Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today, I want to recognize and pay tribute to Captain Kyleane Hunter, of the United States Marine Corps. I, and many other Members of this chamber, have had the great pleasure of working with Captain Hunter over the past year that she has served as part of Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs Liaison Office in the House of Representatives. She will soon be leaving the liaison office and looking toward new challenges ahead.

Captain Hunter diligently and professionally represented the Marine Corps on all matters in the House of Representatives from September 2009 to April 2012. Throughout this period, Captain Hunter advised and assisted in the execution of many of the Marine Corps' most difficult and challenging legislative initiatives and distinguished herself as a leader and standard bearer of Marine Corps values and skills. Through her direct and skillful interaction with numerous Members of Congress, she ensured that Marine Corps' concepts, programs, and requirements were widely understood; ensuring the greatest possible support

to the Marine Corps. Her initiative, leadership, and tireless efforts as a USMC Military Fellow and as the Operations Officer of the House Liaison Office have had a direct and lasting impact on improving the war fighting capabilities and the quality of life for Marines throughout the Marine Corps.

Throughout her time, Captain Hunter personally supervised and responded to hundreds of inquiries, many of which gained national level attention. Through her exceptional inter-personal skills and broad knowledge in a wide range of military affairs, she assisted the Director, Marine Corps Liaison Office, in gaining the Members' support and trust in critical issues. This served to provide the Marine Corps latitude and time to reach appropriate solutions in each case. Captain Hunter directly contributed to the Marine Corps' high degree of success in these matters that may not have been otherwise achieved.

Captain Hunter successfully planned, coordinated, and escorted an extensive number of international and domestic trips for high-level Congressional and Staff Delegations. These delegations often included senior leadership Representatives, such as the Chairman or Ranking Member of the major Defense Committees. These delegations visited heads of state, military commands, and deployed U.S. military personnel worldwide. Her attention to detail and anticipation of requirements allowed the Representatives and staff personnel to focus on fact- finding and learning new information to guide critical decisions to support the people of the United States. These trips led to an understanding of the successes and challenges facing our Marines that could only be gleaned from first-hand observation and face-to-face interaction.

Captain Hunter also assisted in the planning, coordination, and execution of countless events, receptions, and meetings on Capitol Hill. These events included New Member Orientation for the Freshman Congressional Class of the 112th Congress on Capitol Hill and in Williamsburg, Virginia; The House of Representative Marine Corps Birthday Cake Cutting Ceremonies, Multiple House Armed Services and House Democracy Partnership events, Promotion Ceremonies, Awards Ceremonies, and tours of the Capitol. She also scheduled and supported a great many office calls for the leadership of the Marine Corps to include Commandants of the Marine Corps, Assistant Commandants of the Marine Corps, and numerous other General Officers conducting business on Capitol Hill.

Through her exceptional personal efforts, Captain Hunter has contributed immeasurably to the Marine Corps' professional reputation throughout Capitol Hill. The rapport she developed with Members of the House of Representatives and the Professional Staff Members has in large part helped to ensure the strength and vitality of the Navy/ Marine Corps team for years to come. Her exceptional performance as a USMC Congressional Fellow and Operations Officer of the House Liaison Office has made a lasting impact on the readiness and welfare of the Marine Corps, and as such, I thank her for her steadfast dedication to the Marines and our country.

From one Marine to another, I can unequivocally state that Captain Hunter is a testament to the Marine Corps' commitment to excellence. On behalf of my colleagues; we thank Captain Hunter and wish her the very best of luck in future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and recognize James Richards of Jamul. James was named the recipient of the 2012 Military Child of the Year Award, which honors military children who stand out among others in their community.

The candidates must demonstrate good character, and excel within both military and civilian communities. James embodies all of the qualities and more.

Each year, more than 1,000 nominees are considered for this award. The recipient is chosen by a committee including those currently in the military, Family Readiness Support Assistants, teachers and others. After choosing the winner, the award is given to one military child from each branch of service.

Anyone who knows James is aware that he is extremely involved in his community. He started a blog to help deal with members of his family being deployed. Currently 87 military children follow his blog daily. James also started the anti-bully committee at his school, which meets once a week to discuss ways to prevent bullying in schools.

James is one American who is making a difference by lending a helping hand to others. Last year, James volunteered over 200 hours during Christmas season at the USO collecting toys for less fortunate children and wrapping stockings to send to the troops. After

collecting gifts he would assist with babysitting for those parents while they picked out gifts.

