FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 30, 2026

Contact: Joaquin Suriel

Press Office: Governor's Office

Email: Joaquin.Suriel@nj.gov

Governor Mikie Sherrill today signed a proclamation designating July 30, 2026, as Brian Sicknick Day in New Jersey, honoring the life, service, and sacrifice of the South River native who bravely defend the United States Capitol during the violent insurrection on January 6, 2021. July 30 marks Officer Sicknick’s birthday.

“Brian Sicknick was the very best of New Jersey,” said Governor Sherrill. “I will never forget being evacuated from the House chamber, preparing our gas masks, unsure whether we would encounter the violent mob Trump sent to the Capitol on January 6. Brian and his fellow Capitol Police officers held the line, fighting for our democracy and allowing us to return that night to carry out our Constitutional duty and certify the election. More than five years later, we have a responsibility to remember the truth of what happened and ensure that Brian’s service and sacrifice are never forgotten.”

By designating July 30, Officer Sicknick’s birthday, as Brian Sicknick Day, New Jersey will annually recognize his extraordinary commitment to public service. Amidst constant attacks on democracy from President Trump and Republicans in Washington, New Jersey reaffirms its commitment to the rule of law, free and fair elections, and the public servants who defend the Constitution.

“Brian dedicated his life to serving others and protecting the country he loved,” said Craig Sicknick, Brian’s brother. “Our family is deeply grateful to Governor Sherrill and the State of New Jersey for honoring Brian on his birthday and ensuring that his courage, sacrifice and lifetime of service is never forgotten. Brian Sicknick Day is also a tribute to every law enforcement officer who stood in defense of the Capitol, our Constitution, and our Democracy during the Insurrection on Jan 6, 2021.”

The annual designation was established through Assembly Joint Resolution 215 and Senate Joint Resolution 151, sponsored by Assemblymen Robert Karabinchak and Sterley Stanley as well as Senators Patrick Diegnan Jr. and Gordon Johnson. The legislation was signed into law on January 9, 2026, during Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, following a wreath-laying ceremony at the Brian Sicknick Memorial Garden in South River attended by members of Officer Sicknick’s family, law enforcement officers, veterans, and state leaders.

Officer Sicknick was born in New Brunswick on July 30, 1978, and grew up in South River. He joined the New Jersey Air National Guard in 1997 and served as a fire team member and leader with the 108th Security Forces Squadron. He deployed to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Southern Watch and to Kyrgyzstan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom before being honorably discharged in 2003. He joined the United States Capitol Police in 2008 and later served in the First Responders Unit and the mountain bike unit.

On January 6, 2021, Officer Sicknick responded to the Capitol as a violent mob attempted to prevent Congress from certifying the results of the 2020 presidential election. He was assaulted by rioters and later suffered two strokes before passing away the following night. The United States Capitol Police recognizes Officer Sicknick’s death as occurring in the line of duty and continues to honor his courage in defending Congress, the Capitol, and the democratic process.

New Jersey recognizes Brian Sicknick Day to not only honor his final act of courage, but also his lifetime of service to his state and country. The commemoration affirms the State’s enduring gratitude to the law enforcement officers who risked their lives to protect the Capitol and preserve the peaceful transfer of power.