On February 1, 2024, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) celebrated the successful passage of his bill in the House, which seeks to rename the Del Mar Post Office in Laredo, Texas, in honor of three fallen military heroes from the local community. The bill, H.R. 2754, will now move to the Senate for further consideration.
The post office renaming is intended to memorialize Lance Corporal David Lee Espinoza, Lance Corporal Juan Rodrigo Rodriguez, and Sergeant Roberto Arizola, Jr., who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country. Congressman Cuellar expressed gratitude to the Texas Congressional delegation for their support in cosponsoring the bill and working collaboratively to secure its passage.
In a statement, Dr. Cuellar emphasized the significance of honoring these South Texas heroes and ensuring that their legacy endures. Family members of the fallen soldiers also shared their appreciation for the congressman's efforts.
Elizabeth Holguin, mother of Lance Corporal David Lee Espinoza, expressed gratitude for Congressman Cuellar's support, stating that while nothing can bring her son back, the family is honored to have the post office bear David's name.
Ricardo Arizola, brother of Sergeant Roberto Arizola, Jr., thanked Congressman Cuellar for ensuring that his brother's name will be remembered as a hero.
Juana Maria Rodriguez, mother of Lance Corporal Juan Rodrigo Rodriguez, expressed her hope that the post office would embody her son's values of honor, service, and duty, thanking Congressman Cuellar for helping pay tribute to Juan's ultimate sacrifice.
The bill, introduced by Cuellar as H.R. 2754 earlier in the year, specifically designates the United States Postal Service facility at 2395 East Del Mar Boulevard in Laredo, Texas, as the Lance Corporal David Lee Espinoza, Lance Corporal Juan Rodrigo Rodriguez & Sergeant Roberto Arizola Jr. Post Office Building.
The individual military histories of Lance Corporal Espinoza, Lance Corporal Rodriguez, and Sergeant Arizola were outlined, underscoring their commitment to service and the tragic circumstances of their deaths.
