[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 100 (Thursday, May 28, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E495]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE LIFE OF ARMY SPC. JUAN MIGUEL MENDEZ COVARRUBIAS

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TJ COX

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 28, 2020

  Mr. COX of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Army 
Specialist Juan Miguel Mendez Covarrubias of Hanford, California, who 
gave his life in service to his country on March 11, 2020. While 
deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve at Camp Taji, Iraq, 
his unit was engaged by enemy indirect fire and he lost his life. He 
was 27 years old.
  A Central Valley native, Juan Miguel was a beloved son, brother, and 
husband. In 2018 he married his longtime girlfriend Bianca Meza and 
that same year he enlisted in the United States Army as a Signal 
Support System Specialist. Juan Miguel was assigned to 1st Battalion, 
227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, 
Fort Hood, Texas.
  Juan Miguel aspired to make the world a better place and always 
pushed himself to lead by example. He is remembered fondly as someone 
with a big heart and who always put the needs of others before his own. 
Our nation has lost a great warrior. He is a true American Hero and his 
memory will live on in the hearts of those who love him.
  Juan Miguel's awards and decorations include the Global War on 
Terrorism Medal, National Defense Service Ribbon, and the Army Service 
Ribbon. I ask my colleagues to join me in a moment of remembrance for 
Army Specialist Juan Miguel Mendez Covarrubias, and for all those who 
have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
  Juan Miguel is survived by his wife Bianca, his mother Monica Mendez, 
his father Alfredo Covarrubias and his younger brother and sisters.

                          ____________________