Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable milestone for the island of Guam and for one of the most strategically important pieces of infrastructure in the United States Indo-Pacific territory-- the Guam Waterworks Authority. This year marks the 30th Anniversary of GWA's establishment, and I am proud to bring this occasion to the attention of the United States House of Representatives.

Guam is not just an American island--it is America's forward post in the Pacific. As the westernmost territory of the United States, Guam is home to some of the most significant military installations in the Indo-Pacific region: Andersen Air Force Base, Naval Base Guam, Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, and the headquarters of Joint Region Marianas. The ongoing U.S. military buildup on Guam--one of the largest in the Pacific since World War II--is reshaping the island's strategic landscape and will bring thousands of additional military personnel, families, and civilian workers to our shores in the coming years.

That buildup depends entirely on one thing: water. Clean, reliable, abundant water. And that is precisely what the Guam Waterworks Authority provides.

GWA was established on July 31, 1996, by the Guam Legislature through Public Law 23-119, creating an autonomous, self-supporting public corporation to manage the island's water and wastewater infrastructure. Since commencing operations on February 1, 1997, GWA has served not only the 160,000 residents of Guam but also the United States military installations that depend on GWA's water systems for operational readiness.

The federal government has recognized this reality--and invested accordingly. The Department of Defense provided $55.3 million in August 2016 and an additional $117.9 million in November 2017 through the Office of Economic Adjustment, helping to finance the upgrade of the Northern District Wastewater Treatment Plant to full secondary treatment, completed in August 2022. That upgrade was completed ahead of the opening of Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz--the first new Marine Corps base established since 1952, activated in October 2020, and officially opened in January 2023, located in Dededo and named in honor of Brigadier General Vicente T. ``Ben'' Blaz, Guam's own son and the first person of an ethnic minority to reach general rank in the U.S. Marine Corps. Camp Blaz is home to approximately 1,300 permanently stationed Marines, with another 3,700 rotating through on temporary deployments--all of whom depend on GWA's water and wastewater infrastructure. This partnership--GWA and the United States government working together--is a model of what the One-Guam Initiative represents: the proposition that Guam's security, readiness, and sustainability cannot be separated.

The One-Guam Initiative, formalized through a 2010 memorandum of understanding between GWA and U.S. Naval Facilities Engineering Command, expanded by the 2016 MOU, deepened by the 2022 Memorandum of Agreement for co-management and protection of the Northern Guam Lens Aquifer, and anchored by a 10-year Intergovernmental Support Agreement executed in July 2023 following Typhoon Mawar, is now a cornerstone of Guam's utility strategy and the military's long-term infrastructure planning. Protecting the Northern Guam Lens Aquifer--the primary source of drinking water for northern Guam and the military installations that rely upon it--is both an environmental imperative and a matter of national security.

GWA has not waited for the federal government to solve its challenges. Beginning with an inherited crisis--more than $25 million in accumulated debt and federal lawsuits for water quality violations-- GWA undertook a sustained, twenty-year transformation. It filed its first rate petition in 2004, entered the bond markets in 2005, achieved debt service coverage compliance for the first time in Fiscal Year 2012, and has since built a capital program of $898.8 million for the period 2025 through 2029. The 2025 Interim Water Resources Master Plan calls for approximately $1.892 billion in infrastructure investment through 2037--a commitment that will shape Guam's water security for decades.

The scale of that investment reflects the scale of what Guam is becoming. Camp Blaz is receiving thousands of Marines relocating from Okinawa, Japan--a realignment that is decades in the making that makes Guam the centerpiece of America's forward-deployed Marine presence in the Indo-Pacific. The U.S. military buildup is not just a national security deployment--it is an economic and demographic transformation for our island. GWA is planning and investing now so that Guam's water and wastewater infrastructure will meet not only today's demands but the demands of a larger, more strategically vital Guam for the next generation.

I also want to acknowledge something that often goes unsaid in this chamber: the federal government has an ongoing responsibility to the people of Guam. We are American citizens. We serve in the United States military at extraordinary rates--among the highest per capita of any state or territory. We pay federal taxes. We abide by federal laws and federal environmental mandates. GWA's 2024 Partial Consent Decree with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency commits GWA to a 10-year wastewater collection system improvement program--a federal requirement that comes with a price tag. Congress can and should continue to support Guam's utility infrastructure as part of its broader commitment to the Indo-Pacific strategy and to the constitutional obligation owed to all American citizens, wherever they live.

As GWA celebrates its 30th Anniversary, I include in the Record each of the General Managers who has led this Authority since inception:

Richard A. Quintanilla, Herbert J. Johnston, Jr., Gil

Shinohara, David E.R. Craddick, John Benavente, Dr. Leonard

Olive, Martin L. Roush, Thomas F. Cruz, Mark G. Miller, Greg

P. Cruz, and current General Manager Miguel C. Bordallo.

Their leadership--and the work of every GWA employee--has kept water flowing to the homes, schools, hospitals, and military installations of Guam through typhoons, drought,

pandemic, and the rapid changes that come with being at the forefront of America's Pacific presence.

