Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to two individuals whose ongoing dedication and contributions to the community of Temecula, California have been exceptional. Temecula has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent to make their communities a better place to live and work. Gerry and Rosie Wilson are two of these individuals. On February 22, 2014, Gerry and Rosie were honored as the ``Lifetime Achievement Award'' recipients at the Temecula Chamber of Commerce Installation and Awards Gala for all that they have done.

Born and raised in the heart of the Midwest, Rosie and Gerry came from humble beginnings. This foundation instilled quality values in the pair that are exemplified to this day. It was almost fate that Rosie and Gerry met one day on a train. She was on her way home to Iowa to celebrate Christmas with her family after having set up a cerebral palsy clinic in Boise, Idaho and he sat down across from her. Not too shortly after, they were walking down the wedding aisle, ready to begin their life together. In a matter of two and a half years, the pair had adopted a child and given birth to three more. Their children became their top priorities.

As their children grew older, however, the Wilson's aspirations grew bigger. At their children's suggestion, the couple began to consider opening a winery. Gerry had never been known as a big risk taker; in fact, he made his living as a financial advisor. He was careful to consider every aspect of this huge investment that may have required their entire life savings. After happening upon Temecula, California in 1996, Gerry and Rosie became convinced that this was the right move for them and their dream became a reality when they purchased a small winery named Wilson Creek Winery that same year.

In 1997, Gerry and Rosie's three children and their families picked up and moved to Temecula to begin working alongside their parents at the winery, which officially opened its tasting room doors in 2000. The family's values have contributed immensely to the success of the business. It is evident that each individual contributes a certain expertise to the day-to-day operations of the winery, creating a dynamic business model.

The Wilson's hard work and dedication have grown Wilson Creek Winery into an incredible business over the years. They have single-handedly created 20 fulltime, and 30 part time jobs. Today, the winery spans 90 acres from which they sell over 30,000 cases of wine each year. 1,000 visitors a weekend walk through the tasting room doors to experience the ambiance and wine the couple has worked so hard to create. For all of the growth and success Gerry and Rosie have contributed to Temecula, the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce awarded the winery ``Gold Business of the Year'' for 2004.

Not only have Rosie and Gerry contributed tremendously to the economic growth of the city, but they have always made sure to also give back to their community. Every year, the couple hosts a variety of charity events at Wilson Creek Winery, bringing in hundreds of thousands of dollars to help local organizations and individuals in need. In 2004, The Wilsons hosted a benefit for families affected by a wildfire that came within two miles of the winery, raising $40,000 in one night. More recently, they have hosted fundraisers for the Junior Diabetes Foundation, Special Olympics, Rotary International, Alzheimer's research, and a local animal shelter.

The Wilson's tireless passion for service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Temecula, California. I am proud to call Gerry and Rosie fellow community members, Americans and friends. I know that many individuals are grateful for their service and salute them as they receive this well-deserved Lifetime Achievement Award.

Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Valley Emergency Water Delivery Act.

Albert Einstein is quoted as saying:

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and

over again and expecting different results.

That just about sums up California's water policy today. Time and time again, we have let Californians down by diverting water away from our communities because of Federal practices based on unfair priorities.

California is headed toward an economic calamity unless meaningful action is taken. Ongoing drought conditions combined with regulatory restrictions have placed a tremendous strain on California water supplies. Today, we are offering a first step to a solution to the devastating drought that California is facing.

This is not just a California problem. The Central Valley of California produces a significant amount of our Nation's crops. The devastation caused by this drought will reverberate through the country in the form of soaring food prices.

Water officials across the State are taking responsible steps to ramp up conservation efforts and stretch every drop of water that we do have. Unfortunately, Congress and our Federal regulatory agencies have failed to take a similar approach during these trying times. With our State facing an unprecedented water shortage, it is time for Congress to end the regulatory restrictions that are outdated and ineffective.

Like many Californians, I am tired of seeing millions and millions of gallons of water that could go to the people of California instead being dumped in the Pacific Ocean because of Federal regulations that punish families, farmers and the economy. It has been mentioned here just last year that 800,000 acre feet of water was flushed in the ocean during unprecedented rains. We should never be wasting that amount of water when people are suffering from a drought.

