On the recordJuly 28, 1998
I rise to express my deep regret over the deaths of the two capitol police officers slain in the line of duty last Friday. Officers John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut were family men; each was married with three children. They also were dedicated professionals and, as shown by their final acts, heroes. Officer Chestnut confronted the lone gunman whose weapon set off the metal detector at the ``document door'' entrance to the main Capitol building. Officer Chestnut was fulfilling his duty to protect the people's building and the thousands upon thousands of Americans who visit their building, from violence. He paid for his dedication with his life. The gunman mortally wounded Officer Chestnut, then went into the building, firing his weapon and finding his way to the office of the distinguished Majority Whip, Congressman Tom DeLay. Congressman DeLay and his staff were in mortal danger from this gunman. I know that every one of them thanks God for the acts of Officer Gibson, whose bravery and perseverance brought down the gunman at the office door, even as Officer Gibson himself lay mortally wounded. Each of us who serves in the United States Senate depends on the bravery and dedication of men and women like Officers Gibson and Chestnut. Every day they put their lives on the line to protect the safety and well-being of Members of Congress and the public.
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