Mike Bost
Representative for Illinois · Republican · United States
“(B) Elements.--The Secretary, in coordination with participating critical access hospitals, shall ensure that any contract, agreement, or other arrangement entered into under subparagraph (A) establishes criteria, as the Secretary considers appropriate, to ensure-- (i) the provision of timely, safe, and high-quality health care services t…”
“(B) Elements.--The Secretary, in coordination with participating critical access hospitals, shall ensure that any contract, agreement, or other arrangement entered into under subparagraph (A) establishes criteria, as the Secretary considers appropriate, to ensure-- (i) the provision of timely, safe, and high-quality health care services t…”
“(a) In General.--Paragraph (2) of section 2306(h) of title 38, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: ``(2) If the Secretary furnishes an urn or commemorative plaque for an individual under paragraph (1), the Secretary may not provide for such individual a headstone or marker under this section, or any interment benefit under…”
“(a) In General.--Paragraph (2) of section 2306(h) of title 38, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: ``(2) If the Secretary furnishes an urn or commemorative plaque for an individual under paragraph (1), the Secretary may not provide for such individual a headstone or marker under this section, or any interment benefit under…”
“(d) Update of Information on Providers.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary, through the Office of Integrated Veteran Care or successor office, shall develop a process to ensure that third party administrators regularly, not less frequently than quarterly-- (1) update their lists of communit…”
“(d) Update of Information on Providers.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary, through the Office of Integrated Veteran Care or successor office, shall develop a process to ensure that third party administrators regularly, not less frequently than quarterly-- (1) update their lists of communit…”
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“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6007) to name the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Newton, New Jersey, as the ``Anthony `Tony' J. Gallopo VA Clinic''. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows: H.R. 6007 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, SECTION 1. NAME OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMUNITY- BASED OUTPATIENT CLINIC, NEWTON, NEW JERSEY. The Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Newton, New Jersey, shall after the date of the enactment of this Act be known and designated as the ``Anthony `Tony' J. Gallopo VA Clinic''.”
“The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table. ____________________”
“Speaker, yes, we must always be reminded that we must always progress as a nation. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to support this legislation renaming the San Jose VA Clinic the Corporal Patrick D. Tillman VA Clinic. Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, and I am ready to close. I reserve the balance of my time. [[Page H4480]] Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, and I am prepared to close. I urge all of my colleagues to support H.R. 4288 to honor this very deserving veteran, and I yield back the balance of my time. Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, once again, I encourage all Members to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Bost) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4288.”
“That is why the legacy of Pat Tillman should also be about progress, what we can do better as an Army, as a military, as a Congress, and as a country to ensure that this never happens again. Mr. Speaker, Pat was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart and was posthumously promoted to corporal, but something tells me, Mr. Speaker, he wouldn't want it. Similar to this legislation, something tells me that Pat Tillman wouldn't want this recognition. Well, Pat Tillman may not want this, but as a community and as a country, we want it, and, yes, we need it. In this day of division and dysfunction, we must always, always be reminded of the sacrifice of the service and the ultimate sacrifice of someone like Pat Tillman. We must always be reminded of his patriotism, of his passion. Mr.”
“Pat and two other members of that convoy immediately exited their Humvees, got up to a ridge where they could see the first convoy, and then started firing at the enemies up on the hill. The first convoy, unfortunately, did not know that up on that ridge it was Pat Tillman. Pat's last words were: Cease fire. I am Pat f'ing Tillman. Now, at first, Mr. Speaker, the Army put out a standard statement saying that Pat Tillman was killed by enemy fire, but after four military investigations and numerous independent investigations, including one by his own mother, Dannie, the truth came out that Pat was killed by friendly fire. It was not just Pat's death that hurt. It was the sense of deception that made this story difficult.”
“Speaker, it was on April 22 of that year that Pat was in Khost province in the southeast Afghanistan border region, and on that day he was part of two convoys on patrol in a narrow valley. As they were going down this valley, they came to a fork in the road where the first convoy was supposed to turn left and the second convoy was supposed to turn right. That was Pat's convoy. When Pat got to that fork in the road, they realized that it was impassable, and so they followed behind the first convoy to the left unbeknownst to the first convoy. A while later, the enemies started to ambush the first convoy. Pat's convoy behind a hill heard it, knew what they had to do, and responded.”
