Obama Salutes 'Hero' Boston Police Officer Shot In Face
BOSTON (AP) — A decorated Boston police officer recovering after being shot in the face by a suspect got a shout-out Monday from President Barack Obama.
Obama began his speech at the dedication of the new Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate by saluting Officer John Moynihan.
"Boston, know that Michelle and I have joined our prayers with yours these past few days for a hero — former Army Ranger and Boston Police Officer John Moynihan, who was shot in the line of duty on Friday night," the president said.
"I mention him because, last year, at the White House, the vice president and I had the chance to honor Officer Moynihan as one of America's 'Top Cops' for his bravery in the line of duty, for risking his life to save a fellow officer," he said. "We wish him a full and speedy recovery."
Moynihan, 34, was one of the first responders in Watertown following the April 2013 gun battle with the Boston Marathon bombers. He helped save wounded transit police Officer Richard Donohue.
He remains hospitalized after undergoing surgery to remove a bullet lodged below his ear. Obama said he was heartened to hear the downed officer was awake and talking.
Vice President Joe Biden visited Moynihan at the hospital on Monday, Boston police said.
Moynihan and five other gang unit officers in two cars had stopped a car driven by Angelo West, 41, as they investigated a report of shots fired.
West shot Moynihan point-blank as he approached the car, and the other officers fatally shot West when he continued firing at them as he tried to run away, police said.
West had several gun convictions, including one that involved firing at police in 2001, prosecutors said.
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