Biendl: ‘Washingtonian through and through’

Here is the full text of Gov. Chris Gregoire’s comments at Tuesday’s memorial for Jayme Biendl:

“On behalf of the state of Washington, I offer condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer Jayme Biendl.

“I want you to know that an entire state joins us here today in mourning your loss. While we’ve lost a member of the state family, you’ve lost a loved one. She made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

“To the law enforcement community here today, Jayme’s colleagues at the Department of Corrections, and all who wear the uniform — thank you for being here to honor a fellow officer.

“While the pain of her loss cannot be erased, your presence helps lift a grieving family and a grieving community.

“Jayme was a Washingtonian through and through. In the past week we’ve learned about this courageous and tough young woman from Granite Falls. She grew up swimming in Washington’s rivers and riding through Washington’s woods.”At the age of 26, Jayme joined the Department of Corrections, and quickly became an officer — sworn to maintain order in one of the toughest environments possible.

“Officer Biendl embodied respect. She embodied faith.

“She commanded respect through her integrity, her fair treatment of others, and her firm command. And she was supported by faith – her faith in her friends, family and co-workers.

“Today we must continue to rely on that faith. We must have faith in one another. Her family and friends must rely on one another during the days and months ahead.

“Our loss is made all the more difficult because of how Jayme was taken from us. It was all the more painful for occurring in a sacred place.

“Today, we must offer Jayme the respect she earned. We must hold her memory in our hearts.

“We must summon the same courage Officer Biendl did, and commit ourselves to ensuring the safety of all our officers, even as they protect us.

“With time our pain will lessen, but our memory of a daughter, a sister, a partner, and a friend and a co-worker will never diminish.

“Our officers honor her each day by continuing to serve and by continuing to protect. And we honor her memory by honoring those who still serve.

“On behalf of all of Washington, I thank Officer Biendl and I thank her family for sharing her with us.

“You forever have our gratitude.

May God bless Jayme. May God bless her family and friends. And may God bless Washington.”