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Congressional Daily Record
This section is a tribute, commemoration, or district-facing statement. It mentions members such as Vicente Gonzalez. Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
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May 11, 2026
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Extensions of Remarks
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Download official Extensions PDFReturn to issue contextHON. VICENTE GONZALEZ
of texas
in the house of representatives
Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life and service of Jose Noe Mendez, who recently celebrated his 101st birthday. A proud veteran, dedicated mechanic, and important pillar of our community, Mr. Mendez's life reflects a legacy of service.
At just 17 years old, Mr. Mendez pursued an education in aircraft engine mechanics in Corpus Christi, Texas, quickly proving himself as one of the top students in his program. He was soon drafted into service during World War II and deployed to the front lines in Germany where he served in the 1st Infantry Division.
Mr. Mendez served with exceptional courage during some of the most difficult battles, including the Hurtgen Forest and the Battle of the Bulge. For his bravery, he earned the Purple Heart. Following the war, Mr. Mendez was honorably discharged in 1947 with the rank of Technical Sergeant after serving as a guard during the Nuremberg Trials.
Upon returning home, Mr. Mendez remained deeply committed to his community. He helped organize the Freedom Party in Benavides, Texas, and led the creation of a vocational school for veteran focused on mechanics. Later, he settled in Corpus Christi, where he owned and operated Mendez Automatic Transmission for 47 years.
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Texas's 34th Congressional District, I am proud to recognize Jose Noe Mendez for his extraordinary life of service, sacrifice, and resilience. His continued dedication inspires all those around him.