Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-05-13

NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

EnvironmentCrime & Justice

Context

On 2026-05-13, Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) delivered a floor speech titled "NATIONAL POLICE WEEK" in the Senate.

Full Text

NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S2274-S2275] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] NATIONAL POLICE WEEK Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, National Police Week serves as a solemn reminder of the courage and sacrifice shown by the men and women in law enforcement who lost their lives in service to others. This week, we set aside time to honor their memory and recognize the families, friends, and fellow officers who continue to carry their loss with strength and grace. Behind every officer is a family that serves alongside them. They share in the sacrifices, the uncertainty, and the responsibility that comes with a life of public service. These officers are more than public servants. They are parents, neighbors, mentors, coaches, and leaders who play an essential role in the communities they call home. In my home State of Mississippi and across the country, we are so proud of these dedicated individuals who serve with integrity, professionalism, and honor. This year, we honor the three Mississippi officers whose names have been added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, three heroes who protected our communities and whose legacy will live on. [[Page S2275]] We remember: Joshua Brashears, a Jackson County Sheriff's deputy who died from injuries after his patrol vehicle struck several horses on a dark road in Stone County on October 17, 2025. He served in law enforcement for more than 21 years and is survived by two children and his parents. We remember: Martin Shields, Jr., a Hinds County deputy who was shot and killed while responding to a domestic call on February 23, 2025. After serving with the Jackson and Ridgeland Police Departments, he sadly only served with Hinds County Sheriff's Department for 9 months before his death. He is survived by his wife and daughter. And we remember: Bryan Pippin, a Jackson police officer who passed away from COVID-19 complications. He served with the Jackson Police Department for nearly 20 years, often working parades in the motorcycle unit. We honor the memory of these fallen officers and stand beside their families with enduring respect. As we remember those we have lost, we also must continue supporting those who serve today. That means ensuring law enforcement has the tools, resources, and support needed to do their jobs safely and effectively, while also showing appreciation for their sacrifices. To every officer serving our communities, know that we recognize your service and the sacrifices inherent with ensuring public safety. During National Police Week and every week throughout the year, let us stand together in gratitude for all who protect and serve. May God bless our fallen officers, the families who miss them, all who wear the badge, and the United States of America. ____________________

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NATIONAL POLICE WEEK Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S2274-S2275] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] NATIONAL POLICE WEEK Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, National Police Week serves as a solemn reminder of the courage and sacrifice shown by the men and women in law enforcement who lost their lives in service to others. This week, we set aside time to honor their memory and recognize the families, friends, and fellow officers who continue to carry their loss with strength and grace. Behind every officer is a family that serves alongside them. They share in the sacrifices, the uncertainty, and the responsibility that comes with a life of public service. These officers are more than public servants. They are parents, neighbors, mentors, coaches, and leaders who play an essential role in the communities they call home. In my home State of Mississippi and across the country, we are so proud of these dedicated individuals who serve with integrity, professionalism, and honor. This year, we honor the three Mississippi officers whose names have been added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, three heroes who protected our communities and whose legacy will live on. [[Page S2275]] We remember: Joshua Brashears, a Jackson County Sheriff's deputy who died from injuries after his patrol vehicle struck several horses on a dark road in Stone County on October 17, 2025. He served in law enforcement for more than 21 years and is survived by two children and his parents. We remember: Martin Shields, Jr., a Hinds County deputy who was shot and killed while responding to a domestic call on February 23, 2025. After serving with the Jackson and Ridgeland Police Departments, he sadly only served with Hinds County Sheriff's Department for 9 months before his death. He is survived by his wife and daughter. And we remember: Bryan Pippin, a Jackson police officer who passed away from COVID-19 complications. He served with the Jackson Police Department for nearly 20 years, often working parades in the motorcycle unit. We honor the memory of these fallen officers and stand beside their families with enduring respect. As we remember those we have lost, we also must continue supporting those who serve today. That means ensuring law enforcement has the tools, resources, and support needed to do their jobs safely and effectively, while also showing appreciation for their sacrifices. To every officer serving our communities, know that we recognize your service and the sacrifices inherent with ensuring public safety. During National Police Week and every week throughout the year, let us stand together in gratitude for all who protect and serve. May God bless our fallen officers, the families who miss them, all who wear the badge, and the United States of America. ____________________