Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I'm honored to celebrate and recognize the extraordinary work of Lawman Mike Davis. His decades of dedication to Central Texas reflect the hard work and commitment of an admirable public servant.

A native Texan, boy scout, sheriff, and Marine, Mike, as both a law enforcement officer and district attorney has lived a life devoted to ideas and causes bigger than himself. As a former judge, I know firsthand the essential role police officers and district attorneys play in maintaining law and order. Despite the challenges, they carry on, strengthened by their resolve to protect and serve. Whether working to serve big cities or small towns, they help preserve our way of life and are the shields that guard us from those lost souls who wish harm to others.

While Mike isn't tired of the privilege of service he knows that everything has its season and the time has come to allow the next generation of leaders to take the stage. Stepping away from work won't give him much idle time as he remains a vital part of the Central Texas community and will spend more time with his beloved wife Debbie and their family.

Retirement is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new adventure. It is my honor to recognize the selfless service of Mike Davis as he starts this new chapter of his life. On behalf of Central Texas, I thank him for his superb work and wish him the very best.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to salute the 40- year career of Walt Jordan, Vice President of Governmental Affairs for Oncor Electric Delivery, as he celebrates his well-deserved retirement at the end of December. This native Texan has made lasting impacts on one of our nations most critical industries and has played a key role in ensuring Texas continues to lead in energy innovation and delivery.

With his ``can-do'' spirit, genuine personality, and high-minded vision, Walt has been a trusted leader and a fierce advocate for common-sense energy policies not only in Texas but also in Washington, D.C. During his four decades with Oncor, the largest transmission and distribution electric utility in Texas, he brought his tremendous work ethic and commitment to excellence to every challenge his company and state encountered.

Heavily involved in the Texas utility industry since 1982, Walt made critical contributions to restructure the Texas electricity market, support renewable energy generation, and enhance infrastructure investments. With a ``no task too big'' approach, Walt shouldered a variety of responsibilities across his illustrious career and has made lasting impacts on this critical industry for the next generation of Texans.

Retirement is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new adventure. It is my honor to recognize the service of Walt Jordan as he starts this new chapter of his life alongside his beloved wife Kim and son Luke. On behalf of Central Texas, I thank him for his superb work and wish him the very best.

Madam Speaker, I'm honored to celebrate and recognize the extraordinary work of John Crutchfield. His eighteen years dedication to his beloved city of Killeen are the reflection of a true and devoted public servant.

With his ``can-do'' spirit and high-minded vision, John is a trusted community leader. He brought his tremendous work ethic and commitment to excellence to every challenge he encountered.

As President/CEO of the Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce, John won numerous awards and spearheaded many critical projects over the decades such as Texas A&M University Central, Interstate 14, business recruitment, the research park, as well as protecting and growing Fort Hood. He also had a part in setting up the Fort Hood Regional Economic Development Foundation. It's public servants like him that make Killeen the welcoming, successful city that it is.

While John isn't tired of the privilege of public service he knows that everything has its season and the time has come to allow the next generation of leaders to take the stage. Stepping away from his office won't give him much idle time as he remains a vital part of the Central Texas community and will spend more time with his beloved wife Sheila and their family.

Retirement is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new adventure. It is my honor to recognize the selfless service of John Crutchfield as he starts this new chapter of his life. On behalf of Central Texas, I thank him for his superb work and wish him the very best.

Madam Speaker, I'm honored to celebrate and recognize the extraordinary work of Major General Pat Hamilton as he transitions into his richly-deserved retirement. His dedication to our beloved nation and his community in Round Rock, Texas is the reflection of a true and devoted public servant.

With his altruistic spirit and high-minded vision, MG Hamilton is a trusted leader and proud warrior. Throughout his military career, he brought his tremendous talents and commitment to excellence to every challenge he encountered. His extraordinary work did not go unnoticed as he was awarded our nation's highest honors, including the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star Medal. His efforts have been critical in maintaining the U.S. military's reputation as the world's greatest fighting force.

MG Hamilton's commitment to investing his gifts, talents, and abilities to improve his community is a deeply held creed that speaks to the generosity and activism of a true and devoted public servant. His resume tells the story of a man unafraid to contribute both his time and energies to a multitude of organizations that rely on volunteerism and social engagement to make good communities great. His commitment to public service represents the best values of Central Texas.

