Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I would like to honor a man who has dedicated his life to courageous and exemplary service to our Nation, Captain Daniel P. Mack of the United States Navy.

Through his 27-year career, Captain Mack consistently demonstrated his dedication, diligence, and commitment to our great Nation. The son of John Francis Mack, a World War II veteran, and Helen Marie Conboy Mack, he was born February 18, 1960. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1982. After being commissioned, Captain Mack attended Nuclear Power School and Naval Submarine School and reported aboard the USS John Adams. After completing six deterrent patrols over a period of three years, he joined the staff of the Naval Academy, serving as 24th Company Officer and Executive Assistant to the Commandant of Midshipmen. In 1990, he reported to the USS Puffer, which completed Pacific and Arctic patrols during his time aboard, and he was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation.

In 1995, Captain Mack graduated with the highest distinction from the College of Command and Staff at the Naval War College. After earning his Master's Degree in International Relations and National Security Affairs, he was assigned to Executive Officer duty aboard the USS Phoenix. He completed Phoenix's final deployment, during which she earned the 1996 Fleet Silver Anchor Award and a Meritorious Unit Commendation. Captain Mack then returned to the Naval Submarine School, where he served as Prospective Executive Officer instructor.

In January 2000, Captain Mack assumed command of USS Houston. Under his guidance, the boat earned the CINCPACFLT Retention Award, for outstanding personnel development and the highest retention rate in the Pacific.

After completing his tour as Commanding Officer, Captain Mack served as Deputy Commander of Submarine Squadron 11. He then served on the Joint Staff in the Strategic Plans and Policy Division. Captain Mack also served as Nuclear Policy Division Chief and as the Nuclear Weapons Council advisor to the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He also reported to the Navy Staff where he held several vital positions.

In 2007, Captain Mack assumed command of Submarine Squadrons Sixteen and Twenty where he oversaw the development and training of sixteen separate submarine crews.

Even by the military's high standards, Captain Mack's record of achievement stands out. His personal awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, awarded for ``superior meritorious service in a position of significant responsibility'', the Legion of Merit, awarded for ``exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services,'' as well as multiple awards of the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

While the Navy is losing one of its finest officers after his retirement this month, Captain Mack's legacy will continue to benefit the United States Navy for years to come. Whether as a Company Officer at the Naval Academy, Prospective Executive Officer instructor at Naval Submarine School, or as Commander of Submarine Squadrons Sixteen and Twenty, Captain Mack's career has deeply and positively affected the lives of countless Shipmates--improving their futures as Sailors and citizens.

I salute his committed service to our Nation. Moreover, I wish him and his three magnificent children Maggie, Daniel and Timothy great happiness as they embark on this new chapter in their lives. I am certain that Captain Mack will remain successful and productive in every future endeavor.

Madam Speaker, the great Marian Anderson once said, ``Leadership should be born out of the understanding of the needs of those who would be affected by it.'' In recognition of her investiture as the first woman President of the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity, I would like to honor an extraordinary individual who personifies the ``understanding leader'' Ms. Anderson described, Bishop Dr. Audrey F. Bronson.

At the age of 14, this remarkable woman was called to begin her vocation as a preacher. In 1975, she was inspired to establish the Sanctuary Church of the Open Door serving the community of West Philadelphia. In September 1978, the successful Sanctuary Christian Academy was founded to produce students skilled in reading, writing, mathematics, language arts and computer science. Other ministries at the church include Sanctuary Bible Institute; Sanctuary Family Resource Center and Referral Service; Sanctuary Christian Day Camp; Dunlap Apartment Complex; and Sanctuary Outreach Ministries.

Bishop Bronson's spirituality, extraordinary intellect and selfless nature reflect the nurturing of her loving and learned parents and brother. Her father, Dr. Uriah Perry Bronson, was a minister and pastor of churches and principal of several schools in Florida. Her mother and step-mother were both teachers and church workers. Her brother, Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, a United Methodist minister, was pastor of several churches and President of the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. He recently retired as President, Bethune-Cookman College, Daytona Beach, Florida and currently serves as President, Edward Waters College, Jacksonville, Florida.

