87R11893 BK-D
By: Raymond H.R. No. 216
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, On January 6, 2021, the United States of America
witnessed one of the most disturbing episodes in its history, when a
mob of thousands of rioters breached the U.S. Capitol and unleashed
violence, mayhem, and lawlessness at the seat of our nation's
government; and
WHEREAS, The chaotic events took place over several hours, as
insurrectionists pushed through barriers along the perimeter of the
Capitol, overwhelmed Capitol Police officers, and chanted menacing
slogans, including terroristic threats against elected officials;
those who perpetrated the attack, some of whom armed themselves
with tasers, tire irons, pepper spray, and makeshift weapons, did
so with the intent to disrupt the electoral process and the peaceful
transition of executive power, a bedrock principle of American
democracy; and
WHEREAS, The U.S. Capitol Police are tasked with securing and
protecting the sacred halls of Congress and ensuring the safety of
all legislators, staff, and visitors who occupy the Capitol
grounds; on January 6, Capitol Police officers found themselves
outnumbered against an increasingly hostile and violent throng of
extremists, who engaged in acts of vandalism and looting inside the
Capitol and assaulted law enforcement personnel who stood in their
way; and
WHEREAS, Capitol Police officers valiantly risked their
lives to repel rioters who were attempting to infiltrate the
chambers of Congress and do harm to the lawmakers who were sheltered
in place; around 140 officers were hurt during the attack and
several later lost their lives; Capitol Police officer Eugene
Goodman, who distracted and led rioters away from the Senate
chamber, was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the legislative
branch's most distinguished civilian honor, by a unanimous senate
vote; and
WHEREAS, Were it not for the courageous officers who stood
their ground on that day, the shocking events of January 6 could
have resulted in far greater destruction and loss of life, and they
are deserving of our highest praise for their heroism in service to
their country; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 87th Texas
Legislature hereby honor the law enforcement officers who defended
the United States Capitol during the January 6 insurrection and
extend sincere gratitude to the entire U.S. Capitol Police force as
it continues its vital work to safeguard the premises of our
nation's Capitol.