“He said: ``You should be passionate about everything you do; if not, why do it?'' That was his attitude about life, a passion that is demonstrated by that iconic photo of Pat on the football field that became the foundation for the statue of Pat outside Arizona State Sun Devil Stadium at the entrance of Tillman Tunnel that depicts Pat running, yelling, and hair flying. That was the passion that drove his success on the football field. That passion drove his determination to do something after our Nation was attacked on 9/11. That passion led him to be all that he could be as an Army Ranger alongside his brother, Kevin, where they were subsequently assigned to the 2nd battalion of the 75th Ranger Regiment. Now, as an Army Ranger, Pat deployed in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003 and then to Operation Enduring Freedom in 2004. Mr.”
“He grew up knowing that his great-grandfather served at Pearl Harbor during the attack in 1941. He grew up realizing that in our democracy, we have an obligation to give back to our country that gives a guy like Pat Tillman the opportunity to play professional football. He felt that he could fulfill that responsibility by joining the U.S. Army and becoming a U.S. Ranger. Mr. Speaker, I admit that I did not know Pat Tillman, but when we know about Pat Tillman, all of us--all of us--feel his passion. {time} 1200 He did nothing half baked. He did everything with a full heart: academics, athletics, and of course, the service to our Nation.”
“After 9/11, he gave up a $3.6 million contract playing professional football to enlist in the U.S. Army. Mr. Speaker, Pat had a storied football career, be it as a beast on the gridiron for the Chargers of Leland High School in Almaden Valley, San Jose; at Arizona State University as an Academic All-American who graduated summa cum laude in 3\1/2\ years; as an All-American who helped the Sun Devils to an undefeated season and a Rose Bowl berth in 1997; and then, of course, as a professional football player in the NFL for the Arizona Cardinals, where he set a franchise record for tackles in the year 2000. Mr. Speaker, despite all of that, he felt he hadn't done a dang thing for this great country. Pat grew up in a family of service who had gone and fought wars.”
“Speaker, I urge all Members to support this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 6 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Panetta), my good friend and author of this legislation, who serves on the House Budget Committee and the Ways and Means Committee. Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bipartisan legislation to rename the San Jose veterans affairs clinic for U.S. Army Corporal Patrick D. Tillman. Mr. Speaker, this is more than about just a naming of a VA clinic. This is about patriotism. It is about passion, and it is about progression as a nation. Now, there is no doubt, as you have heard, Mr. Speaker, that Pat was a patriot.”
“As an Army Ranger, Pat Tillman deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003 and Operation Enduring Freedom in 2004. On April 22, 2004, Pat Tillman was tragically killed by friendly fire while on patrol in the rugged area of eastern Afghanistan. Pat Tillman was undeniably known as a national hero, and his service reflects that. He was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart medals, and he was posthumously promoted to corporal. Following his death, his widow, Marie, and his family and friends established the Pat Tillman Foundation, which awards academic scholarships to military servicemembers, veterans, and their spouses. I can think of no better way to honor Mr. Tillman's legacy and demonstrate our Nation's continued gratitude for his service than to name this VA clinic in his honor. Mr.”
“Tillman was offered a scholarship to play football for Arizona State University. While there, he led Arizona State to the 1997 Rose Bowl after an undefeated season. He earned three consecutive selections to the Pac-10 All-Academic Football Team, a first team Academic All- American honor, and received the NCAA post-graduate scholarship for academic and athletic excellence. After graduating ASU summa cum laude in 1998 with a bachelor of science, he was drafted to play for the Arizona Cardinals, where he played until July 2002. Less than 1 year after 9/11, Tillman felt a call to serve his country and enlisted in the U.S. Army. Mr. Tillman, with his brother Kevin, who joined the Army at the same time, were both assigned to the 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis, Washington.”
