[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 179 (Monday, November 13, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2169]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO ANDRES C. GONZALEZ

                                 ______


                         HON. SOLOMON P. ORTIZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 13, 1995

  Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to commend and pay tribute to a 
lifelong resident of Kingsville, TX, Andres C. Gonzalez--a man who has 
given of himself to his community, his State, and his country over the 
course of his life.
  Andres Gonzalez is a patriot who answered his country's call to duty 
at an early age. He served with distinction, receiving the Bronze Star 
at the age of 18, while in the European theater in Italy during WWII. 
After outstanding and honorable service in WWII, Andy returned to his 
native Kingsville to serve his community in a host of ways and to serve 
his State in the Texas Army National Guard.
  Andy served in the National Guard for 31 years and was the highest 
ranking Hispanic when he was honorably discharged. He had attained the 
rank of Command Sergeant Major in the Guard, and received many 
commendations of recognition for his outstanding service.
  Andy won a host of awards including: the Texas Faithful Reserve 
Medal, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Award, the Past 
Commander American Legion Post 99, and several commendations for 
marksmanship.
  In his life outside the service of his country, he owned Andy's 
Upholstery Shop, ranched, and farmed. Andy gave back to his community 
by serving as the vice-chairman of the Kingsville Housing Authority, a 
member of the local P.T.A., the Kingsville Economic Development 
Council, the Texas A&M-Kingsville Alumni Association, and the United 
Steelworkers of America.
  In Kingsville, he already has a street named after him, ``Andres 
Gonzalez Circle.'' I ask that my colleagues join me today in commending 
the life's work of this patriotic Texan whose dedication to home and 
country has made both a better place to live.

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