Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a champion for our local veterans, Rafael ``Ralph'' Duarte, and to thank him for his years of service to our communities. Tomorrow, Ralph will transition after 10 years with the Riverside County Department of Veteran Services, where he has built a legacy as a fierce advocate, pillar of strength, and beacon of hope for Riverside County veterans. Ralph was born in Delano, California, and graduated from Coachella Valley High School. He is a decorated Army veteran, having served for 4 years in Iraq and Afghanistan with the 3rd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. After he returned home from the battlefield, he settled in Indio, California, and immediately got to work. He has helped thousands of veterans recover their earned benefits that were denied to them by local, State, and Federal agencies over the years. In fact, it is estimated that he has helped local veterans and their families obtain $55 million in monetary benefits. That is $55 million to get them the care they need, the salary they have earned, and the recognition they deserve. He truly goes above and beyond to serve others, even making home visits just to help elderly veterans fill out the necessary paperwork to get their VA benefits and care. Ralph has participated in hundreds of community events.…”