US Embassy flies flag half-mast to honour fallen police officers in Capitol riot

The US flag currently is flying at half-mast at the US Embassy in Port of Spain, as a sign of respect for two police officers who were killed during last week’s riots in the US Capitol.

The US flag currently is flying at half-mast at the US Embassy in Port of Spain, as a sign of respect for two police officers who were killed during last week’s riots in the US Capitol.

In a brief social media post, which features a photo of the flag flying at half-mast, the US Embassy explained the reason for the demonstration:

“As a sign of respect for the service and sacrifice of U.S. Capitol Police Officers Brian D. Sicknick and Howard Liebengood, and all Capitol Police Officers and law enforcement across the U.S., we join in flying the flag at half-staff until sunset, January 13, 2021,” the US Embassy statement read.

Brian D. Sicknick died on Thursday evening (January 7th) from injuries sustained while on duty during the assault on the Capitol.  A statement from the US Capitol Police said 42-year-old Sicknick collapsed when he returned to his division office.  He was taken to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.  Reports are that he was on life support before he passed away.  His death is being investigated as a possible homicide by the Metropolitan Police Department’s homicide Branch.

Howard Liebengood, a 15-year veteran of the Capitol Police force, was assigned to the Senate Division.  The 51-year-old died by suicide on Saturday 9 January 2021.

On Wednesday 6 January 2021, rioters wielding Confederate flags stormed the US Capitol, leaving five people dead, including a Capitol Police officer.

In response to Wednesday’s security breach at the Capitol, authorities have arrested dozens of people connected to the unrest after pro-Trump rioters charged through barricades, assaulted police officers and shattered windows.

CNN is reporting today that there have been increased calls for new protests in Washington, DC, and states across the country, even as President-Elect Joe Biden prepares for his inauguration into office on Wednesday 20 January 2021.

Mr Biden has re-stated his intention to be inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on the steps of Capital Building, despite the recent riots, according to a report in the Washington Post, yesterday.

“Though changes could still be made, as of last week Biden’s inauguration and swearing-in were set to take place on the west front of the U.S. Capitol,” the Washington Post report said.

CNN is reporting that law enforcement across the country—and especially in Washington DC—are bracing for more possible violence in the coming days leading up to inauguration.

Authorities reportedly are preparing for additional personnel to help secure the nation’s capital. A Department of Homeland Security official reportedly told CNN that the breach of the Capitol will sharpen the response and planning for inauguration.