Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary individual from Pennsylvania's First Congressional District--someone who has gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to both our community and our country. It is with great respect and admiration that I recognize Valerie Hamilton, one of our district's distinguished Hometown Heroes.

Hometown Heroes are not defined by titles or accolades, but by the quiet power of their actions. They are distinguished by their unwavering integrity, the strength of their character, and their steadfast commitment to the people and places they serve. They are the foundation upon which our communities stand--the ones who lift others up, inspire hope, and in doing so, call us all to higher standards of service and compassion. Valerie Hamilton has embodied this spirit in ways that words can scarcely capture.

Since 2012, Valerie--owner, founder, and executive director of Children of God Educational Services--has been a driving force in transforming early education and childcare in Bristol Borough. With a relentless focus on strengthening family bonds and immersing children in rich, local experiences, Valerie has built more than a childcare service--she has cultivated a foundation for lifelong success. Every day, Valerie and her devoted team go above and beyond to provide children with the skills, opportunities, and confidence they need to thrive. Through her carefully crafted Preschool, After School, and Summer Camp programs, she not only enriches young minds but also offers critical support to working parents, empowering families to succeed.

Valerie's mission is rooted in more than education--she shapes character, instilling integrity, compassion, and a deep sense of community in every child she serves. Her unwavering commitment to high- quality care and her ability to inspire and uplift have left a lasting mark on countless children and families. Her work is not just childcare; it is a beacon of hope, opportunity, and purpose, changing lives and building a stronger future for our community.

It is through the work of people like Valerie Hamilton that our communities thrive and our Nation grows stronger. Her service, given without expectation of recognition, stands as a testament to the belief that one individual's dedication can ripple through the lives of many, sparking change, fostering resilience, and inspiring hope. Today, we honor Valerie Hamilton not just for her remarkable deeds but for who she is--a true hero in every sense of the word.

On behalf of Pennsylvania's First Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude to Valerie Hamilton for her extraordinary service. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring this exceptional individual, whose leadership

and spirit of service will inspire generations to come. May her example remind us of the boundless potential within each of us to make our communities, country, and world a better place.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary individual from Pennsylvania's First Congressional District--

someone who has gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to both our community and our country. It is with great respect and admiration that I recognize Amy Keiper-Shaw, one of our district's distinguished Hometown Heroes.

Hometown Heroes are not defined by titles or accolades but by the quiet power of their actions. They are distinguished by their unwavering integrity, the strength of their character, and their steadfast commitment to the people and places they serve. They are the foundation upon which our communities stand--the ones who lift others up, inspire hope, and, in doing so, call us all to higher standards of service and compassion. Amy has embodied this spirit in ways that words can scarcely capture.

A licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Grief Counselor, Clinical Thanatologist, and Certified Dementia Practitioner, Amy has dedicated her life to providing care, comfort, and compassion to others in our community in challenging times of need. Throughout her career, Amy saw first-hand the heartbreaking suffering of children who lost a loved one and recognized a need for a positive, compassionate and effective bereavement resource for children and their families in our community. And so, in 2013, her non-profit, Hands Holding Hearts, was born and has since become a beacon of comfort and hope for Bucks County children and families as they navigate some of the most painful and difficult times of their lives. Studies show that one in 12 kids will lose a parent or sibling by the age of 18, with that rate only increasing since the pandemic. Without the necessary support and resources to process their grief, children are left without the tools and skills needed to successfully and positively move forward. Through workshops, Camp Feeling Better Summer Camp, counseling, support groups, and community presentations, Amy and her team of experienced counselors provide children with vital education and resources for coping and communicating and the invaluable comfort of knowing they are not alone.

Mr. Speaker, it is through the work of people like Amy that our communities thrive, and our Nation grows stronger. Her efforts remind us of the power in making a positive difference in the lives of children and families in need.

On behalf of Pennsylvania's First Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude to Amy for her extraordinary service. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring this exceptional individual, whose leadership and spirit of service will inspire generations to come. May her example remind us of the boundless potential within each of us to make our communities, country, and world a better place.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary public servant, Chief J. Scott Bendig, on the occasion of his retirement from the Montgomery Township Police Department after 35 years of dedicated service to the Montgomery Township community and the field of law enforcement.

