Floor Statements

Mr. President, I rise today to honor the impactful and inspirational life of an Alabama legend, Charles Anderson. An entrepreneur, philanthropist, husband, grandfather, and great- grandfather, Charles will be remembered by his relentless drive, extreme generosity, and unwavering humility.

From a young age, Charles learned the values of faith, persistence, and hard work. Born in Florence, AL, Charles was the first of Clyde W. and Ruth Keenum's three children. He developed his entrepreneurial spirit by helping at his father's local newsstand, eventually picking up his own newspaper route. By age 11, Charles had started his own business, a roadside fireworks stand, and by age 14, he was

assisting at his dad's magazine and book business, which had grown from a roadside newsstand to an entire storefront.

Charles didn't just learn discipline and determination from working alongside his father. He was a star athlete, leader, and student. During his time at Coffee High School, he earned various accolades, including recognition as the youngest football player ever selected to the First Team All Tri-Cities Football squad and the All-Tennessee Valley Conference squad, cocaptain of the football team, and, to no one's surprise, was even named a senior class favorite at Coffee High School. His whole class looked up to him, a trend that would follow Charles wherever he went.

After earning his bachelor of science in marketing and minoring in economics from Florence State Teachers College, now the University of North Alabama, Charles joined the family business full-time. Just as he had done as a child, Charles dreamed big, worked tirelessly, and trusted his vision. Soon, that family business had turned into a wide- ranging network of successful enterprises, including Anderson Media, Anderson Press, Books-A-Million, and TNT Fireworks. And in 1987, Charles became the chairman of ANCO Management Services, eventually becoming chairman emeritus and providing mentorship and oversight to his beloved family-founded enterprises.

Even more impressive than Charles' professional career was his service to the community that helped fuel his success. He gave his time and expertise freely, serving in multiple board capacities, including the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Heritage Trust Fund, the First National Bank of Florence (now Truist), the Alabama Kidney Foundation of Alabama, the Salvation Army of the Shoals, the Shoals Economic Development Authority Board, and for nearly a decade, he was the executive chairman of the board of First Southern Bank. In 2026, Charles received the prestigious Life Membership award from the Salvation Army for his unwavering commitment to the organization. He was a valued and dedicated member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, where his life was celebrated by the many who knew and loved him.

Charles also gave generously to various causes and organizations, from educational institutions and libraries to hospitals and medical research facilities. He was the benefactor of several scholarships, including the Clyde W. Anderson Scholarship at the University of North Alabama, named for his father, and a business scholarship at the University of Alabama. Proof of his generosity is scattered throughout our State--whether at the University of Northern Alabama's Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions and Hilda B. Anderson Softball Stadium, the University of Tennessee's Anderson Athletic Training Center and Anderson Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, or at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center's Hilda B. Anderson Endowed Chair in Nephrology. The Charles and Hilda Anderson Foundation and the Anderson Foundation both gave abundantly to the causes of literacy, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and expansion of opportunity. His philanthropy showcased his spirit of giving, but Charles never asked to be recognized for his generosity; he gave only because he believed that blessings ought to be shared. The Anderson family creed truly exemplifies Charles' ethos: ``There is no limit to what you can accomplish if you don't care who gets the credit.''

The great admiration Charles earned from his community and our entire State can be seen through several honors in his namesake. He was inducted into multiple prestigious associations, including the Alabama Business Hall of Fame, the Alabama Academy of Honor, and the Horatio Alger Association. Charles was named the 1979 University of North Alabama Alumni of the Year, the 2016 Shoals Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year, listed as one of the 2021 Most Influential People in Numismatics by Coin World Magazine, named an honorary life fellow of the American Numismatic Society, and named the 2024 Numismatist of the Century by COINage Magazine. In 2016, he was a Walk of Honor inductee, selected for his national and international acclaim among individuals in Florence and Lauderdale Counties. In 2018, the University of North Alabama awarded him an honorary doctorate degree recognizing his extraordinary achievements and his commitment to excellence. In 2025, Charles was honored by Business Alabama as one of five recipients of the Business Alabama Lifetime Achievement Award.

Even with all of these great honors, it is hard to capture the spirit, kindness, and leadership that Charles exhibited each and every day. His family, friends, and each person who was fortunate enough to know him were witnesses to his extraordinary life of philanthropy, leadership, lifelong knowledge, and a deep love for his loved ones. His legacy will last for generations to come and touch the lives of so many.

