Dear Neighbor,

I will never forget January 6.

I will never forget sheltering in my office—the door locked and the lights off—calling family members and praying for the best.

Nor will I forget the police officers and law enforcement agents who made sure that mob never reached our office door. These heroes on the front lines defended not only my colleagues and me, but our Capitol and our democracy.

These brave men and women deserve more than our thanks.

That is why I was proud to join my colleagues in awarding the Congressional Gold Medal—the highest honor Congress can give—to the U.S. Capitol Police, the Washington Metropolitan Police, and all the heroes of January 6.

By honoring them, we are showing gratitude for the many sacrifices they made in service to our country.

Thank you, once again, to all those who stood up for democracy and truth that day.

Sincerely,