Congressman Haridopolos Honors Three Distinguished Veterans on the House Floor
WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Mike Haridopolos took to the House Floor to honor three extraordinary veterans from Florida’s Space and Treasure Coasts, Army Sgt. 1st Class Melvin Morris, Master Sgt. Arcadio Santiago-Rodriguez, and Lieutenant Commander John Paul Surprenant for their remarkable bravery and service to our nation.
“These men represent the very best of American courage and dedication to duty,” said Congressman Haridopolos. “It was a privilege to recognize their heroic contributions, ensuring their legacy lives on.”
See the full speeches below:
Mr. Speaker,
I rise today to honor a resident of Cocoa, Florida, true American hero and decorated Green Beret, Army Sgt. 1st Class Melvin Morris. His extraordinary courage in Vietnam reflects the very best of our nation’s values.
In 1969, while leading his Special Forces team, then-Staff Sergeant Morris braved relentless enemy fire to recover a fallen comrade and safeguard classified information for our country.
Despite being shot multiple times, he fought through enemy positions, ensuring his mission’s success. For his valor, he received the Distinguished Service Cross.
But history had more to say. Decades later, a review of military records rightfully upgraded his honor.
In 2014, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, recognizing the courage and sacrifice that had been overlooked for too long.
Morris’s service did not end in combat, he continues to inspire future generations, reminding us that a nation must always recognize its heroes.
Today, I salute Sgt. 1st class Melvin Morris and his unwavering dedication to duty.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary American hero, Master Sergeant Arcadio Santiago-Rodriguez, a proud member of the Army’s 65th Infantry Regiment, the Borinqueneers.
During the Korean War, then-Private First Class Santiago-Rodriguez displayed extraordinary gallantry in the face of danger.
When his squad leader was gravely wounded, he swiftly took command, rallying his fellow soldiers and leading them to safety with unwavering courage and determination.
Later, while evacuating a wounded comrade, he single-handedly engaged five enemy soldiers, killing four and capturing the fifth, forcing him to help carry the wounded soldier to safety. For his heroism, he was awarded the Silver Star.
At 101 years old, Master Sgt. Santiago-Rodriguez continues to inspire us.
I join my predecessor, the Hon. Bill Posey in calling to honor him with the Congressional Gold Medal. The legacy of the Borinqueneers, and their unwavering service to our nation, must never be forgotten.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a true American hero Lieutenant Commander John Paul Surprenant, a retired officer in the United States Navy , as we celebrate his upcoming 100th Birthday and service to our country.
Paul joined the Navy as a Seaman Recruit in 1943. He rose through the ranks to Lieutenant Commander over a distinguished 30-year career.
He served on 13 Navy vessels, including the USS Tirante during World War II, where his crew was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation and his captain received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary bravery in enemy waters. He is the last surviving member of his crew.
Beyond his wartime service, Paul was part of the pioneering crew of the first atomic missile submarine, shaping the future of naval defense. But his greatest legacy is his family, his wife, Louise, a fellow Navy veteran, and their five children, two of whom also served in uniform.
Now retired in Melbourne, Florida, Paul remains a proud patriot whose century of life has been dedicated to service and family.
Today, we honor Lieutenant Commander Surprenant. Our nation salutes you!