Houston, TX - Congressman Al Green (TX-9) hosted a ceremony to Appreciation and Memorial Ceremony honoring service members and veterans of the War on Terror and previous wars this past weekend.  The ceremony also commemorated the life of Private First Class Leroy Sandoval, Jr. who was killed in the line of duty in Iraq in March 2004 and was a constituent of the 9th Congressional District.

Green was unable to attend memorial ceremony due to unexpected legislative votes over the weekend. In his absence, Green’s staff did an exceptional job of ensuring that the event was a success.

“Veterans and service members came together to honor the life of a fellow soldier who was killed in the line of duty.  The risky work our soldiers are performing requires that they put their lives on the line everyday.  I commend them for their courage,” said Green.

Members of Private Sandoval’s family, community leaders, active duty service members, and veterans of previous wars attended the Appreciation and Memorial Ceremony.  Following the ceremony, the service members gathered together to share stories of their time in the service.

“I trust this ceremony provided service members with the opportunity to connect with one another and support one another.  We all are thankful for the sacrifices they have made in the name of freedom and justice,” commented Green.