RECOGNIZING JEREMY DAVID GENTRY WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION

On 2026-10-13, Representative Pete Sessions (R-TX-17) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING JEREMY DAVID GENTRY WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION" in the House.

RECOGNIZING JEREMY DAVID GENTRY WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 160 (Tuesday, October 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 160 (Tuesday, October 13, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1067] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING JEREMY DAVID GENTRY WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION ______ HON. PETE SESSIONS of texas in the house of representatives Tuesday, October 13, 2026 Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to present Jeremy David Gentry of Groveton, Texas, with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Jeremy Gentry is a proud United States Army Veteran and represents the very best of what it means to serve one's country and one's community. A native of Deep East Texas, Jeremy was born and raised in the community of Friday, Texas, where his family has deep roots. At just 18 years old, Jeremy answered the call to serve his country. He served in the United States Army from 1995 until 2004, including service during the Global War on Terror. His military service is distinguished by both dedication and achievement. Among his honors are multiple Army Commendation Medals, Army Achievement Medals, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Medal, and the Armed Forces Service Medal. Jeremy's commitment to service did not end when he returned home. After completing his military service, Jeremy earned his bachelor's degree, teaching certification, and began a career dedicated to educating young people in Groveton. For approximately 17 years, he has served Groveton ISD as an educator and today serves as the district librarian while continuing to teach college courses to Groveton High School students. Jeremy has also devoted 17 years to the school's University Interscholastic League program and has served as the High Schools Coordinator since 2023. Under his leadership, Groveton students have achieved an extraordinary four state championships, an impressive accomplishment for a small rural school district. In 2026, Jeremy was recognized with the UIL Sponsor Excellence Award. His dedication to his students extends far beyond the classroom. Jeremy routinely gives his own time to help students succeed, including working with them before and after school and using his lunch breaks to provide additional instruction and tutoring. He has worked to improve the school library and has found books, furniture, games, and other resources for students without placing an additional financial burden on the school district. When he saw that a ramp used by special education students needed repair, Jeremy took the initiative to secure funding and, together with his students, rebuilt the ramp. He also led efforts to improve the appearance of Groveton High School by creating a flower bed and helping make the school a more welcoming place. Alongside his daughter, Jeremy established an annual book drive so children could select books from the elementary library to take home and read at no cost. He also helped establish a community book stand at a local doctor's office, allowing people to borrow and return books on an honor system. His service to others has likewise been evident through his church and his community. For 16 years, Jeremy served as a youth ministry leader and worship leader at his local Baptist church. He remains involved in the church's music ministry today. Those who know Jeremy describe him not only as an accomplished veteran, educator, and community volunteer, but as a person of character, integrity, humility, and compassion. His superintendent, Jim Dillard, described Jeremy as someone who consistently goes above and beyond for his students and colleagues. After working with educators across five school districts and in numerous roles, Superintendent Dillard called Jeremy his ``most valuable player.'' That is a powerful testament to a life dedicated to serving others The Congressional Veteran Commendation is intended to recognize veterans whose service continues long after their military careers have ended. Jeremy is an outstanding example of that tradition. He answered the call of his country as a young man. When he returned home, he continued answering the call of his community--through education, mentorship, faith, volunteerism, and an unwavering commitment to the young people of Groveton and Trinity County. Jeremy has spent his life planting what one nominator described as ``little seeds of hope and positivity'' wherever he goes. Those seeds have grown into stronger students, a stronger school, and a stronger community. I am proud to recognize Jeremy Gentry for his military service to our Nation and, just as importantly, for the many years of service he has given to the people of Deep East Texas. On behalf of the people of Texas' 17th Congressional District, I thank Jeremy for his service, his sacrifice, and his continued commitment to others. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Jeremy Gentry on receiving the 2026 Congressional Veteran Commendation. May God bless Jeremy Gentry, his family, the great state of Texas, and the United States of America. ____________________