Honoring a Local Hero

SPC Barut and his family joined by Reps. Har, Aquino, and Cullen

The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have resulted in more than 50,000 of our service women and men returning home after having been wounded in action. The number itself is staggering and each of these courageous Americans deserves our gratitude and appreciation for their sacrifice. Reps. Henry Aquino and Ty Cullen (Chair and Vice Chair of the Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs) took the time to recognize and honor Waipahu native, Purple Heart and Combat Action Badge recipient SPC Edward Barut.

Rep. Aquino and Rep. Cullen presenting SPC Barut with a House Resolution

On October 26, 2011, SPC Barut's convoy was ambushed twice while traveling through Afghanistan's Tangi Valley. The complex attack by insurgents included the use of rocket propelled grenades, improvised explosive devices, and small arms fire. The 45 minute battle left 8 American soldiers, including SPC Barut, wounded.

Speaker Say thanking SPC Barut

SPC Barut was joined at the Capitol by his family and fiance. After Rep. Aquino presented SPC Barut with a House Resolution and Certificate recognizing his sacrifice to the nation, Speaker Say ordered a recess to allow members of the house to personally thank SPC Barut on the House Floor.