Erik Paulsen: “I thank the gentleman from Washington, Chairman Reichert, for yielding. Mr. Speaker, for the past 54 years, we have…”

“I thank the gentleman from Washington, Chairman Reichert, for yielding. Mr. Speaker, for the past 54 years, we have celebrated National Police Week during the third week of May; and once again, thousands of officers and the families of law enforcement are here in Washington this week to remember and honor the sacrifices of our officers who serve and protect our homes, our small businesses, and our families every day. That is because, Mr. Speaker, every day, our Nation's police officers--900,000 officers across this country--wear their uniforms with pride. They go about their jobs without a second thought to the dangers that come with protecting others and in securing our community. Sadly, though, we are reminded too often of the dangers that these heroes face. Just 3 days ago, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Officers Benjamin Deen and Liquori Tate were shot and killed while making a routine traffic stop. They were just 34 and 24 years old. {time} 1800 Last July in Minnesota, Mendota Heights police officer Scott Patrick tragically lost his life in the line of duty. A 19-year veteran, Officer Patrick is remembered as a loving father of two children and somebody who was friendly, helpful, and was always looking to serve others. This year, he would have celebrated his 48th birthday. Instead of a party, his family spent the day in court for the murder trial of his killer. It is not only law enforcement that put their lives on the line to protect and serve our community.…”