“Speaker, is something that those of us who are big football fans and a big Pat Tillman fan understand. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4288, and I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I am really moved by the chairman's comments about Mr. Tillman. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4288 to name the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in San Jose, California, after Corporal Patrick ``Pat'' Daniel Tillman. I thank my colleague, Representative Panetta, for honoring the legacy of this American hero. Pat Tillman was born in San Jose, California, in 1976. From 1990 to 1994, Pat attended Leland High School in San Jose, California, where he helped lead his team to a Central Coast Division I football championship. Mr.”
“Pat died in action while providing cover for his fellow soldiers. Because of his courage, his fellow soldiers were able to escape danger. For his bravery and sacrifice, Pat was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and the Silver Star. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4288 is a fitting tribute to Pat Tillman, a son of San Jose, a professional athlete, an Army Ranger, and an American hero who gave up fame and fortune to serve the country he loved. By naming the VA clinic after him, we would ensure that his story of courage, service, and sacrifice will continue for decades. Those of us who can remember Pat Tillman and remember what an amazing thing he did, to leave a career as a professional football player to serve this Nation and the flag [[Page H4479]] that hangs behind you, Mr.”
“He put the needs of his country above his own dreams, above his own career, and above the life of comfort and success that he already earned. Mr. Speaker, that is the definition of an American hero. When terrorists struck the Twin Towers, Pat, like so many other Americans, ran toward the fight. Pat once said: ``A lot of my family has . . . gone and fought in wars. And I really haven't done a damned thing as far as laying myself on the line like that, and so I have a great deal of respect for those that have and what the flag stands for.'' Those were not empty words. In 2002, Pat enlisted in the United States Army. He served with the 75th Ranger Regiment. During his second deployment--I will say that again--his second deployment, while serving in Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Pat's unit came under attack.”
“Pat Tillman was born and raised in San Jose, California. He first made his name on the football field at Leland High School, helping lead his team to a Central Coast Division I championship. He carried that same drive and determination to Arizona State University, where he excelled both as a student and as an athlete. Mr. Speaker, after being drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 1998, by 2000, Pat had become the team's star safety. He had achieved what so many young athletes dreamed of. He was playing in the NFL. He had a successful career ahead of him and could have made millions of dollars by continuing to play professional football. Yet, after the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001, Pat Tillman made a different choice. When his country needed him, Pat answered the call.”
“The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Bost) and the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Conaway) each will control 20 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Illinois. General Leave Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks on H.R. 4288. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Illinois? There was no objection. Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4288, to name the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in San Jose, California, as the ``Corporal Patrick D. Tillman VA Clinic,'' sponsored by Representative Panetta.”
“(8) Pat Tillman is undeniably known as a national hero, was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart medals, and was posthumously promoted to corporal. SEC. 2. NAME OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMUNITY- BASED OUTPATIENT CLINIC, SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA. The community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs in San Jose, California, shall after the date of the enactment of this Act be known and designated as the ``Corporal Patrick D. Tillman Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic'' or the ``Pat Tillman VA Clinic''. Any reference in any law, regulation, map, document, paper, or other record of the United States to such community-based outpatient clinic shall be considered to be a reference to the ``Corporal Patrick D. Tillman Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic'' or the ``Pat Tillman VA Clinic''.”
“(4) In July of 2002, less than 1 year after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Pat chose to suspend a lucrative career in the NFL to join the U.S. Army alongside his brother, Kevin. (5) Pat and Kevin were subsequently assigned to the second battalion of the 75th Ranger Regiment in Fort Lewis, Washington. As an Army Ranger, Pat deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003 and Operation Enduring Freedom in 2004. (6) On April 22, 2004, Pat Tillman was killed by gunfire while on patrol in a rugged area of eastern Afghanistan. (7) Further investigation and subsequent reporting confirmed Tillman was killed via fratricide as he attempted to provide cover for fellow soldiers as they endeavored to escape from a canyon wherein they were trapped.”
