Political Quotes

“on behalf of Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota, Senator John Hoeven of North Dakota, and Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, I rise to honor Jake Ryan Wallin, a Fargo police officer whose life was cut tragically short in the line of duty on July 14, 2023. He lived every day of his 23 years in the service of others, and his loss is nothing short of a tragedy for his family, his community, and our country. Jake was the beloved son of Jeff and Amy Wallin. Raised in St. Michael, MN, he was a graduate of St. Michael-Albertville High School and Alexandria Technical and Community College before attending the American Military University. As a member of the Minnesota National Guard, he was deployed to both Afghanistan and Iraq, where he served honorably. Upon return, he found a new home in Fargo, ND, and continued his life of service with the Fargo Police Department. At Officer Wallin's funeral, the people who knew him best emphasized that more than anything, he wanted to live a life of purpose--to do work that made a difference for people. As a servicemember and a police officer, he did that and so much more. Time and time again, Officer Wallin heard the call of duty and raised his hand to say, ``Count me in.'' That level of selflessness, character, and patriotism is the mark of a good citizen and a good man. A world where everyone lived the values that defined Officer Wallin's life would be a better world indeed.…”