Joe Donnelly: “today, on the eve of what would have been his 27th birthday, I rise to recognize and honor the extraordinary service and…”

“today, on the eve of what would have been his 27th birthday, I rise to recognize and honor the extraordinary service and ultimate sacrifice of Howard County, IN, deputy Carl Koontz. Dedicated, loyal, and, above all, compassionate to those in need, Deputy Koontz served with the Howard County Sheriff's Department for nearly 3 years. A native of Kokomo, IN, and a graduate of Western High School and Indiana University Kokomo, Carl served his community with dedication as a corrections officer prior to attending the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy and achieving his dream of becoming a sheriff's deputy. Those who served alongside Deputy Koontz describe him as selfless, dedicated, and determined. A respected friend, leader, and mentor, he touched the lives of all who had the privilege to know him, including the students and staff of the Northwestern School Corporation, where he served as a school resource officer. On March 20, 2016, while serving a search warrant, Deputy Koontz and Sergeant Jordan Buckley were shot in the line of duty. We mourn the loss of Deputy Koontz, who succumbed to his injuries, and we wish Sergeant Buckley a quick recovery. Every day, our law enforcement professionals and first responders get up, go to work, and put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. That is exactly what Deputy Koontz, Sergeant Buckley, and their fellow officers were doing in the early hours of that Sunday morning--their job.…”