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Jackson Cit Pat: U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg works to name Jackson post office after fallen officer James Bonneau

December 3, 2013

JACKSON, MI – U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg introduced a House Resolution that would honor a Jackson police officer who died on duty in 2010.

Walberg, R-Tipton, has proposed the United States Post Office downtown Jackson, be designated as the "Officer James Bonneau Memorial Post Office."

"The Jackson community witnessed Officer James Bonneau's bravery and selflessness in 2010 when he gave his life in the line of duty," Walberg said in a statement. "It's a fitting tribute to ensure his sacrifice is remembered in our community."

While Jackson Police Chief Matthew Heins said the department is honored by Walberg's gesture, personally he has "mixed feelings."

"We are honored....but unfortunately he (Bonneau) had to die in the line of duty to receive the recognition," Heins said.

In 2011, U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow presented Bonneau's parents, Marc and Amy Bonneau, with the Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery.

Just after midnight on March 9, 2010, Bonneau was shot and killed while responding to a domestic disturbance. He was 26.

The resolution has been referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

In addition, state Reps. Earl Poleski and Mike Shirkey introduced a bill last year to name the new West Avenue bridge in memory of Bonneau.

Poleski did not know Bonneau, but said it would be appropriate to name a bridge in his honor, as recognition of his sacrifice.

Poleski said the legislation was passed by the Michigan House and now sits with the Senate Transportation Committee.

To read the original article at Cit Pat, please click here.