U.S. Rep. Michael C. Burgess from Texas's 26th congressional district | Official U.S. House Headshot
U.S. Rep. Michael C. Burgess from Texas's 26th congressional district | Official U.S. House Headshot
On Veterans Day, Congressman Michael Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the Rules Committee, recognized five veterans with the 26th Congressional District Veteran Commendation at the Highland Village Business Association's 'Salute Our Veterans' Luncheon. He also addressed attendees at the Denton County Veterans Day Ceremony on the Denton Square.
"Our veterans are not merely heroes in uniform; they are the living embodiment of courage and selflessness. They are the heart and soul of our nation," said Congressman Burgess. "I was honored to recognize these five outstanding Veterans with the 2024 Congressional Veteran Commendation. They've faced adversity and made sacrifices that most of us can't even imagine. While we pay tribute to our veterans, let us also recognize the responsibility we bear to ensure that they receive the support and care they deserve. It is our duty as Americans to stand by these individuals who have given so much for our freedoms and our country."
The commendations were presented at this year's twentieth annual "Salute Our Veterans" luncheon, sponsored by both the Highland Village Business Association and the City of Highland Village. Nominations came from public submissions, leading to recognition for:
- Thomas Balmer (Sergeant - U.S. Army), Carrollton
- Kasey Brown (Sergeant - U.S. Marine Corps), Justin
- Frank Dixon (Corporal - U.S. Marine Corps), Flower Mound
- Christopher Garner (Specialist - Army National Guard), Gainesville
- John Miller (Captain - U.S. Army), Frisco
The CVC was established in 2005 to honor distinguished living veterans from Texas’ 26th Congressional District. The 2024 board consisted of past recipients: Forrest Beadle (2015 CVC), Richard Crossley, Jr. (2021 CVC), Jerry Galler (2013 CVC), and Susanne Hechinger (2007 CVC).
Congressman Burgess read narratives about each recipient before presenting them with a United States flag. Additionally, he gave printed remarks from his Congressional Record submission to Highland Village Mayor Charlotte Wilcox, honoring eighty-six past recipients of the program and recognizing the annual “Salute Our Heroes” luncheon hosted by both sponsoring organizations.
Alerts Sign-up