HONORING THE MEMORY OF RAMIRO "RAM" CHAVEZ

On 2026-08-10, Representative Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX-34) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE MEMORY OF RAMIRO "RAM" CHAVEZ" in the House.

HONORING THE MEMORY OF RAMIRO "RAM" CHAVEZ

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E780-E781] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE MEMORY OF RAMIRO ``RAM'' CHAVEZ ______ HON. VICENTE GONZALEZ of texas in the house of representatives Monday, August 10, 2026 Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life and service of Mr. Ramiro ``Ram'' Chavez, a decorated Vietnam War veteran, educator, musician, and pillar of the Corpus Christi community. Mr. Chavez proudly served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1969. As a combat medic with the 199th Infantry Brigade in Vietnam, he treated wounded soldiers during intense fighting, including the Tet Offensive. Among his many military honors, he earned the Combat Medical Badge, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star with ``V'' for valor, and the Purple Heart. Upon returning home to Corpus Christi, Texas, Mr. Chavez remained deeply committed to his community. He earned a bachelor's in music education from Texas A&M- [[Page E781]] Kingsville and a master's in school administration from Texas A&M- Corpus Christi. He then spent 25 years with the Corpus Christi Independent School District as a band director, music teacher, and assistant principal. In 2024, Veterans Memorial High School dedicated the Ramiro ``Ram'' Chavez Performing Arts Hall in recognition of his lifelong service. Through education and music, he inspired generations of South Texas students. Mr. Chavez also founded and led the Veterans Band of Corpus Christi, bringing veterans together through music to honor American service members and preserve the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Through this organization, he fostered camaraderie among veterans while strengthening the community's appreciation for their service. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Texas' 34th Congressional District, I am proud to honor Mr. Chavez for his extraordinary life of service, sacrifice, and dedication. His legacy will continue to inspire veterans, students, musicians, and all South Texans. ____________________