Retirement is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new adventure. It is my honor to recognize the selfless service of Major General Pat Hamilton as he starts this new chapter of his life. On behalf of Central Texas, I thank him for his superb work and wish him the very best.

Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor Lieutenant Richard W. Yarling, U.S. Navy, retired, of Jarrell, Texas as he celebrates his 100th birthday on October 18. Throughout his long life, LT Yarling has exemplified not only the best in service to his country, but to his community as well.

Many go through life wondering if they've made a difference. LT Yarling doesn't have that problem. During WWII, he bravely served in the Navy aboard one of the 175 Fletcher Class destroyers, the U.S.S. Chauncey. His fearless support of our country's interests abroad serves as a clear testament to his dedication to our great nation and to his commitment to serving others.

After completing years of tremendous service to his country, he went on to graduate from law school. He continued to serve his community, retiring as a Judge Advocate Corp officer. His work speaks to the devoted and generous spirit of a man who puts the needs of others before those of himself.

Over his incredible life, LT Yarling witnessed his nation's brave soldiers defend freedom on foreign shores, watched a humble midwesterner take mankind's first steps on another world, and marveled at technological advances beyond any of his dreams. He saw how America has been defined by extraordinary men and women who fought to make our nation a beacon of hope and freedom, always willing to learn from the past, confront the challenges of the present, and hopeful enough to embrace a better tomorrow.

I join LT Yarling's friends and family in applauding the work and service he has provided. I wish him the happiest of birthdays and nothing but health and prosperity in the years ahead.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Travis L. Thomas who became an angel on September 21, 2021. As we reflect on his extraordinary life, my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.

Travis dedicated his life to defending our country, keeping the streets safe, and improving his community. After fighting in the Korean War, Travis returned home and continued his life of service with the Department of Public Safety, serving in the Burnet police force before finishing his career as the police chief of both Georgetown and Luling. His devotion to law and order resulted in safer communities that residents are proud to call home.

Travis was a stellar and committed volunteer following his retirement in 1998, contributing his considerable talents and energies to a broad array of causes. Travis will be especially remembered for how much he loved the City of Burnet where he was involved in a multitude of civic organizations that allowed him to use his abilities to make Burnet the pride of Central Texas.

While I join Travis Thomas's family and friends in mourning his passing, the positive impacts he had on the lives of others will remain in our hearts forever. His presence was a blessing for all who knew him.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Sergeant Theodore Acheson, U.S. Army for his service to both the Army and to causes greater than himself. Throughout his life, he has fought for freedom and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others.

As a photographer with the mission to provide unvarnished images of combat, SGT Acheson served in a unique capacity in the Vietnam War, neighboring Thailand, and Korea. Often exposed to enemy fire, he captured gripping images of our nation's heroes. His work, often featured in news broadcasts and publications, combined the skill of a photojournalist committed to capturing life in the moment with the eye of an artist.

Following the end of his military service, SGT Acheson moved to Georgetown, TX where he continued contributing his considerable talents and energies to improving the lives of others through his membership and service in numerous charitable organizations supporting young leaders, education, and veterans. A Purple Heart recipient himself, SGT Acheson was instrumental in having Georgetown designated as the First Purple Heart City in Texas. Thanks to his tireless efforts, Georgetown has made it easier for veterans to get the health services they have earned and reminds our heroes that they are not alone nor forgotten. SGT Acheson's commitment to stand by and support our nation's veterans and their families exemplifies the very best of Texas values.

I commend SGT Theodore Acheson's incredible service to the Army, his nation, and his community. His patriotism, citizenship, and devotion to others makes him a worthy recipient of a Congressional Veterans Commendation.

Madam Speaker, I'm honored to present Lieutenant Colonel John E. Byrne, Jr., U.S. Army, Retired with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. It is a privilege to salute an exemplary soldier and citizen for his lifetime of service.

In his nearly three decades of military service, LTC Byrne served across the globe, including overseas during the Vietnam War. Throughout his years of duty, he deservedly received numerous military honors. Among these are the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and the Vietnamese Armed Forces Honor Medal. His fearless support of our country's interests serves as a clear testament to his dedication to our great nation and to his commitment to serving others regardless of their nationality or origins.

