The word hero gets tossed around a lot these day but Sgt. Kimberly Munley, the civilian police officer who ended the Fort Hood gunman’s violent rampage has certainly earned the title:
The hero cop who ended the bloody rampage at Fort Hood by pumping four bullets into the crazed gunman even though she was wounded is known for her toughness, friends say.
Before relocating to Texas, civilian police Sgt. Kimberly Munley spent about five years as a cop in North Carolina where she forged a reputation as a no-nonsense officer.
“I’d like to say I’m surprised, but I’m really not,” said close friend Drew Peterson, 27.
“She was born and bred to be a police officer. If you were ever to be in a fight, she’d be the first person to stand up next to you and back you up. She’s a tough cookie.”
Munley’s toughness and grace under pressure were on display Thursday when she and her partner responded within three minutes of reported gunfire, said Army Lt. Gen. Bob Cone.
Munley, who had been trained in active-response tactics, rushed into the building and confronted the shooter as he was turning a corner, Cone said.
“It was an amazing and an aggressive performance by this police officer,” Cone said.
Munley was only a few feet from Army psychiatrist Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan when she opened fire.
Sgt. Munley was wounded in the exchange of gunfire and is reported to be stable condition. If it wasn’t for her bold and decisive actions there’s no telling how many more soldiers that murderous lunatic would have killed.
Bravo Zulu Sergeant, you and your family are in our thoughts and prays. As is everyone affected by yesterday’s events. May God Bless you all.