Distinguished Service Award Recipient 2004

U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell

U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell
U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-CO) received the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund’s Distinguished Service Award on May 13 at the 16th Annual Memorial Candlelight Vigil. The award recognized Senator Campbell’s crucial role in crafting the legislation to build the National Law Enforcement Museum, as well as his career-long commitment to ensuring our nation’s law enforcement officers get the respect and honor they deserve. More than 20,000 law enforcement officers, survivors of the fallen, and citizen supporters attended the Vigil.

“During his distinguished congressional career, including 12 years in the Senate and six years in the House, America’s law enforcement officers had no stronger advocate,” said NLEOMF Chief Executive Officer Craig W. Floyd. “As a former deputy sheriff, Senator Campbell fully understands the importance of a national museum in honoring and recording law enforcement’s vital contributions to our nation.”

Accepting the award, Senator Campbell reflected: “Clearly, the courage and sacrifice displayed by our law enforcement officers is having a profound and positive effect on our society. Establishing this museum is the least we can do to honor them and ensure that their stories of heroism and sacrifice are never forgotten.” Senator Campbell was joined by U.S. Representative Joel Hefley (R-CO) in spearheading the legislative drive.

Senator Campbell’s career has been marked by a demonstrated commitment to the safety and security of law enforcement officers. In addition to crafting legislation in support of the National Law Enforcement Museum, he introduced the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2003 (S.253), co-authored the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Act, and annually introduces a resolution designating May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day.