Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

As Memorial Day approaches, it's appropriate that we take time this week to consider the next 10 bills that are on the suspension calendar. In doing so, we must be mindful of the heavy sacrifices made by the men and the women of our Armed Forces. It is their sacrifices that allow us to enjoy our American way of life and time-honored traditions like Memorial Day.

For many of us, Memorial Day will be marked with a solemn commemoration at a veterans' cemetery or a befitting memorial. I appreciate Chairman Filner's expediting these bills through the committee process to bring them to the floor in a timely fashion.

Mr. Speaker, I rise this afternoon in support of H.R. 2790, as amended, a bill to establish the position of Director or Physician Assistant Services within the office of the Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health. I commend my colleagues Mr. Hare and Mr. Moran for introducing this bill.

There is a strong relationship between military service and the physician assistant profession. In 1965 Duke University established the first PA education program to capture the knowledge of military medical corpsmen that served in Vietnam and transition their experience into the civilian health care system. Today the VA is the largest employer of physician assistants, and they play a central role in enhancing veterans' access to health care, and it's important for VA to continue to advance the utilization of these health care providers.

Establishing this office would be beneficial to veterans. A full-time Director would ensure PAs are used appropriately to provide veterans the health care that they deserve. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

I rise in strong support of H.R. 3681, as amended, called the Veterans Benefits Awareness Act of 2008, which would amend title 38 of the U.S. Code to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to advertise in the national media to promote awareness of benefits under laws administered by the Secretary.

I additionally want to thank my colleague, Mr. Boozman, for introducing this bill, as well as Chairman Herseth Sandlin of the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, and Chairman Filner of the full committee, for expediting this bill through the committee process to bring it to the floor.

Mr. Speaker, as anyone who watches TV or listens to the radio experiences advertising aimed at convincing them of the need for, or the quality of a product or a service, businesses buy advertising, sometimes at very expensive prices because it works. VA should be doing the same thing to bring its outreach programs into the 21st century. H.R. 3681 will clarify VA's authority to use advertising to increase veterans' awareness of the benefits and services that are offered by

Mr. Speaker, at this time I yield such time as he

may consume to the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Boozman), who has been a strong supporter of VA issues his entire time here in the House of Representatives.

We have no further speakers. We urge adoption and yield back the balance of our time.

General Leave

Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 5856, the VA Medical Facility Authorization and Lease Act of 2008. I am pleased that this bill will comprehensively address the needs of veterans throughout the Nation.

Important to delivering high quality care to our Nation's veterans is the planning for the construction of VA's substantial health care infrastructure. It is vital that veterans can continue to receive care where they need it most and will be able to receive it where they need it in the future. They have given so much for our country, and providing them with timely access to the best health care possible is just one important way we can show them how thankful we are for what all they have done.

This legislation improves access to care for veterans by ensuring that current VA facilities are modernized and that future construction occurs where it is needed. That means keeping track of where veterans live and locating facilities in those areas. Too often, veterans must travel great distances to receive their health care, but this is something that we can fix, and the VA Medical Facility Authorization and Lease Act of 2008 is an important step in that direction.

I commend Chairman Michaud for his work on this legislation through the Subcommittee on Health and the full Veterans' Affairs Committee, and look forward to its passage.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to today in support of House Resolution 1026, recognizing the 100th anniversary of the Congressional Club. One hundred years ago, the Congressional Club was founded to promote friendship among the spouses of Members of Congress. While keeping true to its purpose, the club throughout the years has become much more. Not only does this distinctive club build relationships between the two political parties, but it also organizes charity events and diplomatic receptions. Every spring since 1912, the spouses gather to host a luncheon in honor of our First Lady, and they donate tens of thousands of dollars to charities in her name. Many of the club's charitable recipients include mentoring programs, literacy programs, the White House library, youth dance troupes, domestic shelters, and child care centers.

Fulfilling their own mission to encourage all Americans to strive for greater friendship, civility, and generosity in order to heighten public service, elevate the culture, and enrich humanity; the spouses extend their hands globally in friendship and goodwill by hosting an annual diplomatic reception to entertain the spouses of Ambassadors to the United States. The Congressional Club encourages all Americans to seek out opportunities to give support and to volunteer to assist charitable organizations in their own communities.

I am proud and honored that my wife, Vicki Miller, is the incoming president of the Congressional Club next year. She follows in the footsteps of admirable Presidents including Mrs. Vivian Bishop, Mrs. Lindy Boggs, Mrs. Jo Ann Emerson, Mrs. Lois Capps, Mrs. Mary Bono Mack, and Ms. Doris Matsui. I know Vicki is looking forward to carrying on the friendships and bipartisan traditions of the club.