Today, we honor the life of a man who exemplifies the American Dream and has been a pillar of Alabama for decades. From a simple roadside newspaper stand--built from piano boxes and manned by a father and his 5-year-old son--to a global success story with tens of thousands impacted by his generosity and leadership, Charles Anderson lived a life worth sharing, which I am humbled to amplify in this body. Along with his loved ones, the Florence community, and our entire State, I am honored to celebrate him here today.

Mr. President, today I rise to remember the incredibly full and long life of Mr. Roy Drinkard, an Alabama and American legend. Throughout his 106 years on Earth, Roy's joy, kindness, and drive touched the lives of so many. His dedication to business strengthened our communities, especially his home of Cullman; his military service inspired many Americans across our Nation; and his love for others impacted all who had the honor of knowing him.

A native of Falkville, AL, Roy grew up with three brothers and two sisters, all of whom learned the importance of hard work, public service, and a strong love for their community. Roy's father was a notable businessman who also served as the mayor of Falkville. Roy's own passion for business started from a young age when he began delivering newspapers at age 9. He attended St. Bernard Preparatory School and later graduated from Gumpton-Jones College of Mortuary Science.

After his graduation, Roy served as a private first class for the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II. Roy was incredibly proud of his service to our country, and at the time of his death, he was the oldest living marine in the United States. His bravery, perseverance, and love for our Nation were driving forces behind his exceptional military service. Though his service was just the beginning of his career, Roy was a marine until his final breath; honorable, courageous, and committed.

After his time in the Marines, Roy began working at the family funeral services business. He was a trained funeral director and mortician, and under his family's leadership, the business grew precipitously, serving families all across north Alabama. During the most difficult moments of someone's life, Roy lent a helping hand, a listening ear, and a space to grieve. It takes a special person to work in the funeral industry, and Roy was certainly that. His compassion and guidance brought consolation to so many.

When Roy returned to Cullman, he purchased the historic Cullman home, the Borkenau. It became the backdrop to so many occasions, from family reunions to business meetings to holiday parties. In Cullman, Roy began working in the auto industry, operating the Drinkard Chevrolet Company dealership from 1955 until 1974. For Roy, car sales were never about the cars; they were about the people he met, the deals he created, and the problems he solved.

Using his passion for people and business, Roy began Drinkard Development, a commercial real estate management company. Drinkard Development's early projects included Cullman's Town Square Shopping Center and King Edward Shopping Center. Soon, the business expanded into neighboring counties and even beyond Alabama into Tennessee, Kentucky, Louisiana, Ohio, and more. Soon, Roy and his partners became leading developers in the Nation, working as head developers for Kmart in 1981 and for Kroger in 1982. He worked with numerous prominent retailers including Walmart, Kroger, and AMC Theatres. After becoming an approved developer for the General Services Administration, he also helped to develop government facilities throughout the Southeast region. Through it all, Roy viewed Drinkard Development as more than just a job; it was a calling and one that gave him an even larger family.

Roy's devotion to his Cullman community extended far beyond Drinkard Development. Roy was among the original members of the Flying Fifty, business and civic leaders known for traveling throughout the country to attract new industry and investment to the area. He devoted nearly three decades to leading the Cullman Industrial Development Board and held numerous other local leadership positions, including president of the Cullman County Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the Cullman Planning Commission. His work helped create jobs, strengthen the local economy, and shape the community he loved. His commitment to service was also evident through his nearly 84 years as a Freemason and through his longtime membership in First Baptist Church of Cullman.

Expanding access to education was another cornerstone of Roy's public service. He served as a director of what is now Wallace State Community College and later chaired the Wallace State Foundation, helping expand opportunities for students through scholarships, donating land, and other initiatives. In 2000, then-Governor Don Siegelman appointed Roy to the Troy University Board of Trustees, beginning more than 25 years of service to a university he loved deeply. He remained devoted to Troy, its students and leaders, and its football program, continuing to serve on the board even through his 100th birthday.

Yet the accomplishments that filled Roy's resume never overshadowed what mattered most to him: family and friendship. He treasured fishing trips with his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, annual gatherings at Buck Island, visits to New Orleans, weekly ``Pawpaw's Night,'' and countless conversations around a fire or on a porch. He kept up with the milestones of his great-grandchildren, celebrated their accomplishments, and was never

too busy for a phone call or a story. At age 100, he even joined his great-grandson Julius's fraternity, another reminder of his curiosity, humor, and determination to remain connected to the generations that followed him.

