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[Page H4894]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
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HONORING THE LIFE OF SANDEEP DHALIWAL
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from
Florida (Mr. Yoho) for 5 minutes.
Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of
Sheriff Sandeep Dhaliwal who was tragically and senselessly killed in
the line of duty last year, September 27, 2019.
Deputy Dhaliwal was the first observant Sikh to serve in Harris
County Sheriff's Office and was the first Sikh American in Texas to
receive a policy accommodation to wear articles of faith, including his
turban and beard, while serving.
His story is an American story. Born in India, he moved to Houston,
Texas, at an early age with his parents. He started a successful
business but felt called to serve and build better relations and
understanding between the Sikh and all greater-Houston communities.
He was a beloved husband, father, and son who selflessly served
others and was a role model to all who knew him. Like many of the brave
men and women in law enforcement who put on the uniform to protect and
serve communities across our great Nation, Deputy Sandeep Dhaliwal is a
hero.
Honoring the Life of Sergeant Eric Twisdale
Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Clay County
Sheriff Sergeant Eric Twisdale who passed away due to complications
from COVID-19.
Anyone who knew Sergeant Twisdale said he was committed to serving
the community. Throughout his 28 years of active service, he showed
that commitment and was rewarded, receiving several awards, including
the Lifesaving Award in 2014 for saving a person from drowning.
He was honored as the 2015 Deputy of the Year for displaying
exceptional valor while helping stop two murder suspects during a high-
speed chase through several counties.
There is a common thread that runs through our Nation's law
enforcement community: courage, and selfless service to others.
Sergeant Twisdale most certainly possessed both in abundance. He is
survived by his children, many grandchildren, and family members.
I thank Sergeant Twisdale for his service and for keeping our
community safe. He will be missed.
Celebrating the Opening of Middleburg VA Clinic
Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the critical work being
done by our VA health centers in Florida's Third Congressional
District, and specifically to congratulate the opening of the new
Middleburg VA Clinic.
On September 15, the Middleburg VA Clinic opened to patients. The
clinic is vital for the health and well-being of so many veterans who
call Clay County home.
Before the state-of-the-art facility opened, I introduced a bill with
the entire Florida delegation that would name this clinic after Naval
Chief Petty Officer Andrew Baker, a former Clay County resident and
American hero who lost his life while serving our country.
During these turbulent times, we must never forget to honor those who
serve and protect our fellow citizens and the Constitution from enemies
both foreign and domestic.
Congratulating University of Florida on Number 6 Ranking for Public
Universities
Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a proud Florida Gator. In the
last ``Best Colleges'' edition of the U.S. News & World Report, the
University of Florida was named the number 6 public university in the
country. That ranking marks the fourth--I want to repeat that, that
ranking marks the fourth--consecutive year the University of Florida
has risen in the rankings for public universities, jumping from number
14 in 2017 to number 6 today.
UF is one of the finest research universities in the United States,
attracting the best and brightest from around the great State of
Florida, America, and the world.
I want to congratulate President Kent Fuchs, his staff, the faculty,
student body, and the board of trustees for their collective efforts in
continuing to elevate the University of Florida to higher and higher
rankings.
And I can't end without saying: Go Gators.
Supporting First Responders and Law Enforcement
Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and show my support
for our Nation's first responders and law enforcement officials.
On September 14, we witnessed the assassination attempt of two Los
Angeles County sheriff deputies in Compton, California.
Just yesterday, we saw two more attacked in Louisville. As I speak on
this floor, the 31-year-old female and 24-year-old male deputies who
were brutally ambushed, thankfully, have been released from the
hospital.
The officers attacked yesterday, hopefully, will survive also. The
support from across the country for these heroes is inspiring, even as
the leftwing radicals shouted obscenities outside the hospital and
yelled they hoped the officers would die.
While the President pursues noble action through peace accords in the
Middle East, the Democratic Party cannot find its voice in admonishing
domestic terrorists targeting our brave law enforcement officers across
the country.
I stand with the President, with our law enforcement, and with the
foundation of this country--respect for life, defense of liberty, and
the protection of property.
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