Mr. Speaker, today I would like to congratulate the Congressional Club on its 100th anniversary and to recognize these spouses in their efforts to promote the greater good both here at home and abroad. May God bless them and may the Congressional Club continue in their friendship and charitable efforts for many years to come.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Sergeant Thomas Savage Rice upon his retirement from the United States Army Reserve.

Sergeant Rice's commitment to his country and community spans several decades. With almost 40 years of service, Sergeant Rice has dutifully devoted his time to assignments across the Nation. Ft. Eustis, Virginia, Ft. Lewis, Washington, and Ft. McNair, Washington DC, are just a few of the many locations that Sergeant Rice has nobly served. He has ably worked in countless positions and various specialties, resulting in seven promotions over a 25 year span including his current rank of Sergeant.

Throughout his career with the United States Army and United States Army Reserve, Sergeant Rice has received numerous accolades and awards including the Joint Service Achievement Medal and the Saudi Arabian Kuwait Liberation Medal; all of which attest to his hard work and perseverance. In addition to recognition gained through his military career, Sergeant Rice lives a highly exemplary civilian life. He is a restaurant owner and serves on the board of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. He was also the 2004 recipient of Florida's Good Neighbor Award from the National Restaurant Association.

The duty Sergeant Rice has performed, as well as his outstanding tenure in the military, is a reflection of the dedication and valor he possesses. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to honor Sergeant Thomas Savage Rice for his enduring allegiance to our great Nation and the State of Florida.

Madam Speaker, I would like to offer a personal explanation of the reason I missed rollcall Vote No. 146 on March 14, 2008. I was meeting off Capitol Hill with over 100 World War II veterans from my

district who flew up on the Emerald Coast Honor Flight.

If present, I would have voted: Rollcall vote No. 227, Previous Question on the Rule for H.R. 5522--Worker Protection Against Combustible Dust Explosion and Fire Act, ``nay''; Rollcall vote No. 228, Rule for H.R. 5522--Worker Protection Against Combustible Dust Explosion and Fire Act, ``nay.''

Madam Speaker, it is a great honor for me to rise today to recognize the Inaugural Mission of Emerald Coast Honor Flight on April 30, 2008. The organization's efforts serve as a much- deserved tribute to our Nation's veterans.

Emerald Coast Honor Flight was established as a regional program in my district in Northwest Florida to fly World War II veterans to Washington, DC, for one day and give them a chance to see the memorials specifically dedicated to the conflicts in which they bravely served. The organization is privately funded, and with the support of individuals and businesses alike, the trip is made at absolutely no cost to the veteran.

The Emerald Coast is well-known for its unwavering support for our men and women in uniform in both current and past conflicts. With a strong military presence and nearly 110,000 veterans, there is a tremendous appreciation in the area for those who put their lives on the line to defend liberty. It is therefore of little surprise to me that people throughout Florida's First Congressional District came together so willingly and eagerly to make this day a reality. For many of our veterans, especially World War II veterans who have waited so long for a memorial, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The Greatest Generation made our world a better place because they fought for what was right, and it is right for us to show them our gratitude at every opportunity.

Our men and women in uniform have always stood ready to defend liberty, and for that we owe them an eternal debt of gratitude. I am deeply moved by Emerald Coast Honor Flight's efforts to convey to these veterans the knowledge that their service will be long remembered and appreciated.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to recognize the efforts of all who worked toward making this inaugural flight possible. The goal of Emerald Coast Honor Flight is noble and commendable, and I look forward to many more flights being made by this organization.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to honor the Northwest Florida Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Services, WAVES, Unit 52 and recognize its members' past, present, and future service to our country.

Women had been serving the war effort for years before they became an official addition to the United States Navy in 1956. Tens of thousands of officers and enlisted women contributed significantly to the Allied success of WWII. After their role in the Navy was legitimized, WAVES National was formed to connect former servicewomen and enable them to share their stories and experiences.

It is with grateful appreciation that I address this organization of valiant women whose participation in the military has evolved from the unprecedented to the exemplary. At a time when the role of women in the war effort was limited, members of WAVES transgressed societal norms by dutifully and commendably serving in the Navy and uniting against the Axis Power. Now, over sixty years later, women serve in every branch of our armed forces. Heroic accounts detailing the patriotism of women both on the battlefield and behind the line have altered the perception of women's role in the military and redefined the archetypal soldier.

The Northwest Florida WAVES Unit 52 consists of 43 members, half of whom served in WWII. Their mission is to encourage ``patriotism, loyalty, and devotion to God, country and family.'' Membership is limited to women and includes those who have served or are currently serving in the Navy, Naval Reserve or other military Sea Services. Additional service is allotted to the community as members engage in various activities that benefit the surrounding area.