Roy often summed up the wisdom of his 106 years with the simple command from the Gospel of John: to love one another. That principle captured the heart of a man who measured his life not only by the businesses he built, the communities he strengthened, and the institutions he served, but most importantly by the people he loved and the relationships he carried with him across generations. He leaves behind his daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great- great-granddaughter, along with countless relatives, friends, colleagues, and members of his Drinkard Development family. Roy Drinkard's extraordinary life was marked by more than a century of accomplishments; his most profound impact is reflected in the remarkable number of people who knew and loved him.

I am incredibly proud to honor the incredible life of Mr. Roy Drinkard, whose life serves as a reminder to greet each day with joy, love, and humor. His legacy and service to our great Nation will live on in Cullman, across our great State of Alabama, and throughout his family, friends, and colleagues.

Mr. President, I am honored to recognize Jimmy Rane for his leadership in serving on the America250 Commission. As one of just 16 private citizens on this bipartisan commission, Jimmy's vision, patriotism, and direction helped ensure that our great Nation's semiquincentennial anniversary reflected both America's historic past and the promise of her future. At a time when our country can feel divided, the America250 celebrations gave us a chance to come together around our shared history founding principles. Jimmy was instrumental in reigniting that flame of allegiance as we look ahead to America's next 250 years.

Jimmy understands the fulfillment of America's promises all too well. In 1907, his grandfather Giuseppe Reina journeyed to Ellis Island from his home of Cammarata, Sicily, in search of a better life for his young family. For years, he worked to build that life and instilled in his children, including Jimmy's father Tony, a deep sense of patriotism and pride in their adopted country. Jimmy's story--the grandson of an immigrant who arrived at Ellis Island now entrusted with the Nation's celebration of 250 years of independence--is the embodiment of the American Dream.

Jimmy was born and raised in Abbeville, AL. His father, a World War II veteran, operated several hotels and restaurants and later served as the president of Abbeville's local chamber of commerce, teaching Jimmy the importance of hard work, drive, and giving back. Jimmy became a first-generation college graduate, earning his bachelor's degree in business administration from Auburn University, where he was a member of Theta Xi fraternity. He went on to earn his J.D. from the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University and began his career at a Birmingham law firm.

Jimmy's path since then has been anything but conventional, but in every role he has poured in the same relentless drive to build the best possible product. After his wife's parents passed away, Jimmy returned to Abbeville to take over their lumber-treatment plant, turning the business from the brink of bankruptcy into Great Southern Wood, one of the largest companies in the industry, best known for its YellaWood brand. While running the company, Jimmy also opened his own law firm and served as a judge for Henry County. He later attended Harvard Business School's president management program, inspiring him to push Great Southern Wood to even greater heights.

Instead of relocating Great Southern Wood to a larger market, Jimmy chose to keep the company's headquarters in Abbeville, bringing economic revitalization back to his hometown. He has since restored several of Abbeville's historical buildings, made a lasting impact on Auburn University through prodigious philanthropic efforts, and founded the Jimmy Rane Foundation, which has awarded over 600 scholarships over the past quarter century. Jimmy's greatest legacy is not simply his business success, but rather what he has chosen to do with it. His service and community pride are what made him an indispensable member of the America250 Commission.

From an immigrant family's search for opportunity, to a young boy growing up in Abbeville, to an Auburn graduate, lawyer, entrepreneur, and now a leader in commemorating 250 years of American independence, Jimmy Rane's story is deeply and uniquely American. I am grateful for his service on the America250 Commission and for the time, energy, and patriotism he devoted to this historic undertaking. Alabama is honored to call him one of our own, and I am proud to recognize his indelible contributions to our State and to our Nation.

Mr. President, I ask for 2 minutes to be equally divided between myself and the Senator from Connecticut.

Mr. President, the Senate has a spine. That is exactly what we are doing here today is standing with a steel spine. We are standing against Putin's aggression.

You saw, this week, him actually attack innocent Ukrainians. Ballistic drones go, hit breweries. They hit innocent civilians working in warehouses. This is enough. Today, we stand together to say: We are going to cut off the flow of money to Putin.

Senator Lindsey Graham said that this part, the part that our colleague from Kentucky wants to rip out, was actually the heart of this bill; that this was the way to hit Putin where it hurt most.

Section 113 was carefully negotiated, and these authorities expire and are not permanent.

Today, we send a message to Vladimir Putin, and we give President Trump the tools he needs to end this war.

