Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to our country are exceptional. Today, the City of Norco will recognize and honor Army Specialist George Alan Ingalls for his ultimate sacrifice and proclaim today George Alan Ingalls Day.

George was a Norco resident who died in Vietnam on April 16, 1967. On that day, he threw himself onto a grenade to save the lives of the members of his squad. For his gallantry and self-devotion to his unit, George posthumously received the Congressional Medal of Honor.

In his youth, George was active in local sports, and attended Norco Junior High and later Corona High School. He also served as President of the youth group at the Community Church of Norco.

As we look at the incredibly rich military history of our country we realize that this history is comprised of men, just like George, who bravely fought for the ideals of freedom and democracy. Each story is unique and humbling for those of us who, far from the dangers they have faced, live our lives in relative comfort and ease. The goodness George brought to this world and the sacrifice he has made will always be remembered.

Mr. Speaker, our country has a proud history of honoring our military heroes, and in doing so we place an emphasis on recognizing servicemembers whose actions placed them in harm's way for the benefit of our Nation and their fellow soldiers.

It's because of this proud history that I have serious concerns about the Department of Defense placement of a newly established Distinguished Warfare Medal in the order of precedence. Surely it is appropriate to recognize servicemembers who make contributions through technology-driven warfare; however, I agree with the VFW that we must continue to preserve the sanctity of our medals for those Americans who sacrifice their personal safety for the safety of the country and their brothers in arms.

That is why I strongly support the effort led by my friend, Congressman Duncan Hunter, who is a decorated veteran himself, to alter the rank of the Distinguished Warfare Medal such that it ranks below the Purple Heart in precedence.

I would encourage all of my colleagues to join me by cosponsoring his bill, H.R. 833, and urge its passage.

Thank you, Mr. Ryan.

This is what principled, visionary, responsible leadership looks like. I commend Chairman Ryan and the entire team for this budget and for insisting on regular order. I also congratulate this body for finally forcing the Senate to do something--introduce a budget.

We owe it to our fellow Americans to be honest about the complex fiscal challenges and options before us. That's why today's debate is one of the most important we will have this year.

Nearly every day I hear from my hardworking constituents from southwestern Riverside County who have struggled tremendously over the last 5 years. Despite the challenges they face, they continue to make ends meet by

making tough fiscal decisions, whether it's for themselves, their families, or for their businesses.

Most Americans don't understand why their elected officials can't do the same. Instead, they see us jumping from one crisis to the next, putting their lives and their well-being on a constant roller coaster. Frankly, I don't understand it either.

You can't hide from the statistics. You don't have to be on the Budget Committee to understand our fiscal situation. A balanced budget is not a radical idea; it's a responsible one that the citizens of Riverside County and those around this country practice themselves.

Economists across the spectrum agree that our current path is leading us to a debt crisis should we fail to act. Make no mistake: we're on the warning track, and we should reverse course before we slam into the wall. All Americans should have real concern about what this means for the future prosperity of their own families and of our own Nation.

Under the Obama administration, U.S. public debt as a percentage of GDP is over 70 percent and growing.

As we've see with European nations, there appears to be a tipping point in the debt-to-GDP ratio, and at our current rate we are nearing dangerous territory. The reserve currency status of the dollar and our rank among world economies will only carry us for so long.

So what effect does this level of debt have on an economy and its citizens when things go south?

All you have to do is look at countries like Cyprus, Spain, and Greece. In the case of Greece, you see a depressed environment where the unemployment rate is over 26 percent; severe austerity cuts and overhauls have gutted worker benefits and the safety net system, harming seniors and the country's poorest populace; taxes on families and businesses have increased at a sharp rate; and divisive and violent social unrest has become commonplace. Most recently, we have seen a proposal to bail out Cyprus banks that would raid the savings accounts of its own population.

These are the realities of a debt-ridden country. These are the realities of liberal policies that tax too much, spend too much, borrow too much, and produce far too few jobs. We cannot afford the path that we're on.

Thankfully, we have time to change America's course, and the House Republican budget provides a 10-year plan. It puts the brakes on our unsustainable spending levels, lays out thoughtful program reforms to ensure essential government services are solvent for generations to come, prioritizes a comprehensive restructuring of our Tax Code to simplify the system, and improves our fiscal condition in a way that will allow our economy to grow providing opportunity to those that work hard no matter what station in life they start at.