I cannot say enough about James. He is a truly admirable young leader. Without question, he is setting a good example and is a role model to others. I want to thank James for his continual dedication and congratulate him on the Military Child of the Year Award.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing James Richards and wishing him continued success in all future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, it's an absolute privilege that I rise today to pay tribute to Dr. Jeffrey Leonard Marxen, who died at the age of 60 on Thursday, February 23, 2012.

Dr. Marxen was a dedicated, loving father, and renowned orthopedic surgeon. After graduating from college and completing his residency at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, he moved to San Diego to begin his orthopedic practice. He specialized in replacement and reconstruction of the knee, hip and shoulders.

Anyone who knew Dr. Marxen is aware that he was an extremely respected and accomplished surgeon who took great satisfaction in forming lifelong relationships with his patients over the course of his 32-year practice. He was president of the San Diego chapter of the Western Orthopedic Association and held numerous leadership positions within Sharp Grossmont Hospital in La Mesa, California.

Dr. Marxen was interested in community service, sports and pursuing his passion and love for music. He loved playing in evening sports leagues, including softball and tennis, within the community. In addition he was an avid fan of the Chargers, Padres and Aztec Basketball. Along with sports, he enjoyed playing the coronet and the trumpet with the Acme Rhythm and Blues band, which performed all over venues in the San Diego area.

My condolences go to Dr. Marxen's wife and best friend, Dr. Annette Conway Marxen; his children, Philip, Jeffrey Christopher and Marissa.

Dr. Marxen was truly an inspiration to the San Diego community. I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize such a great American and I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Dr. Jeffrey Marxen.

I thank the gentleman from Ohio for yielding and for his service as a veteran and for what he has done for this country. I also thank the gentleman from the Northern Mariana Islands.

One of the most common ways that this Nation honors its military and war dead is with monuments and memorials. Across the Nation, from Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego to Arlington National Cemetery, there are countless markers paying tribute to America's war heroes and the brave men and women who never came home. In many cases, these markers display symbols of religion and personal faith-- representing not just individuals, but the shared commitment and sacrifice of those who serve and those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect others and us here at home.

I'm reminded of headstones at Arlington National Cemetery or images of Normandy where symbols of personal faith and religion are prominently displayed. And even then, these symbols never overshadow the purpose and message of honoring our military and veterans.

Now this time-honored tradition is under attack. Civil liberty groups have taken offense to the presence of religious symbols on war memorials. They are going after a cross sitting atop a hill at Camp Pendleton in San Diego. It's not an official site sanctioned by the Marine Corps or the Federal Government, and the cross can't even be seen by the public. But groups are pushing the Marine Corps to remove the cross from Camp Pendleton even when the base is contributing much of the manpower to the fight in Afghanistan and more recently Iraq.

The Mt. Soledad Veterans Memorial in San Diego is also a cause for their outrage. The memorial, first erected to honor veterans of the Korean war, displaying a 29-foot concrete cross, is now under the full ownership of the Department of Defense. At the base of the cross are more than 3,000 plaques with images and statements paying tribute to the veterans of all wars and religions. Last year, the runaway Ninth Circuit Court ruled that the memorial is unconstitutional, overturning a lower-court ruling.

The future of the Mt. Soledad Veterans Memorial is uncertain, even though the memorial, for all its years as a fixture of the San Diego community, had one stated purpose: to remember those who have fought and died for this Nation. H.R. 290 ensures Mt. Soledad and any other war memorial will withstand these attacks by allowing the inclusion of all symbols of religion and personal faith on war memorials established and under control of the Federal Government.

For the 131 national cemeteries under the purview of the Department of Veterans Affairs, there are currently 48 emblems, I believe, authorized. There is no preference for one symbol over another--the way that things should be. In the face of persistent legal challenges and the threat of more to come, it's important that we install the right protection for war memorials in Federal law, allowing the spirit and tradition of honoring our Nation's military to continue.

I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my opposition to the U.S.-Korean Free Trade Agreement (KORUS). Put simply, this agreement is a bad business deal for the United States.

KORUS is an example of an agreement that stands to benefit certain industries at the expense of others. For instance, the Obama administration went to great lengths to include special provisions to ensure that our auto manufacturers have equal access to South Korean markets. While the economic fairness may help, the effect is likely to be minimal. Currently, over 95 percent of South Koreans drive South Korean cars. Because of this, I have serious concerns about the realistic ability of our auto industry to succeed in a reluctant Korean market.

