[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 191 (Monday, November 1, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Page S7536]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING CHARLES ``CHARLIE'' E. WHITE
Mr. TESTER. Madam President, I rise today to honor the life of
Charles ``Charlie'' E. White, an outstanding American and decorated
Vietnam War veteran.
While Charlie is no longer with us, his legacy lives on. On behalf of
my fellow Americans, I would like extend our deepest gratitude for his
service to this Nation.
Charlie was born on May 21, 1944, in Kansas City, MO, to Owlen and
Lucille White. His parents raised him alongside his brothers Bobby and
Jerry and sister Judy in Independence, MO.
Charlie never shied away from service or sacrifice, and when the
Vietnam war broke out, he quickly answered the call to duty and
enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served our country heroically as a member
of the U.S. Army Special Forces, the Green Berets.
As a sergeant in the Green Berets, he engaged in many perilous combat
missions in Vietnam, including one where he was wounded by an enemy
soldier's bayonet. He donned a scar across his face for the rest of his
life from this encounter and was awarded for his exemplary valor with
multiple service medals.
After the war, Charlie returned to Kansas and settled into his life
as a loving husband and devoted father. Known by many for his hard work
ethic and determination, he led a long career working for BNFS Railway
and provided a great life for his family.
He is survived by his wife Diane, sons Jack and Steve, daughter
Tambra, nine grandchildren, and one great-grandson. His memory lives on
through each of them and through his enduring legacy.
I now have the profound honor of recognizing Charlie White with the
following honors for his bravery in the line of duty: Bronze Star
Medal, Purple Heart Medal, and Silver Star Medal.
These medals represent a small token of our country's appreciation
for Charlie's incredible service and sacrifice.
He is an American hero who has made our country proud, and we owe him
a great debt of gratitude.
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