Mr. Speaker, GWA Year runs from July 31, 2026, through July 31, 2027. February 1, 2027, will mark thirty years of continuous utility operations as a self-supporting public corporation. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring this milestone, recognizing that a stronger GWA means a stronger Guam, and a stronger Guam means a stronger United States in the Pacific.

God bless the people of Guam, and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a woman whose life embodies the values of duty, perseverance, and selfless service-- Sergeant First Class Annkatherine Carlos of the United States Army.

Raised on the island of Guam, Sergeant First Class Carlos has carried the strength and spirit of our island with her throughout a distinguished military career spanning nearly two decades.

In 2006, shortly after graduating from high school, she made the decision to answer our Nation's call by enlisting in the United States Army.

Throughout her military service, Sergeant First Class Carlos has taken on increasingly demanding assignments across the globe. From South Korea to Iraq, from Qatar to Afghanistan, and today serving on the Joint Staff at the Pentagon, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and professionalism in some of our Nation's most critical missions.

With every new assignment came greater responsibility. Whether serving overseas, supporting combat operations, or advising senior military leaders, she has consistently earned the trust of those around her.

She has supported Operations Iraqi Freedom, Operation Inherent Resolve, Operation

Allies Refuge, and Operation Allies Welcome--missions that required courage during some of the most challenging moments facing our Armed Forces. In every role, she has demonstrated the professionalism and resolve that our servicemembers exemplify every day in defense of our Nation.

As a Human Resources professional, her work may often take place behind the scenes, but anyone who has served in uniform understands that mission success depends on the Soldiers who ensure our forces are supported and cared for. Sergeant First Class Carlos has dedicated her career to taking care of America's warfighters, allowing them to focus on accomplishing the mission. It is often said that leaders take care of people first, because people accomplish the mission. Sergeant First Class Carlos has lived that principle throughout her career.

Her remarkable record of achievement reflects that commitment. She has earned two Defense Meritorious Service Medals, five Army Commendation Medals, multiple Joint Service and Army Achievement Medals, a Combat Action Badge, and numerous other decorations recognizing both her leadership and her service in combat and joint operations.

Yet what makes Sergeant First Class Carlos truly exceptional extends beyond the medals she wears.

She has continued to invest in herself through higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Post University and completing Yale University's Connected Leadership certification. She has also completed extensive military professional education throughout her career, demonstrating that true leaders never stop learning and never stop striving to improve.

Leadership is not measured simply by rank or responsibility, but by the willingness to invest in others. Sergeant First Class Carlos has embraced that responsibility throughout her career, mentoring fellow Soldiers and helping pave the way for future generations of women in uniform. Through organizations such as the Women's Veterans Memorial, Sisters-in-Arms, and the Special Operations Spartan Women's Leadership Initiative, she continues to inspire others to lead with purpose. Her influence extends well beyond her own assignments and will continue to be felt through the many servicemembers she has encouraged and mentored.

Behind every Soldier is a family that shares in the sacrifices of military service. Sergeant First Class Carlos is also a devoted mother to her two children, Aliyanah and Tyler. Like so many military families, they have experienced frequent moves, long separations, and the unique challenges that accompany a life of service. Their support has been an essential part of her success, and they deserve our gratitude as well. And of course, no family would be complete without mentioning their beloved dog, Tofu.

For the people of Guam, Sergeant First Class Carlos represents something deeply meaningful. Our island has long answered our Nation's call to serve. Despite our small size, Guam has consistently produced men and women who have answered the call to defend our Nation with unwavering dedication. Across every generation and every branch of service, the people of Guam have proudly worn the uniform, making sacrifices far beyond what many realize. Sergeant First Class Carlos proudly carries on that proud tradition. From the villages of Guam to the Pentagon, she has represented our island with distinction and serves as an inspiration to young people who aspire to wear the uniform and serve something greater than themselves.

On behalf of the people of Guam, I offer our heartfelt gratitude for her faithful service to our Nation. We are immensely proud to call her one of Guam's own, and we thank her for representing our island with honor, integrity, and distinction.

May God continue to bless Sergeant First Class Annkatherine Carlos, her family, the men and women of our Armed Forces, Guam, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 6955, the Main Street Capital Access Act.

When the people of Guam set out to enterprise new business ventures, we turn to our community banks to raise capital. However, much of America's financial system is not designed with small businesses in mind. While big banks have the resources to cut through red tape, small community ventures often struggle to comply with a regulatory regime that never had them in mind.

The Main Street Capital Access Act makes commonsense reform, tailoring regulations so small lenders can comply, while opening more resources to the new banks, small banks, and rural banks which serve communities like Guam. This bill will give the Guam business community a fair chance, and I thank the Financial Services Committee for their work on this legislation.

Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act.

Guam is on the front line of America's national security in the Pacific. This bill delivers nearly $1.9 billion in vital defense investments on the island while ensuring the people of Guam remain a priority.

This legislation secures an extension to the H-2B workforce provision through 2035 to guarantee long-term stability for our local economy.

It sets a target for military commissaries to source at least 15 percent of produce from local farmers, expanded workforce credentialing for our students, and protected local land by removing a proposed military acquisition of over 100 acres.

Guam has carried a tremendous share of our Nation's defense responsibilities for generations.

As the people of Guam continue to serve this country, the passage of this NDAA will, in turn, serve our island.

Mr. Chairman, I urge our colleagues to support the passage of this bipartisan bill.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 82nd anniversary of the liberation of Guam.

On July 21, 1944, American forces returned to Guam and liberated our island after nearly 3 years of Japanese occupation. For the CHamoru people and all who called Guam home, liberation marked the end of a period defined by fear and suffering.

Today, I recognize the special courage of Guam's Greatest Generation. Throughout the occupation, there was one source of strength that united the people: their faith. When families were separated, they prayed. When food was scarce, they prayed. When they faced the uncertainty that tomorrow might never come, they prayed. Prayer became the act of hope.

Many survivors have shared stories of praying the rosary together in secret, gathering quietly with family, and finding strength in Scripture. Those prayers sustained a people who refused to lose their humanity, even during one of the darkest chapters of Guam's history.

These moments served as a powerful reminder that while liberation was won through the ones who fought on the battlefield, many endured through the steadfast faith of those who never gave up hope at home.

The people of Guam continue to carry forward the legacy 82 years later. We continue to pray for lasting peace, the safety of the brave men and women who serve our Nation today, and a world where future generations will never have to endure what Guam experienced during World War II.

Madam Speaker, we commemorate this year's theme: ``Para I Onra, Para I Gloria''; ``For Her Honor, For Her Glory.'' May God continue to watch over our beloved island of Guam and grant us the lasting peace for generations to come.

denouncing ending birthright citizenship for territories

Madam Speaker, I rise today to strongly denounce the End Birthright Citizenship for the Territories Act.

The author of this bill is quick to offer assurances that the bill explicitly carves out protection for the children born to U.S. citizens and permanent residents on Guam who will fully retain their American citizenship.

They present this as a reasonable compromise, a harmless safeguard for our local families. Madam Speaker, do not mistake a patronizing concession for respect. The clause does not ease the fundamental insult of this legislation. It merely exposes its hypocrisy.

By including the very language, this body openly acknowledges that it is attempting to do in the territories what the Supreme Court just ruled it cannot constitutionally do in the 50 States.

It exploits the fact that citizenship in Guam is governed by statute, rather than the full embrace of the 14th Amendment. It creates a dangerous and deeply insulting double standard. It signals to our community that the ground under our feet is a lesser class of American soil.

It says that while the States' borders are structurally protected from Washington legislative whims, the legal fabric of our island cannot be experimented on by Federal mandates.

Our citizenship was not handed to us by casual gift or a line item to be tinkered with. It was forged in the fires of World War II, through the brutality of an enemy occupation where our people suffered, yet never once wavered in their alliance to the United States.

We have repaid that honor by serving the United States Armed Forces where our sons and daughters serve at a rate higher than nearly any jurisdiction in the Nation.

To tell a population that bears a great weight of defending this Republic that Congress can selectively alter birthright citizenship on their soil is a profound sign of disrespect. It treats the sacred bond of our citizenship as a secondary status subject to the political whims of Washington.

We do not ask for constitutional handouts or patronizing exemptions. We ask for equality. We demand that the soil our veterans defended be treated with the exact same constitutional reverence as the 50 States.

Madam Speaker, this bill fails the test of basic respect, and I urge my colleagues reject this double standard and join me in denouncing this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I hereby remove my name as cosponsor of H.R. 1841.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Rey Mora Vega. a distinguished healthcare leader, dedicated public servant, and compassionate member of our island community whose decades of service helped strengthen Guam's healthcare system and improve the lives of countless individuals.

Rey Mora Vega passed away on February 7, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by humility, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Throughout his life, he demonstrated that true leadership is measured not by titles or recognition, but by a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. His steady presence, thoughtful leadership, and compassionate spirit earned him the admiration of all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

A graduate of Cebu College of Medicine in 1983, Rey devoted his professional career to advancing healthcare on Guam. He spent nearly two decades serving at Guam Memorial Hospital, where he held several leadership positions before being appointed Interim Hospital Administrator. During a pivotal time for the hospital, he provided steady leadership and worked tirelessly to improve operations and ensure quality care for the people of Guam.

His dedication to public service continued when he joined the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, now known as the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center. Rey first served as Deputy Director before becoming Director, leading the agency through a critical period of transition while working to strengthen behavioral health services, improve accountability, and expand access to care for individuals and families across our island.