Fortunately, after being prodded along, the Senate is joining the House in this conversation after a 4-year absence. I don't favor their approach to the task before us--a plan that never balances with more failed stimulus spending and additional tax hikes. I suspect the President's budget will be similar, once we finally we receive it. However, we welcome their proposals because we will have clear options laid before the American people, and we can have a comprehensive and honest discussion about future choices.

Vice President Biden famously said: Show me your budget and I'll tell you what you value. Well, with no budget submitted, we're all forced to conclude that the White House values delay and obfuscation.

Even given this nonfeasance, as an optimist I know this process will allow us to find common ground. Addressing issues of this magnitude is never easy or pretty, but it is a process worth taking. House Republicans continue to stand ready to work with the President and our Democratic colleagues in Congress to meet the complex challenges before us so that we can get our Nation back to a path to prosperity. Thankfully, the House Republican budget does exactly that.

With that, I urge a ``yes'' vote on H. Con. Res. 25.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the City of Lake Elsinore, the second oldest city in Riverside County. On April 9, 2013, the City will celebrate its 125th anniversary. Lake Elsinore has a rich and colorful past, and will continue to contribute to the landscape, diversity and history of our county and the state of California.

Settlers came to Lake Elsinore in the early 1800s for the natural springs which were said to have healing qualities. Rich and fertile farm lands and natural resources such as clay, coal, sand and gravel, kept the early settlers here. The birth of these industries brought the Butterfield stagecoach line through town. In 1858 a stop was established at the Juan Machado Adobe along Grand Avenue, part of which can still be seen today. In 1882 a rail line was extended through town and soon the Santa Fe train station was constructed one block off Main Street. Today, that station serves as the home of the Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce.

These early settlers established a town site around the lake, which they named Elsinore, after the town of Elsinore in Denmark immortalized by Shakespeare in his play Hamlet. On April 9, 1888 the town was incorporated, five years before the County of Riverside even existed.

In the 1920s and 1930s, Lake Elsinore was a weekend getaway for some of Hollywood's best-known stars. Famous residents included actor Bela Lugosi and founder of the Foursquare Church and radio personality Aimee Semple McPherson. According to local legend, some of the grand homes on the hills surrounding Lake Elsinore were also allegedly used as speakeasies and gambling dens during Prohibition. Their high perch above the valley floor afforded the occupants the opportunity to see the headlights of the County Sheriff from miles away.

In 1971, the Elsinore Grand Prix launched Lake Elsinore into the national spotlight when Bruce Brown released his movie ``On Any Sunday'' featuring Baja Champion Malcolm Smith and Steve McQueen. Today, the last race of the Grand Prix is called the Harvey Mushman, an alias McQueen often used when riding.

In 1972, citizens approved Lake Elsinore as a new name for the city to promote it as a prime destination for tourists. The city offers venues for professional baseball, Motocross, skydiving, sail planes, bowling, golf, water skiing, jet boats, fishing and even bow fishing. I encourage tourists from all over to come and enjoy southern California's only natural lake and the recreational paradise that is Lake Elsinore. I am honored to represent Lake Elsinore once again in the House and look forward to serving its residents as the Member of Congress for the 42nd District of California.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with my colleagues Congressman Darrell Issa, Congressman John Campbell and Congressman Dana Rohrabacher, and on behalf of the entire California Republican Congressional Delegation, to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to our country and state 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. General William Lyon is one of these individuals. General Lyon'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 March 9, 2013, General Lyon will be celebrating his 90th birthday.

General Lyon was born in 1923 in Los Angeles, California. Prior to entering the United States Army Air Corps in 1943, he attended the University of Southern California and the Dallas Aviation School and Air College. He completed the Air War College in 1971 and the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Senior Officers Orientation Course in 1972 and 1974. Additionally, he attended the Industrial College of the Armed Forces National Seminar in 1973. In 1943, General Lyon enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a reservist and continued serving as a civilian flight instructor until he received a direct appointment as a flight officer in June 1944. During World War II, he was assigned to the 6th Ferrying Group and ferried aircraft to the Pacific and European theaters. In 1945 he was assigned to the North African Division of the Air Transport Command and returned to the United States in 1946.

