Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens of the 24th District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Specialist Matthew Myers, United States Army, of Dallas, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Specialist Myers served honorably in the United States Army from 1979 to 1982 as a combat medic with the 1st Ranger Battalion, U.S. Army Airborne. Throughout his service, he exemplified the highest standards of courage, readiness, and compassion providing emergency care under demanding conditions while supporting the elite soldiers of the Ranger Regiment. His military decorations include the Parachutist Badge, Army Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Expert Rifle Badge, and Medical Field Expert Badge, recognizing his professionalism and technical skill as both a soldier and a medic.

Following his military service, Specialist Myers built a distinguished career in education, leadership, and philanthropy, continuing his lifelong commitment to service. As Dean of the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University from 2017 to 2025,

he championed expanded scholarship opportunities for veterans and active-duty service members, doubling the school's Yellow Ribbon funding to ensure broader access to graduate education through the GI Bill. He also served as a faculty adviser to SMU Military Veterans, providing mentorship and advocacy for students transitioning from military to academic life.

Beyond higher education, Specialist Myers continues to serve his community through board leadership with Goodwill of Dallas, the Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation, King Ranch, and The Peregrine Fund advancing causes of workforce development, healthcare, and conservation. His influence has inspired countless students and colleagues, including his own daughters, who credit his Army service for shaping their values of selflessness, humility, and strength.

Specialist Myers' honorable service and continued dedication to education, veterans, and his community reflect the highest traditions of the United States Army and bring great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens

of the 24th District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Master Sergeant Bruce Nelson Blackmon, United States Air Force, of North Richland Hills, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Master Sergeant Blackmon served honorably in the United States Air Force from 1978 to 1998, dedicating twenty years to the maintenance, repair, and readiness of critical aircraft in support of American combat operations around the world. As a sheet metal craftsman with the 305th Maintenance Squadron under Air Mobility Command, he played a vital role in ensuring that aircraft returning from combat during the Gulf War could be rapidly repaired and returned to mission-ready status directly supporting air operations and the safety of troops on the ground. His superior technical skill, leadership, and dedication earned him numerous awards and decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with four devices, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with two devices, National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award with three devices, and the NCO Professional Military Education Ribbon.

Following his military career, Master Sergeant Blackmon continued his lifelong commitment to service through his work and within his community. For more than twenty-five years, he worked as a kitchen designer and salesman, helping rebuild and restore homes devastated by natural disasters including Hurricane Charley and Hurricane Ike. Known for his humility and willingness to help, he has driven hours to assist friends and family in need repairing plumbing and lighting, installing cabinetry, or simply providing comfort and companionship to those hospitalized or struggling. His community service reflects the same sense of duty and compassion that defined his military career.

Master Sergeant Blackmon's steadfast service, both in uniform and as a civilian, exemplifies the highest traditions of the United States Air Force and brings great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Aviation Structural Mechanic First Class Joseph Ray Williams, United States Navy, of Roanoke, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Petty Officer First Class Williams served honorably in the United States Navy from 1996 to 2016, completing seven deployments and circumnavigating the globe three times in defense of the Nation. As a member of Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 15, he played a vital role in support of the Kosovo Campaign, Operation Enduring Freedom, and the Global War on Terror. His military service was marked by courage, professionalism, and devotion to duty earning him six Good Conduct Medals, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, three Humanitarian Service Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals, and numerous unit and marksmanship awards recognizing his excellence and leadership across two decades of service.

Following his distinguished naval career, Petty Officer Williams continued his lifelong mission of service by founding Texas Veterans Outdoors (TVO) in 2017, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans transition successfully into civilian life. What began as a small grassroots effort in Denton County has grown into a global network of more than 9,000 members, providing mentorship, coaching, and fellowship to veterans and their families. Through outdoor experiences such as hunting, fishing, hiking, and retreats, TVO offers therapeutic and empowering opportunities that help veterans reconnect with themselves, their families, and their communities.

Under Petty Officer Williams' leadership, Texas Veterans Outdoors has become a model of veteran-led outreach and healing, fostering resilience and camaraderie among service members across Texas and beyond. His work has strengthened families, inspired community partnerships, and created a legacy of compassion and leadership that continues to uplift those who have served.

