Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I commend Tim Mikeska for being named Taylor's Outstanding Citizen. This well-deserved honor recognizes a lifetime of tireless service and outstanding contributions to the City of Taylor and the Central Texas community.

Tim's commitment to public service is reflected in his leadership on the Taylor City Council, the Williamson County Health District Board, the Taylor Economic Development Corporation, and the Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce. His efforts have helped build a stronger, more resilient community where families and businesses can flourish.

As CEO of Mikeska's Bar-B-Q Inc., Tim has carried on a proud family tradition bringing the bold flavors of Texas barbecue to tables across the country, and even internationally to Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the United Kingdom. His work has earned national recognition through features on Food Nation on the Food Network, The CBS Early Show, and the Travel Channel.

Beyond the restaurant, Tim is a licensed EMT-Paramedic, instructor, and adjunct professor in Emergency Medical Services. In 1982, he founded the Taylor Heartsaver program, which has taught CPR to over 400 residents of east Williamson County, He also serves as a Command Pilot with Angel Flight South Central, Air Care Alliance, and Pilots N Paws, where he volunteers his time and aircraft to transport patients and animals in need of medical care.

Tim Mikeska's legacy speaks to the highest values we Texans hold dear. Through financial contributions, spiritual guidance, and feeding those in need, Tim's legacy will be felt for generations. I join the City of Taylor, his family, and all of Central Texas in congratulating him on this well-deserved honor. I thank him for a lifetime of service and wish him continued success and blessings in the years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I salute the life and legacy of 1st Lieutenant Charles W. ``Woody'' McCook, a World War II hero and devoted patriot, who joined the angels in July of 1948. His courage, sacrifice, and unwavering sense of duty exemplify the very best of the American spirit. Though decades have passed since his final mission, his story continues to inspire all who cherish freedom and understand the cost of preserving it.

Affectionately known as ``Woody'' to his loved ones and fellow service members, Lt. McCook served as the pilot of a B-25C Mitchell aircraft during the Second World War. Answering his Nation's call, he bravely flew into the dangerous jungles of Japanese-occupied Burma, now known as Myanmar. His missions were perilous, often requiring low- altitude attacks and precise coordination in an environment where survival was never guaranteed.

For 82 years, Lt. McCook was listed as Missing in Action. Thanks to the tireless efforts of military recovery teams, his remains have finally returned home to Georgetown, Texas, where his family and community, after decades of unanswered questions, can now lay him to rest with the honor and dignity he earned.

Lt. McCook's service reminds us that freedom is not free. It is secured through the bravery of those willing to give everything in its defense. His return brings long-awaited closure to his family and a renewed appreciation from his country. As we mourn the passing of Lt. McCook, his presence was a blessing to all who knew him. The positive impact he had on the lives of others will live on and remain forever in our hearts.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize the Round Rock High School Marine Corps JROTC Academics Team, who achieved a historic first-place finish at the 2025 JROTC Leadership and Academic Bowl (JLAB) National Championship. This marks the first time a Marine Corps JROTC team has captured the overall national title across all service branches, and the first time a team from Round Rock has earned this distinction.

JLAB 2025 began in November 2024 with 3,543 JROTC programs from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. After months of rigorous online competition, only the top teams advanced to the national championship at Catholic University in Washington, D.C. Though Round Rock initially ranked ninth among Marine Corps programs, just outside the qualifying cutoff, an unexpected opening allowed them to compete. They went on to win the Marine Corps division and then defeat the champions from every other branch to claim the national title.

Their victory was the result of months of disciplined preparation, including weekly practices, competition simulations, and intense review of past contest materials. Under the leadership of retired Marine Master Gunnery Sergeant Olmeda, who served 23 years on active duty and is now in his eighth year teaching JROTC, cadets Niveda Swamynathan, Khushal Jalagam, Sylvia Marrone, and Ishaan Chokshi demonstrated exceptional dedication, teamwork, and academic excellence.

On behalf of the United States House of Representatives, I congratulate the Round Rock High School Marine Corps JROTC Academics Team, who have made Central Texas proud through their perseverance and groundbreaking achievement.

Mr. Speaker, I proudly recognize Susan Kamas for her remarkable career and decades of service to the people of Central Texas. After fifty years in the workforce development field, including thirty-seven years leading Workforce Solutions of Central Texas, Susan retired in February 2025, leaving behind a legacy of visionary leadership and community impact.

Under her direction, Workforce Solutions of Central Texas became a statewide and national model for excellence in connecting job seekers, employers, and educators. Managing a $45 million annual budget, Susan built partnerships that strengthened the regional economy and expanded opportunities across Bell, Coryell, Hamilton, Lampasas, Milam, Mills, and San Saba counties. Her leadership also positioned the organization as a vital resource for veterans and military families in the Fort Hood (formerly Fort Cavazos) community.

