Membes of Congress have the right to invite a guest to the State of the Union Speech, and U.S. Rep Henry Cuellar (D-Laredo) has chosen a prominent area resident to sit in his chair in the House gallery...Sutherland Springs resident Stephen Willeford, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.
Willeford is credited with saving lives on November 5, when he took it upon himself to track down and stop the First Baptist Church gunman, who law enforcement agree was determined to shoot and kill more people, after killing 26 and wounding 20 more inside the church.
“I would like to personally thank Wilson County Sheriff Joe Tackitt, Jr., County Commissioner Albert Gamez, Jr., County Judge Richard Jackson, community member Johnnie Langendorff, along with Wilson County first responders, volunteer firefighters and health professionals, for their hard work on that saddening day in November," Cuellar said. "Although the bravery of Wilson County can never be fully rewarded, I am honored to have Mr. Willeford represent these individuals in Washington.”
Willeford, who has shunned publicity, has become a symbol of Americans who are willing to put their own safety on the line to risk others, and to take action when action needs to be taken. He is also a hero among Second Amendment advocates, as the classic 'good guy with a gun.'
“I speak on behalf of the entire Sutherland Springs community when I say that we are grateful to have such an incredible citizen visit,” Cuellar said. “It is amazing that this man, who almost became a victim himself, managed to face the assailant and ultimately prevented further tragedy from unfolding.”
PHOTO COURTESY: US REP HENRY CUELLAR