HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MR. MICHAEL CORTEZ

On 2026-06-24, Representative Richard McCormick (R-GA-7) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MR. MICHAEL CORTEZ" in the House.

HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MR. MICHAEL CORTEZ

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 106 (Wednesday, June 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 106 (Wednesday, June 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E614] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MR. MICHAEL CORTEZ ______ HON. RICHARD McCORMICK of georgia in the house of representatives Wednesday, June 24, 2026 Mr. McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Michael ``Phoenix'' Cortez. Michael's childhood during the Great Depression instilled him with humility and determination, eager to explore the world and take on life's challenges. Michael served in both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps as a bilingual service member, then he went on to be a reservist in the U.S. Air Force. After the conclusion of Michael's active service, he demonstrated his lasting commitment to the public sector through his work as a civilian employee in the Department of Defense. Over the course of his career, Michael participated in highly classified missions and collaborated on advanced aircraft systems. He was able to travel the globe, broadening his horizons across several cultures and lifestyles and engaging in top secret defense programs. Michael's enduring dedication to his country was characterized by unwavering loyalty and selfless devotion. My prayers are with the Cortez family as they go through this difficult time. In addition to being an incredible man, Michael was a loving husband to his wife, Sharon, and a devoted father to his five children, Michael, Michele, Sherry, Marnie, and Blayne. He is also survived by four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Service requires sacrifice, and military families pay that price in the time we spend away from our families, while defending our great Nation. May God watch over Michael, Michele, Sherry, Marnie, and Blayne, and Sharon, who stood by Michael throughout his career. ____________________