[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 132 (Tuesday, August 20, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E835]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING SERGEANT LORENZO F. GARRISI AS THE AUGUST VETERAN OF THE MONTH 
                      FOR MICHIGAN'S 9TH DISTRICT

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LISA C. McCLAIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, August 20, 2024

  Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
extraordinary service and contributions of Sergeant Lorenzo F. Garrisi, 
our esteemed August Veteran of the Month for Michigan's 9th 
Congressional District. Mr. Garrisi's life is a testament to courage, 
dedication, and unwavering commitment both during his service in the 
U.S. Army and his work in our community.
  Born in Balestrate, Sicily, Lorenzo immigrated to the United States 
at the age of 7, arriving through Ellis Island, New York, before moving 
with his family to Detroit. After graduating from East Detroit High 
School, he attended Lawrence Technological University. However, at the 
age of 20, Lorenzo left his studies to support his family by working in 
the family business, Ornamental Iron Works. His sense of duty extended 
beyond his family obligations when he was drafted into the U.S. Army 
during the Vietnam War on November 14, 1967.
  Lorenzo's military career began with basic training at Fort Knox, 
Kentucky, and he was soon assigned to the 11th Armored Cavalry, First 
Squadron (C Troop), under the command of General George S. Patton, Jr. 
His valor and resilience were evident throughout his service in 
Vietnam. By April 1968, he was deployed to Vietnam, where his bravery 
and leadership shone brightly. Within a year, Lorenzo was promoted to 
Sergeant at the age of 21, and he was entrusted with significant 
responsibilities, including serving as a driver for General Patton on 
occasion.
  Lorenzo's service was marked by extraordinary heroism. He earned two 
Purple Hearts--one for surviving deadly crossfire while scouting to 
report back to his base, and another for sustaining shrapnel injuries 
in his face and back after an RPG attack on the tank he was driving. 
His selflessness and courage were further recognized with a Bronze Star 
for saving his captain's life and carrying him to safety following an 
ambush.
  After his distinguished service, Lorenzo returned home and married 
his wife, Antoinette, in the spring of 1971. Together, they raised 
three children. Lorenzo then embarked on a successful career as a 
builder, founding ``Sunshine Homes'' in the early 1980s. Now retired, 
Lorenzo continues to serve his community with the same dedication he 
showed in his military career. As the current president of the 
``Americans of Italian Origin'' (AIO), he plays a pivotal role in the 
AIO Annual Seafood Dinner, raising thousands of dollars in scholarships 
for the children and grandchildren of local Italian Americans. Lorenzo 
also contributes to the Quality of Life Committee of ``Focus Macomb,'' 
offering valuable recommendations to improve living conditions in 
Macomb County. His past involvement with the Italian American Chamber 
of Commerce further highlights his commitment to community service.
  Mr. Speaker, Lorenzo F. Garrisi's life of service and leadership 
exemplifies the highest ideals of patriotism and dedication. His 
heroism in Vietnam and his continued community service serves as a 
beacon of inspiration for us all. On behalf of a grateful Nation, I ask 
my colleagues to join me in expressing our deepest gratitude and 
admiration for Sergeant Lorenzo F. Garrisi's exemplary service to our 
country and community.

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