[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 18 (Tuesday, January 28, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E90]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING CITY OF COACHELLA FIRE DEPARTMENT CAPTAIN MARCOS MACHUCA

                                  _____
                                 

                             HON. RAUL RUIZ

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 28, 2020

  Mr. RUIZ. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor my constituent, City of 
Coachella Fire Department Captain Marcos Machuca, for his years of 
service to California's 36th Congressional District. After 42 years of 
exceptional service to our communities, Captain Machuca retired on 
November 30, 2019.
  Captain Machuca fulfilled his childhood dream to serve his community 
when he joined the City of Coachella Fire Department in 1977. Over his 
decades' long career, he accumulated a wealth of leadership experience 
and made a difference in the lives of our friends, families, and 
neighbors.
  Every day, Captain Machuca answered the call to defend our community. 
For example, when a semi-tractor caught fire in Oasis, he rescued the 
driver from his truck before it engulfed in flames. This is just one 
instance of how Captain Machuca's bravery saved a life and prevented 
tragedy.
  Captain Machuca is more than a courageous first responder--he is also 
a skilled educator. As Fire Captain, he has instilled valuable lessons 
in the young firefighters he mentored, and he played a key role in 
growing Coachella's volunteer force.
  As a two-time recipient of the Firefighter of the Year award, Captain 
Machuca exemplifies the qualities of our community's firefighters who 
work tirelessly to keep us safe. His selflessness, courage, and 
dedication to public service are inspiring, and his legacy will be felt 
in Coachella for years to come.
  On behalf of our entire community, I thank Captain Machuca for his 
exceptional service and congratulate him on his well-deserved 
retirement.

                          ____________________