LAKEWOOD - Rep. Linda S?°nchez continued her monthly veterans' outreach program and named retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant Robert Luckel of Hawaiian Gardens as the 39th Congressional District's Veteran of the Month on Tuesday.Luckel was chosen by S?°nchez' Veterans Advisory Council. Luckel, a World War II combat veteran, began his military career in 1940 by enlisting with the U.S. Army. While serving, he was assigned to a RECON division as chief of communications and did a tour of duty in the South Pacific. Luckel's courage and heroism while in combat earned him many awards and medals, including the Bronze Star. He retired from the U.S. Army at the rank of Master Sergeant after 30 years of service. He also served as a reserve with the Army National Guard. "Mr. Luckel's sacrifice to our nation cannot be overstated and I am pleased to honor him today," said S?°nchez. "The selfless devotion of America's Greatest Generation is an inspiration to all Americans and I hope this recognition inspires younger Americans to consider how they might serve their country." After World War II, Luckel moved to Lakewood and eventually settled in Hawaiian Gardens, where he married his wife of 34 years, June. They had two daughters, Donna and Kathy, six grandsons, and 15 great-grand children. Luckel is 94 and an active volunteer in his community. He is an active member of American Legion Post 496 of Long Beach and serves on its executive committee. He is also an annual participant in the city of Long Beach's Veteran's Day Parade, in which he drives his Trans Am convertible. S?°nchez' "Veteran of the Month" program is coordinated by her Veterans Advisory Council, composed of distinguished veterans from across the district. Each month, a veteran will be recognized for service overseas and here at home. For more information regarding the "Veteran of the Month Program" contact Jamie Zamora at jamie.zamora@mail.house.gov or (562) 860-5050.

********** Published: November 11, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 30