Andy Barr: “I thank Mr. Reichert--Congressman, colleague, and sheriff--for this opportunity to support National Police Week and…”

“I thank Mr. Reichert--Congressman, colleague, and sheriff--for this opportunity to support National Police Week and, more importantly, to thank him for his long career in law enforcement and his service. Yesterday, Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity to meet with the families of fallen Kentucky State Troopers Eric Chrisman and Blake Tribby. Tomorrow I will meet with the families of fallen Nicholasville, Kentucky, Police Officer Burke Rhoads and fallen Richmond Police Officer Daniel Ellis. Each of these men died while doing his job, to defend our communities and to keep our families safe. These families have been deprived of a loved one, endured tremendous pain, and made enormous sacrifices so that all of us can live with greater peace of mind. At a time when some are using the bad actions of a few to attack the dignity of the entire law enforcement profession, let the sacrifices of these men and their families remind us that uniformed officers are putting their lives on the line for our benefit every single day. We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to all law enforcement officers throughout this country, and especially to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. My wife, Carol, and I had the privilege and the honor of attending the memorial service for fallen Richmond, Kentucky, Police Officer Daniel Ellis just a few months ago.…”