A Message from National President Patrick Yoes

I want to express my deepest condolences to the family of U.S. Capitol Police Officer Brian D. Sicknick. This brave and valiant officer was injured in the line of duty while defending Members of Congress, Congressional staff and ordinary citizens who were besieged in the U.S. Capitol Building. All of our members, as well as officers throughout the United States, grieve with his family. He will be missed, but never forgotten.

We remain horrified as we learn more about the disgraceful and repugnant acts of violence directed against our police officers on 6 January at the U.S. Capitol Building.  A violent mob was determined to enter the heart of our nation's democracy and threaten our Congress as it conducted the people's business. The flag of the United States literally became a weapon in the hands of these riotous individuals who used it to strike officers, break windows and pry open doors. Once these criminals breached the building, they went on to vandalize and damage this sacred space and Member's offices as well as imperiling the lives of elected officials and staff.

We also recognize the dedication and courage demonstrated by the men and women of the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, the U.S Park Police, the D.C. National Guard and other responding law enforcement agencies. You came to the aid of your brothers and sisters in need and we salute you.

The FOP strongly supports the rights of all Americans to peaceably assemble and their right to express themselves under the First Amendment. Not every attendee at the event last week was involved in the ensuing violence, but there is a line and many - too many - crossed it.

As a direct result of this criminal activity, five people lost their lives and now five families grieve the loss of their loved one. There is no justification - none - for the shameful actions of the people who resorted to violence and launched an attack on our Congress and the people it serves. Anyone who suggests that this tragedy was not an act of wanton violence or attempts to mitigate the consequences these criminals should face, is just plain wrong.

I am embarrassed and repulsed by the actions of my fellow Americans and I expect them to be held accountable for their crimes and be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.