80R5901 JH-D

By: Chisum H.R. No. 244

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, The Honorable Frank J. Corte, Jr., has been awarded a Bronze Star Medal, the nation's fourth highest combat award, for his meritorious service in Iraq; and

WHEREAS, From January through August 2006, Colonel Corte was a detachment commander and the officer in charge of the Governance Support Team of the 3D Civil Affairs Group based in Al Anbar Province in Iraq; in that capacity, he served as an advisor and mentor to the provincial governor, and his vigilant supervision of the Provincial Reconstruction Development Committee was essential in the planning, approval, and continuation of vital rebuilding projects that benefited more than a million Iraqis in the region; and

WHEREAS, Colonel Corte's duties were carried out in what is often considered one of the most volatile areas of Iraq; in completing his appointed mission, he and the members of his team encountered insurgent forces who engaged in violent attacks against U.S. forces, the provincial government, and the population in general; and

WHEREAS, Rising to the challenge of these difficult circumstances, this courageous officer was steadfast in his efforts to improve government services and infrastructure; moreover, his inspiring leadership helped encourage the governor, the provincial council, and the directors general of Al Anbar Province to uphold the democratic reforms instituted in the region and to carry on the reconstruction process; and

WHEREAS, Valorous service of this type has been a hallmark of Frank Corte's life; he first joined the Marine Corps in 1982, when he was commissioned as a second lieutenant and served three years of active duty; he then became a member of the Marine Corps Reserve and was activated for the Gulf War in addition to carrying out international assignments in locations such as Egypt and South Korea; and

WHEREAS, Colonel Corte's 2006 tour of duty in Iraq represents yet another admirable achievement for this exceptional military and civilian leader, and the members of this chamber take great pleasure in paying tribute to Frank Corte, Jr., for upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and serving this nation with honor and distinction; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 80th Texas Legislature hereby congratulate the Honorable Frank Corte, Jr., on his receipt of the Bronze Star Medal for his actions in Iraq and commend him for his exemplary service as a member of the United States Armed Forces; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Colonel Corte as an expression of high regard by his colleagues in the Texas House of Representatives.