Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to California and the City of Riverside are exceptional. Riverside 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. Mayor Ronald 0. Loveridge is one of these individuals. At a celebration on December 4, 2012, Mayor Loveridge will be honored as he retires after 33 years of service to the Riverside community.

Mayor Loveridge was born and raised in the Bay Area of Northern California. He received his Bachelor's degree from the University of the Pacific and his Master's degree and doctorate in political science from Stanford University. Mayor Loveridge has served in his current office since 1994, and prior to that served on the City Council for 15 years. Not only is he an outstanding public servant, he has taught courses in American Politics, Mass Media, Public Opinion, and Local Leadership in California at the University of California, Riverside since 1965. He is committed to the young people in the Riverside community, introducing them to government through internship projects and field work.

During his 16 years as Mayor, he has played a pivotal role in the political landscape of our community, region and state. He has served and chaired many boards at the community, regional, state, and national levels. The Mayor is currently a member of the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, Inland Empire Scholarship Fund Board of Directors, Habitat for Humanity Riverside Board of Directors, La Sierra University Foundation Board of Directors, and Community Foundation Advisory Council. He represents the Inland region as a member of South Coast Air Quality Management District Board, the Southern California Association of Governments Regional Council, March Joint Powers Authority, the Inland Empire Economic Partnership Board of Directors, and the Southern California Goodwill Board of Directors. Statewide, the Mayor serves on the California Forward Local Government Task Force, California Mayor's Education Roundtable, the League of California Cities Board of Directors, and was a President and member of the California Air Resources Board as well as the past Chair and member of the California Assembly Fellow Program. He currently serves as the second Vice President of the National League of Cities.

The Mayor has received many honors throughout his career in public service. These include: National Association of Regional Councils, Tom Bradley Award for his outstanding leadership and commitment to improving transportation and maintaining the region's preferred quality of life; Boy Scouts of America, California Inland Empire Council, Mt. Rubidoux Division Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award; California Baptist University Spirit of Citizenship Award; American Lung Association in recognition of his efforts to improve the

quality of air in the Inland Empire through passage of a clean vehicle fleet procurement policy; Robert Presley Community Service Award-- Friends of California School for the Deaf, Riverside in recognition for Outstanding and Invaluable Service to the Community; Inland Congregations United for Change Award for his efforts on behalf of youth and his help in organizing a youth task force resulting in a variety of effective youth programs; Toastmasters International Communication and Leadership Award for his contributions to the Business, Professional, and Local Community; Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful for his contribution towards accomplishing the organization's 1996-1997 goals; Neighbors United for Unwavering Commitment in Making Our Neighborhood a Safe and Pleasant Place to Live; California Preservation Foundation in recognition of Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Historic Preservation; and United Way for service and dedication to United Way of the Inland Valleys, among many others.

I have come to know Mayor Loveridge well through many years working together on a variety of public projects in Riverside, and it has been an honor to work with him on behalf of the people of Riverside, California. I can personally attest to the Mayor's incredible work- ethic, professionalism, and positive attitude. He and his wife Marsha have raised two daughters. The Mayor is an avid reader and hiking enthusiast; his favorite hike is up Mount Rubidoux.

In light of all Mayor Loveridge has done for Riverside, it is only fitting that he be honored as he retires from public service. Mayor Loveridge's tireless passion for public service 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 retires and moves onto the next phase of his life.

Mr. Speaker, today we honor seven Members of Congress from California who have honorably served in the United States House of Representatives. The combined experience, knowledge, and expertise of my departing colleagues will be sorely missed.

I have been joined by some of my California Members who will be coming in and out; they may wish to speak and we will be happy to yield to them. But first we have a good friend from North Dakota who is also departing, U.S. Representative Rick Berg, and I will yield to him.

I thank you for your service.

Mr. Speaker, we have a number of people coming shortly, but first I'd like to say some words about the dean of our California delegation, Jerry Lewis.

Jerry was first elected in 1978 to the United States House of Representatives. We're losing a great man with the retirement of a good friend to all of us, and certainly a mentor to me, Jerry Lewis.

From his early days in Congress, Jerry Lewis has worked tirelessly for the good of the Nation and for the well-being of his constituents. Whether it was securing water supplies for southern California, rebuilding our defense programs, supporting the nascent unmanned aerial vehicle, eliminating wasteful spending, or improving the quality of life for thousands of Inland Empire residents, Jerry Lewis has been the definition of a leader and a patriot.

His great depth of knowledge will be sorely missed by the entire House and especially the House Appropriations Committee, where he served as the chairman and ranking member. I know all of us are grateful for Jerry's years of service to our country, and we'll miss his vision, his leadership, his sense of humor, and certainly his intellect.

I congratulate Jerry on his retirement. And while he will be deeply missed in Washington, D.C., he has much to look forward to as he enjoys retired life with his wonderful wife, Arlene, his children, and his grandchildren.

