HONORING WILLIAM MAY

On 2025-04-08, Representative Jimmy Patronis (R-FL-1) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING WILLIAM MAY" in the House.

HONORING WILLIAM MAY

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 63 (Tuesday, April 8, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 63 (Tuesday, April 8, 2025)] [House] [Page H1468] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] {time} 1030 HONORING WILLIAM MAY (Mr. Patronis of Florida was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. PATRONIS. Mr. Speaker, this morning, I rise with a heavy heart over the loss of one of Florida's finest. On Wednesday, April 2, Walton County Sheriff's Deputy William May responded to a local disturbance where he was fired upon by an armed suspect. As Deputy May returned fire, he was wounded by the assailant and subsequently died. Due to his bravery, Deputy May was able to end the potential threat to the community before succumbing to his injuries. Deputy May served the Walton County Sheriff's Office for more than a decade, beginning his career as a communications officer in 2014 before taking the oath of office in 2019 as a deputy sheriff. During his time in law enforcement, Deputy May earned lifesaving awards and multiple letters of commendation. Today, the Walton County Sheriff's Office mourns the loss of a fellow deputy. The State of Florida mourns the loss of this hero. A wife mourns the loss of her husband, and four beautiful children mourn the loss of their father. Unfortunately, Deputy May's story is one of many first responders around our country sacrificing their personal lives working 24/7/365, missing birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions in order to keep our American neighborhoods safe. It is an honor to represent parts of Walton County and share that responsibility with Congressman Neal Dunn, who joins me in this prayer for the members of our local law enforcement. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for this opportunity to honor Walton County Deputy William May for the ultimate sacrifice he made for our communities. ____________________