[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 163 (Tuesday, September 21, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1002]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING EUGENE GUTIERREZ

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. VICENTE GONZALEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 21, 2021

  Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Mr. Eugene Gutierrez of Edinburg, Texas for his incredible commitment 
to the community of South Texas, his service for our country, and to 
celebrate his 100th birthday.
  Mr. Gutierrez was born on September 14, 1921 and grew up in South 
Texas. He attended Harlingen High School and, after graduation, 
enlisted in the United States Army to pursue a career in engineering. 
However, after Japan's surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 
1941, Mr. Gutierrez's military career took a quick turn.
  Mr. Gutierrez began rigorous training with the First Special Service 
Force, an elite group of 1,800 troops from both American and Canadian 
armies at Fort William Henry Harrison in Montana. They were later 
dubbed as ``the Devil's Brigade'' by German opposition, in July of 
1942. During his time fighting in World War II, Mr. Gutierrez was 
honored with numerous awards, including: two Bronze Stars, one for 
valor and the other for infantry combat, a Liberation of France medal, 
a Good Conduct medal, a World War Two Victory medal, a First Special 
Service Force medal, and the Congressional Gold medal.
  Upon returning home from the war, Mr. Gutierrez went on to pursue a 
degree from Oklahoma State University and graduated in 1950. He then 
settled in McAllen, Texas where he served as an educator, principal, 
and superintendent at McAllen Independent School District for 30 years 
until he retired in 1980. Mr. Gutierrez continues to serve as an active 
member of the McAllen community through his work in the Sierra Club and 
as a parishioner at Our Lady of Sorrows Church.
  Madam Speaker, I stand here today to acknowledge the countless 
achievements of Eugene Gutierrez. He dedicated his life to the 
betterment of his community and his legacy will no doubt inspire future 
generations to do the same. His military service, devotion to the 
community, and general love for life is admirable. I thank Mr. 
Gutierrez, and wish him a happy 100th birthday.

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