On the recordFebruary 4, 2021
I rise with a somber spirit and a heavy heart to be able to celebrate the law officers, the police officers, who stood their ground on behalf of this citadel of democracy on January 6. Police officers were beaten, sprayed with mace, hit with stun guns, and beaten with the United States flag and symbols of Nazism. You could see their valiant efforts, the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police with our own Capitol Police. They stood their ground, being beat continuously by insurrectionists and, of course, domestic terrorists. Madam Speaker, I offer today my deepest appreciation for them and sympathy for their brothers who were lost in the fight to preserve democracy. Yes, it was a fight because it was an attack on the United States Capitol. We owe them a great deal of gratitude and, as well, admiration. Madam Speaker, I intend to introduce a resolution that will honor all those who stood their ground and protected this place, Members of Congress, and others, and were in the midst of a battle where so many were hurt. I express my sympathy and concern for those still hospitalized. And I do say that it is important for us to say the simple words thank you. Thank you to the men and women of the United States Capitol Police, the Metropolitan Police Department, and, of course, our National Guard, and others. ____________________
