[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 146 (Thursday, September 19, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H5456]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1045
        HONORING ACHIEVEMENTS OF DEMITRI AYALA AND SERGIO LERMA

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from 
Texas (Ms. De La Cruz) for 5 minutes.
  Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the incredible 
achievements of two outstanding young men from the Rio Grande Valley.
  Demitri Ayala, a McAllen resident and recent high school graduate, 
has made us all proud by winning first place at the International 
Powerlifting Federation Sub-Junior and Junior World Powerlifting 
championship in Malta. Demitri's dedication and discipline serves as an 
inspiration to all of us.
  Madam Speaker, I also recognize Sergio Lerma from Donna, Texas, who 
earned second place in the same competition.
  Both of these young athletes have showcased not only their physical 
strength but their perseverance and commitment to excellence. Their 
accomplishments represent the best of south Texas, and we are 
incredibly proud to have them as part of our community.
  Madam Speaker, I congratulate Demitri and Sergio on their remarkable 
achievements.


                 Welcoming Home Chief Michael Sandoval

  Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, today, I have the distinct honor of 
welcoming home Chief Michael Sandoval of the United States Navy from 
his deployment in Djibouti, Africa.
  Senior Chief Sandoval led the boat maintenance facility, overseeing 
22 sailors and ensuring that all patrol boats were ready for critical 
missions in the area. His leadership and dedication were vital as his 
team launched and operated four patrol boats to safeguard Navy vessels, 
maintaining a strong security posture and a 360-degree perimeter until 
all vessels safely departed.
  In addition to their vigilant patrols, Senior Chief Sandoval and his 
team played a crucial role in training local Djibouti forces, enhancing 
their defensive tactics and strengthening partnerships.
  His service exemplifies the best of our military: strong leadership, 
a commitment to excellence, and dedication to the security of our great 
Nation.
  Madam Speaker, on behalf of our community, we welcome him home and 
thank him and his team for their service. May God bless him.


                Honoring the Life of Barbara Sue Reaves

  Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 
Barbara Sue Reaves, a remarkable woman from Alice, Texas, who passed 
away on August 21, 2024, at the age of 73.
  Barbara dedicated her life to public service, working first as a city 
planner and a grant writer for numerous cities, including her last role 
with the city of Alice. Her efforts played a crucial part in shaping 
and improving the communities she served, making her legacy one of 
lasting impact.
  Barbara's love for her family and her dedication to her faith were 
central to her life. She is survived by her brother, Alan, and his 
family, who will carry on her memory with love and pride.
  Barbara was also known for her passion for running and her devotion 
to her local church, where she was active and a cherished member.
  Madam Speaker, her passing is a great loss to all those who knew her, 
but her contributions will never be forgotten. We send our deepest 
condolences to her family and loved ones. May her memory be a blessing 
and an inspiration to all of us.

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