| Governor Kitzhaber's Remarks |
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| 70th Anniversary |
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Remarks
Governor John Kitzhaber
August 1, 2001
70th Anniversary Ceremony
Salem, Oregon
Thank you, superintendent Ruecker. It gives me great pride to address the 70th anniversary celebration of the Oregon State Police, a state agency to which I – both as governor and private citizen – owe a great debt of gratitude.
The Oregon State Police is a very unique department. Over its 70 years, it has evolved from a law enforcement agency to public safety agency. The Oregon State Police has made successful efforts to expand beyond strict law enforcement, to take on a role that protects Oregonians and our resources in a wide variety of ways.
But one thing that has remained the same through OSP's 70 years are the three words that define it: pride, loyalty and dedication.
As governor, I have had the unique opportunity to see the Oregon State Police at work in many different capacities:
I have met patrol troopers in all corners of the state who put their lives on the line every day keeping our roads and highways safe.
I have worked closely with the criminal justice services division to bring federal resources to Oregon that help prevent crime and keep our young people out of trouble early in their lives.
In times of grave crisis due to natural disasters (wind, floods and fires) I have relied on the steady, professional expertise of OSP's emergency management to help Oregonians survive and recover from devastating natural disasters.
And finally I would like to take a moment to recognize a small, but very special band of OSP troopers: the dignitary protection unit. These are the guys to whom I entrust my personal security – and who keep me running on time. At times, they are literally the individuals keeping the governor's office operation running. Over the years, through many long days, they have shown tremendous patience, logistical creativity and a great sense of humor.
Throughout all of the time I have spent with members of the Oregon state police, every individual that I have met – from superintendent to rookie trooper has shown pride, loyalty and dedication not only for this department, but also for the countless Oregonians they serve.
Finally, on the occasion of OSP's 70th anniversary, if I were asked to add one word to that hallmark of the Oregon State Police, it would be this: compassion. Because beyond the pride, loyalty and dedication that every member of this department shows on a daily basis, every one of them has shown a genuine compassion for each other and the people and the state they serve. And this makes the Oregon State Police truly -- above all else -- a public safety agency.
Thank you.
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