Attorney General’s Awards: Celebration of Excellence and Public Service
A Moment of Appreciation:
Attorney General Merrick Garland opens the Combined 70th & 71st Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony with a beaming smile and heartfelt gratitude.
He highlights the event as a chance to celebrate outstanding work and reflect on the department’s core mission – upholding the rule of law, protecting our nation, and safeguarding civil rights.
Department of Justice Spotlight:
Garland playfully compares the ceremony to the Oscars, with a better band and hopefully a funnier host.
He acknowledges the extended runtime due to the double-sized batch of awards, but assures everyone of the importance of recognizing over 600 individuals for their exceptional contributions.
Extraordinary Contributions, Impactful Results:
The Attorney General emphasizes the diverse roles and profound impact of the honorees.
Attorneys, investigators, law enforcement officers, victim advocates, and support staff – each has made remarkable sacrifices and strengthened the department’s legacy.
Their exceptional leadership, heroism, and dedication have made communities safer, secured justice for the vulnerable, protected consumers, and improved the Department of Justice as a whole.
Dedication Beyond Recognition:
Garland acknowledges the challenges faced by DOJ employees, who often encounter our nation’s greatest dangers and witness others in moments of crisis.
He extends his profound thanks to every department member for their dedicated service, and especially to their families for the unwavering support that enables their crucial work.
Exemplifying Public Service:
The awards serve as a symbol of appreciation for those who go above and beyond.
No accolade can fully capture the courage and commitment these individuals demonstrate daily.
Garland expresses his immense pride in working alongside them and the honor he feels for their unwavering dedication to the cause of justice.
Closing with Gratitude:
Concluding the speech, Garland hands the reins to the Assistant Attorney General for Administration, leaving the audience inspired by the stories of exceptional service and the unwavering commitment to a mission that shapes our nation.