Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-02-20

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLONEL GIL CORONADO

Taxes

Context

On 2026-02-20, Representative Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLONEL GIL CORONADO" in the House. The speech addressed taxes.

Full Text

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLONEL GIL CORONADO

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E148] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLONEL GIL CORONADO ______ HON. JOAQUIN CASTRO of texas in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. CASTRO of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Gil Coronado, who passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Known as the ``Padrino'' of Hispanic Heritage Month, Colonel Coronado was a champion for our Nation's Hispanic communities. He is survived by his wife, Mary Helen, his four children Elaine, Todd, Troy and Troup, three granddaughters and three great-grandchildren. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas and raised in the Westside barrios of San Antonio, Colonel Coronado's early life was marked by adversity. However, Colonel Coronado was determined to overcome every obstacle he encountered. After dropping out of Lanier High School, Colonel Coronado decided to enlist in the United States Air Force at the age of 16. Colonel Coronado served our Nation with immeasurable bravery and honor as he rose through the ranks. He served in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War and completed tours of duty in Germany, Spain and Panama. For his service, he was awarded a Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit and many other commendations. In 1958, Colonel Coronado married his wife Mary Helen at Sacred Heart Church in San Antonio. Colonel Coronado and Mrs. Coronado shared a remarkable 67 years of marriage together. In 1985, Colonel Coronado was assigned to the Inter-American Defense Board. It was here that he began to work closely with Members of Congress to advocate for the expansion of efforts to honor and celebrate the Hispanic contributions to American history. In 1988, his efforts proved successful, when Congress passed legislation that turned National Hispanic Week into Hispanic Heritage Month. Now, every year, because of his tireless advocacy, the United States recognizes and dedicates an entire month to celebrate the rich culture and incredible contributions of the Hispanic community. In 1994, he was appointed by President Bill Clinton as the first Hispanic Director of the Selective Service System. He retired from the position in 2001 and returned to San Antonio where he continued to serve and lead the community. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the incredible life and legacy of Colonel Gil Coronado. He served our Nation with the utmost dignity and respect and was a champion for our Hispanic Heritage. He will be greatly missed. ____________________

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HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLONEL GIL CORONADO Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E148] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLONEL GIL CORONADO ______ HON. JOAQUIN CASTRO of texas in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. CASTRO of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Gil Coronado, who passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Known as the ``Padrino'' of Hispanic Heritage Month, Colonel Coronado was a champion for our Nation's Hispanic communities. He is survived by his wife, Mary Helen, his four children Elaine, Todd, Troy and Troup, three granddaughters and three great-grandchildren. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas and raised in the Westside barrios of San Antonio, Colonel Coronado's early life was marked by adversity. However, Colonel Coronado was determined to overcome every obstacle he encountered. After dropping out of Lanier High School, Colonel Coronado decided to enlist in the United States Air Force at the age of 16. Colonel Coronado served our Nation with immeasurable bravery and honor as he rose through the ranks. He served in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War and completed tours of duty in Germany, Spain and Panama. For his service, he was awarded a Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit and many other commendations. In 1958, Colonel Coronado married his wife Mary Helen at Sacred Heart Church in San Antonio. Colonel Coronado and Mrs. Coronado shared a remarkable 67 years of marriage together. In 1985, Colonel Coronado was assigned to the Inter-American Defense Board. It was here that he began to work closely with Members of Congress to advocate for the expansion of efforts to honor and celebrate the Hispanic contributions to American history. In 1988, his efforts proved successful, when Congress passed legislation that turned National Hispanic Week into Hispanic Heritage Month. Now, every year, because of his tireless advocacy, the United States recognizes and dedicates an entire month to celebrate the rich culture and incredible contributions of the Hispanic community. In 1994, he was appointed by President Bill Clinton as the first Hispanic Director of the Selective Service System. He retired from the position in 2001 and returned to San Antonio where he continued to serve and lead the community. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the incredible life and legacy of Colonel Gil Coronado. He served our Nation with the utmost dignity and respect and was a champion for our Hispanic Heritage. He will be greatly missed. ____________________