Floor Statements

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it stand adjourned until 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 30; that following the prayer and pledge, the Journal of proceedings be approved to date, the morning hour be deemed expired, the time for the two leaders be reserved for their use later

in the day, and the Senate be in a period of morning business, with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each; further, that notwithstanding rule XXII, the cloture motion with respect to S. Res. 690 ripen at 11:30 a.m. tomorrow; finally, that if cloture is invoked on S. Res. 690, all postcloture time be expired and the Senate vote on adoption of the resolution at a time to be determined by the majority leader in consultation with the Democratic leader, no earlier than Friday, May 1.

Mr. President, for the information of all Senators, expect a vote on the motion to discharge S.J. Res. 184 at 1:45 tomorrow.

Mr. President, if there is no further business to come before the Senate, I ask that it stand adjourned under the previous order, following the remarks of my colleagues.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. of Winneshiek County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Toppling Goliath Brewing was founded with a simple yet ambitious goal: to craft beers that could not be found anywhere else in northeast Iowa. In its early days, founders Clark and Barbara Lewey balanced building the business while still maintaining full-time jobs, steadily growing the company from the ground up. What began as a small, passion- driven microbrewery expanded through hard work, persistence, and commitment to quality. As it grew, Toppling Goliath established itself as a staple in the Decorah community.

After securing the necessary licenses and a property in downtown Decorah, the business moved into its current facility in 2017 and opened its taproom the following spring. Today, the brewery employs approximately 160 individuals and has evolved into a nationally and internationally recognized brand. In addition to its award-winning craft beer, the company has expanded into distilling whiskey, vodka, and gin, further diversifying its offerings and strengthening its presence in the beverage industry. Notably, the company has built a strong customer base overseas, demonstrating the global demand for high-quality, Iowa-brewed craft products.

Even with this growth, the business remains deeply rooted in Iowa and continues to maintain the values that guided its early success. The brewery is actively engaged in local and industry organizations, including the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce, the Brewers Association, and the Iowa Brewers Guild. In addition to its business success, Toppling Goliath has made significant contributions to charitable causes. The company supports initiatives focused on improving water quality and protecting local watersheds, even dedicating specific products to raise funds for these efforts. They have also contributed to organizations such as the Field Museum in Chicago and local fire departments, demonstrating a strong commitment to giving back locally and beyond.

Toppling Goliath has been recognized numerous times nationally for its premier craft beers. In 2021, the business was named the Grand National Champion by the U.S. Open Beer Championship. Beer Advocate named Toppling Goliath as the No. 2 brewery in the world. Since 2015, their Kentucky Brunch Brand Stout has frequently held the title for the No. 1 beer in the world. The company continues to strive toward becoming a destination for craft beer enthusiasts, while expressing deep gratitude to the consumers who have supported its journey from the very beginning.

I am pleased to recognize Clark and Barbara Lewey along with the entire team at Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. for their dedication to the Decorah and Winneshiek County communities. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. President, I rise today to honor a fellow Iowan, a friend, and an extraordinary leader GEN Randy A. George, upon his retirement from the U.S. Army after more than four decades of distinguished service to our Nation. General George has devoted his life to the defense of the United States of America and her people.

Born to Robert and Lorraine George and raised in Alden--a beautiful, rural community in north central Iowa--Randy's folks instilled in him solid Iowa values that would take him on an incredible journey from the rolling countryside of our heartland to the highest ranks of the U.S. Army.

Randy was raised humble, hard-working, courageous, and patriotic. Randy enlisted in the U.S. Army before his 18th birthday, and he focused his eyes on the future. Two years after his enlistment, Randy received a nomination for the U.S. Military Academy at West Point from my distinguished colleague Senator Chuck Grassley. Randy then received his appointment to West Point and joined the distinguished ``Long Gray Line.'' He was commissioned from West Point as an infantry officer in 1988 and served as a lieutenant in the vaunted 101st Airborne Division and rose through the ranks in many illustrious units, including the 4th Infantry Division, 173rd Airborne Brigade, and I Corps.

