Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I thank my longtime friend and colleague and the chairman of Appropriations Committee, Mr. Cole, for yielding me the time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5371. I look forward to reopening the government. The shutdown has gone on long enough, and it is time to end it.

Yesterday was Veterans Day. It is a timely reminder of the commitment our Armed Forces personnel have made and the responsibility we have to take care of those who serve our Nation.

The military construction and veterans affairs component of the legislation meets that goal. The legislation includes $133.3 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs, including $113.8 billion in discretionary funding for VA medical care.

It includes critical funding for mental health services, telehealth services, veteran homelessness programs, medical research programs, and rural health initiatives.

It invests in information technology, including robust investment in VA's electronic health record modernization.

It fully funds all mandatory veteran benefits, including veteran disability compensation programs, education benefits, and vocational rehabilitation and employment training.

Nearly $20 billion is for the Department of Defense military construction program. This amount funds nearly 300 projects at military bases around the world.

It includes $2 billion to improve and maintain housing for servicemembers and their families. It provides requested resources for the American Battle Monuments Commission, Armed Forces Retirement Home, and operations at Arlington National Cemetery.

I thank Mr. Cole for his endless work to get us to this point.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the bill.

Mr. Speaker, I agree with everything my friend said. Mr. Luttrell is an amazing guy.

I rise today with a heavy heart on behalf of the people of Texas, the 31st District, and the Hill Country of Texas, the most beautiful part of our State.

Over the last 12 days, Texans have witnessed horrific tragedies, incredible acts of bravery, and the unwavering spirit of our State.

In my district, we lost eight souls and one remains unaccounted for. These people were friends, neighbors, mothers, and fathers. My deepest condolences go out to the families mourning these unimaginable losses.

This tragedy has made its mark on every corner of our State, but especially Kerr County. More than 130 people were lost--I understand it is lower than that now--but still more than 100 lost their lives and over 160 people remain unaccounted for. My heart goes out to every family that will never be the same.

It is hard to imagine dropping your kid off at camp, feeling comfortable about going home, and getting the news of something like this disaster. I have four children and seven grandchildren, and it is just unimaginable to me.

In the face of this disaster, Texans have shown the world exactly who we are: strong, faithful, and steadfast in our belief that we can take care of each other.

We have seen first responders bravely rescue hundreds of Texans, and we have seen them bear the weight of recovery efforts. We have seen volunteers band together to support those who lost everything.

The road ahead will be long, but I want Texans to hear that you are not alone. We mourn together, we will rebuild together, and we will carry each other forward because that is what we do as the people of Texas.

May God bless each and every one of you and comfort you in your loss.

For those heroes among us and for this great State of Texas, blessings and grateful thanks.

Mr. Chair, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Cole), the chairman of the Appropriations Committee.

Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Calvert), the chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.

Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Murphy).

Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Chair, I yield myself the balance of my time.

Mr. Chair, I acknowledge and ask my colleagues to support the fiscal year 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

This legislation provides critical funding for military bases, provides housing for our troops and their families, and makes other investments aimed at improving the quality of life of our servicemembers. It ensures that our national defense needs are met both at home and abroad.

We also uphold our pledge to our veterans. This bill fully funds healthcare and benefits for those who have valiantly served. Again, I ask my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Chair, pursuant to House Resolution 530, I offer amendments en bloc.

Mr. Chair, I rise in favor of this en bloc package. It includes bipartisan amendments that both sides have agreed to.

I appreciate Ranking Member Wasserman Schultz working with us on this amendment. I ask my colleagues to support it, and I urge its adoption.

Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Guam (Mr. Moylan).

Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Colorado (Ms. Boebert).

Mr. Chairman. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Chairman, pursuant to House Resolution 530, I offer amendments en bloc as the designee of Chairman Cole.

Mr. Chairman, I rise in favor of the amendment. It includes various priorities related to veterans' health care and benefits and calls for improvements to our military bases.

Mr. Chairman, I urge its adoption, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Arrington).

Mr. Chair, I yield an additional 1 minute to the gentleman from Texas.

Mr. Chairman, I move the adoption of this en bloc, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Chairman, I move that the Committee do now rise.

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the 20th anniversary of the ROCK On Veterans program, a pioneering initiative of the Ride On Center for Kids (ROCK) in Georgetown, Texas. Since its founding in 2005, this program has provided equine-assisted services to more than one thousand veterans, offering healing and support to those who have served our Nation.

