Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Dr. Mike Jenkins of Kilgore, Texas, whose passing is deeply felt across the Kilgore College community and throughout East Texas.

Dr. Jenkins faithfully served Kilgore College for 35 years and most recently held the role of Executive Vice President of Internal Collaboration and Strategic Initiatives. Throughout his long career, he impacted countless students, educators, and staff members with a positive, encouraging spirit and a deep commitment to the mission of education.

Those who worked alongside Dr. Jenkins consistently describe him as a leader who used his influence for good, offered grace and guidance to others, and created a culture of care, kindness, and support. He was known as a mentor, a trusted colleague, and a steady presence who lifted people up and made them feel valued, regardless of title or circumstance.

As Interim President, Dr. Staci Martin shared, Dr. Jenkins truly had a servant's heart and will be greatly missed. I join the Kilgore College family and the broader East Texas community in offering condolences to his loved ones and honoring a life devoted to service, faith, and education.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Longview, Texas native Haynes King, on being named the Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year and ACC Offensive Player of the Year. These honors reflect an outstanding season and place him among the top players in one of college football's premier conferences.

Haynes King attended Longview High School, where he played for the Longview Lobos under his father, John King, who has served as head coach since 2004. As a junior in 2018, Haynes led Longview to its first state championship in 81 years, an achievement that brought a proud East Texas community together and remains a defining moment in Longview football history.

Longview football is known for toughness, discipline, and accountability. Those values shaped Haynes King early and followed him to

Georgia Tech, where he earned conference-wide recognition for his leadership, resilience, and performance under pressure.

His journey from Longview to the collegiate stage reflects the strength of East Texas families, coaches, and communities. Longview is proud of Haynes King, and I commend him, his family, and his coaches on this well-earned achievement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the cities of Texarkana, Texas, and Arkansas, recently designated as a Military Friendly Community.

This is a proud moment for Texarkana, on both sides of the state line. I want to congratulate the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce, the cities of Texarkana in Arkansas and Texas, and community partners on this meaningful recognition.

This recognition reflects the deep values of East Texas. For generations, Texarkana has been shaped by the service and sacrifice of the men and women serving our country. Our community has long understood that supporting our military means creating real opportunities, strong partnerships, and a welcoming environment for service members, veterans, and their families.

I am especially proud of the Chamber's leadership in leading this effort and bringing together businesses, employers, and organizations that recognize the skills and leadership our military community brings to the workforce.

Texarkana continues to set an example of what a supportive military community looks like. I am grateful for the commitment to duty and honor that leads our community.

I congratulate them on this important accomplishment. Together, we will continue to stand united in support of those who have served and those who continue to serve our great Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Danville Farms in Kilgore, which enters its final season this month after 40 years as one of East Texas's most cherished Christmas traditions.

For four decades, James and Mary Robinson welcomed families from across our region to their farm in the Piney Woods, offering not just Christmas trees, but an experience rooted in faith, family, hard work, and hospitality. Generations of East Texans built traditions at Danville Farms, walking the fields together, cutting their own trees, riding the tractor, warming up by the fire, and sharing hot chocolate on cold December days. Many families speak of returning year after year, first with their children and later with their grandchildren, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Many of my own staff, who grew up in this part of Texas, fondly recall their childhood trips to Danville Farms. For them, and for thousands of others across East Texas, the Christmas season simply was not complete without that annual visit.

The Robinson family created something truly special. They built a place where relationships mattered, where visitors were treated like family, and where the joy of the Christmas season was shared generously with all who came through the gates. As they step away from the business, we honor not only their dedication, but the countless moments of joy, reflection, and togetherness they provided to our community.

Danville Farms may close its gates, but its legacy will live on in the families it served and in the memories that continue to be passed down from one generation to the next across East Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Marcus Stadelmann of UT Tyler.

Since 1990, Dr. Stadelmann has been leading the Tyler community. During his 35 years of service, he has prepared countless students for their careers and worked tirelessly to support UT Tyler.