In 1947, General Lyon was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and participated in various Reserve assignments until his voluntary recall to active duty in 1951. He was then assigned to Headquarters Air Training Command as a staff pilot and was later transferred to the Military Air Transport Service, flying air evacuation and ferrying missions. In 1953 he volunteered for a tour of duty in Korea and flew 75 combat missions in the C-46 and C-47. From 1954 to 1963, General Lyon was assigned to various positions in the Reserve and served as a flight commander and operations officer. In 1963 he was named Commander of the 929th Tactical Airlift Squadron, March Air Force Base, California, and subsequently served as Commander of the parent unit, the 943d Tactical Airlift Group.

In June 1970, General Lyon was assigned as mobilization assistant to the commander, Sacramento Air Materiel Area, McClellan Air Force Base, California, and in February 1972, he became mobilization assistant to the Commander, Fifteenth Air Force at March Air Force Base. He was promoted to the grade of Major General on April 24, 1974, with date of rank May 24, 1972. In March 1974 he was appointed mobilization assistant to the commander in chief, Strategic Air Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, where he was involved in the planning of the transfer of designated KC-135 units to the Reserve Forces. In 1975, General Lyon was appointed by President Gerald R. Ford to serve as Chief of Air Force Reserve Headquarters at the Pentagon, where he was responsible for managing a $700 million budget as well as the activities of some 53,000 Air Force Reservists. Four years later, on April 16, 1979, he retired from military service.

General Lyon's many military decorations and awards include the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Presidential Unit Citation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Combat Readiness Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with hour glass device, and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.

More than 50 years ago, General Lyon started building homes for returning military personnel and others who wanted to make a life in California. This modest effort evolved to become William Lyon Homes, which is now one of the nation's largest private homebuilders. Headquartered in Newport Beach, California, William Lyon Homes has constructed more than 100,000 new residences in Arizona, California and Nevada.

General Lyon's business success isn't limited to homebuilding. In 1981 he and a partner purchased AirCal, a regional air carrier based in Newport Beach, California. General Lyon served as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer until 1987 when AirCal was purchased by American Airlines. His love of flying then led him to acquire Martin Aviation, a fixed

based operator, at John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California and in 2009 he established the Lyon Air Museum to preserve and promote the memory of WWII and ``The Greatest Generation.''

It is hard to imagine that General Lyon would have any free time on his hands yet he always found time for his community. He currently serves as a Director on the Segerstrom Center for the Arts Board, having been a former Chairman of that Board. General Lyon is the founding Chairman of the Orangewood Children's Foundation, and past Chairman of Boy Scouts of America, Orange County Council. Additionally, he has served as Board Chairman of the Alexis de Tocqueville Society of The United Way.

Throughout General Lyon's incredible life he has been loved and supported by his wonderful family including his wife Willa Dean Lyon, and children, Christine Lyon Rhoades, Mary Susan Lyon Isola, William H. Lyon, Marcia Stone and Byron Russell.

We have come to know General Lyon well through many years working together on a variety of projects in California. We can all personally attest to General Lyon's incredible work-ethic, professionalism, and positive attitude. In light of all General Lyon has done for southern California and our country, it is only fitting that he be honored as he celebrates his 90th birthday. General Lyon's honorable service to our country and tireless passion for public service has contributed immensely to the betterment of our country, state and community. We are proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many people are grateful for his service and salute him on this great milestone.

Mr. Speaker, I proudly stand with my good friend and fellow Californian, Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy, in strong support of this legislation we have both championed, H.R. 667, which will redesignate NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center as the Neil A. Armstrong Flight Research Center and Western Aeronautical Test Range as the Hugh L. Dryden Aeronautical Test Range.

One of the great benefits of public service here in the United States House of Representatives is the people you meet in all walks of life. I had the high honor and privilege of meeting Mr. Armstrong on several occasions before he passed away on August 25, 2012, especially when I was chairman of the Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee on Science.

Given his place as a revered global icon, Neil never sought the limelight, as Mr. Hall has said. He never lost his unassuming manner, his nature as a midwesterner, and values that his Ohio roots instilled in him. He was just a wonderful person.

Those of us who were old enough to witness firsthand when he took his first step on the surface of the Moon will never forget the great sense of pride in our country and inspiration in the ability he placed in mankind. There are few events in history that have had such profound and positive impact, transcending generations across the globe. H.R. 667 is just one way we can pay tribute to this great American hero.

This bill will accomplish three important goals: one, to honor Neil A. Armstrong, who served as an experimental research test pilot at the center from 1955 to 1962; to emphasize the contributions of that center to NASA's current space exploration mission; and to memorialize the extraordinary career of Dr. Hugh L. Dryden by naming the aeronautical test range, approximately 12,000 square miles of special-use airspace, in his honor.

