WHEREAS, Lieutenant Colonel Bruce P. Crandall served in the United States Army with distinction, demonstrating courage and heroism on the battlefield in Vietnam; and
     WHEREAS, On November 14, 1965, the first day of the Battle of LZ X-Ray, then-Major Crandall flew fourteen missions into Landing Zone X-Ray in Vietnam's Ia Drang Valley under intense enemy fire, evacuating more than seventy wounded soldiers while leading a flight of two helicopters; and
     WHEREAS, Major Crandall's bravery in the Battle of LZ X-Ray and his determination to put the lives and safety of wounded soldiers ahead of his own enhanced the morale and fighting spirit of fellow pilots and soldiers; and
     WHEREAS, In January 1966, during "Operation Masher," Major Crandall rescued twelve wounded soldiers under intense enemy fire and with only a spot flashlight for guidance; and
     WHEREAS, Major Crandall received the Aviation and Space Writers Helicopter Heroism Award for his courage in "Operation Masher"; and
     WHEREAS, Major Crandall later served with distinction in his second tour in Vietnam, during which time his helicopter was downed while attempting another rescue, landing him in the hospital for five months due to severe injuries; and
     WHEREAS, Lieutenant Colonel Crandall retired from the Army in 1977, was inducted into the Army Aviation Hall of Fame in 2004, and also inducted into the Air Force's Gathering of Eagles in 1996; and
     WHEREAS, Lieutenant Colonel Crandall was awarded the Medal of Honor in Washington, D.C. on February 26, 2007;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate officially recognize Lieutenant Colonel Bruce P. Crandall for his heroic service in the defense of the United States of America and for his steadfast commitment to the lives and fighting spirit of his fellow pilots and soldiers.