This week, President Donald Trump signed 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 and the U.S. Senate on December 10.

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, 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 to President Donald Trump for signing this bill that honors one of the East Valley’s finest, Sgt. Alexander W. Conrad. I’m thankful for all of the members of Arizona’s congressional delegation and all the members of the House and Senate who supported this legislation. Sgt. Conrad was an American hero, who gave his life in defense of our great nation. I look forward to seeing the name change on the Southeast VA Clinic for Arizonans to always remember and honor Sgt. Conrad’s sacrifice.