Tony Gonzales

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Jim Shelton, a true American hero whose courage, service, and devotion to duty continue to inspire generations.

Jim Shelton was born on November 21, 1926, in San Antonio, Texas. At just 15 years old, he left school to work at Kelly Field in the Reclaiming Department, contributing to the war effort at an early age. Determined to serve his country, he returned to school and graduated early, enabling him to enlist in the United States Navy at the age of 17 at Fort Sam Houston.

Mr. Shelton graduated in January 1944 and was assigned to the 96th Company. Drawing on his experience working with mechanical parts, he was stationed aboard the USS Endymion, a Navy repair ship. His role was critical--keeping damaged vessels operational in the midst of war.

Mr. Speaker, Jim Shelton's naval career was defined by service to his fellow sailors and unwavering resolve. As a Coxswain and later a Boatswain's Mate, he and his shipmates repaired countless vessels and supported the fleet during the invasion of Okinawa. The Endymion itself came under enemy attack and was torpedoed off the island of Truk. Despite the danger and damage sustained, Mr. Shelton remained with the ship until the end of World War II.

Later in life, Mr. Shelton was honored with an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he and his fellow crew members were formally recognized for their service. He received a letter from President Clinton honoring the crew of the Endymion for their dedication-- repairing other ships even after their own vessel had been attacked and damaged.

Mr. Speaker, Jim Shelton's life is a testament to the strength, humility, and resilience of the Greatest Generation. His service to our Nation and his steadfast sense of duty stands as an enduring example of what it means to be an American.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Captain Isaac Camacho, a true American hero whose courage continues to inspire generations. Born on June 3, 1937, in Fabens, Texas, he moved to El Paso at the age of 13 after the passing of his father. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1955 and immediately enlisted in the United States Army, joining the Airborne Infantry of the 11th Airborne Division. His dedication and skill led him to the elite ranks of the U.S. Army Special Forces, serving with the 1st Special Forces Group.

Mr. Speaker, Captain Camacho's service is marked by one of the most extraordinary stories of the Vietnam War. On November 22, 1963, during his second tour, he and three fellow soldiers were captured by Viet Cong forces at Camp Hiep Hoa. He endured more than 20 months in captivity under brutal conditions. Yet, his determination to return home never faltered. On July 9, 1965, during a heavy monsoon, he escaped by slipping through the bars of his cage and evading his captors for four days until encountering U.S. forces. He became the first American service member to escape from a Viet Cong POW camp.

His return home brought nationwide celebration. President Lyndon B. Johnson, Congressman Richard White, and El Paso Mayor Judson Williams personally honored him. But the most heartfelt recognition came from his mother, who had prayed for her son's return throughout his long captivity.

Captain Camacho's military awards reflect his extraordinary valor: the Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, two Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star, the Prisoner of War Medal, and numerous commendations. He also earned the Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, and multiple foreign parachutist honors. In 2009, he was inducted as a Distinguished Member of the Special Forces Regiment.

After retiring from the Army, he continued serving his country through a successful career with the U.S. Postal Service.

Mr. Speaker, Captain Isaac Camacho's heroism, strength, and devotion to duty stand as an enduring example of American resilience.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ramon ``Ray'' A. Borrego, a proud American whose life of service reflects the highest traditions of our Armed Forces and our veteran community. At the age of 21, Ray Borrego was drafted into the United States Army in April of 1967. He completed basic training at Fort Bliss, followed by Advanced Individual Training at the renowned ``Tiger Land'' at Fort Polk, Louisiana, before deploying from Fort Lewis to Vietnam in September 1967.

During his year in Vietnam, he served with A Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry, of the Airmobile Infantry Division, one of the most heavily engaged units of the war. After returning to the United States in 1968, he completed his service at Fort Dix and Fort Carson, receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1969.

Mr. Speaker, Ray's service did not end with his military career. His hometown of San Elizario has a long and proud military history, but for many years its veterans had only a small museum room honoring their contributions. In 2007, Ray helped change that. As a founding member and the very first Chairperson of the San Elizario Veterans Committee, he helped lead a remarkable transformation of how his community honors those who served.

Under his leadership, the Committee established a permanent Veterans Museum, created the Veterans Memorial Brick Walk, and expanded the annual Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony. The Committee also launched the Honor Salute for fallen San Eli veterans, supported cemetery upkeep, conducted fundraising, and championed the effort to designate San Elizario as a Purple Heart City. His leadership extended beyond San Elizario as a co-founder of the Lower Valley Veterans Alliance and a participant in Mission 15 of the Rio Grande Honor Flight.

Although Ray stepped down as Chairperson in 2024, he continues to serve as Co-Chair, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to honoring veterans across the Lower Valley.

Mr. Speaker, Ramon Borrego represents the best of our country--a soldier, a leader, and a dedicated servant to his community. Today we recognize and thank him for a lifetime of service.