Brian Douglas Birdwell[1] (born November 3, 1961)[2] is an American politician who has served in the Texas Senate for District 22 since 2010. He is a survivor of the September 11, 2001 attacks against The Pentagon.
Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Birdwell earned a Bachelor of Science degree in criminology from Lamar University in 1984 and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Missouri–Kansas City in 1996.[3]
On September 11, 2001, Birdwell was working with the United States Army at The Pentagon. He was just leaving a restroom when American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the building. Birdwell was badly burned by the ensuing fire.[4] Two days after being injured, Birdwell met President George W. Bush.[5][6] Rob Maness, a United States Air Force officer who rescued Birdwell, learned about Birdwell's identity only when they met at the 2016 Republican National Convention.[7]
He holds a Purple Heart and a Legion of Merit.[8]
He defeated David Sibley in a June 22, 2010 special election, replacing Kip Averitt.[9]
Birdwell won the 2010 general election unopposed.[10]
In February 2017, Birdwell sponsored Senate Joint Resolution 2, which calls for a convention to propose amendments to the United States Constitution. The resolution "seeks amendments that place restraints on the federal budget and check power and enact term limits for U.S. officials."[11] Senate Joint Resolution 2 was passed by both chambers of the Texas Legislature. In May 2017, Birdwell sponsored a bill outlining the duties and limits of Texas delegates should a convention of states occur. It was approved by the Texas House and sent to Texas Governor Greg Abbott.[12]
He has one son, Matthew,[13] with his wife, Mel.[8]
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