[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 198 (Monday, November 15, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1233]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HOMETOWN HERO--MERREL FRANKLIN (FRANK) ADAMS, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BETH VAN DUYNE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 15, 2021

  Ms. VAN DUYNE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Merrel 
Franklin (Frank) Adams, Jr. of Southlake, TX who served in the U.S. 
Marine Corp and USMC Reserves during his 20 years of service.
  Over the weekend, I had the honor of awarding Frank the 2021 
Congressional Veteran Commendation. Frank courageously flew during the 
Vietnam War and served seven months with the infantry as a Forward Air 
Controller, Air Liaison Officer and Battalion Operations Officer.
  Among many of Frank's accomplishments during his service, he was 
awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross while flying the A4 Skyhawk, 
which saved American troops who were trapped by enemy fire, the Bronze 
Star Medal with Valor for repelling enemy attack and causing many enemy 
casualties and 6 Air Medals for missions over North Vietnam, South 
Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Frank also received the Purple Heart for 
injuries he received when he was shot down by enemy ground fire. When 
he ejected, he had to outrun and fire upon the enemy until he was 
rescued by a helicopter.
  It is an honor to recognize the distinguished veterans of TX 24 and 
to preserve their stories for future generations of Americans through 
the Congressional Veteran Commendation. I thank Frank for his service 
and the sacrifices he made to protect our great nation.

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