Cabarrus Today

President Joseph R. Biden awarded the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor to four Concord Police Officers in Washington, D.C., recognizing their acts of extraordinary valor. The officers honored were Officer Paul Stackenwalt, Officer Kyle Baker, former Officer Kaleb Robinson, and posthumously, Officer Jason N. Shuping.

The officers were commended for their actions during a December 16, 2020 incident when they responded to a vehicle crash and faced gunfire at a busy retail area. Officer Jason N. Shuping was killed during the exchange of gunfire.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland initiated the ceremony by paying tribute to Officer Shuping and his family. “We know that nothing will ever be enough to recognize all that you have lost,” Garland said, referring to the public safety officers as “true heroes” who demonstrated courage by risking their lives.

President Biden praised the Concord police officers for their bravery and commitment. “You’re the heart and soul and the very spine of this country and your communities,” he stated.

During the event, President Biden also acknowledged the families of fallen Concord Police Officer Jason Shuping and fallen 2nd Lieutenant Jared Lloyd from Spring Valley, NY Fire Department. He expressed gratitude towards public safety officers and their families for understanding the risks involved in their duty.

The full Medal of Valor ceremony can be viewed on the White House YouTube channel or further details can be found on the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance website.