Nancy Pelosi commemorates fallen officer Brian Sicknick for his heroism during Capitol riots in moving tribute

‘With your permission, may we be worthy to carry Brian in our hearts’

Speaker Nancy Pelosi paid tribute to fallen United States Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick on Wednesday as he was lying in honour at the Capitol, thanking him for his service and ultimate sacrifice during the deadly attacks on Congress last month.

The speaker delivered the moving tribute during a ceremony for Mr Sicknick, who died as a result of his injuries sustained during the Capitol riots on 6 January while Congress was convening to certify the results of the 2020 elections.

“It is my official and sad honour to welcome Officer Brian Sicknick and many who loved, respected and were protected by him, to the United States Capitol Rotunda for recognition of his life,” Ms Pelosi said. “Each day, when members enter the Capitol, this temple of democracy, we will remember his sacrifice."

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Ms Pelosi heralded the late officer as a “patriotic” American who previously served in the New Jersey National Guard and was deployed twice, while thanking his family for allowing Congress to honour his life and service.

“Our promise to Brian’s family is that we will never forget his sacrifice,” she said. “We must be vigilant … we will never forget.”

Speaking to Mr Sicknick’s family, she added: “With your permission, may we be worthy to carry Brian in our hearts.”

Mr Sicknick, whose family and friends said was a “dependable” and humble man who loved his job, reportedly suffered a stroke after he was pepper sprayed and collapsed during the riots. His family has called on the media and American public not to politicise his death — though many have since labelled the attacks an act of domestic terrorism perpetrated by pro-Trump extremists.

“Please honor Brian’s life and service and respect our privacy while we move forward in doing the same,” the family said in a statement issued on Friday. “Brian is a hero and that is what we would like people to remember.”

Mr Sicknick’s body arrived in the Capitol Rotunda on Tuesday evening, when a ceremonial arrival was held along with a viewing period for members of the Capitol Police.

The congressional ceremony was held on Wednesday, followed by a burial proceeding at Arlington National Cemetery.