Mr. President, I am honored to recognize the life, legacy, and extraordinary service of Mobile native Sheriff Sam Cochran. After nearly five decades of service to our great State, Sheriff Cochran will be remembered for his extraordinary integrity, courage, and unwavering commitment to protecting others.

Sheriff Cochran was born and raised in Mobile, a community he spent a lifetime serving. After graduating from McGill-Toolen High School and earning both a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a master's degree in public administration from the University of South Alabama, he began a lifelong career in law enforcement. He was nominated to and graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy, a testament to his character, leadership, and heart for public service.

For over 31 years, Sheriff Cochran served with the Mobile Police Department, beginning as a police cadet and eventually rising through the ranks to become chief of police. During his decade as chief of MPD, he earned the trust and respect of both his fellow officers and the citizens he served through his principled leadership, dedication to bettering his community, and steadfast commitment to public safety.

In 2006, the Mobile County community elected him to serve as sheriff. During his four terms, Sheriff Cochran created an effective and respected law

enforcement department. His efforts resulted in a safer place to live, work, and raise a family. His proudest accomplishment, though, was leading the fight against the methamphetamine epidemic and championing legislation that strengthened controls on pseudoephedrine purchases, which dramatically reduced methamphetamine production across our State. His efforts no doubt saved thousands of lives and protected countless families in Mobile and across the State of Alabama.

Sheriff Cochran was committed to sharing knowledge, wisdom, and inspiration with the next generation of law enforcement officers. His mentorship prepared and encouraged many to lead with the same integrity, devotion, and kindness he exhibited throughout his career. In 2015, he was appointed to serve as a commissioner on the Alabama Peace Officers' Standards and Training Commission. His work helped shape future law enforcement officers, properly set training standards, and influenced officials throughout Alabama.

Sheriff Cochran's service extended far beyond the badge. He devoted decades of his life to organizations that uplifted and protected others, including the Drug Education Council, where he served for 26 years and was honored with the Joseph Treadwell Award in recognition of his leadership in prevention and education. He also generously gave his time to the Child Advocacy Center, Penelope House, the Alabama Safety Institute, the Boy Scouts of America, the Mobile County Communications District, and numerous other civic organizations dedicated to strengthening our communities.

Those who knew Sheriff Cochran understood that, to him, leadership was never about recognition; it was about service, earning trust, leading with character, and leaving every institution stronger than he found it. His life stands as a testament to the enduring values of duty, honor, and selfless service.

Today, I proudly honor Sheriff Sam Cochran, his lifetime of faithful service, and his passion for leadership. He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. May we honor his memory by striving to serve our communities with the same integrity, humility, and dedication that defined his remarkable life.

Mr. President, today I rise to remember the exceptional and abundant life of Benjamin Russell. Mr. Russell, or as many called him, ``Mr. Ben,'' was not just an icon in the Alexander City community; he was truly a trailblazer for the entire State of Alabama. As we celebrate his life, we honor his entrepreneurial spirit, boundless curiosity, and remarkable generosity. When you think of a life well-lived, Benjamin Russell's 88 years here on earth immediately come to mind.

Mr. Russell was a lifelong resident of Alexander City, attending Benjamin Russell High School, named after his grandfather; Baylor School; Indian Springs School; Mercer University; and the University of Alabama. After graduating, he worked for Russell Mills for a decade before being elected president of Russell Lands, a family land and timber business. What started as a 15-person company grew into a four- pronged organization, shaping the Lake Martin region as we know it today--all thanks to the steady leadership, vision, and dedication of Mr. Russell. Russell Lands' employment of over 500 people, operation in several counties across Alabama, and continuous investment in Lake Martin's property value are in large part thanks to Mr. Russell's tireless work and devotion.

Russell Lands has continued to expand, now owning one of Alabama's top golf courses, the Willow Point Golf and Country Club, creating an entire marine division devoted to four full-service marinas on Lake Martin, and starting ECON Company to promote the use of waste wood as an energy alternative to fuel oil. Mr. Russell's leadership has been critical to identifying needs around his community and investing in smart solutions, earning him induction into the University of Alabama Business Hall of Fame.

Mr. Russell's legacy extends far beyond his exceptional professional success. In 1987, he founded CARE, the world's largest private relief and development agency. As its longtime chair, he helped raise over $9 million for the humanitarian agency through the campaign, CARE Alabama. Alongside his beloved wife and high school sweetheart Luanne, Mr. Russell cofounded Children's Harbor, a nonprofit devoted to serving the families of seriously and chronically ill children. He was a generous contributor and supporter of the Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children at Children's of Alabama, Alexander City's Russell Medical Center, and the Benjamin Russell Center for Advanced Care. His philanthropy was transformational to the lives of children living with serious illnesses, as well as their families and loved ones.

His zeal and passion for life were evident to all who had the fortune of knowing him. Mr. Russell poured into a constantly evolving list of hobbies, from aviation to scuba diving, to demolition, to water conservation. He was endlessly curious, brave, and rich in experience. He had an insatiable desire to live life to the fullest and wore many hats throughout his 88 years: author, welder, artist, Eagle Scout, skydiver, hot air balloon aeronaut--the list goes on. But his most treasured titles were husband, father, grandfather, and uncle. His loss will leave an irreplaceable hole in his family and community.

It is an honor and a privilege to remember and honor Mr. Russell's consequential life. He was a cornerstone of Lake Martin and a driving force behind Alabama's success, and he leaves an indelible mark on our great State through his entrepreneurial spirit, overflowing generosity, and love of adventure. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, Alabamians and Americans who visit beautiful Lake Martin, and generations to come who will continue to benefit from his vision and leadership. May we all look to his example and be inspired to leave our own communities better than we found them.

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

Mr. President, 2 weeks ago, I stood alongside so many of my Senate colleagues from both sides of the aisle, in a press conference, to announce the Russia sanctions legislation. It was just 3 days before that that this legislation and this cause lost its champion, Senator Lindsey Graham.

Today, many of us attended his service at the National Cathedral, and in typical Lindsey fashion, he somehow orchestrated a vote on Ukraine's future--on peace through strength--on that very same day.

While this sanctions bill quickly amassed bipartisan support across the Senate, it took more than a year of tireless work by one man and a few friends--Senator Dick Blumenthal, Senator Jeanne Shaheen, and Senator Roger Wicker--to finally get this to the floor.

Even though Lindsey is not physically with us today, his presence can

certainly be felt in this Chamber. During his 33 years of public service, Lindsey achieved a great deal. He used his role on the Senate Appropriations Committee to make sure that South Carolina's hard-earned taxpayer dollars went back home. He was a fierce and outspoken advocate for the most vulnerable among us--the unborn. He led the fight to repeal section 230 because he believed in protecting the next generation online. He believed in blind justice, in defending the Constitution, and in confirming judges to the bench who would uphold the law. And he was an incredible colleague, mentor, and friend.

This list of accomplishments, while it doesn't even span all of the things he did, is impressive, but it is this legislation--this legislation we are voting on today--that he told me would be the most consequential piece of legislation that he ever led and got to the President's desk. Now, that is saying something.

It is an honor to now help champion one of his highest priorities, and not just for Lindsey, but importantly for the doctrine which he so deeply and passionately believed; that is, peace through strength.

Today, we have an opportunity to advance this legislation at a critical juncture in the war, where Russia is the weakest that it has been since the start of the war more than 4 years ago. This legislation will give the President the tools and the economic firepower that he needs to sanction individuals who fund Russian war and its machine, to stop countries from purchasing Russian oil and gas that is Putin's financial lifeline, and it will also hold the regime in Tehran accountable for fueling 47 years of terrorism around the globe.

There is no reason this legislation should not advance with overwhelming bipartisan support, and I hope that that is what we see here today.

Ukraine and the world need this war of aggression to end.

As I reflected today on Lindsey's service and his life and so many memories that I have of him, one thing came to mind. When we were leaving Normandy after being there for the 80th anniversary of D-day, he said to me: I want you to remember how important the decisions we, as political leaders, make because if we fail to do our job, young men and women are sent into harm's way. He said: There is no doubt the ``greatest generation'' earned that title, and he said the decision that was in front of us right now--as he reflected on all of this--was that people miscalculated Hitler. He said many were doing the exact same thing to Putin, and he believed that that miscalculation would ultimately be an enormous mistake.

So let's honor Lindsey's memory the best way we know how, by responding to Putin's war of aggression with a show of strength and vote today to hold the Kremlin accountable. It is time now to get the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 to the President's desk. I hope my colleagues will join me in doing just that this evening.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of an exceptional Alabamian, Ms. Vera Benesby Jordan. Vera was an incredible woman--a true steward of the Lord, a generous public servant, a deeply loving daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, and someone I was proud to know.

