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Remembering U.S. Capitol OfficersWashingtonpost.comWednesday, July 29, 1998
Capitol Police officers John M. Gibson, left, and Jacob J. Chestnut were killed during the shooting at the U.S. Capitol. Your condolences are posted below. You may continue to send your condolences. Check back for more postings.
Two men, doing their jobs, killed by a sick man. Mourned by family and friends that include many grateful citizens of this country.
My brother in law, Eric Belknap, is a Capitol Policeman and knew J.J. Chestnut well. Our family is so very proud of the sacrificial work of the Capitol Police and we grieve with the families of the fallen officers. Thank you, Chestnut and Gibson families, for your sacrifice. You have provided modern day heroes for our children to look up to and respect.
To The Families of Officers Chestnut and Gibson:
Please accept my condolences on your tragic loss.
No one can ever take the place of your loved ones;
and I know that you miss them terribly.
Please know that those of us across America
applaud their bravery and their courage in the
face of danger. No doubt many other lives would
have been lost had they not performed their
duties quickly and courageously.
Officers Chestnut and Gibson are role
models for America's youth. Their bravery,
their devotion to their duty, and their willing-
ness to lay down their lives to save the lives
of others make them men to which parents across
America can point and say to their children,
"You would do well do be like those men--they
are truly great Americans."
Again, please accept my sincerest sympathy and
my condolences.
I heart is heavy and my eyes are full of tears.
I cannot imagine how it must be for you. I can
only hope and pray that someday His peace will
fill you hearts and make this load an easier one
to bear.
May His angels watch over you always.
Condolences to the families and friends of Officers Chestnut and Gibson.
The sickening disregard for life needs to be answered with strict and uncompromising laws pertaining to sentencing and parole... regardless of so-called "deterrent" studies.
And as for those who are expressing concern for 'restriction of freedom'- we need to err on the side of caution.
Let's look at serious legislation in the face of yet another disgraceful crime.
May GOD watch of the families and friends of these two braves souls who are now with the Lord. No words can express my deepest sorrows for ALL the Families involved. May God Bless Us All!!
To the Gibson and Chestnut families and all who mourn their ultimate sacrifice: No words however eloquent can compensate for the loss of these the bravest of men. Police work hard without fanfare for that is how they thrive. Take some comfort in knowing that these men died for us all and are now in a pleasant place. The Lord looks after those we love the most and this final act of selflessness came directly from love. Rest peacefully, my brothers, and one day we will join you in celebration. May God bless.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Thank you both for protecting our country with honor!
May God Bless You During This Difficult Period. As you grieve know that the country grieves with you. Take comfort in the fact that you had the privilege of knowing and the honor of having "true heroes" in your mist. Have faith that their deaths were not in vain because the world has gained some knowledge from their passing. May God Keep You Safe.
Our nation owes its thanks to Officers Chestnut and Gibson; and our hearts go out to their families in their loss and grief. May God console them and give them comfort.
I can only imagine the pain you are suffering at this time of such great loss. As the mother-in-law of a State Trooper, I know that the fear is always there.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
From our family to the families of both officers, John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut. Our deepest sympathy for the loss of your husbands, fathers and friends. They truly are "real" heroes who risked their lives to protect our country without thinking twice about the consequences. Our thoughts are with you!
To the families of the slain men, you are in our thoughts.
THE TWO OFFICERS HONORED IN THE GREAT ROTUNDA TODAY WILL NOT BE FORGOTTON. THEY WERE DONING THEIR JOBS, JUST LIKE ANY OTHER JOB BY FELLOW OFFICERS IN OUR CAPITOL. THIS IS A VERY SAD DAY FOR THE FAMILIES AND FOR OUR NATION.
THE PRICE OF FREEDOM IS VERY HIGH AND SHOULD NEVER BE TAKEN FOR GRANTED BY ANY OF OUR CITIZENS. GOODBYE OFFICER CHESTNUT AND OFFICER GIBSON. YOU HAVE GIVEN YOUR LIFE IN EXCHANGE FOR OUR CONTINUED FREEDOM. GOD BLESS YOU BOTH!
My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of these men. The whole nation grieves with you.
Both of these men were true heroes. The
country will never forget their bravery.
They are the true example
of what makes this country the home
of the free and the brave. Our
thoughts and prayers are with your families.
I'm sorry, I know that nothing that I say
will help the pain. I've just quite working
for the Senate.
I know what a wonderful job these two men do.
God bless you, Mrs. B. Bryant
As a firefighter-medic and former police officer, the tragedy in D.C. this week once again unleashes the nightmare of not only what price we must be willing to pay for what we stand for, but what our families must face each day for choosing to be with us. God bless both families. Rest well fellas, you did well.
I am very sorry about what happened to Officers Gibson and Chestnut and offer my condolences to both of their families.
There are no words to express the sorrow you are feeling at the loss of your father, husband, son, brother. Just know that they are loved and appreciated by all for their courage. Because of them, countless lives were saved.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of these two brave officers. They gave their lives doing their duty, protecting the Capitol for all Americans. They deserve Congressional Medals of Honor for their sacrifice, as do their families.
Joshua 1:9
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
They were courageous and stood by their duty. May they rest in peace.
>From a fellow Police Officer
To the Gibson, and Chestnut families. "May God be very near you at this time of deepest sorrow,
To comfort you and grant you strength to meet each new tomorrow"
May God Bless You All.
HAVING A FATHR IN LAW WHO IS A RETIRED CAPITOL POLICE OFFICER, AND AS AN AMERICAN WHO LOVES THE FREDOM OF VISITING THE CAPITOL THE LOSS OF THESE 2 OFFICERS IS HEAVY ON MY HEART. TO THE FAMILIES OF BOTH MY PRAYERS AND THANKS
My heart is with both of the families. I understand what it feels like to loose a loved one. But a whole lot of comfort comes when I know they are truly resting in peace.
