[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 118 (Friday, August 3, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1444-E1445]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE TO FIRST SERGEANT HECTOR SOTORODRIGUEZ FROM THE UNITED STATES 
                   MARINE CORPS HOUSE LIAISON OFFICE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE COFFMAN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 3, 2012

  Mr. COFFMAN of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize and pay 
tribute to First Sergeant Hector Sotorodriguez United States Marine 
Corps, on the occasion of his transfer from the United States Marine 
Corps House Liaison office back into the Fleet Marine Force. First 
Sergeant Sotorodriguez has served our great Nation for many years, 
earning many decorations and awards. I, and many other members of this 
chamber, have had the pleasure of working with him over the past two 
and a half years that he has served as part of Headquarters U.S. Marine 
Corps Office of Legislative Affairs, OLA, Fellow and as the Senior 
Staff Non-Commissioned Officer In Charge of the House OLA liaison 
office.
  First Sergeant Sotorodriguez distinguished himself through 
exceptional meritorious service while serving as the Senior Staff Non-
Commissioned Officer In-Charge of the Marine Corps House Liaison 
office. Every day he served in direct support of not only the Marine 
Corps Office of Legislative Affairs but in direct support of every 
member of Congress, every Marine and every American. His keen abilities 
in organization, interpersonal relationships, and communication were 
extremely critical to the successful accomplishment of the Marine Corps 
mission. His achievements and ability to get the job done have been 
understated but always effective and noteworthy. While serving in the 
Liaison office, First Sergeant Sotorodriguez was able to develop and 
execute legislative strategy for the United States Marine Corps. This 
strategy was instrumental in creating a shared understanding between 
congress and the Marine Corps, allowing leadership the ability to train 
and equip the Nation's most elite fighting force, ensuring their

[[Page E1445]]

success on the battlefield. He routinely turned broad guidance into 
action which energized the Office of Legislative Affairs and members of 
Congress alike. His actions allowed the Marine Corps to engage members 
of Congress and their staffs, directly facilitating the increased 
emphasis on improving Congressional relationships--a cornerstone of the 
CMC's strategic vision.
  Throughout his service he consistently demonstrated his expertise and 
knowledge by providing timely and accurate information to the 
Congressional Members and their respective staffs. First Sergeant 
Sotorodriguez was a vital asset for all matters relating to the Marine 
Corps in the House of Representatives. Members and staffers alike 
respected and trusted First Sergeant Sotorodriguez's straightforward 
and dependable assistance. His forthrightness and knowledge were key 
attributes in maintaining the Marine Corps' superb relationships with 
the many Members of the House of Representatives.
  Throughout his tour, First Sergeant Sotorodriguez personally 
responded to, or supervised hundreds of congressional inquiries, some 
of which gained national level attention. Through his exceptional 
inter-personal skills, broad knowledge in a wide range of military 
affairs, and personal efforts he assisted the Director, Marine Corps 
Liaison Office, in gaining the Members' support and trust on critical 
issues. First Sergeant Sotorodriguez's has contributed immeasurably as 
a member in the Marine Liaison Office here on Capitol Hill and to the 
Marine Corps as a whole. I wish him well in all of his future 
endeavors.

                          ____________________