Maxwell Frost: “On Friday afternoon, July 24, 1998, tragedy struck the Nation's Capitol. A lone gunman burst through an entrance of the…”

“On Friday afternoon, July 24, 1998, tragedy struck the Nation's Capitol. A lone gunman burst through an entrance of the Capitol building, fatally wounding two Capitol Police officers who saved the lives of so many through their own bravery. Two of the finest members of our Capitol Hill family were shot and killed in the line of duty. Officer Chestnut and Special Agent Gibson gave their lives defending Congress and its visitors from a gunman who savagely discharged his weapon on anyone who stepped in his way. Officer Chestnut was the first to be shot as he vigilantly guarded his post. After the gunman shot and wounded a fleeing tourist, he crashed into Majority Whip DeLay's office, shooting and mortally wounding Special Agent Gibson. The actions of this man were reprehensible, but they were also the actions of a very disturbed person. Officers Gibson and Chestnut displayed a heroism and bravery which we should all be proud and thankful for as Americans and members of the Capitol Hill family. Officers Gibson and Chestnut gave their lives in order to save the lives of so many others who were in harm's way. My thoughts and prayers go out to both families as well as to the United States Capitol Police, as I am sure the past few days have been very trying times. It is a comforting feeling to know that we are all being guarded by such a competent, dedicated, and brave group of officers.”