Newly signed legislation honors South River native and fallen U.S. Capitol Police officer
Governor Phil Murphy signed Assembly Joint Resolution 215 (AJR215) into law, formally designating July 30 of each year as Brian Sicknick Day in New Jersey. Sponsored by Assemblymen Robert Karabinchak and Sterley Stanley, the legislation honors Brian Sicknick, a South River native who served in the New Jersey Air National Guard and spent more than 12 years with the United States Capitol Police, including service in the First Responder’s Unit.
According to the U.S. Capitol Police, Officer Sicknick responded to the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, where he was assaulted while defending Congress. He later suffered two strokes and died the following night.
“Designating Brian Sicknick Day ensures that New Jersey formally recognizes the life, service, and sacrifice of a son of our state who answered the call to protect others,” said Assemblyman Karabinchak. “This designation ensures his legacy will always be remembered.”
“Officer Brian Sicknick represented the very best of public service,” said Assemblyman Stanley. “By setting aside this day each year, we ensure that the memory of his service is never forgotten and reaffirm our commitment to honoring those who lost their lives fulfilling their duty to protect others.”
Following the bill signing, Governor Murphy, Speaker Craig J. Coughlin and Assemblymen Joe Danielsen, Karabinchak and Stanley participated in a wreath placement ceremony in Officer Sicknick’s honor.
“A life dedicated to service and country reminds us that the safety and stability we count on never happens by accident, it comes from those who never lose sight of their responsibility to the people around them,” said Speaker Coughlin. “Officer Brian Sicknick showed up, did his duty, and stood firm when our democracy needed defending. A proud son of New Jersey, shaped by his family, his community, and his commitment to serving others, he will forever be remembered and deeply missed by his home state and by all who loved him.”
“Officer Brian Sicknick answered the call to serve with courage and dedication,” said Assemblyman Danielsen (D-Middlesex, Somerset). “Honoring him with this designation is a meaningful way to ensure that future generations remember his service and the sacrifices made by those who protect others.”
Last year, Officer Sicknick’s brother—Craig Sicknick—delivered remarks on the General Assembly floor after receiving a ceremonial resolution honoring Officer Sicknick’s life and service.