Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-05-13

RECOGNIZING OFFICER DALTON GARAFOLO

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On 2026-05-13, Representative Gus M. Bilirakis (R-FL-12) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING OFFICER DALTON GARAFOLO" in the House.

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RECOGNIZING OFFICER DALTON GARAFOLO

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E443] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING OFFICER DALTON GARAFOLO ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, May 13, 2026 Mr. BILIRAKIS. I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions of Dade City Police Department Officer Dalton Garafolo for his professionalism, initiative, and strong commitment to community service. Officer Garafolo has consistently demonstrated maturity and sound judgment beyond his years of service. Since joining the Dade City Police Department in December 2023 alongside his brother, he has quickly established himself as a dependable and proactive member of Uniform Operations. His approach to patrol reflects a strong work ethic and a commitment to public safety, resulting in meaningful traffic enforcement outcomes, including citations, arrests, and a measurable reduction in traffic-related incidents. Throughout his early career, Officer Garafolo has distinguished himself by seeking opportunities for growth beyond his assigned duties. He voluntarily completed specialized training, including Glock Armorer School, to deepen his technical understanding of department equipment. He has also contributed ideas to enhance the department's social media outreach and is pursuing his associate degree, reflecting a clear dedication to professional development and long-term service. Officer Garafolo also understands the importance of community engagement. He actively builds positive relationships with residents and participates in department outreach events, including youth tours. On one such occasion, he took time to speak with a young child aspiring to become a police officer, offering encouragement and presenting him with a junior badge. This small but meaningful interaction reflects his ability to connect with the community and positively influence the next generation. Even at this early stage in his career, Officer Garafolo leads by example. He is dependable, professional, and consistently team-oriented. His presence has contributed positively to shift morale, and he represents the department with distinction both on and off duty. I commend Officer Dalton Garafolo for his outstanding service to the residents of Dade City and proudly recognize him as a 2026 Officer of the Year. His dedication, initiative, and professionalism embody the highest ideals of law enforcement. ____________________

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RECOGNIZING OFFICER DALTON GARAFOLO Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E443] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING OFFICER DALTON GARAFOLO ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, May 13, 2026 Mr. BILIRAKIS. I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions of Dade City Police Department Officer Dalton Garafolo for his professionalism, initiative, and strong commitment to community service. Officer Garafolo has consistently demonstrated maturity and sound judgment beyond his years of service. Since joining the Dade City Police Department in December 2023 alongside his brother, he has quickly established himself as a dependable and proactive member of Uniform Operations. His approach to patrol reflects a strong work ethic and a commitment to public safety, resulting in meaningful traffic enforcement outcomes, including citations, arrests, and a measurable reduction in traffic-related incidents. Throughout his early career, Officer Garafolo has distinguished himself by seeking opportunities for growth beyond his assigned duties. He voluntarily completed specialized training, including Glock Armorer School, to deepen his technical understanding of department equipment. He has also contributed ideas to enhance the department's social media outreach and is pursuing his associate degree, reflecting a clear dedication to professional development and long-term service. Officer Garafolo also understands the importance of community engagement. He actively builds positive relationships with residents and participates in department outreach events, including youth tours. On one such occasion, he took time to speak with a young child aspiring to become a police officer, offering encouragement and presenting him with a junior badge. This small but meaningful interaction reflects his ability to connect with the community and positively influence the next generation. Even at this early stage in his career, Officer Garafolo leads by example. He is dependable, professional, and consistently team-oriented. His presence has contributed positively to shift morale, and he represents the department with distinction both on and off duty. I commend Officer Dalton Garafolo for his outstanding service to the residents of Dade City and proudly recognize him as a 2026 Officer of the Year. His dedication, initiative, and professionalism embody the highest ideals of law enforcement. ____________________