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Editorial | Testament to bravery

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Jan. 6, 2021:

… “Valor is defined as showing great courage in the face of danger, and there has been no better illustration of this than what the world witnessed from our law enforcement members that day. A mob of thousands launched a violent assault on the United States Capitol in an attempt to halt the counting of the electoral ballots. The mob’s sustained assault at the Capitol precipitated an equally unprecedented response, with an urgent request for MPD to come defend the Capitol. Without hesitation, our officers responded to the grounds to restore order and defend our country’s democratic process. We were confronted by individuals engaged in heinous behavior, destruction, and with the intent to cause harm to our officers and anyone else who stood in their way or who sought to proceed with Congress’ business. People from all over the world were watching this day unfold in front of them on television screens and through social media platforms. What they also saw was a police department that did not retreat, and though outnumbered, were determined to protect the Capitol.

“Exhausted and injured, our officers spent hours fending off violent acts aimed at them. They endured this treatment without wavering in their duty. They upheld their oath, to protect and serve, in the face of adverse circumstances. Their bravery is a testament to their commitment to our community and nation, and this courage is a reflection of their spirit.

“We are immensely proud of the work that MPD did that day to return the legislative body to the Capitol and restore order to the democratic process. Their actions were poignant and powerful. Our efforts to defend our nation’s capital against a violent insurrection to allow democracy to prevail provided a glimpse into the mantra of the Metropolitan Police Department: Excellence is Transferable.”

— Metropolitan Police Department, Annual Report, 2021

More than 1,000 law enforcement personnel deployed to the Capitol Grounds.

Fifteen “partner agencies” responded to assist.

It took five hours to secure the Capitol to make it safe for lawmakers to continue their counting of electoral ballots.

Approximately 140 officers from the Metropolitan Police Department and the United States Capitol Police incurred documented injuries.

Damages to the Capitol building and grounds and other costs exceeded $2,881,360.

There were more than 1,265 arrests including approximately 452 charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers or employees and approximately 123 charged with using a deadly or dangerous weapon or causing serious bodily injury to an officer.

There were nearly 800 guilty pleas, including four who pleaded guilty to a federal felony charge of seditious conspiracy.

That was then. This is now.

To those who upheld their oath to protect and serve, to those injured on the front line, to the families of those who died in the wake of service, we thank you for your sacrifice.

We got your six.

And neither we, nor history, will forget.

Breeze editorial