Residents of Garland already knew that of the best police officers in the nation are right here, and now, the rest of the country knows it as well.
Gregory Stevens, the police officer who shot two terrorists last year when they attempted to launch an attack at the Curtis Culwell Center during the Draw the Prophet contest, received the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor from President Barack Obama Monday, May 16.
President Obama presented Medals of Valor to 13 police officers from around the country at the White House ceremony that was held during National Police Week.
The Public Safety Officer Medal of Honor was established by President Bill Clinton in 2000 and is the highest honor for law enforcement.
The May 14, 2015, attack occurred when Elton Simpson and Nadir Soofi drove their vehicle near the entrance of the event center and opened fire on unarmed Garland ISD Security Officer Bruce Joiner. Fortunately, the security officer was not seriously injured.
It was at that time that Stevens shot and killed both gunmen. In doing so, Stevens saved the lives of at least 200 event attendees as the gunmen’s plan was to enter the event center and attack the participants.
“Had it not been for their [medal recipients] bravery we likely would have lost a lot of people… mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, friends and loved ones,” President Obama said during the ceremony.
Senator Ted Cruz congratulated Stevens and expressed gratitude for his bravery in a written statement.
“Officer Stevens heroically thwarted the attack, preventing what could have been a terrible loss of life,” Sen. Cruz said. “Today, in honor and recognition of his extraordinary courage and decisiveness, Officer Stevens deservedly received the Medal of Valor. I salute Officer Stevens for his dutiful service, and I remain forever grateful for his commitment to keep Texas safe.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbett issued the following statement:
“On behalf of the State of Texas, I would like to congratulate Officer Stevens on receiving the Medal of Valor and for displaying extraordinary courage in the line of duty,” said Governor Abbott. “Officer Stevens’ decisive action prevented two terrorists from carrying out horrific attacks on Texas soil, and our state and nation will forever be indebted to him for his service and bravery.”