Pelosi Announces Sergeant Aquilino Gonell as Guest for State of the Union

Washington, D.C. – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi announced today that former Capitol Police Sergeant Aquilino Gonell will be her guest for tonight's State of the Union Address. Sergeant Gonell bravely defended the United States Capitol during the January 6th insurrection and has spoken out against those who have denied the truth of the attack.

"Tonight, we will hear from a dedicated champion of Democracy, President Joe Biden, as he delivers his State of the Union Address," Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi said. "I am honored that another champion of Democracy, Sergeant Aquilino Gonell, will be my guest."

"Sergeant Gonell is an American hero," Speaker Emerita Pelosi continued. "On January 6, 2021, he put his own life on the line as he courageously protected the Capitol, the Congress and the Constitution from a deadly siege. After enduring unimaginable brutality and trauma, he has continued his selfless service – speaking out to ensure that we all remember the truth of the insurrection."

Speaker Emerita Pelosi concluded: "Sergeant Gonell's personal story is one of duty and determination: coming to America as a young child, overcoming adversity and discrimination, and defending our Democracy in the Armed Forces and in the Capitol Police force. An immigrant, a veteran and a patriot, Sergeant Gonell truly embodies the best of America."

Born in the Dominican Republic, Aquilino Gonell came to America as a child and became the first in his family to graduate college. After serving in the U.S. Army, including in Iraq, he joined the United States Capitol Police. On January 6, 2021, he defended the Capitol from a violent and deadly attack – sustaining serious injuries and trauma. In the months since, he has been outspoken in sharing his account of that dark day and the importance of holding those responsible to account.