HHS Secretary Kennedy Honors Fallen CDC Officer David Rose
- led a ceremony at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to honor Officer David Rose, who gave his life in the line of duty nearly a year...
- During the ceremony, Secretary Kennedy recalled Officer Rose's actions when violence threatened the CDC facility, noting that the officer ran toward the danger to shield his fellow officers,...
- Before joining the DeKalb County Police Department, Officer Rose served the United States as a Marine with honor and distinction.
CDC Honors Fallen Officer David Rose
On August 7, 2026, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. led a ceremony at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to honor Officer David Rose, who gave his life in the line of duty nearly a year prior while protecting the campus from an armed gunman.
During the ceremony, Secretary Kennedy recalled Officer Rose’s actions when violence threatened the CDC facility, noting that the officer ran toward the danger to shield his fellow officers, colleagues, and strangers. According to the official transcript, Secretary Kennedy emphasized that Rose chose a life of service that required him to accept the possibility of an ultimate sacrifice every time he put on his uniform.
From Marine Corps Service to the Police Academy
Before joining the DeKalb County Police Department, Officer Rose served the United States as a Marine with honor and distinction. According to the CDC records, his military service earned him several decorations, including the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.
His commitment to public safety was also reflected in his statements at his police academy graduation. According to the official HHS Secretary remarks, Officer Rose stated at the DeKalb County Police Academy graduation that the job involved protecting the vulnerable, standing for justice, and running toward danger while others fled. Secretary Kennedy noted that these words served as the standard by which Rose lived his life.
Permanent Memorial Established on Campus
The August 7, 2026 dedication established both a roadway and a memorial plaque on the CDC campus to ensure visitors and staff remember the officer’s choice of service over self. According to the CDC, the permanent markers serve as a reminder that public safety relies on individuals willing to face harm for people they have never met.
Recognition of First Responders
Secretary Kennedy also recognized the broader law enforcement personnel, firefighters, emergency medical staff, security professionals, and emergency management teams who responded during the incident. According to the official remarks, those first responders acted with discipline, courage, and professionalism under extraordinary circumstances to save lives.