Randy has served in multiple deployments through several eras of American warfare--from Operation Desert Shield-Desert Storm to the Global War on Terrorism. His boots tread soil and sand in many countries--Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, and many more around the globe in his most senior positions with the United States Army. He literally commanded at every level of the Army, and our Army is so much stronger, agile, and lethal because of his leadership.

Randy advanced to the role of Vice Chief of Staff of the Army from 2022 to 2023 and most recently served as our 41st Chief of Staff of the Army. As Chief of Staff, Randy readied our Army for the future battlefield, capitalizing on the innovative spirit of our soldiers to transform the service from the ground up.

His determination yielded generational investments in the Army's Organic Industrial Base and a long overdue slashing of unnecessary waste and bureaucracy, equipping our soldiers with the training and the technology they need to survive and dominate on the battlefield.

Those who served with him describe him as a consistent leader, steady in even the most trying of times. He is a man who loves and respects his soldiers and built winning, capable teams. He is a soldier's soldier, which in the Army is the highest of compliments. He will be remembered for that. He is a man of character, who placed the Army's responsibility to our great Nation above all else.

Now, as a Senator, I am very privileged to travel to many communities across Iowa every single year. As I recently passed through the little, tiny communities in Hardin County, I asked the farmers and the small business owners if they knew Randy George, and, of course, they did. I received answers of ``I played basketball in high school with Randy,'' or ``My sister used to babysit Randy,'' and ``Randy's dad inspired me to go into agriculture.'' They all had kind words, and they spoke those words with pride.

Most were proud that Randy was serving in the Army. They all knew that he had an important job, but their eyes would pop open when I explained that he was the highest ranking officer in the U.S. Army: Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army. Honestly, Randy's job title didn't matter to them because, in Alden, IA, he--simply known as Randy George--was doing great work to keep them all safe. Randy represents the very best of Iowa and of our Nation.

I would also like to express my thanks to Randy's wife and his West Point classmate Mrs. Patty George. She has served Army families for nearly 40 years and whose energy--endless energy--and dedication were reflected in every single formation that Randy led. The Georges raised two incredible kids Grant and Andrea, and they recently welcomed two grandchildren to their family as well.

We wish Randy and his entire family continued success and fulfillment.

GEN Randy George's legacy will endure through the thousands and thousands of soldiers that were shaped by his mentorship and example. I know he will continue to serve our Nation.

Sir, General George, I am honored to be your Senator.

So today, as I hold the floor of the Senate in the heart of the Nation's Capital, on behalf of an extremely grateful nation, I extend my deepest

thanks and appreciation to GEN Randy A. George for his extraordinary service, sacrifice, and leadership.

Randy and Patty, ``No Task Too Great.'' You have demonstrated this well to all of America. God bless you, and Godspeed.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Sievert's Furniture & Floors of Emmet County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

In 1970, John Raymond ``Doc'' Sievert and his wife Judy opened Sievert's Refrigeration, an appliance store that they ran out of their garage. After years of hard work, the Sieverts grew and expanded the business into a furniture and flooring store, adopting their current namesake Sievert's Furniture & Floors. Through Doc's entrepreneurial tenacity and support from his family, he created a successful business in Estherville that has steadily evolved into a trusted local institution, and his legacy lives on today.

In 2015, Doc and Judy's son Jeff became the full owner of Sievert's Furniture & Floors after serving as co-owner for 14 years. Jeff takes pride in running his family business because it allows him to work with his children and grandchildren, just like his parents did. Today, Sievert's Furniture & Floors is occupying its fourth location after moving to a bigger store to meet rising demand for their flooring services. The business offers a wide selection of mattresses, furniture, recliners, sofas, flooring, and decorative home furnishings. A dedicated team of 12 employees provides exemplary customer service, making customers feel like a part of the family. Under Jeff's leadership, the business has continued to grow while maintaining its family-centered approach, ensuring that each generation continues the values that built the company.

