Governor Mikie Sherrill has officially proclaimed July 30, 2026, as Brian Sicknick Day in New Jersey, establishing an annual commemoration for the South River native, veteran, and U.S. Capitol Police officer who died following the January 6, 2021, insurrection.
The designation honors Officer Sicknick's life, service, and sacrifice in defending the U.S. Capitol. Governor Sherrill said, "Brian Sicknick was the very best of New Jersey. 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."
Craig Sicknick, Brian's brother, expressed gratitude, saying, "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." The annual day was established through Assembly Joint Resolution 215 and Senate Joint Resolution 151, signed into law on January 9, 2026.
Born in New Brunswick on July 30, 1978, Officer Sicknick served in the New Jersey Air National Guard, deploying to Saudi Arabia and Kyrgyzstan, before joining the U.S. Capitol Police in 2008. He was assaulted during the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack and died the following night, with his death recognized by the U.S. Capitol Police as occurring in the line of duty.
New Jersey's recognition of Brian Sicknick Day not only honors his final act of courage but also his lifetime of service, reaffirming the state's commitment to the rule of law and public servants.