French hero of Sydney Mall Attack has been offered Australian citizenship by the PM.
In the wake of the recent tragic knife attack at a Sydney shopping mall, the heroic actions of Damien Guerot, a visiting Frenchman, have caught the attention of Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese.
Guerot, who courageously used a bollard to thwart the attacker and prevent further harm, has been dubbed “bollard man” and hailed as a hero for his selfless intervention during the rampage that claimed six lives and injured several others.
Recognition of Extraordinary Bravery:
During a press briefing on Tuesday, Prime Minister Albanese publicly praised Guerot’s “extraordinary bravery” and expressed gratitude for his courageous act.
Albanese specifically addressed Guerot’s visa situation, stating, “You are welcome here, you are welcome to stay for as long as you like.”
The Prime Minister even suggested that Guerot could be offered Australian citizenship, acknowledging the loss this would mean for France but underscoring the significance of his actions in the face of adversity.
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“This is someone who we would welcome becoming an Australian citizen, although that would of course be a loss for France. We thank him for his extraordinary bravery.”
“It says a lot about the nature of humanity at a time when we are facing difficult issues, that someone who is not a citizen of this country stood bravely at the top of those escalators and stopped this perpetrator from getting onto another floor and potentially inflicting further carnage on citizens,” Albanese said.
Acknowledging Acts of Heroism:
Albanese’s recognition of Guerot’s heroism reflects a broader sentiment of resilience and solidarity among Australians following the tragic incident.
The attack, which occurred in a bustling shopping area in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, left the nation in shock.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the motives behind the attack, although authorities have indicated that it was not linked to terrorism.
Praise for Selfless Acts Amidst Tragedy:
In addition to Guerot’s courageous intervention, Prime Minister Albanese also commended the bravery of policewoman Amy Scott, who acted decisively to confront and neutralize the attacker.
Albanese emphasized that amidst the devastation, there were moments that showcased the best of human character, with individuals like Guerot and Scott exemplifying courage and compassion in the face of danger.
“I think that on Saturday we saw some of the best of human character at the same time as we saw such devastating tragedy,” Albanese said.
Reflecting on Humanity in Crisis:
As French hero of Sydney Mall Attack offered Australian citizenship, the recognition of Guerot’s bravery and the solidarity demonstrated by strangers aiding each other serve as reminders of the resilience and strength of Australian society in confronting adversity.