Next I would like to take a moment to say a few words about the former California attorney general, Congressman Dan Lungren. Congressman Lungren was first elected to Congress in 1978, where his legal background was instrumental in his leadership on judiciary, criminal justice, and immigration issues. He was called back to State service in 1989 and successfully ran for attorney general, where he served from 1991 to 1999.

As attorney general, Congressman Lungren helped author, and later defended in court, California's landmark Three Strikes and You're Out law. During his tenure and due to his tough on crime policies, crime plunged 30 percent to historic lows in California.

After a few years in the private sector and the aftermath of September 11, 2001, Congressman Lungren decided to return to Congress and was reelected in 2004. Since his return, Congressman Lungren has used his time and talents as a member of the Judiciary and the Homeland Security Committees.

Throughout his career, Congressman Lungren has been supported by his wonderful wife, Bobbi, and their family.

Thank you, Congressman Lungren. Your contributions to both California and our country will be long remembered. And I know you're very proud of your alma mater, Notre Dame, as they head toward another national championship.

Now I would like to return to California again with David Dreier, who is the current chairman of our California Republican delegation. David was elected as part of the Reagan revolution in 1980. He has remained true to the principles of free markets, free trade, limited government, strong national defense, and personal freedom during his 31 years of service.

Congressman Dreier holds the distinction of being the youngest chairman of the House Rules Committee and the first from California. As chairman of the Rules Committee, Congressman Dreier has been instrumental in restoring regular order to the House, ensuring Members' voices are heard on legislation, and supporting the ideals of civil debate in the House.

Congressman Dreier has also been a leader in reforming Congress to increase transparency, demand accountability, and ensure dignity of the United States House of Representatives.

In 2001, Mr. Dreier was unanimously selected by his California colleagues to chair the State's Republican congressional delegation, where he leads California's House Republicans on critical statewide issues. Congressman Dreier's leadership, especially as chairman of the House Rules Committee, will be sorely missed.

Next is someone I have also worked with for many years. We had worked together to address California water supply issues and reform the Endangered Species Act, Congressman Wally Herger.

Wally has been a tremendous asset to his constituents and certainly to this body. During his time in Congress, Congressman Herger has been a vocal and active supporter of efforts to enhance and improve flood control and water storage infrastructure to meet the public health and safety needs of growing communities in northern California. He's also been a strong supporter of improved forest management to protect communities from catastrophic wildfire and provide local economic development opportunities. Accordingly, he has been a champion of several pieces of commonsense forest health legislation, including the Herger-Feinstein Quincy Library Group Forest Recovery Act of 1998 and the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000.

Congressman Herger was instrumental in the reauthorization expansion of the 1996 welfare reform law. The reauthorization measure enacted in 2006 strengthened the 1996 law to help even more parents on welfare go to work and further strengthened their families.

In the 112th Congress, Congressman Herger was selected chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health and was a leader in fighting the government takeover of health care.

In addition to many accomplishments in Congress, Congressman Herger and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents and grandparents of 9 children and 12 grandchildren. Congressman Herger's spirit, tenacity, intelligence, and leadership have been the hallmark of a distinguished career, and we certainly salute him as he retires.

And I'm now happy to yield to Mr. Herger.

I thank the gentleman. I want you to know how much of a privilege and an honor it has been for me to serve with you for the last 20 years. I'm grateful.

Next, I yield to Dan Lungren, one of our senior Members, a former attorney general from the State of California. I have to point out he is a great fan and alumnus of Notre Dame.

I thank the gentleman. I certainly wish you well, and I know Notre Dame will do very well in the coming days and weeks.

I yield to the gentleman.

I thank the gentleman.

We are going to go out of order for a minute, and I yield to our good friend from Illinois (Mr. Dold).

I thank the gentleman for his service.

Next, I would like to recognize our dean, the dean of the California Republican delegation, Congressman Jerry Lewis.

I certainly thank the gentleman. Not only has he been a great colleague of all of us in California, but a great friend to every one of us. I'd say we'll miss you, but I know we will be seeing you around both in California and here in Washington, D.C.

Next, I would like to introduce the new dean of the California delegation, the incoming dean next year, Dana Rohrabacher from Orange County, California.

I thank you, Mr. Rohrabacher, and I look forward to serving with you for a long time in the future. God bless.

Elton Gallegly was brought up, and I'd like to say something about Elton. Elton and I are close friends. We've spent a lot of time together in the automobile going back and forth to the

airport. I don't know what I'm going to do now that Elton is retiring. Elton is a person who is universally admired for his fighting spirit and tenacity. He is someone who will fight to the end for the things that he believes in. I've had the honor of working with Congressman Gallegly on a number of issues, including E-Verify, invasive species issues, and regional water projects. Congressman Gallegly holds the distinction as the only Member of Congress, by the way--and this is an important thing if you're a Member--who can get from the Capitol to Dulles Airport in 30 minutes or less. I think he holds the record.

