Recognizing Martha Narvaez and Vincent Leandry

Floor Speech

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Martha Narvaez and Vincent Leandry have made to our community through their volunteer service at the American Red Cross, Mid-Florida Chapter. Every now and then, we encounter volunteers who not only serve with dedication but inspire everyone around them. Martha and Vincent are such a team. Partners in life and in service, this dynamic Army Veteran duo continues to embody the very best of the American Red Cross. After a lifetime of service in the military, they chose to extend that calling with the American Red Cross for the last five years--and we are truly grateful. Every day, they give their time, energy, and hearts to advance the mission of the organization. Whether responding to house fires in the middle of the night, supporting major disaster operations, or assisting at Yellow Ribbon events for deploying service members, their commitment never wavers. They are always the first to raise their hands and often step in before the need is even spoken. Their compassion knows no bounds. Fluent in Spanish, they ensure no one is left out of critical recovery conversations--like when a displaced family in a shelter needed urgent help. A FaceTime call quickly turned into a 60-mile drive to provide in-person support, gifts for the children, and hours of comfort and reassurance. Their actions transformed a moment of isolation into one of connection and healing. In the wake of hurricanes and amid logistical challenges, they've served hundreds of meals, including stepping up at the last minute to support a community feeding event for an elected official. They showed up with no expectation of recognition--just a desire to help. Whether at Moon Lake Park or on a roadside in rural Florida, Martha and Vincent bring warmth and hope wherever they go. Their service touches every corner of the Red Cross: Disaster Action Team (DAT), Disaster Relief Operations (DRO), Service to the Armed Forces (SAF), and countless outreach events. You'll find them at Homeless Veteran Stand-Downs, the Mexican Consulate, VA hospitals, and more. They respond with empathy, uplift fellow volunteers and staff with kind words and hugs, and lead with quiet strength. Team SAF can always rely on them to take initiative, represent the Red Cross with professionalism, and bring their signature warmth to every event. They give so much of themselves and ask for nothing in return. Their dedication, humility, and boundless compassion serve as a beacon for what it truly means to be part of the Red Cross family. Martha and Vincent don't just serve--they show up, wholeheartedly and without hesitation.

It is clear Martha Narvaez and Vincent Leandry have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

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