Recognizing the 100th Birthday of Paul David Lopez

Floor Speech

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Mr. CARBAJAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an extraordinary American and beloved member of the Santa Barbara community, Paul David Lopez, as he celebrates his 100th birthday on June 22, 2025.

Born in Santa Barbara, California, in 1925 in a home his father built by hand, Mr. Lopez's life has been a shining example of courage, service, and commitment to country and community. A proud son of the Eastside, Paul attended Franklin Elementary, Santa Barbara Junior High, and Santa Barbara High School. In 1943, during what would have been his senior year, Paul made the brave and selfless decision to leave school and enlist in the United States Navy during World War II.

Assigned as a 20-millimeter antiaircraft gunner aboard the USS Maryland, Paul served with distinction in some of the most consequential battles in the Pacific theater, including Kwajalein, Saipan, Tinian, Leyte Gulf, and Okinawa. He survived torpedo attacks, kamikaze strikes, and the historic Typhoon Louise while stationed in Okinawa. His dedication and bravery reflect the very best of our Greatest Generation.

After returning home in 1946, Paul built a new life while continuing to serve. He was later recalled to Active Duty during the Korean war, where he was stationed in the Marshall Islands as part of a Seabee unit maintaining critical airfields. Upon his second honorable discharge, Paul began a long and respected career at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he worked for over four decades, retiring in 1990 as the longest-serving employee in the campus' history.

Paul married Gladys Cota in 1958, becoming a devoted husband and loving father to Marcia, Ronald, and Paula. Known fondly as ``Uncle Paulie'' and ``The Mayor of Chino Street,'' he and Gladys became cherished pillars of Santa Barbara's Westside, mentoring and caring for generations of local children with wisdom and heart.

In a touching full-circle moment, Paul walked down the hill at Peabody Stadium in 2013 to receive his long-overdue Santa Barbara High School diploma, graduating alongside his grandson, Diego, nearly 70 years after he left school to serve his country.

Mr. Speaker, on this occasion of his 100th birthday, we recognize Paul David Lopez not just for the longevity of his years, but for the richness of his legacy. He is a war hero, a public servant, a family man, and a treasured friend to so many. It is an honor to celebrate his century of life, sacrifice, and service.

Happy 100th birthday to Paul. I thank him for everything he has given--to his Nation, to his community, and to all of us.

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