Dr. Bronson received her bachelor of science degree in elementary education from

Cheyney University; she also holds a master's degree in psychology from Howard University where she also became a candidate for a Ph.D. in psychology. She earned a doctor of ministry degree from New York Theological Seminary. She holds two honorary degrees from Bethune- Cookman College and a doctor of humane letters from the National Theological Seminary and College. Upon completion of her studies, Dr. Bronson returned to Cheyney in 1967 where she taught for 17 years as an associate professor of psychology. Since retiring from that position to devote her full energies to her growing church, she continues to be a valued member of the Cheyney family.

Her many other appointments include: Dean of the Philadelphia Urban Education Institute, a subsidiary of the African American Interdenominational Ministries, Inc. (AAIM, Inc.) of Philadelphia in association with the major seminaries of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Member of the Board of One Church, One Child, Inc., of Pennsylvania, a statewide organization that encourages members of African-American Churches to adopt African-American children. She was a member of the Mayor of Philadelphia's Transition Team and currently serves on the board of the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation and the Executive Committee of the Association of Theological Schools.

Dr. Bronson's faith has led her to minister in prisons; serve as a block captain; work to rid the community of drugs and violence; feed the hungry; and keep her church doors open seven days a week. She is a tireless agent of change ideally qualified to lead the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity to new heights as it strives to ``help the downtrodden'' and those ``pushed aside.'' In many ways, Dr. Bronson has been fulfilling this calling all her life. Early in the HIV/AIDS crisis, when some churches were turning away those afflicted with the disease, Dr. Bronson called on her fellow clergy members to accept those stricken by this terrible disease and to offer education and testing in their communities, a mission she plans on continuing in her new post.

Madam Speaker, I ask that this House acknowledge Bishop Dr. Audrey F. Bronson, as a testament to Marian Wright Edelman's observation that: ``education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.'' Bishop Bronson's life of preaching, learning and teaching has made her a pillar of strength, wisdom, and civic spirit. She has empowered countless African-American families to live fuller, more purposeful lives through their faith in God and one another. With her new responsibilities at the helm of one of the premier spiritual collectives in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, her ability to guide, counsel and inspire across an entire metropolitan region is very welcome news.

Particularly during these very difficult times, she is the perfect ``watchman on the wall.''

Madam Speaker, I would like to honor Bishop Dr. Audrey F. Bronson in recognition of her investiture as President of the Zion Baptist Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on January 24, 2010.

Dr. Bronson is an ordained minister and consecrated bishop. She began preaching at the early age of fourteen and after many years of serving as an evangelist, she established the Sanctuary Church of the Open Door in 1975. Under her leadership, Sanctuary Church grew rapidly. She also founded the Sanctuary Christian Academy in 1978, a private academic school from pre-school to fifth grade; the Sanctuary Bible Institute and the Sanctuary Counseling and Referral Center.

Because of the demands of a growing church, Dr. Bronson retired from Cheyney University in 1984 as Associate Professor of Psychology after seventeen years of teaching. She served as Dean of the Philadelphia Urban Education Institute, a subsidiary of the African American Interdenominational Ministries, Inc. (AAIM, Inc.) of Philadelphia in association with the major seminaries of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dr. Bronson serves as secretary on the board of One Church, One Child, Inc. of Pennsylvania, a statewide organization organized to encourage members of African American Churches to adopt African American children. She also served on the Mayor's Transition Team.

Dr. Bronson is deeply touched by human suffering and her church doors are open seven days a week to minister to people in need of both spiritual and physical help. Dr. Bronson has served as block captain; ministered in prisons; worked to rid the area of drugs surrounding her church and helped to feed homeless people. She has a tremendous desire to bring about changes in the lives of her fellowman and faith in his ability to help himself. Dr. Bronson will continue her good works as President of the Zion Baptist Church.

The Zion Baptist Church began as a missionary prayer meeting in 1882 led by Reverend Horace B. Wayland in the home of Mr. & Mrs. Lewis Simms. Over the years, Zion membership grew to an extraordinary 6,000 congregants. In 1955, Zion moved to its current location at Broad & Venango Streets, where it was transformed into an urban Christian center. To this end, the Church initiated the following programs: a day care center, credit union, community center programs, employment agency, retirement home, adult education courses, reading classes and family counseling.

The Zion Baptist Church and its leadership have consistently placed an emphasis on community development and Christian youth leadership. Community, social, and theological initiatives organized by the Church include the Zion Center for Corresponding Biblical Studies, weekly Bible Study, Transportation Ministry, Puppet and Clown Ministry, spiritual retreats, leadership workshops, Zion Outreach Support Ministry and the Human Services Center.

Dr. Bronson's selection as President of the Zion Baptist Church is the well earned result of many years of dedicated service to the church and the Philadelphia community at large. On behalf of the Seventh Congressional District, I wish Dr. Bronson continued success in this new endeavor.

Madam Speaker, I would like to honor today the memory of a great American hero, Captain Luther H. Smith, Jr., U.S. Army Air Forces, who will be buried with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery on Friday, 15 January. Captain Smith was one of the original Tuskegee Airmen, a highly decorated World War II prisoner of war, a recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal, the first African- American aerospace engineer hired by General Electric in its Missile and Space Operations in Philadelphia, a loving husband and father, and a longtime resident of Villanova, PA.

Captain Smith was born in Des Moines, Iowa on September 27, 1920. His early dreams to serve as a military aviator were fulfilled when he joined the U.S. Army Air Forces and began training at Alabama's Tuskegee Army Air Field and Tuskegee Institute. One of the first African Americans to become a licensed pilot, Captain Smith began his military career in 1943. He flew 133 combat missions with the 332nd Fighter Group as a combat fighter pilot over Europe. He was severely wounded on his last mission on Friday, 13 October 1944, and spent the next seven months in enemy hospitals and prison camps before being liberated in May 1945 by the Allied forces. During his distinguished military career, Captain Smith destroyed 2 German aircraft in aerial conflicts and 10 aircraft in ground strafing attacks. Captain Smith was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Purple Heart, the Prisoner of War Medal, and 8 European Theater Campaign Ribbons.

After retiring from the U.S. Army Air Forces, Captain Smith completed his engineering education at the University of Iowa, earning a B.S. in mechanical engineering. He was hired by General Electric where he was involved in projects for the Air Force, the Navy Submarine Command, and NASA. His work included missile and jet engine design and he published numerous papers and was awarded two patents.

Following his retirement from GE in 1988, Captain Smith was active in support of local civic causes, serving as the vice-chairman of the Radnor Township (PA) School Board and on the Board of the Delaware County (PA) Community College.

He also was instrumental in capturing the history of the Tuskegee Airmen--so that present and future generations of Americans

could understand their significance. He believed passionately that ``racial equality in America started in the skies over Europe.'' He and two other Tuskegee Airmen were featured in the 2006 Documentary ``On Freedom's Wings: Bound for Glory, the Legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen'' which was sponsored by the Pennsylvania Veterans Museum in Media, PA. He also designed the plaque dedicated in memory of the Tuskegee Airmen in Arlington National Cemetery. In May 1995, he was selected by President Bill Clinton to represent the U.S. Air Force for the 50th Anniversary Celebration of VE Day, and he accompanied President Clinton and Vice-President Gore to Europe.

Captain Smith was a member of a unique group of men who possessed an unabashed devotion to this nation and a belief in the strength of American values, even at a time when their country's laws failed to reflect the values for which they fought.

On Friday, at 9:05 AM, the First Fighter Wing from Langley Air Force Base will offer the ultimate recognition of Captain Smith's service to this nation. Like Captain Smith, throughout its storied history, the U.S. Air Force First Fighter Wing has been a trailblazer--leading the way in bringing new fighters operational. Four F-15 fighter jets will flyover the internment services for Captain Smith. In the words of Captain Smith's son Gordon--``I would like to think that my Dad will be beaming with joy and appreciation.''

To Captain Smith's widow, Lois G. Smith, his son Gordon and daughter Deborah, I offer this tribute. As this nation prepares to honor the memory of Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, it is fitting that we also honor the memory of Captain Luther H. Smith, Jr.--like Dr. King, a great American hero who fought to realize America's commitment to freedom for all.

Madam Speaker, December 16, 2009 marks the 65th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. On this day 65 years ago, German forces launched the Ardennes Offensive against American and Allied Forces in Belgium, Luxemburg, and Germany. The Battle of the Bulge, which lasted 40 days, represents one of the greatest displays of valor, honor, and perseverance in American military history. It also marked the beginning of the end of World War II.

