Barr Honors Life of Officer Burke J. Rhoads

Nicholasville police officer and veteran died while on duty

March 18, 2015

Congressman Andy Barr (KY-6) today honored the life of Officer Burke J. Rhoads of the Nicholasville Police Department with a speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.  Officer Rhoads, a U.S. Army veteran, died during a car accident while he was on duty on March 11, 2015.

Video of the Congressman’s speech is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc81Go2S4Fw&feature=youtu.be.

Remarks as prepared:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and note the recent passing of Officer Burke J. Rhoads of Nicholasville, Kentucky.

On March 11, Officer Rhoads was suddenly and tragically killed in a car accident while on duty as an officer with the Nicholasville Police Department.  Officer Rhoads was 35 years old and is survived by his wife, Melissa Suzanne Mason Rhodes and his three children: Jacquelyn, Bryan, and Kevin.

Officer Rhoads was a U.S. Army Veteran and served on the Nicholasville police force for eight years.     

We grieve the loss of this promoter of peace, advocate of laws, and sentry of safety and security in our community.  However, we also celebrate and honor his life and his service.

Inscribed on the wall of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial are the words, “In valor there is hope.”  Officer Rhoads helped to bring his community hope in knowing that they were safer on his watch.      

I thank Officer Rhoads for his service and devotion to our community.

Thank you Mr. Speaker, I yield back the remainder of my time.