Petty Officer Williams' steadfast dedication to his fellow veterans, his community, and his country reflects the highest traditions of the United States Navy and brings great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Sergeant Eric Lee Newton, United States Army, of Colleyville, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Sergeant Newton served honorably in the United States Army from 1968 to 1971 as a tank commander with K Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, under the command of Colonel George Patton. While deployed to Vietnam from July 1968 to July 1969, he displayed extraordinary courage and devotion to

his fellow soldiers. During a mortar attack on his unit, Sergeant Newton was wounded by shrapnel while shielding his comrades and rescuing the company mascot, sustaining injuries that earned him the Purple Heart. His exemplary service also earned him the Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, and recognition for marksmanship on both the M-14 and M-16 rifles. His unit additionally received the Valorous Unit Award and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm for collective heroism in combat.

Following his military service, Sergeant Newton has remained a lifelong advocate for veterans and a pillar of his community. He has served as Senior Vice Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 1513 in the Mid-Cities and as Junior Vice Commander for the Department of Texas, championing programs that support wounded veterans and their families. For more than thirty years, he has also served as the National Public Affairs Officer for the 11th Armored Cavalry Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia, preserving the legacy of those who served and ensuring their sacrifices are remembered.

Beyond his dedication to veterans, Sergeant Newton has spent decades volunteering across Colleyville as a coach, civic volunteer, and youth mentor. He served on the design committee for Colleyville Heroes Park, volunteered with Kidsville Park, and coached youth baseball and soccer. In 2005, he returned to Iraq to document the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment's combat history, continuing his lifelong commitment to telling the story of American service and sacrifice.

Sergeant Newton's courage in battle, enduring service to veterans, and steadfast commitment to his community reflect the highest traditions of the United States Army and bring great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Captain James Palmersheim, United States Army, of Colleyville, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Captain Palmersheim was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army in 1984 as a Distinguished Military Graduate from Marquette University's ROTC program. He served on active duty as an Army aviator and intelligence officer, flying both fixed and rotary wing aircraft, including the OV-1D Mohawk and RU-21H. During his service with the 224th Military Intelligence Battalion, he demonstrated exceptional skill and leadership earning the Air Assault Badge, Senior Aviator Badge, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and National Defense Service Ribbon.

Following his military career, Captain Palmersheim has continued to exemplify selfless service through a lifetime of work supporting veterans, military families, and youth across the Nation. In 2003, he led a national effort to restore and fly a Huey helicopter across the country culminating in its historic landing on the National Mall, where it now stands as a centerpiece of the Smithsonian's Price of Freedom exhibit. As founder and longtime director of American Airlines' Veterans and Military Initiatives program, he helped develop groundbreaking partnerships that provided resources, recognition, and support for wounded warriors, Gold Star families, and military personnel worldwide.

Captain Palmersheim has also served on the boards of numerous nonprofit organizations, including the Air Power Foundation, the Gary Sinise Foundation, and Snowball Express, which honors children of fallen service

members. He co-founded Independence Corps Foundation, which has donated millions of dollars in mobility equipment to veterans and first responders with disabilities. He currently sits on the board of the Tribute to Valor Foundation, an organization he helped establish to inspire students nationwide through the core values of the Medal of Honor and STEM education. His service has earned him multiple prestigious honors, including the Medal of Honor Society Patriot Award, the Order of Saint Michael from the Army Aviation Association of America, and honorary recognition from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment and the 457th Fighter Squadron.

Captain Palmersheim's unwavering dedication to veterans, their families, and the next generation reflects the highest traditions of the United States Army and brings great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Major General Kevin Pottinger, United States Air Force, of Keller, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Major General Pottinger served with distinction in the United States Air Force for nearly four decades, from 1976 to 2015. A command pilot with more than 3,500 flight hours in the F-16 Fighting Falcon, he held leadership positions at every level, culminating in his role as Commander of the 301st Fighter Wing and later as Mobilization Assistant to the Commander, Pacific Air Forces, at Joint Base Pearl Harbor- Hickam, Hawaii. Following his initial retirement, he selflessly returned to active duty after the September 11th terrorist attacks to fly combat missions in the War on Terror, exemplifying the Air Force core values of integrity, service, and excellence. His military decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, Meritorious Service Medal with silver oak leaf cluster, Air Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, Air Force Achievement Medal, and numerous campaign and service awards recognizing his combat readiness and humanitarian contributions.

