[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E780-E781]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE MEMORY OF RAMIRO ``RAM'' CHAVEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. VICENTE GONZALEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, August 10, 2026

  Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
remarkable life and service of Mr. Ramiro ``Ram'' Chavez, a decorated 
Vietnam War veteran, educator, musician, and pillar of the Corpus 
Christi community.
  Mr. Chavez proudly served in the United States Army from 1967 to 
1969. As a combat medic with the 199th Infantry Brigade in Vietnam, he 
treated wounded soldiers during intense fighting, including the Tet 
Offensive. Among his many military honors, he earned the Combat Medical 
Badge, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star with ``V'' for valor, and the 
Purple Heart.
  Upon returning home to Corpus Christi, Texas, Mr. Chavez remained 
deeply committed to his community. He earned a bachelor's in music 
education from Texas A&M-

[[Page E781]]

Kingsville and a master's in school administration from Texas A&M-
Corpus Christi. He then spent 25 years with the Corpus Christi 
Independent School District as a band director, music teacher, and 
assistant principal. In 2024, Veterans Memorial High School dedicated 
the Ramiro ``Ram'' Chavez Performing Arts Hall in recognition of his 
lifelong service. Through education and music, he inspired generations 
of South Texas students.
  Mr. Chavez also founded and led the Veterans Band of Corpus Christi, 
bringing veterans together through music to honor American service 
members and preserve the memory of those who made the ultimate 
sacrifice. Through this organization, he fostered camaraderie among 
veterans while strengthening the community's appreciation for their 
service.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Texas' 34th Congressional 
District, I am proud to honor Mr. Chavez for his extraordinary life of 
service, sacrifice, and dedication. His legacy will continue to inspire 
veterans, students, musicians, and all South Texans.

                          ____________________