[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 192 (Thursday, December 17, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E3026]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF EDDIE M. BROOKS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RALPH M. HALL

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 16, 2009

  Mr. HALL of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the life 
of Mr. Eddie Brooks, a loving husband and father, veteran of the Korean 
War, and an American hero, who passed away August 18, 2009 at the age 
of 90.
  Hailing from Hope, Arkansas, Mr. Brooks committed twenty years of his 
life in service to the United States Army, serving with the Army 
Medical Service, Medical Detachment, and 555th Field Artillery 
Battalion in the Korean War. Mr. Brooks was sent into combat in Korea 
with no training, but rose to the occasion, demonstrating bravery in 
how he handled himself and defended his comrades.
  Early on in his deployment, his unit was trapped in a river bed where 
they were exposed to extensive shooting and grenades. Mr. Brooks was 
injured when one grenade got under his feet, seriously wounding one 
leg. Corporal Eddie M. Brooks refused evacuation, continuing to treat 
other wounded soldiers and assisting in their removal from the area. 
The United States Army Headquarters 25th Infantry Division stated, 
``When the unit began displacement because of increased hostile action, 
he drove a 2\1/2\ ton truck loaded with critical supplies to safety. 
Corporal Brooks' gallant and selfless devotion to duty reflects the 
greatest credit upon himself and the Army Medical Service.'' When asked 
about his received honors, Mr. Brooks always expressed his feeling that 
he was undeserving but appreciative, believing that others had 
sacrificed more than him.
  For his military service, Mr. Brooks was awarded the Purple Heart, 
Silver Star, Germany Occupation Medal, United Nations Medal, Good 
Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, and the Korean Service Medal.
  At home, Mr. Brooks was the devoted husband to his wife of 58 years, 
Joyce, and the father of four daughters, Brenda, who passed away in 
2005 due to illness, Debra, Charlotte, and Angela. Held in high esteem 
by all who knew him, he left behind a legacy of honor, service, and 
love. Madam Speaker, I ask those here today to join me in paying 
tribute to this great American hero, Mr. Eddie M. Brooks.

                          ____________________