As was said: That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind. This is a small step to recognize both Neil Armstrong and Hugh Dryden.

I urge my House colleagues to support passage of H.R. 667.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a dear friend of mine, Russell Walling. Russell passed away on Tuesday, February 5, 2013. A long time resident of Riverside, California, he was a pillar of the community and he will be deeply missed.

Russell was born December 7, 1917 in Douglas, Arizona, the son of Luther and Francis Walling. His family relocated to Riverside in 1927, where he attended Lowell Elementary School, Riverside Polytechnic High School and Riverside Community College. Following graduation he worked as a draftsman for the noted architect G. Stanley Wilson, and later moved to Los Angeles to work for a large architectural firm. Russell met the love of his life, LouElla Scott, at See's Candy where she worked and the two were married in 1941. Russell served his country honorably as a Lieutenant in the Navy Seabees during World War II.

After the war he returned to Riverside to work with his father, forming L.A. Walling & Son. Together they built many homes in the Wood Streets area, including Prince Albert Estates, the first exclusive custom tract homes in Riverside. In the mid-1950s Russell started Russell Walling, Inc. to continue residential building. His first commercial project was an A&W restaurant on University Avenue in Riverside. Over the years he built many large commercial buildings in Riverside, such as DeAnza Chevrolet, Caddock Electronics and Johnson Tractor. Russell's proudest accomplishment was the construction of an extensive complex of buildings for Bourns Incorporated, which won Building of the Year in 1962. In the early 1970s he built Los Amigos, the first private upscale condominiums on Victoria Avenue. In the late 1970s he purchased the original Security Pacific Bank building on the corner of University & Main, now known as the Walling Building.

It is hard to imagine that Russell would have any free time on his hands yet he always found time for his community. He had served as President of Riverside's Chamber of Commerce and Citizen of the Year; President of the Riverside Rotary Club; President of the Riverside Community Hospital Board; and President of the Monday Morning Group. A longtime member of the Victoria Club where he was first a caddy in his early years, and later an avid golfer, Russell and George Champion spearheaded a major three year renovation of the Victoria Club in the 1990s. Russell loved the outdoors and spent many years with his family at their trailer on the beach at El Morro near Laguna. He loved and cherished his time with family, especially his children and grandchildren. Russell and LouElla traveled extensively throughout Europe, Asia and South America. They spent many happy years doing annual fishing treks to Whaler's Cove off the rugged coast of Alaska's Admiralty Island.

Russell was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, LouElla; his brother Foster and sister, Mary. He is survived by his daughter Lee Walling Good of Grants Pass, Oregon; his son Terry Walling and daughter-in-law Cathleen of Riverside; grandchildren, Karen Lalonde of Greenwood, South Carolina; Tracy Cauble and Susanne McGee of Grants Pass, Oregon; David Good of Greenville, South Carolina; great grandchildren, Marrissa, Kaitlyn and Steven Franquez, Shelby and Caden Morrison, Madalyn and Gregory Cauble, and Jakob and Lukas McGee; and great great granddaughter Mya Franquez.

On Wednesday, February 13, 2013, a memorial service honoring Russell's life was held at the First Christian Church in Riverside. Russell will always be remembered for his incredible work ethic, generosity, contributions to the community and love of family. His dedication to his family, work, and community are a testament to a life lived well and a legacy that will continue. I extend my condolences to Russell's family and friends; although Russell may be gone, the light and goodness he brought to the world remain and will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a dear friend of mine, Beverly Jean Bloch. Beverly passed away on Wednesday, January 16, 2013. A resident of Corona for over a decade, she was a pillar of the community and will be deeply missed.

Beverly was born November 9, 1952 in Meeker, Colorado, the daughter of Calvin and Arlene (Gulliford) Fritzlan. Beverly grew up on a cattle and guest ranch, where her work ethic and values were formed. She attended school in Meeker and graduated with highest honors from Meeker High School in 1971. Beverly received an Associate's Degree at Seward Community College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Accounting at Oklahoma State University. In 1995, Beverly earned a Juris Doctor degree from Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles, California and began practicing family law in Anaheim Hills. She opened her second law office in Corona in 2000.