The women of Waves Unit 52 have dedicated their lives to preserving the security of every American citizen. In conjunction with National Military Appreciation Month, we recognize the initial women of WAVES for employing a bold determination to serve in the war effort and celebrate the outstanding service of all the women who decorate its membership. The women of WAVES have exuded exceptional patriotism and valor and the First District of Florida is honored to house this exemplary organization.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Northwest Florida WAVES Unit 52 for its honorable service and dedication.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to recognize the life of Northwest Florida's beloved Brenda Bush.

A native of Andalusia, Alabama. Brenda Bush moved to Crestview, Florida, located in Florida's First Congressional District, in 1986--a place where her footsteps were planted and will never wash away.

Mrs. Bush was an active member in the business, civic, and church communities. In 1993, Brenda Bush was elected to the Crestview City Council, where she continually served her community with passion and commitment to excellence. Mrs. Bush was also a member of the Okaloosa County League of Cities, Northwest Florida League of Cities, Okaloosa- Walton Transportation Planning Organization, and Economic Development Council. An active member of First Baptist Church of Crestview, Mrs. Bush served on various committees and as a Sunday school teacher. She was a member of the North Okaloosa Unit of the American Cancer Society, Woman's Club of Crestview, and Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce. Her service to the Northwest Florida community was not uncommon to all who knew her and all who were blessed by her presence, as it played a role in her daily life.

To some Brenda Bush will be remembered as a public servant and dear colleague, and to others an educator and volunteer. She will long be remembered by her family and friends as a woman of strong Christian faith, a loving and compassionate mother, grandmother, wife, and companion; and we will all remember her passion and generosity. Mrs. Bush touched a number of lives. We will forever be grateful and forever be inspired by her life.

Mrs. Bush is survived by her husband, Jim, three children, and three grandchildren. To her family and friends, I would like to offer my sincere condolences. Northwest Florida has suffered a great loss.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to honor the life of Brenda Bush and her living legacy.

Madam Speaker, it is a great honor for me to rise today to recognize the grand opening on April 25, 2008, of the Department of Veterans Affairs Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) in Okaloosa County, located in the First Congressional District in Northwest Florida.

This momentous occasion has been a long time coming for the ever- growing veterans' population along Florida's Emerald Coast. With the highest veterans' population of any congressional district in the Nation, many of the residents of Okaloosa County and the immediate areas have had to drive significant distances for some of the most basic outpatient care from the VA. This area was identified years ago as an underserved area for VA healthcare, and was marked as a priority location for future VA construction. Now completed and ready to receive patients, this CBOC will alleviate travel time and provide efficient access to VA healthcare for those veterans.

Beautiful beaches, warm weather, and friendly neighbors encourage many to call the Florida panhandle ``home.'' With five military installations in my district alone it is little wonder that active and retired military and nearly 110,000 veterans make up a tremendous portion of my constituency. While many already saw the need for improved access to VA care, it took a coordinated effort from many interested parties to make this event a reality. There was no doubt that this facility is what our area's veterans needed and deserved.

A co-sharing agreement between VA and the Department of Defense has been a huge factor in bringing about this moment. By using land on Eglin Air Force base, in close proximity to the base hospital, veterans using the VA clinic have access to various DoD resources and active servicemembers stationed there have access to part of the clinic's specialty care. In addition, the use of DoD land ensures that VA does not have to deal with finding and acquiring land, resulting in the best deal for taxpayers and veterans alike.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to recognize the efforts of all who worked toward bringing this important facility to Okaloosa County, Florida. We have an eternal debt of gratitude to our servicemen and women, and this much-needed VA clinic is one way that we can begin to say thank you for ensuring that the liberty continues to shine a bright light over our country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today also to honor the state of Israel which will celebrate its 60th anniversary in May. The relationship between the United States and Israel is indeed a special one. Israel has been our close friend and ally through the Cold War and now in the global war on terror. It is a relationship that will continue to strengthen in the years to come.

Even after 60 years, Israel continues to fight for its very survival against relentless attacks by Hamas and Hezbollah and other terrorist groups. The United States and Israel must always stand in complete solidarity against those nations and groups that seek to destroy Israel. We have stood together against anti-Semitism for the last 60 years, and we will continue to do so for many years to come.

I congratulate the Israeli government and the Israeli people on their special day. May God continue to bless the very close American relationship with Israel not only in this special year, but for all eternity.