Chief Bendig was born and raised in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. He began his journey into public service by graduating from Bishop McDevitt High School in 1985. He then pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Temple University followed by his completion of the Pennsylvania State Police Academy. Chief Bendig's passion for law enforcement was matched by his commitment to continuous learning, as evidenced by his earning a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice from West Chester University and his graduation from the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. These experiences further solidified his credentials as a leader in public safety.

Chief Bendig dedicated his entire 35-year career in law enforcement to the residents of Montgomery Township. During his tenure, he rose through the ranks, starting as a Recruit Patrol Officer in 1989 before serving as a Canine Officer and Unit Supervisor, Corporal in 2000, Sergeant in 2001, and eventually Deputy Chief in 2010. In 2012, he became Chief of Police, where he embodied professionalism integrity, and a tireless commitment to the safety of the community.

His auxiliary duties included serving as a DARE Officer, DARE Officer in Charge, and Field Training Officer, as well as creating and instructing the Citizens Police Academy and teaching at various police academies. Chief Bendig's commitment to education extended to the classroom. He worked as an Adjunct Faculty member at Gwynedd Mercy University, and as a General Instructor for the Municipal Police Officer Education and Training Commission for over a decade. These teaching roles highlight his dedication to nurturing the next generation of law enforcement professionals.

Under Chief Bendig's leadership, the Montgomery Township Police Department experienced significant advancements in both its operational capabilities and technology infrastructure. One of his most impactful initiatives was the implementation of the Body Worn Camera system, a crucial tool for promoting transparency and accountability. He also led the deployment of Fixed License Plate Readers, which enhanced the department's ability to monitor and respond to criminal activity more effectively.

Chief Bendig's leadership extended far beyond the borders of Montgomery Township. He served as Commander of the Montgomery County Major Incident Response Team, playing a key role in handling critical incidents across the region. He also contributed significantly as the Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator for the township, ensuring preparedness for major emergencies. His leadership roles within law enforcement associations are equally impressive, having served as Executive Chair and President of the Police Chiefs Association of Montgomery County and as a member of the National Security Executive Board for the FBI Philadelphia Field Division.

In addition to his leadership in public safety, Chief Bendig was a trusted instructor and advisor. He served as a Training Committee Chair for the Eastern Pennsylvania FBI National Academy Associates and as a peer reviewer for the United States Department of Justice's Office of Justice Programs. His involvement in the Montgomery County Racial/ Ethnic Disparities Task Force further underscores his commitment to fostering fairness and inclusivity in law enforcement.

Throughout his career, Chief Bendig was recognized with numerous awards and commendations. His accolades include two Unit Citations, two Commendations for Merit, and a Certificate of Commendation, along with countless letters recognizing his commendable service and leadership. His influence extended beyond Montgomery Township, as he served as an instructor and advisor to various law enforcement organizations ensuring his knowledge and experience were shared widely.

What truly distinguishes Chief Bendig, however, is his sincere dedication to the welfare of his officers and the community. He fostered a culture of excellence within the department, constantly challenging younger officers to strive for their full potential. His legacy of leadership is marked by both his technical acumen and his unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of law enforcement professionals.

I am confident that his impact on Montgomery Township will be felt for many years to come. His selfless service, exemplary leadership, and lasting contributions will forever be a part of the community's history.

I extend my deepest gratitude to Chief Bendig for his years of devoted service and wish him the very best in all his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary municipality within my district as it proudly marks the Quasquicentennial of its inception.

Penndel Borough, nestled in the heart of Bucks County, boasts a rich and storied history that traces back to the early days of English colonization when settlers journeyed with the visionary William Penn to establish Pennsylvania as a beacon of freedom and opportunity. In 1684, a tract of several hundred acres lying east of the Neshaminy Creek was granted by William Penn to Thomas Langhorne, later passing to his son Jeremiah Langhorne. This pristine tract, renowned for its natural beauty and lush landscapes, was aptly named Eden, a testament to the idyllic setting that inspired those early settlers.

The landscape transformed significantly in 1876 with the establishment of the Reading Railroad station which ignited a wave of growth and prosperity, leading to the rapid development of homes and businesses that created a vibrant village atmosphere. In 1899, this community was incorporated as Attleborough, a name that reflected its burgeoning identity. Over the years, as the community evolved and grew, it became known as South Langhorne before officially adopting the name Penndel Borough in 1947--a name that resonates throughout Bucks County today with pride and heritage.

