[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 188 (Tuesday, November 14, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1102]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





   CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION FOR PETTY OFFICER CHARLES RUSSO

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. PAT FALLON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 14, 2023

  Mr. FALLON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Petty Officer 
First Class Charles Russo of Rockwall, Texas, and award him a 
Congressional Veteran Commendation. PO1 Russo honorably served in the 
United States Navy during the Gulf War and Global War on Terrorism.
  PO1 Russo has always been drawn to a career in public service. He 
began his Navy career in 1990 onboard the USS Wisconsin battleship and 
the USS Papago ocean tug before advancing to the Naval Criminal 
Investigative Service (NCIS). Here, PO1 Russo worked as an Intelligence 
Specialist and Special Security Officer with a focus in 
counterterrorism. Eventually, he was selected to serve as an Anti-
Terrorism Force Protection Officer. PO1 Russo's work helped to 
strengthen and expand our intelligence community's efforts to 
investigate terrorism. For his exceptional service, PO1 Russo was 
awarded multiple Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, the Armed 
Forces Service Medal with ``M'' device, and many others.
  After his discharge in 2000, PO1 Russo was compelled to return to 
public service after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on our 
Nation. As a Navy Reservist, he was mobilized to assist in constructing 
secure rooms capable of handling sensitive information. He also had the 
opportunity to brief the Joint Chiefs of Staff on matters related to 
the Afghanistan War. For many years after being discharged, PO1 Russo 
has continued to serve our nation in various capacities. After some 
time in defense contracting, he became an FBI Intelligence Analyst. In 
this role, he investigates white-collar crime, researches terrorist 
explosive devices, and fills intelligence gaps where they are needed. I 
commend PO1 Russo's lifelong efforts to safeguard our national security 
and protect those who cannot defend themselves. His selfless service 
has been nothing short of outstanding.
  I am honored to represent PO1 Russo in Texas' 4th Congressional 
District. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran 
Commendation for his service to our Nation and to the people of North 
Texas.

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