Heroic Actions Of Nevada's Federal Agents

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. ENSIGN. Mr. President, I am honored to rise today to pay tribute to the brave men who literally fought off evil on January 4, 2010, at the Lloyd D. George Federal Building in Las Vegas, NV. On that tragic day, an armed assailant entered the lobby of the courthouse with clear objectives, to kill as many innocent people as he possibly could. Court Security Officer Stanley Cooper went to work that day with the same vision and determination he had every day; that was to keep the employees and visitors to the Federal building safe as they went about their lives. Tragically, Stan was fatally wounded by the gunman as he faithfully stood his watch at the security check point that morning.

Stanley Cooper was a quiet and gentle man who dedicated his life to the service and protection of others. He retired after 26 years as an officer with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and then chose a life of service again as a court security officer. Stan will always be remembered as a hero, not only because he gave his life in that one terrible moment on January 4 but also because he gave his life every day in the selfless act of serving others.

The other court security officers on duty that day, along with members of the U.S. Marshals Service and a detention officer, acted swiftly and bravely to subdue the gunman and protect the countless innocent lives that were in harm's way. Deputy U.S. Marshal Richard J. ``Joe'' Gardner was wounded in the ensuing battle as he and the other officers valiantly fought off the deadly attack.

It is with utmost gratitude that I take a moment to remember and commend the life of a true hero, Officer Stanley Cooper, and to thank Deputy U.S. Marshal Joe Gardner, the court security officers, the U.S. deputy marshals, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers, and all law enforcement officers who responded to the heinous assault at the Lloyd D. George Federal Building on January 4, 2010, for their brave and courageous actions. Stan and the other officers answered the call of duty that day without concern for themselves or their own safety. Their sacrifice and courage will not be forgotten.

May God grant Stan's beloved family and friends peace and comfort in this time of loss, and may He continue to protect all the men and women in law enforcement who selflessly serve and protect others.

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