Mr. President, today Capitol Police Officer Jacob J. Chestnut was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery, concluding a week that has saddened and shocked every American and touched the hearts of millions of people around the world. I rise to express my profound sorrow over the death of Officer Chestnut and Detective John Gibson, and to extend my sympathy to the families, friends, and fellow officers of these two brave men. The tremendous outpouring of grief and respect we have experienced and witnessed during the Congressional ceremony and honors on Tuesday, and in the requiem services for Detective Gibson and Officer Chestnut over the past two days are fitting tribute to the courage and selfless sacrifice of these fallen heroes.

The deaths of Officer Chestnut and Detective Gibson, killed in the line of duty as they defended all of us who are privileged to work and visit the Capitol, is a testament to the fidelity and valor of these men, as well as a reminder of the exceptional bravery and courage of the men and women of the Capitol Police who protect the Capitol complex and grounds. We are fortunate to have these officers on the job, protecting all of us, willing to confront the dangers and violence that too often afflict our world today, so that our Capitol can remain open and accessible to the public. The professionalism, pride, and good-natured courtesy which these officers bring to their duties, day in and day out, serves our democracy by keeping the Capitol open to the people and safeguarding, with their lives if necessary, the freedom and liberty we cherish.

On the Capitol dome, looking across the Capital City, stands the Statue of Freedom Triumphant in War and Peace, an emblem of democracy and hope, a symbol of America's promise that every citizen has the freedom and opportunity to realize their God-given potential. In her right hand Freedom holds an olive branch, in her left, a sword, a reminder that the preservation of freedom and democracy often requires sacrifice.

Over the course of our history, the Capitol has witnessed stirring oratory and the passage of landmark legislation which have inspired us, strengthened our nation, restored hope, preserved our Republic, and maintained our resolve. The heroic actions of Officer Chestnut and Officer Gibson, who acted to preserve and protect life without regard to their own safety, bonds deeds to the ideals and values we celebrate and honor here at the heart of our democracy. The President said it best when he stated that the actions of these brave men sanctified the Capitol. May God bring comfort and peace to the families, friends, and colleagues of Detective John Gibson and Officer Jacob Chestnut.