Throughout every chapter of his career, Rey earned the admiration and respect of colleagues, healthcare professionals, government leaders, and patients alike. He approached every challenge with professionalism, compassion, and quiet determination, always placing the needs of others above his own. His leadership was measured not only by the positions he held, but by the trust he inspired and the lives he touched.

Those who knew Rey understood that his greatest strength was not only his professional expertise, but his character. He was known for treating everyone with kindness and respect, listening before speaking, and leading with grace during both moments of progress and times of challenge. His calm demeanor and unwavering sense of duty helped guide institutions through change while never losing sight of the people they were created to serve.

I extend my deepest condolences to loved ones. May they find comfort in knowing that Rey's life was one of purpose, service, and enduring impact. His decades of dedicated service to Guam's healthcare community exemplify the very best of public service, and his legacy of compassion and leadership will continue to inspire generations to come. Though he is no longer with us, the example he set through a lifetime of selfless service will remain an enduring source of inspiration for all who have the privilege of following in his footsteps.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of Chief Stephen C. Ignacio, a son of Guam who dedicated his life to serving and protecting our island.

His passing is not only a profound loss for the Guam Police Department, but for the entire island of Guam.

There are few professions that demand more sacrifice than law enforcement. Police officers willingly place themselves in harm's way so others may live in safety. They miss holidays, birthdays, and precious moments with their families because the call to serve never stops. Chief Ignacio understood that sacrifice because he lived it every day.

Throughout his distinguished career with the Guam Police Department, Chief Ignacio earned the respect of his fellow officers, government leaders, and the community he faithfully served. Rising through the ranks to become chief of police, he led with professionalism, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to protecting the people of Guam.

Under his leadership, the department continued efforts to modernize its operations, strengthen officer training, and build trust with the community. Beyond policies and programs, those who knew Chief Ignacio will remember the person behind the title, a leader who cared deeply about his officers and understood that effective policing begins with service, compassion, and integrity.

The work of a police chief is often thankless. When communities are safe, the long hours and difficult decisions often go unnoticed. Yet when tragedy strikes, it is the chief who bears the weight of responsibility. Chief Ignacio accepted that responsibility with humility and unwavering dedication.

His leadership extended beyond the walls of police headquarters. He understood that public safety is built through partnerships with families, schools, neighborhood organizations, and community leaders. He believed that trust is earned, not demanded, and he worked to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the people they serve.

Today we remember more than a police chief. We remember a husband, a father, a family member, a colleague, a mentor, and a friend. We remember a public servant who devoted his life's work to making Guam a safer place for future generations.

To the men and women of the Guam Police Department: We grieve alongside you. Your department has lost a leader, but the example he set will continue to guide those who wear the badge.

To Chief Ignacio's family: Please know that the people of Guam share in your sorrow. We are grateful that you shared him with our island for so many years. His commitment to public service came with countless sacrifices, and we recognize that your family made those sacrifices alongside him.

As we reflect on his life, may we also remember the values he embodied: duty before self, integrity in leadership, and service to others.

Chief Ignacio answered the call to serve his community for decades. He did so with honor, courage, and a deep sense of responsibility.

His watch has ended, but his legacy will live on in every officer he mentored, every life he helped protect, and every member of our community who is safer because of his service. I extend my deepest condolences to Chief Ignacio's loved ones and the entire Guam Police Department.

To his family: No words can fully ease the pain of losing someone so deeply loved, but I hope you find comfort in knowing that the countless hours he devoted to protecting our community made a lasting difference, and the legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire generations of law enforcement officers who follow in his footsteps.

May God grant his loved ones strength and comfort during this difficult time. May we never forget Chief Stephen Ignacio's years of faithful service, and may he rest in eternal peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to offer my belated birthday greetings to a wonderful citizen of my beautiful home island of Guam: Victorina Dulay Robeniol, who was born more than a century ago on May 14, 1922.

Victorina is a living testament to what it means to live a life of profound purpose, unwavering strength, and deep, unconditional love. Her story began in Pangasinan province in her native Philippines. She was the second of ten children of Caridad and Fabian Dulay. From a very young age Victorina was a caretaker. She embraced the responsibility of helping to raise her younger brothers and sisters while her parents worked to support their growing family.

She was barely twenty years old when the hardships of World War II struck, and following the heartbreaking loss of her father, a young Victorina made a choice that defines her character to this day: she paused her own education and stepped into the fields to work. She chose her family's survival over her own personal ambitions. That selfless love became the foundation of everything she would build.

Victorina began a beautiful new chapter in her life on January 29, 1950, when she married her loving husband Teofilo Robeniol. Their bond and dedication to each other led to a 55-year marriage and three loving sons: Romulo, Ruperto, and Cesar.

