[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 59 (Monday, May 15, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E831]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING CADET LIEUTENANT BRANDON J. ARCHULETA

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                        HON. GRACE F. NAPOLITANO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 15, 2006

  Mrs. NAPOLITANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Brandon Jason 
Archuleta, a distinguished Class President of the United States 
Military Academy at West Point over four consecutive years, a 
forthcoming graduate, and my constituent from the great city of 
Montebello, California.
  On Saturday, May 27, 2006, Cadet Lieutenant Brandon Jason Archuleta 
will complete his term at West Point Academy with a Bachelor of 
Sciences degree in American History and a commission as a Field 
Artillery Officer in the United States Army. As a freshman, or 
``Plebe,'' at West Point, he was elected by 1200 of his peers as 
President for the Class of 2006. During his second year he was re-
elected to a life-term representing his peers, while he continued to 
expand his academic accomplishments and his extracurricular 
involvement. He has received the National Defense Service Medal and the 
Air Assault badge, while his leadership has been profiled by both MSNBC 
and the New York Times.
  Brandon's studies included research into comparative politics, 
political participation, legislative procedures, defense policy, 
international security, and the media. In his fourth year, Brandon 
focused his senior thesis on American Politics. His work highlighted 
Hispanic Members of Congress and analyzed how concerns over ethnicity 
impacted their voting behavior and representation. While preparing this 
thesis, Brandon visited the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), 
interviewed several members, and was invited to attend a Caucus meeting 
in Washington where he met Senator Kerry. His study makes a unique 
contribution to the West Point academic community, as one of the first 
known research efforts on Hispanic Members of the 109th Congress.
  Brandon Archuleta was born on November 24, 1983, to Bob and Vera 
Archuleta. A lifelong Montebello resident, he attended La Merced 
Elementary and Intermediate schools, becoming heavily involved in the 
Student Councils at both schools. He became an Eagle Scout, played 
baseball for several years, and developed artistic skill in both band 
and drama. Brandon attended St. John Bosco Catholic High School in 
Bellflower, and remained involved in: the varsity football team, 3 
terms as class president, swim team, campus ministry, and the school 
newspaper. Brandon graduated with honors from St. John Bosco in 2001, 
and was chosen to deliver their commencement speech on behalf of his 
graduating class.
  Shortly after graduating, he traveled to New Jersey where he attended 
the United States Military Academy Preparatory School, followed by his 
appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point in 
2002. As a Field Artillery Officer, Archuleta's first assignment will 
be with the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia. After five 
years of preparation and training, Brandon is ready for another five 
year commitment as a commissioned officer in the United States Army.
  Mr. Speaker, today I would like to personally acknowledge and commend 
Brandon Archuleta for his dedication to leadership and continuing 
service to our country. I ask my colleagues to join me in 
congratulating Brandon on his many achievements, especially upon his 
West Point graduation, and honoring his exemplary service as a role 
model for America's youth. I wish him all the best for his future.

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