Rep. Jimmy Panetta acknowledges the Central Coast’s Everett Alvarez, Jr.

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION-TV) -- Representative Panetta announced Wednesday that he is recognizing a local politician, Everett Alvarez, Jr. with a Congressional Gold Metal.

Panetta's office says that Alvarez has demonstrated courage and resilience while serving as the country's second longest-serving prisoner of war.

U.S. Senator Alex Padilla brought the bill to the Senate, where it was passed with unanimous consent, according to Panetta's office.

"The bill, which unanimously passed the House earlier this year, now moves to President Biden’s desk for his signature," wrote Panetta's office in a statement.

While flying Operation Pierce Arrow on August 5, 1964, Commander Alvarez's A-4 Skyhawk was shot down and he became the first aviator captured in Vietnam, according to Panetta's announcement.

After 3,113 days in captivity, they say Alvarez faced torture, isolation and starvation. And despite this, Panetta's office says that he still encouraged his fellow POWs to "return with honor" by not cooperating with the enemy.

“When our nation faces tough times and serious challenges for our future, we look to the service and sacrifice of those like Commander Everett Alvarez, Jr. to remind and inspire us as to what it takes for our democracy to endure,” said Rep. Panetta.  “The Everett Alvarez, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act recognizes his heroism with the highest honor Congress can bestow."

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor bestowed by Congress, and is reserved for people who have made significant contributions to American history and culture, according to Panetta's office.  By awarding this honor to Salinsa-native Alvarez, Congress recognizes his heroism and the sacrifices of POWs and their families.

“Commander Alvarez is an American hero who served as an inspiring source of hope for other Prisoners of War during his time in Vietnam,” said Senator Padilla.  “A Salinas native, his unwavering courage and bravery in the face of torture and isolation deserves the highest recognition in Congress."

Panetta's office says that after receiving the President’s signature, the medal will be commissioned and a ceremony will be held in the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.