TITLE: Paying tribute to Gary George Wetzel on the occasion of the 2019 Medal of Honor Host City Weekend in Gainesville.

SUMMARY: Paying tribute to Gary George Wetzel on the occasion of the 2019 Medal of Honor Host City Weekend in Gainesville.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The valiant military service of Gary George Wetzel is being saluted as part of the 2019 Medal of Honor Host City Weekend in Gainesville; and WHEREAS, Established in 2001, Gainesville's Medal of Honor Host City Program acknowledges the heroism and sacrifice of individuals who have earned the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military award for valor; each year, local citizens join together to fund travel costs and other expenses to bring medal recipients to the city for a special series of events; and WHEREAS, U.S. Army Specialist Fourth Class Gary George Wetzel received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Vietnam War; on January 8, 1968, his unit, the 173rd Assault Helicopter Company, 11th Combat Aviation Battalion, became trapped in a landing zone; his helicopter was disabled by a rocket-propelled grenade, and two crewmembers were killed by enemy fire; this gallant soldier left his post as a door gunner to provide aid to his aircraft commander when another explosion shredded his arm and hurled him into a rice paddy; despite his horrific injuries, he staggered back to his machine gun and opened fire on the enemy, eliminating an automatic weapons emplacement that had been inflicting heavy casualties on the American forces; he then helped drag his wounded comrades to safety, even though he repeatedly lost consciousness due to a loss of blood; and WHEREAS, Demonstrating extraordinary courage in the line of duty, Gary Wetzel fulfilled the highest ideals of the United States armed forces, and he has earned the lasting admiration of a grateful nation; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the 86th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby pay tribute to Gary George Wetzel on the occasion of the 2019 Medal of Honor Host City Weekend in Gainesville and commend him for his exemplary service in the defense of our nation; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Wetzel as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives and Senate.