National Network for Equitable Library Service

Set against the extraordinary events of January 6, 2021, Aquilino Gonell's inspirational memoir is rooted in the joys and struggles of the immigrant experience that have long defined the American experiment. Aquilino Gonell came to the United States from the Dominican Republic as a young boy. Although he spoke no English, he dedicated himself to his adopted land, striving for the American dream. Determined to be a success story, he joined the army to pay for college. He saw action in Iraq and returned home with PTSD. Believing in the promise of the government, he focused on healing himself and supporting his family. His hard work paid off when he landed a coveted position with the United States Capitol Police and rose to the rank of sergeant. January 6, 2021, changed everything. When insurrectionists stormed the Capitol, Gonell bravely faced down the mob attempting to thwart the peaceful transfer of power. The brutal injuries he sustained that day ended his law enforcement career. But when some of the very people he had risked his life to protect denied the truth of that day, he chose to speak out against the injustice done to him and to the country. Chronicling what it means to live a life of conviction, one that adheres to the best ideas of democracy, American Shield is a bold testament to the power of truth, justice, and accountability from a highly decorated officer and immigrant who exemplifies the greatest aspirations of a grateful nation.