WASHINGTON, D.C. (localmemphis.com) – President Trump honored Memphis Police Sergeant Verdell Smith, who was killed in the line of duty three years ago.
During a ceremony at the White House Wednesday, Smith’s children accepted the public safety officer medal of valor on his behalf. Memphis Police Director Mike Rallings and Deputy Chief Mike Shearin also were in attendance.
“In June 2016, a gunman was speeding toward a busy intersection downtown. As Sergeant Smith cleared the street, the attacker struck and fatally injured Sergeant Smith. I just want to thank Sergeant Smith’s family,” President Trump said.
The medal is the nation’s highest honor for bravery by a public safety officer.