The program began as a collaboration between Lt. Colonel Scott Schule of the 1st Cavalry Division Horse Detachment at Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood) and ROCK, with the goal of supporting wounded veterans recovering at Brooke Army Medical Center Under ROCK's leadership and with the expertise of team members such as Dr. Priscilla Lightsey, Joan Cutler, Heidi Darning, and Dr. Nancy Krenek, the program has grown significantly over the past two decades.

Today, ROCK On Veterans offers a no-cost, 24-week curriculum proven to reduce PTSD and anxiety while enhancing overall quality of life. In addition to its equine services, the program now includes the Sport Clips Heroes Arena, the H-E-B Serving Kitchen, and the expanded Patti Colbert Learning Center. It also benefits from valuable partnerships with Texas A&M University and Parsons Mounted Cavalry.

This milestone reflects ROCK's unwavering commitment to those who have worn the uniform. The organization's work is a powerful testament to the impact of community, innovation, and compassion in the lives of our veterans.

On behalf of the United States House of Representatives, I commend the Ride On Center for Kids for 20 years of exceptional service to our veteran community and thank them for their continued dedication to healing through horsemanship.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize and salute a great Texan, Representative Terry Wilson, U.S. Army, Retired, with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His life and career reflect hard work and selfless service to his nation and Central Texas

Enlisting in the Army after graduating from high school, COL Wilson honorably served on Active Duty for 29 years and the Texas National Guard for 3 years. During his career, he courageously served our nation in both Iraq and Afghanistan. His exemplary service earned him numerous awards and accolades, including the Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal and Army Commendation Medal, among many others. He is a graduate of the U.S. Army War College, Ranger School, Airborne School and Pathfinder School.

After his retirement, COL Wilson's dedication to his community did not waiver. He now serves as the Texas State Representative for House District 20. As Chairman of the House Committee on Defense & Veterans' Affairs, he fights tirelessly for our brave servicemembers and leverages his expertise as an Army Acquisitions Officer to deliver critical capabilities to our warfighters. He is also a champion for expanding vocational education for all students, ensuring they are job- or college-ready upon graduation.

COL Wilson continues to lead with strength, integrity, and dedication for the betterment of his community. Aside from his role as State Representative, he strives to support the next generation, serving as an Assistant Scout Master and regularly speaking to students and working on special projects.

I am honored to join COL Wilson's fiends and family in celebrating his outstanding achievements. His commitment to selfless service makes him a deeply respected and honorable recipient of the Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to present a Congressional Veterans Commendation to Lieutenant Brian M. Frick, U.S. Navy, for his exemplary service. His unwavering commitment to our Nation and his efforts to improve his community have made lasting, positive impacts on countless lives.

LT Frick served honorably in the U.S. Navy as a member of the operational team. During his eight years in the Submarine Service, he held key roles as a lead sonar operator/technician, sonar watch supervisor, and sonar supervisor. Throughout his service, LT Frick earned numerous awards and accolades, including the Navy Achievement Medal for his exceptional submarine tracking abilities and technical expertise.

After leaving the Navy, LT Frick pursued higher education at the University of Texas at San Antonio, earning a degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology. He continued his dedication to public service by beginning his civilian career with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

At DPS, LT Frick worked with the Highway Patrol and served as a K-9 handler before joining the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) as a Narcotics Agent in Amarillo, Harlingen, and Brownsville, Texas, where he focused on Border and Drug Interdiction issues. Later, as a Senior Agent in Amarillo, he mentored new agents in surveillance techniques, conducted criminal investigations, and drafted search warrants. He now leads the CID Training Unit, supervising eight Training Agents/ Coordinators.

I am honored to join LT Frick's friends and family in celebrating his years of dedicated service and sacrifice. I applaud his work and wish him success and safety as he continues to serve our community with pride and honor.

Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to present a Congressional Veteran Commendation to Lieutenant Colonel Barbara MacMillan, U.S. Army, Retired. Her life and career reflect hard work, selfless service, and dedication to her Nation and Central Texas.