A lifelong resident of Montgomery, Vera was born on December 13, 1971, to parents Richard S. Jordan, Jr., and Viola Howze Jordan. From an early age, Vera was an involved and gifted student, excelling both academically and in her extracurricular activities, later earning her induction into the Lee High School Hall of Fame.

Her enthusiasm for pouring her time and talents into her campus community continued at Spelman College, where she earned a bachelor of arts degree in history and minor in secondary education. There, she held no shortage of leadership positions in student government, Kappa Delta Epsilon, the Morehouse Maroon Tigers Cheer Team, Mortar Board, and several other campus clubs. Vera also served as the president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Mu Pi Chapter and remained an active life member in the Beta Nu Omega Chapter. She furthered her higher education at both the University of Pennsylvania and Auburn University of Montgomery where she earned master's degrees. For Vera, education was a lifelong pursuit and she always embraced the opportunity to learn.

Her involvement at these universities was just the beginning of how she would positively impact those around her across the great State of Alabama. For 15 years, Vera served as a congressional field representative for U.S. Senator Richard Shelby. I had the privilege of working alongside Vera for several of those years, where we supported Senator Shelby in his efforts to strengthen both Alabama and our Nation. It was an honor to witness her incredible ability to connect with Alabamians, work through issues, and deliver for our State. By the time she retired in 2021, Vera was beloved and well-respected by her colleagues and the people of Alabama.

Beyond serving her State through her professional career, Vera was also an active volunteer throughout the Montgomery community. From her role as the president of the Montgomery (AL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, to supporting Habitat for Humanity, to serving on the Metro YMCA Board and so much more, Vera devoted her free time to uplifting, strengthening, and advocating for those around her. She was a shining example of a true servant leader.

Vera's most important calling was to live a life of great faith. As a fifth-generation member of Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, Vera's devotion to the Lord was the foundation of her life. Every choice she made was rooted in her trust in God and in every action she took, she sought to spread His love. She touched countless lives through her deep faith in the Lord, and while her earthly journey has come to an end, I am encouraged that her Heavenly one has just begun.

While Vera's legacy of public service is unmistakably woven throughout the Montgomery community, her spirit will truly live on through her pride and joy; her family and friends. Vera treasured her relationships with her mother; sisters Sharon V. Jordan, LaFreeda M. Jordan, and Richele Jordan-Davis; nephews Richard Davis, Nyles Davis, and Bray Davis; and brother-in-law Daryl Davis. She loved her family deeply and offered them wisdom, and encouragement whenever possible. Vera also worked to cultivate lifelong friendships and will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and support.

As we mourn this devastating loss to the Montgomery community, I pray that Vera's loved ones find peace in knowing how profoundly she impacted and bettered those around her. She was truly one of a kind, a leader with a servant's heart, steadfast faith in the Lord, and a remarkable ability to create meaningful change. Vera will be greatly missed. I am honored to share her story and help celebrate the memory of an extraordinary woman.

Mr. President, I am honored to recognize Mr. Barry Gosnell, an exceptional public servant, business leader, and innovator whose more than four decades of leadership in government and industry have strengthened our national defense, advanced technological innovation, and fostered economic growth throughout the Tennessee Valley and beyond.

A longtime leader at Redstone Arsenal, Mr. Gosnell devoted 28 years of civilian service to advancing engineering excellence, innovation, and mission effectiveness in support of the American warfighter. Most recently serving as deputy director of the Software Engineering Directorate, he helped lead one of the Army's most vital technical organizations through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. As a principal architect of that success, Mr. Gosnell played a central role in the directorate's 40-percent increase in business revenue, reaching $1.1 billion in fiscal year 2012, while the organization expanded to more than 3,000 government and contract engineers supporting some of our Nation's most important defense programs.

Before serving as deputy director, Mr. Gosnell led the Acquisition and Technology Engineering Division for 14 years and earned a reputation as a

trusted and highly capable executive leader. During his tenure, he oversaw the reassignment of engineers and technical personnel to establish two new divisions, strengthening organizational capability and increasing government engineering capacity by 15 percent. Over the course of his leadership, he simultaneously served in multiple demanding roles, including deputy director, fire support division chief, head of special projects, and oversight of critical business management functions, reflecting the confidence his superiors and colleagues consistently placed in his leadership.

