[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 178 (Monday, December 16, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1884-E1885]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 ANNOUNCING RECIPIENTS OF THE 2013 CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION 
                    FOR THE THIRD DISTRICT OF TEXAS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. SAM JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, December 16, 2013

  Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to honor 
fourteen distinguished military veterans, community servants, and 
American patriots who call the Third District of Texas home. All 
faithfully answered the call of duty and placed service above self for 
the sake of our great nation. Each one leaves a legacy to be 
remembered, for future generations to follow, a legacy of bravery, 
loyalty, dedication, and sacrifice. For their selfless service, bold 
leadership, and undying commitment for their neighbor and nation, the 
following individual has been selected as a recipient of the third 
annual Congressional Veteran Commendation:
  Justin Arsenault served in the United States Army from 2003 to 2006. 
After enlisting, he served one tour of duty in Iraq from 2005 to 2006. 
During his tour, Mr. Arsenault was his unit's primary pilot for the 
Raven Unmanned Aerial Vehicle where he was to utilize the Raven to 
clear supply routes. During one particular mission, he used the Raven 
to maintain an aerial perimeter for troops whose vehicle had been 
disabled by a roadside explosive device. He continued to monitor the 
area for enemy combatants until ground support could reach the disabled 
troops and escort them to safety. For his acts of bravery and courage 
during this mission, Mr. Arsenault received a second Army Commendation 
Medal.
  Since returning home, Mr. Arsenault has continued to faithfully 
uphold his calling to defend, protect, and serve his fellow Americans 
across the community. In 2007, he began his service as a police officer 
in Allen, Texas where he currently serves as a Field Training Officer. 
If all of that is not enough, off duty he volunteers his time for the 
Carry the Load campaign, which is held over Memorial Day weekend every 
year. To him, Memorial Day ought to be more than cookouts and retail

[[Page E1885]]

sales events, but a day to remember and honor the ultimate sacrifice 
given by members of our Armed Forces. This is a man who truly embodies 
the spirit of America.
  Justin Arsenault, let me both thank and congratulate you on your 
exceptional service to our country and community both past and present. 
It is my pleasure to award you the 2013 Congressional Veteran 
Commendation for the Third District of Texas.

                          ____________________