Susan's influence extended well beyond Central Texas. She served as Co-Chair of the U.S. Department of Labor Enterprise Council, a founding member of the Coalition of State Workforce Associations, and an active member of organizations such as the Association of the United States Army and Rotary Club of Belton.

Her lifelong dedication has inspired initiatives such as the Susan Kamas Endowed Scholarship at Temple College, ensuring her legacy continues to benefit future generations.

On behalf of the United States House of Representatives, I thank Susan Kamas for her extraordinary leadership, commitment to service, and lasting contributions to the Central Texas community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Pastor Dan Wooldridge as he retires after more than five decades of faithful ministry. Since 1972, Pastor Wooldridge has pastored churches across Texas, offering spiritual guidance, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his calling.

A graduate of Howard Payne University, Pastor Wooldridge has spent his life sharing his faith, not only in Central Texas, but around the world. His evangelism and missionary efforts have reached South America, Cuba, Romania, Southeast Asia, and the United Kingdom, reflecting a heart for service and a passion for spreading God's Word.

At Crestview Baptist Church in Georgetown, he helped expand the church's ministry through initiatives like Crestview Camp, local outreach, and strengthened partnerships with the Williamson Baptist Association. His impact extended beyond the church walls--serving on the Board of Partners for Education, driving school buses, and supporting student athletics. Pastor Wooldridge has lived out Christ's words: ``Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.''

He and his wife Shannon have raised three children, and together they have been a steadfast example of faith, family, and service to the community.

On behalf of the United States House of Representatives, I commend Pastor Dan Wooldridge for fifty-three years of remarkable ministry. His legacy is one of compassion, conviction, and commitment to others. I wish him and Shannon continued joy and purpose in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise and salute the extraordinary military career of Shannon Book and am proud to award him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Throughout his years of service and beyond, his presence, energy, and sincerity set him apart from other individuals.

Shannon served in the U.S. military for 17 years, including two combat tours during the invasion of Fallujah and in An Nasiriyah, Iraq. He served as a Fleet Marine Force Corpsman and helped fellow Marines overcome physical wounds on the battlefield.

Following his active-duty service, Shannon continued to serve others through his leadership in Operation Turkey, an organization that provides meals to individuals and families in need during the Thanksgiving holiday. Whether through logistics management, organizing volunteers, preparing food, cooking, packaging meals, or delivering them to doorsteps, Shannon demonstrates his commitment to serving by being among the first to arrive and the last to leave.

Shannon continuously advocates for veterans by pouring his heart into his music. Shannon has become a voice for many veterans, giving expression to the struggles that are often difficult to articulate for veterans coming home after service. His songs and performances open doors for conversation, connection, and healing, and he has truly changed the lives of so many, traveling across the Nation.

I commend Shannon Book for his brave service to our country. From battlefield medic to community leader and musical artist, his commitment to our country is unwavering. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation, and I celebrate his dedication to being a leader and role model, both in uniform and as a civilian.

Mr. Speaker, Mr. Marion Joseph Brown, Jr. has demonstrated the highest ideals of service, both in his two decades of military duty and in his continued commitment to his community. I am honored to recognize him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr. Brown served in the United States Army from 1969 to 1989. After completing Field Artillery School, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and later attended the advanced course. Throughout his Army career, he served with distinction in the Federal Republic of Germany, Fort Riley, Kansas, Fort Sill, Oklahoma, the Republic of Korea, Fort Hood, Texas, Fort Lee, Virginia, and Okinawa, Japan. His assignments ranged from firing platoon leader and fire support officer to honor graduate of the Command and General Staff College. He concluded his military service as Assistant Professor of Military Science in the ROTC detachment at Oklahoma State University. Mr. Brown's awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal.

Following his retirement from the Army, Mr. Brown continued to embody the principle of ``service after service.'' His work with Temple ISD allowed him to advocate for at-risk students, and he later served as District Director for Texas State Senator Troy Fraser. Mr. Brown has also been deeply involved in his community through the Lions Club, Rotary International, and other local service organizations.

I extend my deepest appreciation to Mr. Marion Joseph Brown, Jr. for his dedicated service to our Nation and for his lifelong commitment to improving the lives of others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. Joseph Alan Mathis, Sr. with a Congressional Veteran Commendation in honor of his exemplary service to the United States, both in uniform and through decades of continued commitment to his community.

Mr. Mathis began his military career in 1970 when he volunteered for service in the United States Army. He rose rapidly through the enlisted ranks from E-1 to E-6 and went on to serve four years in Germany before returning stateside to Fort Bliss. While stationed there, he completed a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, graduating Summa Cum Laude. He later attended the newly established Combat Arms Staff Service School and subsequently served with the 7th Infantry Division Combat Aviation Brigade in California.

