Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Captain Thomas Unerfusser of Denison, Texas, and to honor him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Captain Unerfusser honorably served in the United States Air Force from 1985 to 2006.

Captain Unerfusser began his distinguished military career as an enlisted airman, achieving the rank of Technical Sergeant (E-6) before earning his commission as an officer, and rising to the rank of Captain (O-3E). His service took him to Altus Air Force Base, Loring Air Force Base, Vandenberg Air Force Base, and numerous other locations around the world. Throughout his career, he served in the Persian Gulf War, Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Provide Comfort, Operation Desert Calm, Operation Northern Watch, and other classified missions across Europe and Africa.

For his exemplary service, Captain Unerfusser received numerous honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Air Force Achievement Medal. His dedication and excellence also earned him recognition as Boom Operator of the Year and Honor Guard of the Year, reflecting his professionalism, precision, and leadership both in the air and on the ground.

Following his distinguished military career, Captain Unerfusser continued his service to others by joining the Denison Police Department, where he achieved Master Police Officer certification. After retiring from the department, he continued his commitment to justice and public service as a Grayson County District Attorney Investigator. Captain Unerfusser remains active in the veteran community as a lifetime member of the Sherman Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Perrin Air Force Base Museum, the Air Force Sergeants Association, and the Air Force Association.

I am deeply honored to recognize Captain Thomas Unerfusser for his courage, patriotism, and lifelong devotion to serving others. He exemplifies the very best of Texas' 4th Congressional District and of the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chair and ranking member for their leadership. They did a wonderful job on this.

Mr. Speaker, this NDAA contains substantial wins for servicemembers and their families. It continues the committee's tradition of improving the quality of life of servicemembers and their families by authorizing a 3.8 percent pay raise, expanding childcare, increasing family separation allowances, expanding and reauthorizing special pays and bonuses, and expanding convalescent leave.

This bill also bans cell phones in DODEA schools, prevents the downsizing or closing of childcare centers without congressional notification, expands access to healthcare, prevents the elimination of uniformed

doctors, increases access to specialty care, and authorizes over $335 million to renovate and build new medical centers, hospitals, and clinics.

More importantly, this bill puts the final nail in the coffin of the Biden DOD's woke bureaucracy. The FY 2026 NDAA includes essential reforms that we all know are essential to refocus our military on warfighting and lethality by codifying the President's executive order of ending radical and wasteful government diversity, equity, and inclusion, better known as DEI, programs and preferencing; eliminating statutory provisions relating to DEI in the Department of War; and requiring all command selections to be based--wait for it--on individual merit and demonstrative performance rather than race, ethnicity, or sex. Those categories would be immaterial.

Mr. Speaker, I urge the passage of this bipartisan NDAA so we can deliver on our promises to servicemembers and their families, making our warfighters lethal, better trained, and more prepared for the future fight, while ensuring their quality of life is the standard Americans expect us to provide their brave warriors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Mark Kipphut of McLendon-Chisholm, Texas, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Mark has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community and country.

After graduating from The Citadel with a political science degree in May 1979, Mark commissioned into the United States Air Force. He served as a Command Intelligence Officer during the Gulf War and Global War on Terrorism for many years. In his last assignment, Mark became the Director of Intelligence for the Pacific Air Forces at Hickam Air Force Base. He later received a master's degree in management from Embry- Riddle University.

When he retired from the military as a Colonel, Mark served as the Director of Strategy for Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, Arizona. In 2010, he and his family moved to Texas, where he became the Program Director of Tactical Intelligence Systems for Raytheon. In this role, Mark oversaw hundreds of millions of dollars in annual sales and government contracting. He currently works as a Senior Advisor for BCE Consulting, in which he focuses on enhancing our operational capabilities to defend against cyber and unmanned threats. In addition to protecting our national security, Mark is passionate about giving back to his community and supporting our veterans. He is the Commander of the Rockwall Terry Fisher American Legion Post, where he created college scholarships for the children of veterans. Moreover, Mark organizes annual trips for students to attend the Youth Leadership Conferences. I am proud of Mark's contributions to our community, and I am sure he will continue to make a positive impact on the world around us for many years to come.

