Discussion · House of Representatives
Ryan Mackenzie Republican
“I want to honor Michael Matsko, a Navy veteran who was wounded in the Vietnam War. I am thanking him for his military service and for continuing to teach students about the war.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veteran Michael T. Matsko. Michael enlisted in the United States Navy in 1964 and deployed to Vietnam in 1968, during the Tet Offensive. Serving with the brown water Navy, he was wounded when his base at Quy Nhon came under attack. Despite suffering combat injuries that left him with retained shrapnel, he returned to duty and completed his deployment in service to our Nation. Like so many Vietnam veterans, Michael has carried the lasting effects of war long after returning home. Yet, he has remained committed to serving others by sharing his experience with students and community groups, helping future generations better understand the sacrifices made by those who served in Vietnam. Michael was also honored by his fellow veterans by creating a commemorative keepsake from recycled American flags, preserving their stories and ensuring their service is never forgotten. On behalf of the people of the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, I thank Michael Matsko for his courage, his service, and his continued dedication to preserving the legacy of America’s veterans.”
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veteran Michael T. Matsko. Michael enlisted in the United States Navy in 1964 and deployed to Vietnam in 1968, during the Tet Offensive. Serving with the brown water Navy, he was wounded when his base at Quy Nhon came under attack. Despite suffering combat injuries that left him with retained shrapnel, he returned to duty and completed his deployment in service to our Nation. Like so many Vietnam veterans, Michael has carried the lasting effects of war long after returning home. Yet, he has remained committed to serving others by sharing his experience with students and community groups, helping future generations better understand the sacrifices made by those who served in Vietnam. Michael was also honored by his fellow veterans by creating a commemorative keepsake from recycled American flags, preserving their stories and ensuring their service is never forgotten. On behalf of the people of the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, I thank Michael Matsko for his courage, his service, and his continued dedication to preserving the legacy of America’s veterans.