I am pleased to let you know that I am supporting, the efforts of Representative Hilda Solis to designate the United States Post Office in El Monte as the Marisol Heredia Post Office Building.  Representative Solis has introduced legislation to honor Specialist Heredia, who was born and raised in El Monte and who died last year in service to her country in Iraq.

Specialist Heredia has been described as a strong-willed young woman, dedicated to her community and her country.  She joined the U.S. Army in 2005 and served as a member of the 15th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Cavalry, deployed from Fort Hood, Texas.  She was the first servicewoman from the San Gabriel Valley to die in Iraq and was laid to rest on her 20th birthday.

Naming Post Offices allows Congress to honor local heroes. Marisol Heredia is not just a local hero but a national hero.  I am pleased that Representative Solis has introduced legislation to honor her memory in her home town, and I am pleased to be part of that effort.

Sincerely,

Barbara Boxer
United States Senator