Following his military career, Major General Pottinger has continued to serve his state and Nation through leadership, mentorship, and advocacy for veterans. Appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott as Presiding Officer of the Texas Military Preparedness Commission, he works to strengthen Texas' military installations and ensure their continued role in national defense. As President of the Freedom Mobility Foundation, he leads efforts to provide adaptive vehicles and mobility equipment to severely injured veterans empowering them to regain independence and quality of life.

Major General Pottinger's exceptional record of military leadership, combined with his unwavering commitment to veterans and the community, reflects the highest traditions of the United States Air Force and brings great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens

of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Major General James Leonard Williams, United States Marine Corps, of Dallas, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Major General Williams served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps for more than 38 years, including both active and reserve duty during multiple conflicts. Over the course of his career, he held numerous leadership and command positions within the 4th Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Combined Joint Task Force 180, and 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company, Special Operations Capable. His operational service included deployments supporting the War on Drugs and combat tours in both Afghanistan and Iraq. His military decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Legion of Merit Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Secretary of Defense Service Badge, among numerous other honors.

Beyond his exemplary military career, Major General Williams has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to public service, education, and community leadership. He has served on numerous boards and advisory groups, including the FBI Citizens Academy Alumni Association, InfraGard North Texas Alliance, North Texas Crime Commission, and the Veterans Advisory Board for the VA North Texas Health Care System. He is President of the Board for International Leadership of Texas, a public charter school district, and serves as an advisor to both the Tarleton State University School of Criminal Justice and the Tower Center for Political Science at Southern Methodist University.

Major General Williams also dedicates extensive time to helping veterans navigate the VA system, offering mentorship, guidance, and financial coaching to help fellow servicemembers and their families succeed in civilian life. His leadership, compassion, and devotion to service continue to strengthen North Texas communities and inspire future generations.

Major General Williams' extraordinary record of military and civic service reflects the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and brings great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Staff Sergeant Kenneth A. Harrison, United States Air Force, of Keller, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Staff Sergeant Harrison served honorably in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970 during the Vietnam War, where he was assigned to the 12th Reconnaissance Intelligence Technical Squadron. In that role, he provided critical intelligence and reconnaissance support, contributing to the success of U.S. operations in Southeast Asia. His professionalism, dedication, and skill earned him the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and Air Force Medal 900 in recognition of his exemplary performance and commitment to duty.

Following his military service, Staff Sergeant Harrison devoted himself to improving education, civic engagement, and community development in Keller and Tarrant County, serving for twelve years on the Keller Independent School District Board of Trustees. Additionally, he is a founding member of the Keller ISD Education Foundation, which continues to provide grants and stipends to outstanding teachers and programs that enhance student learning opportunities.

In addition to his education leadership, he has held numerous community and civic roles, including Treasurer of the Keller Chamber of Commerce Board, Chair of the Boy Scouts' Friends of Scouting fundraising campaign, Foundation Chair and past President of the Golden Triangle Rotary Club, and member of the Fort Worth Symphony Board. Through these positions, Staff Sergeant Harrison has played an instrumental role in raising funds and building partnerships that strengthen schools, support youth development, and enrich the cultural life of North Texas.

Staff Sergeant Harrison's exemplary service to his Nation and his lifelong dedication to the Keller community reflect the highest traditions of the United States Air Force and bring great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas.

The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Captain Todd Boeding, United States Marine Corps, of Dallas, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Captain Boeding served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps from 1989 to 2001. Beginning his service as an enlisted Marine administrative clerk and later commissioning as an infantry officer, he embodied the Marine Corps' core values of honor and commitment throughout his career. He served with the 1st Marine Regiment and was later selected for the elite Marine Barracks in Washington, D.C., where he was a member of the famed Silent Drill Team representing the Marine Corps in ceremonies honoring presidents, foreign dignitaries, and fallen service members. His military decorations include the Navy Unit Commendation Medal, two Meritorious Unit Commendations, the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Certificate of Commendation, and multiple letters and certificates of appreciation, along with Expert Rifle and Sharpshooter Pistol Badges.

