Local News

US Capitol officer hailed a hero for actions during riot served at Ft Bragg, to receive high honor

A Capitol police officer hailed as a hero for single-handedly trying to hold off rioters storming the U.S. Capitol last week served at Fort Bragg.

Posted Updated

By
Lena Tillett
, WRAL anchor/reporter
FORT BRAGG, N.C. — A Capitol police officer hailed as a hero for single-handedly trying to hold off rioters storming the U.S. Capitol last week served at Fort Bragg.

In a viral video, Officer Eugene Goodman is seen attempting to push back protesters as they forced their way inside.

Goodman is an Iraq combat veteran, who served in the XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg.

"He represents the values of the XVIII Airborne, and he’s a soldier for life," Col. Joe Buccino, a public affairs officer with Fort Bragg, said.

During tense moments last week when a mob of protesters forced their way inside the U.S. Capitol, Goodman led them away from the Senate chamber, likely saving lives.

"We’re proud of him, and we’re proud that he served here," Buccino said.

The XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg highlighted Goodman's service on Twitter.

Goodman will soon be formally honored for his bravery. Three U.S. representatives introduced a bipartisan bill to award him with the Congressional Gold Medal for his quick actions, buying security time to evacuate the Senate.

"It is a great story, and a story that maybe people in the country need to hear right now," Buccino said.

 Credits 

Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.