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U.S. Rep. Williams of Austin, aide awarded medals after June shooting attack

November 9, 2017

U.S. Rep. Roger Williams of Austin and his aide, Zack Barth – survivors of a shooting attack outside Washington, D.C., last June – were each awarded a Medal of Merit by U.S. Capitol Police Chief Matthew Verderosa on Thursday.

Authorities say James Hodgkinson opened fire on several members of congress, including four Texas lawmakers, and their staff during baseball practice at an Alexandria, Va., ballpark.

Williams, the coach of the Republican Congressional Baseball Team, was injured during the attack along with Barth, who was shot in the leg.

"I am humbled to have received this recognition on behalf of all of my teammates," Williams said in a statement. "June 14 is a day none of us will ever forget, and in that moment, we became bonded as brothers for a lifetime."

Williams also noted "the brave heroism from USCP Special Agents David Bailey and Crystal Griner, and Alexandria Police Department Officers Nicole Battaglia, Alexander Jensen and Kevin Jobe."

"The entire team is extremely grateful for their valor that day and these officers will always hold a special place in my heart," Williams said.

The Capitol Police and Alexandria police officers were all awarded with the Medal of Honor, the Capitol Police's highest award.