Pelosi introduces bill to give Congressional highest honor to the police who protected the Capitol during the insurgency

by



[ad_1]

“The exceptional heroism and patriotism of our heroes deserves and demands our deepest appreciation,” Pelosi said in a press release outlining the legislation.

The bill comes at the same time House members are in the Senate, arguing in the second impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump. The former president was impeached by the House last month on incitement to insurgency for his comments and actions leading up to the insurgency.

In introducing the bill, Pelosi reflected on the officers whose lives were lost and the countless others injured in the riot. The speaker also highlighted the heroism displayed by Agent Eugene Goodman, who not only kept the violent Senate crowd away but also specifically directed Republican Senator from Utah Mitt Romney to safety, according to a new video. presented during the impeachment trial.

“The sacrifice of heroes, including Officer Brian Sicknick, Officer Howard Liebengood, Officer (MPD) Jeffrey Smith, and those who were wounded, as well as the courage of Officer Eugene Goodman, exemplify patriotism and the commitment of the Capitol’s police officers, and those of other law enforcement agencies, to risk their lives in the service of our country, ”we read in the legislation.
The legislation also recognizes that several Americans died as a result of the violent attack, and more than 140 law enforcement officers sustained physical injuries, including 15 hospitalized officers. Five people died as a direct result of the insurgency – Sicknick, who died on January 7 from injuries sustained in the attack; Trump supporter Ashli ​​Babbitt, who was shot and killed by a policeman in the Capitol as he attempted to break into the President’s Lobby just outside the House; and three others who died of a medical emergency during the riot. Two other members of the security forces present that day committed suicide in the days following the attack.

USCP interim chief Yogananda Pittman welcomed Pelosi’s announcement of the legislation in a press release.

“To recognize the bravery of our police officers at a time when they are going through tremendous emotions and exhaustion is a gift,” said Pittman. “We have too many heroes to count and we are honored that Congress can recognize them in this way. From the cards and letters of support we have received from all over this great country to this incredible award, we are deeply honored and grateful. “

Once the medals are awarded, the law calls for the three medals to be divided, with one on display at the United States Capitol Police Headquarters, one at the DC Metropolitan Police Department, and one at the Smithsonian.

Pelosi first spoke about the legislation at his weekly press conference earlier Thursday.

“The Capitol Police Department that day is a credit to our democracy,” Pelosi told reporters. “Their acceptance of this award gives luster to this medal.”

[ad_2]

Source link