This year, Penndel Borough celebrates an incredible 125 years as a self-governing entity. Situated at a bustling crossroads of highways and rail, it is a vital hub of business and transportation and home to more than 2,500 residents, who embody the spirit of community and resilience. The Borough thrives with a diverse business community, churches, and local organizations that contribute to its rich tapestry of culture and support.

This milestone is more than a celebration of history--it represents the hard work, dedication, and vision of the men and women who have come together over the decades to build and nurture this remarkable community.

As we gather to commemorate this remarkable anniversary, let us not only celebrate the rich tapestry of Penndel Borough's history but also honor the indomitable spirit of its people. Penndel Borough is a shining example of all that can be achieved when citizens unite with purpose and passion. The next 125 years hold tremendous potential, and I am confident this community will continue to thrive, innovate, and inspire as a cornerstone of our district.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding organization from my district, Bristol's Bracken American Legion Cadet Junior Drum and Bugle Corps. In 1922, a Boy Scout troop in Bristol, PA, introduced drums and military-style bugles for parades, adopting the name ``Cadets of Bristol.'' This initiative quickly gained popularity among Bristol's youth, and, by 1924, the Cadets of Bristol sought sponsorship from the Robert W. Bracken American Legion Post 382. The Bracken Post graciously agreed, leading to the establishment of the Robert W. Bracken Cadets Junior Drum and Bugle Corps. Now, a century later, Bracken Post 382 remains the proud sponsor of our corps.

Bristol's Bracken American Legion Cadet Junior Drum and Bugle Corps promotes an appreciation of music through a historical looking glass, and embraces the musical talents of its members, while cultivating confidence and self-development among its participants.

Bristol's Bracken Cadets have flourished over the last century and have brought joy and entertainment through hosting concerts and festivals and even achieved numerous State Championships and Eastern States Titles.

The renowned Bracken Cadets were in high demand for parades and exhibitions and performed in prestigious venues, including Madison Square Garden in 1970. They charmed audiences across the Philadelphia region with their performances from the 1950s to the 1970s in parades and have since transitioned from marching to performing on a flatbed float in a concert-style format.

In 1981, during Bristol's 300th anniversary, corps alumni proudly paraded through the streets to the delight of the townspeople. In 2004, a grand 80th Anniversary Celebration reunited former members in Bristol. They performed the National Anthem to open Historic Bristol Day and enjoyed a memorable reunion

dinner and other corps activities. In 2005, an Alumni corps was established and remains active to this day. However, it is set to conclude after their final performance on Saturday, October 19th, 2024, at the All-Fresh Market on Pond St., Bristol (Historic Bristol Day).

A mural commemorating their legacy will be dedicated during the event. The day will culminate with a celebration dinner at Georgine's and a farewell breakfast at the Golden Eagle Diner on Sunday morning at 11 a.m.

We are incredibly grateful for all that Bristol's Bracken American Legion Cadet Junior Drum and Bugle Corps has done for our community, and we proudly pay tribute to an amazing 100 years.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize outstanding constituents from my district, Richard and Bernadette Kringe, as we celebrate their golden wedding anniversary.

Richard Kringe and Bernadette Kringe were married on September 14, 1974 in Philadelphia, PA and soon moved to Croydon, PA where they have lived ever since. Rich recently retired from a life-long career as a plumber, and Bern was a school bus driver for many years: gaining the moniker ``Driver.''

They raised two sons, Rich and Bob, and instilled in them the importance of family. They are also the proud grandparents of RJ, Dennis, and Jack.

Congratulations to Rich and Bern on their golden milestone anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable constituent, Betty Stout of Pennswood Village in Newtown. Betty was born on September 30, 1923, in Trenton. N.J., and is now turning 101.

Betty was known during her childhood in Trenton as the ``The Little Mother of Rutherford Avenue,'' because of the long hours she spent caring for her younger brother, Gary. Her father worked even longer hours, leading a band, playing the organ in local movie theaters, and delivering newspapers before the crack of dawn.

After graduating from Trenton High, Betty worked for the Trenton Banking Company. She married Ralph Stout, who also worked there, in 1947. Ralph had a liberating effect on her life, mainly by encouraging her do many of the things she had not been able to do as a child. They were wonderful dancers and excelled at bridge. Betty learned to swim and play golf, a sport that gave her great pleasure until she was 90. She was an active member of the Hopewell Valley Golf Club for 50 years. One of her grandchildren jokes she even looked down on the 9-holers.

