Lewisville, TX – Today U.S. Rep. Michael C. Burgess (R-Lewisville), although he was unable to attend the event due to the voting schedule of the House of Representatives, recognized the five veterans who received this year’s Congressional Veteran Commendation (CVC). The CVC was created three years ago to honor the distinguished veterans of Texas’ 26^th Congressional District.

This year’s commendations were presented at the fifth 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 Walter Dyer of Highland Village, Susanne Hechinger of Flower Mound, James Mariades of Copper Canyon, William Springfield of Flower Mound, and Edward Weir of Denton.

“These extraordinary individuals were honored for their patriotic, dedicated service in the Armed Forces of the United States and continued beneficial service to their communities,” said Rep. Burgess. “They have not only served in our armed forces but have also continued their dedication to the nation by working tirelessly on behalf of their fellow veterans and serving the people of their communities.”

Gen. Charlie Hamm, who chaired the Congressional Veteran Commendation Review Board and was a past recipient, presented this year’s commendations on behalf of Congressman Burgess. Other members of the Review Board and past recipients as well are Johnnie Bulen, Reby Cary, Thomas Blagg, Woodrow Wilson Burch and Ivan Glasscock

In addition to recognizing this year’s Congressional Veterans Commendation recipients, Rep. Burgess presented former Highland Village Mayor Lawrence with his father’s Congressional Gold Medal for his father’s service with the Tuskegee Airman. Rep. Burgess also presented the Purple Heart Medal to U.S. Army SPC Robbie Strauch of Flower Mound in recognition of the wounds he sustained in Iraq while serving as a member of the 172^nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team.

“Thank you again to all the veterans for your service to the United State of America,” said Rep. Burgess. “On behalf of the citizens of the 26^th District and of a grateful nation, we are forever in your debt.”

###