From the start, Congressman Gallegly has been a leader on immigration issues, most recently as the chairman of the Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on Immigration Policy and Enforcement. He understands the nuances of our legal immigration system and the vital importance of secure borders, especially as it relates to his role as vice chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee. Congressman Gallegly brought a unique perspective to the Foreign Affairs Committee, having served 8 years on the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and its Terrorism, Human Intelligence, Analysis and Counterintelligence Subcommittee.

In the aftermath of September 11, Congressman Gallegly chaired the Subcommittee on International Terrorism, Nonproliferation and Human Rights and held one of the first hearings on the 9/11 Commission's recommendations, a hearing that led to more than 10 provisions that were included in the final bill.

Congressman Gallegly's long and distinguished career has been supported by the love and support of his wife, Janice, and their four children and ten grandchildren. Congressman Gallegly's dedication to our national security, strong borders, and legal immigration has contributed immensely to the betterment of our Nation, and we certainly thank him for all the years of his service.

Next I want to talk about my friend, Brian Bilbray. Working alongside Congressman Gallegly on immigration issues is Congressman Bilbray, the chairman of the House Immigration Reform Caucus. Anyone who knows Congressman Bilbray knows his commitment and dedication to his constituents. He is always on the go, never misses an opportunity to meet and discuss issues important to those he represents.

Congressman Bilbray is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, with subcommittee appointments to the Oversight and Investigations, Communications, Technology and the Internet, and Energy and Environment. He is chairman of the House Immigration Reform Caucus, where he works with Members on both sides of the aisle to enact meaningful immigration reform.

In this Congress, Congressman Bilbray was a leader on policy initiatives that would incentivize companies to return their businesses to the United States, as well as encourage the private sector to hire veterans. I personally worked with him on a number of issues, including making E-Verify mandatory.

Throughout his career, Congressman Bilbray has been supported by his wonderful wife, Karen, their five children and seven grandchildren. It's been an honor to serve with Congressman Bilbray, and I would like to extend my gratitude to his many years of dedicated service. We're great friends and will continue to be so.

Our final departing Member is someone, as all of these Members, someone I have known very closely and consider a very close personal friend and whose leadership will be sorely missed, Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack, California's only Republican woman in the United States House of Representatives. She's been a trailblazer in the House.

Congresswoman Bono Mack's selection as subcommittee chairman of Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade for the 112th Congress was historic, making her the first Republican woman in American history to hold a gavel on the Energy and Commerce Committee, one of the oldest standing committees in the United States House of Representatives. As chairman, Congresswoman Bono Mack has become a national leader on privacy issues, an expert on technology matters, and a global champion of Internet freedom.

In addition to her impressive chairmanship, Congresswoman Bono Mack passed landmark legislation that called for country-of-origin labeling for fresh fruits and vegetables, in addition to several innovative energy-saving bills, rewarding companies for utilizing clean-burning fuel technologies, and increasing the energy efficiency of Federal buildings. The House of Representatives also overwhelmingly passed Mary Bono Mack's SPY ACT, which helps to protect Americans' personal information on the Internet.

Congresswoman Bono Mack is married to fellow Congressman Connie Mack, has two children, three stepchildren, and is now a new grandmother. All of us will certainly deeply miss Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack's humor, intellect, compassion, and expertise; and I know we'll see her in town.

On a personal note, I remember shortly after Sonny was killed a number of years ago visiting her along with Congressman Jerry Lewis. It was a very difficult time, but she stood in the breach and came in, as Dana mentioned, under very tragic circumstances but represented her beloved Coachella Valley in a wonderful way and has been a fantastic member of the California delegation. Again, we will sorely miss her service.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to mention that among the seven departing Members, the House is losing 163 years of experience. The careers of my colleagues have had a positive impact on hundreds of thousands of constituents, Californians and Americans.

Due to schedule changes, not everyone could be here, but I'm sure as we go through the remainder of this session, they will find an opportunity to say their farewells to the House.

With that, I thank you, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Barbara Carmichael who passed away on October 17, 2012. Barbara was a pillar of the community in Norco, California and she will be deeply missed.

Barbara Carmichael moved to Norco in 1980 and served three terms on the Norco City Council starting in November 1990. She was mayor in 1992 and 1998, and left the council in 2003. In order to be closer to family, she moved to the small town of Manton in Northern California in 2005. During her time there, Barbara became active in local organizations and sat on the Manton Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees last year.

