Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Clay County's upcoming America250 celebration. 250 years ago, America was born from a revolutionary idea: that government gets its power from the people. That idea became the United States of America. This year, our Nation celebrates its 250th anniversary. Back home in Clay County, Florida, we are marking this historic milestone by remembering what we inherited and recommitting ourselves to passing it on.

On October 14, in celebration of America's 250th anniversary, Clay County leaders will gather at the Historic Triangle in Green Cove Springs to sign our America 250 proclamation at exactly 2:50 in the afternoon.

October 14 has special meaning. On that day in 1774, the First Continental Congress adopted the Declaration and Resolves, another important step on the road to July 4, 1776.

Mr. Speaker, freedom does not run on autopilot. Every generation must teach it, defend it, and pass it on. Clay County is answering that call.

On October 14, Clay County will not simply remember American history. We will add a page to it. May God bless Clay County, and may God continue to bless the United States of America.

I include in the Record the following proclamation:

WHEREAS, on July 4, 1776, our nation's founders declared

that all people are created equal and are endowed with the

unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of

happiness, establishing the principles that continue to guide

the United States of America; and

WHEREAS, for 250 years, generations of Americans have

defended those ideals through service, sacrifice, innovation,

civic engagement, and an unwavering commitment to self-

government; and

WHEREAS, Clay County has played an important role in our

nation's history, from its early settlements along the St.

Johns River to its enduring support of agriculture, military

service, conservation, commerce, and the freedoms that define

our American way of life; and

WHEREAS, the people of Clay County have built strong

communities rooted in faith, family, hard work, and public

service, creating a legacy that reflects the very principles

upon which our Nation was founded; and

WHEREAS, the 250th anniversary of the United States offers

an opportunity to honor the courage and vision of those who

came before us while recognizing our shared responsibility to

preserve our history, protect our freedoms, and strengthen

our communities for future generations; and

WHEREAS, Clay County is proud to commemorate America's

Semiquincentennial through educational programs, community

celebrations, historic preservation efforts, and the

establishment of a permanent Charters of Freedom display,

creating a lasting tribute to the Declaration of

Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Bill of

Rights for residents and visitors alike; and

WHEREAS, this anniversary reminds us that the American

story is still being written, and that each generation has

the privilege and responsibility to safeguard liberty,

encourage civic participation, and inspire those who will

follow us; and

NOW, THEREFORE, WE, the undersigned elected officials of

Clay County, together with our state and federal legislative

partners, do hereby proclaim our shared commitment to

honoring the 250th Anniversary of the United States of

America.

We encourage all residents to reflect upon our nation's

history, celebrate the enduring ideals of freedom and

democracy, recognize the sacrifices made to preserve them,

and work together to ensure that the blessings of liberty

continue for generations to come.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands this

14th day of October, in Clay County, Florida, in celebration

of America 250 and in recognition of our enduring commitment

to our Nation, our community, and the generations yet to

come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and memory of Myra Ann Landress Jones, a beloved native of Fernandina Beach, Florida, who passed away on September 8, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born on June 6, 1940, to Raymond and Inez Landress, Myra was a proud member of the Fernandina Beach High School graduating class of 1958 and a lifelong pillar of our local community. Her faith and community spirit shone brightly through her active membership at Springhill Baptist Church and her passionate support as a University of Florida Gator Booster.

Myra dedicated decades of her life to public service, retiring from the Federal government after distinguished work as a legal assistant with the United States Attorney in New Hampshire, the Florida Veterans Administration, and the Federal Aviation Administration. Never one to slow down, she continued serving Nassau County by working for the School Board of Nassau County and Fernandina Beach Realty for two decades before her well-earned retirement in 2018 at the age of 78.

Above all else, Myra's heart belonged to her family. She was a devoted mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and surrogate grandmother whose warmth, guidance, and love enriched multiple generations. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy in her sons, Benjamin and David; her daughter, Leslie; her extended family; and a growing lineage of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will forever cherish her memory.

Mr. Speaker, Myra Ann Landress Jones lived a life defined by quiet dedication to her country, her community, and her loved ones. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring her memory and extending our deepest condolences to her family during this time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Donald ``Don'' David Patchen, a decorated Vietnam veteran, longtime law enforcement officer, and devoted public servant, who passed away on April 21, 2026, at the age of 79.

Don lived a life defined by courage, service, and a commitment to others. From 1966 to 1969, he served our nation in the United States Army, including combat duty in the Vietnam War. He was wounded twice in service to his country--a reflection of the sacrifice he willingly made in defense of our nation and the freedoms we cherish.

Following his military service, Don joined the Tallahassee Police Department, beginning a distinguished 27-year career in law enforcement. For 17 of those years, he was a homicide detective, including serving as the lead investigator in the Ted Bundy case.

Later in his career, Don served as a Field Training Officer, where he passed on his experience and hard-earned knowledge to the next generation of officers.

Don served for several years as president of the Optimist Club of Tallahassee, continuing his lifelong dedication to community and supporting others.

Yet Don was far more than his uniform or badge. He embraced life with energy and curiosity. He was a judo champion, a skilled pilot, a motorcycle enthusiast, and a competitive dog trainer.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Bean Patchen; his daughter, Dr. Kim Al-Mayyah, and her husband, Hayder; his son, Bubba Carver, and his wife, Jenna; his daughter, Ragan Simpson, and her spouse, Paige; and his niece, Angela Reynolds.

Mr. Speaker, as we mark 250 years of American independence, we are reminded that our nation's story is carried forward by men and women like Don Patchen--those who answered the call to serve and who continued that service long after their formal duty ended. Because of lives like his, our nation is stronger, and our gratitude is deeper.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Master Sergeant Bill Anno for a lifetime of extraordinary public service, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to the citizens of Nassau County and the United States of America.

For those of us who serve Northeast Florida, Bill is a familiar and reassuring presence. For years, as a court security officer at the historic Nassau County Courthouse, Bill was the very first face to greet members of the public and elected officials alike. Stretching back to my time in the Florida State Senate, whenever I held constituent meetings at the historic courthouse, I knew we were in safe hands with Bill guarding the door. His quiet vigilance, warmth, and professionalism set the standard for public safety.

Bill's distinguished career in uniform began in 1978 when he enlisted in the United States Air Force. Over 24 years of honorable active-duty service, Bill rose to the rank of Master Sergeant, E-7, serving as a Law Enforcement

Supervisor and earning high honors, including: 8th Security Forces Squadron Senior NCO of the Year at Kunsan Air Base in Korea, Shift Chief of the Year at Beale Air Force Base, and Military Volunteer of the Year at Patrick Air Force Base.

Following his military service, Bill continued to protect and serve his community here at home. Across two decades with the Nassau County Sheriff's Office, Bill served in nearly every capacity, from Dispatcher and Patrol Deputy to Detective, Crime Scene Investigator, and Courthouse Security Officer. His excellence in law enforcement was repeatedly recognized by his peers, earning him Nassau County Deputy of the Year in 2008, Detective of the Year in 2012, and the Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award in 2018. Beyond his professional career, Bill's heart for service shines in everything he does. A dedicated community leader, Bill has mentored generations of young people through the Boy Scouts of America for over twenty years, serving as Scout Leader for Troop 152 in Yulee, District Commissioner, and receiving the prestigious Silver Beaver Award in 2018. He is also an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, the Yulee Lions Club, Callahan Lodge No. 32 F&AM, and Amelia Baptist Church. Mr. Speaker, Bill Anno's life is a masterclass in civic duty, selflessness, and devotion to community and country.

On behalf of Florida's 4th Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude to Bill Anno for keeping us safe, guiding our youth, and serving Nassau County with honor and distinction. We wish him and his family all the very best in his well-earned retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Nassau County Sheriff's Office as it celebrates a historic and remarkable milestone: 200 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Northeast Florida.

The distinguished legacy of law enforcement in Nassau County began in 1827, when Florida Governor William Pope Duval appointed Sheriff Harman Holiman as the county's very first law enforcement officer.

For two centuries, the courageous men and women of this office, both sworn deputies and dedicated civilian personnel, have worked tirelessly to preserve the rule of law, ensure domestic tranquility, and protect the lives and property of our residents and visitors.