In addition to my concerns with the feasibility of success for the auto industry in South Korea, it is widely acknowledged that textile workers will lose out because of the deal. The Economic Policy Institute estimates that 159,000 American manufacturing jobs will be lost, and because of the administration's failure to address textile issues, it is estimated that 40,000 textile jobs will be lost. I have always said that 1 job lost as a result of free trade is too much.

Perhaps most troubling about KORUS-FTA is the unintended economic boost it will give to China, currently South Korea's largest trading partner. Rules of origin provisions in the agreement are set far too low so that only 35 percent, less than half, of a product has to come from either South Korea or the United States.

Because such a small portion of a product must come from South Korea in order for it to ensure duty-free access to the United States, the majority of supplies can come from neighboring countries in Southeast Asia, such as China, or even other foreign trading partners, such as the European Union with which South Korea recently entered into a free trade agreement. The United States currently has a $273 billion trade deficit with China, and we should not be in the business of helping China increase their exports with special access to our market.

Proponents argue that new, stronger customs provisions in the agreement prevent the transshipment of goods from China or other countries through South Korea. However, the fact of the matter is that these provisions are modeled off NAFTA, which stands as an example of failed free trade. U.S. Customs data shows that fraud has increased as a result of NAFTA, and there has been a decreased ability to intercept or deter illegal activity. These same failed policies should not be replicated in a new agreement.

We need to look no further than our previous free trade agreements to see the effects of these deals. In the 17 years since NAFTA, our trade balance with Mexico has gone from a $1.4 billion surplus in 1994 to a $97.2 billion deficit in 2010. South Korea is currently the seventh- largest trading partner of the United States, and the United States is South Korea's third-largest trading partner. Therefore, any agreement is sure to have significant effects on the U.S. economy and trade balance.

Mr. Speaker, I feel that this agreement includes too many loopholes, carries too many unintended benefits for foreign competitors, and will result in U.S. job loss.

Madam Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Madam Chair, my amendment is pretty simple. It requests that the Director of National Intelligence and the Secretary of Defense, 120 days after the passage of this bill, submit a plan and execute the plan to develop a coordinated strategy between our intelligence communities and our Department of Defense to go after IED manufacturers and IED transporters between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The majority of improvised explosive devices in Afghanistan come from Pakistan. We know where a lot of those IED manufacturers are, but our DOD is not able to execute the strategy of going after those IED manufacturers and the people that transport them across the border on their own. They need the intelligence community and the 16 agencies which make up that community to be on their side.

More than 80 percent of the explosive devices used against our U.S. troops in Afghanistan have homemade explosives as the main charge and are almost exclusively derived from calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer produced in Pakistan. Homemade explosives are also called HMEs.

The vast majority of IED components, including commercial explosives, radio-control triggers, and HME precursors are sourced from and/or transmitted through Pakistan. The continued uncontrolled availability of ammonium nitrate and other HME precursor materials smuggled into Afghanistan from Pakistan is the most significant factor contributing to the Afghan IED problem. Over 70 percent of our casualties in Afghanistan come from these homemade IEDs.

IEDs are also a problem in Pakistan and to the Pakistani people. Since January of 2011, more than 500 people have been killed and over 14,000 people have been injured by IEDs in Pakistan.

The Afghanistan IED threat cannot be defeated without addressing the networks and precursors in Pakistan. To defeat the Pakistan-produced HME-fueled IEDs in Afghanistan, the solution requires integrated efforts and leveraging of the combined authorities, policies, and capabilities of many agencies of our government, coalition partners, and especially the intelligence community.

We need to identify the key facilitators of raw materials supplying the HME pipeline into Afghanistan. We also need to identify specific financial networks and funding streams for these HME networks, as well as identify these key financiers.

That's what my amendment does. It makes the intelligence community and the defense community get together, submit a plan, and execute that plan to work on the same page, because right now there is a severe gap between what the DOD considers its number 1 priority, our defense guys over there, our soldiers and marines on the ground; their number 1 priority is different from the intelligence community's number one priority.

The intelligence community right now goes after high-value targets. They go after the bad guys wherever they may be found, but they need to work together on these IEDs coming over from Pakistan. It's the only way we can defeat them.

With that, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to accept my amendment.

