Second Club Q Hero Issues Message To LGBTQ Youth: “Be Brave, When You Come Out, Come Out Swinging”

Denver’s CBS affiliate reports:

Among the heroes identified by witnesses and officials in the Club Q shooting was U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Thomas James, who reportedly charged the shooter with Richard Fierro and possibly others at the bar.

James, through a Centura Heath spokesman, issued a statement Sunday for the first time since the shooting at the Colorado Springs. “I simply wanted to save the family I found,” James said. “If I had my way, I would shield everyone I could from the nonsensical acts of hate in the world, but I am only one person.”

“To the youth, I say be brave. Your family is out there. You are loved and valued. So when you come out of the closet, come out swinging.”

CNN reports:

James remains in stable condition at Centura Penrose Hospital, according to an update from the hospital. The hospital said he is focusing on his recovery and will not be conducting media interviews at this time.

The comments represent his first public statement since he and Richard Fierro, an Army veteran, helped take down a shooter firing at patrons at an LGBTQ nightclub in Colorado on November 19. Five people were killed and at least 19 were wounded in the attack, according to police.

The shooter was tackled to the ground by Fierro, who had been celebrating a birthday at the club with family and friends. Another person, identified by police as James, pushed a rifle out of the shooter’s reach while Fierro struck and subdued the shooter with the other firearm they had, a handgun.

The photo below is via the US Navy.