Beverly served on the Corona Regional Hospital Board of Directors, the Corona Library Foundation Board and was the Board President for the Corona YMCA. She was a member of the Norco Area Chamber of Commerce as well as the Corona Chamber of Commerce, where she served as Chairman of the Board of Directors in 2007. Beverly was a member of and served as Bequest and Living Trusts Chairman of the Southeast District California-Hawaii Elks Association, Corona 2045. She was a member of the Orange, Riverside and Los Angeles Counties Bar Associations as well as the California State Bar Association.

It is hard to imagine that Beverly would have any free time on her hands, yet she always found time for her community. She was a member of the Corona Rotary Club, the Corona Women's Improvement Club, the Norco Horsemen Association and the Riverside/Corona Council of the Navy League, serving as the Vice Adjutant. She loved to travel and visited many countries all over the world, but she always said that the most beautiful place on earth was her family's home at Fritzlan's Guest Ranch in Northwest Colorado's White River Valley.

Beverly is survived by her son Joseph Bloch; mother Arlene Fritzlan; sisters Mona (Al) Avey, Betsie (Leonard) Thompson, Jackie (Roger) Bissell and Sandie Fritzlan; granddaughters Anna and Madeline Bloch; friend Dean Herigstad; many nieces and nephews; and all of Meeker, Colorado. She was preceded in death by her father Calvin Fritzlan and nephew Gene Scritchfield.

On Saturday, January 26, 2013, a memorial honoring Beverly's extraordinary life will be held. Beverly will always be remembered for her incredible work ethic, generosity, contributions to the community and love of family. Her dedication to her family, work, and community are a testament to a life lived well and a legacy that will continue. I extend my condolences to Beverly's family and friends. Although Beverly may be gone, the light and goodness she brought to the world remain and will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to southern California are exceptional. Our community has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent to make their communities a better place to live and work. Claudia Luppino is one of these individuals. On Friday, January 4, 2013, Claudia ended her tenure as the Area Director for the Inland Area jurisdiction of the Social Security Administration (SSA) after 37 years of service.

Claudia grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania, where she and her future husband Bud were high school sweethearts. After graduating from Erie Business College, the young military wife began her government career with the U.S. Army Computer Systems Command at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, later transferring to March Air Force Base in Riverside. In 1977, after Bud left the Air Force, she began her career with Social Security as the Administrative Aide in the Riverside District office. Since then, she has held more than a dozen positions with the Agency, including Claims Representative, Operations Analyst and Operations Supervisor.

In 1985 Claudia was selected as the Area Analyst in the Inland Area Director's Office (ADO), and in 1987 she became the District Manager in the Redlands Office, where she served for two years before being selected as the Operations Officer in San Bernardino. In 1993 Claudia rejoined the Inland ADO as the Area Administrative Assistant, and later went on to serve as the Assistant District Manager in Palm Springs, District Manager in North Las Vegas, District Manager in Victorville, Deputy Area Director in the Inland Area Director's Office and the District Manager for the Riverside District. Claudia is a graduate of the Region IX Leadership Development Program and has received numerous awards, including the Regional Commissioner's Citation.

Claudia recently concluded an assignment as the Acting Area Director in the Los Angeles Metro Area. She served for over six months as the Acting Area Director in the Inland Area, where she oversaw 540 employees in 16 offices in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, and all of Nevada. It was a responsibility she took seriously. According to her, ``There is no other government agency that provides the critical services SSA does, providing retirement, survivors and disability benefits as well as Supplemental Security Income benefits to the American public.'' What she will miss most about her job, she said, ``is that very ability to make a difference in the lives of so many people.''

In her retirement, Claudia plans to help her husband Bud with his business, Bud's Tire and Wheel, Inc. in Riverside, and a shop in Moreno Valley. They will soon begin construction on a third location in Riverside. She also looks forward to traveling more, learning Italian and spending time with her three grandsons.

In light of all Claudia has done for southern California seniors, it is only fitting that she be honored for her many years of dedicated service. Claudia's tireless passion for public service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the Inland Empire 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 retires.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community are exceptional. Corona and Norco have 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. Yolanda Carillo is one of these individuals. On January 19, 2013, Yolanda will be honored as the ``Citizen of the Year'' at the Greater Corona Valley Chamber of Commerce Installation and Awards Gala.

