S.C.R. No. 49
SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, United States Air Force Captain Robert Russell
Barnett was laid to rest at the Texas State Cemetery on April 7,
2017, the 51st anniversary of the day that he was killed in action
during the Vietnam War; and
WHEREAS, A member of the 8th Bomber Squadron, Captain Barnett
was flying a classified mission when his aircraft was shot down over
Laos in 1966; it was nearly 40 years before the United States
military was able to locate the crash site and 50 before his body
was recovered; thanks to the dedicated and exhaustive work of those
who took part in this effort, he is now able to be buried with full
military honors in the state and country he loved; and
WHEREAS, The son of Robert and Zelma Barnett, Russell Barnett
was born on October 5, 1933, and raised in Gladewater; he graduated
from Gladewater High School, where he played for the Bears football
team; his skill on the gridiron earned him a football scholarship to
Baylor University, and after completing his degree there, he
enlisted in the United States Air Force; flying under the call sign
"Bear," his nickname, he served 10 years in the air force and was
proud to be fighting to protect our freedoms; when he passed away at
age 32, he left behind two cherished daughters, Donna and Debra; and
WHEREAS, Captain Russell Barnett served with honor, courage,
and patriotism, embodying the highest ideals of the United States
armed forces, and his fellow citizens owe him a debt of gratitude
and remembrance that the passage of time can never diminish; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 85th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby pay special tribute to the memory of Captain Robert Russell
Barnett and extend to his loved ones sincere condolences for the
loss of this valiant Texan; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for his family and that when the Texas Senate and House of
Representatives adjourn this day, they do so in memory of Captain
Russell Barnett.
______________________________ ______________________________
President of the Senate Speaker of the House
I hereby certify that S.C.R. No. 49 was adopted by the Senate
on April 11, 2017.
______________________________
Secretary of the Senate
I hereby certify that S.C.R. No. 49 was adopted by the House
on May 19, 2017.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House
Approved:
______________________________
Date
______________________________
Governor