After the September 11, 2001, attacks, Captain Boeding extended his service to continue supporting the Corps and his country. Since leaving active duty, he has remained deeply committed to service and leadership within his community. As a Board Member and Ambassador for Carry The Load, he has played a vital role in honoring and supporting veterans, first responders, and military families helping expand the organization's national impact and its mission of restoring the true meaning of Memorial Day. His mentorship and friendship have guided countless veterans in their transition to civilian life, continuing his lifelong legacy of servant leadership.

Captain Boeding also co-founded Tribe and Trust Leadership Academy, a program dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders by instilling the principles of teamwork, integrity, and service that defined his Marine Corps career. His tireless dedication to veterans, young leaders, and the broader North Texas community exemplifies the very best of American service and citizenship.

Captain Boeding's honorable military service and his enduring commitment to country and community reflect the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and bring great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Lieutenant Colonel Gabriel Griess, United States Air Force, of Grapevine, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Lieutenant Colonel Griess served with distinction in the United States Air Force from 1991 to 2015, holding command and leadership positions across the globe, including during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Over his 24-year career, he demonstrated exceptional skill, courage, and integrity in both combat and peacetime operations. His leadership ensured mission success and the safety of his personnel, and his mentorship inspired countless Airmen to excel in service. For his outstanding contributions, he received numerous decorations, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, and Air Force Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, among many others.

Following his military career, Lieutenant Colonel Griess has continued to exemplify service before self through his civic and volunteer leadership. He serves as Secretary of the Tarrant County College Foundation and as a member of the Fort Worth Air Power Council. He is active in numerous Grapevine community organizations, including the Grapevine Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, and the City of Grapevine Building Board of Appeals. He has also served as a commissioner on the city's Planning and Zoning Commission, a PTA board member, youth coach, and advocate for civic engagement across Tarrant County.

Lieutenant Colonel Griess' exemplary record of military and civic service reflects the highest traditions of the United States Air Force and brings great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Sergeant Felix Jimenez Garcia, United States Army, of Fort Worth, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Sergeant Garcia served in the United States Army and the Texas Army National Guard for thirteen years, including a twelve-month combat deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a squad leader with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 144th Infantry Regiment, he led and completed more than one hundred combat missions in Iraq demonstrating courage, composure, and devotion to his fellow soldiers. For his valor and leadership in combat, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with ``V'' Device, along with the Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Expert Infantry Badge, and Combat Infantry Badge.

Following his military service, Sergeant Garcia has continued to exemplify service before self through his work in the North Texas community. He volunteers with Catholic Charities of Fort Worth, serves on the Board of Directors for the Greater Keller Chamber of Commerce, and dedicates his time to helping fellow veterans navigate the Department of Veterans Affairs benefits process. Recently certified as an Onward Ops Sponsor, he mentors transitioning service members as they adjust to civilian life offering guidance, encouragement, and support. A husband, father of four, and small business owner, Sergeant Garcia continues to live a life of purpose, leadership, and compassion, strengthening both the veteran community and his local neighborhood.

Sergeant Garcia's courage in combat and his lifelong commitment to serving others reflect the highest traditions of the United States Army and bring great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of Jail Supervisor Alisha Johnson of the Euless Police Department, who is retiring after twenty-five years of dedicated service.

Alisha joined the City of Euless in November 1999 as a Public Service Officer, after previously serving as a Correctional Officer with Correctional Service Corporation in Fort Worth. Through her commitment to public service, she was promoted to Jail Supervisor in October 2023. She is an expert in the Live Scan fingerprinting system and has completed new supervisor school and other job-related training courses.

Alisha graduated from Kofa High School in Yuma, Arizona, pursued accounting and business at Arizona Western University, and earned an Associate Degree in General Studies from Tarrant County College. She is a member of the Euless Peace Officers Association and has received numerous awards, including the Blackie Sustaire Award, Employee of the Month in 2006, Civilian of the Year in 2013, the Distinguished Service Civilian Award in 2020, and a Unit Citation in 2022.