Betty was a member of Ewing Presbyterian Church for many years before joining Lawrenceville Presbyterian Church. She now attends services at Pennswood. She volunteered with the Children's Committee of Mercer Hospital. Betty is adored by her three children, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. At her 100th birthday party, one of the grandchildren described her as the hub of the family's wheel. At the age of 94, she served as the celebrant at another grandchild's wedding.

At Pennswood, Betty is surrounded by loving friends and staff. To be her friend or a spoke on her family's wheel is a rare, and always rewarding privilege. To be on the Pennswood staff is often to become her friend. Her capacity for friendship is matched by her passion for setting wrongs right. Happy Birthday, Betty.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional constituent from my district, Joseph D'Emidio. Throughout his life, Joseph has embodied a selfless and fearless spirit, resulting in a life rich in stories and memories. I commend Joseph for his service to our country and thank him for his great sacrifices and honorable legacy. As he celebrates his 100th birthday on September 28, 2024, I would like to recognize Joseph and wish happiness for him and his family.

Joseph was born in Bristol Borough to Italian immigrants Gabriel and Lena (Vattimo) D'Emidio on September 28, 1924. He attended schools in Bristol Borough but quit school at age 16 to work to help support the family. One of those jobs was at the historic Fleetwing factory in Bristol Borough. He stopped working to pursue training in linoleum installation. At age 19, before he could be drafted for World War II, Joseph enlisted in the United States Navy, following the footsteps of his older brother Benjamin. He attended boot camp then trained for Landing Ship Tanks (LSTs).

He was then sent to England on an LST. He was subsequently joined by his brother Arthur, who also served on the LSTs. He ultimately participated in the D-Day Operation in Normandy on an LST. He was also involved in backing up forces for the Battle of the Bulge. His brother Carl served in the United States Coast Guard. On discharge from the Navy at the end of the war, Joseph returned to Bristol Borough to marry and start a family.

He was an original owner in the Winder Village section of Bristol Township. While living in Winder Village, Joseph and his friends became the Founding Members of Third District Fire Company. He served as its first Captain. He trained in kitchen customizing, returning to Bristol Borough to open a business on Mill Street called Cameo Kitchens. He has been active in the Lions Club for over 57 years.

He raised three children in Bristol: Joseph, Dyan and David, with his wife Theresa. Joseph and Theresa shared a love of family and Square Dancing. He is currently still living in Bristol, now married to his second wife, Jeanne. Joseph is a communicant at St. Ann's Church. He enjoys woodworking at the Bristol Borough Senior Citizen Center. Joseph likes his visits to Parx Casino and is a voracious reader.

His blended family is so very proud that Joseph has reached this milestone in his life. Our nation owes Joseph a debt that can never be repaid. We wish Joseph countless blessings and I remain deeply appreciative to Joseph D'Emidio for his life of service and sacrifice for our community, district, and country. His commitment to his fellow neighbors, veterans, and service members alike is a testament to his character and spirit. I am more than honored to recognize him today and wish him nothing but the best for his 100th birthday and the future beyond.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the vital contributions of nephrology nurses and address the profound impact Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) has on the Greater Philadelphia Community. Nephrology nurses are critical to the support and care of patients who suffer with CKD and often go above and beyond to meet their patients' needs. Recognizing their critical work, I am proud to support the designation of September 8-14, 2024, as National Nephrology Nurses Week.

CKD statistics are staggering: about 1 in 7 Americans are affected by chronic kidney disease, over 1.8 million people in Pennsylvania alone. We must provide the necessary education and care to this vulnerable population and their families and recognize the significance of the nurses who practice in all areas of nephrology.

Nephrology nurses practice in countless different areas as they care for patients with CKD, such as inpatient (hospital) and outpatient hemodialysis, transplantation, home therapy, pediatric dialysis, and CKD education. Nephrology nurses' responsibilities include care coordination, outcome management, supervision and delegation, patient- centered

care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and focused, one-on-one teaching of patients, their families, and their support systems.

I call upon all members of our community to join me in celebrating the strength, courage, and dedication of nephrology nurses. Let us honor those who care for this patient population in the Greater Philadelphia area and reaffirm our commitment to supporting these dedicated nurses.

Congress should also support the designation of September 8-14, 2024, as National Nephrology Nurses Week. Together, let us acknowledge the role of these nurses in our community regarding the care and support of those with CKD.

