[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 52 (Friday, March 21, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E234]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING SERGEANT DAVID LOREDO'S 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                         HON. SYLVIA R. GARCIA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 21, 2025

  Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an American 
hero--Sergeant David Loredo--who turns 100 this month. Born on March 
20, 1925, in Sinton, Texas, on the Gulf Coast, David's life embodies 
the grit, sacrifice, and unwavering spirit of our nation.
  Like so many of his generation, he knew hardship early, picking 
cotton as a child and learning resilience with every bushel. But fate 
had bigger plans. His hands, once worn by farm work and concrete, soon 
carried a rifle and a radio. His feet, once dusted with Texas soil, 
marched through the jungles of the South Pacific.
  On March 17, 1945, leading a reconnaissance mission in the 
Philippines, David was shot alongside his scout. His first thought? 
That he'd never see his mother again. But he had time--and prayer--on 
his side. Back home, his mother took advantage of churches staying open 
24/7, putting in extra hours praying for his safe return. And return he 
did.
  For his service, David received the Purple Heart, Silver Star, Bronze 
Arrowhead, Good Conduct Medal, and multiple campaign honors. After his 
discharge at Fort Bliss, he came home to Houston, found steady work, 
and--thanks to the GI Bill--discovered his true craft: watch repair. 
The same patience that saw him through war now helped him master time 
itself.
  A century later, David's story reminds us that faith and 
determination can carry a man across oceans, through war, and into a 
life of purpose. Today, we honor not just his years, but the lessons he 
leaves us: service, resilience, and the precious gift of time well 
spent.
  Happy 100th to Sergeant Loredo. The watch keeper keeps on ticking.

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