I reserve the balance of my time.

Madam Chair, I yield the balance of my time to the gentleman from Michigan, Chairman Rogers.

I also want to extend my appreciation to Chairman Kline for his leadership and tireless work toward improving the quality of education for America's children, as well as Ranking Member Kildee, my colleague on the subcommittee and full committee, Ranking Member Miller, as well as Jared Polis from Colorado, who is not even on this full committee but was very supportive of this legislation.

Mr. Chairman, the Empowering Parents through Quality Charter Schools Act is a bill that will have a direct impact on our Nation's children. Expanding access to high-performing charter schools has the potential to make a world of difference for students across the Nation simply by adding a much needed layer of choice and competition that is good for the entire school system, not just charters.

Unlike traditional public schools, the charter school model is not limited by a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, these institutions enjoy increased freedom from State and local rules and regulations in exchange for greater accountability.

Also, the flexibility afforded to charter schools allows teachers and school

administrators to adjust schedules and course work to better serve a wide range of students in their individual communities, including disadvantaged students. For example, a Louisiana charter school established in the wake of Hurricane Katrina enrolled many students who had fallen significantly behind other students their age after the disaster forced them to miss a full year of school. Despite these difficult circumstances, dedicated teachers tailored ground-breaking coursework to meet the needs of these students. Student achievement levels soared, and this charter school is now the third most successful high school in New Orleans.

Improved academic achievement in even the most troubled school districts is one reason why charter schools are in such high demand, with more than 400,000 students across the Nation on wait lists. Even so, many States have imposed arbitrary caps on the total number of charter schools permitted as well as the total number of students allowed to attend these schools. These provisions unnecessarily stifle parental choice and keep students trapped in low-performing schools.

Charter schools also have difficulty securing adequate funding. Current law awards funding for the establishment of new charter schools but does not support funds for replication, updates, or improvements. As a result, charter schools with a proven record of high student achievement may be unable to secure funding to replicate their educational model in a new community.

The Empowering Parents through Quality Charter Schools Act will help put an end to these barriers to charter school growth by streamlining and modernizing the Federal Charter Schools Program.

The law will facilitate the ability of States to access funding for the expansion and replication of the best charter schools through the simplification of the Federal grant program. Additionally, the legislation incentivizes charter school development by offering priority grant funding to States that remove arbitrary caps on charter school growth.

Charter schools provide an opportunity for students who might otherwise spend their formative years stuck in subpar classrooms. We cannot allow arbitrary measures or partisan differences to stand in the way of providing all children access to a high quality education. I strongly encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to unite in support of a better future for the Nation's students and vote ``yes'' on the Empowering Parents Through Quality Charter Schools Act.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize a great American hero and the exceptional organization he founded--the Combat Marine Outdoors--which exists to serve our severely wounded Marines, soldiers, airmen, and sailors with unique and extraordinary opportunities to participate in outdoor hunting and fishing excursions. As we all know, behind every great endeavor there is a great personality. In this case, that great personality, that person of extraordinary character, is United States Marine Corps Colonel Alan Orr.

Colonel Orr, while a solid Marine Corps Artillery officer (and in full disclosure my former battalion commander), is a special man whose love for our Marines, sailors and soldiers extends from the front lines of battle to the hospitals where our wounded warriors recover, and most exceptionally, to life past the battlefield. Extending beyond the stifling halls of military hospitals and recovery barracks, Colonel Orr, along with a group of dedicated hunters, ranch owners and patriots, have reinstilled our wounded heroes to the realization that excitement, adventure and Teddy Roosevelt's ``Strenuous Life'' doesn't end with their service wounds.

In 2005, Combat Marine Outdoors founding members Colonel Orr, Rusty Hicks, Master Gunnery Sergeant Arturo Garcia and my father, former Congressman Duncan L. Hunter, visited wounded Marines from the 1st Marine Division at Brooke Army Medical Center. None were strangers to what they saw--they witnessed the full impact of war injuries. But it was their actions that made all the difference. They responded by creating an organization that would not only accelerate the recovery process, but restore hope in our servicemen and women.

In collaboration with thousands of contributors and over 50 ranches, the Combat Marine Outdoors has provided well over 200 wounded veterans from Balboa Hospital to Walter Reed with the opportunity to hunt and fish, often at a once-in-a-lifetime adventure location, such as the Two Dot Ranch and the Y.O. Ranch in Texas. These outdoor experiences on ranches, bays and lakes foster the opportunity to engage in a challenging experience that promotes teamwork and camaraderie. In many cases, these excursions facilitated a turning point in emotional recovery through a challenging experience that helps our wounded military men and women regain confidence through a sense of accomplishment.