It was 60 years ago, in 1966, that Victorina and Teofilo made the bold leap across the ocean to Guam. Like so many immigrants, they arrived with hope and a willingness to work for a better future. Like her time raising her brothers and sisters, Victorina embraced the job of raising her boys while also launching a career in the Guam hotel industry.

But Victorina never settled for being just an employee; she was a visionary who possessed a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. It was a way to provide a little more for her family: she raised and sold livestock, cultivated and sold homegrown produce, and became a beloved, familiar face at the local flea market.

She taught her children--and everyone who knew her--that no honest work is too small, and with grit and creativity, you can build a beautiful life from the ground up.

Her legacy has grown, as that small family that arrived on Guam six decades ago has grown to include four grandchildren and three great- grandchildren.

Even now at 103 years old, Victorina isn't just watching life go by-- She finds joy in the simple, beautiful rhythms of the day: watching the stunning Guam sunsets, keeping up with her favorite Filipino TV shows, and passionately cheering on NBA games.

But above all else, Victorina's heart belongs to her family. Whether reminiscing about the old days in Pangasinan, or simply sitting back and absorbing the laughter of her grandchildren and great- grandchildren, her devotion has never wavered.

Our whole island is so proud of Victorina for the life and contributions she has made in making Guam better. We thank her for showing us how to work hard, how to love fiercely, and how to live fully.

She is truly an inspiration. May God continue to bless her. Cheers to 103 beautiful years.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a remarkable woman whose life reflects the resilience, faith, and strength that have helped shape our island of Guam for generations--Ms. Lucia G. McDonald--as she reaches the extraordinary milestone of her 100th birthday.

Born on November 29, 1926, Lucia has witnessed a century of history and has lived a life marked by perseverance, devotion, and unwavering commitment to family. Reaching one hundred years of age is an incredible accomplishment. Yet what makes this occasion truly special is not simply the number of years she has lived, but the legacy she has built throughout those years.

Ms. McDonald's story is also a story of Guam. As a young girl growing up in pre-war Hagatna, she enjoyed a childhood filled with family, friends, and the simple joys of island life. She fondly remembered walking through the streets of Hagatna with her friends, enjoying the close-knit community that defined Guam before World War II. Her family was preparing for a major move to California, where her stepfather, a member of the United States Navy, had gone ahead to establish a home for them. But history had other plans.

The outbreak of World War II and the Japanese occupation forever altered the course of her life. Like many members of Guam's Greatest Generation, Lucia endured years of hardship, uncertainty, and fear. Her family was forced from their home and sought refuge with relatives in rural areas of the island. They experienced food shortages, violence, and the daily realities of living under occupation. They witnessed the devastation of war and the destruction of the community they once knew. Through it all, Lucia survived. Her experiences stand as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and suffering endured by the people of Guam during one of the darkest chapters in our island's history.

Following the war, she helped build a new life. In 1948, Lucia married Charles Henry Mariano McDonald, and together they built a home and family in Agana Heights. Their marriage would span nearly five decades and be blessed with twelve children. Through the years, their family continued to grow, eventually including 37 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren. Few accomplishments speak more powerfully to a life well lived than generations of family gathered together because of the love and foundation established by a mother and grandmother.

While raising twelve children, Lucia embraced her role as a homemaker. She managed a busy household while helping care for a large farm filled with livestock, crops, and the countless responsibilities that came with supporting a growing family. Yet despite the demands of raising children and maintaining a home, she always found time for family gatherings, community events, and helping others. Friends and relatives knew her as someone who enjoyed bringing people together and celebrating life's special moments.

Faith has always been at the center of Lucia's life. She devoted countless hours to her church and parish community. Whether preparing food for church functions, participating in Christian Mothers activities, leading rosaries, or attending daily Mass, she lived her faith through service. Her family describes her as someone who would carefully prepare herself each day before heading to church, eager to participate and contribute. Even today, despite the challenges that naturally come with age, her love for prayer and worship remains strong. Her family notes that while age may have affected certain abilities, her prayers and church hymns continue to ring out clearly and proudly.

Another remarkable part of Lucia's story is her connection to one of Guam's historic family businesses. Her family traces its roots to the pre-war ``Home Bakery,'' established through the efforts of her parents and relatives, a venture that helped serve the community and would become part of Guam's broader business history. That entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to family, and dedication to community service have continued throughout the generations that followed.

Today, as we recognize Lucia McDonald on her 100th birthday, we celebrate far more than a centennial milestone. We celebrate a World War II survivor, devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, whose life has touched countless people across our island.

On behalf of the people of Guam and the United States House of Representatives, I extend my deepest congratulations to Lucia on reaching this extraordinary milestone. May her story continue to inspire future generations, and may she be blessed with continued health, happiness, and the love of family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor a remarkable public servant whose career has been defined by courage, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others--Mr. Ryan Douglas Pillow--upon his retirement after more than 26 years of combined military and federal civilian service to the United States.

