November 21, 2024 is a day we will never forget: it’s the day Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Deputies Ralph “Butch” Waller, Luis Paez, and Ignacio “Dan” Diaz were struck on the side of the road and taken from us. 

These men dedicated their lives to service, and in their final breaths, gave everything for the community that they swore to protect. Their courage and sacrifice represent the very best of law enforcement.

After they were laid to rest, President Trump and I agreed their sacrifice and legacy can never be forgotten. This is how the Medal of Sacrifice was born, and establishes a new presidential medal, posthumously honoring law enforcement officers and first responders who are killed in the line of duty.

It was almost exactly one year ago that President Trump invited the families of the fallen PBSO deputies to the Oval Office where he presented them with the first three medals. And this past February, I was honored to invite Mrs. Waller, widow of Deputy Waller, in Washington as my official guest for the State of the Union.  

Now, we are one step closer as the United States Senate passed the Medal of Sacrifice Act unanimously last night, sending it to the President’s desk. I'm grateful to Senator Lindsey Graham for sharing this mission and carrying it across the finish line in the Senate. 

To Deputies Waller, Paez, and Diaz, and to every officer and first responder who has given everything in service to their communities, your sacrifice will never be forgotten.