With all my prayers,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all in
the loss of your loved ones
They gave the ultimate sacrifice so that
others were safe
May God be with each of the slain officers families during there time of sorrow. And please accept my blessings.
THOUGH THEY ARE GONE, IN THE HEARTS & MINDS OF THOSE WHO LOVED THEM, THEY WILL LIVE FOREVER. GOD BLESS THEIR FAMILIES
Because we are the "free world," it is here that some of the most dreadful acts are committed and justice shows compassion to violated as well as the violator. It is also here, the land of the free and the home of the brave, that Gibson and Chestnut stand tall in death more so than in life. Our heroes are not fallen, but have ascended to a higher plain on which they are free to live out all eternity in the presence of the Lord.
My sincere sympathy goes out to the families of Officers Chestnut and Gibson. The entire country will forever be in their debt for their service and their sacrifice.
I would like to express my deepest sympathy for
the Gibson Family and the Chestnut Family. I
can't imagine what you're going through in this
time of grief. My prayers are with you and your
families.
My heart and my prayers go out to the family and friends of the slain officers. They died heroically, in the line of duty, but, noble as that truly was, the pain is that they're gone and will be sorely missed. These brave officers should /will never be forgotten. Whenever you hear of the few "dirty cops" and corrupt law enforcement officials, remember these brave men and countless other officers who have been the epitome of loyalty, duty and honor, and sacrificed their lives so that we may be free and safe. May God heal and abundantly bless their families and us as a nation as we mourn their passing and celebrate their lives.
I would like to express my empathy over the passing of two great and honorable men. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of these heroes.
A brave effort by two true Americans.
I would like to express my sincere condolences to the families & friends of our fallen Capitol Police heroes. They bravely died protecting all of us. You will not be forgotten. Rest Peacefully.
My condolences to the families of Officer John M. Gibson and Officer Jacob J. Chestnut. They say policemen are foot soldiers for Lord. Now having given the ultimate sacrifice in the heat of battle Officers Gibson and Chestnut are given battlefield promotions to guardian angels for the Lord. Families let your heart not be troubled for we will see them again. Have faith and believe. America weeps with you and for you.
Vayas con Dios and R.I.P.
my heart condolences, to the families of officers
Gibson, and Chestnut. May the Lord console you, He
loves you even in this hard and grievous moment.
Rely on Him, and Jesus Loves you.
Memories are the cushions of life. They are gifts we give ourselves. They can be taken out, remembered, then wrapped up to be brought out again later. May God give you peace and comfort is my prayer for you.
Godspeed to 2 of America's finest, but fallen heroes. My heartfelt sympathies to the families of officers John M. Gibson and Jacob J. Chestnut.
Having worked many years in state government, I've had an opportunity to work with and get to know a number of the members of Virginia's Capitol Police. Some have become good friends and losing any one of them would mean losing a valued and well respected friend. My thoughts and prayers are with the Chestnut and Gibson families and the Capitol staffers, Senators and Representatives who have lost two of their friends.
God bless your brave and selfless husbands and fathers. They and you are in our thoughts, hearts and prayers.
Though each of the families of these heroes have been changed forever, they should feel proud that their husband, father, son, and brother gave their country (our country) the ultimate sacrifice.
To the families: May the most positive memories that you have of your loved one help you make it through the nights, and may God keep you all in His comforting arms.
I am proud to call myself American because of these two heroes. I believe they will eternally serve as a testament to freedom and brotherhood. Though they came from different races, they stood together to the end to protect the freedom that we all hold so dear.
I would like to express my condolences to the Chestnut and Gibson families. I think it is a tragedy that need not have happened. I pray that the powers that be in the government of this country will look more seriously at weapon laws and laws that will protect innocent people from acts of violence committed by mentally imbalanced individuals.
My prayers are with the families of officers Chestnut
and Gibson.
May God Bless you and remember that Jesus will always be
with you through your times of trouble and he promised to
NEVER,EVER leave you alone!
I would like to send my condolences to the Gibson and Chestnut families as you mourn the loss of your loved one. Just remember to look to the hills which cometh all of your help. As you go through this, just remember that Jesus is still on the throne, and that he will never leave you or forsake you, and he is not going to put more on you than you can bear. May God Bless you and your families. My prayers are with you.
My Dad, Our Hero
A Tribute to Fallen Officers
With special dedication to the families of Special Agent John Gibson and Officer Jacob Chestnut
A gentleman offered this statement
as they laid my dad to rest,
"Today your Dad's a Hero son,
and truly nothing less!"
Into his eyes I peered,
as the tears rolled gently down.
My response was kind and simple
the only words that could be found.
My dad was an officer
and a Hero everyday.
He made this world a safer place
for you and me to stay.
A Hero who sadly offered
the news to hard to give.
A Hero who prevented tragedy,
allowing us to live.
A Hero you asked directions from
when lost or out of town.
A Hero who aided those in need
allowing ease to get around.
A Hero who returned your child
when danger threatened near.
A hero who protected freedom
so we'd have less to fear.
Yes, my dad was a Hero sir,
which he showed us in every way.
But, today he is a Hero
because of the price he had to pay.
Mis mas sinceras condolencias al pueblo de los Estados Unidos y a los familiares de estos dos heroes por este suceso tan lamentable
I wish to say how sorry I am for the loss Both families must be feeling and the hard struggle to resume life that lay ahead of them. I would also like to add that both Officer John M. Gibson and Officer Jacob J. Chestnut are the Truest off all Hero's, They protected the People and they served our Country very well and are a symbol of they way we all should be.
Rest in Peace.
My heart felt sympathy to the families of
officers John M. Gibson and Jacob J. Chestnut.
