Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley
released a statement today honoring the brave men and women of law enforcement
as well as remembering Oregon State Police Senior Trooper William Hakim and
Woodburn Police Captain Thomas Tennant.
“We all rely on the selflessness and courageousness of the
men and women of law enforcement to keep our communities safe,” said
Merkley. “I want to ask all Oregonians to take a moment to acknowledge
the bravery of William Hakim, Oregon State Police Senior Trooper, and Thomas
Tennant, Woodburn Police Captain, who tragically lost their lives in a bank
bombing in December, as well as Police Chief Scott Russell who was critically injured.
We should all join together and honor these men for their sacrifices and their
dedication to the safety of their fellow Oregonians.”
[Audio
of Senator Merkley’s comments is available here.]
Oregon State Police Senior Trooper William Hakim and
Woodburn Police Captain Thomas Tennant will have their names engraved on the
National Law Enforcement Wall in Washington, DC in honor of the sacrifices they
made for the safety of others.
“Law enforcement officers put their own safety on the line
every day to serve others,” said Merkley. “We should thank them every
day, but it is just and appropriate that we take a week to specially recognize
the service police officers give to our communities and to remember those who
gave their lives in the line of duty and their families.”
National Police Week is a week of special recognition to
acknowledge members of law enforcement for their service to our country.
Starting on May 10th and continuing through May 16th,
Americans have come together to pay tribute to fallen police officers and
officers injured in the line of duty. President John F. Kennedy
designated May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day, where
fallen police officers are honored for their service to their
communities.
Audio of Senator Merkley’s comments on the bill is available here:
http://www.merkley.senate.gov/imo/media/audio/merkley051509_-_police_officers.mp3
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