SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 501


In Memory

of

Ray Rangel

	WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the 
citizens of San Antonio and Texas in mourning the loss of
United States Air Force Staff Sergeant Ray Rangel, who died at 
the age of 29 on February 13, 2005, while serving his country 
during Operation Iraqi Freedom; and
	WHEREAS, Ray was born in San Antonio on September 23, 1975; 
he attended South San Antonio High School, where he played 
defensive back on the Bobcats' football team, and graduated in 
1994; he enlisted in the United States Air Force in September of 
1994; and
	WHEREAS, Staff Sergeant Rangel, a highly decorated and 
well-trained firefighter, earned numerous commendations for his 
exemplary military service; he was deployed to Iraq in September, 
2004, with the 7th Civil Engineering Squadron based at Dyess Air 
Force Base near Abilene; and
	WHEREAS, A courageous, compassionate gentleman, he lost 
his own life while attempting to rescue other soldiers whose 
military vehicle had rolled into a canal; and
	WHEREAS, Ray was well known for his thoughtfulness, 
kindness, and genuine concern for others; he loved his family and 
his country, and his last act was a heroic sacrifice; and
	WHEREAS, Ray Rangel was a devoted husband, father, son, and 
brother, and he leaves behind memories that will be treasured 
forever by his family and many friends; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas,
79th Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the life of Staff Sergeant
Ray Rangel and extend sincere condolences to his bereaved family:  
his wife, Selena; his sons, Justin, Jacob, and Gabriel; his 
daughter, Lilliana; his mother, Cynthia Rangel; his father, 
Federico Rangel; and his three sisters; and, be it further
	RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for 
members of his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from 
the Texas Senate, and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it 
do so in memory of Staff Sergeant Ray Rangel.
                                                                    Van de Putte




________________________________ 
    President of the Senate
 
    I hereby certify that the 
above Resolution was adopted by 
the Senate on March 30, 2005, by a 
rising vote.



________________________________ 
    Secretary of the Senate



________________________________ 
     Member, Texas Senate