I hope there is strength in your time of need
in knowing the entire country mourns with you.
My sympathy to the families of these two heroes who were doing their job to protect the capital of our nation. I have heard it said that Freedom is not free, but I am sorry that your father, brother, husband had to pay with his life.
I send my deepest condolence to the families
of the two officers.
To the families of Officers Gibson and Chestnut. My heart and prayers go out to all of you at this difficult time. May you find comfort in knowing so many of us in this country are feeling your sorrow. Officers Gibson and Chestnut are true hero and they paid the ultimate price for my freedom and for that I say thank you and may God continue to comfort and give you strength and peace today and the days ahead.
May God provide comfort to the families of the slain officers, and receive the souls of Officers Gibson and Chestnut into eternal peace.
Although I did not know you personally, we did
share a common goal. God bless you Ofc.Chestnut
and Ofc.Gibson.
Ofc.J.Stanley
NSA-K9 Police
You have our deepest sympathy. Our hearts go out to you and we hope that God's strength will see you through this. You can rest assured that these two brave men are at peace now and no one can harm them. You can be proud of them for they risked their precious lives to protect us.
Deepest sympathies and condolences
TO THE FAMILIES OF JOHN GIBSON AND JACOB CHESTNUT:
MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO YOU!!!
MAY TIME SOFTEN THE HURT!!!
MAY YOUR CHILDREN KNOW THAT THEIR DADS WERE DOING WHAT THEY LOVED BEST!!!
MY HEART GOES OUT TO ALL OF YOU!!!
VICTOR C. /DENVER,CO.
I can not begin to imagine what the families are going
through at this time. I just cried when I heard that
the 2 officers had died.
I don't understand the way that our world is going.
I only know that it is coming to an end and we need
to pray more know than ever before. I pray that God
would touch the families with a peace that passeth
all understanding. John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut
are no longer in this world with their loved ones...
but they are in the presence of "LOVE", their heavenly
father who loves them.
I pray for the children who are now without a father
and the wives that are now without a husband. I pray
that they (with friends and other relatives) can continue
to live their lives without the hatred that can destroy.
May God give you strength, peace, and love for one another.
God bless you through these difficult times, with peace.
Sincere condolences to the Chestnut and Gibson families. As the sister of a police officer and a worker on Capitol Hill I am extremely saddened and grieved by this incident. I could not be more heartbroken, if I had known them personally. It is still very difficult to hold back the tears, and often I don't. My prayers and wishes for healing and reconciliation are with both families.
As someone who would pass you and your colleagues in the hall of the Capitol or Senate and House office buildings daily I wish you to know that you are very much respected and missed. I wish your families to know that there are a lot of people that wish it could be different and will pray every day for the best.
You Stood your ground, you fought the good fight, rest in peace brothers, rest in peace, and God bless the families you left behind and God Bless THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Dear families:
Being married to a firefighter, I understand the pride and anxiety that comes from having a loved one serve the public in this way. You have our family's prayers and thoughts as you face the days ahead. Know and believe that God is in control and that your loved ones are with Him.
My heart goes out to the families of John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut, both of whom lost their lives in such a tragic and unpredictable manner. While the recent school shootings and other violent acts that have grabbed the nation's headlines are devastating, the events surrounding these officers' deaths are more profound. They were killed in a city that produces headlines filled with politics and laws; they lost their lives protecting and serving both that city and the men and women who legislate policies to keep our nation safe. To these men and their colleagues, I say thank you; to their families, I send my condolences.
May you take solace in the fact that your loved ones died in the service of their country. There is no nobler deed than to give your life for you fellow man to live.
God bless you and know that you and in my prayers.
I want you to know as a former USCP Officer,
that your husbands were brave men. Nothing will
bring them back, but they set an example for
others to follow in terms of courage and duty.
Though words can never replace what you, the families of JJ Chestnut and John Gibson, have lost, may you find peace in the fact that so many families have you in their thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and guide you in this long journey that awaits. Your husbands/fathers are looking down upon you now and giving you eternal protection. God bless you.
It's very sad to see such brave efforts of our fellow Americans end in such a tragic way. Many people say, "Oh, he's a Police Officer, it's his job." , but the only one who decides the fate of any ones life is the Lord above.
My prayers are with the families of these two men who sacrificed their lives to save others.
These are the heroes we need to imitate and show our children as role models.
May God show his light upon their souls and may they rest in Peace. Amen
I want to express my sorrow and my gratitude to the families of Officers Chestnut and Gibson--and, in fact, to all of the officers of the Capitol Police Force.
I am the wife of a Senate staffer, and the impact of Friday's events grew heavier that afternoon as I fielded phone calls from relatives around the country inquiring about my husband.
He's fine, thank God, but I realized that day just how stupendously blase I've become about life in Washington generally--and about the ebb and flow of activity on Capitol Hill, particularly. I thought about all the times I've endured the security checkpoint process while grumbling or sighing about the hassle and delay.
I won't be doing that again.
Thank you John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut. We will not forget you or your families as the years go by. Our children will grow up knowing of your lives because you made us see that selfless heroes are with us still.
If all of us could somehow hold your families in our arms to ease the pain we would but we cannot. Though you have both touched all of our lives we can no longer touch yours except to promise your loved ones that we will never forget.
We will not forget you tomorrow, nor next year, nor in tens of years.
The people will never forget.
God be with you and your families.
You are the true pride of this nation. America might miss you forever, but your deeds shall echo the legend in you for times to come.
God Bless anyone who works in Law Enforcement or in any other field where the goal is to serve humanity. God Bless the families of John and Jacob.
To the Gibson & Chestnut families,you have my
family and my deepest heartfelt Sympathy on
your losses.In the days ahead my your memories
of your lives together help you adjust to
your tragic loss. I would like to share this
poem with you that was sent to me after the loss
of my son.