Today, this exceptional tradition of public safety continues under the leadership of Sheriff Bill Leeper, who began his dedicated service as the county's 24th Sheriff on January 8, 2013. Under his steady guidance, the Nassau County Sheriff's Office remains a beacon of professionalism, integrity, and proactive community partnership.

Mr. Speaker, a bicentennial milestone is a time for celebration, but it is also a hallowed opportunity to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our community. Over the past two centuries, fourteen dedicated heroes gave their lives in the line of duty while serving Nassau County, including eight Deputies, one Police Chief, one Florida Highway Patrol Trooper, one Constable, and two Florida Department of Agriculture Officers. We owe these fallen law enforcement officers, and the families they left behind, a debt of gratitude that can never truly be repaid.

As the Nassau County Sheriff's Office prepares its historic yearbook ahead of its official anniversary in January 2027, it is fitting that we pay special tribute to the professionals who keep our neighborhoods safe every single day.

On behalf of the people of Florida's 4th Congressional District, I congratulate Sheriff Bill Leeper and the entire Nassau County Sheriff's Office on 200 years of faithful service, and I thank them for their unwavering commitment to our community, our state, and our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colonel James ``Jim'' Chalkley, Retired, on his nomination and induction into the United States Army Transportation Corps Hall of Fame at Fort Lee, Virginia on July 27, 2026. The Transportation Corps Hall of Fame honors those whose careers exemplify the highest standards of service, leadership, and lasting contribution to Army operations. Few officers have had the breadth of impact, depth of experience, or the lasting influence that Colonel Chalkley has demonstrated throughout his career. Today, I'd like to honor his lifetime of service extending across several continents, conflicts and generations of soldiers.

Colonel Jim Chalkley's decorated career reflects over two decades of exceptional leadership and dedication to the United States Army. A graduate of the esteemed Virginia Military Institute, Jim embodies a lifelong commitment to professional education. Among other schooling, he earned his master's degree in Logistics Systems Management at Florida Institute of Technology and studied National Security and Strategic Studies at the U.S. Navy War College.

Over the course of his military service, Jim refined his expertise in transportation, deployment operations, personnel management and

strategic planning. He commanded transportation battalions, served assignments at the Pentagon, and held senior leadership positions throughout the United States and Europe. Among his most impactful assignments, Jim served as Deputy Commander of the 7th Transportation Group during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, helping lead one of the largest transportation and logistics efforts in modern Army history. During Operation Restore Hope in Somalia, he commanded the 6th Transportation Battalion where he instituted vital humanitarian relief operations. These assignments, in addition to his position as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the United States Army Europe, offer just a glimpse of a career defined by his exceptional service to our nation. His many awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit Award and seven Meritorious Service Medals, reflect the high regard in which he is held. Jim was nominated for this honor by Colonel (Ret) Ed Fortunato, and he received endorsements from Major General (Ret) David A. Whaley and Lieutenant General (Ret) Dan Brown. But of course, he couldn't have achieved this success without the support of his wife of 53 years, Sharon.

As Colonel Chalkley is inducted into the United States Army Hall of Fame, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing his exemplary career and a legacy that will be felt throughout the United States Army for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize someone whose name is not in the headlines, but whose impact has been felt through the Halls of Congress and across America. Mr. Speaker, today I have the distinct privilege of honoring my chief of staff, Jamie Robinette, as she retires after 25 years of extraordinary service to the United States House of Representatives.

For 25 years, Jamie Robinette has been one of those professionals whose leadership, wisdom, and steady hand have helped Members of Congress serve their constituents with excellence. Jamie has spent her career making others successful, including this Congressman, Mr. Speaker, and ensuring that the people's business gets done.

Jamie's congressional journey began in 2001 with Congressman John Culberson of Texas. Over her first 18 years in that office, she held virtually every position and eventually, not surprisingly, rose to chief of staff. She became known quickly as someone whose judgment could be trusted, whose word was good, and whose dedication to public service never wavered.