It is an honor to bestow Mark with the Patriot Award for his exceptional service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Colonel Lorna Kipphut of Rockwall, Texas, and to honor her with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Lieutenant Colonel Kipphut honorably served in the United States Air Force from 1978 to 1998, dedicating twenty years to the defense of our Nation with distinction, leadership, and trailblazing service.

Lieutenant Colonel Kipphut began her career as an intelligence officer, serving in pivotal assignments across Korea and Germany during the Cold War. She went on to serve as a desk officer for the National Intelligence Center, providing critical intelligence support during Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield, and later oversaw intelligence operations for Operation Southern Watch. Throughout her career, she set a standard of excellence, becoming the first woman officer assigned to the USAF Red Flag Combat Readiness Program and the first female combat operations officer assigned to the Air Combat Command Inspector General Program.

For her exemplary service, Lieutenant Colonel Kipphut received numerous awards, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal with one device, the Meritorious Service Medal with three devices, the Air Force Commendation Medal with one device, the National Defense Service Medal, the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, and the Air Force Organizational Excellence Award with one device, among many others recognizing her exceptional performance and commitment to excellence.

Following her retirement from the Air Force, Lieutenant Colonel Kipphut has continued her legacy of leadership and service in her community. Under her direction, the Terry Fisher Boys & Girls State Program grew by more than 600 percent, now over 25 students participate in this nationally recognized civic leadership program each year. She remains an active member of the Rockwall Terry Fisher American Legion Post No. 117, where she serves as Post Adjutant, and is also an engaged member of the Rockwall Republican Women's Club.

I am deeply honored to recognize Lieutenant Colonel Lorna Kipphut for her courage, pioneering leadership, and lifelong dedication to serving her country and community. She represents the very best of Texas' 4th Congressional District and of the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Warrant Officer Three Joseph Patrick Lynch of Rockwall, Texas, and to honor him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. CW3 Lynch honorably served in the United States Army for twenty-three years.

During his distinguished career, Joseph served with honor in both combat and intelligence operations. From 1967 to 1969, he served in Vietnam, including in the Battle of Khe Sanh, before joining the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He later spent six years with the 2nd Military Intelligence Battalion in Pirmasens, Germany, as Officer in Charge of the Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) and Communications Platoon Leader. His expertise then led him to the 66th Military Intelligence Brigade in Munich, where he oversaw and adjudicated communications security violations across Europe. He concluded his career at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, with the 513th Military Intelligence Brigade, serving as Brigade Signal Officer and Officer in Charge of the SCIF.

CW3 Lynch's exceptional service earned him numerous commendations, including the Silver Star, Purple Heart, Legion of Merit, 17 awards of the Air Medal--including the Air Medal with Combat ``V'' for heroism-- five Army Commendation Medals, including one with Combat ``V'' for heroism, and the Meritorious Service Medal.

Since retiring from the Army, Joseph has been a founding member of the Rockwall Band of Brothers and the Rockwall Veterans' Court. He has been a longtime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion Rockwall, and the Purple Hearts Society, while volunteering his time at Lakepoint Hospital to continue serving his community.

I am deeply honored to recognize Chief Warrant Officer Three, Joseph Patrick Lynch for his extraordinary courage, patriotism, and lifelong commitment to service. He exemplifies the very best of Texas' 4th Congressional District and of our great Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Staff Sergeant John Kisic of Cooper, Texas, and to honor him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Staff Sergeant Kisic honorably served in the United States Air Force from 1983 to 1986 and in the United States Air Force Reserve from 1986 to 1989.

