In Honor of Matthew Bradford

Floor Speech

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Mr. BARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a unique and special man, Corporal (Ret.) Matthew Bradford. Matthew is stepping down as Veterans Outreach Coordinator in my District office.

Matthew enlisted in the United States Marine Corps when he graduated from high school and was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, Echo Company, 2nd Platoon. He was deployed to Iraq in 2006, and on January 18, 2007 he was injured by an Improvised Explosive Device. His severe injuries left him a blind double amputee. Matthew persevered and learned to overcome and adapt from his injuries. Matthew became the first blind amputee in history to re-enlist in the Marine Corps in 2010. On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank him for his service, his sacrifice, and his patriotism.

Matthew Bradford is a very determined individual. After his service with the Marine Corps ended, he married his ``Warrior Princess'' Amanda. Together they have three children. Through hard work and determination, Matthew graduated from the University of Kentucky. Matthew has found his purpose in motivating and encouraging others to overcome difficult obstacles. He spends a great deal of time speaking to groups and individuals and participating in challenging athletic events such as marathons, skydiving, surfing, hunting, and climbing 7000 feet up Mt. Rainier.

Matthew came to work in the Sixth Congressional District office in the spring of 2017, serving first as a college intern, then as a National Security Fellow, and lastly as the Veterans Outreach Coordinator. In his work in the district office, Matthew has been a strong advocate for veterans. He worked with our Veterans Coalition and it has grown tremendously under his leadership. Matthew has worked on many outreach initiatives, including a Facebook page, and has worked diligently to improve the lives of America's veterans. His work with veterans has made quite a difference. His passion, his humor, and his determination will be greatly missed.

Matthew has earned many honors, including the Purple Heart Medal, the George Van Cleve Military Leadership Award, the Gary Sinise Hope for the Warriors Award, and induction into the Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame. He was also invited by President Trump to attend the 2018 State of the Union Address. In his position in the Sixth District office, he has earned the respect of all his co-workers and of all the constituents with whom he interacted. He leaves a lasting legacy as a servant leader.

I am honored to call Matthew a loyal and trusted friend. I wish him all the best as he moves on to other interests. I thank Corporal Bradford for his friendship, his tireless work on behalf of the people of the Sixth District, and his outstanding service to our country.

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