H.R. 5589: To name the Department of Veterans Affairs clinic located in Riverhead, New York, as the “Private First Class Garfield M. Langhorn VA Clinic”, and for other purposes.

This bill is designed to officially name the Department of Veterans Affairs clinic located in Riverhead, New York, as the “Private First Class Garfield M. Langhorn VA Clinic.” The purpose of this naming is to honor Private First Class Garfield McConnell Langhorn for his bravery and sacrifice during the Vietnam War.

Findings

The bill includes several findings that highlight the life and service of Private First Class Langhorn:

• Langhorn was born on September 10, 1948, in Cumberland, Virginia, and grew up in Riverhead, New York.
• He graduated from Riverside High School in 1967 and worked for Suffolk County before being drafted into the United States Army in 1968.
• As a radio operator, he was deployed to Vietnam in November 1968 with Troop C, 7th Squadron (Airmobile), 17th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Aviation Brigade.
• He took part in a rescue mission on January 15, 1969, but during the combat, he was surrounded by enemy forces.
• In a selfless act of courage, Langhorn threw himself on a grenade to save the lives of his comrades, ultimately sacrificing his own life.

This act of valor is commemorated in the bill as an example of extraordinary heroism.

Name Designation

Upon enactment of the bill, the clinic will officially bear the name "Private First Class Garfield M. Langhorn VA Clinic." This designation will apply to all references made in laws, regulations, maps, documents, records, and other official papers of the United States.

Impact and Purpose

The primary impact of the bill is the formal recognition of Private First Class Langhorn’s sacrifices and service by naming a public facility in his honor. This act aims to ensure his legacy is remembered and serves as an inspiration to others within the community and the nation.

Relevant Companies

None found