[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 190 (Thursday, October 28, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1162-E1163]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     RECOGNIZING NAVY SEAL RYAN PARROTT, RECIPIENT OF TEXAS' THIRD 
     CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 2021 CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. VAN TAYLOR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 28, 2021

  Mr. TAYLOR. Madam Speaker, today, it is my privilege to honor fifteen 
distinguished military veterans from Texas' Third Congressional 
District who answered the call to serve their Nation honorably, both in 
uniform and following their return to civilian life. The recipients of 
the 2021 Congressional Veteran Commendation exemplify the time-honored 
qualities of patriotism, service before self, and bold leadership. 
Following their time in service, their efforts in our community have 
earned these fine individuals recognition as the recipients of this 
prestigious commendation. Their

[[Page E1163]]

stories of sacrifice will encourage future generations to pursue a life 
dedicated to the very values we cherish as Americans: faith, freedom, 
and democracy. One such hero is Navy Seal Ryan Parrott of Allen, Texas.
  Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Ryan ``Birdman'' Parrott enlisted 
in the U.S. Navy after watching the Twin Towers fall on September 11, 
2001. Ryan served eight years as a Navy SEAL, attached to Team Seven. 
During his time in service, he completed three combat tours in Iraq 
prior to being assigned to Advanced Training Command as an instructor. 
In 2005, his life would forever change. While manning a gun turret of a 
Humvee in enemy territory, his vehicle was struck by an improvised 
explosive device. Parrott was thrown from the vehicle and along with 
his teammates, suffered devastating burns and a long road to recovery.
  For his actions, Parrott was awarded the National Defense Service 
Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Navy 
and Marine Corps Achievement Medal w/Combat ``V'', Sea Service 
Deployment Ribbon, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Army and Navy Commendation 
Medals, and a Purple Heart.
  After his discharge, Ryan moved to Dallas and after connecting with 
other veterans who suffered similar injuries, he established Sons of 
the Flag in order to support those in the military community, first 
responders, and civilians suffering from traumatic burns. Under his 
leadership, the organization has raised more than $5 million to assist 
burn victims and provide medical fellowships to facilitate research, 
development, and treatment. Ryan is also the Founder of the Bird's Eye 
View Project which leverages extreme sports to raise awareness for the 
extreme needs of veterans and first responders.
  Ryan and his wife, Vlada, are the proud parents of two sons named 
after the couple's grandfathers, who also served in the military. Navy 
SEAL Ryan ``Birdman'' Parrott is a shining example of how he has used 
adversity to serve the community, particularly those who have 
experienced life altering injuries, as he empower others to lead a life 
on mission.
  Today a grateful Nation thanks Mr. Parrott for his exceptional 
service and congratulates him on this recognition. May his steadfast 
example of leadership inspire others to live a life of service to a 
cause greater than themselves. It is my extreme honor to award him the 
2021 Congressional Veteran Commendation for the Third District of 
Texas.

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