Dave Reichert: “Late in the afternoon on Wednesday, Officer Reginald ``Jake'' Gutierrez of Washington State's Tacoma Police Department…”

“Late in the afternoon on Wednesday, Officer Reginald ``Jake'' Gutierrez of Washington State's Tacoma Police Department responded to a domestic violence call. Despite the potential danger he knew lay ahead, he went forward with courage and a resolute focus on saving lives, sadly sacrificing his own life in the end. Tragically, he was 1 of 133 law enforcement officers this year to die in the line of duty. That is a 20 percent increase, Mr. Speaker, over last year. Officer Gutierrez has served in law enforcement 17 years, and he is one of the few who accept the calling to serve. The men and women who wear the badge like Officer Gutierrez have continued to show resilience during difficult times and have maintained an unshakeable commitment to perform their critical mission of keeping our families safe and protecting our freedoms, whether we are relaxing at home or protesting in the street. Wednesday was no exception. During what became an 11-hour standoff with the suspect, the Tacoma Police Department was assisted by many of its neighboring partners to ensure the surrounding area was secure. What is exceptional about this demonstration, Mr. Speaker, of bravery is that it is not exceptional at all. Men and women every day in this country walk out of their home wearing the badge and the uniform to protect our children, protect our communities, protect our kids at school. I ask all of us to keep our law enforcement officers in their prayers, Mr.…”