Sievert's Furniture & Floors is also active in various communities within Emmet County. They are members of the Estherville Chamber of Commerce, consistent donors to local sports teams, the Special Olympics, and Pheasants Forever. Every year, Sievert's sets aside funds for 10 charitable causes. This continued investment in local organizations highlights their commitment not just to their business success, but to giving back to the community that has supported them for decades.

It is my honor to recognize the Sievert family and the entire team at Sievert's Furniture & Floors for their outstanding contributions and presence in their community. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years to come.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Port Neal Welding Company of Woodbury County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

In 1994, Dan Lee created a welding business out of his home, specializing in industrial fabrication of stairs, catwalks, and agricultural products. As Port Neal Welding undertook more regional projects, Lee moved the business into a new facility in 2011. The team also began to create custom artwork and sculptures using their steel products. With a team of 17 employees, including four of Dan's sons, the company takes pride in their high-quality craftsmanship and ability to fix any issue, whether something is bent, broken, or cracked.

Dan Lee and Port Neal Welding are active in various community initiatives. Lee currently serves on the Westwood Community School District Board, as well as his church board. The business is a member of the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce and played a key part in constructing a replica of the Korean War Memorial at Siouxland Freedom Park. In their charitable endeavors, they support the Woodbury County Sheriff's Office and local fire departments and schools. The business is also involved in charity auctions where they offer fabricated items. Their role as a central figure in the community was reflected in 2023, when multiple candidates for the Republican Presidential nomination visited the business. Their work on various fronts highlights the role of small businesses in American towns, both economically and socially.

It is my honor to recognize Dan Lee and the whole team at Port Neal Welding Company for their outstanding contributions and presence in their community. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years to come.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Mill Creek Cafe of Cedar County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Founded in 2010 by Jamie Wilhau and Marcia Syring, Mill Creek Cafe is a welcoming, locally owned spot where the Clarence community gathers over quality, home-cooked meals. Over the years, this woman-owned small business has grown into a hub for families, friends, and neighbors, known for its consistency, hospitality, and made-from-scratch dishes.

The cafe offers a wide variety of dining options on a rotating 6-week menu, including sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts with daily specials displayed on a restored schoolhouse chalkboard. Out of the many delicious choices, in typical Iowa fashion, the tenderloin is easily the crowd favorite.

In addition to their work at Mill Creek Cafe, Jamie and Marcia also run an event management business together at their Highpoint Event Center venue that includes catering services and on-site overnight accommodation. They are actively engaged members of Clarence Main Street and the Cedar County Economic Development Group, where they support local economic growth and strengthen the small business community by hosting fundraising meals that benefit local businesses and schools. Through this involvement, they continue to invest in the long-term vitality of Main Street while preserving the character of their community by hosting fundraising meals that benefit local businesses and schools.

Mill Creek Cafe has earned statewide recognition, representing Cedar County on a list of 99 Must Try Iowa Restaurants, as well as the Warren Coleman Honorary Award from the Stanwood Lions Club for their exceptional catering services. Beyond accolades for their dining service, Jamie and Marcia also received the Friends of Iowa Renovation Award for their event venue.

Run solely by Jamie and Marica from the beginning, their business supports the home-style dining needs of Iowans while contributing to the vibrancy of Clarence and the broader Cedar County area. Mill Creek Cafe exemplifies the spirit of American entrepreneurship through its commitment to service and community.

I am pleased to recognize Jamie Wilhau and Marcia Syring from Mill Street Cafe for their dedication to Cedar County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Zeb's Smokehouse of Taylor County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

After moving back home to Bedford, IA, Zeb Schuelke and his wife Andrea converted a vacant building into a meat processing facility. Zeb's Smokehouse was officially opened just in time for hunting season in 2015. Starting as a dream, the small wild game

processing operation soon grew as farmers, hunters, and families across the country relied on a butcher they could trust.

Today, Zeb's Smokehouse offers custom meat and wild game processing, retail cuts of locally raised beef and pork, and an exclusive farm to table service. Zeb's brings a refrigerated reefer trailer straight to the farm to harvest the beef or pork. The animal is processed on the property, then taken back to the locker to be finished. By working directly with area farmers and livestock producers, the shop connects customers with food raised close to home and helps keep Iowa's agricultural traditions strong.