“Congress finds the following: (1) Patrick ``Pat'' Daniel Tillman was born on November 6, 1976, in San Jose, California. (2) From 1990 to 1994, Pat attended Leland High School in San Jose, California, where he subsequently helped lead his team to a Central Coast Division I Football Championship. Shortly thereafter, Pat was offered a scholarship to and played football for the Arizona State University Sun Devils. While there, he led Arizona State to the 1997 Rose Bowl after an undefeated season, earned three consecutive selections to the Pac-10 All-Academic Football Team, a 1st team Academic All-American honor, as well as the NCAA's Post-Graduate Scholarship for academic and athletic excellence. (3) Upon graduating college, Pat Tillman was selected in the 7th round of the 1998 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4478-H4480] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] {time} 1150 CORPORAL PATRICK D. TILLMAN VA CLINIC Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 4288) to name the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in San Jose, California, as the ``Corporal Patrick D. Tillman VA Clinic''. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows: H.R. 4288 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, SECTION 1. FINDINGS.”
“The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Bost) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4647. The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table. ____________________”
“Naming the West Haven VA Medical Center in his honor is a deserving tribute to a hero who fought for this country. He earned this highest military distinction and then continued to fight for veterans throughout his life. His legacy, a legacy of courage and compassion, will live on through the care provided to each and every veteran who walks through its doors. Mr. Speaker, I am so proud to propose this legislation. I urge my colleagues to support it. I hope that we can move it quickly, with the Senate, and bring it to the President for signature. Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I support H.R. 4647 to honor this very deserving veteran. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, once again, I encourage all Members to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore.”
“The captain's dedication to serving others continued after his time in uniform. He served as president of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society from 1995 to 1999. He advised President Obama on foreign policy during his 2008 Presidential campaign. He served on the board of directors of Homes For Our Troops, a veteran service organization that builds and donates specially adapted custom homes for severely injured 9/11 veterans. He also served as chairman of the Advisory Committee on Veterans' Employment, Training and Employer Outreach Services at the United States Department of Labor. Even after his death, Captain Bucha's selflessness lives on. His brain was donated to the Center for Human Brain Discovery at Yale University for research.”
“The bill would rename the West Haven Veterans Affairs Medical Center in West Haven, Connecticut, where Captain Bucha received care for PTSD after his service and neurological care for Alzheimer's disease before he passed away on July 31, 2024. Captain Bucha received the Medal of Honor in 1970 for his heroic service while on Active Duty during the Vietnam war. He distinguished himself with extraordinary heroism while leading 89 men on a reconnaissance mission in Vietnam under heavy enemy fire [[Page H4478]] from about 1,500 soldiers. He fearlessly directed our defenses, personally destroyed a machine-gun bunker, and sustained a shrapnel wound. Using flashlights in complete view of enemy snipers, Captain Bucha also directed the medical evacuation of three air ambulance loads of seriously wounded personnel.”
“I can think of no better way to express gratitude for Captain Bucha's lifelong commitment to service of his community and his country than to name this VA medical center in his honor. I urge all Members to support this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman from Connecticut (Ms. DeLauro), the ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee and the author of this legislation. Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am honored and grateful for this opportunity to put forward this legislation. It is legislation that honors a man who embodied the highest ideals of service to his country, his fellow soldiers, and his community, Captain Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha, a longtime resident of Ridgefield, Connecticut, and a Medal of Honor recipient.”
“I understand that our colleagues in the Senate passed the companion to this bill in their Chamber last August and have been waiting for the House to take it up for almost a year. I am disappointed that we are not considering the already-passed Senate bill today. This House should have passed that Senate bill long ago. A well-deserving veteran such as Captain Bucha should have been honored as swiftly as possible. I am concerned that by not taking up the Senate version of this bill today, it will only further delay this bill from getting to the President's desk for signature. Captain Bucha's friends and loved ones should not have to wait so long to see his legacy honored. Nevertheless, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I hope that it will become law without delay.”
“For these heroic efforts, Captain Bucha was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1970. He considered turning it down, feeling undeserving. Ultimately, he accepted, saying that the medal belongs to his men. After his service, Captain Bucha taught at West Point to help shape the next generation of servicemembers. He also worked with several veterans organizations to advocate for mental health support, job training, and housing for veterans. Captain Bucha's connection to the West Haven VA Medical Center is deeply personal. He battled post-traumatic stress disorder for 42 years before courageously seeking help at West Haven, where he received compassionate and skilled care in the final years of his life. He passed away at the medical center in 2024 from complications of Alzheimer's disease.”
