This year marked the 13th anniversary of the brutal rampage that took the lives of two U.S. Capitol Police Officers: Detective John Gibson and Officer Jacob Chestnut.
On July 24, 1998, Officer Chestnut and Detective Gibson were guarding the East entrance of the Capitol building. At approximately 3:40 pm, a gunman attempted to force himself past the officers. When Officer Chestnut denied him entry by obstructing his path, the deranged gunman fatally shot him at point-blank range. Detective Gibson warned those nearby to seek cover then chased the gunman down the hallway. They exchanged fire and one of the rounds hit Detective Gibson, who succumbed to his serious gunshot wounds.
A plaque has been placed in the U.S. Capitol to pay tribute to their service and sacrifice, and their names are engraved on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.
On Monday, both U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid began their remarks on the floor of the U.S. Senate memorializing Detective Gibson and Officer Chestnut by laying a wreath and observing a moment of silence to pay tribute to the courageous officers.
Both Detective Gibson and Officer Chestnut were 18-year law enforcement veterans. Their dedication to service and their commitment to safeguarding the U.S. Capitol and the citizens inside will never be forgotten.
Citizens across America should take a moment out of their busy days to remember these two valiant individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice on July 24, 1998.
No comments:
Post a Comment