks from my home in Chicago, a terrible act of violence claimed the life of a young police officer. Thomas Wortham IV was a distinguished Chicago police officer. He was off duty on Wednesday night, so he went to visit his parents in a nice neighborhood called Chatham--in which I live only 22 blocks away--to show them his new motorcycle. Officer Wortham was used to putting his life on the line. In addition to being one of Chicago's finest, he recently served two tours in Iraq. He devoted himself to his community and to his country. He exhibited the same courage, valor, and selfless dedication wherever he went. Thomas Wortham was a true American hero. He was the kind of person who keeps us safe and makes it possible for the rest of us to go about our lives free from fear; the kind of person who serves as an example to those around him and inspires others to give back. But last Wednesday night, as he sat on his brandnew motorcycle outside of his parents' home, this remarkable young man was violently taken from us.
Editor's note · Context
Burris honors the life and service of Officer Thomas Wortham IV, who was killed in a violent act in Chicago.
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