Over the past decade, Zeb's Smokehouse has expanded its product range and now distributes smoked meats and specialty products through additional retail outlets throughout the country. In 2023 and 2025, Zeb's was the winner of the Best of Southwest Iowa Best Meat Locker Award. I have been delighted to see how this team worked together to serve their community and continue the success of Zeb's Smokehouse.

Zeb's Smokehouse is a proud member of the Bedford Chamber of Commerce, and Andrea has participated in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program in Iowa, a nationally recognized initiative that champions entrepreneurship and small business growth. Beyond serving local farmers and customers, Zeb's processes wild game for hunters and donates venison to help feed families in need. Their commitment to community runs deep: from contributing to charity auctions to raising money for cancer patients and participating in other local initiatives. In communities like Bedford, businesses such as Zeb's Smokehouse do more than process meat; they help neighbors fill their freezers, support local producers, and preserve traditions that have been part of rural life for generations.

I am pleased to recognize Zeb and Andrea Schuelke, along with the entire team at Zeb's Smokehouse, for their dedication to Taylor County and beyond. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. President, for 41 days, Democrats have kept the Department of Homeland Security shut down--41 days. This is on top of Chuck Schumer's 43-day shutdown last fall.

Thanks to Senate Democrats, right now, 50,000 TSA agents have been working without pay since February 14. No wonder they are quitting: So far, 480 and counting.

Democrats walked out on TSA. Because of them, it hasn't been a surprise that TSA agents have walked out of their jobs.

An agent in Indiana hasn't seen a full paycheck since Valentine's Day. She is now doing her grocery shopping at a food pantry.

One married couple who both work as TSA agents at the Orlando International Airport have two young children. When faced with no income coming in, the husband started working as a DoorDash driver in his spare time and is considering resigning from TSA.

These are just a few of the hard-working folks whom this shutdown is hurting.

My Democrat colleagues seem to forget that bills are due and expenses must be paid each month, regardless of the political games they want to play with government funding, all because Democrats wanted to create chaos under President Trump.

It is sad, folks. They hate this President more than they love America and the men and women who protect our homeland.

It is clear Democrat priorities have been all wrong. My Democrat colleague Chris Murphy said the quiet part out loud the other day. He said:

[T]he people we care about most--the undocumented . . .

Folks, the people every elected Representative should care the most for should be their constituents--the American people. But that sums up Democrats' DHS shutdown. They would rather make a political point than to do their jobs.

While we have been waiting on them to come to their senses, Democrats have created the longest wait times in TSA history and have also caused 660 canceled flights. So, if you have been stuck standing in line at the airport for a few extra hours, call Chuck Schumer. We have literally been waiting on him to pass this bill.

Angry? tired? frustrated because of delays?

Call Chuck Schumer.

Missed a flight?

Call Chuck Schumer.

And if you missed a paycheck because of Democrats' shutdown--right here, folks--call Chuck Schumer because Republicans presented him with compromises to make sure folks get paid and we can keep Americans safe, but he has been like Lucy with Charlie Brown's football. Democrats have claimed they just want a few reforms, but when a deal is right in front of them, Schumer moves the ball.

Well, not today, Charlie.

Look, folks. We need to get this done not only because it is the right thing to do for hard-working Americans who have earned their paychecks but because safety and security are on the line.

After Democrats shut down DHS, including the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, an American company faced a cyber attack from Iran. Meanwhile, teens brought explosives to a New York City protest--Schumer's home State--and were charged with attempting to provide materiel support to ISIS.

If that isn't a wake-up call, I don't know what is. But while Schumer has his own bodyguards and Members of Congress have funding for personal security, Democrats are leaving our homeland and our communities vulnerable.

Enough of the Washington double standards. Republicans have stood ready and willing to fund DHS. We have voted for it--Republicans have voted for it--11 times. Meanwhile, Democrats have voted down our efforts every single time.

