CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF U.S. CAPITOL POLICE OFFICER WILLIE GOINS

CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF U.S. CAPITOL POLICE OFFICER WILLIE GOINS

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 25 (Thursday, February 6, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 25 (Thursday, February 6, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E101] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF U.S. CAPITOL POLICE OFFICER WILLIE GOINS ______ HON. JONATHAN L. JACKSON of illinois in the house of representatives Thursday, February 6, 2025 Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of dedicated U.S. Capitol Police Officer, Willie Earl Goins. Officer Goins retired from the force this past December after 23 years of service as a member of the U.S. Capitol Police. The brave men and women of the USCP stand guard over our Capitol each day they come to work. They spend their careers prepared to risk their lives to protect our Capitol. Every member in this body is thankful for their service and sacrifice. Among their finest, is Officer Goins. Originally from Nanjemoy, Maryland, Officer Goins attended Lackey High School and graduated in 1991. Early in his life, Officer Goins expressed a desire to serve his country. After graduating high school, he entered the United States Marine Corp where he served honorably for four years starting as a cook and later as a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear defense specialist. Officer Goins has spent 23 years on the force dutifully answering the call to serve. He began his career with the USCP Senate division in February of 2002, and has since worked in the House division as well. Throughout his time in both divisions, Officer Goins has been widely known for his friendliness, work ethic, and good spirit. These traits are readily apparent whenever you meet him. In his 23 years on the force, Officer Goins has made countless memories with his fellow officers. Among the most endearing of his stories starts at the Longworth House Office Building S. Capitol St. Door. While walking up to Longworth one day, Officer Goins encountered his friend and fellow officer, Daniel, on duty with a female officer named Jessica. Daniel introduced Officer Goins and Jessica to each other briefly and that was that. At the time, Officer Goins thought nothing of it but, as fate would have it, Officer Goins and Jessica ended up working a post together a few months later and they struck up a conversation. From this first shift together, more conversations followed until they eventually started dating. They married each other just a few years later, in 2004. They have now been married for 19 years and have three incredible children--Quentin, Briauna, and Mason. After his retirement, Officer Goins plans to spend his time with his wife and children, making the most out of all life has to offer. Before his retirement he told me ``I would like to thank the United States Capitol Police for giving me the opportunity to serve the congressional community with pride and dignity. I would also like to thank the men and women of the USCP for their hard work, tireless dedication and commitment as they continue to protect the symbol of democracy.'' Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my colleagues in Congress, I want to thank Officer Goins for his outstanding service, kindness, and professionalism. I thank him for giving us his best and for providing a safe, secure workplace every day. It has been an honor to serve with him. ____________________