Ted Poe: “I want to thank Sheriff Reichert, Sheriff Nugent, and all the Members in Congress who have served in law enforcement…”

“I want to thank Sheriff Reichert, Sheriff Nugent, and all the Members in Congress who have served in law enforcement before they came to the House. This is a solemn week when we show our respect and honor to those who have worn the shield or the star. You notice, Mr. Speaker, the shield or the star is always over the heart, and it is symbolic of protecting us from outlaws, from criminals. Law enforcement stands between us and those who would do us harm. That is why they wear the shield or the star over their heart, because they will give their lives and have for the rest of us, protecting us from those do-bads out there. I served as a prosecutor in Houston, Texas, for 8 years and then 22 years in the criminal courts trying all kinds of cases. I met a lot of police officers. I still know a lot of them. They are certainly a rare breed that would do what they do. Most Americans couldn't go on patrol one day and do what they do. They are to be admired. We honor those who have died last year, but we honor those who have died in previous years. Some in America don't realize that the Capitol Police protect us around the Capitol. In 1998, two Capitol police officers, John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut, gave their lives protecting Members of Congress. We should remember them. Last year, 128 peace officers were killed in the United States. Eleven of those were females. Twelve were killed in Texas, the highest of any State.…”