LTC MacMillan served from 1976 to 1999, amassing experience at Fort Liberty, West Point, Fort Cavazos, and others. As a 1st Lieutenant with the 2nd Armored Calvary Regiment (2ACR), she managed the operation of a Top-Secret Telecommunications Center and served as the Communications Security (COMSEC) Custodian. Her duties took her to the East German border, where she routinely inspected COMSEC procedures to ensure they remained uncompromised.

A trailblazer throughout her career, LTC MacMillan became a jumpmaster at a time when few women served in airborne units. In 1994, she was deployed to Haiti in support of Operation Uphold Democracy with the 1st Corps Support Command, XVIII Airborne Corps, as the G1 (Human Resources Director). She was responsible for theater-wide missions, including organizing a USO show with the Gatlin Brothers on October 24, 1994. Her exemplary service earned her numerous accolades, including the Legion of Merit and the Humanitarian Service Medal.

After retiring, LTC MacMillan continued her commitment to service, joining the Fort Cavazos Retiree Council and working with

The Caring Place, speaking to schools about selfless service and visiting veterans at homes and local events. LTC MacMillan works tirelessly for youth in her community, both as a Scout leader for over 21 years and through her involvement with the American Legion's mentorship, scholarships, and outreach programs. Her efforts continue to make a lasting impact on the next generation.

LTC MacMillan's determined efforts for veterans and youth are a powerful reflection of her commitment to selfless service. Her patriotism, honor, and commitment to excellence reflect the very best of Central Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the extraordinary career of Command Sergeant Major Angela Wilson, U.S. Army, Retired. Throughout her life, she has dedicated herself to her country, fellow heroes, and neighbors. I am proud to present her with the Congressional Veteran Commendation.

CSM Wilson's 30 years of service in the U.S. Army exemplify strength, compassion, and duty. CSM Wilson was and continues to be a trailblazer. Selected in 1996, she served as the first-ever female Command Sergeant Major in the Military Police Corps. Then in 2004, she became the first female Command Sergeant Major to lead a Combat Brigade, the 89th Military Police Brigade, into a combat zone.

Throughout her service, CSM Wilson demonstrated true and unwavering commitment to her fellow soldiers and the civilians she protected. She served in various locations, including Taegu, Korea, Fort Lewis, Guantanamo Bay, Iraq in Operation Iraqi Freedom, and served her last assignment at Fort Cavazos. Her extraordinary service has been recognized with more than 20 military medals, awards, and commendations, including the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star.

CSM Wilson's service on and off duty reflects the true meaning of ``Soldier for Life''. After retirement, she worked as an elementary school teacher in KISD for 20 years, chaired the Harker Heights Parks and Recreation Committee for 12 years, and coached youth soccer for over a decade. Her selfless work has positively impacted the lives of countless young people. Today, she continues to serve as a Wounded Warrior member and volunteer and has been a member of the Fort Hood Retiree Council for the last five years.

CSM Wilson's life stands as a model of selfless and genuine care for those around her. Her fearless dedication, devotion to service

above herself, and trailblazer spirit make her a worthy recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to award Master Sergeant Duane C. Bygum, Jr., USMC and USAF, Retired, with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His unwavering commitment to our country and community is a shining example of honor and duty.

During his 32 years of military service, MSgt Bygum served in both the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Air Force in various roles including Law Enforcement, Security Operation, and Emergency Management. During his four years in the Marine Corps, he served as an Infantry Corporal in Subic Bay, Philippines.

Upon transitioning to the Air Force, MSgt Bygum served under the Secretary of the Air Force Director, Security, Counterintelligence and Special Program Oversight (SAF/AAZ). There he implemented the first Biometric Identification Fingerprint System, significantly enhancing the use of technology to expedite time-critical and sensitive data for the Department of Defense and the Air Force.

Throughout his service, MSgt Bygum participated in Operation Northern Watch and Operation Enduring Freedom, and supported recovery efforts following the 9/11 attacks. He was awarded over 30 Military medals, awards and commendations including the Meritorious Service Medal.

After retiring from active service, MSgt Bygum's duty to his fellow servicemembers and community did not end. He currently serves as an Associate Professor of Homeland Security and Emergency Management at National University. Additionally, he helped establish the Disaster Recovery International Military Mentorship Program, which provides transitioning veterans with training, mentorship, resume writing assistance, job placement, and skill-building opportunities, helping them smoothly transition into private and governmental sectors.