I AM STILL HERE
Death is nothing at all,
I have only slipped into the next room..
I am I,and you are you.
Whatever we are to each other, that we are still Call me by my old familiar name;
speak to me in the easy way which you always used to.Put no difference into your tone.
Wear no forced ais of solemnity or sorrow.
Laugh,as we always have laughed.
at the little jokes we enjoyed to together.
Play;smile; think of me,pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word that it
always was.Let it be spoken without effect.
without the ghost of a shadow on it.
Life means all that it has ever meant.
It is the same as it ever was.There is absolute
continuity in the world.
What is death but a negligible accident?
Why should I be out of mind because I am out
of sight?
I am waiting for you, somewhere very near.
Just around the corner and all is well.
I found peace of mind in this.My it help you.
Our deepest sympathy goes out to the families of Officer Chestnut and Officer Gibson. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. God's peace be with you.
My prayers go out to Officer Chesnut and Officer Gibson Families. I was deeply sadden to read about the shooting which occurred on last Friday at the Capitol. Even though I didn't know the officers personally, I felt as if I had met them for the very first time. What a price to pay for freedom and protection. May God be with your families, friends and co-workers.
To the families of Officers Gibson and Chestnut, your loved one's heroic deeds touched us all
and our family will be forever grateful. We will keep you in our
prayers and in our hearts.
May God bless you all.
Sincerely,
Sharon and Mecca Elmouhib
Condolences to your families, and prayers
go out to them in their time of need. May
God protect you all. Some day we shall all
meet.
To the families of John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God give you strength and fortitude to deal with and face this with solitude.
God bless, Que dios los bendiga
I am very sorry for the death of the two officers
last Friday. As a former D.C. Police officer I k
now that the friendship and camaraderie between
all law enforcement agencies in the District is
one of respect and admiration, and I know that
the pain is also mutual. My condolences to
the Gibson and Chestnut families, and also to
the Capitol Police family.
To the families of John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut, they are HEROES. They will be remembered in the hearts of all. God bless.
I just think that this is a very sad time and my heart goes out to their families.sincerely-from a Richmond resident.
Officers Chestnut and Gibson made the ultimate
sacrifice for the preservation of freedom for
all Americans. Their acts of bravery and
heroism will not be forgotten. They represented
the good that these great United States has to
offer. May God Bless and guide their families
during this difficult time. Please accept the
condolences from a grateful Nation.
May God continue to bless the families of these fallen officers and my heaven's gate open to receive them in all the Precious Glory of the LORD!!! I sincerely pray that as our hearts heal, we continue to celebrate the lives of these two fallen officers. May GOD Bless US All!!
To all family members, Our hearts go out to you and our prayers are with you. We are so sorry about what happened to your loved ones. If there were more people like them this world would be a much better place. May God be with you.
Words cannot express the pain we as a nation feel for your families. What a sad state indeed this world has come too. And the killings only confirm what we already know. That is that only Jehovah God can correct the sad state of affairs of this world.
May God have mercy on our souls. Peace unto you.
My heart broke Friday -- my boyfriend of six years is a police officer. I'm a newspaper editor, and I had a hard time getting the paper out that day. My deep and sincere condolences and prayers to both families, and to families of law enforcement officers everywhere. Thank God for them, and may God protect them.
Words cannot express the sorrow and sense of tragedy we feel today. Our thoughts and prayers go out the families of Officers Gibson and Chestnut. May time heal your pain but not diminish your thoughts of your loved ones. God bless.
The services today and the burials to come in Arlington National Cemetery are fitting tributes for two men who literally gave their lives for freedom. It's easy to forget sometimes that our freedom doesn't come easy and that there are those who would threaten it in whatever form. My family sends sincere condolences and grateful thanks to the families of Officer Chestnut and Detective Gibson. It is people like them who continue to make this country the great democracy it is.
Thank God your husbands and fathers were there to protect our nation's capitol and to stop a potential bloodbath of innocent victims. Our only regret is that they had to give their lives to stop this murderer. Our prayers are with your families.
There can be no words to describe how, I feel about what has happened, Today we remember, Tomorrow we go on, and try to help prevent this from ever happening again.
My prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. May God strengthen you.
More honor in the guard then in the guarded.
Gibson and Chestnut
You both won't be forgotten
No better man is there that sacrifices his life
for others
May God Bless you for your courage
My deepest sympathy goes out to the family and relatives of the officers who upheld their duty proudly in serving our country. For their dedication you should be proud. Remember them well....May God Bless You All, Real Good.
Our hearts go out to the families of these two US Capitol PoliceOfficers. My prayers are with you all. May you each find the Lord's strenght within yourselves to help deal with the days & years ahead. Let it be inspired by the strenght of these two caring men. Our prayers are also for the people who knew & loved these two men as well as the people who were present at this tragic event. God grant you all his peace. Amen.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, the families and friends of John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut. God bless you.
To the families of the slain heroes: We could never begin to understand your pain. Please be assured of my prayers for you. May God bless you all and send you His peace.
Dear Capitol Police officer family...
We are sorry about it.
They are great great officers and we never for get them. Good luck with you guys and God bless your family.
Dear Gibson and Chestnut family
We are sorry about it.
They are great great officers and we will never forget them.
Bu a faithful and God bless your family.
Today I watch in such sorrow, to think that our nation can have such events. I want to express my humble sorrow but with gratitude for the brave men that gave their lives Friday. You lost a Husband, Father, Brother, Son, but The Lord above gained a very great Hero from our nation. God bless you and give you strength in this time of need. There is always a reason, but we shouldn't question. Our prayers are with y'all daily. God be with all of you.
To the Chestnut and Gibson family. My deepest sympathy goes out to you. Mr. Chestnut and Mr. Gibson are true heroes and will never be forgotten.
