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SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 951
WHEREAS, United States Marine Corps Captain Van Taylor of Dallas, who has served his country with distinction in Iraq, is a source of great pride to his country and his home state; and WHEREAS, Commanding the largest platoon of the 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company, Captain Taylor and his unit foiled several Fedayeen ambushes, assisted in the rescue of United States prisoners of war, and rescued dozens of wounded comrades under fire; he successfully completed every mission assigned and, more importantly, brought all of his troops safely back to their families; and WHEREAS, His unwavering courage and dedication earned Captain Taylor a host of prestigious accolades, including the Navy Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Citation, National Defense Service Medal, and Navy Achievement Medal; and WHEREAS, A Dallas native and honors graduate of Harvard College and Business School, Captain Taylor has worked with McKinsey and Company, Trammell Crow, and Churchill Capital Company as a real estate investment banker; he earned a commission as a second lieutenant at Marine Corps Officer School and in 2002 joined C Company, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion; and WHEREAS, This accomplished Texan also has written and published several articles and is currently working on a book, Brothers by Fire, on his experiences during the Iraq War; and WHEREAS, Americans owe a profound debt of gratitude to Captain Taylor and to all of the country's military personnel, for they are called on to bear great, often unimaginable, burdens, and they render service and sacrifice that is truly beyond measure; and WHEREAS, Through his unfaltering devotion to duty, honor, and this nation, Van Taylor embodies the highest ideals of the United States armed forces, and it is indeed a privilege to join in welcoming him home; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 79th Legislature, hereby commend Van Taylor for his exemplary commitment to his family, his community, and his nation and that he be extended heartfelt best wishes for success and happiness in the coming years; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for Captain Taylor as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Carona ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 20, 2005. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate