Houston Daily

Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz paid tribute to McAllen Police Officer Ismael Garcia and Dr. James C. Lee of Seguin on the House floor.

Officer Garcia was injured during an attack on the Border Patrol annex facility in McAllen. In her speech, De La Cruz highlighted his bravery: "I rise today to honor the brave service of McAllen Police Officer Ismael Garcia during the horrific attack on the McAllen Border Patrol facility last week."

She continued, "When an active shooter opened fire, Officer Garcia did not hesitate to jump into action. He willingly put himself in harm’s way, to protect his brothers and sisters in blue and green." De La Cruz praised his valor and sacrifice: "In the face of danger, he displayed valor, sacrifice, and selflessness."

De La Cruz visited him during recovery where he expressed pride in his actions: "When I visited him in recovery, he expressed pride in taking the bullet to protect others." She noted his previous service: "Officer Garcia served our nation for four years in the Marine Corps, earning the Combat Action Ribbon for his bravery."

Additionally, De La Cruz honored Dr. James C. Lee's contributions: "I rise today to recognize Dr. James C. Lee of Seguin for his lifetime of service and dedication to the well-being of his fellow Texans." Born in Houston, Dr. Lee moved to Seguin in the late 70s and contributed significantly over nearly three decades.

Dr. Lee was involved with Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation and other organizations: "He served as a founding member, treasurer, and finance chair... served on the medical center’s governing board as Chairman..." Outside medicine, he was active in community groups like Knights of Columbus.

Dr. Lee is survived by his wife Janice, their four daughters—Crystal, Cynthia, Catherine, Carol—and ten grandchildren.