79R15421 BJM-D

By:  Uresti                                                       H.R. No. 1531



R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, San Antonio's Jose M. Lopez distinguished himself 
through his legendary acts of bravery and valor as a member of the 
United States Army during World War II, and it is indeed a privilege 
to pay tribute to him at this time; and
	WHEREAS, Sergeant Lopez ably served as a machine gunner in 
the army's 23rd Infantry, 2nd Division, and for his selfless 
actions he was named a recipient of the Congressional Medal of 
Honor; he became the fourth American of Mexican descent to receive 
this prestigious honor, and his heroism has inspired countless 
individuals; and
	WHEREAS, On December 17, 1944, with his company entrenched in 
combat in Belgium, Sergeant Lopez single-handedly held off the 
enemy with his heavy machine gun, protecting his company's flank 
until it was able to safely withdraw from the area; and
	WHEREAS, Virtually unprotected from enemy fire, he withstood 
the German artillery and fought back the advancing infantry; his 
decisive actions and remarkable courage prevented his company's 
position from being outflanked and saved the lives of many of his 
fellow soldiers; and
	WHEREAS, At a time when courage and heroism are in high 
demand, it is important  to honor those heroes who led the way with 
their selflessness and patriotism for those who have followed in 
their footsteps, and Jose M. Lopez is most deserving of this 
recognition; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 79th Texas 
Legislature hereby pay tribute to Sergeant Jose M. Lopez for his 
courageous efforts during World War II and extend to him the 
heartfelt gratitude and admiration of his fellow citizens; and, be 
it further
	RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be 
prepared for Mr. Lopez as an expression of high regard by the Texas 
House of Representatives.