Today, the House can change that equation, restore balance between protecting the environment and provide water to the people who need it.

I want to thank and commend my colleague, David Valadao, for his passion and leadership on this issue. He has been here only a short time, but he is already making a tremendous impact on the Central Valley.

I urge all my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to our country, state and community are exceptional. We have been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent to make their communities, and country, a better place to live and work. Jack Wyatt is one of these individuals. Jack's many accomplishments are wide ranging, as he has made his mark as a successful businessman, a decorated member of the military and an active supporter of the community. On February 4, 2014, Jack will be honored by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors for all he has done.

Jack is the true definition of an American patriot and hero. A 35 year veteran, Jack represented his country proudly, serving in four theaters of war during his long career. He has truly seen it all, being shot down, and eventually rescued, while in Vietnam. It is no surprise that he holds commendations from five former United State's Presidents. Jack has since retired as a Captain in the Navy Reserve, though his advice and expertise remain highly sought after. In the early 1990's Jack turned down an Admiralship in Washington D.C., as it meant that he would have to move from his beloved city of Corona, California, out east to the Pentagon.

From 2000 to 2001, Jack was assigned to lead a special project by the Navy's Chief of Information, Thomas Jurkowski, in conjunction with his tasking by the Secretary of the Navy, Richard Danzig, and Secretary of Defense, Donald Rumsfeld. The project, ``Vision 21,'' was created to develop a ``lessons learned'' program following Operation Desert Storm and Operation Allied Force. Due to the success of the program, Jack and many members of his team were awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. More recently, Jack became an advisor to the United States Secretary of the Navy on strategy planning, international affairs, and policy, and also served as Public Affairs Advisor to the Commander of the Naval Reserve Force of Western Region, San Diego.

Not only has Jack served his country proudly, he has also contributed to his community's economic and developmental growth. After retiring from active duty, Jack began a long career, spanning 28 years, with Southern California Edison. His focus in management and public policy development garnered the company increased success. Jack went on to become Regional Director for the Inland Empire from 1985 to 1999, and his responsibility covered three counties and 56 cities, with an annual revenue base of $3.5 billion dollars.

With his influence and knowledge of the industry, Jack took a leap of faith and started his own company, Strategic Connections, Inc. (SCI) in 1999. This organization of professionals and specialists advises executives and public officials on a wide array of utility issues including service, leadership and strategy. With Jack's guidance, the company has grown to be a leader in the industry within Southern California.

I have come to know Jack well through many years working together on a variety of projects in California. I can personally attest to his incredible work-ethic, professionalism, and positive attitude. In light of all Jack has done for Southern California and our country, it is only fitting that he be honored by the Board of Supervisors for his more than 30 years of dedicated commitment to our community. Jack's honorable service and tireless passion for public service has contributed immensely to the betterment of our country, state and community. I am proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many individuals are grateful for his service and salute him on this great milestone.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community are exceptional. Lake Elsinore has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Robert E. ``Bob'' Magee is one of these individuals. On January 25, 2014, Bob will be honored as the 2013 ``John Packman Award'' recipient at the Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce Installation and Awards Gala.

Each year, the Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce awards one individual the John Packman Award. This individual is selected based on the criteria that they have given the highest level of service to his or her community in the past year. After evaluating all that Bob has done for our community, it became clear how worthy he is of this honor.

Bob was born and raised in the thriving city of Sacramento, California, to Ed and Lynn Magee as one of four children. Bob went on to graduate high school after his family moved to the sunny Southern California city of San Diego and later attended San Diego State University (SDSU), where he earned his degree in Public Administration with an Emphasis in City Planning. Bob's thriving career began when he interned for Assemblyman Larry Stirling's 77th District Office and later with the Planning Department of the City of Santee during his years at SDSU. Following these experiences, Bob's passion for public service ignited. His first job out of college led him to follow this passion to Lake Elsinore, where he

began to work with the city's Planning Department on a wide array of things, including reviewing development applications and supervising the city's Code Enforcement Program.

