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Remarks of Senator Robert C. Jubelirer (R-30)
PA FOP Memorial Service
Whether they are fighting for freedom around the
globe, or securing the safety of our communities here at home, Pennsylvanians
are every day taking risks and making sacrifices to protect us.
Our thoughts and prayers are with those on the
frontlines of combat and anti-terrorism efforts overseas, but we must not lose
sight of the incredible services provided by our uniformed protectors here at
home.
It is necessary and proper to hold this memorial
service. We ought to take time to reflect on the sense of duty involved in
policing our communities. We ought to honor those who have lost their lives in
service. We surely ought to share our condolences with their families.
When lives are lost, it touches us all. This is
about remembering the names and the faces and the stories of individuals who
were proud to serve. Their work had great meaning for them, and it continues to
have great meaning for us.
In this too is a reminder that we cannot let down in
any aspect of anti-crime effort. These are dangerous times, with the surge in
drug use and drug trafficking fueling more violence, more disrespect for life,
more diminishing of values. The spreading meth problem makes it all the worse.
The more we ask of our police, the greater our concern for them must be.
The number of officers being deployed matters, as
does the equipment, the training, and the community support that our law
enforcement officials receive. Every level of government has significant
responsibility in providing for anti-crime and public safety efforts. What
government cannot provide are the qualities these individuals bring to the job
daily -- determination, courage, character, commitment.
The men and women who serve are quiet heroes. We
grieve for those who we have lost. We salute those who each day put on the
uniform and put their lives on the line. They make our streets safer, our
neighborhoods stronger, and our lives better.
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