My God Bless you and keep you.
Our hearts and prayers go to the families of these heroes --- What a tragedy for their families and for this nation!
Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and friends and coworkers of the Gibson
and Chestnut families. Your loss is a heavy one to bear but know that all of you are in the hearts and minds of all Americans.
Their acts of incredible courage will be forever etched in the very soul of America. May God and your families sustain you in your grief.
To Karen Chestnut, daughter of Officer Chestnut, please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Karen, you were there for me in high school and college when I was having some of the toughest times of my life. Looking back, those problems don't come close to the loss your family has felt this past week. Although no words could adequately express my sympathy, please know that I will always be there for you as you were for me. Your friend,
Many times we have visited the U. S. Capitol and experienced the professionalism and care that the officers on duty have shown to us. Even though we were not directly acquainted with officers Chestnut and Gibson, we feel that we have lost friends and true neighbors with there deaths. To the families, we will never forget the price that you have paid to our society through the loss of two American Heroes. In our hearts they will never die. Please accept our condolences and very real offers of help and support to you if you should ever need help. May God Bless you and especially the children.
I would like to express my condolences to the families of Officers, Gibson, and Chestnut. I also thank the families for the many sacrifices, they have made, during the careers, of a law enforcement officer. I too am in law enforcement, and I know that the families have sacrificed, many hours alone, while these officers performed their duties. I know of the missed ballgames, their children played in and that they would have loved to be there watching, but duty called, and they were on the job. For these and the many other sacrifices these men made I say thank you. Sincerely Steve Schmidt Kansas Dept. of Corrections
To the families and friends of Officers Jacob Chestnut and John Gibson: The courage of these men will always remind us that freedom is paid for by the lives of others. May the Lord comfort and bless each and every one of you as you grieve for these loved ones.
These two brave men gave their lives to protect the lawmakers of the country they loved and honored. We must never forget that their jobs, which often were taken for granted, were as important as the jobs of the men and women they protected each and every day. Their loss is profound. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends.
My family and I want to send our sincere condolences to the
families of the slain officers. These officers killed in
the line of duty protecting citizens at our Capitol will be
remembered as men doing their job, heroes.
May the families find comfort in God during this
difficult time. And know that He will never leave you
or forsake you.
God Bless You All!
Our heartfelt prayers and condolences go out to the
Chestnut and Gibson families. The nation is in
mourning for you and your families. Officers
Chestnut and Gibson preserved the safety and
sanctity of the capitol. For that, the nation
is grateful.
To the families of the officers Kill in the Capitol, please except our heart felt sorry in the lost of your love ones.
They were true Heroes!
The Baskerville Family
I would like to send my condolences to both of the officers families. My thoughts and prayers are with you both. May god bless you.
May the power of the Lord be with
you and your family at this sad time.
We hope you feel the warmth and
love of the people at this time in
your life. Hold on to the Lords hand
and know that he is with you now
and always. The Masseys
Freedom is something that we, as Americans, often take for granted. We visit the Capitol and we complain about the lines at the metal detectors and we just walk by the guards who are there and we forget that these are men with families who love them. But, on Friday afternoon, that freedom and those families lost something which can never be taken back. Jacob Chestnut and John Gibson were men that I have never met. And their families are people I have never met. But, yet, I sat with the rest of the nation this afternoon and memorialized the sacrifice of their lives that they gave to protect the freedom that I take for granted when I visit the Capitol. And as I look back on everything, I realize that I do take my freedom for granted and that is protected--both in the Capitol and in my home community--by men and women who are not afraid to say that they would give their lives to protect the lives of others. President Clinton and other leaders today called Officers Chestnut and Gibson heroes-I truly
believe they are heroes. And I know that the loss of a loved one--especially to a death so violent--can not be easy. But, I hope that the strength and prayers that our nation has for the Chestnut and Gibson will bring them some comfort in their grief. My thoughts and prayers are with all of those who feel their loss.
Sorry.
Thank you for our safety, for which we so often take for granted. Just last week I walked the floor of the capitol without a thought to my safety thanks to these men and others. My condolences to the families of officers Gibson and Chesnut. The memory of their honorable actions will remain in our hearts.
This is a person, whom feels for all parties involved. I feel grief and heart ache that such a harsh incident can be done, even in today's well protected society. I feel more grief and anguish for the families of Capitol Police officers Chestnut and Gibson, whom were only doing there job, and died with full honors.
I am truly saddened by the loss of these
fine officers. My children and I visit the mall
area often, and have always felt safe there. The bravery
of Officers Chestnut and Gibson will never be forgotten.
Surely God has them by his side now. God bless the
Chestnut and Gibson families.
I am truly saddened by the loss of these
fine officers. My children and I visit the mall
area often, and have always felt safe there. The bravery
of Officers Chestnut and Gibson will never be forgotten.
Surely God has them by his side now. God bless the
Chestnut and Gibson families.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Chestnut and Gibson families. We appreciate the freedoms and protection your loved ones gave to each of us . I know you will find peace in knowing Officer Chestnut and Officer Gibson made the ultimate sacrifice and are now being rewarded in their final resting place. Let us also remember the Westin family. They, too, have have a burden to bear because of the act committed by their son. Peace and God Bless you all.
God bless the Chestnut and Gibson families.
My family and I have often spent time on the
mall, at the Smithsonian, and by the Capitol.
We shall always think of Officers Chestnut and
Gibson when at the mall. God bless their
families, and our sincere condolences.
Heartfelt condolences to the families, friends,
and fellow officers of these two brave men.
Our thoughts and prayers and with the families of the two slain officers.
If there were ever two heroes in American it was these two gentlemen.
