DeSaulnier Statement on Passing of Major General Dan Helix

Walnut Creek, CA – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) issued the following statement on the passing of retired U.S. Army Major General and former Concord City Councilman and Mayor Dan Helix.

"Dan Helix dedicated his life to serving his country and his community. As a member of the United States Army and in his role as a councilmember and mayor of Concord, putting others first was Dan's passion," Congressman DeSaulnier said. "The impact he made on the city of Concord continues to be felt today and will serve the city's residents for years to come. Our thoughts are with Major General Helix's family as we celebrate and remember his legacy of service."

A Korean War veteran, Helix earned the Army Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star with "V" Device, and Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster among other commendations during a distinguished 41-year career spent both in active duty and with the Army Reserve. He is also a member of the U.S. Army's Infantry Hall of Fame. Helix was first elected to the Concord City Council in 1968, serving for eight years before eventually going on to serve as a director of the Bay Area Rapid Transit District. He returned to the Council in 2010 as an appointee and was elected to one final term in 2012. In addition, Helix was a former president of both the Concord Rotary Club and the former Mt. Diablo Hospital Foundation, Concord campus, as well as a member of a U.S. Congressional commission that evaluated potential changes in the Department of the Army.