[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 43 (Monday, March 9, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E199]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING MR. GREG FIRST

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                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 9, 2026

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an 
extraordinary servant leader and veteran, Mr. Greg First, whose 
selfless dedication to his community embodies the very spirit of the 
2026 Heroes Among Us Congressional Award. As a proud United States Air 
Force veteran, Greg has carried his commitment to service far beyond 
his time in uniform. For the past five years, he has faithfully 
volunteered at the Metropolitan Ministries East Pasco Family Support 
Center, where he has become an indispensable member of the team, During 
that time, he has completed more than 250 volunteer shifts and 
contributed over 860 hours of hands-on, compassionate service to 
individuals and families in need. Greg's work is often quiet but deeply 
impactful. Whether answering phones, comforting a caller in crisis, 
assisting families seeking essential support, or guiding guests through 
available resources, he approaches every responsibility with patience, 
empathy, and genuine care. His steady presence offers reassurance 
during some of life's most difficult moments.
  What sets Greg apart is not only his consistency, but the warmth he 
brings to every interaction. Staff, volunteers, and clients alike 
describe him as a source of hope and encouragement. His positive energy 
and contagious enthusiasm create an atmosphere of dignity and welcome 
throughout the East Pasco campus. Simply put, he lifts spirits simply 
by being present. Beyond his daily volunteer efforts, Greg's deep roots 
in the East Pasco community strengthen the mission of Metropolitan 
Ministries. Through longstanding local relationships and authentic 
community engagement, he helps build meaningful connections that expand 
outreach and ensure that support reaches those who need it most.
  Greg's faithful and humble service reflects the very best of our 
Nation's values. He does not seek recognition or applause. Instead, he 
quietly and consistently works to improve the lives of others--
motivated not by reward, but by conviction and compassion. In every 
sense, Greg First exemplifies what it means to be a hero among us. His 
dedication to both country and community serves as an inspiring 
reminder that the call to serve does not end with military service--it 
continues in the everyday acts of kindness that strengthen our 
neighborhoods and uplift our fellow citizens. For his extraordinary 
commitment, uplifting presence, and steadfast devotion to serving 
others, I am proud to recognize Greg First as a 2026 Hero Among Us for 
Florida's 12th Congressional District.

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