[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 202 (Thursday, December 7, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S5849]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO SPECIALIST MATT BRANNON

 Mr. TUBERVILLE. Mr. President, many of our veterans carry both 
visible and invisible scars from their time in the military. This is 
true for U.S. Army SPC Matt Brannon of Boaz. Matt vividly remembers, as 
a young man, watching the events of 9/11 unfold. This inspired him to 
join the military in 2007 after graduating from Boaz High School. Matt 
was wounded in action by an RPG explosion, receiving wounds to his 
face, arms, and hands. He continued to fight even after sustaining 
injuries, saving the lives of many of his fellow soldiers. Matt was 
awarded a Purple Heart for his heroic actions.
  In 2012, he returned home to Boaz, where he began working with the 
local police department. As Matt adjusted to living with his battle 
scars, he found healing through the outdoors. He decided to use his 
experience to help veterans like him who were struggling with the 
after-effects of war. This led him to bring Wounded Warriors in Action 
to the region. Each year, he helps veterans from Alabama--and across 
the Nation--who served in combat, find healing through hunting and 
fishing.
  Matt also serves as a narcotics agent with the Bureau of Special 
Investigations arm of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. He is on the 
frontlines keeping our communities safe from deadly drugs like 
fentanyl.
  Alabama is grateful for Matt's service. It is my honor to recognize 
Matt Brannon as the December Veteran of the Month.

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