Joe Donnelly: “today, I wish to recognize and honor the extraordinary service and ultimate sacrifice of Indianapolis Metropolitan…”

“today, I wish to recognize and honor the extraordinary service and ultimate sacrifice of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Officer Rod Bradway. Dedicated, loyal, and above all compassionate to those in need, Officer Bradway had served with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, IMPD, since 2007. On Friday, September 20, 2013, Officer Bradway responded to a domestic disturbance call at Eagle Pointe Apartments in Indianapolis. Upon arriving, he heard a woman screaming for help from inside her apartment, where she was being held against her will. Officer Bradway quickly called for backup, and without hesitation, forced his way into the apartment. Upon entering, he was immediately shot twice by a perpetrator who waited in ambush. Although severely wounded, Bradway returned fire and injured the shooter before assisting officers arrived. This courageous effort disabled the shooter, avoiding a second ambush. In addition, the woman whom Officer Bradway was rushing to aid, along with her 10-month-old child, emerged safely, largely due to his immediate response and selfless action. Sadly, despite the best efforts of his fellow officers, EMTs, and medical personnel, Officer Bradway, 41, succumbed to his wounds. ``When I heard he was the first in, I wasn't surprised,'' said Melissa Watkins, a friend and colleague. According to many of his peers and IMPD family members, Officer Bradway always wanted to be the first through the door, ready to help.…”