Promoted to Major, Mr. Mathis was assigned as Chief for Battlefield Automation in Combat Developments at Fort McClellan. He was later selected to serve as the Chemical Officer for the 25th Infantry Division before choosing to retire in order to dedicate more time to his family. Over the course of 23 years, as both an enlisted soldier and commissioned officer, he distinguished himself through leadership, technical expertise, and service to others. He also gave back as a church musician and choir leader, extending his sense of service far beyond his military duties.

Following his honorable retirement, Mr. Mathis continued serving the Nation for another 23 years as a contractor supporting the Program Executive Office, where he helped develop advanced technical data systems. He has remained deeply engaged in community service as well as a leader in the Lions Club, President of the Gatesville Exchange Club, a supporter of local emergency management efforts, and an active volunteer with Operation Stand Down Central Texas.

I am honored to commend Mr. Joseph Alan Mathis, Sr. for his outstanding service to our country and his steadfast dedication to the Central Texas community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise and am privileged to present Mr. Gordon B.

Logan with a Congressional Veteran Commendation in recognition of his exemplary service to our Nation, first in uniform and later through decades of extraordinary civic and philanthropic leadership.

Mr. Logan served on active duty in the United States Air Force from 1969 to 1974 and continued in the Air Force Reserve until 1976. As an aircraft commander for the C-130 Hercules during the Vietnam War era, he flew missions across the United States and throughout East Asia, including Thailand, Taiwan, and Cambodia. Throughout his military career, he exemplified professionalism, skill, and devotion to duty. Following his service, Mr. Logan continued to strengthen his community by founding Sport Clips Haircuts, now one of the most successful franchises in the Nation with more than 1,900 locations headquartered in Georgetown, Texas. His leadership and generosity have supported numerous local institutions, including the Georgetown YMCA, Southwestern University's Yellow Ribbon veterans scholarship program, the Georgetown Community Clinic Foundation Board, Habitat for Humanity, the Ride On Center for Kids, and the Chisholm Trail Community Foundation.

On a national scale, Mr. Logan launched the VFW Sport Clips Help a Hero Scholarship Program, now the largest veteran-related scholarship initiative of its kind. Despite earning significant accolades, including recognition among the Nation's top franchises and ranking No. 24 on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500, Mr. Logan remains deeply committed to service and grounded in humility.

I am proud to honor Mr. Gordon B. Logan with a Congressional Veteran Commendation for his lifelong dedication to supporting service members, veterans, and the Central Texas community. His contributions have improved countless lives and strengthened our Nation.

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 serving 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, Mr. Frank Espinosa, Jr. has exemplified the highest ideals of service, both in uniform and throughout his civilian life, and I am proud to recognize him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr. Espinosa served on active duty in the United States Navy from July 1978 to December 2002. Among his most notable assignments was his tour from May 1985 to May 1989 with the Special Programs Office of the White House Military Office, where he contributed to the largest construction project completed at the White House in a quarter century.

His dedication to service has continued long after his military retirement. For more than 30 years, he has been a Paid-Up-For-Life member of the American Legion, contributing significantly to Post 174 in Georgetown as 1st Vice Commander, newsletter editor, and project coordinator for clothing donations serving homeless and at-risk veterans.

He is also a Gold Legacy Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and has provided steadfast support to Post 8587, where he donated equipment, maintained the flag collection, assisted with community events, and continues to serve as Webmaster. In addition, as a Life Member of the U.S. Submarine Veterans Central Texas Base, he has organized blood drives, served as an Ambassador for the Charity Foundation, and was honored as Sailor of the Year in 2023.

Mr. Espinosa's commitment to service extends deep into the community. Since 2014, he has been a dedicated volunteer with The Caring Place, serving in multiple roles, including on the Board of Directors, and helping coordinate food distribution for at-risk families during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On behalf of the United States House of Representatives, I extend my deepest appreciation to Mr. Frank Espinosa, Jr. for his remarkable contributions to our Nation and his lifelong commitment to serving others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize the distinguished service of Mr. Dick Chapin, who truly embodies the highest ideals of the United States Armed Forces through his courage and commitment to leadership. I am privileged to award Mr. Chapin with the Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr. Chapin began his military career in 1956 when he joined the Texas Army National Guard. He was mobilized in 1960 during the Berlin Crisis for 11 months, and after returning home, he worked as a full-time technician with the Texas Army National Guard, fully qualified with nuclear missiles. After applying for active duty, he was sent to Vietnam, where he was promoted to Captain. He was later promoted to Major after his time in Korea at the Army Air Defense Command Post No. 2. Throughout his time as Major, he was tasked with scheduling and coordinating all the Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve units at Fort Hood.