Yolanda holds a dual Masters of Science degree in Organizational Leadership and Community Psychology, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services. She previously taught at a four year college institution and is a proud holder of a Child Development Program Administrator Certificate. Currently, Yolanda serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Corona-Norco Family YMCA, a post she has held since 1997. She is a highly motivated community builder and hardworking professional with proven administrative and organizational abilities. Yolanda is 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 our children, families and communities.

Yolanda's vision has grown from one YMCA site with 12 employees to today's YMCA of nine program sites with more than 85 employees. At the same time, she has assisted children who live in poverty by securing grants

worth millions of dollars from foundations, corporations, city, county, state and federal governments to establish programs for disadvantaged preschool, elementary, middle and high school students. Yolanda has also partnered with school districts, city, county and state Departments of Education as well as colleges, businesses and corporate sponsors to help underprivileged youth. The Corona-Norco Family YMCA under Yolanda's leadership has continued the successful partnership with the Calvert Foundation in sponsoring the Annual Ira D. ``Cal'' Calvert Distinguished Service Awards Dinner honoring exceptional community volunteers.

In addition to the YMCA, Yolanda is a member of many other community organizations and serves on multiple boards whose programs help children in our area. She is the City of Corona Planning Commissioner and Woman's Improvement Club Treasurer, and serves on the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Riverside Community College District Child Development Department Advisory Board, Riverside-Corona Navy League Council Board, United Neighbors Involving Today's Youth (UNITY) Board and Corona Police Community Partnership Association Board. She is a member of the Corona Rotary Club and is the immediate past State Board Chair of the California Child Development Administrators Association.

In light of all Yolanda has done for Corona and Norco, the Greater Corona Valley Chamber of Commerce named Yolanda their Citizen of the Year. Yolanda's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the Inland Empire and especially our community's children. She has been the heart and soul of many community 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 a dear friend of mine, Thomas Opitz. Tom passed away on Saturday, December 29, 2012. A long time resident of Corona, he was a pillar of the community and he will be deeply missed.

Tom was born November 21, 1922, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, the son of Raymond J. and Susan (Singer) Opitz. He served his country honorably in World War II in the United States Army Air Corps from 1944-1946 and received several medals in recognition of his military achievements. He was a member of the Navy League, the Elks and the Confederate Air Force.

Tom worked as a self employed contractor, interior designer and artist of restaurants. Over the years, the Opitz family and the Calvert family have had a close relationship, both personal and professional, and Tom was a great partner and friend. He and his family helped our family build the Corona Bowl, the Encore, Lord Calvert's Jolly Fox and the Jolly Fox Pub & Grille. Millions of Californians have enjoyed a family dinner in restaurants designed by Tom, as he built, designed, and painted over 400.

Tom was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great- grandfather. He is survived by his sons Craig, Thomas, Mark and daughter Christal Trusty; 11 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren. On Monday, January 7, 2013, a memorial service honoring Tom's extraordinary life will be held at Thomas Miller Mortuary in Corona. He will be interred at the Riverside National Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest with his wife of 58 years, Ruth Opitz.

Tom will always be remembered for his devotion to family, caring nature and selfless giving. Tom demonstrated an incredible work ethic, generosity, contributions to the community and love of family. These achievements and qualities are a testament to a life lived well and a legacy that will continue. I extend my condolences to Tom's family and friends. Although Tom may be gone, the light and goodness he brought to the world remain and will never be forgotten.

Madam Speaker, I proudly stand with my good friend and fellow Californian, Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy, in strong support of legislation we have both championed, H.R. 6612, which will redesignate NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center as the Neil A. Armstrong Flight Research Center and the Western Aeronautical Test Range as the Hugh L. Dryden Aeronautical Test Range.

One of the greatest benefits of public service in U.S. House of Representatives is the people that you meet from all walks of life.

I had the very high honor and privilege of meeting Mr. Armstrong on several occasions before he passed away on August 25, 2012.

Given his place as a revered global icon, Neil never sought the limelight and never lost his unassuming nature or the Midwestern values that his Ohio roots instilled in him.

Those of us who were old enough to witness first hand when he took his first step on the surface of the moon will never forget the great sense of pride in our country and inspiration in the ability of mankind.

There are few events in history that have had such a profound and positive impact, transcending generations across the globe.

H.R. 6612 is just one way we can pay tribute to this great American hero.

The bill will accomplish three important goals: (1) to honor Neil A. Armstrong, who served as an experimental research test pilot at the center from 1955 to 1962; (2) to emphasize the contributions of that center to NASA's current space exploration mission; and (3) to memorialize the extraordinary career of Dr. Hugh L. Dryden by naming the aeronautical

test range, approximately 12,000 square miles of special use airspace in his honor.

