Recognizing the visionary leadership of Chief Richard LaMunyon and the profound global impact of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.

This concurrent resolution aims to recognize the visionary leadership of Chief Richard LaMunyon and the profound global impact of the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics . Chief LaMunyon initiated the LETR in 1981 after being inspired by the joy of Special Olympics athletes and seeking to alleviate financial burdens on their families. What began as a local "Flame of Hope" run in Wichita, Kansas, quickly gained the blessing of Eunice Kennedy Shriver and evolved into the largest grassroots movement supporting Special Olympics worldwide. The LETR now involves over 150,000 law enforcement officers across 50 U.S. states, all Canadian provinces, and more than 25 other countries, fostering community inclusion. Collectively, this movement has raised over $1.1 billion since its inception to support individuals with intellectual disabilities, providing a "roaring flame of stability" to the Special Olympics movement.