For over two decades, Ryan Pillow has served at Andersen Air Force Base on Guam as a federal firefighter with the Department of the Air Force, ultimately rising to the position of Assistant Fire Chief of Health and Safety.

Before beginning his civilian career, Mr. Pillow proudly served four years in the United States Navy, continuing a lifetime dedicated to serving and protecting our Nation.

Throughout his distinguished career, Ryan Pillow has been entrusted with some of the most challenging and high-risk responsibilities imaginable. As an Incident Commander and emergency response leader, he has overseen operations involving strategic military aircraft, critical infrastructure, and life-threatening emergencies under some of the most demanding conditions.

His operational experience includes leading emergency responses involving B-1 , B-2, and B-52 strategic bombers--some of the most critical assets in our Nation's defense posture. He also led emergency operations involving fighter aircraft incidents, including assisting in the emergency egress of a fighter pilot and managing high-risk airfield emergencies involving F-18 aircraft.

But his service extended far beyond the runway. Mr. Pillow also led life-saving technical rescue operations, including over-the-cliff rescues, structural fire emergencies, and water rescue missions. During major typhoon events impacting Guam, he served as Incident Commander, helping ensure the protection of personnel, mission-essential infrastructure, and critical defense capabilities during some of the island's most dangerous conditions.

And during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, he once again demonstrated steady leadership by helping manage initial emergency response operations aimed at protecting personnel and establishing effective containment measures during an unprecedented national crisis.

These responsibilities required not only technical expertise, but calm under pressure, decisive leadership, and complete trust from the men and women he served alongside. Throughout his career, Ryan Pillow earned that trust time and time again.

In addition to his operational leadership, he played a critical role in strengthening firefighter health and safety programs, improving emergency response readiness, and fostering mutual aid partnerships that enhanced regional emergency response capabilities throughout Guam.

His extraordinary service has been recognized through numerous distinguished honors,

including the Navy Life-Saving Award, the Exemplary Civilian Service Medal, the Air Force Achievement Award, and recognition as Fire Officer of the Year.

But beyond the awards and titles, Mr. Pillow represents something larger. He represents the thousands of military and civilian first responders who work behind the scenes every single day to protect lives, defend critical infrastructure, and ensure mission readiness in one of the most strategically important regions in the world.

The people of Guam understand deeply the importance of those who stand ready in moments of crisis. Whether responding to aircraft emergencies, natural disasters, fires, or national emergencies, professionals like Ryan Pillow provide the steady leadership and courage that keep our communities and our servicemembers safe. His career reflects the very best traditions of public service: duty before self, leadership under pressure, and a lifelong commitment to protecting others.

As he retires after more than 26 years of honorable service, we recognize not only the accomplishments of an exceptional firefighter and leader, but the legacy of a man who dedicated his career to serving something greater than himself.

On behalf of the people of Guam and a grateful Nation, I extend my deepest gratitude to Mr. Ryan Douglas Pillow for his extraordinary service and sacrifice. I also extend appreciation to his family, whose support undoubtedly made this long and distinguished career possible.

We wish Ryan Pillow the very best in this next chapter of life and thank him for the lasting impact he has made on Guam and our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable member of our Guam community, Mr. Frank M. Manangan, who recently celebrated an extraordinary milestone--his 100th birthday.

A century of life is a rare and remarkable achievement. It is a testament not only to longevity, but to a life filled with purpose, perseverance, and dedication to others. Today, we honor Mr. Manangan not simply because he has reached the age of one hundred, but because of the legacy he has built throughout those one hundred years.

Mr. Manangan was born on April 2, 1925, in San Antonio, Zambales, Philippines. Raised in humble surroundings, he learned early in life the values of hard work, discipline, and service. After graduating from high school, he joined the local police force, proudly serving his country and community with honor. Even as a young man, he demonstrated a commitment to helping others and fulfilling responsibilities larger than himself.

Like many who came before him, Mr. Manangan eventually sought new opportunities and a brighter future. He made the journey to Guam carrying with him determination, resilience, and a strong work ethic that would define the rest of his life. He arrived ready to work, ready to provide, and ready to build a future for his family.

Over the years, he contributed to Guam in many ways. He worked as a carpenter, applying his skill and craftsmanship to help build and maintain the community around him. He worked in warehouse operations and later transitioned into data entry. No matter the position, he approached every job with diligence, humility, and pride. His willingness to work hard and adapt throughout different stages of life speaks to the character that has earned him the respect of so many.

But perhaps Mr. Manangan's greatest contribution was the family he helped build.

Together with his beloved wife, he raised ten children. As the sole provider for his family, he worked tirelessly--often holding two jobs at the same time--to ensure that his children had the necessities of life and the opportunity to pursue their own dreams. The sacrifices he made were countless. Like so many parents, he placed the needs of his family above his own, day after day and year after year. Through his example, he taught his children the values of perseverance, responsibility, and unconditional love.

