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Rep. Francisco Canseco

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marine Corporal Jose ``Daniel'' Gasca of El Paso, TX. Corporal Gasca was driving an up- armored HUMVEE when it was hit by a control detonated IED in Fallujah, Iraq in September 2008. Corporal Gasca suffered spinal fractures, broken ribs, a ruptured spleen, and leg injuries so severe that both of his legs required amputation. Corporal Gasca, his wife, Angel, and their sons; 3 year old Mathew and newborn Eli, currently live in a non- handicapped home while Daniel continues his treatments and therapies at Walter Reed.

On November 10, 2011, Homes for Our Troops will provide Corporal Gasca with a brand new home at no cost. Coporal Gasca's new home will be specially adapted to accommodate his needs, allowing him to be more productive and independent. The work of Homes for Our Troops and the community of El Paso, Texas, is a great example of the appreciation we should show our brave men and women who have served our nation in uniform.

I extend my personal thanks and sincere appreciation to Corporal Gasca for his sacrifice made while protecting our freedom. We owe our veterans a huge amount of gratitude--particularly those who have been injured while serving their nation. As President Calvin Coolidge said, ``The nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten.''