His dedication and passion have been at the cornerstone of the Political Science Department. Dr. Stadelmann invests in each of his students, ensuring they are prepared for success no matter what the next chapter brings for them. He has instilled a lifelong love of learning and discovery.

His influence extends far beyond the classroom. His leadership, innovative research, and work across the university have left a lasting mark on the institution. As a professor, he has fostered an incredible classroom environment, bringing new ideas to light for his students. Although he challenges his students, the approach allows them to flourish.

The Tyler community will miss his daily presence and the spirit he brought to the faculty, staff, and to the classroom.

I congratulate Dr. Stadelmann on his well-earned retirement. I congratulate him on building a strong legacy. I am grateful for the robust programs he has built and the strong communities he created. May he please accept my best wishes on a retirement filled with joy and new adventures. The Tyler community looks forward to Dr. Stadelmann remaining a valued part of the community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Tax Court Improvement Act. This taxpayer-friendly bill significantly improves the critical Tax Court process available to Americans who find themselves in a dispute with the IRS.

Mr. Speaker, I thank specifically Representative Terri Sewell, who joined me in coauthoring this bill, for recognizing that taxpayers deserve a court process that is clear, timely, efficient, and just. Her work on this bill reflects our joint commitment to the people we serve.

For too long, the Tax Court has operated under preexisting rules that do not mirror many of the well-established procedures for other courts and rules that are antiquated in their application.

In short, changes need to be made so that the Tax Court process works better for the people that it serves. When a system is slow or confusing, the burden falls on taxpayers, often at moments when they are already under stress. This bill provides practical updates that help the court do its job more effectively, and it helps taxpayers find resolution more easily and quickly.

First, this bill modernizes the court's subpoena rules. Today, if someone is subpoenaed to produce documents before the Tax Court, they must show up in person. This wastes time, adds expense, and clogs an already full docket. Other Article I and Article III courts already allow documents to be submitted, at times, without requiring physical appearance. This bill, likewise, gives the Tax Court the same commonsense flexibility, allowing judges to decide when someone truly needs to appear in person.

Second, the bill helps the court address its growing case backlog. It does this by allowing special trial judges, who are experienced legal professionals who already handle much of the court's work, to take on additional responsibilities with the consent of the taxpayer. If the taxpayer agrees, these special trial judges can hear certain additional matters, issue final decisions in specific cases, and use limited contempt authority to maintain order. This is similar to how magistrate judges currently assist Federal district court judges to streamline their dockets when consent of the parties exists. The result is simple: faster resolution for taxpayers without sacrificing expertise on the bench, fairness in the process, or integrity in the result.

Third, the bill strengthens public trust by creating clear ethical standards for Tax Court judges. Article III judges already have statutory recusal rules. Currently, Tax Court judges do not. Codifying disqualification requirements ensures that taxpayers know that their case will be heard by a judge who is impartial and above reproach. This change helps to take away any indicia of impropriety in the process, again giving weight to the soundness of the final judgment.

Finally, this legislation clarifies the court's authority to use equitable tolling in deficiency cases. Today, if a taxpayer misses a filing deadline, even due to illness, natural disaster, or being given incorrect information, the court often has no ability to offer relief to that taxpayer. Cases can be dismissed before the merits are even heard, putting taxpayers at risk for losing their claim when they are not at fault for missing the deadline. That is not a just result. This bill ensures the court can make determinations based on the substance of claims, not just procedural technicalities, especially when a taxpayer is acting in good faith.

Taken together, these reforms make the Tax Court more efficient, responsive, and just for the American taxpayer. They reflect these values that guide our work in this Chamber: strong institutions, fair treatment for taxpayers, and renewed trust in our government processes.

This is a measured, practical bill that passed unanimously in committee, and it deserves the support of this House on both sides of the aisle.