In 1995, Bob became the Director of Governmental Affairs for Recyc, Inc, where his experience eventually led him to become the Vice President of its parent Company, Gro West. His extensive work and specialization in Mining and Land Development, Heavy Equipment Rentals, and Wholesale Nurseries created an environment for tremendous growth within the region. In 2001, Bob expanded his experience in the field by accepting a position as Executive Officer for Forest Wood Fiber Products. His management style demonstrated through his roles in the business community led him to win a seat on the Lake Elsinore City Council in 2003. He would go on the win a second term in 2008, where he was selected by his colleagues to serve as the Lake Elsinore City Mayor, a position he has held four times.

It is hard to imagine that Bob would have any free time on his hands, yet has he always found time for his community. Bob was a Little League Baseball coach for virtually a decade during the 1990s, and prioritized public safety by organizing and instituting Neighborhood Watch groups throughout the area. He served as Vice Chairman of the County's Historical Commission, Chairman of the Lakeland Village Advisory Committee, Chairman of the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC), and as Chairman of the RCTC's Budget Subcommittee. He is also a dedicated member of the Riverside County Solid Waste Advisory Task Force, the Lake Elsinore Redevelopment Committee, the State Route 91 Advisory Committee, the Wells Fargo Inland Empire Community Board, and the Riverside County Republican Central Committee.

For all that he has done, it is no surprise that Bob has been the recipient of numerous community awards including being named ``Citizen of the Year'' by the Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce in 2005, ``Distinguished Citizen of the Year'' by the Tahquitz District of the Boy Scouts of America in 2010, and being appointed to the State Board of Fire Services by then Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger.

In his spare time, Bob enjoys off-road racing, riding motorcycles, golf, tennis and walking his dog. He and his wife, Gina, live in Lake Elsinore where they enjoy cheering on their son, Richard, who is serving in the United States Army.

Considering all that Bob has done for Lake Elsinore, the Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce named him their 2013 John Packman Award recipient. Bob's tireless passion for service has contributed immensely to the betterment of our community. He has been the heart and soul of many organizations and events and I am proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for his service and salute him as he receives this prestigious award.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community are exceptional. Lake Elsinore has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities better places to live and work. Dave Oster is one of these individuals. On January 25, 2014, Dave will be honored as the 2013 ``Citizen of the Year'' at the Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce Instalation and Awards Gala.

Dave was born and raised in the small town of Mantua, OH, where the friendly and respectful nature of the community created a family-like atmosphere. Dave grew up watching his father establish a successful career in human resources, and soon, his work ethic and values were formed. Growing up, Dave developed his passion for America's favorite pastime, baseball, and found himself consistently holding a leadership position as captain for many of his teams. Dave went on to graduate high school and attend Bowling Green State University and later Ohio Northern University, where he earned his degree in sports management. He was honored with his first leadership award, the Clyde A. Lamb Award, during his senior year at Ohio Northern.

Dave's thriving career in sports began when he interned for the Cleveland Force, a renowned soccer team based in Ohio. His first job out of college followed suit, as he became the General Manager for the minor league baseball team, the Geneva Cubs. Dave became involved in every facet of the organization, from concessions to clean up, and he established an environment of success and fun. Dave quickly learned how to grow a business and manage a staff, eventually leading him to win the John H. Johnson Award for team recognition and running of an organization.

After 4 years with the Geneva Cubs, Dave took his talent and drive to Delaware, where he began his job as Assistant General Manager for the Wilmington Blue Rocks minor league team. During a time when the organization was just beginning, Dave used his skills and expertise to help build the franchise from the ground up. He made sure the community saw every game as a ``must-attend'' event, and grew attendance from 800 to 6,000 fans, virtually selling out every home game. Dave soon made another move, ending up in Salem, VA, where he was promoted to General Manager of the Salem Avalanche. For all of his hard work, he was honored with the Executive of the Year award for the Carolina League.

Following his success on the East Coast, Dave took a huge leap of faith, and moved out West, where he found his new home with the Lake Elsinore Storm as the Owner and President. His contributions as a leader in the area resulted in huge economic growth and community involvement. For this, he was once again honored with the Executive of the Year Award in the California League. Aside from the tremendous work he has done to create success with The Storm, above all, he is most proud of the family he has found in the staff, and the passion he has for the community, the players and the franchise. 2013 marked Dave's 25th year in professional sports, and his 14th season with the Lake Elsinore Storm.