MSgt Bygum's unwavering dedication and service to his Nation exemplify why he deserves this honor. I commend his remarkable contributions and extend my best wishes for his continued success as a steadfast advocate for our service members and veterans.

Mr. Speaker, I proudly present Colonel Garry Patterson, U.S. Army, Retired, with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. A ``Soldier for Life,'' COL Patterson embodies the values of selfless service and true leadership.

From 1972 to 2003, COL Patterson had an extraordinary 31-year career serving our Nation in the U.S. Army, holding numerous leadership positions across every level. As Chief of Staff for the 49th Armored Division, he played a pivotal role in preparing the unit for deployment in support of peacekeeping operations in war-torn Bosnia. Once deployed, he assumed the role of Chief of Staff for the Multi-National Division (North), leading a diverse team of officers from over ten nations, including Russia, Turkey, and Norway.

COL Patterson's distinguished military service earned him numerous accolades, including the Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, the Army Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, and the Meritorious Service Medal with four oak leaf clusters. He is also a recipient of the prestigious De Fleury Medal and has been inducted into the Order of St. George, underscoring his outstanding contributions to both the Army and his country.

After retirement from the Army, COL Patterson continued serving his community and the Nation. He leveraged his expertise to improve efficiency while working with several U.S. Defense Contractors. In partnership with the University of Texas and the US Army, COL Patterson assisted soldiers in obtaining the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, impacting the lives of more than 800 students. He serves on the Round Rock Chamber of Commerce Defense Advisory Task Force Committee and is the current Chapter President of The AUSA Executive Committee of the Texas Capital Area.

It is with great appreciation that I award COL Patterson with the Congressional Veteran Commendation. I join his family, friends, and colleagues in recognizing his profound contributions to Texas and to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great appreciation that I present Dr. Gary L. Gosney, U.S. Army Veterinary Corps with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Dr. Gosney embodies service and compassion through his commitment to the people and cherished animals of his community.

Dr. Gosney began his military career as a Captain in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps in August 1968. While stationed in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970, he cared for animals and injured soldiers until they could be medically evacuated. During his deployment, he served selflessly as a Zoonosis Control Officer, cared for the animals of the 4th Infantry Division, became the veterinarian for the 25th Infantry Division, and volunteered at a Catholic leper colony outside of Saigon. His bravery and patriotism in Vietnam earned him numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal with a ``V'' for Valor.

Upon returning to Texas, Dr. Gosney continued his dedication to service. He opened his own veterinary practice in Temple, Texas in 1970 and was voted the top veterinarian in Central Texas for 17 years in a row. Beyond his veterinary work, Dr. Gosney has made significant contributions to his community. A past president and longtime member of the Temple Founder Lions Club, he has raised thousands of dollars to support local charities. Additionally, as an avid supporter of the arts, he has contributed to over 100 Temple Civic Theater productions and served as its president for seven terms.

Dr. Gosney is a shining example of service and a valued member of the community. I

proudly join Dr. Gosney's friends, family, and colleagues in saluting his contributions to the Army and to the Central Texas community.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Lt. Col. Jeff Davison, U.S. Air Force, Retired, with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Over his two-decade long career in the Air Force, he embodied the courage, honor and commitment that make our military the world's premier fighting force.

Lt. Col. Davison had a distinguished career specializing in the F-111 an craft, serving as a Fighter Pilot, Flight Examiner, Instructor, Test Pilot, and Air Force Exchange Officer to Australia. His leadership extended across various levels of the Air Force, including roles as Flight Commander of the 54th Fighter Training Squadron at Reese Air Force Base, Chief of Airspace at Randolph Air Force Base, and Air Force Reserve Commander at Reese Air Force Base. In 2004, Lt. Col. Davison took on the role of Director of Combat Operations for the NORAD Continental Region, where he managed all U.S. alert fighters and oversaw Presidential support. He earned numerous accolades, including three Top Gun awards and a Meritorious Service Medal with 3 oak leaf clusters.

After retiring from the Air Force, Lt. Col. Davison has continued to serve his community. He is an active member of the Central Texas Chapter of the Military Officers' Association of America since 2015 and served as president in 2022. Lt. Col. Davison volunteers for the Alzheimer's Association and continues to contribute to the Longest Day fundraiser. Guided by his faith, Lt. Col. Davison is an active member of First Baptist Church in Temple, and in 2019 became Chairman of the Committee on Committees.