Barbara also was a 4-H leader for 22 years, honorary Future Farmers of America chapter farmer, a Norco Chamber of Commerce Fair Committee member for 10 years, Corona Regional Hospital Foundation Board member, a Riverside City College advisory board member, and was active in many other community groups. According to Norco Mayor Kevin Bash, Barbara was instrumental in securing national historical status for the former Norconian hotel and was involved in the initial planning stages of the Silverlakes equestrian and sports park. The way in which Barbara lived her life should serve as reminder to others that the power of an individual with drive, perseverance and a stellar work ethic can do great things.

Barbara is survived by daughters Bree Zimmerman and Brittney Mailhes, and five grandchildren.

On Sunday, November 18, 2012, a memorial service celebrating Barbara's extraordinary life will be held. Barbara will always be remembered for her contributions to the community, work ethic, generosity, and love of family. Her dedication to her work, family and community are a testament to a life lived well and a legacy that will continue. I extend my condolences to Barbara's family and friends; although Barbara may be gone, the light and goodness she brought to the world remains and will never be forgotten.

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 due to internment in WWII Japanese-American relocation camps.

A recognition ceremony was held on November 7, 2012, for the following individuals who received their high school diplomas through Operation Recognition:

Edward A. Alfaro; Anthony John Amoroso; Edward Barr; Leroy Burbidge; Justino Castillo; Harry J. Dillon; James N. Ellis; James Albert Finch; Irving G. Fowler; Robert Ray Gooch, Jr.; Herb Levine; Donald George Marion; Marvin Odell Pace; Anastacia P. Panarites; Thomas James Plouffe; Michael Loren Rittenhouse; Robert Rodriguez; Edward L. Ryan; Robert Irwin Stover; Glenn C. Waggoner Jr.; Robert Lee Williamson; James Verne Olson; and Thomas Eugene Butler.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Rosemary Bourns, who passed away on Wednesday, September 26, 2012. Rosemary was a pillar of the community in Riverside, California and she will be deeply missed.

In 1947, Rosemary and her newlywed husband Marlan moved to California from Michigan, and they began their electronics components manufacturing company in humble settings--the garage of their new home in Pasadena. While Marlan took care of the engineering side of the business, Rosemary oversaw the books and made sure that their house could accommodate the seven engineers working with her husband. The couple eventually moved the company, now renamed Bourns, Inc., to Riverside in 1950 to boost manufacturing operations in order to keep up with rising demand.

In her free time, Rosemary loved telling stories and arranging flowers. She and her husband always accomplished things as a team, from starting their business to moving it to Riverside. They also selflessly gave back to their community. In 1992, the Bourns family gave the University of California, Riverside (UCR) the single-largest donation it had received to that date, a $6 million gift for its new College of Engineering, eventually named Bourns College in the family's honor. In the years that followed, they continued to support the College, and the west engineering building was named Bourns Hall.

The way in which Rosemary lived her life should serve as reminder to others that an individual with drive, perseverance and a stellar work ethic can do great things. In 2000, Rosemary and her husband were recognized as UCR Laureates, and in 2010 the family was honored by the Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship with its Lifetime Award. University of California, Riverside Chancellor Timothy P. White said of Rosemary, ``On the UCR campus, Rosemary Bourns' name has been synonymous with the accomplishments of strong, hardworking women . . . She will always be honored through the accomplishments of the faculty and students in the Bourns College of Engineering.''

In addition to her husband, Rosemary is survived by her son Gordon; daughters Linda Hill, Anita Macbeth and Denise Moyles; 14 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Rosemary will always be remembered for her incredible contributions to business, her work ethic, generosity, and love of family. Her dedication to her work, family and community is a testament to a life lived well and a legacy that will continue. I extend my condolences to Rosemary's family and friends; although Rosemary 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 the community of Riverside County are exceptional. Southwest Riverside 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. Ken Rivers is one of these individuals. On September 27, 2012, Ken will be honored as the ``Citizen of the Year'' at the Boy Scouts of America--Tahquitz District Distinguished Citizens Dinner.

Ken's background encompasses over 25 years of executive healthcare administration. While earning his master's degrees at the University of La Verne, he became a chief operating officer of a Southern California hospital at the young age of 23.

Prior to joining Southwest Healthcare hospitals, he served as the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director at the Corona Regional Medical Center in my hometown of Corona. He joined Southwest Healthcare System in 2009, where he has served as the Chief Executive Officer/ Managing Director. Southwest Healthcare System operates Inland Valley Medical Center in Wildomar and Rancho Springs Medical Center in Murrieta and Temecula Valley Day Surgery in Murrieta. Just recently, he joined CHA Health System in Los Angeles which will allow him to further his career at the international level of healthcare.

Ken's accomplishments at Southwest Healthcare System have reflected his attitude of treating patients like family. Along with a dedicated leadership team, physicians and the entire hospital staff, Ken directed the opening of the $91 million expansions to both hospitals which include new emergency departments featuring more than 70 bays, expanded the Intensive Care Unit at Inland Valley by doubling bed capacity, and the largest Women's Center in the entire region located at Rancho Springs. His leadership was instrumental in passing one of the largest state and federal surveys. He is currently developing the region's first Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Rancho Springs and Cardiac Services at Inland Valley.

