[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 153 (Thursday, September 21, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E875-E876]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING ELLEN M. BROOKS WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION

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                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 21, 2023

  Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to present Ellen M. Brooks of 
Crockett, Texas,

[[Page E876]]

with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Her service to this nation 
and community speaks to the best of Texas.
  Ellen enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1994. Recognizing 
her innate leadership capabilities, the Air Force sent her to officer 
training after only two and a half years as an enlisted Airman. During 
the five years she served as a commissioned officer, Ellen rose to the 
rank of Captain. Before leaving the U.S. Air Force in 1998, she served 
as Commander of a communications unit in Alaska. During her active 
service she was recognized with the Air Force Commendation Medal w/1 
device, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award w/1 device, and the 
National Defense Service Medal, together with a Good Conduct Medal, Air 
Force Longevity Service Award, Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, and 
Air Force Training Ribbon w/1 device.
  Ellen has given much to her community. In 2007 she joined the 
Crockett Noon Lions Club and was instrumental in forming the Leo Club 
where she served as Sponsor. She established a new Evening Lions Club 
and served as its first President. She has spent countless hours 
investing in the lives of the members and youth, teaching leadership, 
character, and kindness. She is a member of First United Methodist 
Church. Whether working to keep her community clean or distributing 
food to the needy, Ellen can always be counted on. In 2020, the 
Crockett Area Chamber of Commerce recognized Ellen's service to the 
community with its highest honor, Citizen of the Year.
  Her leadership will have a long-lasting effect on young people for 
years to come--and it is my honor to award Ellen M. Brooks of Crockett, 
Texas, a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

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