[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 30 (Thursday, February 12, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E134]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING RUBEN ESPARZA

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. ADAM GRAY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 12, 2026

  Mr. GRAY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my long-time friend 
Ruben Esparza, Modesto City Fire Captain and Modesto City Firefighters 
Association President, for his service and accomplishments as he 
retires after three decades of public service.
  Captain Esparza began his fire service career as a Fire Explorer with 
the City of Modesto in January, 1996. After gaining experience with CAL 
FIRE and the city of Newark Fire Department, he was hired as a Modesto 
Firefighter in 2003.
  In 2007, Captain Esparza became actively involved in labor 
representation when he joined the Modesto City Firefighters Association 
(MCFFA) Political Action Committee. In two years, he was appointed PAC 
Director which led to his election as MCFFA Secretary in 2010, as Vice 
President twice and, ultimately, as President of the Association.
  Under his watchful eye, Captain Esparza helped unite all City of 
Modesto labor organizations in a collaborative effort to successfully 
pass Measure H--a voter-approved one-cent sales tax increase, which 
generated about $48 million annually for public safety, road repair, 
homelessness initiatives and park maintenance with strict financial 
oversight by a citizens' board. It was the first time all city labor 
unions worked together toward a common goal for the betterment of the 
City of Modesto.
  Captain Esparza also worked to establish union policies that promote 
greater accountability and transparency for the membership. He was a 
fierce advocate for the Firefighter Peer Support Program and was the 
handler for their first facility dog, Hudson, who plays an integral 
role in peer support efforts. He nurtured future firefighters and 
MICFFA leaders and advocated for all firefighters who serve the 
communities of Modesto, Oakdale, Knights Ferry, Ceres, and Salida.
  With dedication and professionalism, Captain Esparza served the City 
of Modesto and the firefighters of MCFFA by focusing on building strong 
relationships, fostering collaborative partnerships and strengthening 
regional cooperation.
  It is my privilege to recognize my dear friend Ruben who has changed 
countless lives through his selfless public service. Please join me in 
honoring Captain Ruben Esparza for more than 30 years of his 
dedication, diligence and devotion to the people of the City of 
Modesto.

                          ____________________