Rod Grams: “I rise today to honor Federal, State and local law enforcement officers who work to protect and serve the public on a…”

“I rise today to honor Federal, State and local law enforcement officers who work to protect and serve the public on a daily basis. I am proud to be a cosponsor of S. Res. 247, which designates today as ``Peace Officers Memorial Day'' and recognizes law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. During National Police Week, law enforcement officers in all fifty states will pay tribute to their fellow officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, approximately 130 law enforcement officers lost their lives in 1999 while protecting the public. In my home state, 187 Minnesota law enforcement officers have died in the line of duty since 1914. Most recently, the name of Minnesota State Patrol Corporal Timothy Bowe was added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Sadly, more than 14,000 law enforcement officers paid this ultimate sacrifice during the 20th Century. I am honored to pay tribute to the men and women who demonstrated extraordinary bravery while caring for our families and communities. I would also like to note the extraordinary sacrifice of families who have lost a son, daughter, spouse, parent, or relative who was slain while performing their police duties. We honor the memory of these officers by providing for the families that they have left behind.”