Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
“Yesterday, we observed the beginning of ceremonies honoring National Police Week. Soon we will mark Peace Officers Memorial Day.
“Tens of thousands of law enforcement personnel from across the country will gather here in our nation’s capital to honor the service and sacrifice of their fallen brothers and sisters.
“I’d like to extend a warm welcome to the Kentuckians who’ve traveled here for the ceremonies.
“I’m meeting with several of these law enforcement leaders this week to express my gratitude for their service.
“The Commonwealth is home to every type of law enforcement officer you can imagine, from big-city beat cops to small-town sheriffs.
“They take on great risk every day to protect and serve.
“This week, I am thinking especially about the law enforcement officers Kentucky lost in the past year, whose names will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial tomorrow.
“Heroes like Graves County Deputy Jailer Robert T. Daniel, who sacrificed his own life to save endangered inmates as a tornado bore down on their workplace in which he worked…
“Community pillars like Jefferson County Deputy Sheriff Brandon Shirley, who was shot and killed while working a second job in his uniform….
“Role models like Louisville Metro Police Officer Zachary Cottongim, who was struck and killed by a car while attending to an abandoned vehicle on the side of the road.
“Yesterday I met with Officer Cottongim’s widow and former partner, who are here in Washington for tomorrow’s memorial. We are all praying for them as they mourn this tragic loss.
“I am proud to cosponsor the resolution that officially designated National Police Week this year.
“America’s law enforcement personnel are always there when we need them most. The least Congress can do is have their backs.”