[Page H1468]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1030
                          HONORING WILLIAM MAY

  (Mr. Patronis of Florida was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mr. PATRONIS. Mr. Speaker, this morning, I rise with a heavy heart 
over the loss of one of Florida's finest.
  On Wednesday, April 2, Walton County Sheriff's Deputy William May 
responded to a local disturbance where he was fired upon by an armed 
suspect. As Deputy May returned fire, he was wounded by the assailant 
and subsequently died.
  Due to his bravery, Deputy May was able to end the potential threat 
to the community before succumbing to his injuries.
  Deputy May served the Walton County Sheriff's Office for more than a 
decade, beginning his career as a communications officer in 2014 before 
taking the oath of office in 2019 as a deputy sheriff. During his time 
in law enforcement, Deputy May earned lifesaving awards and multiple 
letters of commendation.
  Today, the Walton County Sheriff's Office mourns the loss of a fellow 
deputy. The State of Florida mourns the loss of this hero. A wife 
mourns the loss of her husband, and four beautiful children mourn the 
loss of their father.
  Unfortunately, Deputy May's story is one of many first responders 
around our country sacrificing their personal lives working 24/7/365, 
missing birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions in order 
to keep our American neighborhoods safe.
  It is an honor to represent parts of Walton County and share that 
responsibility with Congressman Neal Dunn, who joins me in this prayer 
for the members of our local law enforcement.
  Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for this opportunity to honor Walton County 
Deputy William May for the ultimate sacrifice he made for our 
communities.

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