During his time in the Air Force, Staff Sergeant Kisic served as a loadmaster and was actively involved in transportation coordination and operational logistics. His responsibilities included overseeing the safe loading and unloading of cargo and equipment, managing flight line support operations, and serving as both a vehicle operator and vehicle commander. He played a key role in repositioning aircraft on active flight lines and preparing aircraft for long-term storage, ensuring all operations were conducted safely, efficiently, and in support of mission readiness. He was stationed at Altus Air Force Base, and Carswell Air Force Base, and achieved the rank of Senior Airman in the active force and Staff Sergeant in the Air Force Reserve. For his service, he received the Air Force Training Ribbon and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal.

Since separating from the Air Force Reserve, Staff Sergeant Kisic has continued a

life of dedicated public service and community involvement. He has served as a volunteer firefighter with the Delta County Fire Department for over 21 years. His entry into the fire department was a natural extension of his work as an employee and manager with Texas Parks and Wildlife, where he maintained and managed Doctor's Creek State Park. Following his service with the park, John joined the Texas Department of Transportation, beginning in the maintenance division and steadily advancing into the engineering department, eventually managing traffic signals for the area and ensuring the safety and efficiency of local transportation infrastructure.

Within the veterans' community, Staff Sergeant Kisic currently serves as Vice Commander of American Legion Post No. 483, where he contributes to local veteran initiatives. He is also an active member of New Hope Church, serving on the leadership council, and a devoted family man, who supports his children and grandchildren with the same dedication he has shown to his country and community.

I am deeply honored to recognize Staff Sergeant John Kisic for his exceptional leadership, patriotism, and lifelong devotion to serving his country and community. He exemplifies the very best of Texas' 4th Congressional District and of the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Master Sergeant Jerry King of Heath, Texas, and to honor him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Master Sergeant King honorably served in the United States Air Force from 1971 to 1995, demonstrating exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to our Nation.

Jerry was inspired to join the United States Air Force by a beloved friend, David Jackson, during a time when the draft was in full effect. Answering that call to serve, he went on to build a distinguished 24- year career. Throughout his service, Jerry excelled in every role he held--from Aircraft Mechanic to Weapon System and Senior Controller to Master Sergeant--earning the respect of his peers and superiors alike. His service took him to Lackland Air Force Base, Chanute Air Force Base, Altus Air Force Base, Carswell Air Force Base, Grand Forks Air Force Base, Mildenhall Royal Air Force Base, and Sheppard Air Force Base. Jerry proudly served during the Vietnam War and later contributed to Operation Desert Storm during the Gulf War.

For his exceptional performance and leadership, Jerry received numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award Ribbon with three oak leaf clusters, and many others recognizing his professionalism and devotion to duty. In 1987, he was selected as First Sergeant of the Year for his superb leadership of the largest squadron on base, overseeing more than 560 personnel.

After retiring from the Air Force, Jerry continued his lifelong commitment to service. From volunteering at his grandson's school to founding a local veterans' breakfast group, Jerry has continued to give back to his community. He completed correctional officer training and helped open the James V. Allred Correctional Unit in Iowa Park, Texas, where he earned a promotion to Sergeant. He later served his community for seventeen years with the U.S. Postal Service. Today, he remains deeply involved in honor of his fellow veterans as the Hunt County Veterans Honor Guard Coordinator, organizing and participating in funerals and events that pay tribute to their service and sacrifice.

I am deeply honored to recognize Master Sergeant Jerry King for his extraordinary courage, patriotism, and lifelong devotion to serving others. He exemplifies the very best of Texas' 4th Congressional District and of the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Staff Sergeant Jack Eramdjian of Celina, Texas, and to honor him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Staff Sergeant Eramdjian honorably served in the United States Army from 1964 to 1966 and in the United States Army Reserve from 1966 to 1970, demonstrating steadfast dedication and service to our Nation.

Staff Sergeant Eramdjian began his military career as a first-year drill sergeant at Fort Ord, California, where he trained new recruits and helped shape the next generation of soldiers with discipline, strength, and integrity. His service later took him to Fort Lewis, Washington, where he served proudly with the 4th Infantry Division. Throughout his time in uniform, Jack excelled in multiple roles--as an infantryman, field generator specialist, and brigade commander's driver--demonstrating adaptability, professionalism, and dedication to mission success. His commitment to excellence and leadership earned him the Army Good Conduct Medal, recognizing his honorable service and steadfast devotion to duty.

