Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, on April 26, 2014, I was honored to attend the Sparkleberry County Fair in Northeast Columbia, South Carolina led by Chairman John Monroe. At this year's Fair, I was present as the Fair Committee recognized Paul Towns for his dedication to the community. Mr. Towns, a veteran of 20 years' service in the United States Army and native of Elgin, South Carolina, was additionally honored for his compassion and generosity to others, his integral role in planning for the Sparkleberry County Fair, and for raising cancer awareness.

A survivor of a 10-year battle with cancer, Paul successfully organized the inaugural Sparkleberry Fair Cancer Awareness 5K on April 19, 2014. This run/walk helped raise funds for the South Carolina Oncology Association's efforts to provide assistance to patients throughout their cancer treatment.

In addition to promoting cancer awareness through the Sparkleberry County Fair, Mr. Towns, his wife Sarah, and their two children put on a Christmas light display with 100 percent of the proceeds raised going directly to benefit Camp Kemo, a summer camp for kids that have been diagnosed with cancer. Guests enjoy an old fashioned light display, hay rides, a freedom tree, his collection of antique tractors, miniature trains, and memorabilia all beautifully decorated with lights while supporting a great cause.

Mr. Towns' passion for promoting cancer awareness, while maintaining a positive attitude, dignity, optimism, and humor in everything he does makes him an integral part of the community.

Mr. Speaker, as Islamic terrorists seize control of major Iraqi cities, it is clear that the President's failure to secure a status of forces agreement has jeopardized the progress our military made to promote democracy and peace in the region.

We have known for years that the Iraqi Government was struggling to implement democracy. Instead of offering help, the President ignored lessons learned of successfully maintaining peace with an American reserve of air defense, as we have done in Germany, Japan, Korea, and now in Kosovo.

Even now, as the Middle East watches to see how the United States will react to the current crisis, the President is putting our families at risk as he negotiates with terrorists and communicates with Israel's enemies.

The President needs to change course, recognize the growing threat of international terrorism, and understand that failed diplomacy and inaction allows the creation of safe havens to attack us again.

Peace can only be maintained by strength as the terrorists proclaim: Death to America, and death to Israel. They mean it.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism with freedom to prevail.

Mr. Speaker, on June 8, 2014, the following obituary was published by The State of Columbia, South Carolina, honoring the memory of an American hero, Colonel Berry Livingston Gambrell.

Berry Livingston Gambrell LEXINGTON--A memorial service for Berry Livingston Gambrell, 63, will be held at 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 10, 2014 at Mt. Tabor Lutheran

Church with inurnment to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, June 9, 2014 at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel. Pastor Wade Roof and Colonel Steve Shugart will conduct the services. Honorary Pallbearers are members of the South Carolina Army National Guard and the Lands End Gang. Mr. Gambrell was born October 26, 1950 in Columbia, SC and passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Friday, June 6, 2014. He was a son of the late Berry Humphrey and Kathryn Livingston Gambrell. Berry was a graduate of The University of South Carolina with a BS in Business and Finance in 1973 and later received his MBA. He was a member of the SC Army National Guard for 34 years, retiring as a Colonel in 2004. Some of his distinguished honors include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal and the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal. He excelled in many areas throughout his career and was highly regarded for his accomplishments as the state's Recruiting and Retention Manager. He was a member of the Palmetto Military Academy Hall of Fame. Berry was an active member of Mt. Tabor Lutheran Church where he served on Church Council, drove the bus for the children's programs, and lovingly cooked with Chuck for his church family. He always looked forward to his fishing trips with his Lands End Gang. Berry always said he had three families: His family, church family and work family; however to him, his greatest accomplishment in life was his family. He is survived by his girls, including his loving bride of 39 years, Patsy Riddle Gambrell, their two daughters with husbands; Summer and Peter Insabella of Charleston, Whitney and Ricky Glass of West Columbia. He was a loving Gam-B to his granddaughters, Brooklyn Layne Glass and Everly Kathryn Insabella. He is also survived by his sister, Vicki Witt and brother, Greg Gambrell, both of North, SC. He was dearly beloved by his in-laws, including special nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his loving Uncle Floyd Livingston. The family has been deeply moved by the outpouring of love and support they have received during Berry's illness and death. The family would like to extend a special thanks to his loving sister-in-law, Lynn Cain, who nursed him throughout his illness and was among those by his side during his final hours. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Tabor Lutheran Church Capital Fund Family Life Center, 1000 B Avenue, West Columbia,

Mr. Speaker, I submit the following remarks regarding my absence from votes which occurred on June 9, 2014 and June 10, 2014 as I participated in a primary election on June 10th. Listed below is how I would have voted had been present.

Roll Number 272--H.R. 4412--To authorize the programs of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and for other purposes--``aye.''

Roll Number 273--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Broun of Georgia Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 274--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Chabot of Ohio Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 276--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Gohmert of Texas Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 277--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Nadler of New York Amendment--``nay.''

Roll Number 278--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Capito of West Virginia Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 279--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Broun of Georgia First Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 280--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Broun of Georgia Second Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 281--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Broun of Georgia Third Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 282--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Hartzler of Missouri Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 283--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Daines of Montana Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 284--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Gosar of Arizona First Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 285--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Gosar of Arizona Second Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 286--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Fleming of Louisiana Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 287--H.R. 4810--To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into contracts for the provision of hospital care and medical services at non-Department of Veterans Affairs facilities for Department of Veterans Affairs patients with extended waiting times for appointments at Department facilities and for other purposes--``aye.''

Roll Number 288--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Denham of California Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 289--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Blackburn of Tennessee Amendment No. 1--``aye.''

Roll Number 290--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Schock of Illinois Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 291--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Gosar of Arizona First Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 292--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Gosar of Arizona Second Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 293--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Schiff of California Amendment--``nay.''

Roll Number 294--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Sessions of Texas Amendment--``aye.''

Roll Number 295--H.R. 4745 on agreeing to the Gingrey of Georgia Amendment No. 29--``aye.''

Roll Number 296--H.R. 4745 on Motion to Recommit with Instructions-- ``nay.''

Roll Number 297--H.R. 4745--Making appropriations for the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes--``aye.''

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. Speaker, the President's failure to provide lifesaving services to our veterans is a tragedy. Complaints of delays, preventable illnesses, and deaths have plagued the Veterans Administration for years.

The President promised corrections while campaigning for the White House in 2008, yet the failures have accelerated, with more scandal, neglect, and incompetence. It is shameful that the President finally discussed this issue after claiming to have recently heard about it in the news.

This week, I joined others asking for the President to remove VA Secretary Eric Shinseki and appoint a new Secretary who can get the job done and give our veterans the health care they have earned and deserve for ensuring our freedom.

I appreciate Keven Cohen, ``The Point'' talk show host, for promoting veterans. American Legion Commander Dan Dellinger recently said, ``This isn't personal. VA needs a fundamental shift in leadership if it is to defeat its systematic lack of accountability.'' As a Legionnaire myself, I couldn't agree more. The best way forward is to change course to restore faith for our veterans, military families, and the American people.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. Speaker, a firm education prepares America's children for lifelong success.

This year, the Office of the Second Congressional District hosted the First Annual Elementary School Challenge, where we encouraged third graders to write in and share their favorite part of South Carolina history.

I am grateful for the support the office received from teachers and administrators who participated in this inaugural competition. Students from over 100 third grade classrooms shared lessons of history which are very meaningful for today.

Zachary Valsecchi, a student at Round Top Elementary School in Blythewood, South Carolina, won this year's competition. He shared the story of the ``Best Friend of Charleston,'' America's first regularly scheduled passenger service train, built in 1831, which ran between Charleston and Hamburg, which is now near North Augusta on the Savannah River in Aiken County. His parents, Wayne and Susan, should be proud of Zachary's accomplishments and the bright future he has ahead of him. I am confident that Round Top Elementary School, Principal Jeaneen Tucker, and teacher Cathy Williams will continue to prepare our young people for success.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. Speaker, this month Lexington County recognized the service of Nevin Whiteside, Jr., as a proud Navy veteran of the Korean War. The following obituary was provided by Caughman-Harmon funeral Home, Lexington Chapel.

Funeral services for Nevin ``Neb'' William Whiteside, Jr., 84, of Lexington, will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 2, 2014 at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, with interment in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 1, 2014 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 1130 St. Peter's Church Rd., Lexington, SC 29072. Mr. Whiteside was born November 28, 1929 in Leesville, SC and passed away on April 30, 2014. He was the son of the late Nevin William Whiteside and Bertie Eargle Whiteside. Mr. Whiteside served our country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He retired from Kenan Transportation. He was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church, VFW and Lexington Masonic Lodge 152. He loved to ride his Harley-Davidson and enjoyed working in the yard and cleaning his car. Mr. Whiteside is survived by his wife, Barbara ``Bobbie'' Sox Whiteside, of Lexington; sons, Stan and Wayne Whiteside of Lexington; daughter, Kim (Tim) French of Lexington; grandchildren, Lauren, Andrew, and Brandon Whiteside, Ashley (Bower) Butler and Malia and Devin French; great-grandchildren, Reece and Paxton Butler; sister, Doris Goff of Saluda and man's best friend ``Bandit'', (Poppy's Lil' Buddy). He is predeceased by his parents and his brother Horace Whiteside.

