HONORING THE LIFE OF LIEUTENANT VAZQUEZ: Congressional Record

By Rep. Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon

Originally published in the Congressional Record, Vol. 168, No. 42
(Extensions of Remarks - March 9, 2022)

HONORING THE LIFE OF LIEUTENANT VAZQUEZ

______

HON. JENNIFFER GONZALEZ-COLON

of Puerto Rico

in the House of Representatives

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Miss GONZALEZ-COLON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Puerto Rico's Women Veterans Day with a special story that reflects the bravery and sacrifice of our servicemembers. Earlier this year we celebrated the 100th birthday of First Lieutenant Carmen Vazquez. Carmen was born in Cidra, Puerto Rico, on February 15, 1921 and was raised by a single mother. She chose to enlist as a Nursing Aide during WWII, bucking social conventions of the time while performing essential medical care for the war's wounded. For her actions, she received the WWII Victory Medal, the American Theater Campaign Medal, and the Overseas Service Bars. After a short interlude of peace, she would receive a piece of mail from President Dwight D. Eisenhower asking her to return to service once more. She again answered the call, but this time she served as an officer in the newly minted United States Air Force. Her passionate service to country reflects the very best our nation can offer. Her service, like the service of all those who have served honorably in our Armed Forces, is an example for all of us during these difficult times when peace is too short, and wars are too common. On this Women Veterans Day, I hope we may all learn from Lt. Vazquez's example of enduring courage in the days to come, as each of us are asked to sacrifice in different ways for a greater good.

   ____________________