WICKER, HYDE-SMITH PRAISE PASSAGE OF BILL TO RENAME BILOXI POST OFFICE FOR FALLEN POLICE OFFICER
Bill Establishing ‘Robert S. McKeithen Post Office Building’ Headed to White House
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today praised final passage of legislation designating a postal service facility in Biloxi as the “Robert S. McKeithen Post Office Building.”
McKeithen, a 24-year veteran of the Biloxi Police Department, was ambushed and killed outside headquarters in May 2019. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent Tuesday evening.
“Officer McKeithen was a model public servant who dedicated his life to protecting and serving his country,” Wicker said. “After serving in the Air Force, he continued to give to his community through 24 years with the Biloxi Police Department. I am pleased to join other members of the Mississippi Congressional Delegation to honor his life.”
“Nothing will restore Officer McKeithen to his family, fellow officers, and friends, but this postal facility will serve as a tribute to and reminder of a brave man who dedicated his life to his nation and his state,” Hyde-Smith said. “It is an honor to be part of the effort started by Congressman Palazzo to commemorate Officer McKeithen.”
McKeithen, who received the Medal of Valor for his efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, was also a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where he earned the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Force Achievement Medal.
The House of Representatives passed the legislation to rename the postal facility at 135 Main Street for McKeithen in October. The measure (HR.3175) was introduced by U.S. Representative Steven Palazzo (R-Miss.) and cosponsored by the rest of the state’s House delegation. It will now be sent to the White House.
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