As someone who once aspired to serve in law enforcement and a proud member of both the Congressional Law Enforcement and Firefighters Caucuses, I deeply admire those who devote their lives to public safety.    

We are blessed to have dedicated men and women public safety officials throughout this nation who consistently risks their lives on a daily basis to protect our families and communities.  It is absolutely critical that we recognize these loyal public servants and ensure that the risks that these brave individuals assume in the course of their duties are not taken for granted.  

Although many local public safety organizations honor those who have demonstrated bravery, the federal government does little to reward and recognize these individuals.  By passing the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Act, Congress would have the unique opportunity to express its appreciation for the unnoticed acts of valor committed by public safety officers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.  Further, this legislation will help send a positive message across the country that our public safety officers deserve our utmost respect for their service and sacrifices.

I will continue to applaud the courage and dedication to duty of all public safety officers and would strongly urge my colleagues to support the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Act.