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    Eugene Goodman to be awarded the “Congressional Gold Medal” for his bravery during the Capitol riots

    Senators have voted unanimously to award Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman a Congressional Gold Medal. 

    Goodman played an integral role in protecting lawmakers from the violent riots in Washington, D.C. that left five people dead on Jan. 6. On Friday, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer paid tribute to the officer and asked the Senate to pass legislation to award him the Gold Medal — Congress’ highest honor.

    “In the weeks after the attack on January the sixth, the world learned about the incredible bravery of Officer Goodman on that fateful day,” Schumer said, according to CNN, as his fellow lawmakers stood to applaud Goodman, who was in the room.

    “I think we can all agree that Eugene Goodman deserves the highest honor Congress can bestow,” Schumer added.

    Eugene Goodman to be awarded the “Congressional Gold Medal” for his bravery during the Capitol riots

    “In the face of lawlessness, the officers of the U.S. Capitol lived out the fullest sense of their oaths,” Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said, The Washington Postreported. “If not for the quick thinking and bravery of Officer Eugene Goodman in particular, people in this chamber may not have escaped that day unharmed.”

    In a previous statement, USCP Acting Chief Yogananda Pittman said, “To have our police officers’ bravery acknowledged at a time when they’re experiencing tremendous emotions and exhaustion is a gift. We have too many heroes to count and we are humbled Congress may recognize them in this way. From the cards and letters of support we’ve received from around this great country to this incredible award, we are deeply humbled and appreciative.”

    The award comes days after Democrats released never-before-seen footage of Goodman leading Sen. Mitt Romney away from the pro-Donald Trump rioters who had breached the building. 

    House impeachment manager Stacey Plaskett introduced the video during Trump’s second impeachment trial, which began after the former president was charged by the House with inciting an insurrection. 

    Plaskett explained: “In this security footage, you can see Officer Goodman running to respond to the initial breach. Officer Goodman passes Sen. Mitt Romney and directs him to turn around in order to get to safety.”

    By People Mag