THE two police officers who were badly injured in the London Bridge attacks have been praised for their immensely brave actions.<\/p>\n
The family of PC Charlie Guenigault \u2013 the off-duty Met Police officer injured during the London Bridge attack \u2013 have today praised his actions.<\/p>\n
And the unnamed British Transport Police officer who received wounds to his head, arm and leg has said he has been overwhelmed by support from the public.<\/p>\n
PC Guenigault, 25, an emergency response officer on Southwark borough, was off duty on a night out with friends when he ran towards danger on 3 June and was injured as a result.<\/p>\n
PC Guenigault, (pictured) who has been in the job for less than three years, was hospitalised after the attack.<\/p>\n
His family said: “We are extremely proud of Charlie who showed immense bravery on Saturday night.<\/p>\n
“Our family has received numerous messages from friends, colleagues and people around the country sending Charlie good wishes and commending him for his actions.<\/p>\n
“We are very grateful for this and it has provided us with a lot of comfort at this difficult time.<\/p>\n
“Given the opportunity again, Charlie would no doubt do exactly the same if faced with the same situation; helping a fellow police officer in need and protecting the public.<\/p>\n
“He is immensely proud to work for the Metropolitan Police Service and serving the Southwark community, and this is an example of that.<\/p>\n
“Charlie is described by his peers as a dedicated police officer, who is a diligent, hardworking and respected member of his team.<\/p>\n
“We would ask for privacy at this time as we concentrate on Charlie’s recovery.”<\/p>\n
The BTP officer said: \u201cLike every police officer who responded, I was simply doing my job. I didn\u2019t expect the level of love and well wishes I have received.<\/p>\n
\u201cI feel like I did what any other person would have done. I want to say sorry to the families that lost their loved ones. I\u2019m so sorry I couldn\u2019t do more and I want you to know I did everything I could.<\/p>\n
\u201cI am so proud of my colleagues from BTP and everyone from the other emergency services who were on shift that night and did everything they could in the face of danger. I especially want to thank the officers who saved my life and kept me alive. I wouldn\u2019t be here if it weren\u2019t for them.<\/p>\n
\u201c[That] night changed my life, like I\u2019m sure it has for many others. My thoughts are with the people who died in the attack, but also with those that were injured and are recovering in hospital, including the three other officers that were injured, and all the members of the public who rushed to help.\u201d<\/p>\n
BTP Chief Constable Paul Crowther said: \u201cHaving visited the PC in hospital a number of times and hearing first-hand the incredible account of his actions on Saturday night, I am proud that he is part of the BTP family.<\/p>\n
\u201cI know everyone at the force is behind him and his family as he continues his recovery.\u201d<\/p>\n