[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 40 (Thursday, March 2, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Pages S637-S638]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS

      By Mr. PADILLA (for himself and Ms. Lummis):
  S. 633. A bill to award a Congressional Gold Medal to Everett 
Alvarez, Jr., in recognition of his service to the United States; to 
the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

[[Page S638]]

  

  Mr. PADILLA. Madam President, I rise to introduce the Everett 
Alvarez, Jr., Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2023. This bipartisan 
legislation would award a Congressional Gold Medal to Everett Alvarez, 
Jr., in recognition of his service to the Nation.
  This legislation would honor Navy Commander Everett Alvarez, Jr., the 
second longest held POW in American history, with a Congressional Gold 
Medal.
  On August 5, 1964, while flying Operation Pierce Arrow, Commander 
Alvarez's A-4 Skyhawk was shot down, and he became the first aviator 
captured in Vietnam. He spent 8 years and 6 months in captivity, 
becoming the second longest held prisoner of war in U.S. history. While 
being held in Vietnam, Alvarez crossed paths with the late Senator John 
McCain, who was also being held as a POW at the Hoa Lo prison, Hanoi 
Hilton.
  Despite facing torture, isolation, and starvation, he encouraged and 
inspired fellow POWs to ``Return with Honor'' by not cooperating with 
the enemy and remaining loyal to the United States. Following his 
release and hospitalization, Commander Alvarez resumed his naval 
service, completing a 20-year career with the Navy and retiring in June 
1980.
  Our bill would recognize his incredible sacrifice by awarding him 
with the highest award that Congress can bestow.
  This year marks the 50th anniversary of Commander Alvarez's release 
from captivity in Vietnam. It is time that Congress recognizes the 
second longest held prisoner of war in American history for his 
enduring commitment to the United States.
  I would like to thank my colead, Senator Lummis, for her support to 
ensure we properly recognize, on a bipartisan basis, the profound 
impact of Commander Alvarez's service and support for other prisoners 
of war. I also thank Representatives Panetta and Fallon for introducing 
companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
  I look forward to working with my colleagues to enact the Everett 
Alvarez, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act as quickly as possible.

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