[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.

                          ____________________