Dave is most known as an effective leader with a natural ability to organize the efforts and goodwill of others. He is an enthusiastic team builder who enjoys encouraging creativity in the staff that he leads. Considering all that Dave has done for Lake Elsinore, the Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce named him their 2013 Citizen of the Year. Dave's tireless passion for service has contributed immensely to the betterment of our community. He has been the heart and soul of many organizations and events and I am proud to call him a fellow community member, American, and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for his service and salute him as he receives this prestigious award.

The gentleman is correct. PILT has been a mandatory program under the jurisdiction of authorizing committees since fiscal year 2008. Fiscal year 2007 was the last year that PILT was funded with discretionary funds. In fact, funding for PILT last year was provided within the MAP-21 transportation bill.

Had PILT funding been provided in the Interior division of the omnibus, the committee would not have been able to adequately address other critical issues important to the western Members.

PILT is very important to my own State of California, which is the largest recipient of PILT payments, with over $41 million received in fiscal year 2013. Like my good friend, I am absolutely committed to securing PILT funding for our counties in fiscal year 2014.

It is my understanding that Chairman Lucas has agreed to carry PILT funding in the farm bill in the conference report.

Chairman Lucas, do you concur?

Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the fiscal year 2014 omnibus appropriations bill. As the new chairman of the Interior and Environment Subcommittee, I could not be more pleased that we are on the verge of passing the first Interior spending bill since fiscal year 2012. The Interior division of the omnibus is well balanced and reflects what can be achieved when all sides work together to find common ground.

I especially want to thank my friend and subcommittee ranking member, Mr. Moran, for his support. I hope passage of this bill is a sign of good things to come and look forward to working with Mr. Moran as we move forward on the 2015 Interior bill. I am sorry to learn that he will be leaving Congress at the end of this year, but I am happy to have the opportunity to work with him in the coming months.

I also want to thank Chairman Rogers for his incredible support and leadership and for his role in bringing this omnibus bill forward and restoring order to the appropriations process.

I also want to thank our wonderful staff who worked so hard during the holidays, virtually every day, including Christmas Day, to bring this bill forward. It is a good bill, and I urge Members on both sides of the aisle to support it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community are exceptional. Corona has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Linda Pearson is one of these individuals. On January 16, 2014, Linda will be honored as the 2013 ``Citizen of the Year'' at the Corona Chamber of Commerce Installation and Awards Gala at the Eagle Glen Golf Club.

For over 34 years, Linda has tirelessly dedicated herself to serving the Corona Regional Medical Center. She is currently the Director of Marketing, Patient Relations, and Volunteers and is known for her creative thinking and quick problem solving.

In addition to working with the Corona Regional Medical Center, Linda is a committed member of many other local organizations and serves on multiple boards whose programs help ensure the betterment of our community. Over the years, she has held board member positions with the Circle City Rotary, Corona Chamber of Commerce, Foundation for Community and Family Health, and Crossroads Christian School. Linda Pearson truly is an example of an individual committed to decades of service and outstanding representation within Corona and Riverside County at large.

Linda is known as an effective leader with a natural ability to organize the efforts and goodwill of others. She is an enthusiastic team builder who enjoys the challenge of researching and analyzing to find viable solutions to improve the lives of all community members. In light of this, Linda was awarded the Corona-Norco YMCA Ira D. ``Cal'' Calvert Distinguished Service Award in May 2009, which honors exceptional community volunteers. She was also honored with the Distinguished Citizen Award by the Temescal District Boy Scouts of America.

Considering all that Linda has done for Corona, the Corona Chamber of Commerce named Linda their 2013 Citizen of the Year. Linda's tireless passion for service has contributed immensely to the betterment of our community. She has been the heart and soul of many organizations and events and I am proud to call her a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for her service and salute her as she receives this prestigious award.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Corona, California are exceptional. Corona has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make

their communities a better place to live and work. Bud Gordon is one of these individuals. On January 16, 2014, Bud will receive a prestigious honor when the Corona Chamber of Commerce gives him the Lifetime Achievement Award at the organization's annual awards and installation gala at the Eagle Glen Golf Club.