I encourage all individuals to learn more about chronic kidney disease and the impact it has on our health system and our population in Pennsylvania, as well as celebrate the invaluable impact made by nephrology nurses.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. William Coleman, a veteran of the U.S. Navy and a remarkable constituent of my district as he celebrates the 105th year of his birth.

Dr. Coleman was born and raised on his parents' farm outside of Lawrenceville, NJ. He is an alumnus of Princeton University, where he competed on the track and field team as a freshman. He then attended Temple School of Medicine, interning at Philadelphia General Hospital, and completing his surgical residency at Abington Hospital.

While attending medical school, he entered the U.S. Navy in 1943 under the V-16 program. He served 2 years of active duty at the Veteran's Hospital in Lyon, NJ.

After leaving the Navy, Dr. Coleman opened a general practice in Trenton, NJ. He and his wife, Betty, lived in Morrisville and then Yardley, where they raised their 5 children. Betty and Dr. Coleman were married for 56 years until she sadly passed away in 2007.

Dr. Coleman went from running a surgical practice to a general practice. After practicing surgery for 20 years, he took a position at Meadow Lakes, in New Jersey working for another 20 years as a physician and medical director until his retirement.

Dr. Coleman moved to the community of Pennswood Village in Newtown, PA where he currently resides and is loved and admired by all who know him.

As we celebrate Dr. Coleman's 105 years of life, we are incredibly grateful for the many positive impacts he has made. We want to thank him for his devoted service to our Country and we heartily wish Dr. Coleman continued joy and God's blessings for the future.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commemorate Doylestown Police Chief Dean Logan, after faithfully serving and protecting the residents of Doylestown for the past thirty-seven years.

Chief Logan began his career in 1987 as a patrolman. His hard work and unwavering dedication quickly propelled him through the ranks. Just four years later, Officer Logan became Detective Logan, a role in which he served for 12 years, solving numerous cases and delivering justice to the community he cared so deeply about. His excellence and leadership were undeniable, and he soon moved up again, this time to Sergeant. After just two years in that role, he became a Lieutenant-- a position he held for seven years. It was during this period that he attended and graduated from Session 226 of the FBI National Academy, a prestigious milestone in his career.

Chief Logan's ascent did not stop there. In 2012, after many years of dedicated service, he took on the role of Chief, a position in which he served the people of Doylestown Township with courage and distinction.

During his tenure as Chief, he led a team of over 20 officers and civilian staff and managed an annual budget exceeding three million dollars. His leadership and forward-thinking approach left a lasting impact on the community, particularly through his contributions to modernizing and improving policing practices. Under his guidance, the department embraced the use of social media, implemented In-Car and Body-Worn Camera systems, and established a Motor Patrol Unit. Chief Logan also prioritized the continued education and training of his officers, ensuring they were equipped with advanced skills in traffic enforcement, criminal investigations, and command-level leadership.

Chief Logan's service extended beyond the Doylestown Township Police Department. He was a dedicated member of the Bucks County Chiefs of Police Association and the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association. His leadership also played a key role in the construction of the new Township Administration Building and Police Station in 2018, as part of the Doylestown Township Building Committee.

Chief Logan has spent his life and career protecting and serving the public. His commitment, vision, and integrity embody the very best of law enforcement, and his impact on this community will be felt for years to come. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors and express our deep gratitude for his service to the Doylestown Township Police Department. Mr. Speaker, I ask that we remember Chief A. Dean Logan for his remarkable service, his commitment to others, and the indelible mark he has left on all who had the privilege to know him.

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the gentlewoman for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 2861, the bipartisan, bicameral legislation to award the incomparable and indomitable Billie Jean King, a legendary athlete, ardent advocate, and a trailblazing icon, the Congressional Gold Medal.

Mr. Speaker, last March, I proudly introduced this legislation, which has received overwhelming bipartisan support, standing at just under 300 cosponsors, a remarkable feat in and of itself.

At just 11 years old, Billie Jean set her sights on becoming the greatest tennis player the world has ever seen. Mr. Speaker, she did just that and more.

Billie Jean became a force on the tennis court and a transformative champion for equality, charting new paths for all athletes and spearheading the fight for gender equality in sports and beyond.

Beyond her extraordinary collection of trophies and 39 Grand Slam titles, Billie Jean King leveraged her remarkable achievements and prominent platform to catalyze a seismic shift in the women's movement.