I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of Officer Chestnut and Officer Gibson. I am saddened at their deaths, and grateful that they were willing to sacrifice themselves to prevent greater tragedy. Someday, children will read about these men in history books. May we never forget the nation's sorrow, and may we never take for granted the liberties they died to uphold. My prayers are with the families and all those who knew these officers.
"To lay down one's life for a friend, this is the truest test of love." I am paraphrasing a passage from the Bible.
I am not a police officer, but I broke down when I heard the news that these two men died while helping others.
Mr. Chestnut was assisting two tourists when that maniac shot him, and Mr. Gibson put his body in front of another human being, shielding her from that crazed killer.
To give up one's life for another. We have truly lost two of God's Angels.
My prayers and thoughts are with the Chestnut and Gibson families, as well as their extended family...the Capitol Police. You officers make me proud to be an American!
Thank you for all that you do; and that goes out to all police officers around the country.
Thank you.
My deepest sympathy to the bereaved families of Officer Chestnut and Officer Gibson.
MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH BOTH FAMILIES.
IT MAY SEEM THAT THERE IS NO SUN TODAY OR TOMORROW BUT I WILL GET BETTER.
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY.
In their families' grief, I was so proud of
Officer Chestnut who was the first African-
American to lie in state in our Nation's home.
I attended high school blocks away from his
Carver Elementary school. Long after he earned his
high school diploma commuting 15 miles away
during segregation, I was in the second class
as our high school integrated in 1968. Children could
then could walk a few blocks to attend the classes
their parents' taxes paid for years, not make
the long, daily commute of Officer Chestnut when
they could see Myrtle Beach High School as the bus pulled away, all white,
right there in their hometown.
His life, family, neighborhood and career are
testament to a good man. For me as a
white Southerner, it moves me greatly that in
his final act of courage, J. J. Chestnut goes
in the history books of our Nation, whose fragile
freedoms continue to be won by the courage of
Americans. Officer Chestnut's life is a story which deserves to be
told again, quietly and again, to remind us of
who we are together. My deepest sympathy and
prayers to the families of Officer Chestnut and
Detective Gibson.
These two men are true heroes. Officer Gibson could have run the other way, but he stepped in and saved many lives. We are lucky to live in a culture where people still put the needs of others ahead of their own!
Words cannot express the sorrow I feel.
Too many of our fellow Americans die each day due to random violence.
Officers Chesnut and Gibson laid down their lives so that others may live.
These men are truly heroes, God bless them and their families. I will never forget
them
Grief is a universal emotion, shared by all of God's creation. Perhaps there is comfort in knowing that the whole world mourns the loss of these two gentlemen. Loss of life can never be tolerated. God's blessing of peace and strength to the families, friends and colleagues.
We express our sincere sympathy to the families, friends and co-workers of Officer Chestnut and Officer Gibson. What a tragic loss.
To the families of John Gibson and J.J. Chestnut, My family sends it love and encouragement to your families. What true great American hero's these two fine officer's are and always will be in our hearts. May you find peace in God's love. Our deepest regards
My deepest sympathies to the friends and families of the two US Capitol Police Officers who were killed on Friday. My family and I will keep you all in our prayers. May God bless and keep you all.
Thank you...to both families. With sorrow and condolences, may you soon feel great comfort, gratitude and love of a grateful people for the loss of your loved ones. May God bless you--our prayers are with you!
I have always looked upon The U.S. Capitol Police as special. I hate what has happened to you. This violence has caused our nation great pain. Thank you for your commitment, and sacrifice.
Remember God is always on you side so live you sorrow and pain in God hand and the love you had for your love one will always help to take away some pain. God will stand by you and your family in your time of sorrow. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
Remember the angels of god enter his kingdom always.
GOD BLESS
To the Families of Officers Gibson and Chestnut,
Words can not express our families feeling of loss for your loved ones. We know that because they gave their lives others could live. Losing a loved one is very very hard and our family can only hope over time the good, loving memories of these brave men will carry you through the difficult times. Our prayers are with your families.
Our prayers are with your family during this difficult time. My God give each of you the strength you need to endure this painful and heartbreaking period in your lives. Respectfully,
To the Chestnut and Gibson family, may God grant you peace, my sincere condolences on your lost.
My condolences go out to the family, friends and
coworkers of the fallen officers, Mr. Chestnut and Mr.
Gibson. May god be with you and may your souls rest
in peace. Our thoughts and prayers will be with
you forever.
To the families of the two officers, Officers Chestnut and Gibson,
I thoughts and prayers are with you all.
May both men find peace in God's home.
Please extend my condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of Officers Chestnut and Gibson. I was on my way home from vacation when I heard the news of this tragedy and was deeply saddened. I hope the memories of these two fine men comfort and give everyone strength to get through this time of despair. May God bless their families and keep watch over our nation.
hold on to GOD'S unchanging hand for he
will ease your burden in times of stress and may
every tomorrow be a vision of hope. My prayers
are with the family and put all your burdens in
the MASTER'S hand for he is with you.
I am deeply moved and hurt by what has happened here. I am especially moved because they were both great people. I remember officer Chesnut especially. On my many visits to the Capitol, you were there to help guide me in my lost ways. You directed me many times to the same location over and over again. Your patience was greatly appreciated. When I brought the tour groups from out of town to visit, you were always kind to them. I will always be forever grateful for you help. I wish that there were more people like you. My prayers go out to both families.
This is to offer my condolences to both families. Your husbands died literally saving others. We will never be able to explain to the fullest why. Sometimes things happen and they can never be made sense of. I won't say that "I know how you feel", because I don't. I can say that God will be with you during your time of bereavement and make some of the tears disappear. Again, I am very sorry for your loss and my prayers are with both families.
I think that the officers slain in the Capital
were a horrible sight.So that makes me and the other
people in this country of ours scared to even go to the tour of the capital
there's got to be more tighter security. It's like that guy
just walk up in there and like he was a important person and just started firing away.
