Lake Dallas, T.X. — Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, issued the following statement after he presented five North Texas veterans with the 2018 26th Congressional District Veteran Commendation (CVC). Established in 2005, this commendation honors distinguished veterans who have continued their dedication to the nation by serving their local community.

“As we mark 100 years since the end of World War I, it is more important than ever to honor the sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. Today it was a privilege to pay tribute to five outstanding North Texas veterans who have answered the call to serve. While these selfless patriots have retired their service uniforms, they remain dedicated to their North Texas neighbors and our community. Today and every day, I am sincerely grateful for their contributions to Texas and our nation.”  

The five recipients of the 2018 Congressional Commendation are:

• Virgil Aldag (U.S. Army), Denton        
• Lewis Duckwall II (U.S. Marine Corps), Lake Dallas
• Robert Lessard (U.S. Army), Aubrey
• Christopher Martin (U.S. Army), Argyle                    
• Gustav Wittschack (U.S. Army), Cross Roads

Photo: (front row left to right) Christopher Martin, Gustav Wittschack, Congressman Michael C. Burgess
 (back row left to right) Virgil Aldag, Lewis Duckwall II, Robert Lessard

This year’s awards 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. In addition to the commendation, Dr. Burgess presented a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to each recipient. 
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