While our Democrat colleagues have refused to join us to end unnecessary pain for thousands of Americans, President Trump is pushing through the politics and is paying our TSA agents, bringing wait times down, and keeping our citizens safe.

Now Democrats must join us in doing their jobs and actually fund the rest of DHS to fully protect our homeland. There is no time to delay.

I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Hands Jewelers of Johnson County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Now known as Hands Jewelers, the business was founded in 1853 and bought by John Hands in 1907 after he moved to Iowa City because of the Rock Island Railroad depot. As the family recounts, railroad workers relied on precisely synchronized watches to keep trains on schedule, creating a constant need for skilled repair and craftsmanship. After John's passing, his son Harold Hands took over and married Mary Rupener Nusser. Soon, Hands Jewelers will be owned and operated under its fifth generation of leadership once Bill Nusser, Jr., passes the torch to his son Charlie to continue a legacy built on craftsmanship, trust, and dedication.

For more than 170 years, the business has provided high-quality jewelry and personalized service, helping customers celebrate life's most meaningful moments, from engagements and weddings to anniversaries and family milestones. Through a dedication to excellence and attention to detail, Hands Jewelers ensures each piece tells a story and has earned a reputation as a trusted name across eastern Iowa.

In recent years, Hands Jewelers has demonstrated its ability to adapt and evolve while honoring its long-standing traditions. Through a thoughtful rebranding effort, the business has modernized its marketing, expanded its e-commerce presence, and embraced new ways to connect with customers, ensuring continued success in an ever-changing marketplace.

Beyond its work in fine jewelry, Hands Jewelers is deeply woven into the fabric of the Iowa City community. The Nusser family has remained actively engaged in local leadership and service, including involvement with the Community Foundation of Johnson County, the Englert Theater, and Greater Iowa City, Inc., where they have helped support local economic growth and strengthen the small business community. Their leadership extends beyond the local level through participation in industry organizations such as Charlie's service on the Centurion Retail Advisory Board contributing to the Centurion Jewelry show, further underscoring their commitment to excellence and deep engagement in the fine jewelry business. With a team of 15 employees, the business supports local jobs while contributing to the vibrancy of Iowa City and the broader Johnson County community.

Today, with multiple family members still involved in the business, Hands Jewelers continues to reflect the values that have sustained it for generations: hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to community.

I am pleased to recognize Bill and Charlie Nusser, along with the entire team at Hands Jewelers, for their dedication to Iowa City and Johnson County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Mr. President, as chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Boone River Financial of Hamilton County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Founded in 2021 by Andrew Hejlik, Boone River Financial is committed to helping individuals and businessowners develop thoughtful financial strategies and make informed decisions. Based in Webster City, the firm's team of five professionals takes pride in their mission to ensure client relationships are at the center of everything they do, making sure each interaction reflects their core values: client focus, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Boone River Financial provides a wide range of services, including investment management, comprehensive financial planning, and small business and 401(k) advisory services. The team works closely with clients to establish personalized investment goals and create sustainable strategies for long-term asset growth. By taking a holistic approach to financial planning, Boone River ensures that every aspect of a client's financial picture is carefully considered, making them a trusted partner every step of the way. Their commitment to education also empowers clients to understand their options and make confident financial decisions.

Boone River Financial is deeply committed to strengthening the local economy. They are active members of the Webster City Chamber of Commerce, Hamilton County Growth Partnership, and the Iowa chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators. Additionally, Boone River proudly sponsors the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, helping organize donations for the local food bank. They are also involved in the Fly High Memorial Car and Truck Show and Cruise, which supports education scholarships, as well as the Webster City Chamber Memorial Golf Tournament.

Andrew Hejlik's leadership and dedication to excellence have earned him continued recognition within the financial industry, including membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table of the Premier Association of Financial Professionals and the Professional Plan Consultant designation from the Center for Fiduciary Studies. He worked closely with the Enhance Hamilton County Foundation to help restore the historic Elks Club Building in downtown Webster City and serves as a member of the Fred M. Fuller Board of Trustees, which is tasked with maintaining the Fuller Recreational Hall.