Following his distinguished government career, Mr. Gosnell continued his service to the defense community through his leadership at COLSA Corporation. As chief executive officer, he has overseen one of the most successful periods in the company's history. Under his guidance, COLSA achieved record growth, generating more than $400 million in new revenue during 2024 and 2025 alone. Despite significant industry-wide challenges resulting from Federal contract reviews and reductions in professional services spending, COLSA remained resilient and well- positioned for continued success. Mr. Gosnell fostered a culture of collaboration, accountability, and open communication, empowering leaders throughout the organization to contribute ideas and pursue innovative solutions. He strengthened strategic partnerships across the Huntsville and Eglin defense communities, resulting in increased prime contract awards and valuable teaming opportunities. Recognizing the importance of disciplined growth, he established rigorous business development processes that enhanced corporate performance and maintained a strong pipeline of future opportunities. He also helped position COLSA at the forefront of emerging technologies by leading the company's expansion into uncrewed systems, assembling highly skilled teams and helping bring innovative commercial drone technologies to market. Throughout his tenure, he remained steadfastly focused on long- term growth while ensuring that every decision reflected the four values established by COLSA's founder, Dr. Frank J. Collazo: teamwork, integrity, people, and customer satisfaction.

Mr. Gosnell's career has been defined by innovation and forward- thinking leadership. He played a pivotal role in advancing the use of game-based technologies for military training and recruiting, helping bring to life the groundbreaking America's Army program, which reached more than 10 million registered users and became one of the most widely recognized online military engagement tools in the world. His vision in leveraging emerging technology helped modernize how the Army communicates with and inspires future generations of servicemembers.

His contributions to cyber security and systems engineering have likewise left a lasting mark. Mr. Gosnell was instrumental in developing Software Engineering Directorate capabilities to secure critical operational and training systems against evolving cyber threats, strengthening the Army's information assurance posture during a period of rapidly increasing digital risk. He also played a central role in expanding systems integration laboratory concepts to aviation platforms, enabling improved interoperability, enhanced testing, and significant cost savings across multiple Army airframes, including the AH-64 Apache, UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-47 Chinook, and other mission- critical platforms.

Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Gosnell consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strengthening America's defense capabilities while fostering technical excellence within government and industry alike. His work in missile defense systems testing, aviation interoperability, cyber security, business leadership, and organizational development has had an enduring impact, directly supporting the readiness of our armed forces and the strength of Alabama's defense industrial base.

I am pleased to join my colleagues and the citizens of Alabama in expressing our sincere gratitude to Mr. Barry Gosnell for his extraordinary leadership, innovation, and faithful service to the U.S. Army, the defense community, and our Nation. His career stands as a testament to excellence in public service, principled leadership, and a steadfast commitment to those he serves. Mr. Gosnell is truly an outstanding American.

Mr. President, I am honored to recognize the extraordinary service of MG Thomas O'Connor on his retirement from the U.S. Army after more than three decades of distinguished service to our Nation.

Major General O'Connor has devoted his life to the defense of our country and has served with integrity, professionalism, and bravery. Since he commissioned from the U.S. Military Academy in 1994, Major General O'Connor has led a multitude of operational assignments, from commanding cavalry troops during the height of the Global War on Terror to being a key driver of modernization in Army aviation. Alabama, our Nation, and our entire globe are safer and more secure thanks to the discipline, dedication, and heroism of Major General O'Connor.

Over the course of his exceptional career, Major General O'Connor has held key leadership positions at every level of command, including company command at Fort Hood, command of the 2d Squadron, 6th Cavalry in Afghanistan, and leadership of the Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division at Fort Bliss. He has served abroad on numerous deployments with the 101st Airborne Division and the 25th Infantry Division, including historic Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Atlantic Resolve. He has earned an exemplary reputation as a steadfast and skilled combat leader, and his experiences have provided him with a profound understanding of the needs of the American warfighter. His extensive tactical leadership, unwavering devotion to his fellow soldiers, and unique gift for combat strategy represent the absolute best that the U.S. Army has to offer.

While Major General O'Connor has played a pivotal role in strengthening military readiness, maximizing operational effectiveness, and prioritizing modernization abroad, his leadership at home is equally impressive. As commanding general of the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL, he played a pivotal role in strengthening our aviation and missile lethality around the globe. Additionally, as deputy commander of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, located at Fort Rucker, Major General O'Connor further strengthened the future of Army aviation. Most recently, in his role as the Director of Force Development for the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Major General O'Connor has transformed the Army's modernization efforts. His leadership has directly ensured that American forces remained prepared, capable, and ready to respond to emerging global threats.