I urge my House colleagues to support the passage of H.R. 6612.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to southern California and higher education are exceptional. The University of California 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. Chancellor Timothy P. White is one of these individuals. After four years of service to the University of California, Riverside (UCR), he will be leaving the University of California to take a new post as Chancellor of the California State University system.

Chancellor White was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He later immigrated to northern California, and is a first-generation college student who has matriculated within every college system in California. After beginning at Diablo Valley Community College, he earned a Bachelor's Degree from Fresno State University, a Master's from Cal State Hayward (East Bay), and a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology at the University of California, Berkeley. He previously held positions as Professor and Chair of the Department of Human Biodynamics at UC Berkeley, and as Professor and Chair of the Department of Movement Science and research scientist in the Institute of Gerontology at the University of Michigan. White had previously served as Dean, Provost, and Executive Vice President at Oregon State University, and came to UCR from the University of Idaho, where he had been President since August 2004. There he established a strategic direction to further the university's role as the state's land-grant and flagship research university. He is internationally recognized for his work in muscle plasticity, injury, and aging.

One of the many accomplishments during Chancellor White's tenure at UCR was the University's successful receipt of ``preliminary accreditation'' from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, the national accrediting body for educational programs leading to the M.D. degree in U.S. and Canadian medical schools. This was UCR's second attempt to gain accreditation for an independent, four-year medical school. This momentous achievement was made possible due to the tremendous efforts of Chancellor White and the future Dean of the Medical School, Dr. G. Richard Olds, in partnership with local, state and federal officials, as well as community and business leaders. UCR will be able to recruit students for the charter class of 50 medical students, enrolling in August 2013.

UCR has also gained national and international recognition for excellence in research, teaching and service under Chancellor White's tenure. UCR is ranked among the top 200 campuses around the globe in both the Shanghai Jiao Tong Academic Ranking of World Universities and the Times Higher Education rankings, and was recognized for its exceptional commitment to public service by Washington Monthly. Other accomplishments include the creation of a strategic plan to guide the institution, the announcement of the new School of Public Policy, growth of campus enrollment to almost 21,000 students, and new levels of achievement and accomplishment by faculty and students alike. In addition, under Chancellor White's guidance, Riverside was selected to host the new UCPath project, which will consolidate basic human resources operations across the entire UC system as a permanent cost- saving measure.

I have come to know Chancellor White well through many years working together on a variety of educational issues in Riverside. I can personally attest to the Chancellor's incredible work-ethic, professionalism, and positive attitude. He is married to Dr. Karen N. White, who is an Associate of the Chancellor and an assistant clinical Professor for the UCR Biomedical Sciences Program. She has been a great advocate on behalf of our veterans through the Operation Education Scholarship Program, which she founded and established on the UCR campus in 2010. They have four sons.

In light of all Chancellor White has done for the University of California and the Inland Empire, it is only fitting that he be honored as he continues his service to higher education. Chancellor White's tireless passion for public service and higher education has contributed immensely to the betterment of our region and the state 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 moves onto the next phase of his life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Lieutenant Colonel Maren Calvert, who has worked in my office for the past year as a Defense Fellow. Lt. Col. Calvert started in my office last January and she has truly been a pleasure to have on the staff. Her law background coupled with her military experience has benefited the office tremendously. She offers a unique perspective, is always prepared, takes on any task and does it with a smile.

Lt. Col. Calvert is a Category A reservist and came to my office from the 701st Combat Operations Squadron (COS) detachment 1 at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawai'i where she served as the Deputy Commander. The 701 COS operates out of March Air Reserve Base, California which is located in my congressional district. The 701 COS provides trained, experienced Air Operations Center (AOC) warfighters primarily in support of 7th Air Force, the Combined AOC, and Commander of Air Force Forces at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea. In her capacity as Deputy Commander, Lt. Col. Calvert provided expertise within the Operations, Plans and Strategy Divisions on the Law of Armed Conflict and Rules of Engagement. She advised the Commander on all legal issues, including military justice and civil law.

Lt. Col. Calvert was commissioned in 1993 from the Air Force Academy where she graduated with a Bachelors of Science degree in Humanities. She served on active duty through August 1998 and then obtained her law degree from the University of California, Los Angeles before joining the Air Force Reserve. In addition to her 701 COS assignment, Lt. Col. Calvert has served as the Chief of Health Services, 701 COS; Commander, Business Operations & Beneficiary Services, TRICARE, and Resource Management Flights; and as Squadron Section Commander. Lt. Col. Calvert has furthered her Air Force education, having completed the Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College, and the Judge Advocate General Staff Office Course at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama.

As a civilian, Lt. Col. Calvert is a commercial litigation attorney at Alston Hunt Floyd & Ing in Honolulu, HI. Her practice is diversified, with experience in condominium law, real estate development, foreclosures, adversary proceedings in bankruptcy, and an emphasis in health law and health care compliance. She is admitted to both the California and Hawai'i Bar.

During her time in the office she has focused her efforts on defense acquisition, TRICARE, basing issues, wildfire resource issues, Medicaid portability for military members with autistic children, and many other policy areas. She has been an invaluable resource to all my staff and I would also like to take this opportunity to thank her and her family--I know it was not easy to move across an ocean and a country to start a new life. To Jason, Braedon, and Teryn, thank you for supporting your wife and mom, she is an impressive lady. On behalf of everyone in the office, I would like to extend a heartfelt ``Mahalo'' to Lt. Col. Calvert for all her hard work and let her know that my office door is always open for Pau Hana!

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a good friend of mine, Eric Matzner, of Palm Springs, California, who recently passed away. He loved his family, and his country. His story of escaping the Nazis, and then building a successful life in the U.S. is a wonderful story about America. The following was written by his daughter Jill:

It was Austria, 1938. Hitler had terrorized this country and will have killed over six million people before he is through. My father's family is one that has lost many. Just six of his family members ultimately survive. Those wishing to immigrate to the United States from Austria must do so by boat, and only with the vouching of an approved sponsor.

My father's memories as a six year old are vivid; memories of the German storm troopers marching down the street in their trademark ``Goosestep'' fashion. As they stopped, they would raise their right arm, hand straight out and yell ``Heil Hitler.'' Any civilian who did not address authority or Hitler in this way was either beaten or killed. Those who survive must wear yellow arm bands bearing the Star of David to separate the Jews from the rest of the population.

Eric's father owned a jewelry store. Before long, the store was taken from him, forcing his parents to make the biggest decision of their lives. Should they stay, not knowing what lay ahead? Or, should they sacrifice virtually everything they've ever known and flee for the freedom of America? They stayed hidden until they escaped Austria on November 9, 1938. As it turns out, history will remember this night as Kristallnacht, the ``Night of Broken Glass.'' The attack against Jews that evening was swift. Many were killed and thousands incarcerated in concentration camps. Eric vividly remembered the sound of broken glass and the smell of burning buildings. On that night they left Austria behind.

They found themselves on a boat, headed for the country of which they had only heard and dreamed of to start a new life. It was a treacherous trip. Steerage was cramped and miserable. Many people become violently ill throughout the trek across the ocean. They were allowed to take one bag each. Few valuables, possessions or family treasures survived the voyage.

After the long ocean journey, a large figure slowly appeared in the distance: the Statue of Liberty. It was a sight that Eric would remember forever.

As a young man, Eric excelled at baseball and football. He met Elaine Heritage (my mother) at Drexel University in 1951. They dated for a few years and later married. It was a challenge at first with my father being Jewish and my mother being Methodist, but they overcame these differences. Due to my father's childhood experiences, his four children were taught that differences in people are to be embraced, not condemned. It is a wonderful part of our heritage to have been raised with both religions and such diversity.

Eric was an early salesman for TV Guide, and held jobs in advertising in the 1960s. He was an original ``Mad Man!'' His creative selling was legendary, and influenced many young salespeople who are all successful today.

As I think about my father's journey, I believe he was alive because of the foresight of his parents to escape Austria, a strong will to live, modern medicine and the drugs that were available to him. If not for these, I do not believe my father would have lived to be 80 years old and to have been a warm, loving husband to my mother, Elaine, a father to his four children, a grandfather to his five grandchildren and a great grandfather to my son's son.

No one, not even my father, could imagine that he would see the year 2012. Although he was immobile in his final years, he never complained. He lost most of his short term memory, but retained most of his long term memories. With his ever present smile, we smiled with him, when on nearly every day he said, ``I'm telling you, this might be the best day of my life.''