It is my honor to recognize Andrew Hejlik and the entire Boone River Financial team for their outstanding work and dedication to their community. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. President, Iowa and our Nation mourn the loss of SGT Declan Coady. A native of West Des Moines, IA, Sergeant Coady served his Nation honorably. He represented the best of us, and I am incredibly thankful for his brave and selfless dedication to defending our freedoms and keeping our homeland safe.

On March 1, 2026, Sergeant Coady was tragically killed in an Iranian drone strike on an American tactical operations center in Kuwait's Port of Shuaiba, alongside five other servicemembers assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command. Sergeant Coady, just 20 years old, was a sophomore at Drake University. He joined the U.S. Army Reserves upon graduating from high school in 2023 and served as an information technology specialist. Enrolled in the Reserve Officers' Training Corps Program, he could have been exempt from deployment, but loved serving his country so much that he chose to deploy to Kuwait this past August anyway. Through his commitment to our country, Sergeant Coady earned several awards and decorations, including the Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.

Sergeant Coady is survived by his sister, two brothers, and father. He was an Eagle Scout, an avid outdoorsman, and an athlete. He cared deeply about his family, who will remember him for his kindness and intelligence. He was a superb student studying cyber security at Drake, with an incredibly bright future ahead of him.

Sergeant Coady made the courageous choice to serve his country and paid the ultimate sacrifice. His invaluable service will not be forgotten. I, along with the entire country, extend my deepest gratitude to Sergeant Coady, and my deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Mr. President, today, we remember CW3 Robert Marzan, a longtime resident of Des Moines, IA. While his sacrifice can never be repaid, his courageous service will never be forgotten.

On March 1, 2026, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan was killed in an Iranian drone strike on an American tactical operations center in Kuwait's Port of Shuaiba, alongside five other members of the 103rd Sustainment Command. He had served in the U.S. Army Reserves for more than three decades and had deployed to the Middle East multiple times. He served his country with tremendous dignity and honor.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan is remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a friend to many. Residing in Des Moines for more than 15 years, he represented the very best of Iowa. He was a skilled problem-solver, a supportive friend, a mentor, and a brave American hero. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

I, alongside the entire Nation, mourn the loss of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan and pray for his family. Our Nation owes him and his family an incredible debt of gratitude for his service and sacrifice. My heart goes out to all Iowans as we grieve the loss of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan and his brothers in arms of the 103rd Sustainment Command.

Mr. President, Waukee, IA, native MAJ Jeffrey O'Brien devoted his life to the defense of the United States for more than a decade. Today, I am mourning, alongside our entire Nation, his loss. His courageous decision to answer the call to serve and put our Nation before himself will never be forgotten.

Major O'Brien was commissioned into the U.S. Army Reserves nearly 15 years ago. He was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command based in Des Moines, IA. Major O'Brien deployed to the Middle East multiple times. His honorable service earned him several awards, including the Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Superior Unit Award, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with ``M'' Device.

On March 1, 2026, Iranian forces launched a drone strike on an American tactical operations center in Kuwait's Port of Shuaiba, killing Major O'Brien and five other American servicemembers. These servicemembers died in support of a mission to protect fellow Americans from the duplicitous and evil regime of the Ayatollah, which has been responsible for the deaths of thousands of Americans. Their sacrifice cannot be repaid and will not be forgotten.

Major O'Brien is survived by his courageous wife Roxane and his beautiful children, as well as his parents Helen and Daniel of Coggon, IA; his brothers David and Gregory of Marion, IA; and his sister Natalie Navarro. He was a true son of Iowa. A lifelong Iowan, he graduated from Iowa State University in 2005 with a bachelor of science in computer engineering. He excelled in his career as an information systems engineer and has led ProCircular's Defensive Cyber Operations program since 2024. He was a true leader, most known for his compassion, uplifting humor, and calm guidance.

On behalf of a grateful nation, I extend my deepest gratitude for Major O'Brien's extraordinary service and sacrifice and my most sincere condolences to his family.