LTC Byrne closed out 27 years of military service in 1996. Since then, he has become an avid volunteer. He has exemplified great altruism in lifting up his community, from donating more than 100 units of blood, to serving as a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus, to donating a kidney to a friend. He also remains active within St. John Vianney Catholic Church and selflessly spent eight years on its Finance Committee. One of his most admirable acts of service is his role as a Victim Service Advocate where he provides comfort to victims of tragedy and death. As he did during his military service, he has worked tirelessly to put others first.

I commend LTC Byrne's selfless service to his community and nation. His patriotism, citizenship, and commitment to excellence are among of his many commendable qualities that make him so deserving of this award. I join his friends and family in celebrating his outstanding achievements, and I thank him for his service.

Madam Speaker, I'm honored to present Sergeant First Class

Ken Cates, U.S. Army and U.S. Coast Guard, Retired with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and devotion to the military, his nation, and his community speak to the best of our Texas' altruistic spirit.

Heeding the call to serve, SFC Cates entered the military in 1988. During this time, he completed many heroic missions which included over 120 emergency combat responses as Operations Center Manager, 150 coordinated executive leader engagement missions, and 15 natural disaster responses. Throughout his military career, he applied his tremendous talents and energies to the defense of our great nation.

SFC Cates closed out twenty-seven years of military service in 2015. While many would embrace a life of retirement, he still displays his loyal and selfless nature by providing aid to Veterans in the Fort Hood Area. SFC Cates currently works for the Fort Hood Area Habitat for Humanity and is working to support a veterans housing establishment in his area. His commitment to investing his gifts, talents, and abilities to improve his community has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, Cates was named a ``Hometown Hero'' by the Harker Heights Chamber of Commerce and the 2019 NEXEN Hero.

I proudly join SFC Ken Cates' friends, family, and colleagues in saluting his selfless service to the military and his beloved Texas home. His work brings to life Gandhi's words. that ``The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.'' I congratulate SFC Ken Cates and than him for his service.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to present Captain Richard J. Archer, U.S. Army with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and devotion to the Army, his nation, and his community speak to why CPT Archer is an ideal recipient of the Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Fulfilling the call to serve, CPT Archer first began his service in 1966 after graduating and commissioning from Central Michigan University's ROTC program. He continued to command ``C'' Company during his assignment at the 2nd Armored Division at Fort Hood and later served with the 13th Corps Support Command before being honorably discharged from the Army.

CPT Archer closed out nine years of military service in 1975, and since then he has distinguished himself as a valuable community member in Temple, TX. While many would choose to take time for themselves, CPT Archer continues to employ his talents to his community. His public service and devotion to others include, but are not limited to, his involvement with the Marine Corps Junior ROTC program at Belton High School, his membership with the 13th COSCOM Association, his representation on the Veteran's Land Board for 21 counties, and the aid he provided by establishing various associations and groups like Emeritus Medicus. His allegiance to investing his talents and abilities to help better his community and nation represents the best of Texas values.

I proudly join CPT Richard J. Archers' friends, family, and colleagues in saluting his selfless service to the Army and Central Texas. His life and career reflect hard work and dedication to what is best for his fellow man.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of First Sergeant Gene Davenport, U.S. Army, Retired, and recognize him for the Congressional Veteran Commendation. His resume tells the story of one unafraid to do whatever it takes to support his fellow man.

1SG Davenport dedicated 20 years of his life to defending our country, which included two tours in Vietnam. In recognition of these unselfish efforts throughout his career, he received numerous military honors, including a Bronze Star, a Vietnamese Gallantry Cross with Palm, 5 Army Commendation Medal, and 6 Good Conduct Medals. His support of our country's interests abroad serves as a clear testament to his dedication to our great nation.

1SG Davenport has been a stellar and committed volunteer in every one of his communities following his active-duty service. He's given his considerable talents and energies to a broad array of organizations and causes, ranging from officiating high school football games, volunteering at local hospitals, and mentoring tomorrow's leaders, to supporting his fellow warriors in the Marine Corps League and the Leander VFW Post 10427 where he's worked tirelessly to support veterans in need.

I join 1SG Davenport's friends and family in celebrating his selfless service to both his community and nation. He is a worthy recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to present Sergeant Major Rodney Wayne Gilchrist, U.S. Army, Retired with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. SGM Gilchrist embodies the true meaning of selflessness, which is evident through his service and commitment to our nation as well as his community.