Madam Speaker, I missed rollcall vote Nos. 153-160 on April 2 and April 3, 2008. If present, I would have voted:

Rollcall vote No. 153, Approval of the Journal, ``nay.''

Rollcall vote No. 154, Previous Question, ``nay.''

Rollcall vote No. 155, Rule for H.R. 5501, Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde United States Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Reauthorization Act of 2008, ``nay.''

Rollcall vote No. 156, Carson Amendment that directs the Coordinator of US Government Activities to Combat HIV/AIDS Globally and the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development to expand their plan for strengthening health systems of host countries by allowing for postsecondary educational institutions, particularly in Africa, to collaborate with postsecondary educational institutions and specifically historically black colleges and universities in the United States, ``aye.''

Rollcall vote No. 157, Motion to Recommit H.R. 5501, the Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde United States Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Reauthorization Act of 2008, ``aye.''

Rollcall vote No. 158, Final Passage of H.R. 5501, Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde United States Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Reauthorization Act of 2008, ``nay.''

Rollcall vote No. 159, Motion to Recommit H.R. 4847, the U.S. Fire Administration Reauthorization Act, ``aye.''

Rollcall vote No. 160, Final Passage of H.R. 4847, the U.S. Fire Administration Reauthorization Act, ``aye.''

Madam Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to recognize the passing of Harry Ryan ``Mack'' McDonald, Jr. Mack was a patriot who over the course of many years put his country before himself.

Born on August 8, 1928. in Pensacola in my district in northwest Florida, Mack enjoyed an extensive career with both the United States Navy and Army. Over two decades of service saw him rise from his first enlistment to the rank of first sergeant and later retire at the rank of captain. Through those years he defended our Nation's liberty in World War II, the Korean war, and the Vietnam war. Mack's bravery in combat earned him, among other honors, both the Bronze Star Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge.

After his retirement, Mack returned to northwest Florida. the area of the country where he had grown up and still wanted to call home. After building a house in the city of Crestview, Mack wanted to continue to be engaged with our Armed Forces and joined the Disabled American Veterans, DAV, Crestview Chapter 57. His love of service to his country showed in his involvement with DAV, and he served in many positions. Mack went on to become a chapter commander, a district commander, and a State commander. This is no small task given the number of veterans that choose to call the State of Florida their home.

From 1997 to 1998, Mack served as the national commander for the Disabled American Veterans. There is no doubt that Mack was the right man for this monumental job. He served as the main advocate for over a million veterans throughout the nation. In this position, Mack traveled the Nation learning the needs of disabled veterans and came before Congress and the Department of Veterans Affairs to explain and press for improved services for those veterans.

My condolences go out to Mack's wife Merallyn, their family, and all others who mourn the loss of this great servant to our Nation. America is a better, safer place because of him and those many others who served in our Armed Forces. He loved his country and his family deeply, and his loss will have a vast impact on many.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is with no small amount of sorrow that I tell of the passing of Mack McDonald from this world, and his family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Carlene H. Anderson, the 2008 Walton County recipient of the Superintendent's Award for Volunteer Community Involvement.

Ms. Anderson has amplified education in the Walton County area, expanding it beyond the classroom and into the community. By building partnerships with the Walton County Chamber of Commerce, local businesses, and various other community organizations, Ms. Anderson has fused a significant relationship that enforces the role of education in the community. Her recent collaboration with the Florida Chautauqua Assembly brought the Hall of Presidents to Walton County. The event was an immense success, drawing national attention and acclaim. More importantly, however, the success of the event proved the importance of education within the community.

Ms. Anderson's shrewdness and exceptional leadership capabilities have enhanced the learning opportunities for the students she overlooks and enriched the community with educational outlets. She is especially involved in the volunteer programs coordinated by the schools in Walton County and is a strong supporter of community involvement. This endorsement has resulted in multiple accolades including the Golden and Silver School Award.

Volunteers play a vital role in the physiology of the classroom. Their presence eases the responsibilities of the teacher and their assistance provides extra services for students who otherwise would not receive extended aide. Ms. Anderson's foresight and devotion to Walton County schools enabled her to recognize the importance of volunteers and their outstanding contributions to the schools. Such discernment has benefited the entire community which prospers from the student's academic success. Ms. Anderson's accomplishments have distinguished her as one of the great people in Northwest Florida. Walton County is greatly indebted to her service and is honored to have her as one of their own.

Madam Speaker. on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Superintendent Carlene H. Anderson on this outstanding achievement and for her exemplary service in the Walton County School District.

Mr. Speaker, I missed rollcall vote No. 146 on March 14, 2008.

If present, I would have voted: Rollcall vote No. 146, Approval of the Journal, ``nay.''