Birdwell nominated for assistant secretary of Defense position
Retiring state senator, Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury, whose Senate District 22 includes the western portion of Ellis County, has been nominated to serve on the federal level as an assistant secretary of Defense by President Donald Trump.
Birdwell’s name was included on a list of nominations and appointments released Oct. 21 by the White House. Those will next go before the U.S. Senate for confirmation.
In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick extended his congratulations to Birdwell and shared, “We will greatly miss him in the Texas Senate. He is truly one of the greatest senators ever to serve Texas. He is respected by all members for his work ethic, boldness, and kindness.”
Patrick noted Birdwell’s “lifetime of service” and described the appointment as “no surprise to those who know him.”
Prior to his 15-year tenure in the Texas Senate, Birdwell had served in the U.S. Army, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel. He was a recipient of a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and the Legion of Merit. He was seriously injured while at the Pentagon during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He and his wife would later author the book, “Refined by Fire: A Family’s Triumph of Love and Faith,” which detailed his recovery and their spiritual journey.
“America is in great hands with my friend in this key position,” Patrick wrote. “A soldier at heart, I know he will give his all and serve our country honorably in his next mission as Assistant Secretary of Defense.”
Joining Patrick in the accolades was Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, who wrote on X: “Senator Birdwell’s life is the very definition of courage, faith, and service. His steadfast devotion to God, country, and the people of Texas has inspired countless Americans. We are incredibly proud of him and grateful that his unmatched integrity and experience will continue to serve our nation at the highest level. Congratulations, Senator Birdwell — America is blessed to have you.”
In The Know Ellis has reached out to Birdwell’s senatorial office for additional comment.
