TITLE: Commemorating the 2013 American GI Forum scholarship reception in Corpus Christi.

SUMMARY: Commemorating the 2013 American GI Forum scholarship reception in Corpus Christi.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Two Corpus Christi-area chapters of the American GI Forum hosted a scholarship reception on January 17, 2013, the anniversary of the birth of the organization's founder, Dr. Hector P. Garcia; and WHEREAS, Dr. Garcia, a World War II veteran and civil rights activist, established the American GI Forum in 1948 in Corpus Christi to secure equal benefits for Mexican American veterans; the organization has since broadened its mission to address other veteran concerns and to promote greater educational opportunities; and WHEREAS, First held in 1996, the annual Corpus Christi scholarship reception was initiated by Dr. Garcia's brother, Dr. Xico P. Garcia, who was also remembered at this year's event; the banquet was sponsored by two area chapters of the American GI Forum, the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Founding Chapter and the Robstown Beatrice T. Perez Women's Chapter; and WHEREAS, Awarded $1,000 scholarships were deserving veterans Jose Ayala, Amando Vidal, Jr., and James Green; in addition, Martin Middle School in Corpus Christi received a grant, and the sponsor of the event, the H-E-B grocery chain, was also recognized; and WHEREAS, For 65 years, members of the American GI Forum have remained committed to championing education and equal rights, and it is a pleasure to recognize all those who showed their support of the organization's important work by attending the Corpus Christi event; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the 2013 American GI Forum scholarship reception in Corpus Christi and commend the members of the Dr. Hector P. Garcia and Beatrice T. Perez Robstown Women's Chapters as well as this year's honorees for their achievements. Herrero Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 859 was adopted by the House on March 27, 2013, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House