SR 856: Palmer, Officer Terry "J"; commend

Senate Resolution 856

By: Senators Hatchett of the 50th, Albers of the 56th, Strickland of the 42nd, Bearden of the 30th and Tillery of the 19th

A RESOLUTION

Commending Officer Terry "J" Palmer; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, on September 7, 2024, Officer Terry "J" Palmer responded to a welfare check at the Cameron Circle Apartments involving an individual who had made suicidal threats and was later reported by neighbors to be armed, placing the situation at an elevated and imminent level of danger; and

WHEREAS, as the incident escalated and assisting officers conducted a coordinated search of the area, Officer Palmer maintained his position near the front entrance of the apartment and observed the armed subject, who was now carrying an AR-15 style rifle and stealthily approaching four officers from behind who were unaware of the imminent threat; and

WHEREAS, demonstrating exceptional courage, decisive judgment, and presence of mind, Officer Palmer immediately advanced toward the armed subject, issued verbal commands, and engaged the individual when he raised his rifle, temporarily halting the subject's advance and preventing the ambush; and

WHEREAS, during the ensuing exchange of gunfire, Officer Palmer recognized the danger posed by crossfire to himself and an assisting deputy—while moving to cover, he physically pulled the deputy to safety by her ballistic vest, shielding both officers behind the structure of the apartment building before transitioning to lifesaving measures once the subject was incapacitated; and

WHEREAS, Officer Palmer's conduct during this incident stands as testament to his commitment to the protection of others despite great personal risk and exemplifies the highest ideals of courage, selflessness, and composure under fire; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that gratitude is expressed for the unique and often unheralded contributions of local law enforcement professionals on behalf of the citizens of this state.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body commend the care, courage, sympathy, and selfless dedication exhibited by Officer Terry "J" Palmer in carrying out the difficult duties of his vocation and express their utmost appreciation for having so purely and truly defined for others the meaning of public servant. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Officer Terry "J" Palmer.