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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E451]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING OUR OFFICERS DURING NATIONAL POLICE WEEK
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HON. GILBERT RAY CISNEROS, JR.
of california
in the house of representatives
Friday, May 15, 2020
Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, established by a joint resolution of
Congress in 1961 and authorized by President John F. Kennedy in 1962,
National Peace Officers Memorial Day was proclaimed on May 15th. The
proclamation further established the calendar week of May 15th as
National Police Week.
National Police Week honors the heroic and selfless devotion of our
peace officers to our country. It is a time to honor those who make
sacrifices year-round, missing weekends, holidays, and family events to
serve their communities. It is also a sacred time as we honor the
fallen men and women in law enforcement who have laid down their lives
in the line of duty to protect others.
This week we are humbled by the challenges they face and the profound
sacrifices that they make. Despite the daily adversity officers face,
their dedication to protect the rule of law and their communities
remains unwavering. Even in times of grave danger and uncertainty, such
as the current Covid-19 pandemic, our nations' police officers were
some of the first to stand ready to serve and protect the citizens of
their communities.
The spirit of National Police Week is exemplified by those whose
actions reflect courage, sacrifice, and selflessness. I am honored to
rise today and recognize several individuals who bravely serve the
residents of California's 39th District. Serving the Cities of Walnut
and Diamond Bar I'd like to honor Lieutenant Tomas Giandomenico, a 30-
year veteran of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department and an Army
Veteran, Sergeant Paul Parkhurst, who has served since 2006, and Deputy
Jesse Acuna who has served since 2010. From the Fullerton Police
Department, I would like to recognize, Sergeant Ryan O'Neil, who has
served our community since 2008. From the Chino Hill's Sheriffs
Station, I would like to honor Deputy Ed Hernandez, Deputy Eileen
Negron, and Deputy Tony Ortega for the daily sacrifices that they make
to keep our citizens safe.
These deputies have gone above and beyond the call of duty. Not only
serving their community while in uniform, but also using their personal
time to help those in need. Lieutenant Giandomenico and Deputy Acuna
help disadvantaged youth in Kenya at the School of Angels, a school
they founded to provide over 100 children a safe place to gain
educational opportunities. Sergeant Parkhurst, a Marine combat veteran,
helps transitioning veterans who are returning from active duty adjust
to civilian life in the Los Angeles Sheriffs Departments, Vets to Vets
program.
Madam Speaker, I urge you and my other distinguished colleagues to
join me in commending these heroes: Lieutenant Tomas Giandomenico,
Sergeant Paul Parkhurst, Sergeant Ryan O'Neil, Deputy Jesse Acuna,
Deputy Ed Hernandez, Deputy Eileen Negron, Deputy Tony Ortega, as well
as all law enforcement officers, past, and present that make our
country, and my District such a special place.
____________________