S*0305 Resolution, By Grooms
 A SENATE RESOLUTION TO HONOR AND RECOGNIZE DEPUTY KIMBER GIST, OF THE BERKELEY
 COUNTY SHERRIFF'S OFFICE, WHO WAS SHOT IN THE LINE OF DUTY IN FEBRUARY OF
 2016.

   01/25/17  Senate Introduced and adopted (Senate Journal-page 10)

TO HONOR AND RECOGNIZE DEPUTY KIMBER GIST, OF THE BERKELEY COUNTY SHERRIFF'S OFFICE, WHO WAS SHOT IN THE LINE OF DUTY IN FEBRUARY OF 2016.

Whereas, the primary responsibility of government is the protection of its citizens; and

Whereas, the men and women of South Carolina law enforcement, the "thin blue line," daily carry out this sacred responsibility; and

Whereas, Corporal Kimber Gist of the Berkeley County Sherriff's Office embodies the finest traits of an officer of the law; and

Whereas, on February 26, 2016, after detaining two suspects, Deputy Gist was shot by one of the suspects in the ear, lip, stomach, and foot. Despite being shot eight times, Deputy Gist heroically returned fire and evaded further injury; and

Whereas, with the help of Deputy Gist, officers located the suspect in North Charleston; and

Whereas, Deputy Gist has since returned to work in the Berkeley County Sherriff's Office. She will receive the South Carolina Sheriffs' Association Medal of Valor on January 26, 2017; and

Whereas, in the face of tensions between the community and the police, Deputy Gist often cites Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s words that "hate cannot drive out hate." Deputy Gist's positive attitude and perseverance are inspirational, and as the only African American woman working on the night shift, she has made history; and

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate appreciate the pride and recognition that Kimber Gist has brought to her State and nation and look to hear of her continued success in the days ahead. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, honor and recognize Deputy Kimber Gist of the Berkeley County Sherriff's Office for her incredible courage in the line of duty on February 26, 2016.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Deputy Gist.