- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: May 14, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
HON. THOMAS R. SUOZZI
of new york
in the house of representatives
Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, on National Peace Officers' Memorial Day, to honor first responder Wendy Bolden, who gave her life in the line of duty on May 15, 2014. Wendy Bolden gave everything to her community while serving as a 911 dispatcher. Wendy truly enjoyed helping everyone in her community. It was her true passion. She worked hard to make sure everyone felt safe and cared for.
mother to her three children. Her beloved daughter was 22 when she passed, and her precious sons were only 13 and 9. For over a decade, Wendy's family has carried the memory of her service and suffered the weight of her loss. Her children remember her as a baseball team mom whose personality would bring a smile to the face of anyone she encountered. Wendy had a great sense of humor and could make everyone laugh. She always brought loved ones together during the holidays. She is remembered as someone who welcomed others into her home. Her co- workers expressed the same at her funeral.
officers who risk their lives, who leave their beautiful families behind while fighting to protect ours, let us not forget first responders like Wendy, whose sacrifices are too often unseen. American families sleep safely, knowing that no matter what happens, first responders are just a 3-button phone call away. They are the first line of defense against fires, natural disasters, accidents, crimes, and even terrorist attacks. Today, let us honor our firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and 911 dispatchers. Though we can never repay them, let us pause, bow our heads, and thank them for their bravery and sacrifice.