Washington (CNN) A Democratic congressman said Thursday that embattled FBI agent Peter Strzok deserves a Purple Heart medal for his testimony in front of a congressional hearing.

"If I could give you a Purple Heart, I would. You deserve one," Rep. Steve Cohen, a Tennessee Democrat, told Strzok at the hearing where the FBI agent faced criticism and scrutiny from Republicans over anti-Trump text messages he exchanged with now ex-FBI lawyer Lisa Page.

The Purple Heart is given to US service members who are wounded or killed in combat. The US Department of Veterans Affairs has described it as "one of the most recognized and respected medals awarded to members of the US armed forces," and "the nation's oldest military award."

Cohen went on to say that Thursday's hearing "has been an attack on you and a way to attack" special counsel Robert Mueller and the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Read More