- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: June 25, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
HON. PABLO JOSE HERNANDEZ
of puerto rico
in the house of representatives
Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Elizabeth Martinez Gonzalez of Dorado, who will be sworn in as Department Commander of The American Legion, Department of Puerto Rico. Her service to our Nation and leadership within our community exemplify the finest traditions of patriotism and civic engagement.
Puerto Rico National Guard, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. Throughout her military career, she distinguished herself in areas of critical responsibility—security operations, emergency preparedness, military police work, recruitment,
and retention. Her expertise in chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense earned her recognition as a CBRN specialist. More significantly, she became the first woman to serve on the 22nd Civil Support Team's Weapons of Mass Destruction Survey Team in Puerto Rico, breaking new ground and opening doors for those who followed.
in the War on Terror, support at Guantanamo, and humanitarian assistance following Hurricane Katrina. She demonstrated unwavering discipline, courage, and dedication in each assignment.
Her commitment to service did not end with her military career. Elizabeth has devoted herself to advancing the veteran community and our young people through the American Legion, Department of Puerto Rico. She has served as Commander of Post 45 in Dorado, First Vice Commander of the Department, and as Chairwoman of Americanism, Conventions, Communications and Media, and our Youth Oratorical Program. Most recently, she was elected Commander of the Department of Puerto Rico for the 2026-2028 term—making her only the second woman to hold this position in the organization's 103-year history.
veterans and young people across Puerto Rico, promoting civic responsibility, constitutional respect, youth leadership, discipline, athletics, education, and community service.
community, Elizabeth has carried with her the values of Dorado and Puerto Rico. She embodies integrity, perseverance, compassion, and a profound love for our people.
example and celebrate her achievements as inspiration for generations to come.