[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 212 (Tuesday, December 16, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1211]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE SERVICE OF BRANDON CROOK

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN R. CARTER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 16, 2025

  Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Brandon Crook has devoted his life 
to caring for service members, veterans, and their families, both in 
and out of uniform. His commitment to others reflects the finest 
traditions of the United States Navy, and I am honored to recognize him 
with a Congressional Veteran Commendation.
  Mr. Crook entered the Navy in 2009 as a Seaman Recruit and trained as 
a Hospital Corpsman. He served at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton and 
Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms, where he supported medical operations 
and strengthened the health and readiness of the force. Later, with the 
1st Marine Division, he served as the medical readiness leader for more 
than 1,800 Marines and Sailors, raising readiness to 97 percent and 
preparing units for deployment. His performance earned him multiple 
awards, including two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.
  After completing his military service, Mr. Crook continued to support 
the military community through Heroes Night Out (HNO). Beginning as a 
volunteer in 2018 and now serving as Executive Director, he has helped 
transform HNO into one of Central Texas's most impactful veteran 
service organizations. Today, HNO reaches more than 7,500 veterans and 
family members annually and hosts over 145 events each year. Under his 
leadership, the organization launched outdoor programming, expanded 
holiday meal support, created a Women Veterans Program, and built 
strong partnerships across the region. He has also secured more than 
$1.7 million in funding, contributing to HNO's recognition as the 
Rising Star Non-Profit of the Year in 2023.
  Brandon Crook's work has strengthened countless lives and families, I 
am grateful for his service to our Nation and for his ongoing mission 
to support those who have worn the uniform.

                          ____________________