“As commander of Company D, Third Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, he oversaw a motley crew that he lovingly referred to as ``clerks and jerks.'' They went on to become one of the most decorated units by war's end. As part of the Tet Offensive, in March 1968, Captain Bucha and his men were dropped by helicopter to repel attacks by the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong. They found themselves outnumbered by 1,500 enemy troops, and Captain Bucha crawled 40 yards through a hail of gunfire and singlehandedly destroyed a machine-gun bunker with grenades. He then spearheaded an overnight offensive, spreading his men out to throw grenades to convince the enemy that they were the ones who were outnumbered. He was also instrumental in enabling the medical evacuation of three air ambulance loads of his personnel.”
“4647 to name the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in West Haven, Connecticut, the ``Captain Paul W. `Bud' Bucha VA Medical Center.'' I thank my colleagues from Connecticut Senator Blumenthal and Representative DeLauro for their leadership to honor Captain Bucha's legacy. Captain Bucha's dedication to his country exemplifies service. As a young man, he turned down multiple athletic and academic scholarships, choosing, instead, to enroll in the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he was a two-time All-American and captain of the swim team. He graduated in the top 5 percent of his class and number two in the Order of Military Merit. In 1967, Captain Bucha deployed to Vietnam as part of Operation Eagle Thrust.”
“The West Haven VA Medical Center became an important part of that journey. It was there that Captain Bucha received treatment, continued his advocacy, and ultimately spent his final days. Naming this facility in his honor would ensure that future generations of veterans remember Captain Bucha and his service, not only for his actions in combat, but for what he continued to do for his fellow veterans long after his time in uniform was over. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4647 honors a Medal of Honor recipient, a tireless advocate, and a man whose life was defined by service to others. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4647, and I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R.”
“Under intense fire, he destroyed an enemy bunker, directed the withdrawal of his men, coordinated artillery and air support, evacuated wounded soldiers, and led the recovery of casualties. {time} 1140 For this, he was awarded the Medal of Honor. His actions saved countless lives and are a tribute to the highest ideals of military service. Captain Bucha's service did not end when he came home. For decades, he dedicated himself to serving veterans, focusing on those struggling with the invisible wounds of war. After experiencing post-traumatic stress himself, he became one of the Nation's strongest advocates for getting veterans out of the rut and back to living. He challenged the stigma surrounding mental health care and encouraged countless fellow veterans to seek help.”
“There was no objection. Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4647, the Captain Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha VA Medical Center Act of 2025, sponsored by Representative DeLauro. This bill would designate the West Haven VA Medical Center in Connecticut as the Captain Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha VA Medical Center. Captain Paul ``Bud'' Bucha was an American hero whose life exemplified courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to his fellow veterans, both on the battlefield and at home. After graduating from West Point, Captain Bucha was sent to Vietnam where he commanded his company during an intense recon mission. In March 1968, Captain Bucha displayed extraordinary courage while leading his company against a larger enemy force.”
“`Bud' Bucha Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center'' or the ``Captain Paul W. `Bud' Bucha VA Medical Center''. (b) Reference.--Any reference in any law, regulation, map, document, paper, or other record of the United States to the medical center referred to in subsection (a) shall be considered to be a reference to the Captain Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha VA Medical Center. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Bost) and the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Conaway) each will control 20 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Illinois. General Leave Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Illinois?”
“His family also commended the dedicated [[Page H4477]] neurologists, psychiatrists, and oncologists who supported him as his health declined. (15) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha spent the last two weeks of his life at the medical center of the Department in West Haven, Connecticut, and passed away from complications of Alzheimer's disease on July 31, 2024. In his final act of courage and service, he donated his brain to the Center for Human Brain Discovery at Yale University. SEC. 3. DESIGNATION OF CAPTAIN PAUL W. ``BUD'' BUCHA VA MEDICAL CENTER. (a) In General.--The medical center of the Department of Veterans Affairs in West Haven, Connecticut, or any successor location for such medical center, shall after the date of the enactment of this Act be known and designated as the ``Captain Paul W.”