A story then: a United States Marine wounded in combat, blinded, with both legs amputated. He sits in Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, waiting to recover and wondering what his future holds. For a weekend, he is taken by Colonel Orr and his band of patriots to an American treasure, the Texas Ranch. In the great outdoors, this blind, double amputee is, amazingly, guided by Colonel Orr and successfully shoots a big game animal. The excitement and feeling of accomplishment and the outdoors is no less real for this Marine for the fact that he cannot see his trophy. He has lived the hunt and is more alive for it.

While many people, myself included, make the effort to show our veterans our appreciation, whether hunting elk in Colorado or deep sea fishing in San Diego, the exceptional few transition good intentions and singular acts of compassion into a systematic execution of true benevolent action. Colonel Orr is the consummate professional, more versed in the art of artillery than any officer I have ever known. But his impact is immeasurable when he takes one of our country's greatest treasures and returns the excitement of ``living life'' to him. That is the beauty of what Colonel Orr has accomplished through Combat Marine Outdoors.

Mr. Speaker, most Americans will never know the pain and discomfort of combat, or what those who bear the scars of war feel when the smoke clears and they return home. But when they do return, what we can do beyond providing the care that restores the highest quality of life and self-reliance is to open doors that give new meaning, encouragement and excitement to those who were willing to sacrifice everything so that we can stay safe. This is what Combat Marine Outdoors is all about.

As a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, I am pleased to support the mission and service of the Combat Marine Outdoors for our wounded service personnel, and I am honored to have served with Colonel Alan Orr, a man who not only epitomizes military discipline, but exudes a steady compassion and love for our young warriors through a life of service above self. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this exceptional organization and the exceptional man who started it.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize someone who has dedicated their entire life to the service of their fellow citizen. This week, Warren H. Savage, Jr. will conclude his term as the Executive Director of the Santee, California Chamber of Commerce; a final chapter in a career that began fifty-five years ago when he first entered public service as a member of the United States Navy.

The Navy only marks the starting point for Warren, whose list of accomplishments is as distinguished as it is long. He served thirty-six years in the Naval Reserve, including four years on active duty, with his final twenty years of service as a commissioned Naval Officer.

Warren also served two states and several localities as a volunteer firefighter and instructor. His leadership roles over the course of his career, whether as a member of the military, a community volunteer or an advocate for the city of Santee, are a testament of selfless devotion.

To know Warren, it's necessary to reflect on his decision to join the Navy. We all know that Americans join the military for one of several reasons. In some cases, the decision is based on the education and benefits that are available. Others choose to serve in the interest of acquiring direction or discipline that might be missing in their lives. Then there are those who serve because they love America and believe in everything it stands it for, which is exactly the type of person Warren is--a selfless patriot who understands that quality leadership and personal sacrifice are what defines this great country.

Warren's contribution doesn't end there. In fact, it's just the beginning of what would be many more years of public service in varying forms, including serving residents in both Virginia and California as a volunteer firefighter. He held positions as Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief in Burke, VA; Deputy Chief and Fire Chief in Annandale, VA, and Battalion Chief and Chief Training Officer for Fairfax County, VA.

Warren also trained his fellow volunteers as a National Fire Protective Association (NFPA) Instructor IV for the Commonwealth of Virginia Office of Fire Programs, and served as a curriculum reviewer and writer for Virginia State Fire programs. He was also an adjunct instructor for the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland, and The Commonwealth of Virginia State Fire Academy.

Warren was instrumental in starting the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Volunteer Section and was a member of the IAFC Accreditation Development Group and served as a member of the Accreditation alpha site and team leader and member of beta site, as well as a peer assessor and team leader at on-site Accreditation of Fire Agencies. He was a contributing author of the Commission on Fire Accreditation International's (CFAI) `` Fire and Emergency Services Self Assessment'' manual as well as its ``Exceeding Customer Expectation'' manual.

Eventually, Warren and his wife Barbara found themselves together in Santee, California, where he would continue his life of dedicated service in both the business and firefighter community.