Mr. Speaker, according to a recent article in The Wall Street Journal:

The Obama administration said Friday it would let States

decide whether to implement a key part of the health care

law's small business exchanges next year, extending an

earlier delay.

The Department of Health and Human Services said, in rules

released Friday, that it will be up to State insurance

commissioners to decide whether employers and employees at

small businesses using health exchanges for workers in 2015,

if they can show it would be in the best interest of the

insurance market of the State.

The lengthy list of implemented ObamaCare delays confirms the President knows his signature health care law is unworkable and destroys jobs. Changing the law without congressional approval also shows the President wants to conceal the true consequences of this failed law until after the midterm elections in November.

We must put politics aside and do what is best for the American people and repeal ObamaCare to promote jobs.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Thank you, Chairman McKeon, for your leadership. Congratulations on the deserved naming in your honor of the National Defense Authorization Act.

Mr. Chair, the military personnel provisions of H.R. 4435 are a product of an open, bipartisan process. H.R. 4435 provides our warfighters, veterans, and military families the care and support they need, deserve, and have earned.

Specifically, this year's proposal continues to refine the Department of Defense sexual assault and response program while at the same time actively monitoring the Department's implementation of the significant reforms enacted by Congress over the past 2 years.

In particular, the mark requires performance evaluations for commanding officers to include assessments of the command climate pertaining to sexual assault.

In addition, the mark would require the Secretary of Defense to conduct a review, utilizing the services of an independent organization experienced in grocery retail analysis, of the defense commissary system and reverse some of the reductions to the commissary system.

The mark would express the sense of Congress that the United States has a responsibility to continue to search for missing or captured members of the Armed Forces, leaving no one behind.

Additionally, this would standardize the collection reporting and assessments of suicide data involving members of the Armed Forces and their family members.

Although the mark follows the administration's request for annual end strength reductions, I have serious reservations about the end strength and force structure reduction of our military. America remains at war today, and will continue a global conflict with murderous illegal enemy combatants.

We must not forget the attacks of September 11, 2001, and September 11, 2012, in the global war on terrorism.

This report does not include the administration's request for military retirees to pay more for health care. Congress established the Military Compensation and Retirement Modernization Commission, and we need to be informed of their analysis before proceeding with changes impacting military families.

In conclusion, I want to thank Ranking Member Susan Davis and her staff for their input in this process. We were joined by an active, informed, and dedicated group of subcommittee members supported by a professional staff in the tradition of the late John Chapla.

I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise today to pay tribute to South Carolina's Second Congressional District as home to recipients of the Purple Heart. So many of its residents have honorably served our nation in its time of need--all gave some and some gave all. As a reflection of the Midlands of South Carolina's pivotal role in war efforts past and present, and the deep personal sacrifice of so many of its residents, I stand to proclaim that South Carolina's Second Congressional District should be recognized as a ``Purple Heart District.''

As you know, The Purple Heart is one of the oldest and most recognized American military medals, awarded to service members who were killed or wounded by enemy action. In 1782, George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit to reward ``any singularly meritorious action'' displayed by a soldier, non-commissioned officer, or officer in the Continental Army. This award was intended to encourage gallantry and fidelity among soldiers. General Douglas MacArthur (then Army Chief of Staff) revived the award on February 22, 1932, the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. Since its inception and through several wars and conflicts, the Purple Heart has been given to more than a million wounded or killed while serving our nation.

South Carolina is home to a proud military tradition, from Fort Moultrie to recent deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Because of its unique location to include Fort Jackson and North Air Force Auxiliary Field, with adjacent Shaw Air Force Base, McEntire Joint Air Base, Parris Island Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Beaufort Marine Corps Air Station, Beaufort Naval Hospital, and Fort Gordon, the Second Congressional District of South Carolina is an ever-expanding center for military life. I am honored to represent these valiant men and women.

Mr. Speaker, South Carolina has dispatched thousands of its sons and daughters to fight the enemy, many have sacrificed their health and many have sacrificed their lives. We will never forget their sacrifices and are grateful for the valiant men and women who have been harmed defending their country and our freedom.

I ask that my colleagues to join me in recognition and appreciation of South Carolina's Purple Heart recipients past and present. Now, in the spirit of that appreciation, let it be known that South Carolina's Second Congressional District should be recognized as a ``Purple Heart District.''

Mr. Speaker, on Friday, May 2nd, funeral services were held for Nevin ``Neb'' William Whiteside, Jr. a patriot and veteran of the United States Navy who served his country with honor in the Korean War.

Funeral services for Mr. Whiteside were held at St. Peter's Lutheran Church of Lexington, South Carolina. As a testament to Mr. Whiteside's love of his country, funeral flowers were red, white, and blue with a patriotic theme throughout the service according to his wishes. Interment followed in the church graveyard.

His obituary in The Lexington County Chronicle newspaper contained this tribute:

Nevin ``Neb'' William Whiteside, Jr.

Mr. Whiteside was born November 28, 1929 in Leesville, SC,

and passed away on April 30, 2014. He was the son of the late

Nevin William Whiteside and Bertie Eargle Whiteside. Mr.

Whiteside served our country in the US Navy during the Korean

War. He retired from Kenan Transportation. He was a member of

St. Peter's Lutheran Church, VFW and Lexington Masonic Lodge

152. He loved to ride his Harley Davidson and enjoyed working

in the yard and cleaning his car. Mr. Whiteside is survived

by his wife, Barbara ``Bobbie'' Sox Whiteside, of Lexington;

sons, Stan and Wayne Whiteside of Lexington; daughter, Kim

(Tim) French of Lexington; grandchildren, Lauren, Andrew, and

Brandon Whiteside, Ashley (Bowe) Butler and Malia and Devin

French; great-grandchildren, Reece and Paxton Butler; sister,

Doris Goff of Saluda and man's best friend ``Bandit'',

(Poppy's Lil Buddy).

He is predeceased by his parents and his brother Horace

Whiteside.

Mr. Speaker, the American people have known since April 23, 2012, over 2 years ago, by a letter of 63 Members of Congress to the IRS Commissioner, that the IRS has targeted political organizations which question the President.

Congress has the responsibility to the American people to determine the facts and prevent future threats to American families. Sadly, the administration has refused to cooperate with House Republicans to facilitate oversight investigation. Instead of helping to restore the American people's faith in impartial government, key IRS officials remain silent.

Last night, the House voted to hold former IRS employee Lois Lerner in contempt because she refused to tell the truth before Congress. Congress also asked Attorney General Eric Holder to appoint a special counsel to further investigate this scandal.

The administration should take this opportunity to restore accountability, put politics aside, and help Congress provide citizens and the groups who are unfairly targeted with the answers they deserve.

In conclusion, God bless our troops and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. Speaker, the American people have lost faith in the administration.

When four of America's heroes were brutally murdered at the consulate in Benghazi, Libya, the President promised the families of the fallen that he would bring those responsible to justice and prevent a future attack.

Congress has held countless hearings to conduct oversight responsibilities for the last 19 months. Last week, a secret memo was discovered. Despite subpoenas, unanswered questions remain as to how the administration handled the attack.

We must continue to pursue every avenue to ensure all Americans remain safe from terrorist attacks at home and abroad. Because the administration continues to provide a misleading and duplicitous coverup, we owe it to those who have died for America to develop a select committee to continue the investigation of the Benghazi murders.

I am very grateful House Speaker John Boehner picked a proven prosecutor for the job. Congressman Trey Gowdy of South Carolina is most capable of forcing the administration to reveal the truth.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. Speaker, today, millions of Americans at home and around the world will gather together and pray for our nation in observance of the National Day of Prayer. More than 30,000 services will take place on the steps of county courthouses, in conference rooms of small businesses, and in church sanctuaries.

Since the first call to prayer by the Continental Congress in 1775, prayer has played a significant role in our history. Our forefathers founded this great nation on Christian principles. They believed that every American should be able to practice his or her faith freely and pray for wisdom and guidance for our country and its leaders.

Throughout our nation's challenges and achievements, the American people have united around prayer. Since President Harry Truman signed a Congressional resolution in 1952, we have come together on an annual basis to give thanks and ask God to bless our nation and the American people. I encourage every American to take time today and ask the Lord to guide our nation forward.

In conclusion, God Bless our Troops and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.