Recognizing Officer Clayton Harmston, Recipient of the California American Legion Law Enforcement Officer of the Year for Valor Award

RECOGNIZING OFFICER CLAYTON HARMSTON, RECIPIENT OF THE CALIFORNIA AMERICAN LEGION LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER OF THE YEAR FOR VALOR AWARD

Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I rise today to bring to the Senate's attention the exemplary achievements and outstanding service of Officer Clayton Harmston of the San Francisco Police Department.

The American Legion, Department of California has chosen Officer Clayton Harmston as its Law Enforcement Officer of the Year for Valor. Officer Harmston is receiving this award for the extraordinary heroism he displayed in the line of duty on July 7, 2002.

On that day, Officer Harmston and his partner stopped a vehicle that was operating in a suspicious manner. During the vehicle stop, Officer Harmston approached the passenger, who was just paroled from State prison. The passenger refused to submit to a search and immediately attacked Officer Harmston. A struggle ensued, Officer Harmston was knocked to the ground face-first, and then the parolee drew his loaded weapon on Officer Harmston. Although injured and dazed, Officer Harmston demonstrated great presence of mind and warned his partner of the gun. When Harmston's partner distracted the parolee, Officer Harmston displayed remarkable courage by attempting to pull the gun away from the parolee. During the struggle, the parolee shot Officer Harmston who was able to roll away to cover, where a gun battle began. The gunman was struck and fell to the ground, refusing to release his weapon until it was taken from his grip.

Officer Clayton Harmston, despite his injuries, used all his abilities and resources to protect his partner and ultimately end this dangerous situation. Officer Harmston is an inspiration to all. It is because of the courage and valor of police officers such as Clayton Harmston that our streets are safer.

Californians are extremely proud of Officer Harmston. He is most deserving of the American Legion, Department of California's Law Enforcement Officer of the Year for Valor award and of the admiration that he receives from colleagues and friends. I am honored to pay tribute to him, and I encourage my colleagues to join me in wishing Officer Harmston much continued success in his law enforcement career.