WASHINGTON Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) recognized long-time Constituent Services Representative Jan Lentz in a speech on the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Lentz recently retired from the San Angelo Congressional Office.
Remarks as prepared for delivery:
“I rise today to honor a lifelong public servant and a valuable member of Team Pfluger, Mrs. Jan Lentz. For approximately seven years, Jan has devoted her time and talents to the people of the 11th District of Texas by serving as a Constituent Services Representative, and helping thousands of veterans and constituents along the way. I wish I could fully express the impact Jan has had throughout her lifetime of service.
“Prior to coming to work in our office, Jan served at the Department of Veterans Affairs working with veterans diagnosed with PTSD and other conditions. Since completing her master’s degree in Social Work in 1998 and receiving her licensing for Clinical Social Work and Board Approval, Jan has continuously cultivated a community of trust and care. She has changed the lives of so many, including those in the Vietnam support group she has led for more than 15 years. Recently, Jan was part of the counseling rapid response team that served the community of Uvalde immediately after the tragedy last year. Her heart extends beyond her immediate neighbors, and where there is a need, Jan strives to fill it.
“While she is a gifted social worker who has spent her entire career serving others, Jan’s greatest impact on our community is felt through her work with veterans and their families. Over the years, Jan has secured countless benefits for veterans and impacted thousands of veteran families. Last year alone, Jan returned over one hundred thousand dollars in taxes back to constituents, a goal she set and exceeded.
“One of her passions is making pottery, and she has used this talent to inspire hope and healing for our community. She has shared her love of pottery for years with her group at the local museum and through the “Poppy Project”, a 2019 dream project of Jan’s that brought Concho Valley veterans together to handcraft one thousand poppies out of clay. The poppies became more than a symbol of sacrifice, but a way for veterans to connect and heal together. She brought our community around the veterans to offer support and care – seeing a need and filling it.
“Jan is someone we all wish we could be more like. She consistently gives her all with no desire for personal recognition. As she now moves into her new chapter of retirement, we are grateful for all she has done for our community and as a part of our family.
“Jan, your impact on our community is incalculable, and your legacy is boundless. You will be missed beyond words. Thank you from our team, district, state, and country. We are all better because of you.”