She later brought that same commitment and experience as chief of staff to Congressman Ross Spano and senior adviser to Congressman Neal Dunn and as the first executive director of the Suburban Caucus under Congresswoman Ann Wagner. At every stop, Jamie earned a reputation for building strong teams, developing talented staff, and solving difficult problems.

From my very first day as a Member of Congress, Jamie became my trusted adviser and leader of the Bean Team. She has helped shape our office into one that puts constituents first, responds with urgency, and approaches every challenge with professionalism and respect.

Anyone who has crossed paths or worked with Jamie knows that she possesses both institutional knowledge and genuine humility. She understands the rules of the House, the complexities of the legislative process, and the utmost importance of constituent service.

What truly sets her apart is how she treats people. She leads with grace. She listens before she speaks, and she mentors young staff with patience and encouragement. She celebrates the success of others before her own. She constantly takes calls from me: Hey, can you talk to this young person who is thinking about a career? She takes it and gives them that advice.

To Jamie's family, who is in the gallery today, thank you for sharing her with me and the institution which she served so faithfully. Public service requires sacrifice not only from those who serve, but those who support them at home. The recognition belongs to you as well.

Mr. Speaker, public service remains one of the noblest callings in our Nation. Jamie has answered that call every day for 25 years with honor, excellence, humility, and grace.

On behalf of the United States House of Representatives and the people of Florida's Fourth Congressional District, thank you, Jamie. God bless you, your family, and the next chapter of your life. Go get `em.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Bryan Campbell as he will be sworn in as President of the Rotary Club of Orange Park Sunrise in Clay County, Florida, on June 27, 2026.

Bryan has been a Rotarian since 2012, living the club motto of ``Service Above Self'' through more than a decade of work in community service, youth development, food security, health, wellness, and local philanthropy. As President, he will lead with a clear goal: ensuring the Rotary Club of Orange Park Sunrise strengthens Clay County through service, collaboration, and leadership.

Bryan's service extends far beyond Rotary. As my District Director, he works every day to connect the people of Northeast Florida with their federal government, solve problems for constituents, and strengthen relationships across our communities.

Before joining my office, Bryan led major healthcare organizations in Colorado and Florida. He helped author LifeBridge, a physician wellness program used by more than 30 medical societies nationwide to address physician burnout, depression, and suicide. He also created the Blue Paisley Ribbon to recognize National Thyroid Awareness Month.

Earlier in his career, Bryan was an Emmy Award-winning journalist, bringing the same commitment to public service that would later define his work in healthcare advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and constituent service.

Bryan has served as President of the American Association of Medical Society Executives, Chair of the Council of Florida Medical Society Executives, Chairman of Jacksonville's Mayor's Council for Fitness and Wellbeing, Chairman of the Clay County Charter Review Commission, Director of Challenge Enterprises, and President of North Florida PRSA.

In every chapter, Bryan has brought people together, strengthened institutions, and turned service into impact. Bryan is joined in this milestone by his wife, Sarah; his children, Lauren and Nathan; and his grandson, Lincoln.

On behalf of the people of Florida's 4th Congressional District, I congratulate Bryan Campbell on his installation as President of the Rotary Club of Orange Park Sunrise, and I thank him for his service to our community, our state, and our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, some people dedicate their lives to serving others. Few do so with the distinction, humility, and lasting impact of Colonel Francis ``Len'' Leonard Loving.

Today, I rise to honor the life and legacy of this remarkable American, whose service to our Nation, our veterans, and the Northeast Florida community spanned more than six decades.

Born in Richmond, Virginia, Len built a life defined by leadership, discipline, and commitment to others. After graduating Magna Cum Laude from Southern Benedictine College, he was commissioned into the United States Marine Corps, where he served honorably for 30 years. Rising to the rank of Colonel, he completed multiple tours in Vietnam and earned the Bronze Star with Combat ``V'' for valor. He also played a key role in establishing the Marine Corps Blount Island Command in Jacksonville, a lasting contribution to both our military and our region.

Following his distinguished military career, Len continued his service by leading the Five STAR Veterans Center, where he helped countless homeless veterans find stability, independence, and hope. His dedication to those who served reflected the compassion and character that defined his life.

