[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 97 (Monday, June 5, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E515]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





HONORING CORPORAL RUSSELL ``RUSTY'' BROWN FOR HIS HONORABLE SERVICE AND 
                               SACRIFICE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 5, 2023

  Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of U.S. 
Army Corporal Russell ``Rusty'' Brown. CPL Brown served in the Vietnam 
War from 1968 to 1970, and was awarded a Purple Heart for his honorable 
service.
  CPL Brown was born in Little Falls, NY, to Evan and Doris Brown. 
Raised in Fort Plain with his many siblings, CPL Brown's brothers Les, 
Ray, and Walt also served in the U.S. Army. While in Vietnam, CPL Brown 
was on patrol to set up an ambush. Tragedy struck when a member of CPL 
Brown's unit stepped on a landmine, severely wounding CPL Brown with 
shrapnel and killing his fellow soldier. For his sacrifice, CPL Brown 
earned the esteemed Purple Heart award, in addition to the National 
Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, 
and the Marksman Badge Rifle M16.
  Following his honorable service in Vietnam, he immediately continued 
his service to our nation and his community. Rusty married his beloved 
wife Billie; both had deep roots in Montgomery County. In 1970, CPL 
Brown joined the Morris J. Edwards American Legion Post 168 in Saint 
Johnsville. As a member for over 50 years, CPL Brown has assisted other 
veterans in their journey to re-acclimate to civilian life. CPL Brown 
continues this practice as a pillar of support for American 
servicemembers as they struggle with their personal trials. The Morris 
J. Edwards American Legion Post 168 has set a beautiful example of how 
to celebrate the amazing and heroic individuals that served our 
country. By decorating the village of Saint Johnsville with 379 
`hometown hero' banners, the village will continue to honor local 
heroes each and every day. CPL Brown's banner can be found on St. 
Johnsville's Bridge Street.
  On behalf of New York's 21st District, it is my honor to recognize 
and honor the service and achievements of CPL Rusty Brown.

                          ____________________