Cardin, Van Hollen lead effort to present heroic Capitol Police officer with highest congressional honor

Cardin, Van Hollen lead effort to present heroic Capitol Police officer with highest congressional honor

January 23rd, 2021 by WCBC Radio

Maryland Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin are among the sponsors of bipartisan legislation to award U.S. Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman the Congressional Gold Medal. WBAL reports the Marylander drew national praise for his heroic actions during the Capitol riot on Jan. 6. Standing alone, Goodman led a violent mob away from an unguarded Senate chamber.

At the presidential inauguration on Wednesday, Goodman served as an honorary deputy Senate sergeant at arms, escorting Vice President Kamala Harris.

Van Hollen said he spoke to Goodman last week to thank him for his bravery.

"Maryland is proud to call him one of our own, and I’m honored to introduce this bipartisan bill to recognize his bravery," Van Hollen said in a statement.