SGM Gilchrist first began his service in 1986. During this time, he completed a multitude of tasks that have displayed his allegiance to our nation. His profound leadership skills are indicated by roles during his service such as the Advanced Noncommissioned Officers Course Small Group Leader for his Military Occupational Specialty. This position speaks to the innate craftsmanship of his leadership skills, as he mentored and trained 175 Senior Noncommissioned Officers to a ninety-nine percent graduation rate.

SGM Gilchrist closed out 24 years of military service in 2010 but continued to contribute his time to the people of his community. His devotion is exhibited in countless ways, but one of the most notable acts to his community is his creation of the Liberty Christian Center of Killeen. As pastor, he has guided this center to be of service to community members of Killeen, giving free haircuts, clothing, and meals to any person in need. As a man of deep faith, SGM Gilchrist's commitment to investing his talents, and abilities to improve his community is a deeply held creed that speaks to the generosity and activism of a truly devoted public servant.

I proudly join SGM Rodney Wayne Gilchrist's' family, friends, and colleagues in saluting his selfless service to the military and Texas. His work has made a real and lasting difference in the lives of his fellow citizens.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to present Captain Joseph F. Kiefer, Jr., U.S. Air Force with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Throughout his life, he's worked to put the needs and interests of others first.

During his years of military service, Capt. Kiefer held multiple vital positions. He served in Vietnam as part of the 2nd Aerial Port Group, displaying meticulous attention and professionalism in his work. He went on to distinguish himself as the Chief of Tactical Operations Branch at Langley Air Force Base where his outstanding leadership was known to directly enhance the readiness posture of all active duty assigned to the Tactical Air Command.

Along with defending our nation, public service has been a driving force in Capt. Kiefer's life. A pillar of Central Texas, he dedicates his time and energies to his local community with roles ranging from a Narcotics and Criminal Investigator to President of the Temple Lions Parks and Charities. It's true and devoted public servants like Capt. Kiefer that make Central Texas a great place to call home.

I commend Capt. Kiefer's selfless service to his community and nation. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation and I celebrate his service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Rear Admiral David Lee Maserang, U.S. Navy, Retired, who has dedicated his life to the Navy and health community alike. A humanitarian, leader, and patriot, it is my honor to award him with the Congressional Veteran Commendation.

During his 34 years of military service, RADM Maserang directed numerous health initiatives in the United States, Africa, and many other countries that bettered communities around the globe. Additionally, RADM Maserang used his expertise to enhance homeland security by increasing preparedness for chemical and biological attacks. These contributions, and many others, have been invaluable, with lasting effects felt around the world.

Today, he continues his lifelong devotion to service through community volunteerism with

organizations such as the United States Naval Academy, the First United Methodist Church, and the Rotary Club. He has spearheaded efforts to support the next generation of warriors, our veterans, and the young people of Texas. His leadership and commitment to excellence exemplify the highest ideals of service.

I commend RADM Maserang's selfless work on behalf of his community and nation. His patriotism, citizenship, and commitment to excellence are unmatched. I join his friends and family in celebrating his outstanding achievements, and I thank him for his service.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jason Shaw, U.S. Army, Retired for the Congressional Veteran Commendation. His life and career reflect hard work, activism, and dedication to what is best for Central Texas.

CW2 Shaw spent 20 years serving our country, spending time in both Iraq and Afghanistan. As a pilot, he was an invaluable asset to his unit, the task force, and the brigade. His contributions and dedication to our nation cannot be overstated. As a pilot he was invaluable and, at every step along the way, his talents and work ethic were devoted to the protection of our nation.

Upon retirement from the Army, CW2 Shaw committed his energies to community service. He is a Life Member of VFW Post 10472 and is active in the Leander Chamber of Commerce. He has worked tirelessly to ensure residents have a rich quality of life by using his expert knowledge on the city's water supply and infrastructure to ensure the long-term growth of the city, which he holds near to his heart. His legacy speaks to the highest values we Texans hold dear.

I proudly join CW2 Jason Shaw's friends, family, and colleagues in saluting his selfless service to the Army and Texas. He is a local treasure, a champion for others, and a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation.