86R15340 SME-D
By: Fallon S.C.R. No. 42
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The valiant military service of Donald E. Ballard is
being saluted as part of the 2019 Medal of Honor Host City Weekend
in Gainesville; and
WHEREAS, Established in 2001, Gainesville's Medal of Honor
Host City Program acknowledges the heroism and sacrifice of
individuals who have earned the Medal of Honor, the nation's
highest military award for valor; each year, local citizens join
together to fund travel costs and other expenses to bring medal
recipients to the city for a special series of events; and
WHEREAS, A member of the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War,
Hospital Corpsman Second Class Ballard risked his life without
hesitation to render aid to his comrades; during a North Vietnamese
ambush, he moved through enemy fire to tend to a wounded marine; as
he and his fellow marines transported the injured man to safety, a
concealed enemy soldier threw a hand grenade; HC2c Ballard shouted
a warning and threw himself on the grenade to protect his comrades
from the blast; fortunately, it failed to detonate, and he was able
to resume treating casualties; and
WHEREAS, Demonstrating extraordinary courage in the line of
duty, Donald Ballard fulfilled the highest ideals of the United
States armed forces, and he has earned the lasting admiration of a
grateful nation; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 86th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby pay tribute to Donald E. Ballard on the occasion of the 2019
Medal of Honor Host City Weekend in Gainesville and commend him for
his exemplary service in the defense of our nation; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Mr. Ballard as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives and Senate.