TUCSON – Yesterday, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), a Marine combat veteran and member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, spent time in Tucson honoring former Army Sergeant Jose Valdenegro, a local Iraq and Afghanistan veteran.
Sgt. Valdenegro served in the U.S. Army from 2006 to 2016 as a Fire Support Specialist. In 2009, an IED explosion near his squadron left him with severe injuries to his left foot, which ultimately led to a below-the-knee amputation. Over the course of his service, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM) and the Army Achievement Medal (AAM) for his exceptional sacrifice and bravery.
Yesterday, Senator Gallego presented Sgt. Valdenegro with a payment-free vehicle donated through Wells Fargo’s partnership with the Military Warriors Support Foundation’s Transportation4Heroes program. The program provides vehicles and financial mentoring to combat-wounded veterans and Gold Star families to help them rebuild stability and independence.
“Sergeant Valdenegro showed extraordinary courage in Iraq and Afghanistan, and here at home, he has carried that same strength into his recovery, into raising his daughters, and into serving other veterans in Southern Arizona,” said Senator Gallego. “His courage and dedication to our country represent the very best of what it means to be a soldier and an American. It is my honor to present him with this vehicle and to recognize his extraordinary service to our country.”
After returning home, Sgt. Valdenegro settled in Sahuarita, where he is raising his three daughters and preparing to marry his fiancée, Courtney. In his free time, he volunteers with several local organizations that support wounded servicemembers and enjoys taxidermy, hunting, fishing, hiking, and woodworking. Valdenegro says his top priority right now is helping his daughters successfully complete their education and pursue their goals.
11/15/25