Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Herschel Ryan, an incredible individual who is not just a close personal friend but a true American hero. My personal experiences with Herschel Ryan started when I was a small child, but the most poignant moment that I ever had with him was when he chaperoned on our church mission trip in the seventh grade. It was there that he took a few minutes and shared with me his personal experiences from the Vietnam war. Mr. Herschel was a talented pilot in the Army, achieving the rank of captain and recognition for his skills in flying helicopter missions. It was while he was supporting a combat operation on February 9, 1968, that his flight encountered intense enemy fire, and he took a direct hit. His injuries were so severe that he would ultimately lose his left hand and eye, yet he still managed to direct his flight back to safety. For his gallantry and bravery, he was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Air Medal with 25 oak leaf clusters. Mr. Speaker, hearing Mr. Herschel's story was formational for me. It was the first time I had ever heard a personal perspective from a veteran. What a gift he gave to me that day. In this Chamber, we often talk about the need to honor our veterans and the desire to celebrate our heroes. When I think of those who served and sacrificed, I think of Herschel Ryan, a glowing example of some of the finest men and women this country has ever produced.…”