It is hard to imagine that Ken would have any free time on his hands yet he always found time for his community. A Paul Harris Fellow and Rotarian, Ken serves with many philanthropic and healthcare organizations including Chairman for the Riverside County Chapter of the American Red Cross. He also enjoys spending time with his two children, traveling, and playing golf.

In light of all Ken has done for Southwest Riverside County, the Boy Scouts of America--Tahquitz District named Ken their Citizen of the Year. Ken's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of the Inland Empire. He has been the heart and soul of many community 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 in support, obviously, of H.R. 6365, the National Security and Job Protection Act.

Do we need any more evidence than recent events in Egypt and Libya to oppose these devastating cuts and what it would do to our Nation security? I don't think so.

If sequestration occurs, it would cut the military to its smallest size since before World War II. All the while, we're still a Nation at war in Afghanistan, facing unrest and aggression in the Middle East, increased threats from Iran, China, and North Korea.

In addition to the 10 percent cut to defense, our domestic programs would have, such as health, science, research, education, border security, an additional 8 percent cut.

In May, this House passed the only plan that's been presented thus far to prevent and replace sequestration, last May, by providing and making commonsense reforms to our fast-growing government that's on auto pilot spending programs and to avert the spending-driven economic crisis that's before us.

Well, we've seen no signs of leadership from the White House or the Senate. But the House will act again today with H.R. 6365, the National Security and Job Protection Act. The House will lead, where others have not.

This legislation sends a clear statement that the House is ready to carry out our budgetary responsibilities. We just need willing partners. The President, the Senate, House Republicans and Democrats, we all agree on a common goal: replace the sequester to protect important domestic programs, our fragile economy, our national security and our troops.

This bill is a path to that solution. Make no mistake, if sequestration goes into effect, America will compromise a legacy of superiority on the land, on the sea, and in the air and potentially send our economy spiraling back into a recession.

I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this bill, and I would hope that we could pass this with a large number and get on with it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Chairman Lamar Smith and S. 3245 which reauthorizes the E-Verify program for an additional three years.

First, I would like to thank Chairman Smith for his leadership and support of the E-Verify program. The Chairman has steadfastly supported E-Verify, helped expand the program and provided for several reauthorizations. I commend his leadership and value his hard work on E-Verify and immigration issues.

S. 3245 provides for a simple three year reauthorization of the popular E-Verify program. In 1996, when I first wrote the legislation that created the E-Verify pilot program, I had humble expectations. Now, 16 years after its inception it has 399,538 employers participating at 1.2 million employer sites. So far in FY 2012, there have been more than 19.6 million queries run through the system. Congress and the entire Federal Government is required to use the system and several states have made use of the program mandatory for their employers.

E-Verify continues to defy expectations: it is 99.5 percent accurate, free to employers and easy to use. It continues to develop new ways to combat illegal employment such as Photo Tool, Self Lock, and Fraud Alert.

The next step, which Chairman Smith, Subcommittee Chairman Gallegly and I have been working on, is to make E-Verify mandatory for all employers in the U.S. With unemployment stuck above 8 percent for the 43rd consecutive month, it is time we ensure that American jobs are going to American workers and those legally authorized to work in the U.S. I am hopeful that the House will consider H.R. 2885 before the end of the year; the only way to truly gain control of our borders is to end the jobs magnet that brings people here illegally.

In the meantime, it is necessary that we reauthorize E-Verify for an additional three years and again, I commend Chairman Smith and look forward to working with him on our efforts to make E-Verify mandatory.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual from the 44th Congressional District of California who has dedicated his life to defending the people of this country and preserving the basic freedoms and liberties that we hold dear. I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Chief Master Sergeant Patrick J. Wood for his 26 years of dedicated service in the United States Air Force.

Chief Wood enlisted in the Air Force on June 26, 1986 after graduating from Divine Child High School in Dearborn, Michigan. After graduating from basic military training he was assigned to the 29th Mobile Aerial Port Squadron, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan as a Load Planner. In September of 1990, then-Staff Sergeant Wood joined Air Force Reserve Recruiting and was again assigned to Selfridge. While there, he was recognized as ``Rookie of the Year'' for the Recruiting Service, an honor given to the recruiter who enlists the most airmen during their first recruiting year.

This was the first of many recruiting awards Chief Wood would receive. His other accomplishments include numerous ``Two Per Week'' awards, ``Top Fifty'' recognition for 6 years, Top Senior Recruiter, and five consecutive ``Goal Excellence Awards'' for his operating locations. Chief Wood was also a distinguished graduate from the Non- Commissioned Officer Academy and Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy. In Recruiting Year 2011, his squadron enlisted more than 2,600 citizen airmen to become the ``Top Recruiting Squadron'' for that year.