She enjoys traveling, reading, outdoor activities, and spending time with her family.

I would like to thank Jail Supervisor Johnson for her exemplary service to the Euless community and congratulate her on her well- deserved retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to First Sergeant Robert Hazlewood, United States Marine Corps, of North Richland Hills, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

First Sergeant Hazlewood served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps for thirty years, including during the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. Throughout his career, he held numerous leadership roles across the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, and 14th Marine Regiment earning the respect of those he led through his steadfast commitment to the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment. His military decorations include the National Defense Service Medal with bronze star, three Good Conduct Medals, three Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medals, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and the Overseas Service Ribbon.

Following his retirement, First Sergeant Hazlewood has continued to serve his community with the same dedication that marked his military career. A lifelong mentor and educator, he operates a martial arts school where he teaches self-defense and discipline to young men and women, providing specialized training for college-bound students to enhance their personal safety. He also serves his church, Compass Church in Colleyville, by leading and training its volunteer security team, and has been twice recognized by the City of Colleyville for more than twenty years of service to local youth.

First Sergeant Hazlewood's contributions have also been recognized nationally and internationally. He has been honored by the Governor of Tennessee for his work with the Junior Achievement Program, received Rotary International's Paul Harris Fellow recognition for promoting global understanding, and earned the Jandal Service Award for his support of high school speech and debate students. He continues to mentor youth through Rotary Interact, the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, and by coaching students toward successful appointments to the United States Air Force and Naval Academies.

First Sergeant Hazlewood's distinguished record of service to his Nation and his tireless commitment to the next generation reflect the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and bring great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Captain Mark Smits, United States Army, of Coppell, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Captain Smits was commissioned into the United States Army in 1979 and served as an engineer officer until 1983. During his military career, he demonstrated strong leadership and technical skill earning the Parachutist Badge, Humanitarian Service Medal, and Army Service Ribbon. His dedication to excellence and teamwork exemplified the values of duty, integrity, and service to others that define the United States Army.

Following his military service, Captain Smits has continued a lifelong commitment to empowering others and supporting those who serve. As a Board Member and Mentor for Claymore Operations, he helps active-duty service members prepare for the transition to civilian life by providing personalized mentorship, career guidance, and leadership development. He also serves as Commander of the Military Order of the World Wars Dallas Chapter, where he promotes patriotism, civic responsibility, and leadership among veterans and students alike.

As Chairman of the Dallas MOWW's Youth Leadership initiatives, Captain Smits leads programs that bring together JROTC cadets and high school students from across Texas to build leadership skills and foster a deeper appreciation for service and citizenship. His tireless work ensures that both current and future generations understand the value of duty, honor, and commitment to country.

Captain Smits' service to his Nation and community is in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to Sergeant Larry Kellogg, United States Army, of Coppell, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to his community.

Sergeant Kellogg was drafted into the United States Army in 1966 and served with Company C, 65th Engineer Battalion, 25th Infantry Division, as a combat medic during the Vietnam War. In February 1967, at age twenty-four, he deployed to Vietnam, where his courage and devotion to duty saved lives on the battlefield. In July of that year, while on patrol, his armored personnel carrier was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade. Despite his own severe injuries, Sergeant Kellogg immediately began tending to three wounded squad members, continuing to render aid until he lost consciousness from blood loss. His selfless actions saved the lives of those men and earned him the Bronze Star Medal for Valor and the Purple Heart for wounds received in action. His additional decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Marksman Badge (Rifle M14), Meritorious Unit Commendation, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm, and the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal Unit Citation.

Following his military service, Sergeant Kellogg has remained steadfast in his commitment to veterans and his community. He served as a Director and honor guard member with Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 920 in Denton for more than fifteen years, volunteered with the Coppell Police Department's Citizen Patrol, and continues to serve as a Eucharistic Minister at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church, bringing the Eucharist to the homebound. He is also an active member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, representing his chapter at civic events and community ceremonies honoring America's veterans.

Sergeant Kellogg's lifelong devotion to service both in uniform and in the community reflects the highest traditions of the United States Army and brings great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the United States of America.