As Executive Director for the Santee Chamber of Commerce, he has worked diligently to promote good relationships with the City of Santee, the School Department, the Water Authority and businesses in the area. He also serves as a member of California's State Citizen Corps council, a statewide policy board and is the California State Advocate for Fire Corps under Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Warren is also the Chairman of the San Diego County Heartland Paramedic Program County Service Area. He also served on the Community Oriented Policy Committee since January 2008 and the Salary Setting Advisory Committee since January 2009. Warren has been involved with the Santee Collaborative since 1996 and chaired the Santee Redevelopment POC.

Warren's life has been defined by service to his fellow citizen. He might be retiring, but that just means Warren will have even more time to do what he enjoys most: serving others. Call it a new chapter of that selfless pursuit he's shown for so many years.

Mr. Speaker, I wish Warren continued success in everything he does. And I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to such a great American.

I have an amendment at the desk, Madam Chair.

Madam Chair, this amendment is very simple.

The most important assets we have in our United States military are our personnel, the men and women that we move around. They get moved around, they usually don't have a choice of where they move from base to base and camp to camp, and this amendment specifically covers those ladies and men who protect us that have special needs children, those children that would otherwise be covered under the IDEA, the disability act for kids, ensuring them a good education. However, these parents don't always know where they're going.

What this would do would start a pilot program for up to 250 kids to allow them to choose whatever school fits their needs best, whether it's a private school, a charter school or public school, and to see if that helps alleviate some of the pain that the families face as they travel from base to base, as they go overseas to Iraq and Afghanistan, so we can take care of their kids here at home. It's a pilot program.

I would like to say on our side the only issue that we had with this amendment was its funding source. I have spoken to the chairman from California, the chairman of the Armed Services Committee; and we are going to pull the funding source out of DOD and find another funding stream for this in conference.

So with that taken care of, I would like to yield 2 minutes to my good friend from Arizona (Mr. Franks).

I would like to yield 30 seconds to the distinguished gentleman from California and chairman of the Armed Services Committee, Mr. McKeon.

Madam Chair, I would like to inquire how much time is remaining.

Madam Chair, I would like to yield the balance of my time to the gentlelady from Washington (Mrs. McMorris Rodgers).

Madam Chair, I would obviously urge a ``yes'' vote on this amendment and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, today I will introduce the Setting New Priorities in Education Spending Act, the first in a series of proposals to reform education in America.

There is an urgent need to fix what is broken in our Nation's education system. Roughly two-thirds of eighth graders lack basic reading and math skills. Only 70 percent of students graduate high school. Meanwhile, Federal education spending is at an all-time high.

The Department of Education currently administers more than 80 programs tied to K-12 classrooms. Many of these programs are duplicative, several have been deemed inefficient, and others are simply a poor use of taxpayer funds. It is time to trim the fat.

Today, I will introduce legislation that will eliminate, not consolidate and not defund, but eliminate 43 wasteful K-12 education programs. At a time when approximately one-third of American fourth graders can't read, we must concentrate on education initiatives that have a track record of putting the needs of the students first.

I encourage my colleagues to support the Setting New Priorities in Education Spending Act.

Mr. Speaker, every so often, the heroism of America's greatest generation is relived through personal accounts, ceremony and celebration. It was these Americans who lead our nation to victory in Europe and the Pacific during World War II, and then returned home to build an economy and set the gold standard for future generations to not only admire, but to follow.

One of these great Americans, Marine Corps Master Sergeant Frank Mason, is celebrating his 90th birthday, a significant milestone that encompasses a lifetime of service and sacrifice. Frank's story, starting with his childhood and carrying through his career in the Marine Corps, is truly inspiring. And his courage as a prisoner of war following the fall of the Philippines is an example of the same American selflessness and fighting spirit that continues to motivate the men and women of the Marine Corps, and every other American who understands that freedom comes at a cost.

Seeing both an obligation of duty and opportunity in the Marine Corps, Frank enlisted in the Marines in 1937 at 17 years of age. Frank was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment and, after a year in Hawaii, he joined the Battalion in Shanghai, China--0a part of the world that, outside of books and maps, was unfamiliar to most Americans--until the threat of a Japanese attack forced the evacuation of all American troops on November 28, 1941--days before the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Frank's next stop was the Philippines, where the Marines would soon put up a valiant fight against a determined and relentless Japanese enemy committed to fighting until the last man.