As a result of his achievements, Chief Wood was eventually chosen to be the Superintendent of the largest squadron in Reserve Recruiting. During his 23 years in recruiting, Chief Wood was responsible for enlisting over 8,000 new citizen airmen. Chief Wood's innovative ideas and leadership positions allowed him to influence recruiter training practices to ensure that the Air Force Reserve Command met or exceeded goals for 12 consecutive years.

Most recently, Chief Wood has served as the Superintendent, Western Recruiting Squadron, Air Force Reserve Recruiting Service, March Air Reserve Base, California--the most senior ranking noncommissioned officer in the western region. In this role, he has been responsible for the oversight of recruiter production as well as the welfare of over 100 personnel across 17 states, one U.S. territory, and in three countries.

Chief Wood could not have been such a tremendous leader without the love and unfailing support of his wife Major Mia Wood (Retired), and his daughters Airman First Class Lauren Wood and Ashley Wood. Helping to build the foundation for success early in life were his father Alfred, a United States Marine Corps Veteran from the Korean War, and his mother Anna.

Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in expressing our sincere appreciation to Chief Master Sergeant Patrick J. Wood for his outstanding service to both the United States Air Force and our great Nation. Chief Wood will retire from the United States Air Force service with more than just his experience, decorated career and remarkable accomplishments. He will also have served as a shining example and constant reminder of what it means to be an American patriot and leader. I am grateful for his service and salute him as he retires from the United States Air Force.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a dear friend of mine, Laura Froehlich. Laura passed away on Wednesday, August 1, 2012. As a pillar of the Moreno Valley and Riverside County military communities, her sudden passing was a shock to all and she will be dearly missed.

Laura served honorably in the Air Force and began volunteering in 1985 through the Moreno Valley Military Affairs Committee, which she eventually chaired. March Air Reserve Base (MARB) was and still is heavily used by Marines from nearby Twentynine Palms and Camp Pendleton bases. As increasing numbers of troops began to flow through the MARB facilities in the buildup to Operation Iraqi Freedom, Laura wanted to ensure that the troops leaving and returning from war received a timely farewell and warm welcome, a far cry from the public indifference and occasional contempt experienced by veterans returning from Vietnam, such as her father. She had organized a similar effort during the Persian Gulf War of 1991.

With the help of her team of more than 100 volunteers, she transformed MARB's austere Hangar 385 into a welcoming center where troops could relax and enjoy good food and entertainment during their 6-8-day layovers. Her motto was, ``When they come to March, they're taken care of.''

Laura, fondly known as the ``Flag Mama'' because of her patriotic attire, made it a point to be present for the arrival and departure of virtually every MARB flight carrying troops to and from the Central Command Area of Responsibility. She even purchased a motor home to park in the lot near the hangar so she could go quickly between home and the base. At the end of 2008, Laura had individually greeted more than 200,000 men and women on 4,000 flights. When the troops saw ``Miss Laura'' at the base to shake their hands and give them a hug, it was how they knew they were home.

Regardless of the recognition she received, Laura remained humble and modest. Upon returning home to California from the Pentagon

in Washington, DC after accepting the Spirit of Hope Award in 2009, she remarked:

I keep getting thanked for something I shouldn't be getting

thanked for . . . What I and my awesome group of volunteers

do, we do it because it's the right thing to do. The men and

women who put their life on the line every day for my

freedom, for my grandkids to play safe in my backyard,

they're the ones that deserve to be thanked.

It is hard to imagine that Laura had any free time in addition to her tireless work at MARB yet she always found time to serve the community in other ways. She worked with many aid agencies including the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Salvation Army, and was the longtime coordinator of Moreno Valley's Fourth of July Parade, the ``Trees for Troops'' campaign, and the Annual Family Day picnic at March Air Reserve Base for all the military services, including 500 Navy Reservists who drill at Navy Operational Support Center Moreno Valley.

Laura is survived by her husband Larry, daughter Laurice (Don) Souron, and two granddaughters, Laural Hite and Taylor Hite.

Laura will always be remembered for her incredible work ethic, generosity, contributions to the community and love of family. Her dedication to our men and women in uniform, family, and community is a testament to a life lived well and a legacy that will continue. I extend my condolences to Laura's family and friends; although Laura 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 a hero from La Verne, California, Private First Class (PFC) Jose Oscar Belmontes, United States Army. Today I ask that the House of Representatives join me to honor and remember this incredible young man who died in service of our country.

PFC Belmontes was born in Riverside, California in 1984. He graduated from Polytechnic High School in 2002 and joined the Army in February 2011. After training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, he arrived at Fort Drum in July 2011. He was serving as a construction engineer with the 630th Engineer Company, 7th Engineer Battalion, 10th Sustainment Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, which deployed to Afghanistan later that month. He died of injuries sustained from small arms fire in Wardak Province, Afghanistan on July 28, 2012 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. PFC Belmontes was 28 years old.

