Congressman Gonzalez Passes Legislation Honoring Local Fallen Hero, First Lieutenant Andres Zermeño

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass Congressman Vicente Gonzalez’s (TX-34) legislation, H.R. 6244, to rename the U.S. Post Office located at 1535 East Los Ebanos Boulevard, Brownsville, Texas, in honor of fallen soldier and Brownsville native, First Lieutenant Andres Zermeño.

First Lieutenant Andres Zermeño answered the call to serve in 2008 by commissioning into the United States Army where he served overseas during “Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)”. In 2011,  First Lieutenant Zermeño was tragically killed in action while on patrol in Shekhabad, Afghanistan, from injuries suffered from a rocket-propelled grenade. He is survived by his wife and two children.  

“It was my honor to introduce H.R. 6244 and pay tribute to Lieutenant Zermeño’s extraordinary legacy. He is the true definition of an American hero who bravely laid down his life to protect his family, his hometown, and his country,” said Congressman Gonzalez. “May this legislation serve as a lasting reminder to South Texans of his sacrifice and courage.” 

During his funeral mass at St. Mary’s University, Lieutenant Zermeño’s friends, family, and colleagues remembered him as a true leader, a caring friend, and a devoted family man. He was laid to rest at Fort Sam Houston. 

Congressman Gonzalez took to the House floor urging his colleagues to support passage of the bill, which can be viewed here. 

H.R. 6244 currently awaits Senate action. 

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