South OC Times

Washington – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) has announced that he will be hosting Coral Briseno, the mother of Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto Sanchez, as his guest for the 2024 State of the Union Address. Cpl. Sanchez was one of 13 U.S. servicemembers killed on August 26, 2021, at the Kabul Airport’s Abbey Gate during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Regarding the invitation, Rep. Issa expressed, "Humberto Sanchez is a hero. And we will never forget this outstanding young man’s service to our country nor his ultimate sacrifice. Coral is not only a friend, she is an inspiration, and I’m proud to ensure she will attend as my guest and take her place at our side." Rep. Issa also criticized President Biden for not meeting with Gold Star families, stating, "President Biden has repeatedly refused to meet with these Gold Star families and rebuffed all of our attempts to bring them to the White House. He has never made this right, his administration has never been held to account, and if he can’t face these families at the White House, he will have to face them tomorrow night in the People’s House."

In August 2023, Ms. Briseno participated in Congressman Issa's Gold Star Family Public Forum, the first public event featuring Gold Star families, and a House Foreign Affairs Gold Star Family roundtable. This gesture by Rep. Issa highlights the importance of honoring and supporting Gold Star families who have lost loved ones in service to the nation.