[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 156 (Friday, September 10, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E967]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MR. BRYAN O'BRIEN

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                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 10, 2021

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of 
Mr. Bryan O'Brien, a recently-departed constituent of mine who served 
in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. Due to 
contentious public debate on our nation's involvement in the war, 
returning Veterans were denied the appropriate recognition for their 
service. Thankfully, Mr. O'Brien and his fellow service members did not 
accept this unfair mistreatment. They advocated for one another and for 
future generations to ensure all returning service members are treated 
with respect and honor, regardless of the public opinion of the war 
itself. They have been quite successful in this endeavor. Bryan was a 
proud Member of the SPC Zachary L. Shannon Memorial VFW Post 2550 in 
Dunedin, Florida. He also served as the national sergeant at arms for 
the VFW. He was a founding member and past vice-president of the 
Heritage Springs Veterans Club. A true patriot, Bryan loved his country 
and made an indelible mark on both our community and those who had the 
privilege of knowing him. Indeed, Bryan leaves behind a legacy of 
service and sacrifice. May his memory be eternal! My thoughts and 
prayers are with his widow, Patricia, and his three children: McKenzie 
O'Brien, Craig Wagner, and Robert Wagner. Thank you, I yield back my 
time.

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