One week into this historic battle, commanding officer General Anthony McAuliffe was approached by Colonel Harper with a note from Germany's command asking for an ``honorable surrender'' by American forces. When General McAuliffe was read the note, he laughed and exclaimed, ``Us surrender? Aw, nuts!'' He then realized that a reply was in order, and began to ask his staff what he should say. Lieutenant General Harry Kinnard spoke up, saying ``That first remark of yours would be hard to beat.'' ``What do you mean?'' asked McAuliffe. ``Sir, you said `Nuts'.'' replied the Lieutenant General. And that was the answer that McAuliffe gave back to the Germans; Nuts.

Surrender was never an option for our boys. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned at the onset of the battle, the Allied Forces refused to yield. Even when they were forced to retreat to Bastogne in the face of an overwhelming German force, the objective remained the same: stop Hitler's army, whatever it takes.

According to the Department of Defense, American forces suffered almost 90,000 casualties during the battle, including 19,000 killed, 47,500 wounded and 23,000 missing. It is our duty to honor those lost in battle, and to acknowledge the sacrifice they made--the ultimate sacrifice--in defense of our freedom and security. These men were not expecting combat. In fact, the area they were defending had been considered a ``quiet sector''. As the German Forces advanced, neither they nor their officers were aware of the impending attack. Hitler's army confronted them with half a million troops, 1,800 tanks, and thousands of guns, yet our men prevailed.

In this way, the Battle of the Bulge serves as both a legacy and a precedent. Its legacy is that of the largest land battle in our Army's

history and the turning point of World War II. Its precedent is the model it provides, even today, for our men and women in combat. During my 31 years of service in the Navy, I witnessed acts of extraordinary bravery and resolve among the men and women under my command. As a Vice Admiral, I was honored to serve with the finest sailors that our country has to offer and witness these men and women perform their duties with the same purpose and spirit that led the Allied Forces to victory 65 years ago.

This past August, I was honored with the opportunity to welcome the 83rd Infantry Division of World War II to my District. Many of these men served in the Battle of the Bulge, and it was with tremendous gratitude and respect that I addressed them, shared my own experiences as a Veteran, and fielded questions. As the son of a Navy Captain who served in the War, I have an understanding of the sacrifices these men made to serve their country, including the years they spent away from home and family. I cannot begin to express how grateful I am to these men and the deep appreciation for all they have done to defend the democratic principles of this nation.

It is with humility and a strong sense of obligation that I ask us to recognize the Allied Forces' victory at the Battle of the Bulge in late January, 1945 and the men who made that victory possible.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House to quickly pass the Extended COBRA Continuation Protection Act to ensure health coverage for millions of Americans who, through no fault of their own, have lost their jobs and now, because Wall Street gambled with their savings, cannot afford the COBRA premiums to keep their health care from their former employer.

So, in the economic stimulus bill we provided 65 percent of the cost of those premiums, but those benefits are now running out for those who were laid off first. I ask this House to quickly pass the bill to extend those COBRA premium subsidies for 6 months.

Take a woman in my district. She pays $535 for her 35 percent share of the premiums. It will go over $1,500 very soon if we do not act. And she has a preexisting condition and must keep on her health care plan.

Hundreds have contacted my office regarding this, and I ask this House to quickly help. As we come out of this savage recession, it's not just economic security, but it's health security we must address.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and mourn the loss of a great American. Rear Admiral David M. Stone, United States Navy (Retired) recently passed away, and as a result, we are a lesser Nation. He was a proud son of Illinois, not the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, my State, but I am compelled to see that the achievements of this remarkable man are forever captured in the record of our proceedings because Dave Stone was my shipmate.

We graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1974 and served together as fellow Surface Warfare Officers at sea and ashore for nearly three decades. In the course of those years, I witnessed Dave Stone consistently offer our Nation all of his enormous talent and energy. At the Academy, he led Navy's basketball team with an unmatched passion and competitive spirit.

Upon commissioning as an ensign, he went to sea with the work ethic, sense of responsibility, and selflessness that characterized the very best of the graduates of Annapolis, his reputation across the fleet reflecting an unfailing dedication to leading sailors from the front, by example, and with a total commitment to their personal and professional excellence. He never forgot the importance of a sailor's family, and he put in countless hours tending to the concerns of the parents, wives, and children who sacrifice so much in offering their loved ones to the naval service.

Tactically, his fighting spirit and natural sense of competition drove him to constantly press his systems, operators, and decisionmakers to outthink and outfight every adversary. When our fleet was challenged by serious maintenance concerns, he rolled up his sleeves and took charge of the most complex engineering plant the Navy had devised. He set a standard for engineering readiness that astounded only those who did not know him. As a result, his rise through the ranks was deservedly fast.

Every ship and sailor he served reached new standards of excellence. He commanded the USS John Hancock (DD 981), Destroyer Squadron 50, NATO's Standing Naval Force Mediterranean, and the USS Nimitz Aircraft Carrier Battle Group with skill, courage, and extraordinary professionalism.

He was the officer our Nation needed in the Persian Gulf as that theater became increasingly dangerous. He was the surface warrior best qualified to support actions in the Adriatic that helped close hostilities in Kosovo quickly and favorably. On his promotion to admiral, he was an officer with precisely the strategic vision, intellect, and sense of the world our Navy and Nation needed to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Following retirement from the naval service, his patriotism and sense of responsibility continued unabated. As the first Federal Security Director at Los Angeles International Airport, and later as head of the Transportation Security Administration, he helped secure our national transportation infrastructure so quickly and so completely that his work stands out as one of our government's greatest and most impressive post-9/11 achievements.

However, Dave always considered his greatest achievement the fortune to fall in love with and marry his wonderful bride, Cynthia Faith Voth of Clearwater, Florida. Together, Dave and Faith represented all that was right and good about life in the naval service. They were partners and best friends through the joy and pain of countless deployments, household moves, and the pressures of ever increasing responsibilities for the safety of our Nation's greatest treasure--the young men and women who wear the uniform of our military.

Madam Speaker, I ask that we pause to reflect upon the many contributions Admiral Dave Stone made to our country and the world and to thank Faith Stone for inspiring her husband to serve us all so proudly. Through the pain and frustration of losing this great shipmate, everyone who knew, loved, and respected Dave is comforted by the fact that today, there are countless Midshipmen at Annapolis who will follow his example and seek to model their life on his legacy. Therein lies the greatness of the United States Navy and our Nation and our shipmate and classmate, Dave Stone.

Mr. Speaker, I'm rising today in strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 212.

Twenty years ago this week, the brutal crackdown occurred on the student-led demonstration in Prague. The students were commemorating the 50th anniversary of the execution of Czech student leaders and closure of universities by the Nazis, it turned out, would be silenced no longer by the repressive Soviet-backed regime. A mere 8 days after the fall of the Berlin Wall, they set events in motion which would culminate in the dissolution of the politburo and which would lead to the peaceful establishment of independent Czech and Slovak states in 1993.

As a son of a Slovakian immigrant, these bonds that join us together are so strong. I can remember in the midst of my 30-year naval career going over to see Czechoslovakia in the mid 1980s. Lots of top secret clearances and special access programs I had, and I had to get special permission to go there, but I wanted to see my father's hometown.

I went through Prague. What a city. So beautiful that the movie ``Amadeus'' about the great composer Mozart was filmed there because it was kept so whole in its beauty as Vienna had been. And then to Bratislava and the small village outside where my father grew up. I spoke English, not Slovak, so we conversed. And I had a wonderful dinner and evening and breakfast the next day. And to this day, I'm still not sure they were my relatives. But what a great homecoming I felt I had in that land. I think that's because the backbone of revolutions, both of theirs and ours, was against the greatest empires of the time. A mere spontaneous gathering in the case of Slovakia, like ours, but theirs was of workers, students, and common citizens, not unlike ours, able to shrug off decades of Soviet oppression.

When enough people realize their God-given right to liberty is within reach, they just can't be stopped. Victor Hugo, that great chronicler of revolution, said it best: ``Nothing can resist an idea whose time has come.''

I can remember the evening in Bratislava walking to the border and overlooking the barbed wires into Austria, and the man I walked there with said, ``Some day.''

If there is anything to be called a march of history, it must be this struggle between power and justice, between violence and the endurance of human dignity, the steady triumph of those who meet brute force with the power of a self-evident ideal. Justice, the prerequisite to equality.

Americans of Slovakian descent, such as football player Chuck Bednarik; Tom Ridge, former Governor of my home State of Pennsylvania; Andy Warhol; Stefan Banic, inventor of the parachute; the inventor of the radio, Jozef Murgas; Paul Newman; Michael Strank, the one who raised the American flag on Iwo Jima, have contributed greatly through their wonderful thread in this great national security fabric of the United States of America to our future. I'm proud to honor them today for the revolution so similar to ours.

Madam Speaker, a little shy of 3 years ago, I came to this Congress to pay back a debt. After three decades in the U.S. military, my young 4-year-old was struck with the same brain tumor Senator Ed Kennedy had. Because of the wonderful health care plan that this Congress provides our families in the military, she was given a chance.

I was taken in the U.S. military by how and why we do that. It's not because we're generous. It's because we reap great dividends for this Nation. This Congress sent me off for 11\1/2\ months to a war, and while I was gone, my daughter and my wife were taken care of and my mind was on the mission. In the military, we reap the benefit of healthy, focused warriors.

I am taken with this bill. It gives us healthy, productive workers. It actually combines, in my mind, the best of America's character-- rugged individualism allied with the common enterprise of this Nation. It gives us the quality of life that in the military reaps such great dividends. This bill, to me, is no different, and it's time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to encourage the House of Representatives to stay in session until this health care bill brought forward this weekend is passed. I do that because about 4 years ago I lived down the street in Children's Hospital with my daughter, struck with a brain tumor. Given just a few months to live, we began our chemotherapy after the brain operation.

There was a young boy, 2\1/2\ years old, diagnosed with acute leukemia next to her, where we heard social workers argue for six hours whether that youth, whose parents didn't have health insurance, could stay.

I have always thought in my 31 years in the military how well we invested here in Congress in our military's health care plan because of the dividends it gave to me, for example, when I went to an 11\1/2\ month war, and yet my family and my daughter were taken care of and I was focused on the mission.

We lose $200 billion a year in lost productivity because of the under and uninsured. Our small businesses pay an 18 percent tax in higher health care costs because we have not taken action over the last 10 years.

I urge my colleagues to stay in session, because doing nothing is not who we are.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the 173rd Founders Day of Cheney University of Pennsylvania, our Nation's oldest Historically Black Institution of higher education, and its vision to prepare stellar, reflective, visionary leaders and responsible citizens.

At the time of its founding in 1837 by Quaker philanthropist Richard Humphreys, Cheney University served as a learning place for African Americans who sought an education that would prepare them to become teachers. To meet the needs of all qualified young people regardless of economic status, the university offered a free classical education on its Philadelphia campus. But in 1902, the university moved about 25 miles west of Philadelphia to George Cheney's farm, where it is located today in my district. By 1983, Cheney University joined the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

Today, Cheney University has a diverse student body made up of bright, confident individuals who represent a variety of races, cultures and nationalities. In addition to becoming professionals in the education sector, Cheney graduates earn degrees in more than 30 disciplines and make their mark in careers that include journalism, medicine, business, science, law, communications, and government service.

Among the 10,000 talented graduates who have gone on to lead and make a difference in the world have been journalist Ed Bradley of the CBS program ``60 Minutes''; Robert W. Bogle, publisher and CEO of the Philadelphia Tribune, the oldest newspaper continuously owned and operated by an African American.

Gladys Styles Johnston, chancellor of the University of Nebraska at Kearney; The Honorable Michael Horsey, Pennsylvania House of Representatives; The Honorable Thaddeus Kirkland, Pennsylvania House of Representatives; Robert L. Woodson, founder and president of the National Center for Neighborhood Enterprise (NCNE); Samuel J. Patterson, CEO of Shepard Patterson Systems and Information Consulting Firm; and Ambassador Joseph M. Segars.

On November 6, 2009, Cheney University will celebrate its remarkable history and dedication to excellence in education by looking forward to a new generation of leaders. Through its Academic Success Center and small class sizes, Cheney University provides an academic environment in which students take on a variety of leadership positions at the university. There are more than 40 student organizations allowing students to take advantage of many extracurricular opportunities at the campus newspaper, television station, radio station, and in competitive athletics.

As Michelle Howard-Vital says of her Cheney students, ``On campus, you will see hope and enthusiasm in the eyes of future graduates who will leave Cheney to compete for leadership positions in Pennsylvania, in the United States and around the world.''

To honor Cheney University's ongoing commitment to leadership on its 173rd Founder's Day, educator, author, and motivational speaker Salome Thomas-El will address the university on the subject of leadership and character for the 21st century. In addition, Cheney University will honor The Honorable James R. Roebuck, Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Cheney University of Pennsylvania's 173rd Founder's Day, I acknowledge the alumni, current students, faculty and staff, officers, advisory team, council of trustees, and President Howard-Vital for their collaboration and dedication to educating our next generation of American and world leaders at a marvelous university.

Mr. Speaker, the President correctly addressed the cratering of our economy at the beginning of his administration. And while it's intense, it's no longer intensifying, and we're on the road to economic recovery.

He then took on health care reform, which was correct, with 14,000 Americans losing their health care every day, to provide them affordable, accessible health care in the future.

It's time to address an issue of our ideals, and that is the repeal of ``don't ask, don't tell'' in the military that discriminates against gays.

I served 31 years in the military and rose to be a three-star admiral. I went to war, and we knew by public survey that those who went with me, a certain percentage, were gay. How could I, or anyone, come home and say they don't now deserve equal rights? It's time, Mr. President and this Congress, to hold up a national mirror and say that's not who we are; we are better than that, and repeal ``don't ask, don't tell'' this year.

Mr. Speaker, this month students will return to their

colleges and universities with the anticipation that surrounds a new academic year. And yet we are reminded that these young people will not be immune from unique challenges that face all of us in every community throughout this Nation. The tragic shootings of two students last October at the University of Central Arkansas, the shootings at Virginia Tech which ended in the death of 32 people, and the shootings at Northern Illinois University, where 24 people were shot and six died, emphasize the importance of the issue of campus safety.

The Department of Education has found that between 2005 and 2007 there were not only 10,000 forcible sex offenses, 16,000 aggravated assaults, and 3,000 cases of arson, but also 117 homicides on the campuses of colleges and universities throughout this country. Between one-fifth and one-fourth of female students will become the victims of a completed or an attempted rape, usually by someone they know during their undergraduate careers, and yet less than 5 percent of the cases are ever reported.

Additionally, the National Advisory Council on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has found that each year there are over 1,700 college students between the ages of 18 and 24 who will die from unintentional alcohol-related injuries, including motor vehicle accidents. As we reflect on the significance of this data, we come to understand why this resolution is so important. Originally introduced by a colleague on the other side of this aisle in 2005, this resolution builds on the work of a nonprofit organization, Security on Campus, which is located in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, in my district.

The organization was founded by the parents of a 19-year-old college freshman, Jeanne Clery, who was raped and killed in her college dorm in 1986. In 2008, thanks to the work of this organization, 350 colleges came together from 42 States and the city of Washington, D.C. to participate in programs on campus safety. Although this resolution is far from the final step to guarantee security on the campuses of our Nation's colleges and universities, it is an important step, along with establishing a National Center for Campus Public Safety towards addressing an issue that we all care about, the security of our children.

I urge all my colleagues to show their concern for the safety of the more than 15 million students throughout the country who are the true motivation behind this great resolution. And I appreciate all of the support and the ideas from the other side. I encourage my colleagues, throughout this great House, to support this resolution.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the remarkable life of Walter Strine, Sr., who passed away on September 22, 2009 at the age of 100.

A living example of the Horatio Alger ideal, Mr. Strine was trained as a bricklayer at the Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades, from which he graduated in 1929. It was at Williamson--established in 1888 to provide financially disadvantaged young men with the opportunity to become productive and respected members of society--that the foundation of a very successful life was laid. From there Walter Strine embarked on a career that included teaching, real estate development and philanthropy. In each aspect of his exceptional life he reflected very proudly on the virtues and skills he learned at Williamson. His work ethic, intellect, devotion to family and community were unmatched and left the most positive, lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Married to the love of his life, Elizabeth Sterling Strine, for over 70 years and the father of Walter Jr. and William--both talented and successful men in their own right--his life could not have been fuller. He was inordinately generous to Williamson--where he was responsible for the construction of the Strine Learning Center and he was a member of the Board of Trustees for 25 years.

His vision, basic decency and business acumen shaped the Borough of Media, Pennsylvania into one of the most livable and prosperous communities in our Commonwealth. In addition to his work developing the area's commercial district, he also purchased the Media Theater and transformed it over time into a center for the Performing Arts that is a showcase for local talent and venue for residents from throughout Delaware County to gather in the company of one another.

I cannot imagine a better life than the one lived by Walter Strine, Sr. The results of his work abound in his hometown, he made a great and better difference in the lives of thousands and he was loved and respected. He will be sorely missed.

Madam Speaker, I rise in honor of Mr. Paul E. Atkinson, who died August 4, 2009 following a fall at his residence in Palo Alto, CA. He is survived by a son Paul E. Atkinson of Paris, France, a daughter Mary Hafner of Palo Alto, CA, and a son Peter Atkinson of Grand Junction, CO and seven grandchildren.

Mr. Atkinson was the long time President of Sun Ship, a leading shipyard nationally, and one of the largest employers in Delaware County, part of the District that I have the honor to represent. Very many of my constituents in Delaware County and in its surroundings worked at Sun Ship under the extraordinary leadership of Mr. Atkinson.

Among their many proud achievements were (1) the 590 foot HUGHES GLOMAR EXPLORER, built at the height of the Cold War for the CIA to secretly lift a sunken Soviet submarine from a three mile depth in the Pacific Ocean, (2) conversion of the tanker MANHATTAN into the largest icebreaker of all time, that successfully twice transited the Northwest Passage to Alaska and became the forerunner of the commercial commerce now beginning in the Arctic, and (3) construction of the largest solid rocket cases ever, begun in the period of President Kennedy's renowned reach into space.

With regret at Mr. Atkinson's passing but with thanks to him and those of my constituents who worked with him, I am pleased to add the following record of Mr. Atkinson's achievements.

Mr. Atkinson joined Sun Shipbuilding & Dry Dock Company in Chester, PA after graduating from the Webb Institute of Naval Architecture in May 1942. Mr. Atkinson undertook many varied assignments in both new shipbuilding and ship repair operations during those war years and helped to guide Sun Ship into the post-war era with employment in the 5000 range, introduction of unions and participation in the postwar prosperity with new shipbuilding some 70% of manpower, burgeoning ship repair work 10-20% from increased Delaware River traffic and outside sales (non marine) work 10-20% from wind tunnels, the largest solid rocket cases ever built, much nuclear work for reactors, Savannah River and the Fernald Plant, paper mills, and key components of the Verrazano Bridge.

During the Korean War, Mr. Atkinson became General Superintendent of all operations and in 1956 he became Vice President of Operations. Large shipyards in the United States began with the invention of riveting and Sun Ship was no exception. In 1957, Mr. Atkinson led the complete rebuilding of the shipyard with fewer but greatly enlarged shipways into a true welding shipyard with several pioneering attributes, among them the largest floating drydock then in the United States.

A keen business participant well versed in the involvement of government in marine shipbuilding contracts whether through subsidy or mortgage guarantee, Mr. Atkinson looked for a better way. He became Sun Ship President in 1961. In 1965 he saw a shipping need and a Navy budgetary impediment under Defense Secretary McNamara. Mr. Atkinson conceived the gas turbine propelled ADM. WM. M. CALLAGHAN, and with an established ship operator, Sun Ship formed a joint venture that built, chartered and operated the ship for decades for the Navy.

Building on that success, Mr. Atkinson, was an early pioneer in the development of roll-on/roll-off (ro/ros) vessels. During 1965-1977 Sun Ship constructed ten ro/ros, five 80,000 ton tankers, several 120,000 ton tankers, placing many of those ships in build and charter subsidiaries under the shipping diversification strategy he pioneered at Sun Ship. Among these was TOTE, a dry cargo roll-on/roll-off shipping company, wholly owned by Sun Ship, operating to Alaska. Today it is a leading successful, unsubsidized, American flag operator. During that period, under Mr. Atkinson the yard converted the MANHATTAN for her two pioneering ice-breaking voyages through the Northwest Passage to Alaska and built the legendary HUGHES GLOMAR EXPLORER to secretly lift a sunken Soviet submarine from three miles deep in the Pacific at the height of the Cold War.

Atkinson was a Trustee of Webb Institute for many years and a recipient of its coveted William Selkirk Owen Award. He was a member of the American Bureau of Shipping, and their Technical Committee. He also was a director of the Shipbuilders Council of America, and a member and technical representative of Lloyd's American Committee. He received the prestigious Sea Grant Association award and was active personally and through Sun Ship

with the University of Delaware College of Marine Studies at Lewes, DE. He was Vice President of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and active in similar civic organizations.