State Rep. Fallon honors local fallen soldier at 83rd Legislature

Recognition for a local soldier who died Christmas Eve continues as state Rep. Pat Fallon read a resolution last week on the House floor in Austin honoring Sgt. Enrique Mondragon.

Sgt. Enrique Mondragon, 23, died while serving as part of Operation Enduring Freedom in Baraki Barak, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained after his unit was attacked by small arms fire while on a dismounted patrol. He left behind a wife, Katie, and 3-year-old daughter, Beverly.

Fallon (R-Frisco) called Mondragon "a genuine American hero" during his speech on the House floor. Katie and Beverly Mondragon were on hand for the reading.

"Also known as a motivated man with big dreams Sgt. Mondragon loved serving in the military and hoped to later work in the U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement Agency or in a related field," the resolution stated. "Whereas our state and nation are fortunate to have men and women whose love for our country inspires them to take military service yet the tragic death of this young man is a sobering reminder of the cost of war. Sgt. Enrique Mondragon embodied the highest ideals of the U.S. Armed forces and those who knew and loved him will forever carry him close in their hearts."

The Colony City Council also honored Mondragon last month with an honor of its own, proclaiming Jan, 8, 2013 to be U.S. Army Sergeant Enrique Mondragon Day in the city.

"The nation-wide efforts to protect our country and make the world a better place are deeply appreciated and regarded with heartfelt gratitude," the proclamation stated. "The bravery, honor, courage, and commitment of our soldiers, sailors and other military personnel stand at an unparalleled level and we thank God for their unwavering dedication to this great country we call home."

"Sgt. Mondragon's bravery and dedication to the defense of our democracy and the sovereignty of freedom-loving nations around the world, recognizing it is an extraordinary person who willingly steps into harm's way to protect and defend freedom."

His funeral was held at Prestonwood Baptist Church where Maj. Gen. Dave Quantock noted Mondragon's commitment to both his country and family.

Hundreds of local residents and family members paid their respects to the fallen soldier including students from LISD, the school district Mondragon graduated from in 2007. Students lined the streets as the funeral procession passed holding American flags and saluting the vehicles.

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