[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 40 (Monday, March 3, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H926]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING A DECORATED GREEN BERET, ARMY SERGEANT FIRST CLASS MELVIN 
                                 MORRIS

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Florida (Mr. Haridopolos) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor a resident of 
Cocoa, Florida, a true American hero and decorated Green Beret, Army 
Sergeant First Class Melvin Morris. His extraordinary courage in 
Vietnam reflects the very best of our Nation's values.
  In 1969, while leading his Special Forces team, then-Staff Sergeant 
Morris braved relentless enemy fire to recover a fallen comrade and 
safeguard classified information for our country.
  Despite being shot many times, he fought through enemy positions, 
ensuring his mission's success. For his valor, he received the 
Distinguished Service Cross, but history had more to say.
  Decades later, a review of military records rightfully upgraded his 
honor.
  In 2014, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, recognizing the courage 
and sacrifice that may have been overlooked for too long.
  Sergeant Morris' service did not end in combat. He continued to 
inspire future generations, reminding us that a nation must always 
recognize its heroes.
  Mr. Speaker, today, I salute Sergeant First Class Melvin Morris and 
his unwavering dedication to duty.

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