Rep. Estes Leads Resolution on Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics
Washington,
March 5, 2026
Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) introduced a resolution, H. CON. RES. 76, that recognizes the visionary leadership of Chief Richard LaMunyon and the profound global impact of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. In 1979, Wichita Police Chief Richard LaMunyon was inspired by a heartfelt encounter with a Special Olympics athlete to champion the cause. Looking to eliminate financial barriers for participants, Chief and his officers created the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) in 1981. After demonstrating the program’s powerful impact on athletes to founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver, LaMunyon received her blessing to take the initiative global. With the 1983 endorsement of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the movement expanded rapidly. Now, the LETR spans all 50 states and over 25 countries, involving more than 150,000 officers, known honorably as “Guardians of the Flame,” annually. Today, LETR stands as the largest grassroots movement for Special Olympics, fostering community and stability for athletes everywhere. From a modest $300 raised during the first run in Wichita, the movement has now raised over $1.1 billion to support those with intellectual disabilities worldwide. Rep. Estes wrote a letter to President Trump recommending awarding the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Chief Richard LaMunyon of Wichita for his visionary leadership and extraordinary contributions to individuals with intellectual disabilities through the founding of the LETR for Special Olympics.
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