Mr. Speaker, she didn't simply raise the profile of women's tennis-- she redefined its very foundation. Through her fearless defiance of the status quo, her staunch advocacy for Title IX and pay equality, and her visionary efforts to expand opportunities for girls and women in sports, Billie Jean's impact has been transformative, and her legacy of advocacy stands unmatched.

Mr. Speaker, this Friday will mark the 51st anniversary of the historic iconic Battle of the Sexes match where Billie Jean triumphantly defeated Bobby Riggs in front of tens of millions of people across America and across the globe, including my own mom who was pregnant with me at the time.

Billie Jean shattered the false narrative of women's inequality, proving that women can not only compete at the highest level, they can dominate at the highest level.

That iconic victory ignited a seismic shift in women's sports, sparking a revolution that empowered generations of women to demand their rights and seek equality in every sphere of life.

Now, five decades later, Billie Jean stands once more at the brink of yet another groundbreaking and trailblazing accomplishment.

Mr. Speaker, the Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor this legislative body, the United States Congress, can bestow. It is awarded to those who have profoundly impacted our Nation's history. Past recipients include influential athletes like Roberto Clemente and Arnold Palmer.

Mr. Speaker, with the passage today of S. 2861, the indomitable Billie Jean will become the first female athlete ever in United States' history to receive this prestigious and well-deserved honor.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to my partners in the Senate, Senators Gillibrand and Capito, and our House colleagues as well, Representatives Sherrill and Malliotakis, for their incredible work, doing the hard work of garnering cosponsors on this floor day in and day out for many months.

I thank the U.S. Tennis Association for their support and tireless dedication to preserving and celebrating Billie Jean King's legacy.

Mr. Speaker, it is time to enshrine Billie Jean King's legacy as not only a champion of tennis but a champion of equality whose impact will continue to inspire women and girls and people across America and across the world.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to support this measure.

Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to rise in recognition of the distinct achievements and serviceable contributions of 103d Attack Squadron on the occasion of their 100th anniversary. For a century, the men and women of the 103d Attack Squadron have served our nation with distinction, dedication, resilience, and valor. As the oldest flying squadron in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and one of 29 original National Guard observations squadrons, their contributions to our national defense are immeasurable and their legacy is one of innovation, excellence and steadfast bravery.

The 103d Attack Squadron traces its lineage back to its formation in June 1924. Federally recognized as the 103d Observation Squadron and commanded by Major Charles Biddle, the 103d has been an integral part of American military history, participating in nearly every global conflict since World War II. The 103d flew a variety of training and observation aircraft until 1941 when the unit was ordered to active service, performing anti-submarine patrols along the New England coast. From 1943 through the end of World War II, the 103d flew photo reconnaissance missions in the F-5C in the China-Burma-India Theater.

From the end of World War II, the 103d was redesignated over ten times and has operated continually since its inception. This unit has gallantly conducted aerial missions and continually maintained operational mission readiness in the following capacities: as a bombardment squadron, a reconnaissance squadron, a military airlift squadron, a tactical air support squadron, a fighter squadron and, finally in its current role, as an attack squadron. The men and women of the 103d Attack Squadron have skillfully operated over twenty distinctly different aircraft, providing over a century of global strike and air superiority capabilities for joint force operations in austere areas, worldwide. Their continual adaptation to the war- fighting environment is a true testament to the resiliency, adaptability, and reliability of the men and women of this storied unit.

Their unwavering dedication to duty and willingness to innovate to meet the needs of the ever-changing battlefIeld landscape is no better demonstrated than in their most recent transition from manned aircraft to unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The professionals of the 103d Attack Squadron employ the General Atomics MQ-9 in combat air patrols that directly support combatant commanders across the globe providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance gathering capabilities, combat search and rescue, and precision weapons employment in close air support operations. The 103d Attack Squadron is critical to the development and implementation of tactics, techniques and procedures used across the globe in MQ-9 missions.

Throughout its long history, the 103d Attack Squadron has embodied the core values of the United States Air Force: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. They have safeguarded the nation's skies, provided critical support in times of war, and stood ready to respond when called upon. Their aircrew and superior operational support personnel have been, and continue to be, some of the most skilled and dedicated Airmen in the world.

