Heath Shuler: “I rise today in support of Peace Officers Memorial Day, honoring Federal, State, and local peace officers killed or…”

“I rise today in support of Peace Officers Memorial Day, honoring Federal, State, and local peace officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Our law enforcement officers dedicate and risk their lives daily to protect our Nation and ensure that our neighborhoods are safer. More than 56,000 law enforcement officers are assaulted every year, and in 2006, 143 law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty. No words can adequately express our gratitude for their sacrifice and service. My heart goes out to the families and friends who have lost loved ones in the line of duty, and to those officers who have been harmed while serving this great country. A few months ago, Western North Carolina lost one of our own brave officers. Police Officer Shawn Joshua Dean Williams died while responding to a fellow officer's call for assistance in Old Fort, North Carolina. He was only 23 years old. He is survived by his wife, Shannon Kirby Williams; his young daughter, Ryleigh Alexis; and his parents, Max Suttles and Holly Williams. Mr. Speaker, Officer Williams' life was an example of service for all of us to follow. I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing sadness over all the officers lost in the line of duty and to acknowledge the dedication of all law enforcement officers who protect and serve our communities every day.”