    [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 31 (Friday, February 14, 2025)]
    [Extensions of Remarks]
    [Pages E129-E130]
    From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

            HONORING CORPORAL STEVEN CROWLEY'S SERVICE AND SACRIFICE

                                     ______

                             HON. THOMAS R. SUOZZI

                                  of new york

                        in the house of representatives

                           Friday, February 14, 2025

      Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the extraordinary
    sacrifice of Corporal Steven Crowley, a United States Marine who, at
    the cost of his own life, valiantly safeguarded nearly 100 employees of
    the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan, on November 21, 1979. His
    legacy stands as a testament to the highest ideals of duty, courage,
    and selfless devotion to our Nation.
      Born on March 27, 1959, Corporal Crowley was raised in Port Jefferson
    Station, New York, alongside his four brothers and three sisters. From
    an early age, his character and integrity were evident to all who knew
    him. Those in his community recognized in him a rare and noble spirit--
    one defined by kindness, strength, and an unwavering commitment to
    others. Eileen Carlson, the mother of his best friend, recalled him as
    the ``neighborhood son,'' and his older brother Richard described him
    simply as ``an excellent person.'' A gifted athlete, he excelled in
    cross-country running at Comsewogue High School, demonstrating the same
    perseverance that would later define his service in uniform.
      In 1977, Corporal Crowley answered the call to serve, enlisting in
    the United States Marine Corps. He completed Marine Corps Recruit
    Training, earning the coveted title of Marine, and after two years
    stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, he was selected for the
    prestigious Marine Security Guard program, ultimately being assigned to
    the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad.
      On November 21, 1979, disinformation regarding U.S. involvement in
    the siege of the Grand Mosque of Mecca sparked a violent uprising
    outside the embassy. As the situation escalated into an uncontrollable
    mob, Corporal Crowley remained at his post, steadfast in his duty. As
    waves of rioters arrived--hurling stones, scaling walls, and ultimately
    breaching the compound--he did not waver. The mob, armed and growing in
    number, launched direct assaults, set fire to embassy buildings, and
    pressed forward with deadly intent. Yet, in the face of overwhelming
    chaos, Corporal Crowley stood resolute, holding his post until he was
    tragically struck by sniper fire.
      Because of his unwavering bravery, the embassy employees were able to
    reach safety. For his valor, Corporal Crowley was posthumously awarded
    the Bronze Star Medal and

    [[Page E130]]

    Purple Heart. He now rests among America's heroes at Arlington National
    Cemetery.
      Though 45 years have passed since that fateful day, his memory
    endures. His name and sacrifice have been immortalized: in 2006, the
    Marine Corps Embassy Security Group dedicated a classroom in his honor;
    in 2009, Steven J. Crowley Memorial Park was unveiled in the Town of
    Brookhaven, New York; and in 2023, the Marine Corps Embassy Security
    Group renamed its student barracks in tribute to his legacy.
      Today, I urge my colleagues to reflect on the magnitude of his
    sacrifice. On behalf of a grateful community and a grateful Nation, we
    offer our deepest respect and gratitude to Corporal Steven Crowley. May
    his courage and dedication never be forgotten.

                              ____________________