[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 39 (Wednesday, March 1, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E165]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE LIFE, SERVICE, AND SACRIFICE OF MAJOR GENERAL GARY LYNN 
                                HARRELL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DIANA HARSHBARGER

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 1, 2023

  Mrs. HARSHBARGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, 
service, and sacrifice of Major General Gary Lynn Harrell. The retired 
two-star Green Beret and legendary Delta Force Leader lost his hard-
fought battle with cancer at the age of 71 and was called home to be 
with his savior.
  Gary Harrell was born in Jonesborough, Tennessee to Henry and Louise 
Harrell. Tennessee mourns the loss of a dedicated patriot, loving 
father, husband, and friend; a truly inspirational man.
  Major General Harrell lived a life that most of us have difficulty 
imagining. He hunted the Columbian drug lord, Pablo Escobar, led an 
operation to free American hostages from a prison in Panama, fought our 
enemies in the Gulf, Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan, commanded Delta 
Force operations, and simultaneously raised a family with his wife and 
high school sweetheart, Jennifer.
  Harrell suffered severe injuries in 1993, serving during Operation 
Gothic, a manhunt for Somali warlords that led to the Battle of 
Mogadishu. He recovered from these injuries and rededicated himself to 
another 15 years in uniform, proving his heart for service was stronger 
than external challenges.
  The men who served with Harrell during that operation remember him as 
a respected commander and a trusted leader, bringing commands together 
and leading with honor, quiet dignity, and valor.
  Even after hanging up his uniform, Harrell continued to do good and 
give back, joining the board of Task Force Dagger Special Operations 
Foundation which aids wounded, ill, and injured operators and their 
families.
  He also served on the board of the National Medal of Honor Heritage 
Center in Chattanooga and stayed active in communities close to home, 
chairing the Washington County Republican Party.
  Gary was described by close friends and family as a ``strong, 
Christian patriot'' and a ``giant among giants''. He will be so dearly 
missed and fondly remembered.
  May the legacy of Major General Gary Lynn Harrell live on in the 
hearts of those who loved him and served alongside him. May we always 
remember his courage, sacrifice, and dedication to this great Nation.

                          ____________________