Above all, Len was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He was a devoted husband to his first wife Ruth before her passing, and shared 41 wonderful years with his beloved wife, Suzie. He was a source of strength, wisdom, and encouragement for his family and all who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, as we remember Colonel Loving, we celebrate a life of honor, service, and leadership. His legacy lives on in the veterans he helped, the Marines he led, and the family and community he loved.

May his memory be a blessing, and may his example continue to inspire us all.

Mr. Speaker, some people spend a lifetime building a community. Others become the heart of one. In Baker County, Florida, that person was Gedone Raulerson Prachar.

Those who knew Gedone often said she never met a stranger. Whether she was welcoming someone into her home, serving her community, or advocating for causes she believed in, she had a unique gift of bringing people together and making them feel like family.

Today, I rise to honor the life and legacy of this remarkable Floridian.

Gedone was a pioneer in local civic engagement. She established the Baker County Women's Republican Club, opening doors for women to participate in public service and enhancing grassroots leadership within the community.

She was an active member of the GFWC Woman's Club of Macclenny, where she dedicated herself to service and supporting the community. Whether through organized efforts or small acts of kindness, Gedone was always ready to help.

Above all, Gedone cherished her family. She shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Chuck, and took great pride in her family, including her children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren, whose lives were enriched by her love, support, and wisdom.

Mr. Speaker, as we remember Geclone, we celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will continue to be felt throughout Northeast Florida. Her kindness, leadership, and servant's heart made her the kind of person every community hopes to have and never forgets.

May her memory be a blessing, and may her example continue to inspire us all.

Mr. Speaker, I want to take you back 100 years. The year is 1926. Calvin Coolidge was President. We only had 48 States. Silent films were all the rage, and Americans were just beginning to discover the joy

of the family road trip. It was a year of optimism, growth, and community spirit.

It was also the year the Rotary Club of Fernandina Beach, Florida, was founded.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of this remarkable organization for a century of service and fellowship.

Mr. Speaker, for me, it is personal. I have had the honor of being a member of this club, joining in 1990, and even serving as its club president. One of my most memorable moments of my Rotary journey was swearing in my own son, Bradley Bean, as president not too long ago.

For 100 years, the Rotary Club of Fernandina Beach has strengthened our community by supporting local students, advancing literacy, leading humanitarian projects, both locally, nationally, and even internationally, and living out the values that has defined Rotary since its founding in 1905 by Paul Harris.

Mr. Speaker, you may ask, is there going to be a party? The answer is: Yes, there will be. There will be a gathering of both current and former members to celebrate the milestone, as well as all the accomplishments in 100 years. They will honor every member who has given their talent, their time, and their heart to make Fernandina Beach and the world a better place.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the Rotary Club of Fernandina Beach on 100 amazing years of ``Service Above Self.'' I wish them another century of impact, leadership, and community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Captain Stephen C. Duba, Jr. upon his retirement from the United States Navy after 25 years of honorable service to our Nation.

A native of Jacksonville, Florida, Captain Duba has lived a life shaped by service, sacrifice, and devotion to country. Raised in a Navy family, he graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering and Shipyard Management, as well as a U.S. Coast Guard Third Assistant Engineer's License for vessels of unlimited tonnage. He later earned a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island.

Throughout his distinguished career, Captain Duba served around the world in sea and shore assignments involving explosive ordnance disposal, diving, mine countermeasures, weapons technical exploitation, and strategic naval operations. His service included assignments aboard USS Sentry, with EOD Mobile Unit SIX, at Kings Bay Submarine Base, with Carrier Strike Group ELEVEN, at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit, with Expeditionary Exploitation Unit ONE, and in command of EOD Mobile Unit EIGHT in Rota, Spain. Across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Pacific, Captain Duba led sailors in complex and dangerous missions that strengthened our national security and supported our allies and partners.

From August 2023 to July 2026, Captain Duba completed his final tour as Commanding Officer of Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division and Director for Joint EOD Technology. In that role, he led one of the Navy's most critical commands, supporting research, development, testing, evaluation, engineering, manufacturing, explosive ordnance disposal, and weapons technical exploitation for U.S. and allied forces. Under his leadership, the command advanced the Navy's Energetics Comprehensive Modernization Plan, helping strengthen the Nation's munitions industrial base.