One of Bud's greatest achievements has been bringing immense growth in the region. He is the visionary behind the Gordon Automotive Group which includes several automotive dealerships throughout Riverside County and greater Southern California. Bud's commitment is seen especially at the Gordon Automotives Group's Headquarters, Quality Toyota of Corona, which carries the guiding principle of delivering service that is caring, defect-free, and timely. He has helped add numerous jobs in the area which has strengthened and bettered the economy in a profound way.

Bud is not only an innovative businessman, but also an active community member and has spent his life giving back in any way he can. Bud founded and formed the At Risk Children Angel Foundation in conjunction with members of the Corona Police Department to help supply local at risk children with sports equipment, registration fees, and even basic necessities. He has also been an active supporter of the Happy Hairston Youth Foundation, where he both raised and donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to help disadvantaged youth achieve their goals and pursue their dreams.

Inspired by his daughter, Bud also created a variety of educational programs to motivate and inform students in the community. He recreated the Oval Office at his Corona headquarters, forming the Quality Toyota West Wing, which has served over 195,000 students who have participated in the 2\1/2\-hour educational learning experience offered there. Bud also recognized a need for a hands-on trade school training facility, and thus, Uncle Bud's Automotive Museum was born. The Museum offers ``A Journey Through Automotive History,'' where students can both see and feel the history of the automobile and hear from docents regarding the variety of careers offered in the automotive industry.

Bud's passion and leadership are contagious and when it comes to commitment, he makes sure to match his words with his actions. He is a tireless supporter of the Settlement House, which provides food to the needy, the Trauma Intervention Program, the Alternatives to Domestic Violence Program, and various organizations supporting local schools.

In light of all he has done for the community of Corona, the Corona Chamber of Commerce has given him their Lifetime Achievement Award. Bud's tireless passion for service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Corona, California. He has been the heart and soul of many organizations and events and I am proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for his service and salute him as he receives this prestigious award.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Captain Sam Howe, who has worked in my office for the past year as a Defense Fellow. Capt Howe started in my office last January and he has truly been a pleasure to have on the staff. His extensive military experience has benefited the office tremendously as he offers a unique perspective, is always prepared, takes on any task and does it with a smile.

Captain Howe was born in 1986 and grew up with his two younger sisters, Georgia, 25, and Willa, 21, in the friendly suburb of Belmont, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston, where his parents, John and Teresa, still live today. In 2004, Capt Howe graduated from Belmont Hill School.

Capt Howe would go on to attend Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. While there, he earned a B.A. in Public Policy Studies with a minor in Political Science and met the love of his life, his wife, Casey Freeman. Following his junior year of college, in 2007, Capt Howe completed Marine Officer Candidate School in Quantico, Virginia, which involved a ten week screening and training program for prospective Marine Officers. Upon his graduation from Duke in 2008, Sam was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Following commissioning, Capt Howe returned to Quantico to attend the six month Basic Officer Course and, after being designated as a Marine Communications Officer, he completed the five month Basic Communications Officer Course. He was subsequently assigned to First Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, of Camp Pendleton, California.

While stationed in California, Capt Howe served as a platoon commander, company operations officer, company executive officer, and acting company commander. In those roles, he was responsible for the welfare and readiness of his Marines, planning and conducting training, administration, and preparing Marines for deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom or other contingencies. In 2010, Capt Howe completed a seven month deployment to Afghanistan, supervising a platoon of 55 Marines.

As a civilian, Capt Howe enjoys good food, craft beer, and traveling abroad, as well as running, skiing, working out, and reading. He completed the Marine Corps Marathon in 2012 after moving to Washington, D.C. from California. He and his wife live in Washington, D.C.