Following his military career, Jack continued to live a life of service during his 27 years with the American Red Cross in California, where he deployed across the country to assist communities recovering from disasters. A tireless advocate for veterans, Jack dedicates his time to advising others on their benefits and claims, promoting participation in Honor Flight, and proudly serving as a member of the American Legion for the past 14 years. In addition, as a certified scuba dive master and master diver, Jack has shared his expertise by training sheriff rescue teams in saltwater operations.

I am deeply honored to recognize Staff Sergeant Jack Eramdjian for his outstanding courage, patriotism, and lifelong devotion to serving others. He exemplifies the very best of Texas' 4th Congressional District and of the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Colonel and Police Chief, Eddie ``Ed'' Drain of Plano, Texas, and to award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Chief Drain honorably served in the United States Army and Army Active Reserve.

At the age of 22, Ed Drain was commissioned into the United States Army, where he served as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer. Through exceptional dedication and courage, he earned the Master Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge and Parachutist Badge, completing advanced training at the Naval School for Explosive Ordnance Disposal and studying the Greek language. His service took him to Greece, South Korea, and later to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he commanded explosive ordnance units with III Corps.

After eleven years of active duty, he transitioned to the U.S. Army Active Reserve, continuing to serve until his retirement in 2007 as a Lieutenant Colonel. His commendations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals, among many others.

Following his military career, Chief Drain turned his focus to public safety, joining the Plano Police Department in 1994. Rising through the ranks from patrol officer to assistant chief, he served on the SWAT team, commanded the Bomb Squad, and led all sworn operations of the department. He went on to serve as Police Chief for the Cities of Amarillo and Murphy before returning home as Chief of Police in Plano in 2020. Beyond his distinguished career in law enforcement, Chief Drain remains deeply committed to his community through his service on the Board of Trustees for Medical City Plano, the Board of Directors for Trusted World, the Office of the Texas Governor's Sexual Assault Survivors Task Force, and as a Commissioner for the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.

I am deeply honored to recognize Lieutenant Colonel and Police Chief, Eddie ``Ed'' Drain for his extraordinary courage, patriotism, and lifelong commitment to service. He represents the very best of Texas' 4th Congressional District and of our great Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Technical Sergeant Donald Babbs of Celina, Texas, and to honor him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Technical Sergeant Babbs honorably served in the United States Air Force from 1957 to 1961 and in the United States Air Force Reserve from 1978 to 1989.

Technical Sergeant Babbs began his career as an Airman Second Class, serving as a munition's specialist at Lowry Air Force Base and Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base. He continued his service in the Air Force Reserve as a Technical Sergeant and NCOIC Explosive Safety Munitions Specialist, stationed at RAF Bentwaters, Malmstrom Air Force Base, Carswell Air Force Base, and Luke Air Force Base. During his career, Technical Sergeant Babbs ensured the safe handling, storage, and deployment of munitions, setting a standard of excellence and reliability that earned the respect of all who served with him.

For his exemplary service, Technical Sergeant Babbs received numerous awards and decorations, including the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon with two oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Air Force Training Ribbon, and the Small Arms Expert Rifle Ribbon.

Following his military service, Technical Sergeant Babbs continued to serve his country and community. He worked for Boeing supporting the Minuteman Project across several northern states, and later served in law enforcement with the Springs Police Department, the Dallas Police Department, the Dallas Marshals Office, and the Dallas Sheriff's Department. He has also served as Chapter President of the McKinney Sons of the American Revolution, representing a family with over thirty-two direct ancestors who fought for our Nation's freedom.

