**DOWNLOADABLE VIDEO: On U.S. House Floor, Spanberger Honors World War II Veteran & Bronze Star Medal Recipient Staff Sergeant Richard Francis Brani**

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger recognized Staff Sergeant Richard Francis Brani.

Mr. Brani is a U.S. Army Veteran from Culpeper who served during World War II. Last month, Mr. Brani was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his gallantry during the Battle of the Bulge — a critical turning point during the war.

Click here to watch her remarks on the floor of the U.S. House, and a full transcript of her comments is below.

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Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Staff Sergeant Richard Francis Brani, a U.S. Army Veteran who served during World War II — and was recently awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his gallantry during the Battle of the Bulge.

Nearly 80 years ago, Mr. Brani valiantly served in three campaigns in the European Theater, including on the Western Front, where he distinguished himself as part of the 84th Infantry Division “Railsplitters.”

From the beaches of Normandy to the forests of the Ardennes, Mr. Brani and his regiment faced freezing temperatures, fierce enemy fire, and insurmountable odds as they warded off German forces.

Amidst trials that tested their resolve, their bravery never wavered.

Last month — and at 100 years old — Mr. Brani was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for demonstrating extraordinary heroism during this critical turning point in World War II.

His service is a reminder of the sacrifices made by an entire generation — the sacrifices that led to the freedoms we hold dear today.

On behalf of a grateful nation, I stand before the U.S. House of Representatives to thank Staff Sergeant Richard Francis Brani for his devoted service to our extraordinary country.

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