Dear John,

Robert Maxwell was a true American hero. The Oregonian was a World War II veteran who earned a Medal of Honor for putting his life on the line to save his fellow soldiers while they were defending the values our country cherishes.

In remembrance of his life and service, the entire Oregon congressional delegation in Washington, D.C., is teaming up to rename the veterans clinic in Bend after Mr. Maxwell. To help make that happen, I introduced the Senate version of a bill last week that would authorize the renaming, and Congressman Walden introduced the same bill in the U.S. House of Representatives. I also joined the entire Oregon delegation in sending letters of support for the renaming to committee leaders, encouraging them to ready the bills for votes before the full Senate and House.   

In addition to his Medal of Honor award, Mr. Maxwell reached the rank of Technician Fifth Grade and received a Silver Star, Silver Star Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Star, and two Purple Hearts. In one instance, Mr. Maxwell jumped on an enemy grenade to save the lives of his fellow soldiers -- bravery and selflessness that left him severely maimed. Mr. Maxwell recovered and went on to lead a full life, continuing his service back home in Oregon as a teacher.

Mr. Maxwell’s commitment to service, overseas and back in Oregon, is an important reminder that in the face of unprecedented obstacles, we need to stand up for one another. On behalf of all Oregonians, I am deeply appreciative of his service, and hope that each of us can reaffirm our resolve to embody his selflessness.

All my best,
Jeff