After 27 years of service in the military, Mr. Chapin started his own business, Chapin Construction and Remodeling. He later went on to accept the Executive Director position at Killeen Food Care Center, a large food bank, and became a board member of the Belton Helping Hands Food Pantry, as well as a member and leader of the Board of Directors for the Fort Hood Area Habitat for Humanity.

Mr. Chapin exemplified placing public service first throughout his life. He served in several executive positions for the Lions Club, joined the Military Officers Association of America, and traveled to build homes in Mexico through the Memorial Baptist Church ministry.

We are forever indebted to Mr. Dick Chapin for his service, sacrifice, and dedication to public service, and he is incredibly deserving of the Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and I am privileged to present Mr. David Schmitz with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. He has exemplified the meaning of service to our country, both as a leader in the U.S. military and as a civilian.

Mr. Schmitz proudly served in the United States Air Force for 29 years, holding prestigious roles in the Defense Mapping Agency, On-Site Inspection Agency, and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, European Operations Division. He was stationed in Wyoming, California, and Utah in the United States, served overseas in Germany, and impressively served as a Russian interpreter during a three-month stint with Operation Provide Hope in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Mr. Schmitz was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force as a Chief Master Sergeant in June of 2004, but his service to America didn't end there. He continued to stay involved with veteran advocacy through participation in the Disabled American Veterans Lone Star Chapter, where he served as the First Vice Commander. In the organization, he was tasked with organizing membership and coordinating outreach to veterans across the region. He now serves as a Chapter Service Officer, where he demonstrates diligence, patience, and works in-depth with the claims process.

Through extensive one-on-one support, he has guided veterans in navigating resources and services, ensuring they receive the care they need and deserve. He played a pivotal role in emergency flood relief efforts, personally seeking out veterans in affected communities to ensure their safety and well-being. Additionally, he was instrumental in planning the Pflugerville Memorial Day Veteran Pfest, demonstrating exceptional leadership within the community.

I am incredibly appreciative of his dedication to service and the lasting difference he has made in the lives of countless veterans, and I am proud to honor him with this commendation.

Mr. Speaker, Brandon Crook has devoted his life to caring for service members, veterans, and their families, both in and out of uniform. His commitment to others reflects the finest traditions of the United States Navy, and I am honored to recognize him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr. Crook entered the Navy in 2009 as a Seaman Recruit and trained as a Hospital Corpsman. He served at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton and Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms, where he supported medical operations and strengthened the health and readiness of the force. Later, with the 1st Marine Division, he served as the medical readiness leader for more than 1,800 Marines and Sailors, raising readiness to 97 percent and preparing units for deployment. His performance earned him multiple awards, including two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.

After completing his military service, Mr. Crook continued to support the military community through Heroes Night Out (HNO). Beginning as a volunteer in 2018 and now serving as Executive Director, he has helped transform HNO into one of Central Texas's most impactful veteran service organizations. Today, HNO reaches more than 7,500 veterans and family members annually and hosts over 145 events each year. Under his leadership, the organization launched outdoor programming, expanded holiday meal support, created a Women Veterans Program, and built strong partnerships across the region. He has also secured more than $1.7 million in funding, contributing to HNO's recognition as the Rising Star Non-Profit of the Year in 2023.

Brandon Crook's work has strengthened countless lives and families, I am grateful for his service to our Nation and for his ongoing mission to support those who have worn the uniform.

Mr. Speaker, Captain Michael P. Farrell has lived a life defined by service to his country and his community, and I am honored to recognize him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Captain Farrell began his distinguished Coast Guard career in 1977 and graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in 1981. Over 32 years of service, he served as a helicopter pilot, conducting lifesaving missions, performing high-risk rescues, and supporting operations around the world. He participated in Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti and later served as Chief of the Migrant Interdiction Division at Coast Guard Headquarters, where he oversaw the safe repatriation of hundreds of migrants in coordination with the Departments of State and Defense and the National Security Council.

As Coast Guard Attache to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, Captain Farrell helped forge a historic law enforcement agreement with the Mexican Navy, leading to enhanced joint operations, maritime security cooperation, and the seizure of a semi-submersible vessel carrying more than five tons of cocaine. His distinguished career earned him numerous honors, including the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Coast Guard Commendation Medal, and the Coast Guard Achievement Medal.

Since retiring in 2009, Captain Farrell has continued his commitment to service through work with several Texas state agencies focused on safety and family protection. He has also shared his expertise as an educator at St. Edward's University, the University of Phoenix, and Hawai'i Pacific University. A devoted volunteer, he has served with the Knights of Columbus, Mobile Loaves & Fishes, and the St. John Vianney Committee.

On behalf of the United States House of Representatives, I extend my deepest appreciation to Captain Michael P. Farrell for his lifelong dedication to service and his enduring impact on both his country and his community.