I urge my colleagues to vote for the Tax Court Improvement Act to help strengthen a court process that plays a vital role in protecting our taxpayers' rights and ensuring accountability of the IRS within our tax system.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kilgore's Daughters of the American Revolution.

250 years ago, brave warriors fought for a republic founded on freedom and liberty. How remarkable is it that each of them came from individuals and families who fought for the country we call home today.

The mission their ancestors started is not over. For 135 years, Daughters of the American Revolution have played a vital role in preserving history and encouraging patriotism across the country.

In Kilgore, they have gone above and beyond to continue the legacy of our Nation through educational initiatives and supporting our veterans.

As we approach the 250th anniversary of America, their work is more pertinent now than ever before. Leading up to the founding of America, their ancestors stood their ground, wrestled with the weight of liberty, and lit the spark that would give birth to the greatest Nation the world has ever known. Our Nation is grateful for those brave men and women, their sacrifices, and the unwavering commitment to the founding of our Nation.

Now, through their impact, East Texans and Americans will be reminded of this service and patriotism.

I look forward to their participation in America 250--a nationwide event, with real community impact. I am grateful for their service to our community and our country. God Bless Kilgore, and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable milestone: the 35th anniversary of the Genesis Group.

Founded in 1990 by Phil and Bobbie Burks, Genesis has always stood out--not just for its innovation in public safety technology, but for the heart behind the mission. For 35 years, they've grown a business that's as committed to people and community as it is to excellence in its field.

Under Phil's leadership, Genesis has become more than a technology firm. Through their Genesis Gives Back program, they've supported local schools, churches, and hunger relief efforts--while also becoming a global leader in protecting first responders and public safety professionals around the world.

Phil often says, ``This is God's company, I just work there.'' And while not everyone may put it the same way, there's something powerful about using success as a means to give back and serve others.

Today, we honor Genesis--not only for three and a half decades of business growth--but for the impact they've had on lives here in East Texas and beyond.

I congratulate the Burks family and the entire Genesis team on 35 wonderful years.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Franklin County's 150th Anniversary.

We stand on the proud shoulder of 150 years of history, celebrating the founding of Franklin County in 1875. Franklin County is a vibrant and resilient community, rich with heritage and heart.

Named for Benjamin C. Franklin, the first judicial officer of the Republic of Texas, the county has always stood for justice, independence, and perseverance. From early state settlers to the citizens of today, Franklin County has been shaped by hard work, strong values, and deep roots.

With scenic lakes, thriving agriculture, and local legends, Franklin County is a lot more than a pinpoint on a map. It is a community worth celebrating. The many days I have spent in Franklin County have been filled with incredible people who lead with service and compassion, and world-famous, East Texas hospitality.

The county has balanced tradition and growth, by strengthening the community and promoting new economic development.

As we honor the past, we look forward to a future filled with promise. Here's to the next 150 years of Franklin County. May it continue to grow, inspire and shine as a beacon of East Texas. It is an honor to represent this community in Washington.

God Bless Franklin County.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bob Hallmark. After nearly three decades of reporting, storytelling, and shining a light on east Texas, Bob Hallmark is signing off from KLTV.

I couldn't let this moment go without thanking him for his service.

Over the years what has always stood out is the way he approached every story with fairness, professionalism, and genuine heart for our community. He had a way of making people feel seen, respected, and understood.

Whether he was covering a serious issue or adding a little humor to the day, Bob was always thoughtful and brought his full self to the job.

Bob never lost sight of the people behind the headlines. He knew every story mattered to someone, and he treated those stories with care. That is rare, and it is why so many trusted him not just as a journalist but as a friend and neighbor.

Mr. Speaker, we will miss hearing ``Bob Hallmark, KLTV News'' at the end of every story, but we are grateful for the many years that we did hear those words.

May Bob enjoy the well-earned next chapter of his life.

I congratulate Bob. I thank him for telling the story of east Texas so well for so long.

