Cathy McMorris Rodgers

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Mr. Robert ``Bob'' West, a distinguished veteran, sports official, advocate, and community leader whose life and career exemplify a commitment to restoring the joy of sports through a renewal of good sportsmanship. His tireless efforts have impacted not only his hometown of Spokane Valley, Washington, but also the broader sports community across the Nation.

From the moment his eighth-grade teacher handed him a whistle, Bob West discovered a lifelong passion for officiating at sporting events. For more than thirty-five years, he officiated at national championships in the United States and abroad, earning respect for his fairness, professionalism, and trademark enthusiasm on the field. His animated calls and unwavering integrity became a hallmark of his officiating style, cherished by athletes and fans alike.

Tragically, Mr. West's officiating career was cut short in 1996 when he was assaulted by an athlete while officiating a high school wrestling match, an incident that underscored the growing issue of violence against sports officials. Despite enduring several surgeries and a long recovery, Mr. West transformed his pain into purpose. He became a relentless advocate for referee safety, launching legislative efforts to increase penalties for assaults on sports officials, which culminated in bipartisan support for bills aimed at creating safer environments for referees and athletes alike.

Mr. West also established the website UR-SAFE.org, a vital resource dedicated to educating the public about the importance of sportsmanship and advocating for the protection of sports officials. Through this platform, he has championed respect for those who ensure fair play, reminding us all of the critical role officials play in preserving the integrity of sports.

Beyond his contributions to sports, Mr. West is a proud veteran, having spent twenty years in the military, during which he officiated sports even while deployed overseas. Following his military service, he has continued to dedicate himself to public service in the Spokane area.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Bob West for his extraordinary dedication to restoring the joy of sports and promoting good sportsmanship. His life's work reminds us of the power of respect and integrity, both on the field and in our communltles.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Keirsten Lyons, Director of the Washington State Fallen Heroes Project, a woman whose life's mission exemplifies the enduring power of love and remembrance. Her dedication to her son's memory and to the families of our Nation's Fallen Heroes is a profound testament to the enduring sacrifices made in defense of our freedoms.

Keirsten's journey is one of love, resilience, and a mother's unyielding commitment to ensure her son's sacrifice is never forgotten. On January 1, 2014, her beloved son, Marine Sergeant Jacob Michael Hess, gave his life during a deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Sgt. Hess was a dedicated Marine, a cherished husband, son, brother, and friend who embodied the highest ideals of service and honor. Though her loss is unimaginable, Keirsten has transformed her grief into a powerful force for good, ensuring that the legacy of her son and so many others lives on.

As the Director of the Washington State Fallen Heroes Project, Keirsten has committed herself to a sacred mission, to honor those who raised their hand to serve and made the ultimate sacrifice, to support the families who carry the weight of their loss, and to engage communities in never forgetting the price of freedom. Her work serves as a rallying call to all of us, reminding us that the freedoms we hold dear were secured through unimaginable sacrifices.

Under Keirsten's leadership, the Project has expanded its reach and impact. Events such as the March for the Fallen, Ruck, Run, or Walk have created spaces for families and communities to come together in shared remembrance. For Keirsten, these gatherings are deeply personal. By sharing their stories, families transform grief into connection, ensuring their loved ones remain alive in the hearts of those who learn their stories.

Through initiatives like the Illuminating Courage Memorial and the Heroes Garden, Keirsten has built a legacy of remembrance in the Eastern Washington community that will endure for generations. Her tireless efforts have provided comfort and healing to Gold Star families, creating a community where grief is shared, and the sacrifices of the Fallen are eternally honored. She reminds us that behind every Fallen Hero is a family who has borne the cost of freedom.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States House of Representatives and the citizens of Washington's Fifth Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude to Keirsten Lyons for her extraordinary devotion. May her work continue to remind us that the legacy of a hero does not end on the battlefield--it lives on in the stories we tell, the memories we preserve, and the gratitude we hold.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my trusted adviser and friend, Peter Kielty, who is retiring at the end of this year.

Peter has served the House Energy and Commerce Committee with distinction for 25 years, including currently as general counsel.

Former Chair Fred Upton said: Peter worked as hard as the day is long and is a part of the legacy of its success.

Former Chair Greg Walden said: In a town filled with attention seekers, Peter worked harder than anyone I know to put the committee and its members in the spotlight and never himself. The committee, the Congress, and the country are better off because of Peter Kielty.

I echo those sentiments, but to me, it is his charm, wit, and relentless kindness that will be his lasting legacy for the committee.

I thank Peter for his public service, and I wish him and his wife, Mary, nothing but the best in the next chapter of their lives.

May God bless Peter.