I am deeply honored to recognize Technical Sergeant Donald Babbs for his courage, dedication, and lifelong commitment to serving his country and community. He exemplifies the very best of Texas' 4th Congressional District and of the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Captain Dan McCall of Denton, Texas, and to honor him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Captain McCall honorably served in the United States Army from 1997 to 2005, demonstrating exceptional leadership, courage, and commitment to the defense of our Nation.

Captain McCall began his military career as an Air Defense Artillery Officer, serving at Fort Bliss, Fort Campbell, Fort Bragg, and Fort Polk. He excelled in every officer position from Second Lieutenant to Captain, including Platoon Leader, Staff Officer, Company Commander, and Joint Readiness Training Center Observer/Controller. As a qualified Jumpmaster, he displayed exceptional skill and discipline in airborne operations. Captain McCall deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, leading with integrity and professionalism in demanding environments and earning the respect of those he commanded.

For his exemplary service, Captain McCall received numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal with second award, the Meritorious Service Medal with second award, the Army Commendation Medal with second award, the Army Achievement Medal with third award, the Iraqi Campaign Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Senior Parachutist Badge, and the Air Assault Badge. Each of these honors reflect his valor, skill, and unwavering dedication to our country.

Following his eight years of active duty, Captain McCall continued his service to others by becoming a recruiter, helping hundreds of veterans transition to successful civilian careers. His post-military life remains defined by his commitment to the veteran community. As an active life member of VFW Post No. 8273 in Frisco, Texas, he serves as Post Surgeon and Ruck Squad Chairman, focusing on veterans' health and wellness. Captain McCall also represents the VFW as a member of the Post Color Guard and as the liaison to the City of Frisco Veterans Advisory Committee, ensuring that the voices of veterans are heard and their needs are met.

I am deeply honored to recognize Captain Dan McCall for his outstanding courage, patriotism, and lifelong devotion to serving others. He exemplifies the very best of Texas' 4th Congressional District and of the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sergeant Clinton ``Clint'' Bass of Trenton, Texas, and to honor him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Sergeant Bass honorably served in the United States Air Force from 1967 to 1971 as a member of the Air Police and Base Security.

During his military service, Sergeant Bass was stationed at Forbes Field, Whiteman Air Force Base, Da Nang, Vietnam, during the Vietnam War, and Kunsan Air Base, Korea, during the USS Pueblo crisis. For his exemplary service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Following his military career, Sergeant Bass has remained deeply committed to serving his community and fellow veterans. He participates in the Military Veteran Peer Network (MVPN) and is a proud member of VFW Post No. 6205. He also previously served as Post Commander of the American Legion in Whitewright. Known for his generosity and servant leadership, Sergeant Bass manages the kitchen at his local MVPN, where he and his team prepare meals every Tuesday for more than seventy veterans, their families, and community members who support them. His kitchen--affectionately named--``Clint's Canteen''--has become a symbol of his tireless dedication. His work was recently recognized by the Daughters of the American Revolution for his outstanding service to veterans.

I am deeply honored to recognize Sergeant Clint Bass for his courage, patriotism, and lifelong commitment to serving his country and his community. He truly exemplifies the best of Texas' 4th Congressional District and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a dedicated patriot, Cesar J. Solda, of Chester Springs, Pennsylvania.

Born in France during a time of war, Mr. Solda's life began with great challenge. He was later adopted by an American soldier, a moment that gave him the gift of a second chance and a brighter future. Leaving his family behind, he came to New York and embraced a new life filled with opportunity.

Mr. Solda answered the call to serve our Nation in the United States Army, representing America with honor during the Korean War. Upon his return in 1962, he began a new chapter in Long Island, New York, where he built a family, embraced fatherhood, and shared a life of love with his beloved wife. A proud family man, he often returned to France to reconnect with loved ones, bringing with him his wife, adopted father, and three sons, ensuring that family bonds remained strong across oceans.

In 1985, Mr. Solda and his family moved to Chester Springs, where he grew deep roots in the community. There, he built lasting friendships, expanded his family, and lived life to its fullest. A farmer at heart, he held a profound respect for the land, the soil, and all living things. His life was a testament to resilience, gratitude, and love. As his family and friends now reflect, Mr. Solda climbed every rung of life's ladder--one that reached into the heavens.

