Political Quotes

“This week, on Veterans Day, we honor those who have bravely served in our Nation's military. Our veterans served with incredible selflessness; they served with great courage; and they served with sacrifice, often leaving behind spouses, children, and loved ones to keep our Nation safe and to protect the freedoms we hold so dear. For this, our veterans and their families have earned our respect and our deep debt of gratitude. On Veterans Day, we take a moment to pause and reflect on their service. So today, I want to recognize the life of one of my district's finest members, Pete M. Ortiz. Mr. Ortiz passed away on September 14, 2017, at the age of 76. He came from a family that has committed themselves to serving our country in uniform for generations. Since World War II, over 50 members--50 members--of the Ortiz family have bravely served in our Armed Forces, putting their lives on the line to protect our freedoms. Following his family's legacy, Mr. Ortiz honorably served in the Army National Guard from 1956 to 1960. He was awarded the Marksman Badge and Pistol Bar, an honor presented to soldiers with high marksmanship skills. I was proud to help obtain and personally present him with these medals for his distinguished service. Mr. Ortiz was also a beloved member of the Coachella Valley. Not only was he a carpenter and avid fisherman, he was part of a unique desert skydive team, the Desert Skydivers of Coachella.…”