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CONGRESSWOMAN SYLVIA GARCIA’S BILL TO NAME HOUSTON POST OFFICE IN HONOR OF BENNY C. MARTINEZ PASSES HOUSE

July 14, 2022

Media Contact: Brian J. Garcia | Brian.Garcia@mail.house.gov | (202) 227-0330

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia's (TX-29) bipartisan bill to rename the post office on Broadway Street after Texas legend Benny C. Martinez passed the House. Martinez was a prominent community leader who worked as a Harris County nurse for 30 years and 5 years as Deputy Sheriff, served the Houston area through countless organizations and advocacy groups, and was a U.S. Army veteran.

"Benny was a cherished figure across Texas and the Houston area who spent his life spreading positivity," said Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia. "He was extremely active within LULAC, and he even helped arrange a meeting between President John F. Kennedy and LULAC in 1963 – which was the first time a U.S. President gathered with the organization. Benny empowered a wave of Houston leaders through his advocacy, volunteerism, and mentorship. The naming of this post office will provide residents a special place to honor and remember Benny C. Martinez's legacy. His impact and legacy will surely be felt in our community for many decades."

"Naming a U.S. Post Office after my father, Benny Martinez is a true testament to his legacy," said Benny C. Martinez's daughter, Loretta Martinez Williams. "My father was a hard-working volunteer and served the community through many organizations. He often would be finishing up a volunteer project and would be thinking of the next one. He was also a veteran who proudly served his country. He had the honor to receive numerous awards for his volunteerism. His favorite organization was LULAC and his greatest honor was when he received LULAC Man of the Year for the Nation. He is quoted as saying a ‘volunteer is a hero, and a hero is a volunteer.' My father is a role model that young people can emulate. I thank Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, and her staff for their efforts, and all the support from the elected officials."

"Benny Martinez was and will always be remembered as a tireless champion for his community and dedicated to serving the underserved," said LULAC National President Domingo Garcia. He was committed to the power of education and called knowledge the most important tool for freedom and equality in America. He was a devoted civic leader who advocated for access to the vote as the greatest voice for Hispanics in Texas and across our country. Most importantly, his integrity, character, and passion for truth were lifelong, non-negotiable values that earned him respect from all who knew him. LULAC is richer and truer to its mission because of Benny Martinez."

The post office being named in honor of Benny C. Martinez is located at 4020 Broadway Street in Houston, Texas, 77087.

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Issues:Veteranos