Last week, the U.S. Senate passed my bill, H.R. 4983 – To designate the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Gilbert, Arizona, as the “Staff Sergeant Alexander W. Conrad Veterans Affairs Health Care Clinic.” This legislation unanimously passed the U.S. House on September 23. It now awaits President Trump's signature.

On June, 8, 2018, Staff Sergeant Conrad, of Chandler, died in Somalia from injuries sustained from indirect enemy fire, while assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group, in support of Operation Octave Shield. His service includes two tours in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star with Valor, and Meritorious Service Medal. This legislation was endorsed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars – Department of Arizona, Vietnam Veterans of America – Arizona State Council, and Concerned Veterans for America – Arizona, Disabled American Veterans – Department of Arizona, Military Officers Association of America – Arizona Council of Chapters, and the American Legion – Department of Arizona, .

I’m grateful for the unanimous support for passage of this legislation from my colleagues in the House and Senate. Staff Sergeant Conrad was an American hero, who sacrificed his life for the cause of freedom. His life and courage deserve honor and recognition for years on end. I hope that everyone who visits the Southeast Valley Veterans Affairs clinic will take time to reflect on the service of Staff Sergeant Conrad – and the service of all who continue to wear our nation’s uniform.