In recognition of his service, devotion to family, and the example he set for others, I have requested that the flag of the United States be flown over our Nation's Capitol in his honor. His life was filled with courage, family, and faith, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the remarkable career of Dr. Meena Vyas, whose dedication to mental health care and public service has profoundly impacted the people of Denton County, Texas, and beyond. This year marks 30 years of her extraordinary service with Denton County MHMR, where she has exemplified excellence, compassion, and leadership. Beginning her tenure as a psychiatrist in 1996, Dr. Vyas went on to serve as Medical Director from 2011 to 2023 and now as Chief Medical Officer, providing visionary leadership and compassionate care to countless individuals and families.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Vyas has devoted herself to improving mental health care and strengthening community-based services. She has served on numerous professional committees, including the American Psychiatric Association, the Texas Society of Psychiatric Physicians (TSPP) Public Mental Health Committee, and the Medical Services Consortium of the Texas Council of Community Centers, where she held positions as both Chair and Vice Chair. Her leadership in these roles has helped shape statewide policy and advance the quality and accessibility of behavioral health services for Texans.

Dr. Vyas's contributions have been recognized through several prestigious honors, including the Dr. Spencer Bayles Outstanding TSPP Member Award, the Fellow distinction from the American Psychiatric Association, and the Women of the Year Award for Excellence in Health from the Multi-Ethnic Education and Economic Development Center. Beyond her professional achievements, she has been an active advocate for community well-being, contributing her expertise to initiatives such as the Zero Suicide Task Force, Death Review, and Safety and Quality Management Committees, as well as grant reviews for SAMHSA, CCBHC, and AOT programs.

Dr. Meena Vyas's commitment to her patients, her profession, and her community represents the very best of public service. For three decades, she has embodied compassion, leadership, and innovation in mental

health care, leaving an enduring legacy at Denton County MHMR and across the state of Texas. It is an honor to celebrate her 30 years of dedicated service and her profound contributions to the advancement of mental health.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate Mr. Gary Singleton of Bowie County, Texas, and to present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Gary has dedicated his life to faithfully serving his community and country.

Born in Texarkana, Texas, Gary attended school in the Texarkana and Liberty-Eylau districts before pursuing higher education at Texarkana College, Texas A&M Commerce, and Texas A&M--Texarkana, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business with a minor in computer science. In 1990, he married the love of his life, Lisa Singleton, with whom he has shared many pets, memories, and accomplishments.

After graduating, Gary began his professional career at the Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant, where he served for 26 years, advancing from IT Programmer to Senior Systems Analyst and ultimately Manager of IT Operations. He later worked for Alcoa Inc. as Site Conversion and Development Lead, overseeing software conversions, and for Cooper Tire and Rubber Company as a Systems Analyst. Gary applied his expertise in healthcare technology at the Collom & Carney Clinic in Texarkana and Willis Knighton Health System in Shreveport, Louisiana, before returning to Collom & Carney Clinic, where he is currently employed.

Beyond his professional career, Gary has demonstrated exceptional dedication to civic and political engagement. Beginning in the 1980's, he served as Precinct Chair, later Vice Chairman, and ultimately Chairman of the Bowie County Republican Party. He served for over 15 years as a Board Member and Vice President of the Bowie County Republicans PAC and held leadership roles with the National Management Association--LSAAP Chapter. Among his proudest achievements, Gary was honored as a Presidential Elector from Texas' 1st Congressional District in 2024, casting his vote for Donald J. Trump in the Texas House of Representatives Chamber in Austin.

Gary Singleton's lifelong commitment to his community, his profession, and his Nation truly exemplifies what it means to be a patriot. It is an honor to recognize his exceptional contributions and to present him with the Congressional Patriot Award in appreciation of his steadfast service to the people of Bowie County and the United States of America.