PFC Belmontes' fellow servicemen and women fondly remember him for his positive attitude; Belmontes was known for stepping up to the plate and helping out whenever he was needed. PFC Belmontes accomplished so much during his short time and he will be dearly missed by his unit and all who knew him. PFC Belmontes served honorably, earning many awards and decorations including the Purple Heart, the Army Achievement Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with one star, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon and the Combat Action Badge. He is survived by his wife, mother, and father.

As we look at the incredibly rich military history of our country we realize that this history is comprised of men, just like PFC Belmontes, 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 day the Belmontes family learned of their husband and son's death was probably the hardest day they have ever faced and our thoughts, prayers and deepest gratitude for their sacrifice go out to them. There are no words that can relieve their pain and what words we can offer only begin to convey our deep respect and highest appreciation.

PFC Belmontes' family have all given a part of themselves in the loss of their loved one and we hope they know that the goodness he brought to this world and the sacrifice he has made, will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a dear friend of mine, Harry Eisen. Harry passed away on Thursday, July 19, 2012 in Norco, California. A Holocaust survivor and longtime businessman in Norco, he was a pillar of the community and will be deeply missed.

Harry was born in May 1917 in Izbica Kujawska, Poland, the son of Yechezkel and Mindel Eisen. His entrepreneurial spirit emerged at the age of 15, when he and a partner ran a meat production plant in Warsaw. He was conscripted as an officer in the Polish cavalry in September 1939 and served honorably as an officer, but was captured by the Nazis in World War II. He worked in a labor camp coal mine before his transfer to the Auschwitz death camp in 1942.

Harry's experiences as a prisoner at Auschwitz were nothing short of horrifying. Harry and his wife Hilda, a Jewish classmate hailing from the same village in Poland, seldom spoke of their imprisonment, but following the opening of the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. and the growing number of Holocaust deniers, they felt it was their duty to tell their story. Harry described the Holocaust as ``going through hell.'' Every day he saw men, women and children die of starvation and other atrocities committed by Nazi soldiers, and he marched with other prisoners through the woods with rags instead of shoes. Thankfully, he managed to escape as Nazis set fire to the camp in 1944, but not without a reminder of his time there: a tattoo of his prisoner number on his left arm.

After fleeing to the United States in 1948, the Eisens established themselves in Los Angeles despite being penniless and unable to speak English. Harry began working in a butcher shop to save money and purchased his first 100 chickens in Arcadia. He was often seen riding his bicycle around the city selling eggs. Eventually he outgrew the facility in Los Angeles and moved his wife and four children to Norco to establish Norco Egg Ranch, employing over 400 people and owning millions of chickens. It eventually became a major supplier of eggs in North America. Harry sold his business in 2000 to Land-o-Lakes, but continued to work as a consultant while managing his properties in California, Arizona, and Nevada.

According to his daughter Mary Cramer, Harry often said, ``There is no place like America.'' His strength in the face of adversity and his modesty serve as an inspiration to those who believe in the value of hard work and determination. Harry's incredible success from humble beginnings and overcoming the horrors of Nazi occupation is the personification of the American Dream. Harry is survived by his wife of over 60 years Hilda, four children, and eight grandchildren.

Harry 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 is a testament to a life lived well and a legacy that will continue. I extend my condolences to Harry's family and friends; although Harry may be gone, the light and goodness he brought to the world remain and will never be forgotten.

Mr. Chair, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the 2013 Defense appropriations bill.

First, I want to thank my chairman and friend, Chairman Young, and my friend, Ranking Member Dicks, for their hard work, and their staffs, both the majority and the minority, for an

extremely thoughtful and balanced bill.

In crafting this bill, the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee held countless hearings and ensured that strong congressional oversight was alive and well. It's been an honor to serve on the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, and I can attest to the hard work that's gone into this bill.

Our Nation's first priority is the protection of our citizens and our national interests around the world. This bill fulfills that duty. The FY13 Defense appropriations bill also fulfills a promise to our U.S. servicemembers that they will continue to receive the best training, equipment, and health care. Likewise, the bill fulfills needed requirements to ensure that our commanders have the tools they need to accomplish U.S. missions around the world and support America's defense industrial base.

I understand that many Members may have objections to the overall funding level of the defense bill, and there's no doubt that every aspect of government, including defense, must come under close fiscal scrutiny. However, the short-term benefits of decimating defense will only leave us in a more economically precarious position in the future. This bill properly balances the need to make responsible cuts while ensuring that America maintains its military superiority.

On a personal basis, I want to thank some friends that are leaving the committee, Jerry Lewis and Norm Dicks, for their many years of service. Not only are they colleagues, but they're good friends, and we're going to miss their service here in this institution. So I thank you for all your hard work.

