'Houston's first-ever Medal of Valor recipient': White House honors officer who prevented shooting at Galleria

A Houston police officer visited the White House on Thursday where President Joe Biden bestowed upon him the country’s highest honor for bravery displayed by a public safety officer.

Kendrick Simpo, a sergeant with the Houston Police Department (HPD), was among the cadre of law enforcement officials to receive the Medal of Valor from Biden.

Houston CW affiliate KIAH reported that Simpo earned the accolade for stopping a man brandishing an assault weapon at The Galleria early last year.

Simpo was working an extra job at the upscale shopping center in Uptown Houston when he heard a call about a suspect in question.

According to KIAH, the off-duty officer tracked down the man and successfully disarmed him without a shot fired from the AR-15.

“Houston's first-ever Medal of Valor recipient … We are proud of you, Sgt. Simpo!” HPD said in a tweet.

Per a report from Houston FOX affiliate KRIV, following the suspect’s arrest, authorities discovered more than 120 rounds of ammunition and a handgun in his possession.

"I am extremely proud of Sgt. Simpo,” Houston Chief of Police Troy Finner, who accompanied Simpo to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., said, the station reported. “His courageous action exemplifies the dedication of every person in the Houston Police Department and the mission to protect and serve the whole community.”

According to a White House transcript of the president’s speech, nine people, including Simpo, were honored.

“When asked about his heroism, Sergeant Simpo said, ‘I know what I signed up for,’” Biden said.

Simpo dedicated the medal to his comrades in blue.

"This is for the 5,200 Houston police officers,” he said, KRIV reported. “I may be the first officer from Houston to receive this great award, but more will follow. I am proud of the recognition this award shines on our department and the many dedicated officers that work there.”