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[Page H232]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING OFFICER JOSEPH SHINNERS
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Utah
(Mr. Curtis) for 5 minutes.
Mr. CURTIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and sacrifice
of one of Utah's finest. Master Officer Joseph Shinners of the Provo
Police Department was, tragically, killed on Saturday night in the line
of duty.
At the time, he was responding to assist in the arrest of a dangerous
fugitive with a history of violence towards citizens and police
officers when he was struck by gunfire and died as a result of his
injuries.
Joe leaves behind his loving wife, Kaylyn, and 1-year-old son, Logan.
Mr. Speaker, my heart aches every time an officer is killed in the
line of duty, but this one is personal. When Joe made his decision to
work for Provo PD, I was his mayor. In a very real way, I feel
responsible for his training, his work at Provo City, and his safety. I
am deeply saddened by this terrible news.
I stand here on the floor of the House of Representatives, and I
speak for the entire Provo community when I say that Joe is a true
hero. He gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect us, and we owe him
and his family our deepest gratitude.
The chief of the Provo Police Department, Richard Ferguson, described
him as intelligent, honorable, hardworking, and one of his all-stars.
Chief Ferguson described him as the officer you would like to show up
at your door in your crucible moment.
He was born in Boston and graduated high school in Springfield. He
grew up in a home that valued and respected public service, with his
siblings serving as policemen and his father, a retired fire captain.
During his 3 years of service at the Provo Police Department, he
worked mostly in Provo's thriving downtown and on the SWAT team. He
also served on the bicycle patrol and as a field training officer.
Most importantly, he was a good man, husband, and father. One of his
fellow officers remembered that there was a time that he arrested
someone and gave them a hug just as he was arrested to offer them
comfort. That was the type of cop he was.
My wife, Sue, and I offer our deepest sympathy to Provo PD, the
family and friends of Joe, and hope that they know we will never forget
their sacrifice--especially to Kaylyn and Logan.
Our brave policemen and -women face serious potential danger every
time they say good-bye to their families and leave their homes to go on
patrol, and they know that it is possibly the last time they see them
and it could be their final good-bye.
I take this moment to express my sincere appreciation to all of our
Nation's first responders and police officers, but today, especially,
to those of Provo City. We love you, respect you, and thank you.
____________________
