[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 147 (Friday, September 20, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H5543]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING EDWARD ROSS NEWTON FOR HIS HEROISM
(Mr. OWENS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1
minute.)
Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Edward Ross Newton, a
remarkable Utahn who served his country with distinction and honor
during the Vietnam war.
Edward, known affectionately as Ed to his family and friends, was
born and raised in a small, tight-knit community in Juab County, Utah.
With a love of his homeland embedded deep in his heart, Ed traded the
peaceful farmlands of Mona, Utah, for the treacherous battlefields of
Vietnam.
It was on the fateful day of October 16, 1969, that Ed's bravery
would define his legacy. While serving as a rifleman in the 82nd
Airborne Division, Ed and his fellow soldiers were engaged in a search
operation in the jungles of Vietnam. Suddenly, they came under direct
and intense enemy fire.
In the chaos of battle, Ed witnessed his platoon leader and medic
fall under the hail of bullets. Without a moment's hesitation and with
complete disregard for his own safety, Ed sprang into action.
Running toward the deadly barrage, Ed began to fire at the enemy
position, enabling the medic to administer aid to the wounded.
Standing in the open, under the hail of enemy bullets, Ed suffered a
grievous neck wound, but even as he was forced to his knees, he refused
to retreat. His focus was solely on the lives of his comrades.
For his extraordinary valor, Ed Ross Newton was awarded the Bronze
Star medal with a V for valor, and he was also honored with a Purple
Heart. These decorations serve as a testament to his bravery, devotion
to duty, and deep concern for his fellow soldiers.
Mr. Speaker, Ed Ross Newton's legacy is one of unparalleled courage
and sacrifice. His story is a powerful reminder of the values that
define our Nation, the unwavering commitment to protect and serve
others, even at great cost.
May God bless Edward Ross Newton and all those who serve our great
Nation.
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