AUSTIN — Today, Senate Bill 193, authored by Senator Brandon Creighton (R-Conroe) passed the Texas Senate. This bill creates a specialty license plate for recipients of the Soldier's, Navy & Marine Corps, Airman's and Coast Guard Medals.

"One of my top priorities is to recognize and honor our veteran's for their incredible acts of valor," said Senator Creighton. "These medals are the highest commendation for acts of valor in a non-combat situation."

"On November 5, 2009, a shooting spree at Fort Hood resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals and the injuries of 30 more," continued Senator Creighton. "Eight members of our military who were present on that tragic day received Soldier Medal's for their actions. Those who have displayed this level of heroism should be honored so we may better reflect on their bravery and sacrifice for our safety."

• The Soldier's Medal is awarded to those members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in the Army of the United States, performed an act of heroism that was not in conflict with an armed enemy.
• The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the second highest non-combat decoration for heroism in the United States Department of the Navy and require that the act have had a life-threatening risk.
• The Coast Guard Medal honors those who, while serving with the United States Coast Guard, performed an act of heroism while facing a great personal danger not in conflict with an enemy.
• The Airman's Medal is awarded to those who, while serving with the United States Air Force, distinguished themselves heroically in a non-combat situation.

In 2001, 28 Soldier's Medals were awarded to personnel who risked their lives to assist during the attack on the Pentagon on September 11. Other recipients include: Collin Powell (Soldier's Medal) for rescuing two fellow soldiers from a helicopter crash during his second tour of duty in the Vietnam War; and, President John F. Kennedy (Navy and Marine Corps Medal) for his service as Commanding Officer of Motor Torpedo Boat PT-109 during World War II.

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