Honoring Herb Buie of Junior Achievement of the Greater Tyler Area

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Herb Buie. The Junior Achievement of the Greater Tyler Area announced Mr. Buie will be their 2026 Business Hall of Fame Laureate.

At 95 years young, Mr. Buie continues to set the bar for what leadership, service, and lasting impact mean. For decades, he has been a pillar of the Tyler business community, in both professional success and his deep commitment to giving back to the community.

This award is not just about his career. It is about his legacy, a legacy built on hard work, generosity, and an unwavering belief in the next generation.

As Mr. Buie said himself: ``Junior Achievement is standing at the top of the place to let these young people know what it is to be entrepreneurs, to be workers, businesspeople, how to handle finances, how to be a good community leader.''

These values have been lived out by Mr. Buie for decades.

This year alone, Junior Achievement of Tyler will reach more than 8,300 students, inspiring young minds to dream bigger and to plan wiser.

This mission aligns perfectly with the life and leadership of Herb Buie. He is not just a role model. He is a real-life example of what happens when a person leads with a heart of purpose.

I thank Herb Buie for his leadership, his vision, and the powerful example that he continues to set for all of us. I congratulate him on this well-deserved honor. East Texas is better with him in the community.

Honoring Roundup Day

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Roundup Day. This day celebrates the East Texas State Fair and Rodeo.

The fair and rodeo bring about countless memories for east Texans. Through the fair, we are able to come together in the community and enjoy games, rides, and incredible fair food.

We must not lose sight of the true mission of the weekend, though: bringing together agricultural heritage, families, and the community. This happens in so many locations nationwide.

The weekend also centers around youth development and education. Since 1992, the fair has awarded over $2.1 million to east Texas youth in scholarships and premiums.

In total, the East Texas State Fair brings an estimated economic impact of $10 million to the Tyler and Smith County communities. That is simply remarkable.

We receive visitors of all types, including local families, concertgoers, exhibitors, vendors, contest participants, school groups, entertainers, workers, sponsors, and volunteers. Everyone who attends these events creates an exciting atmosphere where the community can thrive.

I hope everyone enjoys another incredible year at the East Texas State Fair and Rodeo, and I can't wait for my next corn dog.

Recognizing and Honoring Bear Creek Smokehouse

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Bear Creek Smokehouse of Marshall, Texas, which has been named the Small Business Administration's Family-Owned Business of the Year for the Dallas-Fort Worth district.

Since its founding in 1943, Bear Creek Smokehouse has stood as a true east Texas success story. For more than 80 years, the Shoults family has poured their time, energy, and faith into building not just a business but a legacy.

What began as a small family operation has grown into a nationally recognized name, while never losing its deep roots in our community.

The success of Bear Creek Smokehouse is built on the values that never go out of style: hard work, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Guided by the family's motto, Food, Faith and Family, this fourth- generation business continues to embody the very best of the American entrepreneurial spirit. Their products reflect quality. Their service reflects care. Their impact on east Texas reflects generations of dedication.

This recognition is not only a celebration of Bear Creek Smokehouse's accomplishments but also a testament to the importance of family-owned businesses across America. They remind us that when families work together, they can build enterprises that nourish both body and soul, while strengthening the communities they serve.

I congratulate the entire staff at Bear Creek Smokehouse and Robbie, Brenda, and Hunter Shoults on this well-deserved honor. I am confident that they will continue to inspire, serve, and succeed for generations to come.

Honoring Gilmer Independent School District

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Gilmer Independent School District.

We recently received some fantastic news from the Texas Education Agency. Gilmer Elementary School, Gilmer High School, Gilmer Intermediate School, and the Gilmer Early Childhood Center received an A rating for the 2024-2025 school year.

The TEA A through F accountability system evaluates schools and districts based on a range of performance indicators, including students' achievements, academic growth, college and career readiness, and how effectively schools support their most at-risk students.