During his time in the office he has focused his efforts on defense acquisition, defense appropriations, the intelligence community, Navy SEALs training, and many other policy areas. He has been an invaluable resource to all my staff and I would also like to take this opportunity to thank his family for supporting him through the years; he truly is one impressive guy. On behalf of everyone in the office, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Captain Sam Howe for all his hard work and let him know that my office door is always open to him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Riverside County, California are exceptional. Riverside County has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Richard G. Rajaratnam, MD, FRCS, FACS, is one of these individuals. This year, Dr. Rajaratnam will end his tenure as Medical Director for the Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center.

Dr. Rajaratnam has managed and led the Kaiser Permanente Riverside Service Area as Area Medical Director for the Southern California Permanente Medical Group. He has been instrumental in achieving breakthroughs in research and medical advancements. These breakthroughs include the A.L.L. program, Diabetes Care advancement, Choosing Wisely, Patient-Centered Medical Home, and the development of the UCR Medical School to create physician leaders for tomorrow. Dr. Raj aratnam has embraced advancements in technology and science to improve the health of the over 370,000 Kaiser Permanente members in Riverside County.

Through his leadership, Dr. Rajaratnam has led the Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center to be the recipient of multiple prestigious awards, including Leapfrog, California Award for Performance Excellence (CAPE-Baldridge Criteria), Independent Health Care Association for Excellence in Medical Groups, Medicare 5-Star status, and the Office of Patient Advocate in the State of California maximum four-star rating for quality excellence. He is a vital member of the local medical community, having served as a Board Member of Riverside County Health Foundation, California Delegate to the American Medical Association, CMRI Physician Reviewer for the state of California, Board member of Inland Empire Health Information Exchange, Past President of the Riverside County Medical Association, UCR School of Medicine Graduate Medical Education Committee as well as Community Advisory Board.

While retiring from his current position as Medical Director, Dr. Rajaratnam will continue to be a participant in the medical field and contribute his experience, knowledge and expertise to his peers and future physicians.

In light of all Dr. Rajaratnam has done for Riverside County, it is only fitting that he be honored for his many years of dedicated service. Dr. Rajaratnam's tireless passion for the industry in which he serves has contributed immensely to the betterment of Riverside County and I am proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I commend Dr. Raj aratnam for his tireless work with the Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center and express sincere thanks and appreciation for his years of dedication to health care advancements, research, and the overall health of his fellow citizens. I know that many are grateful for his service and salute him as he prepares to end his tenure later this year.

I thank the gentleman from Alaska.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 330, a bill to designate a national Distinguished Flying Cross memorial in Riverside, California.

The memorial honors all current and former members of the Armed Forces who have been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

For the past two Congresses, the House has overwhelmingly passed this bill, and today I stand again in support of H.R. 330, which would designate the memorial at March Field Air Museum as the Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial.

The legislation is supported by the Distinguished Flying Cross Society, the Military Officers Association of America, the Air Force Association, the Air Force Sergeants Association, the Association of Naval Aviation, the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association, and the China-Burma-India Veterans Association. I would like to point out that the language in the bill specifically states that the designation shall not be construed to require or permit Federal funds to be expended for any purpose related to the national memorial. Funds have been and will continue to be raised through private means for these purposes.

Distinguished Flying Cross recipients have received the prestigious medal for their heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving in any capacity within the United States Armed Forces. There are many well-known people that have played a vital role in the history of military aviation that have received the award. This renowned group includes Captain Charles L. Lindbergh, former President George H.W. Bush, Brigadier General Jimmy Doolittle, General Curtis LeMay, Senator John McCain, Senator George McGovern, Jimmy Stewart, and Admiral Jim Stockdale, just to name a few.

The March Air Reserve Base, which hosts the C-17As of the 452nd Air Mobility Wing, is adjacent to the location of the memorial at March Field Air Museum. Visitors are able to witness active operational air units providing support to our troops around the world, which is an appropriate setting that honors the many aviators who have distinguished themselves by deeds performed in aerial flight.

I would like to thank those who have worked tirelessly to ensure this memorial was built and is properly designated in honor of the distinguished aviators who have served this great Nation. In particular, I would like to recognize Jim Champlin; his late wife, Trish; Distinguished Flying Cross Society's president, Chuck Sweeney; and the society's historian, Dr. Barry Lanman, who was instrumental in this effort.