Those who know Mr. Manangan know that his legacy extends far beyond his work ethic. They know him as a man who brought people together.

One of his greatest passions was cooking. With ten children to feed, he learned how to create delicious meals while making the most of every dollar. His home was often filled with the aromas of traditional Filipino dishes, and over time his pancit became a favorite among family members and friends alike. It became a staple at gatherings and celebrations, where loved ones would eagerly look forward to enjoying one of his signature dishes. Through food, he expressed care, generosity, and a deep love for those around him.

It is often said that a person's true wealth is measured not by what they possess, but by the lives they touch. By that measure, Mr. Manangan's life has been extraordinarily rich. His children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives, friends, and neighbors have all benefited from the example he has set and the values he has passed down through generations.

Today, as a centenarian, Mr. Manangan stands as a living reminder of the power of hard work, sacrifice, faith, and family. His story reflects the experiences of so many who came to Guam seeking opportunity and who, through determination and perseverance, helped strengthen our island community. Yet his story is uniquely his own--a story marked by service, devotion, and an enduring commitment to those he loved most.

On behalf of the people of Guam and the United States House of Representatives, I extend my deepest congratulations to Mr. Frank M. Manangan on reaching this extraordinary milestone. We thank him for a lifetime of contributions, for the family he has raised, and for the example he continues to provide for future generations.

Happy 100th Birthday to Mr. Frank M. Manangan. May he continue to be blessed with good health, happiness, and the love of family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a devoted public servant, proud veteran, and beloved son of Guam, former Mangilao Mayor Nonito ``Nito'' Castro Blas, who passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 89.

For nearly three decades, Mayor Nito Blas dedicated his life to serving the people of Mangilao and our island community. To many, he was not simply a mayor. He was a trusted leader, a familiar face, and someone who genuinely cared about the people he served.

Born on June 25, 1936, Nito Blas belonged to a generation shaped by sacrifice, resilience, and service. He witnessed Guam's growth and

transformation across decades and remained deeply committed to preserving the spirit of community that defines our island.

Before entering public office, Mayor Blas proudly served our Nation in the United States Navy. Like so many sons and daughters of Guam, he answered the call to serve far from home, carrying with him the values of duty, humility, and patriotism that would guide him throughout his life. Those same values became the foundation of his public service.

As Mayor of Mangilao for seven terms spanning nearly 28 years, Nito Blas earned the trust and respect of generations of families in his village. And anyone who knew him understood why.

Mayor Blas led with humility and authenticity. He was approachable, kind, and deeply connected to the people around him. He understood that leadership was not about status or recognition, but about showing up for your community day after day. Whether it was attending village events, supporting local families, helping residents through difficult times, or simply taking the time to speak with people personally, Mayor Blas made others feel heard and valued. He represented a generation of leaders who believed public service was rooted in responsibility and compassion.

For the people of Mangilao, Mayor Blas was part of the heartbeat of the village itself. He took pride in bringing people together and strengthening the close-knit community spirit that makes Guam's villages so special.

His impact extended far beyond government offices or official titles. It could be seen in the relationships he built, the trust he earned, and the respect he carried throughout the island community. And while his years in office were significant, what many people will remember most is the kind of man he was. He carried himself with warmth and sincerity. He treated people with dignity and respect. And he served not for personal gain, but because he truly loved his community and wanted to make a difference in the lives of others.

Leaders like Nito Blas leave behind more than accomplishments. They leave behind an example. An example of steady leadership, humility, and most importantly, service before self. At a time when communities everywhere are searching for leadership rooted in compassion and integrity, the life of Mayor Blas reminds us what true public service looks like.

Today, we mourn his passing, but we also celebrate a life that was well lived and deeply meaningful to so many people across Guam. I extend my deepest condolences to the Blas family, his loved ones, former colleagues, and the people of Mangilao during this difficult time. May we continue to honor his legacy by serving our communities with the same humility, dedication, and heart that defined his life.

May Nonito ``Nito'' Castro Blas rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire future generations of leaders in Guam.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and mourn the passing of a truly remarkable woman from Guam, Mrs. Elaine Cruz Jones, who passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 87.

For generations of Guam families, Elaine Jones was more than a respected businesswoman or community leader. She was ``Auntie Laine.'' A steady presence. A woman of grace, faith, generosity, and quiet strength whose life reflected the resilience and spirit of our island people.

Elaine was born into Cruz family as one of eleven children of Augusto Pangelinan and Dolores Sablan Cruz. She grew up during one of the darkest chapters in Guam's history and survived the Japanese Occupation of Guam during World War II.

That experience shaped her generation in profound ways. The people who endured occupation, hardship, fear, and uncertainty carried with them a deep understanding of sacrifice, perseverance, and gratitude. They became the builders of modern Guam. And Elaine Jones was part of that extraordinary generation.

