Pictured left to right: Andre “Frenchy” Rheault, Forrest Beadle, Jack Bailey, Congressman Michael Burgess, Doug Brown, Gary Steele

Highland Village, TX – This week, U.S. Rep. Michael C. Burgess (R-Lewisville) recognized the five veterans who received this year’s 26^th District Congressional Veteran Commendation (CVC).  The CVC was created in 2005 to honor the distinguished living veterans of Texas’ 26^th Congressional District.  Nominations were received from the community, veterans’ organizations and civic groups.

This year’s commendations were presented at the annual “Salute Our Veterans” luncheon sponsored by the Highland Village Business Association and the City of Highland Village. The five recipients of this year’s Congressional Veteran Commendation are:

Jack Bailey - Flower Mound
(Major - US Army/Commander - U.S. Navy)  

Forrest Beadle - Denton
(Captain - U.S. Army)

Doug Brown - Flower Mound
(Chief Warrant Officer - U.S. Army)

Andre “Frenchy” Rheault - Denton
(Master Sergeant - U.S. Air Force)         

Gary Steele - Denton
Senior Master Sergeant - U.S. Air Force               

“Five extraordinary individuals were selected to receive the 2015 Congressional Veteran Commendation,” said Rep. Burgess.  “They served in the Armed Forces of the United States with distinction and continued their dedication to the nation by striving tirelessly on behalf of their fellow veterans and serving the people in their communities.”

“While we have singled out these veterans for recognition, I want to extend my deepest appreciation to all veterans for your service to the United States of America,” Rep. Burgess remarked to the approximate 300 luncheon attendees.  

Congressman Burgess also provided each Vietnam War veteran in attendance with a special 50^th anniversary commemorative lapel pin.  Rep. Burgess read the embossed message on the reverse of the pin to the audience, “A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You.” “On behalf of the citizens of the 26^th District we do indeed express our gratitude to you for your service and extend a welcome home.”