Major General O'Connor's career exemplifies the highest standards and values of the U.S. Army: courage, vision, rigor, and a commitment to duty. His service has strengthened our military, safeguarded our national security, and inspired countless soldiers who served alongside him.

I wish to extend my deep gratitude to MG Thomas O'Connor for his lifetime of highly respected and faithful service to the U.S. Army. On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank him and his entire family for their sacrifices and wish them the best as they enter into this new season of life. His legacy of courage and commitment will endure for generations to come.

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

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the previously scheduled rollcall vote begin immediately.

I ask for the yeas and nays.

I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. President, today, I rise to honor Lulu Gribbin and to celebrate that Lulu's Law has now passed both the Senate and, as of yesterday, the House of Representatives.

I want to take you back a second.

So Lulu Gribbin has inspired the world. And for those of you who don't know her story, you have to go look it up. This child, 15 years old, on June 7, 2 years ago--almost 2 years ago--was doing what so many families do, particularly from Alabama. She was enjoying the gulf coast.

She was looking for a sand dollar with one of her friends when, unfortunately, she was attacked by a shark. In the moments that followed, she lost her left arm, and she lost her right leg. But she lost two-thirds of the blood from her body in the moments following. It is literally by God's grace that that precious child is still with us.

There were doctors and EMTs and nurses and Good Samaritans that came to her aid and her rescue immediately. As they worked diligently to save Lulu and to figure out what the pathway forward was, the world became inspired by her grit, by her grace, by her resilience, by her toughness, and by her attitude of positivity and saying: How can I take what has happened to me and make sure other people's lives are better?

Lulu is one of four. She is actually a twin. We loved hosting her entire family here yesterday. It was such a special moment. Lulu walked out onto the House floor and got to be there when they voted for this law in her name--this law that she said is going to protect people. It is going to make beachgoers safer, and it is going to make the country stronger and better.

So what Lulu's Law does is actually really simple. And when you think about how this came to be, we were talking about this--a group of friends of mine, a group of women--and we were talking about what happened to Lulu and the events that followed. And we said ``Golly,'' and one woman said, if there had just been an alert that they knew a shark attack had occurred--because to know this law, you have to know Lulu's story.

Just 90 minutes before Lulu was attacked, a woman from Virginia, Elisabeth Foley, was attacked by a shark and lost her left hand. It was just a short 2-plus miles down the way, on the beach where Lulu was attacked, 90 minutes later. If she had had any idea about Elisabeth Foley's attack, she and her friends would never have been in the water.

So what this does is, it just authorizes local, State, and Tribal leaders to be able to utilize the wireless alert system if an attack occurs. It is simple. It is common sense.

When I called Lulu's parents, Joe and Ann Blair Gribbin, who have just--their resiliency, their love for their daughter, the foundation they have created are just nothing short of remarkable.

They said: We have been talking about this exact same thing.

When we brought the idea forward--I want to thank my colleague from Hawaii, Senator Brian Schatz, for his

leadership on this effort. He immediately joined alongside me and said: This is a small tweak that can make a big different.

So now, when these events occur off the coast, whether it be anywhere from the east coast to the west coast, to the Gulf of America or beyond, we will be authorized and able to use that wireless alert system, ping the phones in that area, let people know of a dangerous environment, and get more kids, more families, more people to safety.

This honors Lulu, and it honors the spirit in which she has dealt with the unthinkable, which is: How am I going to take what happened to me and positively impact others?

Yesterday, as we stood with Leader Scalise--and he was so gracious to have her up and to be able to celebrate with her afterward--she said: We are making a difference. We are making a positive impact, and that is what this is all about.

Between that and her foundation that she started--it is Lulu; and you can go Lulu Strong Foundation--she helps kids and others that need help with prosthetics.

She has been remarkable. She was telling us yesterday that she used to play volleyball. Now she plays golf and much better than me--much better than me.

But go look her up. Go be inspired by her faith, by her grit, by her resiliency. She is a 17-year-old Alabamian that is truly changing the world. She took a circumstance that people thought was unthinkable and has made a positive impact that I know is going to change and save lives.

And it was an honor to carry this piece of legislation. I am grateful to Senator Schatz. I am grateful to Congressman Palmer, who carried it in the House. And we look forward to standing beside the President and signing this into law in Lulu's honor and to make sure that beach season is safer as a result.

I yield the floor.