Awarding Commander Bryan Crittendon A Congressional Veteran Commendation

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Commander Bryan Crittendon with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Navy, United States Marine Corps, and State Guard exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Commander Crittendon is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Commander Crittendon served as a transport helicopter pilot during his time in the Marine Corps where he assumed the titles of Captain and Pilot. His service spanned the globe protecting American Sovereignty and the Constitution. His skill set and passion were practiced in service across: Beirut, Southern Europe, Iraq, the Persian Gulf, and Afghanistan.

Commander Crittendon ministered to many servicemen and their families as a Military Chaplain. His original mission was to fly, his service in ministry began after the 9/11 attack to preach to Marines in combat. Commander Crittendon's work as a chaplain extended across multiple positions including: USMC Battalion Chaplain, USMC Wing Chaplain, U.S. Coast Guard Chaplain, Naval Air Station Fort Worth Command Chaplain, and Naval Air Station Pensacola Command Chaplain.

Commander Crittendon continues to commit his life to service even after his discharge. While supporting a local rural church, his desire to aid fellow veterans has led him to become a member of the Marine Corps League. Despite being 70 percent disabled, Commander Crittendon has become a certified Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Trainor.

I am beyond honored to have Commander Crittendon in Texas' 4th Congressional district and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source