HONORING SERGEANT ERIK OLSON

HONORING SERGEANT ERIK OLSON

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 35 (Friday, February 21, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 35 (Friday, February 21, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E149-E150] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING SERGEANT ERIK OLSON ______ HON. MIKE THOMPSON of california in the house of representatives Friday, February 21, 2025 Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sergeant Erik Olson of the Napa County Sheriff's Office. I have named Sergeant Olson as the California 4th District's Public Safety Hero of the Year for [[Page E150]] Napa County as a result of his extraordinary selflessness, dedication and service to others. Born in Hayward, California, Sergeant Olson moved to Napa in 1980. He is a graduate of Vintage High School and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration from Sonoma State University. Sergeant Olson attended the Napa Valley College Police Academy, graduating as class president in 2005. In December of 2005 Sergeant Olson began his career with the Napa County Sheriff's Office. During his nineteen years of service, Sergeant Olson has held a multitude of positions, including Marine Patrol Deputy, K-9 Handler, Field Training Officer, Search and Rescue Team Liaison, Community Emergency Response Team Liaison, Napa Sheriff's Mounted Posse Liaison, EVOC/PIT Instructor, and Mobile Field Force Team Leader. Sergeant Olson was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2021, retiring his K-9 partner of seven years, Chase. Sergeant Olson currently serves as the Marine Patrol and Off Highway Vehicle Unit Supervisor in Lake Berryessa. On June 8, 2024, the Napa Central Dispatch received 9-1-1 calls regarding a shooting and fight between ten individuals in the Oak Shores Day Use Area of Lake Berryessa. Sergeant Olson responded to this call, learning as he arrived on the scene there were multiple victims with stab wounds and a gunshot victim. Sergeant Olson then attempted to locate the gunshot victim, breaking up a fight and assisting an unconscious victim in the midst of his search. After locating the shooting victim, Sergeant Olson immediately administered life-saving measures. Tragically, the victim passed from their injuries. As the only officer on the scene for seven minutes, Sergeant Olson's presence was essential in bringing calm to the situation. He performed essential aid to victims and provided Napa Central Dispatch with critical information to relay to other responding units. Sergeant Olson's quick response allowed the shooting suspect to be apprehended and for safety to be restored to the area. Sergeant Olson's actions during this incident show selfless dedication and service at the highest levels to our community and the Law Enforcement profession. Outside of his law enforcement service, Sergeant Olson is also involved in his community, serving at The Father's House ``We Love Our City'' Ministry, which works in partnership with the Napa Valley Food Bank. Beyond his community service, Sergeant Olson loves to spend time with his wife, Sara, and their two daughters, Kadance and Kirra. He is an avid golfer and enjoys spending time outdoors, both hobbies he enjoys with his family. Mr. Speaker, Sergeant Olson's actions on June 8, 2024, as well as his nineteen years of work with the Napa County Sheriff's Office, exemplify the ideals of public service. His courage, dedication, and quick- thinking are truly admirable, and we honor him today. ____________________