[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 170 (Monday, October 23, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1402-E1403]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         TRIBUTE TO COLONEL RAUL VILLARONGA, U.S. ARMY, RETIRED

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. JOHN R. CARTER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 23, 2017

  Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 
service and achievements of an esteemed and valued citizen of Killeen, 
Texas. Colonel Raul Villaronga, U.S. Army Retired, has dedicated 
himself to serving his community and is an embodiment of the Army 
values of honor, loyalty, and selfless service. He is a deserving 
recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation.
  His commission as an Infantry 2nd Lieutenant in 1959 began his 24 
years of service in which he completed assignments in Fort Bragg, the 
Panama Canal Zone, Vietnam, Germany, and Fort Hood. While assigned to 
the 8th Special Forces Group, he participated in numerous classified 
Mobile Training Teams in Central and South America. COL Villaronga 
deservingly received awards including the Silver Star, the Bronze Star 
Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Meritorious Service Medal as a 
testament to his exemplary service.
  COL Villaronga is a respected citizen serving in a number of roles 
showcasing his commitment to community and nation. Returning from the 
Air Force, COL Villaronga served three terms as Mayor of Killeen. As 
Mayor, he founded the Killeen Youth Advisory Commission and worked on 
the Joint Use Agreement for the Robert Gray Army Airfield. As Chairman 
of the Killeen League of United Latin American Citizens Council 4535 
Foundation,

[[Page E1403]]

COL Villaronga has been responsible for the donation of over $175,000 
in scholarships for local graduating seniors. He continues to serve 
veterans in his community alongside his wife. His tireless efforts have 
made Central Texas a place that we're proud to call home.
  COL Villaronga's patriotism and commitment to service reflect the 
very best values of Central Texas. He is a hero who has devoted his 
life to defending our freedoms abroad and serving his community at 
home. I join his wife, Julia, along with his family and friends in 
wishing him the best in the years ahead.

                          ____________________