Again, I hope you will join me in supporting the designation of the Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial at the March Field Air Museum and H.R. 330.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Veterans Economic Opportunity Act of 2013.

As our servicemembers return home from war, it is incumbent on all of us and all Americans to ensure that they are receiving the support and opportunities they need to succeed in civilian life. This bill establishes the Economic Opportunity Administration, which would focus its efforts entirely on veteran education, employment, small business, and housing. The bill also contains the text of legislation I introduced earlier this year along with my colleague from California, Representative Takano, which is vital to my and his congressional districts.

For community college districts that have multiple colleges as part of the district, the Department of Veterans Affairs requires each campus to certify that their veteran students are enrolled for a specific number of classes before the VA will disburse student benefits. Under current regulations, each of the colleges in the district must write letters to other colleges within the district to verify their classes and meet regulations. For the Riverside Community College District in Riverside, California, this unnecessary paperwork delays benefits to veterans and increases processing times and the costs to college districts as well as the VA.

This bill, which was wrapped into H.R. 2481, corrects that problem by permitting each college in the district to verify and certify veterans for all classes attended within the district rather than just for classes attended at that particular college. H.R. 331 would update the rules, which would mean veterans would receive their benefits sooner, and the VA would have less paperwork to process.

I would like to thank subcommittee Chairman Flores and his staff, Ranking Member Takano, full committee Chairman Miller, and full committee Ranking Member Michaud for their efforts to support our veterans, and specifically for the Veterans Economic Opportunity Act.

Madam Speaker, tonight I join my colleagues in honoring the life and legacy of a great man and an American patriot, Bill Young.

I keep looking to my right and expect to see him with that great smile, but I am sure tonight he is sitting at the right hand of God.

The death of Congressman Bill Young was a great loss for this Chamber, for our country, and for the millions of men and women in uniform who were Bill Young's priority for more than 40 years. Anyone who has served with Bill knew of his unwavering dedication to our Active Duty military, our veterans, and their families.

As chairman of both the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee and the full Appropriations Committee, he was both firm and fair. When it came to our troops, he was uncompromising and insisted on nothing but the best for the U.S. servicemembers.

Chairman Young was motivated by his genuine and deep concern for the well-being of the individual soldier, sailor, airman, marine, and guardsman. His concern went far beyond politics and policies. As many of you know, Bill and his wonderful wife, Beverly, took special interest in our wounded veterans, visiting the wounded regularly at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Whether in a committee hearing or in the military hospitals around the world, he was tireless in visiting, speaking with, and listening to these incredible servicemembers.

While we can't hope to replace Bill Young, perhaps we can follow his example and let his integrity, his gracious manner, his firm commitment to the men and women who protect this country serve as an inspiration to this Chamber as we continue to wrestle with the same issues to which he devoted his life.

On a personal note, I was honored to work with Chairman Young on the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. I was continually impressed by his depth of knowledge. I think it is safe to say that no one understood the Department of Defense quite like Bill Young. His knowledge, expertise, and compassion will be sorely missed on the subcommittee.

On my own behalf and on behalf of so many former Members who served with Bill, like our mutual friend and former chairman, Jerry Lewis, I extend my condolences to his wife, Beverly, his sons, and his entire family.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a group of individuals--heroes--who are receiving the recognition and honor they deserve for their service to our country. Operation Recognition is operated by the Riverside County Office of Education with assistance from the Riverside County Department of Veterans' Services. The program awards high school diplomas to veterans who missed completing high school due to military service in World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War, or for those who were interned in WWII Japanese-American relocation camps.

A recognition ceremony will be held on November 12, 2013, for the following individuals who received their high school diplomas through Operation Recognition:

Austin Elmer Lee Acord; David M. Barnes; Kenneth James Becker; Raymond Frederick Carter; Robert Dale Cloyd; Michael William Divel; Alan F. Gonsalves; Larry James Lyon; Cruz Martinez; Frank Ramirez Rodriguez; Frank Sandwell; Samson Charles Trevino; and Ruben David Zamora.

Our country owes a debt of gratitude to all the above recipients for their service and sacrifice. I salute all of these individuals and congratulate them on receiving their high school diploma.