WHEREAS, We, in this city ofdmiriigfants, mis city; of neighborhoods, this most American of all, cities, are 'particularly cognizant of the "American Dream"; and,
WHEREAS, Though seemingly fixed and inviolable, the complex social fabric of our great-, metropolis could be easily torn asunder were it not for the guardians of the public welfare; indeed, the guardians of the American Dream; and
WHEREAS, Dedication to and fulfillment ofthe motto of the Chicago Police Department "Wc Serve and Protect" - exacts a- substantial physical and emotional toll not only on the officers who must daily cope with the stress and danger of being life's arbitrator for countless citizens, but. also on their family members; and
WHEREAS, Through professionalism and sacrifice, the members ofthe Chicago Police Department have provided us with one of the safest cities in the United. States of America, :allowirig each of us to pursue.our own version of the "American Dream" in safety and confidence; and
WHEREAS, The words of Sir Winston Churchill, "never was so much owed to so few" were never, so apropos; and
WHEREAS, Gerald J. Koch,.Star 715, began his illustrious career with the Chicago Police Department on March 26, 19.90; and
WHEREAS, Gerald officially retired on May 15, 2021, as a Lieutenant assigned to the 008th District; and
WHEREAS, Lieutenant Koch devoted 31 years of his life in service to the people ofthe City of Chicago and in doing so has personally ensured that the City of Chicago is;the safe, healthy and vibrant.community it is today; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the Mayor and the members of the; Chicago City Council assembled this Fourteenth day of October, 2021, do hereby ,express our gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to Lieutenant Gerald J. Koch on the occasion of his retirement, for his dedication, professionalism and personal sacrifice-that he provided during his 31 years of public service; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Lieutenant Gerald J. Koch.