[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 159 (Friday, September 29, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E920]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING JAMES MANUEL VILLA WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN 
                              COMMENDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 29, 2023

  Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to present James Manuel 
Villa of Waco, Texas with a Congressional Veteran Commendation.
  James Villa's dedication is evident from his three combat deployments 
in Iraq with the Marines First Division, Second Battalion, 5th 
Regiment. Joining the Marines in 2002, his initial engagement in 2003 
saw participation in the Battle of Al Faw, capturing pivotal regions 
around the Rumaila Oil Field, and ensuring security and stability in 
Samawah, Iraq. His subsequent deployment in 2004 to Ramadi earned him 
the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with combat distinguished 
service, a testament to his leadership as a fire team leader.
  Even after fulfilling his enlistment and intending to pursue 
education at Baylor University, duty called him back. His third 
deployment brought more accolades for distinguished service in 
Fallujah, coupled with the significant responsibility of training 70 
Iraqi police recruits. He attained the rank of Sergeant, receiving his 
honorable discharge in 2009.
  Following his service with the Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton in 
2009, James transitioned to education. He achieved his Bachelor of Arts 
from Rockhurst University in 2011 and later a Master of Education from 
Tarleton State University. Besides his academic achievements, James's 
impact in the community of Waco is profound. As an eighth-grade science 
teacher, he was celebrated as the 2017 Waco ISD Secondary Teacher of 
the Year. Today, he stands as a beacon of leadership and hope as the 
principal of La Vega High School, holding a deep-seated belief in the 
potential of every student and their ability to effect change in their 
community.
  James, alongside his wife Ivy, are the proud parents of five 
daughters and three sons, reflecting his commitment both to family and 
nation.
  For his relentless dedication to his country, and now his community, 
it is with deep respect that I present the Congressional Veteran 
Commendation to James M. Villa.