Lastly, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a good friend of mine, Frank Hall. Frank passed away June 15, 2012 in Norco, CA. A resident of Norco, CA, for 35 years, he was a pillar of the community and he will be deeply missed.

Frank was born March 2, 1938 in Los Angeles. He grew up in Newport Beach, graduating from Newport Harbor High School and Orange Coast College, with additional studies at Pacific State University and Riverside Community College. As a youth, he worked for his uncle renting boats. Frank served the County of Orange from 1959 to 1995 in the General Services and Environmental Management agencies in the field of Right-of-Way Engineering, Property Management and Facilities Planning, and served honorably in the United States Naval Air Reserve as flight crew on anti-submarine aircraft from 1961 to 1969.

After retiring from the County of Orange, he became involved with Norco city government, serving as a City Councilman for 12 years and Mayor for 8 years. Frank was a visionary in Norco; he maintained the community's rural spirit while encouraging commercial and business development in the Inland region. As a Councilman, he held several appointed positions, including Riverside Transit Agency, RTA, where he was Chairman in 2007; Riverside County Transportation Commission, RCTC, Commissioner; Western Riverside Council of Governments where he was Chairman in 2001-2; Member of the Military Affairs Committee for the Norco-Corona Area, which was successful in retaining the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Norco; and Member of the City of Norco Economic Development Advisory Council, among many others. At the time of his death, he had been appointed by Supervisor John Tavaglione as an additional alternate to Riverside Transit Agency and the RTA Transportation-NOW coalition.

It is hard to imagine that Frank would have any free time on his hands yet he always found time for his community. He was a member of many local and regional organizations, including the Citizens Advisory Group at the Norco College, the Death Valley 49er's Association, the Pacific Crest Trail Association, the Norco High School Agricultural Advisory Committee, and the California State Parks Foundation. He was active in the Corona-Norco YMCA and was President at the time of his death. Local clubs he belonged to were Norco Lions Club, Residents of Norco Urging Protection of Rural and Animal Keeping Lifestyle, RURAL, American Legion Post 328, Norco Historical Society, Norco Regional Conservancy, Saddle Sore Riders, Riverside Recreational Trails, and Norco Senior Citizens and Pet Relief Fund. A longtime horse lover, Frank belonged to a number of equestrian sports organizations. He was a life member of Equestrian Trails, Inc., the California Horseman's Association, and the Norco Horseman's Association, which he founded and served in for 18 years as President in 1991 and Treasurer from 1992 to 2012.

Frank is survived by his wife of 37 years Sharon; son Steve (Brenda) Hall, son William (Kate) Hall, and son Robert (Robin) Hall; six granddaughters, Kristin Hicks, Ashley Hall, Heather Hall, Holly Hall, Vanessa Hall and Lauren Hall, as well as two great-granddaughters Joie Lynn and Abbylynn. Frank is also survived by brother Howard (Kathleen) Hall.

On Friday, June 22, 2012, a memorial service celebrating Frank's extraordinary life will be held. Frank 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 Frank's family and friends; although Frank 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 an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Orange County, California are exceptional. Orange County 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. John Schatz is one of these individuals. On Friday, June 29, 2012, Schatz will end his tenure as the General Manager of the Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) after 35 years of service to the community.

Schatz graduated from the University of Redlands with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and received a Juris Doctor from Western State University College of Law in Fullerton in 1989. In 1998 Schatz was appointed by the State Legislature to the Commission on Local Governance for the 21st Century. From 2000 to 2004, he served as an instructor on ``Water Policy in Southern California'' at the University of California at Irvine. He was also a member of Association of California Water Agency's State Legislative Committee for several years.

Prior to becoming General Manager of Santa Margarita Water District, Schatz was the General Manager of Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) in western Riverside County from 1984 to 1994. Before joining JCSD, he worked in a variety of positions, including Administrative Manager, for the Rancho California Water District in Temecula from 1977 to 1984.

At SMWD, Schatz established a culture of efficiency. Among his accomplishments were doubling the number of connections while reducing staffing from 163 to 122 employees by emphasizing cross-training and expanding the use of technology. During his tenure, Schatz helped keep SMWD's services affordable by holding the line on rate increases while finding cost-saving solutions. In the last 15 years, the District has raised rates only twice and decreased its rates six times. It has reaped an additional $1 million in annual revenues and saved ratepayers $6.9 million. Under Mr. Schatz's leadership, SMWD recently partnered with four other water agencies to complete the $54 million Upper Chiquita Reservoir, creating the largest domestic water reservoir built in south Orange County in 45 years while helping to preserve the county's open space.

In light of all John Schatz has done for the community of Orange County, it is only fitting that he be honored for his many years of dedicated service. John Schatz's tireless passion for conservation and public service has contributed immensely to the betterment of our community 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 retires.