The Senate awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to Eugene Goodman on Friday for his actions as a Capitol Police officer during the violent breach of the United States Capitol on January 6.
Goodman, who is currently serving as the Senate’s deputy arms sergeant, was hailed as a hero after leading the violent crowd of protesters away from the Senate Chamber after the building attack. Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer (DN.Y.) has proposed to award the medal, a rare honor and the highest civilian medal that Congress can award, at the end of a hearing in the second impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump.
“In the weeks after the January 6 attacks, the world learned about Officer Goodman’s incredible, incredible bravery on that fateful day,” said Schumer. “In this trial, we saw a new video, a powerful video showing calm under pressure, his courage in doing his duty, his vision in the midst of chaos and his willingness to become a target of the mob’s fury so that others can reach safety. “
“Officer Goodman is in the chamber tonight,” continued Schumer. “Officer Goodman, thank you.”
Goodman remained stoic as a standing ovation broke out as he listened from the back of the chamber, where he was performing his duties as a sergeant-at-arms. He joined in a round of applause when Schumer noted that Goodman “was not alone that day” while praising other “heroic conduct” of the Capitol Police, the DC Metropolitan Police and the SWAT teams present on January 6.
“If it weren’t for Officer Eugene Goodman’s quick thinking and bravery in particular, the people in this chamber could not have escaped unscathed that day,” added Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.). “Officer Goodman’s actions reflect a deep personal commitment to duty and have brought even greater distinction to all his brave brothers and sisters in uniform.”
“I am proud that the senator is taking this step forward, recognizing his heroism with the greatest honor that we can bestow,” continued McConnell.
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The Senate then awarded Goodman the medal by unanimous consent. Senators gathered around Goodman to congratulate him after the impeachment session, where Trump was accused of inciting violations, was postponed.
Several senators exchanged fist and elbow blows with Goodman. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) And Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) saluted Goodman, a veteran military colleague. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Ct.) Told reporters it was “a very good way to end the night”, saying the unanimous decision was “a good reminder that we can still get together on important things”.
The video shown during the trial earlier this week showed Goodman helping Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah) narrowly avoid a violent gang of protesters coming towards him after the rape, possibly saving the senator’s life. Romney told reporters on Thursday that his family was unaware of how close he was to “real danger” and was “surprised and very, very grateful to Officer Goodman”.
“Having the bravery of our policemen recognized at a time when they are experiencing tremendous emotions and exhaustion is a gift,” Capitol Chief of Police Yogananda Pittman said in a statement on Thursday after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. ) announced that it planned to present a bill to award the medal to the police officers who protected the Capitol.
“We have a lot of heroes to tell and we are humbled that Congress recognizes them that way,” added Pittman. “For the cards and letters of support we received from all over this great country up to this incredible award, we are deeply humbled and grateful.”
Newsweek contacted the Capitol Police for additional comments.