81R25703(31) JNC-D
By: Crabb H.R. No. 1459
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Members of the Combined Law Enforcement
Associations of Texas are holding their 12th biennial Texas Peace
Officers' Memorial Ceremony on May 4, 2009, and this solemn event
provides a fitting opportunity to honor those heroic public
servants who placed themselves in harm's way to safeguard the lives
and property of their fellow Texans; and
WHEREAS, Citizens throughout the state appreciate the brave
officers who, by their selfless dedication to the public welfare,
enable us to enjoy the benefits of a peaceful and orderly society;
and
WHEREAS, These men and women willingly risk their lives each
day in order to investigate crimes and to patrol our roadways,
communities, prisons, parks, and borderlands; moreover, they
respond in times of crisis, and they also work to educate the public
about crime prevention, adherence to the law, and safety awareness;
and
WHEREAS, Officer Mark Simmons of the Amarillo Police
Department exemplified in his professional conduct the virtues of
courage, dedication, and fortitude throughout his six years of
service with the department; and
WHEREAS, On December 17, 2008, Mark Simmons was killed in the
line of duty, and his untimely death represents a tragic loss to his
family, to his fellow officers, and to the entire community; and
WHEREAS, The heroism of Mark Simmons has earned this esteemed
Texan our deepest gratitude, which the passage of time can never
diminish; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of Officer Mark Simmons
of the Amarillo Police Department and extend deepest sympathy to
his loved ones; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the members of his family and that when the Texas House
of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Mark
Simmons.