[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 10 (Tuesday, January 19, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Page S50]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING POLICE OFFICERS

  Mr. McCONNELL. Now, Mr. President, on a related matter, a great deal 
has already been said about the disgraceful events of January 6. More 
will be said in the weeks ahead.
  I understand the FBI has already made at least 100 arrests, and the 
Justice Department reports more than 275 persons under investigation--a 
number that is climbing fast. I want to commend the work of the 
Department to swiftly investigate and bring offenders to justice.
  As I have stated, January 6 saw failures of institutions, protocols, 
and planning. Those failures did not just leave Congress itself 
exposed; they also left the courageous men and women of the Capitol 
Police themselves in a totally untenable situation.
  So today, I want to reaffirm the huge respect and gratitude that I 
have--and I believe all Senators have--for the men and women of the 
U.S. Capitol Police who put their own safety on the line every single 
day that they clock in and stand guard.
  Neither the institution of Congress nor the American people will ever 
forget the bravery and the valor of Officer Brian Sicknick, who 
sacrificed himself to protect this place and those inside it.
  We will not forget our friend Officer Howard Liebengood.
  And we will never forget our debt to all the brave CP officers and 
their families.
  It is more than just comforting to come to work in a place protected 
by such fine men and women, at risk to themselves. It is also very 
humbling.
  We are also grateful to the local officers from DC, Virginia, and 
Maryland, to Federal law enforcement officers, the National Guard, the 
Secret Service, and all the other professionals who helped subdue the 
criminals and secure the Capitol on the 6th and are working together to 
protect peace and order this week.
  Tomorrow, a new President and Vice President will swear their oaths 
of office. They will also do so safely and securely because so many 
brave men and women have sworn their own oaths to support and defend 
our Constitution.
  We salute you all.

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