The White House recognized 15 public safety officers for outstanding service on Monday in a Medal of Valour ceremony. Attorney General Merrick Garland said two men who "made the ultimate sacrifice" were included. Officer Jason Shuping and Lieutenant Jared Lloyd were honored posthumulously for their sacrifice in service during the Jan. 6 insurrection. Shuping died in a hostage rescue situation while Lloyd died saving senior citizens in a fire.
Pres. Joe Biden said he was honored to present the awards after the ceremony was delayed during the Coronavirus pandemic. "You were the ones to run to help when everyone else ran away. . .the spine of your communiuties," he said describing their collective instincts for demonstrating bravery. He mentioned the ceremony for fallen police officers that was held the day before. He then paid tribute to all officers includin Buffalo police officer Aaron Slater who was slain the Buffalo grocery store massacre.
The president said people must work together to address the stain on the soul of America and that no one understand this more than the people sitting in front of him.