Tom Udall: “we support passage of this measure. Yesterday, May 15, was National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the first day of…”

“we support passage of this measure. Yesterday, May 15, was National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the first day of National Police Week, which are both intended to commemorate the service and sacrifice of those who keep our communities safe. While this legislation is technical in nature, it is an important way in which Members can show their respect for those honored by this memorial and for those who continue to serve as peace officers. Mr. Speaker, there are today more than 17,000 names listed on the memorial here in our Nation's capital. Sadly, another 153 names will be added to the list for 2004, brave men and women who died in the line of duty protecting and serving others. We all had a personal reminder last week of what that selfless service really means when many Capitol Police officers remained behind on the Capitol grounds to evacuate Members, staff, and visitors. Thankfully, that episode proved to be a nonthreatening incident; however, it clearly highlighted the potential dangers the women and men of the Capitol Police are trained and willing to confront. We would encourage everyone to visit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and to let law enforcement officers know just how much we appreciate their service as they go about their duties this week. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.”