Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. dedicated a memorial roadway and plaque on August 7 to honor Officer David Rose, who died in the line of duty nearly a year earlier while protecting people during a violent incident on campus.
Rose ran toward the danger when violence threatened the campus, protecting fellow officers, colleagues, and strangers from an armed attacker, Kennedy said. Before joining the DeKalb County Police Department, Rose served as a United States Marine with numerous military decorations, including the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.
At his police academy graduation, Rose said the job was about protecting the vulnerable, standing for justice, and being willing to run toward danger when others run away, Kennedy recounted. The secretary emphasized that the memorials serve as a permanent reminder of Rose's choice to place service above self.
Kennedy also recognized all law enforcement officers, first responders, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and CDC Childcare Center staff who responded to the incident. "You acted with courage, discipline, and professionalism under extraordinary circumstances. Because of your action, lives were saved," he said.
