A seventh generation Texan, Van Taylor is a family man, businessman, and decorated Iraq War Veteran. Growing up, Van earned the Eagle Scout rank from the future President George Bush.
After high school, Van attended Harvard College from which he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in history. After graduating college, Van volunteered to serve his country and received a commission in the United States Marine Corps.
He attended The Basic School, Infantry Officer Course, and graduated first in his class from Sniper Employment Officer Course. He completed Intelligence School as the Marine Honor Graduate and commanded First Marine Regiment’s Reconnaissance Platoon in Camp Pendleton, CA. After completing that assignment, he served as an intelligence officer for an artillery battalion. Van earned the Navy Achievement Medal for devising a quantitative combat power analysis system.
The United States Marines taught me the importance of servant leadership. As a Veteran, I know firsthand the sacrifices our military and their families make for our state and nation. I will always fight to ensure Texas and our nation honors our veterans and military personnel. Since coming to Congress, I’ve worked to help the VA acquire the former Garland Baylor, Scott & White hospital. I’m pleased to announce an agreement has been reached. The facility will eventually expand to care for the 184,000 veterans in North Texas.