H.R. No. 81 



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, Throughout the history of this nation, in times of 
great peril, men and women of the United States military have 
marched bravely into battle to defend our precious liberties; and
	WHEREAS, A member of Headquarters Troop, 2nd Armored Cavalry 
Regiment, U.S. Army Corporal Tomas Sotelo, Jr., embarked from Fort 
Polk, Louisiana, in support of our nation's campaign to liberate 
Iraqi citizens from oppression; while working to keep the peace in 
Baghdad, he was killed in action on June 27, 2003; and
	WHEREAS, A 2000 graduate of Houston's Reagan High School, 
this courageous soldier entered the Army that same year and was 
known for his infectious sense of humor as well as his ability to 
perform his duties with the utmost distinction; the beloved son of 
Tomas and Benancia Sotelo, he died for the hopes and dreams of men 
and women in this country; and
	WHEREAS, Unflinching bravery and a resolute commitment to 
fulfill his oath to serve, regardless of the personal consequences, 
were demonstrated by this valorous American, who gave his life to 
preserve liberty; the State of Texas and the nation now mourn the 
loss of Tomas Sotelo, Jr.: a soldier for a brief period, a hero 
forever; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas 
Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby honor the life of Tomas 
Sotelo, Jr., and extend deepest sympathy to his family: to his 
parents, Tomas and Benancia Sotelo; to his sisters, Flor Lopez and 
Erica Sotelo; to his brother, Jose Sotelo; and to his other 
relatives and many friends; and, be it further
	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 
prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of 
Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of U.S. Army 
Corporal Tomas Sotelo, Jr.

                                                                          Farrar


                                                  ______________________________
                                                       Speaker of the House     

	I certify that H.R. No. 81 was unanimously adopted by a rising 
vote of the House on July 18, 2003.

                                                  ______________________________
                                                     Chief Clerk of the House