[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 6 (Thursday, January 11, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E28]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  REMEMBERING SERGEANT JUAN ERIC CANTU

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GREGORY F. MURPHY

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 11, 2024

  Mr. MURPHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an incredible person, 
honorable soldier, and remarkable community member, the late Sergeant 
Juan ``Eric'' Cantu. Sergeant Cantu honorably served our Nation in the 
U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. A native of Lenoir County, graduating 
in 1964 and immediately enlisting in the Army. After working in 
Illinois for a few years, he returned home to Kingston, earning his 
industrial maintenance degree from Lenoir Community College in 1986. He 
served as the Commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars, President of 
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 892, and a founding member of 
AmVets Post 1111.
  Mr. Cantu is most known for founding the G.I. Joe Living Military 
History Museum, displaying memorabilia, uniforms, weapons, and photos 
from all major conflicts starting with the Revolutionary War. More than 
just a museum; it is a place of solace where veterans freely share 
their experiences and heal their wounds. Thanks to him, many veterans' 
lives have been saved due to the community and camaraderie fostered at 
the museum.
  According to those who knew him the best, they cherished his work 
ethic, optimism, and community involvement. I thank them for joining me 
in celebrating the life of this wonderful Veteran. I wish Mr. Cantu's 
family the best in the future and hope that Mr. Cantu's creation, the 
G.I. Joe Living Military History Museum, can continue to serve those 
who gave it all.

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