Floor SpeechNeutral2026-02-24

HONORING THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF OFFICER ELIJAH MONROE GARRETSON

TaxesEnvironmentDefenseVeterans

Context

On 2026-02-24, Representative John R. Carter (R-TX-31) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF OFFICER ELIJAH MONROE GARRETSON" in the House. The speech addressed taxes and also covered the environment, defense.

Full Text

HONORING THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF OFFICER ELIJAH MONROE GARRETSON

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E157] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF OFFICER ELIJAH MONROE GARRETSON ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life, service, and ultimate sacrifice of Officer Elijah Monroe Garretson, a devoted public servant whose courage and commitment left a lasting legacy on the Copperas Cove community and Central Texas. Officer Garretson lived a life defined by service. He first answered the call to protect others through honorable service in the United States Army, serving from 2017 to 2024 and attaining the rank of Sergeant. His military career reflected discipline, leadership, and an unwavering sense of duty that guided him both in and out of uniform. Following his military service, Officer Garretson continued his commitment to public service by joining the Copperas Cove Police Department in January 2025. The department sponsored him through the Central Texas College Basic Peace Officer Academy, where he distinguished himself as a top student, graduating with the highest GPA in his class in 2025. He was sworn in as a police officer on June 27, 2025, successfully completed field training, and served on Gold Team Nights with professionalism, integrity, and compassion. On January 10, 2026, Officer Garretson made the ultimate sacrifice, losing his life in the line of duty while protecting the community he served with honor. Beyond the uniform, Elijah Garretson was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother. He married his wife, Alexis, in July 2025 and was a loving father to his five-year-daughter, Elliana. He was also pursuing college studies in social work, driven by a deep passion for mental health and helping others. Though his time with the department was far too brief, Officer Garretson's legacy of service, courage, and compassion will endure. We honor his life, grieve his loss, and remain forever grateful for his sacrifice. ____________________

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HONORING THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF OFFICER ELIJAH MONROE GARRETSON Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E157] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF OFFICER ELIJAH MONROE GARRETSON ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life, service, and ultimate sacrifice of Officer Elijah Monroe Garretson, a devoted public servant whose courage and commitment left a lasting legacy on the Copperas Cove community and Central Texas. Officer Garretson lived a life defined by service. He first answered the call to protect others through honorable service in the United States Army, serving from 2017 to 2024 and attaining the rank of Sergeant. His military career reflected discipline, leadership, and an unwavering sense of duty that guided him both in and out of uniform. Following his military service, Officer Garretson continued his commitment to public service by joining the Copperas Cove Police Department in January 2025. The department sponsored him through the Central Texas College Basic Peace Officer Academy, where he distinguished himself as a top student, graduating with the highest GPA in his class in 2025. He was sworn in as a police officer on June 27, 2025, successfully completed field training, and served on Gold Team Nights with professionalism, integrity, and compassion. On January 10, 2026, Officer Garretson made the ultimate sacrifice, losing his life in the line of duty while protecting the community he served with honor. Beyond the uniform, Elijah Garretson was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother. He married his wife, Alexis, in July 2025 and was a loving father to his five-year-daughter, Elliana. He was also pursuing college studies in social work, driven by a deep passion for mental health and helping others. Though his time with the department was far too brief, Officer Garretson's legacy of service, courage, and compassion will endure. We honor his life, grieve his loss, and remain forever grateful for his sacrifice. ____________________