[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 123 (Wednesday, September 18, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H5628]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING SPECIALIST FOURTH CLASS JOHN PHILIP BACA

  (Mr. COTTON asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. COTTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the heroic efforts of 
Specialist Fourth Class John Philip Baca of the United States Army.
  Specialist Baca was a member of the 1st Cavalry Division, the ``First 
Team.'' His Medal of Honor was awarded for extraordinary bravery in 
action on February 10, 1970, in Vietnam. On that February day, a 
platoon from Specialist Baca's company came under enemy fire. Upon 
realizing his team could be of assistance, Specialist Baca jumped into 
action. He led his unit through enemy fire to a position within the 
patrol's defensive perimeter. But before they were able to attack, an 
enemy grenade was thrown directly into their unit. Specialist Baca 
covered the grenade with his helmet and fell on it, absorbing its 
blast. His quick action bravely saved eight of his fellow soldiers from 
death or serious injury.
  It is for this brave act and his unwavering courage that I am proud 
to honor the actions of Specialist Fourth Class John Philip Baca.

                          ____________________