The Philippines was a strategic asset for both the U.S. and the Japanese during World War II. And the Island of Corregidor was the culmination of the Japanese campaign for the Philippines. It was on Corregidor that Frank and others, cornered and outnumbered, endured multiple waves of attacks. They held their ground. The fighting intensified until Japanese tanks went into action and stacked the odds against the Marines on the Island.

Many were wounded, and under fear that Japanese landings would continue overnight, General Jonathan Wainright made the decision to surrender.

General Wainright's famous words to President Roosevelt provide a clear window into the conditions facing Marines on Corregidor, saying ``There is a limit of human endurance, and that point has long passed.'' On May 6, 1942, the Corregidor garrison, with two officers sent forward with a white flag, surrendered to the Japanese.

Frank's account of these events aptly reflects the attitude of a Marine rifleman. An attitude, in fact, that reflects the tradition and honor of the Marine Corps to this day. Franks asserts that, ``we never surrendered. We were ordered to stop fighting.''

Frank was put on a ``hell ship'' and transported to japan with other Prisoners of War, where he was starved and nearly worked to death in a nickel and lead mine for over three years. Still, Frank did not lose his spirit or his desire to live. With some incredible fortune and personal resourcefulness, Frank survived. And when most people might say they've done their part and try restoring some normalcy to their lives, Frank made the conscious decision to stay in the Marine Corps. His extraordinary levels of experience, fortitude and resilience, would be needed yet again, this time in Korea.

Less than a decade after the World War II victory parades rolled through America, Frank's next test would come during the Korean War and the historic battle of the Chosin Reservoir--a badge of pride for the Marine Corps, which, once again, faced insurmountable odds against a formidable enemy. Frank showed that the right leadership and experience is invaluable, under even the most difficult and dangerous conditions.

It's impossible to quantify Frank's contribution to the nation, but what's certain is that there are only a few Americans whose experience and sacrifice compare to his. Frank is part of an elite class of Americans who deserve our unending appreciation.

It was Ronald Reagan who famously said, ``Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have made a difference in the world. Marines don't have that problem.'' Mr. Speaker, I believe Frank is an example of the type of Marine President Reagan had in mind. Frank made a difference and we are all thankful for his service.

On the occasion of his 90th birthday, I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Master Sergeant Frank Mason--a true American hero.

Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 204 I am recorded as not voting for H.R. 471, the Scholarships for Opportunity and Results Act. Despite my presence on the floor during the vote on this bill, the electronic voting system erroneously recorded my vote. I ask that the Record reflect my support for H.R. 471, including my vote in favor of this important piece of legislation.

Mr. Speaker, today I recognize and pay tribute to Gunnery Sergeant Darwin Leavell, United States Marine Corps, on the occasion of his transfer from the House liaison office. I, and many other members of this chamber, have had the pleasure of working with Gunnery Sergeant Darwin Leavell over the past two and a half years during his service with Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs and as the Congressional Liaison Staff Non-Commissioned Officer of the U.S.M.C. Liaison Office in the House of Representatives.

Gunnery Sergeant Leavell distinguished himself through exceptional meritorious service while serving as the Staff Non-Commissioned Officer of Legislative Affairs. Every day he served in direct support of not only the Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs but in direct support of every member of Congress, every Marine and every American. His keen abilities in organization, interpersonal relationships, and communication were extremely critical to the successful accomplishment of the Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs' mission. His achievements and ability to get the job done have always been effective and noteworthy.

During his time in the Liaison office, Gunnery Sergeant Leavell was able to develop and execute legislative strategy for the United States Marine Corps that was instrumental in creating a fiscal and policy landscape conducive to training and equipping the nation's most elite fighting force, ensuring their success on the battlefield. He routinely turned broad guidance into action which energized the Office of Legislative Affairs and members of Congress alike. His actions allowed the Marine Corps to engage members of Congress and their staffs, directly facilitating the increased emphasis on improving Congressional relationships.

While leading the House Liaison Office through the extraordinary challenges associated with Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and the ongoing Global War on Terror, he concurrently ensured that a myriad of daily Congressional communications, assignments and events were executed flawlessly. During Gunnery Sergeant Leavell's tour as the Legislative Affairs Staff Non-Commissioned Officer, he accomplished the full spectrum of the Marine Corps' legislative mission. He exemplified the candor and knowledge that we have come to expect from the Marine Corps and he played a key role in maintaining superb relationships between the Marine Corps and the House of Representatives.