An A rating means that Gilmer isn't just meeting the mark, they are exceeding expectations across the board. This kind of recognition sends a strong message: Great things are happening in our school systems in east Texas.

This is a great morale boost heading into the new school year, not just for those inside the school walls but across the community.

I am grateful for the strong leadership across Gilmer ISD, including the teachers, the faculty, staff, parents, and students. Together, they work tirelessly to ensure excellence in all of their programs. Gilmer ISD looks to their core principles in all that they do: excellence, achievement, character, and commitment.

I look forward to seeing the incredible work that they do this year and the great successes that lie ahead. Go, Buckeyes.

Honoring Charlie Cano

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Charlie Cano.

As CEO of Etex, Charlie leads his team to great successes. Charlie is a leader whose work has truly changed lives across rural Texas. I am proud to congratulate him on receiving the Neville Haynes Award, the highest honor from the Texas Telephone Association.

For more than a decade, Charlie has led Etex with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to connecting the unconnected. Under his leadership, Etex hasn't just expanded broadband, it has brought real opportunity to rural east Texas.

This award encapsulates a career dedicated to service, advocacy, and the belief that every community, no matter how small or how remote, deserves access to the digital future.

Charlie's impact goes far beyond technology. He has raised the standard for what it means to serve customers, neighbors, and friends.

I congratulate Charlie on this well-deserved recognition and thank him for providing that leadership that is rooted in community. We know that because of his leadership, anything is possible.

Honoring Texarkana College

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Texarkana College. Earlier this month, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board released its 2024 accountability measures, and I am proud to share that Texarkana College has earned the number one ranking in the entire State of Texas for 3-year and 6-year student completion rates. This is among all 50 public colleges in the entire State of Texas.

Even more impressive, Texarkana College's 3-year completion rate is nearly double the State average. This is truly extraordinary.

These are more than numbers. This represents the lives that are changed and our future that is strengthened. When a student completes their education, it opens doors for themselves, for their children, and for generations to come. The effect of this success is felt throughout our workforce, our local economy, and our entire region.

This accomplishment did not happen by chance. It is the direct result of years of strategic efforts, innovation, and hard work by President Dr. Jason Smith, Vice President Dr. Dixon Boyles, and every faculty member, support staff, and adviser at Texarkana College, as well as the Texarkana community.

They have not only done this once, Texarkana College has ranked number

one three times in the past decade and in the top five nine times. This consistency speaks volumes about the leadership, the systems in place, and a heart behind the work being done.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire Texarkana community and the Texarkana College. They are making a difference and building the right future for east Texas.

Honoring Four Outstanding Members of Mount Pleasant Fire Department

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Deputy Chief Aristeo Rodriguez, Captain Adam Decker, driver Phil Fry, and firefighter Aaron Williams of the Mount Pleasant Fire Department.

Four outstanding members of the Mount Pleasant Fire Department were awarded the Life Saving Medal. This is a distinction reserved for those whose actions directly result in saving lives. These brave men and women exemplify the highest ideals of public service. In moments of danger when every second counts and hesitation can cost lives, they acted with clarity, courage, and incredible skill.

Because of these individuals, someone's child, spouse, friend, or loved one is alive today. We often speak about public safety in terms of equipment, training, or response times, and those things are certainly critical, but at the heart of it all is character.

These four men embodied the spirit of selfless service. They do not act courageously for recognition. They act because it is who they are. It is what they are called to do day in and day out. They act quietly and humbly with steadiness and steadfastness.

On behalf of a grateful city and community and on behalf of a grateful State and Nation, we thank them for their commitment, for their bravery, and for their service. Their extraordinary service has made a true difference in the community.

To the four honorees, they are our protectors. They are our heroes. I congratulate them on this incredible award and Godspeed and God's blessings and God's protection for each of them moving forward.

Honoring 75th Anniversary of St. John's Episcopal Church

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 75th anniversary of St. John's Episcopal Church located in Carthage, Texas.

