Lawmakers are calling for Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman to be honored with a Congressional Gold Medal for his heroic actions during last week’s U.S. Capitol riots.

On Thursday (Jan. 14), Reps. Charlie Crist, Emanuel Cleaver and Nancy Mace introduced a legislation to award Goodman with the prestigious medal for deterring the rioters away from the Senate chamber during the riot.

“He’s a hero!” Congressman Crist said. “The United States Capitol was under attack by armed, violent extremists, and Officer Eugene Goodman was the only thing standing between the mob and the United States Senate. I shudder to think what might have happened had it not been for Officer Goodman’s fast thinking and commitment to his duty and his country.”

Goodman was caught on video purposefully luring the violent rioters away from where the lawmakers were sheltering in place. The footage went viral on social media and the officer was praised as a hero. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor Congress can grant a civilian. Rosa Parks and Nelson Mandela were past recipients of the award.

“The actions of Officer Goodman were heroic and represent the best of law enforcement,” said Congresswoman Mace. “When he was the only thing standing between Members of Congress and the violent mob, he quickly and selflessly redirected their fury upon himself so those Members could escape. Thanks to his valor, we are here today. From the bottom of my heart, I cannot thank him enough for his bravery and for his dedication to the call of duty.”

“If not for the quick, decisive and heroic actions from Officer Goodman, the tragedy of last week’s insurrection could have multiplied in magnitude to levels never before seen in American history,” said Congressman Cleaver. “With this prestigious award, we can show our gratitude to Officer Goodman for saving countless lives and defending our democracy.”