Military Appreciation Day

As a Marine Corps Veteran who served in Iraq in 2003, it has always been my priority to use my position as an elected official to advocate for our veteran community. My brothers and sisters in uniform have made immeasurable sacrifices to defend our freedom and they deserve to be cared for and appreciated. It is a tradition in the Colorado Legislature to pause our regular business to host a Military Appreciation Day and this year is no different. A single day cannot possible show the depth of our gratitude for our Military, but it is important that we stop and recognize the history, the stories and the sacrifices made on our behalf. I don't often speak at the well, but this tradition is one that is near and dear to me. You can listen to my remarks below.

U.S.S Pueblo

Each year, I sponsor the resolution calling for the return of the U.S.S. Pueblo. For those who are not aware of the story behind this resolution, the U.S.S. Pueblo is a naval intelligence ship named after Pueblo, Colorado, the Home of Heroes. 53 years ago, the ship and its crew of over 80 people were attacked and captured. One crew member died in the attack, and the remaining crew were held captive for 11 months. The ship has never been returned to the United States and remains the only U.S. ship that is held by a foreign government. This resolution calls for the return of the U.S.S. Pueblo and reminds us of all that the crew endured during the attack. Read the full U.S.S Pueblo resolution here and click the links below to explore the other resolutions we passed.

SJR21-008: Recognition of African-American Veterans
SJR21-009: 76th Anniversary of End of World War II
SJR21-010: Honoring Gold Star Families
SJR21-011: Honoring Colorado Vietnam Veterans
SJR21-012: Military, Veterans, and MIA/POW Appreciation Day
SJR21-013: U.S.S. Pueblo
SJR21-015: Recognition of Latina and Latino Veterans

SB21-129: Caring for Veterans

Rates of veteran suicide have reached record numbers in Colorado. As a Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq and a lawmaker, I believe it is our responsibility to uphold our promise to veterans and care for them once they return from service. My bill, SB21-129: Veteran Suicide Prevention Pilot Program has passed through the Colorado Senate and makes its way to the house.

I interviewed with Channel 13 KRDO to talk more about why my bill to prevent veteran suicide is so important. Click the picture above or here to watch my interview.

On a personal note, I spent some quality time with my two sons on Easter. Every parent always says that it feels like yesterday that their kids were toddlers, but it's true! I see this picture of my boys almost as tall as me and can't believe how fast time has gone, but I couldn't be prouder of the young men they are becoming. I am incredibly proud to be your Senator and Senate President, but the title I am proudest of will always be "dad" to these two amazing boys.

Earlier this month, Governor Polis announced that all Coloradans are eligible to receive the vaccine. If you haven't yet been able to get an appointment, I encourage you to attend the vaccine clinic this Friday to receive one. Click here to register.

Legislative session is underway and I want to hear from you. If you have any issues, comments, questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office. You can contact us via phone at 303-866-4878 and by email at senleroygarcia@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

Leroy M. Garcia