On July 29, 1950, a handful of Episcopalians met with Reverend John Fritts in the abandoned theater on the square. This marked the first Episcopal service in Carthage. This marked the birth of St. John's Episcopal Church in Carthage.

Within a year, there were enough members to form a mission with the approval of the Bishop of the Diocese of Texas, the Right Reverend Clinton Quin. The congregation was originally meeting in a garage apartment on Sycamore Street, but that didn't last long.

When the church was originally being built, a fire destroyed part of the building right before Christmas. The community did not waver. It began meeting in people's homes and continued the work of Christ. This is a true testament of the resilience of the Carthage community.

The church has expanded throughout the years to include a parish hall and an education wing, but the congregation outshines the four walls they meet in. St. John's Episcopal Church has remained a pillar of the Carthage community for 75 years and has made a difference in countless lives during that time.

As we look to the future, we trust God will continue to guide and strengthen this faithful congregation. We ask over the next 75 years St. John's Episcopal Church be filled with greater service, unity, and spiritual growth in Carthage and beyond; just as they have seen over the past 75 years.

Honoring Life of Charlie Kirk

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of Charlie Kirk. Charlie was a faithful servant, not only to the cause of liberty, but more importantly, to the kingdom of God.

His voice was strong in the public square, but his true mission was always to direct people to Jesus Christ our Savior and our only hope through His truth.

We also lift up his beloved wife, Erika, and their children. May the Lord wrap them in his arms of comfort and peace during this time of personal and national grief.

Political violence has no place in America. We are all first and foremost children of God and citizens of one Nation under Him. Before we are Democrats or Republicans, we are Americans, neighbors called to love one another. We each have equal and eternal value in the sight of our creator, and we should each treat each other with that equal and eternal value.

Charlie treated others this way as he engaged in debate on tough topics in the public square. He did so in a civil, respectful, and dignified manner, just the way it is supposed to be done. He did so from a heart of love, not one of hate.

We should follow his example as we engage in our debates moving forward in this Nation. We should look to how he treated others, how he saw others, and how he sought to preserve liberty and our Republic.

May Charlie's witness inspire us to walk humbly, to speak truth boldly, and to fix our eyes upon the eternal promises of God. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with Erika, their family, and all who mourn his passing.

Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Onder).

Honoring Charlie Kirk

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Love Thy City event held in Tyler, Texas, a community-wide initiative that reminds us that service to our neighbors doesn't start in Washington, it starts in the heart and in the home as it extends to every corner of this earth.

Organized by local citizen-leaders, churches, nonprofits, and volunteers of all ages, Love Thy City is a day of service to others rooted in the great command to love our neighbors. That's a principle that transcends politics and parties. It transcends race and gender and every difference between us. It is our shared responsibility to care for everyone around us just as the Good Samaritan did--not because Government would tell us to, but because the Love of Christ propels us to.

Whether it's cleaning up a park, helping a neighbor in need, or simply showing kindness to a stranger, Love Thy City challenges us to use our active faith to lead by example and invest in our communities-- not just with words, but with action.

This is what makes East Texas strong; faith, service, and a deep love for God and for one another. I'm proud to honor this effort today and to recognize all those who give their time to love their neighbor.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Love Thy City event held in Tyler, Texas, a community-wide initiative that reminds us that service to our neighbors does not start in Washington, D.C. It starts in the heart and in the home, and it extends to every corner of this Earth.

Organized by local citizen leaders, churches, nonprofits, and volunteers of all ages, Love Thy City is a day of service to others, rooted in the great command to love our neighbors. That is a principle that transcends politics and parties, race and gender, and every other perceived difference between us.

It is our shared responsibility to care for everyone around us just as the Good Samaritan did, not because government would tell us to, but because the love of Christ propels us to.

