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Senate adopts concurrent resolution honoring Marine sniper Charles “Chuck” Mawhinney
Summary
The Oregon Senate unanimously adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 28 to honor the life and service of Charles Benjamin 'Chuck' Mawhinney, a decorated Marine and Oregonian noted for his service in Vietnam; family attended the floor reading and the resolution will be presented to them.
The Oregon Senate unanimously adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 28 on the floor to honor the life and service of Charles Benjamin “Chuck” Mawhinney, a former Marine sniper from Oregon whose service in the Vietnam War and later recognition were recounted by senators.
Senator McLean introduced the resolution and detailed Mawhinney’s biography: he was born in Lakeview, Oregon; joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1967; graduated at the top of his sniper class in 1968; and served 16 months in Vietnam. McLean and other floor speakers listed Mawhinney’s decorations, including the Bronze Star with a V device for valor and two Purple Hearts. McLean noted that Mawhinney’s M4 sniper rifle is on display at the National Museum of the Marine Corps and that a 2023 biography chronicled his service.
Family members and supporters attended the reading on the Senate floor; McLean said a copy of the resolution would be presented to Mawhinney’s family as an expression of the Senate’s appreciation. Senator Nash, in discussion, praised Mawhinney’s service and called attention to the difficulties many Vietnam veterans faced returning to civilian life.
The clerk recorded the final adoption: "Senate Concurrent Resolution 28 A having received a constitutional majority is declared adopted," and the Senate stood at ease to allow Mawhinney’s family to leave the floor. Senators said this resolution represents the highest honor the Oregon State Senate can bestow and thanked the family for his service.
No legislative action beyond adoption of the memorial resolution was taken in connection with the reading; the resolution is ceremonial and will be presented to Mawhinney’s family.
