86R15336 BPG-D

By: Fallon S.C.R. No. 27

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The valiant military service of Bennie G. Adkins is being saluted as part of the 2019 Medal of Honor Host City Weekend in Gainesville; and

WHEREAS, Established in 2001, Gainesville's Medal of Honor Host City Program acknowledges the heroism and sacrifice of individuals who have earned the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military award for valor; each year, local citizens join together to fund travel costs and other expenses to bring medal recipients to the city for a special series of events; and

WHEREAS, Bennie Adkins served the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War in the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces, and attained the rank of sergeant first class; in March 1966, during combat operations at Camp A Shau, he repeatedly braved enemy fire and carried wounded comrades to the dispensary; he was painfully wounded, and most of his crew was injured or killed, but he continued to fight off the much larger hostile force until ordered to evacuate; having destroyed all signal equipment and classified documents, he and a small group battled their way out of the camp and evaded the Vietcong for two days before a helicopter was able to rescue them; and

WHEREAS, Demonstrating extraordinary courage in the line of duty, Bennie Adkins fulfilled the highest ideals of the United States armed forces, and he has earned the lasting admiration of a grateful nation; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the 86th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby pay tribute to Bennie G. Adkins on the occasion of the 2019 Medal of Honor Host City Weekend in Gainesville and commend him for his exemplary service in the defense of our nation; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Adkins as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives and Senate.