As we celebrate this historic milestone, it is my distinct honor to celebrate those who have faithfully served in the 103d Attack Squadron over the past century. Their sacrifices and those of their families have ensured our freedom and security. It is with deep gratitude that we acknowledge their service and pay tribute to their bravery.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commemorating the 100th anniversary of the 103d Attack Squadron and in extending a heartfelt thank you to the men and women who have served, and continue to serve, in this distinguished unit. May the next 100 years of Airmen serve with the same valor, honor, dignity, and dedication to duty as the exemplary men and women of the 103d Attack Squadron have so expertly demonstrated over the last century of service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and remember an outstanding constituent from my district who recently passed away; Bishop D.C. Thomas. Bishop Thomas was born and raised in nearby Trenton, New Jersey, and worked tirelessly to positively impact his community for his entire life.

In 1985, Bishop Thomas developed an afterschool program to help elementary and middle school students in Trenton. But his efforts to assist Trenton's younger population did not stop there. Bishop Thomas also started a youth summer camp, which not only provided the children of Trenton with summer activities, but it also ensured that every attendee would be properly fed. Later, Bishop Thomas started a food delivery program that helped families in need. This mobile kitchen provided families throughout Trenton with consistent access to hot meals.

Perhaps Bishop Thomas's most impressive accomplishment is the Christian Home Better Life Development Center. This center began as an unhabitable home, but through his tireless work, was transformed into a rehabilitation center. Without any subsidies or grants, Bishop Thomas helped over 300 individuals battling drug and alcohol addictions by working to turn their lives around. Today many individuals who once passed through its doors are employed and married with families.

We are eternally grateful for the work that Bishop D.C. Thomas has demonstrated throughout his life and our community is a better place because of his extraordinary service. May he rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional constituent from my district, Joseph DeMarco. Throughout his life, Joe has embodied a selfless and fearless spirit, resulting in a life rich in stories and memories. I commend Joe for his service to our country and thank him for his great sacrifices and honorable legacy. As he celebrates his 100th birthday, I would like to recognize Joe and wish happiness for him and his family.

A Pennsylvania native, Joe was born and raised in South Philadelphia and still considers it to be ``The best place around''. A born fighter, Joe picked up boxing at a young age, facing the world without fear. He embodied this spirit in every aspect of his life, and following the attack on Pearl Harbor, decided without hesitation to serve his country. Remarkably, Joe was still only 17, meaning he had to forge his parents' signatures to join the United States Marine Corps. Joe began Boot Camp at Camp Lejeune, but his training was cut short after his father found him and made him come home. Unfettered in his mission, Joe re-enlisted 6 months later when he turned 18. He went back to Camp Lejeune and completed boot camp. Joe excelled in the Marines--his lifelong love of fighting served him well in the Marines. Growing up boxing taught him to never back down from a fight, a lesson he carried boldly throughout his time in active duty.

At the start of his service, Joe was sent aboard a ship originally headed for Guadalcanal. However, the ship was redirected to the Panama Canal out of fear of an Axis attack on the horizon. While in Panama, Joe was stationed on watch duty, where he had a remarkably close encounter during a Japanese ambush. This ambush killed a Marine who was on his previous post, a solemn reminder of the danger constantly lurking in the seas. After Panama, Joe was sent to Texas. Once a few years passed, he once again boarded a ship to go to Guadalcanal, but was suddenly redirected back to Panama, on the same track as his first ship years before. Joe stayed in Panama for about another year, serving his country honorably. Despite the discipline and service Joe embodied daily, he never lost his youthful spirit from his days in South Philly. Joe remembers how in Marine Corps, his Sergeant would catch him shooting dice and make him clean the entire barracks with a toothbrush.

Upon returning home to South Philadelphia, Joe worked as a presser in a tailor shop, relishing trips to Atlantic City and attending weekly dances with friends. It was at one of these dances that he met his wife, with whom he raised two daughters and a son. His family faced hardships, including the early passing of his son and daughter. Joe is currently survived by his daughter Paula.

He worked in the garment manufacturing industry for many years. He also worked selling beer at the Phillies games and worked as a waiter at night. He loves Phillies sports, especially baseball and football. He enjoys trips to Atlantic City to play craps, and he loves to gamble (for better or worse). He also loves the classic crooners, with the greats like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Nat King Cole constantly on play.

I remain deeply appreciative to Joe DeMarco for his life of service and sacrifice for our community, district, and country. His commitment to his fellow neighbors, veterans, and service members alike is a testament to his character and spirit. I am more than honored to recognize him today and wish him nothing but the best for his 100th birthday and the future beyond.