Now to talk about the slain officers they are there to serve and to protect the people and the capital .
But instead they lost their lives . They should
not have to worry about some one going to kill them in any time.
any way I feel for the families that have had to
deal with these times and would like to say there in a better place.
Rest in peace . God Bless America
Robert Nixon
Chesterfield Va.
May the families and fellow police officers of Mr. Chestnut and Mr. Gibson take some comfort in knowing that this whole nation is grieving with you. It is a senseless tragedy.
To the families of Officer Gibson and Officer Chestnut, there are no words that we can express that will ease your sorrow and your pain. But I want you to know that we all feel the pain of losing these wonderful men. We may not feel it to the extent that you do, but they have gone to God paying the highest price. When the pain becomes unbearable please remember that you will see them again, you haven't lost them forever. There spirits are here with you as long as you are here.
God bless officer Gibson and office Chestnut and their families. Those two
did something very few would be able to do.
May God watch over their families and help
them through this terrible time.
May God Comfort the families of Mr. Gibson and Mr. Chestnut. God has blessed you with two of his angels. They will forever live in your hearts. My sincere condolences to both families.
I am deeply sorry for the two families that lost
their dear loved ones to this tragedy at the U.S.
Capitol. Americans should be deeply grateful
for all the members of Law Enforcement who offer
their lives every day so that we can be safe.
These two men died heroes, but I'm certain that they
have always been heroes in the eyes of their friends and
family.
My daughter and I offer our deepest sympathy to
their families.
--Jill and Jacy Findley
West Point, GA
May God be with you and your families during this time. My blessings are with you.
My heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beloved
husbands, fathers, brothers, and family
May the good Lord bless and keep the families of Capitol Police Officers Jacob Chestnut and John Gibson. And may the Metropolitan community always remember them as the heroes these two officers were. God bless us all.
Thank God for these two brave men. I am praying for their families that God will bless them and comfort them.
It is a tragedy that such an act should take place, I just want to let the families of these two slain officers that my prayers are with you in your time of sorrow.
This tragedy has touched a nation. In losing your
love ones we as a nation have seen what the United
States of America is truly about. In Officer Gibson
and Officer Chestnut I see two men who made the
ultimate sacrifice for their country, their God and
their family. I hope that you can find some solace
in the fact that the death of these two Americans
was not in vain and was in fact to protect the
freedom and livelihood or their children and family
members. The national spotlight may fade but I as
an American will never forget the sacrifice that
these two national heroes made.
To the Chestnut family:
I'm so sorry to hear about your lost. Mr. Chestnut will not be forgotten. Stay strong and brave as I know Mr. & Mrs. Chestnut wouldn't have any other way.
Again: I'm so sorry.
I am sorry.
WE ARE SENDING OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE CHESTNUT AND GIBSON FAMILIES AND TO LET YOU KNOW THAT YOU ALL ARE IN OUR PRAYERS. THESE MEN GAVE THERE LIVES IN THE LINE OF DUTY AND SHOULD BE PRAISED FOREVER. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.
To the grieving families of Officers Gibson
and Chestnut, your loved ones gave their lives
in order to protect many others. Remember that
they are now angels looking after you here on
Earth. My family and I want to extend our
sincerest sympathies to you all.
AS A POLICE SUPERVISOR I TOOK THE TIME TO READ THE NEWSPAPER ACCOUNT OF THIS INCIDENT TO MY OFFICERS AT THE EVENING ROLL CALL. I WANTED TO TEACH MY OFFICERS TO BE ON THEIR TOES AND TEACH THEM THAT WE CAN BE SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED AT ANY TIME. GIBSON AND CHESTNUT'S STORY KEPT MY OFFICERS SAFE THAT NIGHT!
My thanks to both families for supporting both men in their chosen careers. They are both a credit to their families, churches and country. May they rest in the glory of God.
To the families of Officer Chestnut and Det. Gibson, you are in our prayers. We will hold you in our hearts and grieve with you.
May God Bless you all.
May God, continue to Bless your families during
your absence. You will always be remembered for
your loyalty and dedication in serving your
country, and protecting your fellow Americans.
You are just away from our sight,but not from our
hearts.
I feel sad for the loss of John Gibson and Jacob Chesnut. Their commitment to our
country and the courage of their convictions is something we can
all take pride in. I wish I could be as brave as they were.
TO THE FAMILIES OF THE SLAIN OFFICERS, I ONLY HOPE
THAT YOU AND YOURS WILL TRY TO REMEMBER THAT GOD IS
WITH YOU IN THIS TIME OF NEED. WE ARE ALL KEEPING YOU
IN OUR PRAYERS AND FEELING THE SORROWS OF A GREAT AND
DEAR LOST TO THE WORLD, TO OF GOD VERY OWN.
WITH ALL OF OUR PRAYERS
DR. T. G. MONTGOMERY AND FAMILY
Growing up living next to the Chief of Police of
the US Capitol, I was aware of how important the
US CAPITOL Police is to our Nations Capitol.
I know how specialized and well trained these
Police Officers become before going on duty.
THEY ARE THE BEST in the nation.
With this knowledge I have always assured the
out of town visitors that they could feel safe
and secure while visiting our Nations Capitol.
I walk the streets around the Capitol everyday
at lunch time without fear, knowing that we are
being protected by the BEST Police Force in the
nation. This was proven to us on Friday.
With pride and honor these two police
officers gave up their life for us, the people.
This is a very sad time and my condolences go
out their families. May God bless and wrap
his arms around you and give you comfort at
this time.
Growing up living next to the Chief of Police of
the US Capitol, I was aware of how important the
US CAPITOL Police is to our Nations Capitol.
I know how specialized and well trained these
Police Officers become before going on duty.
THEY ARE THE BEST in the nation.