Following the war, Guam entered a period of rebuilding and transformation. Alongside her beloved husband, Kenneth T. Jones, Jr., Elaine helped support what would become one of Guam's most important and influential local businesses, J & G Enterprises.

Together with Ken and his business partner, Segundo Leon Guerrero, they helped lay foundations for economic opportunity and local entrepreneurship at a time when Guam was still finding its footing after the devastation of war. But while many people may recognize the Jones family name because of business success, those who truly knew Auntie Laine understood that her legacy extended far beyond business.

She was, first and foremost, devoted to her family. She was a loving wife to Ken and a proud mother to her five daughters--Donna, Ramona, Veronica, Linda, and Vivian--all of whom carry forward the values she instilled: faith, humility, compassion, and service to others.

Anyone who spent time around Auntie Laine knew how deeply she loved her family and how proud she was of them. She led not through loud words, but through example. Through kindness. Through consistency. Through faith. And even after the passing of her husband, she continued to lead with dignity and strength, stepping forward as President of J & G Enterprises and continuing the family's commitment to giving back to Guam.

Her life was deeply rooted in service to the community. Whether through philanthropy, civic involvement, support for local causes, or simply helping those in need quietly and without recognition, Auntie Laine represented a generation that believed success meant lifting others up along the way.

She also remained unwavering in her devotion to her Catholic faith. Faith was not simply something she practiced on Sundays. It guided how she treated people, how she carried herself, and how she lived her life every single day. And that is perhaps what so many people will remember most about her--her warmth. Her humility. Her generosity. Her ability to make others feel welcomed and valued.

On an island like Guam, where family and community are deeply connected, people like Elaine Jones leave an imprint that reaches far beyond their own relatives. They become woven into the story of the island itself. Her passing is not only a loss for her family, but for our entire community.

Today, I extend my deepest condolences to her daughters, grandchildren, loved ones, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we reflect on her life, may we also reflect on the example she leaves behind: a life grounded in faith, resilience, service, and love for others.

May Auntie Laine's memory continue to inspire future generations of Guam families to lead with compassion, generosity, and strength. And may we all take comfort in knowing that her legacy will endure through the countless lives she touched throughout her 87 years.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary son of Guam whose decades of leadership, service, and vision have left a lasting mark on our island community--Dr. Gerry Perez--as he retires following more than sixty years of public and private service to Guam, our island reflects with deep gratitude on a career defined by leadership, dedication, and an unwavering love for the people of Guam.

For generations, Dr. Gerry Perez has been a respected leader in tourism, economic development, public service, and regional advocacy throughout the Pacific.

Many across Guam know him as a driving force behind the growth and advancement of our visitor industry. Through his work with the Guam Visitors Bureau and decades of leadership in tourism development, he helped position Guam as a premier destination in the Asia-Pacific region while proudly showcasing the culture, hospitality, and identity of the CHamoru people.

But his impact reaches far beyond tourism alone. Dr. Perez's career reflects a lifetime devoted to building Guam's future across many sectors of island life. Over the years, he served in numerous leadership positions throughout government, business, education, and civic organizations including as Director of Land Management, Administrator of the Guam Economic Development Authority, Director of the Bureau of Budget and Management Research, Chairman of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, Vice Chairman of the University of Guam Board of Regents, and Chairman of the Government of Guam Retirement Fund Board of Trustees. His leadership helped shape policies and initiatives that continue to impact Guam today.

What stands out most about Dr. Gerry Perez is not simply the number of titles he has held, but the respect he has earned throughout our community over the course of a lifetime dedicated to service. He became known as someone who could bring people together, build partnerships, and advocate for Guam with professionalism and credibility both locally and internationally. In many ways, he served as one of Guam's strongest ambassadors to the world.

His work helped strengthen Guam's relationships throughout the Pacific and Asia while creating opportunities for economic growth, cultural exchange, and regional cooperation.

Even after decades of accomplishment, Dr. Perez continued to mentor others and remain actively engaged in shaping Guam's future. His commitment to service never faded.

Recently, he was honored with the Maga'H6ga Award, one of Guam's highest recognitions' for public service--a fitting tribute to a man whose life's work has been dedicated to improving our island community. This recognition reflects what the people of Guam have long known: Gerry Perez represents the very best of public service, leadership, and island pride.

His legacy is found not only in the programs he helped build or the organizations he helped lead, but in the generations of leaders, professionals, and community members who benefited from his guidance and example. As Guam continues to navigate new opportunities and challenges in the IndoPacific region, leaders like Dr. Gerry Perez remind us of the importance of vision, collaboration, and service rooted in love for community.

On behalf of the people of Guam, I extend my deepest gratitude to Dr. Gerry Perez for his lifetime of contributions to our island. We thank him for his leadership. We thank him for representing Guam with distinction. And we thank him for helping build a stronger future for generations to come.

I congratulate Dr. Perez on his retirement and on a truly remarkable legacy of service.