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Year-End Report

Burgess Recognizes Local Veterans Service to Our Nation

Washington, November 8, 2019
Highland Village, TX – Today, Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, presented five former U.S. Armed Forces members with the 2019 26th Congressional District Veteran Commendation (CVC). The CVC, established in 2005, honors distinguished veterans who have continued their dedication to the nation by serving their local communities after selflessly serving their country in combat.

Photo: (left to right) Robert Kohankie, Sharon Balsley, James Trombley, Congressman Michael C. Burgess, Tom Kim, Carlos Gallardo

This year’s commendations were presented at the annual “Salute Our Veterans” luncheon hosted by the City of Highland Village and the Highland Village Business Association. Nominations were received from the community and veterans’ organizations. The five recipients of the 2019 Congressional Commendation are:
  • Sharon Balsley – US Army (Corinth)
  •  Carlos Gallardo – US Air Force (Frisco) 
  • Tom Kim -US Navy (Highland Village)
  • Robert Kohankie II – US Navy (Flower Mound) 
  • James Trombley – US Marine Corps (Frisco)

“While these selfless patriots may have retired their service uniforms, they are not finished serving our nation and our community,” said Burgess. “The caliber of this year’s nominations was truly outstanding. I want to extend my deepest appreciation to all of the nominees for their service to our country.”

“Our nation is truly blessed to have had such fine men and women answer the call to duty. As our armed forces bear the burden of protecting our liberty and freedom, our veterans deserve all of the respect and care that our country has to offer.”

Each recipient had their narrative read by Congressman Burgess, and he presented them with their commendation and a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol. 

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