Captain Duba is designated as an EOD Warfare Officer, Surface Warfare Officer, Diving Officer, and Naval Parachutist. These qualifications reflect not only his technical expertise, but also his courage, discipline, and commitment to leading from the front.

Mr. Speaker, military service is never carried by the service member alone. Captain Duba's wife, Kristine, and children, Charlie, Tommy, and Lilly, served alongside him through every assignment, every deployment, and every sacrifice required of a Navy family. Their love and support helped make his extraordinary career possible.

On behalf of Florida's 4th Congressional District and a grateful Nation, I congratulate Captain Stephen C. Duba, Jr. on his retirement from the United States Navy. We thank him for his faithful service, commend his outstanding career, and wish him and his family fair winds and following seas.

Madam Speaker, I thank our chairman for yielding.

Taking care of our most vulnerable citizens is what a civilized society does, and it is why Congress created TANF, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. TANF is just that, temporary assistance for the most needy among us.

Like other safety net programs, Madam Speaker, we partner with the States. It is the most efficient way to deliver care.

My question for this body is, should we ever have to worry about the States using TANF dollars for any program other than TANF?

You wouldn't think we would have to worry about that at all, but, Madam Speaker, the report from the GAO, our Government Accountability Office, is in. It seems we do have to worry about States using TANF dollars for other than TANF recipients.

The report is in. They have used it for education programs and college scholarships. They have built roads and enhanced their State transportation systems. The crown gem offender, Madam Speaker, is a State, which will remain nameless today, that has built a sports stadium with TANF dollars. It is not what TANF was intended to do,

nor is it the creative, cooperative partnership that was intended by working with the States. It is time Congress says: Enough.

That is why I have sponsored a bill with Claudia Tenney from the great State of New York to create TANF dollars as a general revenue targeted specifically to the neediest among us and not as a revenue slush fund for these States. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of this bill, H.R. 8872, the Preventing Waste, Fraud, and Abuse in TANF Act, which includes many reforms, but this one right here, States, we have to trust them with the money given.

Madam Speaker, I remind everybody in this room that every TANF family is different, but the typical TANF family is a single mom. She has 2.1 kids. She is working 1.2 jobs. She drives a car that is 16 years old. The back window is taped up. Maybe there is a spare tire that she can't change because diapers elevate higher than car repairs. She is the one we need to make these reforms for.

I urge my colleagues to join me, to join everybody, in voting ``yes'' for TANF reform so that we can help the neediest among us.

Mr. Speaker, they say the only thing harder than winning a championship is defending it. Don't tell that to the Jax Gents stomp team from Jacksonville, Florida, because, right now, they are celebrating back-to-back national championships.

The Jax Gents are one of northeast Florida's premier youth leadership programs committed to developing young men through discipline, service, and excellence.

This year, they once again stepped onto the national stage, earning their second Stomp Wars USA National Championship.

This is more than just a trophy, Mr. Speaker. Through the art of step, these young men are developing teamwork and character as they grow into confident young leaders. Whether on stage, in the classroom, or at home, they proudly embody the Jax Gents core values of humility, scholarship, and leadership.

A very special recognition to Head Coach Shomari Gloster, whose talent, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to these young men have not only shaped the championship team, but the young men that they are becoming.

Mr. Speaker, the Jax Gents' steps made history, and their future is already marching toward greatness. I congratulate the Jax Gents. Northeast Florida is very proud of them.

Mr. Speaker, in today's high tech world, there seems to be an app for nearly everything, but when danger strikes there is still only one option. It is called the police, Mr. Speaker.

During National Police Week, I appreciate our officers, deputies, troopers, and the entire law enforcement family who put their lives on the line every day to protect others.

It takes courage to wear a badge. It takes even more courage to respond to an emergency, to step in harm's way, or to confront danger. But for our police, it is just part of the job.

Today, I want to say two words our officers do not hear nearly enough: Thank you. Thank you for protecting our businesses, our communities. Thank you for protecting our families and each of us. Thank you for upholding the law.

I will always back the blue, Mr. Speaker.