Washington, D.C. – Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health released the following statement after learning about the unexpected death of Midshipman Duke Anthony Carrillo of Flower Mound, TX.

"Duke had a strong desire to serve his country. He believed that service to country is one of the greatest achievements a man can have, and that he was called to take a stand to serve and protect our nation.

“This young man strived for greatness in all that he did. He was a three-year varsity letterman as a football player and wrestler, an Eagle Scout, member of the Flower Mound High School Student Council, and an active church and community volunteer.

“Duke received nominations to attend the United States Naval Academy and United States Merchant Marine Academy. He also received a letter of assurance from the United States Coast Guard Academy. On June 28, 2018, Duke was inducted in the Naval Academy’s Class of 2022, with his twin brother Dylan.

“Aspiring to be a naval aviator, Duke was a member of the Naval Academy’s Flight Training Squadron and was selected to serve as a Naval Academy Summer Seminar squad leader. He majored in quantitative economics, was an active member of the 24^th Company, and an intramural athlete.

“Our nation has lost a brilliant young leader. May the world be inspired by this young man’s legacy and strive to follow in his footsteps.”