“He used the term ``post-traumatic stress'' to acknowledge the impact of combat experiences on the mental health of veterans and he intentionally left out the word ``disorder'' to help destigmatize their struggle. (14) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha battled post-traumatic stress on his own for 42 years before courageously seeking help at the medical center of the Department of Veterans Affairs in West Haven, Connecticut. In the final years of his life, Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha also received neurological care at that medical center. His family expressed deep gratitude for the compassionate and skilled care he received, especially recognizing the leadership of Dr. Huned Patwa, Chief of Staff, and Dr. Becky Rhoads, Executive Director.”
“``Bud'' Bucha was an active member of several veterans service organizations (commonly referred to as ``VSOs''), including the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and the Vietnam Veterans of America. He generously served on the board of directors of Homes for Our Troops, a VSO that builds specially adapted custom homes for severely injured veterans. He also served as Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Veterans Employment and Training Services at the Department of Labor. (13) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha used his voice for veterans struggling with mental health. He believed that all veterans, whether they have ``4 stars or no stripes, man or woman'', would be touched by post-traumatic stress.”
“His leadership led to the defeat of a superior Vietnamese stronghold, leaving 156 enemy dead. Come morning, he guided the medical evacuation of three air-ambulance loads of seriously wounded personnel. (9) President Richard Nixon presented the Medal of Honor to Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha in a ceremony at the White House in 1970. (10) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha originally wanted to turn down the Medal of Honor because he did not feel deserving. In Vietnam, he asked his men to trust him and, in turn, promised to bring them home safe. 10 of his men were killed on the night of March 18, 1968. Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha ultimately accepted the Medal of Honor in their memory, saying it belongs to his men. (11) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha resigned his Army commission in 1972. (12) Paul W.”
“(8) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha distinguished himself with extraordinary heroism while leading 89 men on a reconnaissance mission near Phuoc Vinh, Vietnam, from March 16th through 18th, 1968. As part of the Tet Offensive, his unit was dropped by helicopter and his men set out to repel attacks by North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces. As the sun set on March 18, 1968, he and his men advanced into a dense jungle and found themselves outgunned by approximately 1,500 enemy troops. Under attack, he crawled 40 yards through the hail of fire and singlehandedly destroyed a machine-gun bunker with grenades, all while sustaining a shrapnel wound. He then orchestrated an overnight offensive, directing his men to spread out, throw grenades, and unleash heavy fire. He made the enemy believe they were a much larger force.”
“``Bud'' Bucha earned a Masters of Business Administration from Stanford University in 1967, all while completing Airborne and Ranger training between academic years. (6) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha reported for duty with the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to prepare for deployment to Vietnam as part of Operation Eagle Thrust in November 1967. (7) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha was appointed commander of Company D, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment. His company was the last rifle company to be formed during an Army expansion. He jokingly recalled that his recruits were men who had flunked basic infantry tasks, former prisoners, and ``guys with master's degrees in Elizabethan literature''. He took pride in his company, dubbed the ``clerks and jerks''. They went on to become one of the most decorated units by the end of the war.”
“`Bud' Bucha VA Medical Center Act of 2025''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress finds the following: (1) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha was born on August 1, 1943, in Washington, DC. (2) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha, a recipient of the Medal of Honor and an advocate for veterans, is an American hero. (3) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha, the son of a colonel in the Army, spent his childhood in California, Germany, Indiana, Japan, and St. Louis, Missouri. (4) Paul W. ``Bud'' Bucha turned down several scholarships for both academics and athletics and instead enrolled in the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. He went on to be a two-time All-American and captain of the West Point swim team. In 1965, he graduated in the top 5 percent of his class and number two in Military Order of Merit. (5) Paul W.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4476-H4478] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CAPTAIN PAUL W. ``BUD'' BUCHA VA MEDICAL CENTER Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 4647) to designate the medical center of the Department of Veterans Affairs in West Haven, Connecticut, as the ``Captain Paul W. `Bud' Bucha VA Medical Center''. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows: H.R. 4647 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Captain Paul W.”
