Saturday’s terrorist attacks in London — during which three terrorists drove a van through crowds on London Bridge before subsequently stabbing and attacking innocent bystanders in restaurants and on the street — has rightfully shaken many people who have read the details of the situation. It’s unsettling to think about, even if London has remained resilient in the aftermath, and tragic to think of those who lost their lives in yet another example of senseless and unimaginable violence on a random weekend evening.
With the terrorists all killed by law enforcement, stories have begun to emerge about the heroism on display by police officers and citizens of England’s capital city. Whether it is restaurant patrons fighting back against the attackers with glasses and crates, or a random guy running through the streets with his pint of beer, there are more than enough uplifting anecdotes to go around.
The latest story is one of indescribable heroism, as it has come out that a British Transport Officer took on all three terrorists with only a baton to defend himself. According to The Independent, the officer suffered multiple stab wounds to his legs, head, and face while facing off against the attacks and is being rightfully declared a hero. The officer’s superior testified to his bravery and “enormous courage.” Chief Constable Paul Crowther’s full statement is as such:
“Having visited the officer in hospital shortly after he was admitted for treatment, I was able to hear his account of what happened last night. It became clear that he showed enormous courage in the face of danger, as did many others who were at the scene and rushed to help. Although he is seriously unwell, he was able to recount how he faced the attackers armed only with his baton, outside London Bridge station.
For an officer who only joined us less than two years ago, the bravery he showed was outstanding and makes me extremely proud. All of us at BTP wish him a swift recovery, and I know he will be touched by the hundreds of messages of support from across the UK and the world.”
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick similarly praised the injured officers “extraordinary bravery.” Other officers were also injured in the incident and it is no surprise that many both in the law enforcement community and outside of it are sending well wishes and hoping for full recoveries. In the face of such atrocities, it is always good to know that people like this officer will display more bravery than can possibly be measured.
(Via The Independent)