Washington, DC - Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police, applauded the news that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. signed H.R. 3325 into law, awarding Congressional Gold Medals to the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) and the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police (MPD) officers for their heroic actions on January 6, 2021, in defense of the U.S. Capitol and the people inside.

“The valiant actions of the men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police and the D.C. Metropolitan Police on January 6 must never be forgotten,” said Yoes. “The entire world watched the horrific events unfold as a violent mob attacked the very heart of our American democracy. On that tragic day, we witnessed the heroic actions of the officers as they swiftly responded to defend the U.S. Capitol complex and protect the Vice President, Members of Congress, and staff. These officers undoubtedly answered the call of duty, and we are immensely proud of them and grateful for their service. History will not forget their gallantry and the sacrifices they made in defense of our Capitol—ultimately preserving our way of life.”

The enactment of this legislation, which was introduced by Representative Nancy P. Pelosi (D-CA), Speaker of the House, and unanimously passed the U.S. Senate, recognizes and honors the USCP and MPD officers who ran towards the looming danger and defended the U.S. Capitol from a violent mob on January 6, 2021. Congressional Gold Medals will be provided to the USCP, the MPD, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Architect of the Capitol to commemorate this heroism.

“We were reminded on January 6 that without the protection afforded to us by the brave men and women in blue, our society cannot function,” said Yoes. “In a time where too many would prefer to demonize America’s law enforcement officers, I thank Congress for passing this legislation and President Biden for signing it into law. It is important to recognize the tremendous heroism and bravery displayed by the USCP and MPD officers. The actions of the USCP and MPD were heroic, and no patriotic American would deem their actions anything short of that. As we have said numerous times since the moment we witnessed our Capitol come under attack, the FOP strongly condemns those who participated in the violent assaults, looting, and trespassing. Since they were first made on January 6, we remain steadfast in our calls for those who violated the law to be arrested, charged, and prosecuted to the fullest extent. The FOP will continue to offer our support, gratitude, and love for all of our brothers and sisters in law enforcement who successfully fought off the rioters, and we will be with them as they grieve and recover, however long that may take.”