Whether it is cleaning up a park, helping a neighbor in need, or simply showing kindness to a stranger, Love Thy City challenges us to use our active faith to lead by example and invest in our communities, not just with words, but with action.

This is what makes east Texas strong: faith, service, and a deep love for God and for others. I am proud to honor this effort today and to recognize all those who give their time to love their neighbor.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor and to remember those whose lives were lost and who were impacted by the catastrophic floods that struck central Texas in the early morning hours of July Fourth, when children and families were abruptly awakened by the terrifying sounds of water rushing into their campsites and homes, overtaking them in a matter of minutes. It was an unthinkable tragedy. One that has scarred, no doubt, the sorrowful soul of so many in Texas and beyond.

As we have come to understand, many of those who were lost were simply children enjoying their time at summer camp, children not unlike my two children, who went to summer camp this year. It is a place meant for joy and laughter and for friendship and lasting memories, but instead brought destruction.

Mr. Speaker, 132 precious lives have been lost to date, and with so many more individuals still unaccounted for. The physical and emotional destruction has been overwhelming. Lives have been lost, homes and businesses have been washed away, lifelong belongings destroyed, and an entire community, State, and Nation are left in anguish and in shock.

Mr. Speaker, we are heartbroken for the families who lost precious family members. No words can fill the void that these loved ones left in their homes and in their communities. We pray for peace, for comfort, for healing, and for understanding during the long and hard road of grief ahead. We acknowledge, though, that in our humanness we may never fully understand why such tragedies happen, but in that same moment, we acknowledge fully that we serve a great God above who does.

I will also take time to extend my deepest gratitude to the courageous first responders as well as our local and State officials who acted swiftly and selflessly in the face of this devastation to save so many other lives. Their dedication and bravery saved countless lives in the face of this devastation. Equally inspiring were the countless Good Samaritans, ordinary citizens who became heroes, risking their own lives to help both friends and strangers in need.

Texans are remarkable. As has been said today, in the midst of tragedy, we will see and we do see and we have seen the immense character of the people of Texas, particularly the people of central Texas.

In the days and weeks ahead, we pledge to stand in prayer and in sorrow and solidarity with the families who have lost their loved ones and the people of central Texas, particularly those in Kerr County that have been so intently affected by this devastating flood.

Mr. Speaker, our prayer today is for hope and for peace for all of those in the difficult days ahead. I am privileged to be able to stand here alongside so many great men and women of character that serve our delegation in the State of Texas.

I thank Mr. Roy for his leadership during this time of devastation and tragedy in his district and to say we stand with those families. We ask for God's blessings and peace on each one of them. May God bless them.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the courage and sacrifice of those serving in Emergency Medical Services. We pay tribute to the EMS and air medical professionals who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Ms. Jeanne Lackey, Mr. Gerald Morgan, Sr., and Ms. Kathryn Lea Ohnheiser each served with TMF Flight for Life, which provides critical care transport services across East Texas--including in Palestine, Longview, Wills Point, and Mount Pleasant. This program focuses on transporting critically ill and injured patients to specialized care centers. Ms. Lackey, Mr. Morgan, and Ms. Ohnheiser gave their lives in the line of duty on February 13, 1989, as a result of an air medical incident.

Mr. James Thomas served with Champion EMS in Tyler, Texas, an organization that provides emergency medical services to 12 counties in Northeast Texas. Mr. Thomas lost his life in the line of duty on May 31, 1988, due to a traumatic injury.

Today, I am proud to recognize these four individuals who selflessly served the communities of East Texas. This year's National EMS Weekend of Honor reminds us of the sacrifice, perseverance, and integrity with which they lived their lives.

I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Ms. Lackey, Mr. Morgan, Ms. Ohnheiser, and Mr. Thomas, and in extending our deepest gratitude to their families. May their legacies continue to inspire all of us to serve with honor and dedication.

Mr. Speaker, I was inadvertently detained. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 152, and YEA on Roll Call No. 153.