DEPARTMENT: Government and Public Affairs, Office of Military Affairs
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Juan Ayala
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT:
Memorial Recognizing San Antonio Area Recipients of the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor
SUMMARY:
On April 20, 2016, Councilman Robert Trevino, Council District 1, and Councilman Mike Gallagher, Council District 10, requested discussion of a plan to fund and establish a memorial recognizing San Antonio area recipients of the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The Texas Legislative Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the State of Texas, and is awarded only to members of the state and federal military forces “on the standard of extraordinary merit.” The Texas Government Code related that the honor shall be conferred by the Texas Legislature upon a member who “voluntarily performs a deed of personal bravery or self-sacrifice involving risk of life that is so conspicuous as to clearly distinguish the service member for gallantry and intrepidity above the service member’s comrades.”
San Antonio has a rich history and deep connection with the Armed Forces, and several of the twelve recipients of the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor to date share part of that history.
RECOMMENDATION:
The Office of Military Affairs will coordinate with City departments and stakeholders to review options, identify cost estimates and develop a recommendation, which will consider other pending requests for veteran memorials. Staff recommends the Governance Committee assign the item to the Intergovernmental Relations Subcommittee for further review and possible action.