“6963 will be to honor an American who did so much for our Nation, our veterans, and the people of Lafayette, Louisiana. Not only will this serve as a tribute to our beautiful Nation but would show this body's resolve to remember and honor all veterans who answered the call to serve our Nation and our communities. Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I encourage all of my colleagues to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Fine). The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Bost) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6963. The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table. ____________________”
“Hamilton was a cofounder of the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Action Coalition, serving as a longtime veterans advocate. This marine, Mr. Hamilton, played an integral role in establishing the Louisiana community-based outpatient clinic, which opened in 2016, and the road leading to the clinic was named in his honor in 2017. I am joined in support by Speaker Mike Johnson, Leader Steve Scalise, Representatives Letlow, Carter, and Fields, and Senators Kennedy and Cassidy in support of this legislation honoring Mr. Hamilton. Louisiana's American Legion, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Disabled American Veterans, and Louisianans across the State have offered their strong support to rename this clinic in honor of Mr. Hamilton. Passing H.R.”
“6963, which would designate the community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Lafayette, Louisiana, as the Rodney C. Hamilton Sr. VA Clinic. This legislative effort, Mr. Speaker, to honor Mr. Hamilton has been in the making for many years. I am proud and humbled to bring it to the floor on behalf of the Louisiana delegation today. Rodney C. Hamilton, Sr., joined the United States Marine Corps at 17 years old and served in the Korean war. He was wounded, served honorably, and received the Purple Heart. After serving his Nation in combat, he returned home to Lafayette where he continued to serve those around him, becoming a community leader in Lafayette's city government. He was ordained as a deacon, serving as a member of the First Baptist Church of Youngsville, Louisiana, a community near Lafayette. Mr.”
“With the hecticness around here today, we are hoping that he does make it to make comments on this bill, but we need to move on with our business. Mr. Speaker, I have no more Members wishing to speak, and I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I support H.R. 6963 to honor this very deserving veteran, and I yield back the balance of my time. Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Higgins), the sponsor of the legislation. Mr. HIGGINS of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for allowing me to speak on behalf of an American patriot who was a man amongst men, Mr. Speaker, Rodney C. Hamilton. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support H.R.”
“He was active in his church and several local organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce and the Beaver Club. From 1968 until 1972, he also served in local government as a trustee for public property. Rodney Hamilton passed away in 2020 and was buried with full military honors. His legacy is one of advocacy, leadership, compassion, and sacrifice. It is only fitting that we honor his contributions by designating the Lafayette VA clinic in his honor. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to support H.R. 6963, and I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, today, we are actually naming many clinics. This one in Lafayette, the sponsor, Representative Higgins, feels that this is vitally important.”
“Sergeant Hamilton became a leading advocate for his fellow Marines and veterans in the following years. He founded the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Action Coalition, and he was an active member of the Marine Corps League, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and The American Legion. Sergeant Hamilton's advocacy and leadership were instrumental in establishing the VA community-based outpatient clinic in Lafayette, which opened in 2016 and expanded access to medical care for veterans throughout the region. The road that leads to the facility already bears his name in honor of the tireless work that he put into bringing this clinic into fruition. Sergeant Hamilton's long record of giving back extended even further through his tireless dedication to his community.”
“In 1948, his family moved to Lafayette, Louisiana, where he resided for over 70 years until his passing. At just 17 years old, Hamilton joined the Marine Reserve as a member of the Marine Reserve Rifle Corps. He received orders to serve in the Seventh Marine Regiment during the Korean war. While stationed on the front lines in September 1951, he was wounded by mortar shells and received the Purple Heart for his service. He was reassigned to the First Marine Division's service battalion and was honorably discharged in 1952 with the rank of sergeant. Back home in Lafayette, Hamilton married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Barbara Webb. The couple have 5 children and 12 grandchildren and were together for nearly seven decades.”
“Naming this facility in his honor would recognize a marine, a Purple Heart recipient, and a community leader whose work continues to serve veterans today. {time} 1130 H.R. 6963 is a fitting tribute to Rodney Hamilton, Sr., a man who served his country in war, returned home to serve his community, and never stopped standing up for his fellow veterans. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support H.R. 6963, and I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6963 to designate the community-based outpatient clinic in Lafayette, Louisiana, as the Rodney C. Hamilton Sr. VA Clinic. Rodney Hamilton was born in Fort Worth, Texas, on March 24, 1932.”