NATIONAL POLICE WEEK
Congressional Record Vol. 170, No. 85
(Senate - May 16, 2024) PDF
Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, every year, our Nation comes together
to honor and remember the brave men and women who have made the
ultimate sacrifice in service to their fellow citizens. This week,
National Police Week, stands as a testament to the unwavering
dedication and sacrifice of law enforcement officers across our Nation,
including those in my own State of Mississippi.
Every day, our law enforcement officers put on their uniforms, kiss
their loved ones goodbye, and head out into the unknown, knowing that
they may encounter danger at any moment. They stand as guardians of our
communities, ensuring that peace, law, and order prevail, often at
great personal risk.
We owe a debt of gratitude to these heroes, whose selflessness and
bravery serve as an example of what it means to be a patriot. Their
commitment to uphold the law, protect the innocent, and serve justice
is at the foundation of what makes our Nation great.
As we honor those who have fallen, it is important that we also
remember the families they have left behind. This week, we, as a
nation, join the spouses, children, parents, siblings, fellow officers,
and friends in mourning the loss of these men and women. Their sacrifice
is no less profound, and their resilience and strength get at the heart
of what it means to be an American.
Even in the face of adversity, our officers have remained steadfast
in their commitment to serve.
It is important to me that every officer in Mississippi knows that I
greatly admire you for your loyalty, grit, and determination throughout
such challenges. I will continue to work to ensure you have the
resources you need to do your job.
My State of Mississippi is blessed with amazing law enforcement, who
are not only hometown heroes, but also an integral part of our
communities. Every loss of an officer is deeply felt by all.
I would like to specifically remember and honor the two fallen
officers from Mississippi whose names have been added to the National
Law Enforcement Officers Memorial this year. These officers died heroes
in service to their communities, and we are humbled by their service
and sacrifice.
We remember: Madison County Police Department's Officer Horren Randy
Tyler, 64, who was tragically shot and killed on June 1, 2023, after a
man opened fire on officers during a hostage negotiation. Randy's
colleagues regarded him as a leader and mentor, seeking his guidance in
challenging situations, trusting his 27 years of experience. He leaves
behind his wife, four children, and three grandchildren.
And we also remember: Mississippi Bureau of Investigation's
Lieutenant Jeris Deon Davis, 51, who succumbed to Covid on December 29,
2020. Lt. Davis served in law enforcement for 22 years, including as an
officer with the Mississippi Highway Patrol.
As we reflect on the lives lost and the sacrifices made, let us
recommit ourselves to supporting those who serve and protect us. Let us
stand shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement officers, offering
them the respect, appreciation, and support they deserve.
Let us honor the memory of those who have fallen, and pledge to carry
forward their legacy of courage, integrity, and service. In doing so,
we ensure that their sacrifices will never be forgotten, and that their
spirit will continue to guide and inspire us for generations to come.
I will continue to be an advocate for law enforcement professionals
and provide support where possible and do all I can to honor their
sacrifice.
I am praying that their families and loved ones of our fallen
officers find comfort in knowing that not only is their loss deeply
felt, but it will also never be forgotten. God bless our law
enforcement officers, their families, and the United States of America.