With this knowledge I have always assured the
out of town visitors that they could feel safe
and secure while visiting our Nations Capitol.
I walk the streets around the Capitol everyday
at lunch time without fear, knowing that we are
being protected by the BEST Police Force in the
nation. This was proven to us on Friday.
With pride and honor these two police
officers gave up their life for us, the people.
This is a very sad time and my condolences go
out their families. May God bless and wrap
his arms around you and give you comfort at
this time.
My husband and I would like to extend our
deepest condolences to you. As members of your
"family in blue," please know that we are
grieving by your side, and will never forget
the sacrifice your loved ones made.
Next year's Fallen Peace Officers Memorial Day
will be even more somber as we remember what
happened just a few short feet away.
My husband will be at Officer Gibson's funeral
tomorrow, as a representative of his department.
It is a duty that he will perform with great
sadness and immeasurable respect for both
Officer Gibson and Officer Chestnut. In
performing this honor, he will be presenting
both his and my support, condolences and respect
for our fallen brothers. We are a support
system that no one ever wants to have to call
on, but we will never fail you.
You will rest forever in our prayers.
The Gibson and Chestnut families have given us
the people of the United States a precious gift.
We are honored and saddened to accept that gift.
I would like to express my sincere condolences
to the family of the two brave officers who gave
their lives for the protection of others. My
prayers are with the family. May GOD be with you
in your time of need and may HE also bring you peace.
GOD BLESS YOU.
My sympathy and prayers are with you. I know
that God is with you and will be there to help
you and your families through this time of mourning.
These two officers, John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut,
were truly heroes and all will remember them. This
country is better because of heroes such as these
two men.
How sad that I had passed by you every day and it took this tragedy to bring the importance of one working at this great symbol of freedom.
Heartfelt sorrow and pain, may God be with them. It is sad to say that so much of your suffering is brought about by them being in harmony with their duty to mankind. Begin to walk closely with God, taking time to read his Word, for Satan "prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour", and in many disguises. But most of all May God be with you as begin to deal with the loss of your love ones.
Greater love hath no man. God bless!
To the Families of Officers Chestnut and Gibson: Your loved ones are in my prayers. They are truly American heroes. I know that this is a difficult time for you. God will comfort you; he'll never leave you. God bless you all. I pray that you find comfort in knowing that your loved ones are with God.
I WOULD LIKE TO EXTEND MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE CHESTNUT & GIBSON
FAMILIES.MAY GOD CONTINUE TO KEEP YOU IN HIS PRAYERS DURING THE LOSS OF YOUR LOVED ONES. MAY GOD BLESS THE WESTON FAMILY ALSO.
ALWAYS KNOW THAT GOD IS A VERY FORGIVING GOD
MRS. GILLS & FAMILY
MRS. GILLS & FAMILY
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the Chestnut & Gibson families. May God continue to keep you in his prayers during the loss of your loved ones. My prayers also go out to the Weston family.
Always know that God is a very forgiving God.
Mrs. Gills & Family
God bless you
It is our fervent hope that grief and pain can,
in due time, be conquered by the prayers and
good wishes of a nation and beyond. All of us
will never forget these heroes, what they
stood for and the courage and pride of their
loved ones.
Eikhof Moncayo Family
To the Chestnut Family & the Gibson Family,
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to
each one of you. I didn't know them personal or
professionally but it still is a great lost to
me because as a resident and a frequent visitor
on the hill and feeling secure by the police
staff it troubles me to know that such tragedy
could strike like this unfortunate incident.
But I will continue to pray for each an everyone
member of your families and hope in due time
the pain you have suffer will ease your mind.
GOD BLESS EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU!!!
To the families of John Gibson and Jacob Chestnut, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Remember these men as heroes as well as loved ones.
My heartfelt condolences go out to the Chestnut
and Gibson families; especially to the children.
I, too lost my father suddenly; I share and I
care.
My Deepest Sympathy to the families,May God Bless and Keep you.
To The Gibson and Chestnut Family
May God love, protect and serve you and your
family in the same manner John and J.J.
loved, served and protected us!
Even though this is a tragedy, I truly believe that God used these two extremely brave men to help everyone realize that we are all family. So my brothers and sisters let's move the country forward as a family. We don't have to wait for a tragedy of this magnitude to unite. May the love of God sustain the Chestnut and Gibson families.
Mrs. Chestnut and Mrs. Gibson and family I send my deepest condolences. Officers Chestnut and Gibson are heroes to the entire Nation. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" John 15:13. God Bless you and keep all the day of your life.
TO THE FAMILIES OF OFFICER(S)
J.J. CHESTNUT AND JOHN GIBSON
I WILL REMEMBER YOU IN MY PRAYERS DURING THIS TIME OF YOUR
BEREAVEMENT. MAY GOD BE WITH EACH
OF.
Everyday is so very precious. Non of us know
what tomorrow will bring. A multitude are
saddened by the deaths of officers Gibson
and Chestnut. Also, I can not forget the
parents of Mr. Weston.They are deeply
hurt and I hope God has mercy on them. Our
hearts go out to all family members.
To the families, friends, and co-workers of Officer Gibson and Officer
Chestnut,
Our thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you. As relatives of
a Capitol Police Officer, we understand the fear you must have felt when the
news of the shooting was first released. As our first thought was of our
loved one, as we are sure your was also.
There are no words to express the sorrow and pain we are feeling for all of
you. We know your hearts are suffering greatly. We hope this message gives
all of you just a little comfort in knowing our prayers and thoughts are with
each and every one of you.
All of you, please remember through the difficult times, we need to put our
Faith in God. He can help each of us through. God Bless All of You.
I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to
the families of Officer Gibson and Officer
Chestnut. They were Heroes for all Americans.
They will be sadly missed by all their loved
one and friends. May God Bless them and their
families.
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