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