When I woke up in Walter Reed, I didn't know what the future would hold. I had to confront the reality that I'd never be an asset on the battlefield again.

But then my dad gave me an important piece of advice:

“Brian, I love you. I’m glad you’re OK. I’m glad you’re alive,” he told me. Then, with his eyes still welled up, he said very seriously, “You can’t let this keep you down. You’ve got to find a way to get out there.”

But following through was easier said than done. The men and women that I woke up next to - many of whom were far more injured than me - were critical to helping me get through during those tough times.

With their support, slowly, I was able to get out of bed. I learned to walk. I learned to run. Over time, I was able to play around with my kids again. And, I set my mind toward fulfilling my dad's advice by continuing my service to our country in the United States Congress.

I couldn't have done it without the support of the men and women at Walter Reed, both the medical professionals and my fellow Purple Heart recipients.

This week I am honored to be able to recognize these brave men and women who helped me so much by introducing a resolution in support of making August 7th Purple Heart Day.

These men and women have given so much of themselves, both figuratively and literally, to defend our freedom. This resolution is the least we can do.

Read the bill: