Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished service of the Honorable Betsy Figer Lambeth, whose dedication to justice and the people of Williamson County has left a lasting impact on Central Texas.

A fifth-generation Texan, Judge Lambeth earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin and her law degree from Texas Tech University School of Law. After beginning her legal career in Midland, she moved to Williamson County in 1987, where she built a respected practice in civil, family, juvenile, and child welfare law before opening her own firm in 1997.

In 2012, Judge Lambeth made history as the first woman elected district judge in Williamson County. Since taking the bench in 2013, she has served with fairness, integrity, and compassion. Her fellow judges elected her Local Administrative Judge of the Williamson County District Courts in 2015, recognizing her exceptional leadership.

Her dedication to public service extends beyond the bench through her longstanding involvement with organizations that strengthen the Williamson County community. She has served for many years on the Board of Directors of R.O.C.K. Ride On Center for Kids, an organization that enriches the lives of children and adults with disabilities through equine-assisted services. She has also supported local schools, civic organizations, and numerous community initiatives, demonstrating her enduring commitment to serving others both inside and outside the courtroom.

Mr. Speaker, Judge Betsy Lambeth's career reflects a steadfast commitment to justice, leadership, and public service. It is my honor to recognize her outstanding accomplishments and thank her for her years of faithful service to the people of Central Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life and service of Warrant Officer Seth L. Olmstead, a devoted soldier, husband, son, brother, and friend whose dedication to his family, community, and country will not be forgotten.

W.O. Olmstead pursued his lifelong dream of becoming a pilot when he entered the United States Army as a warrant officer candidate. He went on to become an AH-64 Apache pilot, serving at Fort Hood with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. During his time at Fort Hood, W.O. Olmstead served alongside fellow soldiers as part of the Army's aviation community, turning his lifelong passion for flying into a career dedicated to serving his country. Raised in Bell County, Texas, Mr. Olmstead graduated

from Harker Heights High School, where he formed lasting friendships and continued to develop an interest in aviation. His early enthusiasm for flying, along with the dedication and determination he demonstrated throughout his life, helped shape the path that would eventually lead him to military service.

Beyond his military service, Mr. Olmstead will be remembered for the love and joy he brought to those around him. W.O. Olmstead was deeply devoted to his wife, Lauren, and cherished the time he spent with his family and friends.

Warrant Officer 1 Seth Logan Olmstead demonstrated dedication to his country and those he loved. On behalf of a grateful community, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers, and I honor his life, service, and enduring legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Lieutenant General Kevin D. Admiral on his nomination to serve as the next Commanding General of United States Army Europe-Africa, Allied Land Command, NATO, Germany.

For the people of Central Texas, Lt. Gen. Admiral's departure is especially significant. He first served as the Commanding General of the 1st Cavalry Division and later as the Commanding General of III Armored Corps and Fort Hood, where he oversaw one of the Army's premier armored formations.

Throughout his tenure, Lt. Gen. Admiral made readiness and taking care of people central to his leadership, emphasizing a combat-ready force while ensuring soldiers, civilians, and families had the support they needed. He also strengthened Fort Hood's relationship with communities throughout Central Texas, recognizing the installation's importance not only to our military but to the entire region. His professionalism, accessibility, and commitment to mission success have left a lasting impression, and his leadership will be greatly missed.

I have had the privilege of knowing and working closely with Lt. Gen. Admiral during his time at Fort Hood, and I can attest that the pride he took in building a ready force there was matched only by his humility in leading it. That same standard of excellence did not go unnoticed in Washington. The job he and his soldiers did at Fort Hood helped bring him to the attention of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, paving the way for his new mission leading U.S. Army Europe-Africa. It has been an honor to call him a friend and a partner in service to Central Texas.

On behalf of the people of Texas' 31st Congressional District, I thank Lt. Gen. Admiral for his distinguished service to Fort Hood, Central Texas, and our Nation. I congratulate him on this well-deserved opportunity and wish him, his family, and the soldiers under his command continued success in this important new assignment.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life and service of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Deontre Trevon Huey, a dedicated soldier, aviator, father, brother and son whose life was guided by service, leadership, and an enduring commitment to his family and country.

In 2014, Chief Huey began his military career as an 88M Transportation Operator, marking the start of 12 years of dedicated service to our Nation. He served at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Fort Bragg, and Fort Hood. Seeking a new direction in his military career, he attended Warrant Officer Candidate School and pursued his goal of becoming an Army aviator. In February 2022, he began serving as an AH- 64E Apache pilot at Fort Hood. Through flying, Chief Huey found a true passion that brought him great pride and fulfillment.

A proud native of Killeen, Texas, Chief Huey graduated from Killeen High School, where he displayed leadership on and off the football field. He later attended Temple College and Oklahoma Panhandle State University. A gifted artist, his love for drawing was another reflection of the passion and creativity he brought to his life.

Above all, Chief Huey will be remembered for the love and joy he brought to those around him. He leaves behind his children, Naomi Victoria and Ezekeial Titus; his parents, Velvet Dancer-Huey and Douglas Huey; his brothers; and many family members and friends.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Deontre Trevon Huey represented the very best of service, leadership, and dedication to our Nation. His legacy will live on through his family, fellow soldiers, and the place he proudly called home. On behalf of a grateful community, I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends, and I honor his life, his service, and his legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Centennial of Temple College, an institution whose century of service has provided educational opportunities, supported generations of students, and made a lasting impact through Central Texas.

Founded in 1926 as Temple Junior College, the institution first held classes in the basement of Temple High School under its first president, Major Joseph S. Cook. Established through the efforts of civic, business, and education leaders, the college provided students with greater access to higher education closer to home.

From its earliest years, Temple College remained dedicated to providing students with a quality education. Despite the challenges of the Great Depression and World War II, Temple College continued to grow expanding its academic programs and establishing its own campus in south Temple. As Temple College enters its second century, it continues to grow and expand opportunities for students across Central Texas. With new facilities supporting a variety of academic and workforce programs, students have greater opportunities to learn and prepare for their futures. Temple College has also expanded its academic offerings, providing students with additional pathways to continue their education and pursue their career goals.

I am honored to congratulate Temple College on its 100th Anniversary and recognize its lasting contributions to Central Texas, now serving more than 8,600 students and offering more than 80 associate degree and certificate programs while supporting veterans and military-connected students. I commend the faculty, staff, students, and alumni who have shaped the College over the past century and wish Temple College continued success for the next hundred years.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sid Schmidt on his distinguished leadership as the Deputy Chief Financial Officer and Acting Chief Financial Officer of NASA.

Mr. Schmidt began his NASA career as an intern and rose, through decades of hard work, all the way to Deputy and Acting Chief Financial Officer, speaking to a rare kind of dedication, not just to his own advancement, but to the mission of NASA and to our Nation. After his internship, Mr. Schmidt joined NASA full-time as a resource analyst supporting human spaceflight initiatives at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. Over a remarkable career spanning several decades, he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance from Texas A&M University before completing both Master of Business Administration and Doctor of Jurisprudence degrees at the University of Houston. He stepped into progressively greater leadership roles, serving as Manager for the Space Operations Resource Management Office, Resources Manager for the International Space Station, Chief of NASA Johnson's Central Budget Office, and eventually as CFO at Johnson Space Center.

As NASA's Acting Chief Financial Officer and Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Schmidt directed financial operations, managing more than 1,600 personnel and overseeing NASA's $24.4 billion portfolio. His career is defined by strategic leadership and dedicated public service, including assignments as Loaned Executive to the Houston Technology Center, Associate Director of the EVA Management Office, and Dean of CFO University.

As the senior appropriator for the State of Texas, I understand firsthand how demanding a role of this magnitude truly is, and I have great respect for the discipline it takes to manage a portfolio of this size responsibly on behalf of the American taxpayer. Sid Schmidt represents the very best of Texas through his unwavering dedication and hard work. It is a distinct honor to help celebrate the retirement of a dedicated public servant whose work has done so much for our Nation's space programs, and I wish him nothing but the best in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Centex Technologies as it celebrates 20 years of innovation, growth, and service to the people and businesses of Central Texas.

Founded in 2006, Centex Technologies has grown from a local computer consulting firm into a leading provider of information technology, cybersecurity, software development, digital marketing, and government solutions. For two decades, the company has remained committed to delivering innovative technology services while helping businesses and government agencies meet the demands of an evolving digital world.

Throughout its history, Centex Technologies has continually expanded its capabilities and presence, opening offices in Dallas, Atlanta, and Austin while broadening its services to better support both private industry and government partners. The company launched its Government Division, established the Texas A&M Forensics Lab to advance cybersecurity and digital forensics, and earned recognition on the Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies. Its commitment to excellence is further demonstrated through the acquisition of GSA and SeaPort NxG contract vehicles, ISO 9001:2015 certification, and CMMC Level 2 certification.

These achievements reflect Centex Technologies' dedication to innovation, quality, and exceptional service. Over the past 20 years, the company has strengthened Texas' technology sector, created jobs, and delivered valuable solutions to businesses and government agencies alike. The leadership and economic impact Centex Technologies has brought to Central Texas continue to benefit the region and inspire future innovation.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the leadership and employees of Centex Technologies on this remarkable milestone and thank them for their continued contributions to Central Texas and our Nation. I wish them continued success for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mark Silbert, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, engineer, and community leader whose life was defined by intellect, integrity, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to those around him.

Mark's pursuit of knowledge and excellence led him to earn advanced degrees in Physical

Oceanography and Engineering before beginning a distinguished career with ExxonMobil. As a Project Manager, he played a key role in overseeing the design and construction of offshore platforms, earning the respect of his colleagues through his expertise, leadership, and dedication. After retiring in 2006, Mark and his beloved wife, Rosa, made Santa Fe their home, where he continued to be an active and valued member of his community.

Throughout his life, Mark embraced every opportunity to learn, compete, and connect with others. A talented athlete, he captained New York University's swim team and enjoyed a lifelong passion for sports, including tennis, fly fishing, and golf. His love of golf led him to serve as Chairman of the Golf Committee, where his commitment and enthusiasm left a lasting impression and the game became a cherished bond he shared with his sons, David and Glenn, and his grandson, Jack.

A proud Brooklyn native, Mark shared 58 beautiful years of marriage with Rosa, his childhood sweetheart. Together, they built a life filled with love, adventure, and cherished memories while living abroad and exploring the world. Above all, Mark's greatest joy was his family, and he was a devoted father and proud grandfather of six.

Mark's legacy of excellence, generosity, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him. It is my honor to recognize his remarkable life and extend my deepest condolences to Rosa, his family, and all who mourn his passing.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of William ``Wallace'' Vernon, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, businessman, and community leader whose life exemplified faith, integrity, and selfless service.

Born in Snyder, Texas, Wallace developed the values of hard work, humility, and leadership that guided him throughout his life. After earning his degree from Texas Tech University, he became a Certified Public Accountant and built a distinguished career with Lott, Vernon & Company, retiring as a respected partner in 2006. Even in retirement, he remained active as a business owner, investor, and mentor.

Wallace's greatest passion was serving others. A faithful member of First Baptist Church of Killeen, he devoted decades of leadership to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Texas, helping expand opportunities for thousands of young people. In recognition of his extraordinary commitment, he received the Boys & Girls Clubs of America's Champion of Youth Award in 2011. His service also extended to numerous civic organizations, medical mission trips, and disaster relief efforts, reflecting his lifelong dedication to strengthening his community.

Together with his beloved wife of 62 years, Emmadell, Wallace built a home rooted in faith, generosity, and service. He treasured his family and found great joy in encouraging his children and grandchildren, always leading by

example. Wallace is survived by his son, William Vernon, Jr.; his daughters, Katherine Barksdale and Patricia Cummins; eight beloved grandchildren; his sister, Kathi Crump; his brother, Kenneth Vernon; and many extended family members and friends.

Mr. Speaker, Wallace Vernon's legacy lives on through the family he loved, the community he served, and the countless lives he touched with his faith and leadership. It is my honor to recognize his remarkable life and extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.

Mr. Speaker, Colonel Gary D. Dennett (Ret.) has devoted his life to service to this country, through thirty-one years in uniform and thirty-one concurrent years with the Department of Defense, and through his continued commitment to our veterans and the Central Texas community. It is my privilege to honor him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Colonel Dennett began his military career in 1958 and served in the United States Army, the Kansas National Guard, and the Army Reserves until his retirement in 1989. During his career he served in Germany, and after Ranger School deployed to Vietnam as an advisor to the Army Republic of Vietnam (ARVN). After attending OCS and receiving his commission as an officer in the Army National Guard, he continued his distinguished service in the Army Reserves where he held various command positions at every level. During his military career he was awarded the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star for Valor, Army Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Superior Unit Commendation, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal, along with numerous campaign and service ribbons.

After retiring from the Army Reserves, Colonel Dennett continued to dedicate himself to honoring veterans and service the community. He is a longstanding member of the Williamson County Veterans Memorial Advisory Group, which established and continues to maintain and conduct ceremonies at the Veterans Memorial Plaza in Georgetown, Texas. He remains active as a life member in organizations such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War (VFW), and Military Order of World Wars (MOWW), serving in various officer positions at the state and local level.

Colonel Dennett has been a leader, mentor, and steadfast advocate for veterans and their families. His service and efforts have ensured that the sacrifices of our Nation's service members are honored and remembered with dignity and respect.

On behalf of the United States House of Representatives, I extend my deepest gratitude to Colonel Gary D. Dennett for his faithful service to our Nation and his lifelong dedication to others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Staff Sergeant Kristin Davis of the Burnet County Sheriff's Office for her dedicated service to the people of Burnet County and Central Texas, on her retirement.

For more than 22 years, Staff Sergeant Davis has served her community with professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. She began her career with the Burnet County Sheriff's Office at just 19 years old as a dispatcher. Over the years, she has served in nearly every facet of the department, including as a jailer, patrol deputy, patrol corporal, Criminal Investigations Division investigator, and Administrative Staff Sergeant. Her career is a testament to her work ethic and her willingness to serve wherever she was needed.

Those who know her best often say she grew up in the Burnet County Sheriff's Office, and after more than two decades of service, it is easy to see why. She has dedicated her career to protecting her community and supporting those around her.

Mr. Speaker, public servants like Staff Sergeant Kristin Davis make our communities stronger and safer. Her leadership, professionalism, and dedication have earned the respect of her colleagues and the gratitude of the people she serves.

On behalf of the people of Texas's 31st Congressional District, I thank Staff Sergeant Davis for her years of faithful service and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition. I wish her all the best in the years to come and thank her for the example she has set for others who choose a life of public service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Eva Charlotte Hahn, whose extraordinary journey embodied courage, resilience, faith, and an unwavering love of freedom.

Born in 1938 in Jihlava, Czechoslovakia, Eva's childhood was shaped by the hardships of World War II and the rise of communism. She witnessed the brutality of Nazi occupation, including her father's imprisonment for helping Jewish friends, and later fled her homeland with her family to escape communist oppression. After spending time in a refugee camp in Austria, she emigrated to Australia before ultimately making her home in the United States.

Eva's determination carried her through every chapter of her life. She excelled academically, contributed to the production of Australia's first Salk polio vaccine, and later worked in medical research after settling in San Antonio, Texas. She married Dr. H. Herbert Hahn, II, and together they served abroad while he practiced medicine with the United States Foreign Service before making Temple, Texas, their permanent home.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Eva dedicated herself to her family and community. She volunteered in local schools and civic organizations, believing deeply in the principles of liberty, education, and personal responsibility. She was also a successful businesswoman, an avid reader, a gifted storyteller, and a gracious hostess whose warmth and generosity touched everyone she met.

Eva is survived by her four children, fifteen grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, her sister, and many extended family members who will carry forward her legacy of faith, perseverance, and patriotism.

Eva Hahn's remarkable life stands as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit. It is my honor to recognize her extraordinary legacy, one year after her passing, and to extend my deepest sympathies to her family and all who mourn her absence.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Corporal Donald Ray Simons, a United States Army veteran who served his Nation with honor and who will be laid to rest with the dignity and military honors he earned through his faithful service.

Corporal Simons answered the call to serve by enlisting in the United States Army, where he served honorably from July 18, 1958, to July 17, 1961. During his time in uniform, he faithfully carried out his responsibilities with professionalism and integrity, embodying the courage and commitment that defines America's Soldiers. His service reflects the enduring values of honor, duty, and patriotism that have long distinguished the men and women of the United States Army.

While we may not know every chapter of Corporal Simons' life, we know this: when his country called, he answered. He wore the uniform with pride, served honorably, and earned the enduring gratitude of the Nation he defended.

Today, his name stands as testimony, so that future generations may know his service and remember his name. No veteran's sacrifice should fade from our memory. On behalf of the people of Texas's 31st Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude and respect for his service and his sacrifice.

May Corporal Donald Ray Simons rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire all who cherish the freedoms secured by those who serve.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of my dear friend Donald ``Don'' Kent, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Marine, entrepreneur, artist, and faithful servant whose life reflected the values of faith, family, and service.

Born in Norfolk, Virginia, Don lived a life defined by integrity and hard work. He proudly served our Nation in the United States Marine Corps, where he developed the discipline and resilience that guided him throughout his life. Following his military service, he attended the University of Maryland before embarking on a successful career as an entrepreneur.

Don also dedicated 25 years to his passion for art. Alongside his beloved wife, Jo Ann, he traveled the country sharing his artwork and touching countless lives through his creativity, warmth, and kindness. I am proud to have his paintings hanging in my home and office, daily reminders of his talent and of our friendship. Known for his quick wit and generous spirit, Don lived out his faith through humility, compassion, and service to others.

Our families grew close through our sons, who have been best friends for years, and I came to know Don not only as a talented artist but as a man of remarkable warmth and character. His friendship was a gift to me and my family, and his loss is felt deeply.

Don Kent's legacy of service, generosity, and unwavering love will live on through his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him. I extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones as they honor his remarkable life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Sergeant James Dawson, a proud World War II veteran whose courage, selflessness, and devotion to our Nation exemplified the highest ideals of American service.

Born in Higgins, Texas, on March 21, 1921, Sergeant James Dawson answered the call to serve during World War II with unwavering dedication. His extraordinary bravery earned him the World War II Victory Medal after he courageously saved the lives of two fellow servicemembers, placing their safety above his own in the face of grave danger. Sergeant James Dawson embodied what it means to be an American. Through his sacrifice, courage, and steadfast commitment to others, he demonstrated the values that have long defined our Nation's Greatest Generation. His actions serve as a lasting reminder of the selfless service and heroism displayed by so many who fought to preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.

On behalf of the 31st Congressional District of Texas, I extend my deepest gratitude for Sergeant James Dawson's faithful service to our country and honor the remarkable life he lived. May his legacy of courage, patriotism, and sacrifice continue to inspire generations to come.