Throughout his time here in the House, Gunnery Sergeant Leavell effectively responded to several thousand congressional inquiries, many of which gained national level attention. Gunnery Sergeant Leavell successfully planned, coordinated and escorted over 50 international and domestic Congressional and Staff Delegations. His detailed coordination with foreign government officials, U.S. State Department, and senior military officials ensured that each delegation was conducted professionally. His attention to detail and anticipation of requirements allowed Representatives to focus on fact-finding and gleaning new insights that informed critical decisions to support the people of the United States. He has made lasting contributions to the House of Representatives. I am proud to have had the opportunity to work with Gunnery Sergeant Leavell and I thank him for his devoted service to this great nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a fellow United States Marine, Mr. Richard ``Dick'' Sullivan, who died at the age of 79 on Thursday, February 3, 2011, from complications of lung cancer. Mr. Sullivan was part of a generation of Marines that, still to this day, all Marines continue to uphold as some of the greatest ever to wear a uniform and call themselves leathernecks.

Mr. Sullivan grew up in Colorado Springs, CO, and enlisted in the Marine Corps at 17 years of age. Sergeant Sullivan bravely served his country as a machine gunner in the Korean War, alongside the other Marines of 1st Marine Division, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, George Company. With George Company, Sergeant Sullivan fought in Seoul, Inchon, and the historic Battle of Chosin Reservoir--where Marines faced incredible odds and demonstrated amazing tenacity and grit against a formidable enemy.

Just like many of the Marines that survived the Chosin Reservoir campaign, Mr. Sullivan considers those 17 days of fighting as the most important days of his service to the nation. In the period between November 27th and December 13, 1950, the United National troops, which were nicknamed the Chosin Few under the command of Major General Edward Almond, were surrounded by as many as 100,000 Chinese troops.

Fighting in extremely cold temperatures that reached -35 degrees below Fahrenheit, Sergeant Sullivan engaged the enemy on frozen ground and persevered frostbite, limited supplies and weapon malfunctions. The military historian Patrick K. O'Donnell highlights the valor of George Company in his book ``Give Me Tomorrow,'' by detailing how a small group of Marines, against all odds, made five separate stands against enemy units despite being severely outnumbered.

During a critical point in combat, George Company put together a task force to break through to Haguaru-ri. George Company went down an 11- mile stretch of road, which became a shooting gallery. The Chinese had the high ground and started peppering vehicles with machine guns, bazookas and mortars. Many of their 150 vehicles were destroyed and over half the company was either captured or killed.

Mr. Donnell states in his book that if the task force would not have taken the initiative to advance their position to Haguaru-ri, then the 1st Marine Division would not have been able to consolidate at Chosin Reservoir. There is a good chance the United States would have lost the Korean War.

Thanks to George Company, the 1st Marine Division did consolidate their forces and managed to decimate 10 Chinese infantry divisions in its fighting withdrawal eastward to the North Korean port of Hungnam. The fighting withdrawal of the 1st Marine Division from the Chosin Reservoir is considered one of the greatest moments in the history of the Navy, the Marine Corps and the British Royal Marines.

Mr. Sullivan was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps on August 1, 1952.

Over the next four decades, Mr. Sullivan worked for Ronson Hydraulic Units and Sargent Aerospace. After retirement, Mr. Sullivan was very active in Arizona's Leisure World. He renewed his love of golf playing at Heron Lakes with the men's club on Mondays, the Donut League on Wednesdays, with friends on Thursdays at the Nine Hole, and always played on Saturdays. In the final year of his life, chemotherapy treatments never kept him from indulging in his favorite sport of golf. Even while he served on Leisure World's Architectural Committee for a number of years, his heart was always with other Marines who lived in Leisure World. He was instrumental in keeping the celebration of the United States Marine Corps birthday on November 10th by being involved with an annual dinner, a welcome back party in September and a barbeque at the close of the season in April.

Although he only spent four years in the Marine Corps, his mind and body were always with the United States Marines. He was proud of the fact that wherever he went, he would always meet up with another Marine, giving and receiving the recognizable hello of those who served in the Corps. He is survived by his wife, Sydele E. Milgrim and his sons Rick Sullivan of Mesa, AZ and Stuart Sullivan of Redmond, WA.

Mr. Sullivan is truly an inspiration, embodying the honor and tradition of the Marine Corps and its motto of Semper Fidelis. And I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to such a fine American, who we all owe a debt of gratitude.