Lt. Col. Davison leads with strength, integrity, and drive in each community he joins. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation, and I am proud to honor his outstanding achievements.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and honor that I present Lieutenant Colonel Spencer Hutson Smith, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His life and career are a testament to his exceptional character and unwavering commitment to service.

On active duty from 1973 to 1997, Lt. Col. Smith served in various locations around the globe, including Quantico, London, Brussels, Hong Kong, Australia, and Turkey. In 1990, Lt, Col. Smith was deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm He played a critical role in contingency operations in Beirut, Lebanon, where he developed essential emergency plans. Notably, Lt. Col. Smith served on Marine Helicopter Squadron One responsible for Executive Transport for President Ronald Reagan and was the Marine One Command Pilot for President George H.W. Bush. His dedication earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Presidential Service Badge and the Navy and Marine Corps Parachutist Insignia.

After retiring from the Marine Corps, Lt. Col. Smith continued to serve his community with the same passion. He served for six years as the Mayor of Harker Heights, following 14 years of work in Harker Heights city government. His contributions also extended to the Greater Killeen and Harker Heights Chambers of Commerce and as a tri-county soccer official. His leadership extends to his faith community as well, where he has held the title of deacon at Temple Bible Church since 2007, following a decade of service as a deacon at First Baptist Church of Killeen.

I join Lt. Col. Smith's family, friends, and colleagues in saluting his honorable contributions to our Nation and to Texas. He is a deserving recipient of the Congressional Veteran Commendation and a deeply valued member of our community.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to salute the extraordinary career of Major General Patrick Hamilton, U.S. Army, Retired, with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service to both the Army and

his Nation exemplifies our Nation's altruistic spirit.

MG Hamilton served honorably in Armor and Cavalry units in the Texas Army National Guard for 35 years. He served full time in operational assignments including Director of the Joint Staff, Chief of Staff to the Adjutant General of Texas, and the Texas Army National Guard Director of Operations.

In 2000, MG Hamilton served with the 49th Armored Division in Bosnia- Herzegovina as the Current Operations Officer. He later deployed to Afghanistan where he served as the Red Team Leader for the Commanding General. Additionally in 2017, he served as the Joint Task Force Commanding General for Hurricane Harvey military response, commanding 18,000 troops supporting evacuation and aid operations.

From 2018 to 2021, MG Hamilton served as the Commanding General of the 36th Infantry Division, where he commanded soldiers in nine countries across the Middle East as part of Task Force Spartan, under Operation Spartan Shield.

MG Hamilton's retirement did not end his service. He continues to train National Guard Division Commanders and staffs. In addition, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Central Texas YMCA and the Board of Governors of the Central Texas Community Foundation. For his extraordinary efforts during and after service he was awarded the 2023 Lieutenant General Raymond S. McLain Medal.

I am honored to join MG Hamilton's friends and family in celebrating his outstanding achievements. His commitment to selfless service makes him a deeply respected and honorable recipient of the Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr Speaker, I am proud to honor Commander Jon Lux, U.S. Navy, Retired, with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Commander Lux's commitment, strength, and leadership reflects the very best of Texas.

Commander Lux's distinguished naval career spanned over 2 decades. After being commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy, he served as a Surface Warfare Officer on multiple sea tours, primarily in the Middle East. His assignments also include serving as Commander, Mine Warfare Command and Commander, Mine Countermeasures Squadron Three, as well as Executive Officer of Naval Station Ingleside, Texas.

Following his military service, Commander Lux continued to demonstrate his dedication to his community. He has served on the Cedar Park City Council, the Cedar Park Tourism and Advisory Board, and the Planning and Zoning Committee. Additionally, he is a member of the Board of Directors for the Williamson County Appraisal Board, where he also chaired the Bond Oversight Committee. Driven by a passion for service, Commander Lux was a founding member of American Legion Post 911 in Cedar Park, raising funds for the Gold Star Monument and supporting Boys and Girls State programs. Commander Lux is a devoted husband to his wife, Michelle, and a proud father to their two children.

I commend Commander Lux's dedication to his community and our Nation. I join his colleagues, family, and friends, in honoring his career, saluting his commitment to public service, and celebrating his outstanding achievements.