[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 63 (Tuesday, May 4, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S4723]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    COMMEMORATING BRANDON BURLSWORTH

 Mr. HUTCHINSON. Mr. President, it is not often that I rise to 
speak about specific individuals, but the individual I want to talk 
about today was a man of extraordinary character, Brandon Burlsworth.
  Last Wednesday, I was saddened to learn about the tragic and untimely 
death of Brandon Burlsworth. Brandon was only 22 years old when a car 
accident ended his life. While his time on this earth was short, his 
impact on our world will be long lasting. Brandon was a hero to the 
community of Harrison, the Razorback family, and the entire state of 
Arkansas.
  Brandon lived the kind of life that would make any parent proud. He 
led a wholesome life, and was a devout Christian who used his faith and 
strong work ethic to become a success in every facet of life.
  Brandon was not a highly recruited athlete coming out of Harrison 
High School. Several small colleges expressed interest in him, but 
Brandon had his sights on walking on at Fayetteville and becoming a 
Razorback. While the odds were long, Brandon worked hard and not only 
made the team, but went on to start for the Razorbacks for three years. 
Last year, he earned All-American honors, while leading Arkansas to the 
SEC West Co-Championship and a berth in the Citrus Bowl. Last month, 
the Indianapolis Colts selected Brandon in the third round of the 
National Football League draft.
  Not only was Brandon a disciplined player on the field, he was an 
outstanding student in the classroom as well. Brandon earned a 
bachelor's degree in marketing management and a master's in business 
administration, all in 4\1/2\ years. In addition, he was a three time 
member of the SEC Academic Honor Roll.
  Today, newspapers and newscasts are often filled with stories about 
athletes and their brushes with the law. Brandon became a symbol of how 
student athletes should conduct themselves. The manner in which he 
conducted himself on and off the field will be Brandon's legacy. He was 
a young man of great character and dedication. While I recognize that 
words alone provide little comfort in times such as these, I hope that 
Brandon's family knows how many lives this young man has 
touched.

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