SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 76
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize Emilio "Ray" Aguirre, who has been selected for the
Texas Community Health Network's first annual Unsung Heroes
Award; and
WHEREAS, Ray Aguirre graduated from Sidney Lanier High
School in 1946 and joined the United States Marines; he served
honorably until 1947, when he was placed in the Marine Corps
Reserve; and
WHEREAS, He was called to active duty in August of 1950
during the Korean Conflict and fought against the Chinese in the
Battle at the Chosin Valley Reservoir, where he was wounded and
endured severe frostbite; he received the Purple Heart, retired
with 100 percent disability, and subsequently wrote about his
experiences in the book, We'll Be Home for Christmas; and
WHEREAS, He began civilian life in 1951 as a sheet metal
worker; he was curator for the Museum of Aerospace Medicine at
Brooks Air Force Base; a talented artist, he became a medical
book illustrator, and he painted a picture depicting the first
man on the moon that still stands inside the historic Brooks City
Base Hangar 9; and
WHEREAS, He was a founder of the San Antonio Chapter of the
Chosin Few and a member of the Purple Heart Association and
Disabled American Veterans Association; he is past president of
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9186; he designed and directed the
building of the Korean War Veterans Memorial that stands in front
of the Municipal Auditorium; and
WHEREAS, A devoted husband and father of four, Ray Aguirre
has long been a respected leader in his community, active in
youth athletics and fundraising for various causes; in
retirement, he has served as a volunteer for the Memorial
Detachment Service at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery; and
WHEREAS, Heroes are those individuals who inspire us by
their courage, sacrifice, and perseverance in facing challenges;
Ray Aguirre exemplifies the true spirit of heroism through his
service, his allegiance, and his commitment to helping others; he
is indeed worthy of special recognition; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st
Legislature, hereby commend Emilio "Ray" Aguirre for his loyalty
and selfless service to others and congratulate him on being
selected for the Texas Community Health Network's first annual
Unsung Heroes Award; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
him as an expression of highest regard from the Texas Senate.
Van de Putte
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President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on January 28, 2009.
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Secretary of the Senate
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Member, Texas Senate