Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I have heard a lot of claims, some of them very hyperbolic and some of which I would classify as drivel from some of the prior speakers.

It is one thing to disagree, but we should at least be truthful. Let's look at the amendment itself, section 716, lines 9 through 14: The Department of Defense may not use any funds for abortions except where the life of the mother would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term or in a case where the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.

Let's be truthful, Mr. Speaker. At least we are making some progress. Some of the Members, our friends across the aisle, have actually used the term ``woman'' instead of ``birthing person.'' That is something that has, I think at least for me, given me some hope.

The question before us is a simple one: Are we a rule of law nation or not?

Secretary Austin's decision to pay servicemembers to pursue abortions is a clear violation of current law, the Hyde amendment.

We are hearing ``necessary healthcare.'' Is it necessary healthcare, or is it an elective abortion? Necessary healthcare in the case of, let's say, rape is already covered under the Hyde amendment.

Don't paint us with some wide brush to say that we want to take that right away. I would submit that many Republicans want to protect women that have been impregnated because of rape.

That is absurd, and it really is very unfair.

Is the DOD complying with Federal law right now or not? This policy does it by prohibiting funding. The NDAA is simply ensuring we maintain the protections that are already enshrined in current law.

Again, it is one thing to disagree, but to make these hyperbolic, untrue claims doesn't serve the purposes of a spirited exchange of ideas or an honest debate.

Secretary Austin, if you want to be honest, is playing politics. If he would simply follow the law, 300 general and flag officers would get the promotions that they are due.

The only people who are jeopardizing readiness right now are Secretary Austin and President Biden and his administration.

Our bill puts an end to this nonsense once and for all. I support the amendment.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the contributions to Rockwall County by Mrs. Sharon Sparkman Henson. Mrs. Henson currently serves as the County Chair of the Rockwall County Republican Party and the Vice President of Legislature for the Rockwall County Republican Women's (RCRW) club.

Mrs. Henson was born in Longview, Texas. She attended the University of North Texas where she earned a bachelor's degree in journalism and public relations. Shortly after graduation, Mrs. Henson began her career as a Marketing Manager for the John Deere company in Louisiana before moving back to the Lone Star State to serve as the Public lnformation officer for the City of Farmers Branch, Texas. While working on the marketing team at a medical sales company, she met and married the love of her life, Richard. Together, they have been happily married for over 27 years and raised 2 sons, Jace and Joshua.

During college, Mrs. Henson phone banked for the Ronald Reagan campaign, which sparked her interest in politics. This interest led to her continued involvement in grassroot political campaigns. She would go on to serve as the Publicity Chair for the Rockwall County GOP before becoming County Chair in 2021. Furthermore, Mrs. Henson is a devoted woman of faith, and regularly attends Lakeshore Church with her family. She credits her strong faith to her ultimate triumph over breast cancer, in which she is almost 8 years cancer-free. Without question, her resilience and tireless efforts have greatly strengthened the conservative movement and the Republican Party of Texas. For her prominent work, Mrs. Henson has been recognized as the RCRW Woman of Influence.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our nation's Capitol to recognize Mrs. Henson's lifetime of service to the good people of North Texas. May God bless her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life and service of Mr. Robert ``Bob'' Garza of Plano, Texas, who passed away on April 10, 2023.

Mr. Garza was born on July 5, 1940, in San Marcos, Texas, to Antonio and Hortencia Garza. After graduating from high school, he briefly attended Southwest Texas State University before joining the United States Marine Corps. During his time in the Marines, Mr. Garza trained as an electrician and served overseas in Japan. He was an expert marksman and was honorably discharged as a Lance Corporal. Mr. Garza later returned to the U.S. and completed his degree in Mathematics.

Mr. Garza later worked as a teacher and a computer programmer for the United Services Automobile Association. He eventually settled in Plano, Texas, where he served as the Vice President and Database Administrator for Bank of America. He married his wife Sherri, and together, they have 5 children and many more grandchildren. Mr. Garza retired in 2012 after 33 years working with the bank.

Those who knew Mr. Garza can tell you that he truly enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, who loved him dearly. He was very passionate about sports, traveling, music, and restoring classic cars. Moreover, Mr. Garza was a devoted man of faith and frequently attended the Memorial Presbyterian Church.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capital to recognize Mr. Garza's life and service to our Nation. He will be dearly missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th birthday of Mr. Royce Tasker of Sherman, Texas. Mr. Tasker faithfully served the United States Army Air Corps in the Second World War and turned 100 years old on August 8, 2023.

Royce Tasker was born on August 8, 1923, in Abilene, Texas. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the Army in the hopes of pursuing an aviation path. His hard work paid off, as he passed his aviation cadet exam and obtained the rank of First Lieutenant. Mr. Tasker later attended advanced flight school in San Antonio, Texas, and was assigned as a bomber pilot to perform combat duty in the Pacific Theater.

He was given orders to attack Clark Field, an American air base in the Philippines captured by enemy forces during the early stages

of the Pacific war. During his mission, 1 of his B-24 Liberator's engines was struck by enemy fire, forcing Mr. Tasker and his crew to crash land in a rice paddy. Tragically, 1 of his gunners was killed, and several more crew members were severely burned. Thankfully, a group of Filipino civilians rescued them and provided shelter and aid long enough for the United States Navy to send a boat to pick them up. For his injuries sustained in combat, First Lt. Tasker received the Purple Heart.

In recognition of his remarkable achievements, the city of Sherman has named Royce Tasker as a Texoma Hero and proclaimed July 28, 2023, as 1st Lieutenant Royce Tasker Day. I am proud to recognize Mr. Tasker's honor, courage, and steadfast patriotism here today, and I wish him good health for many more years to come.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capital to recognize Mr. Tasker's amazing life and service to our Nation. May God bless Mr. Tasker on 100 years of life and joy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions to the city of Paris,

Texas by Mr. Bob Hundley. For over 45 years, Mr. Hundley served in the Paris Police Department.

From a young age, Mr. Hundley had his mind set on pursuing a career in law enforcement and positively impacting his community. He first began working for the Tyler Police Department as a patrol officer in January of 1975. Shortly after, he relocated to the Paris Police Department and made it his life's mission to help his community through the best and worst of times. From assisting children in appalling situations to rescuing individuals in natural disasters, Mr. Hundley's commitment to selfless service has remained steadfast throughout the years. He was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in the early 1990s and also served as the emergency management coordinator.

Beginning in 2004, Mr. Hundley served as the assistant police chief and was later promoted to Chief of Police in 2009. For the next 11 years, he led the charge to protect and serve North Texas during which he established a robust training program for future law enforcement officers. Moreover, Mr. Hundley created a Citizen's Police Academy to improve law enforcement outreach efforts to the public. Under his leadership, the Paris Police Department received 2 Recognized Law Enforcement Agency awards. At the time, only 66 out of Texas' 2,800 police departments had received such an award. Many people who know Mr. Hundley would agree that his humble contributions to Paris have been invaluable, and his retirement on July 3, 2023, was well deserved after a lifetime of public service.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capital to recognize Mr. Hundley's lifetime of public service to the good people of North Texas. I wish him good health and the best of luck in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Kenneth Webb of Paris, Texas, for being recognized as a Homegrown Hero by the St. Paul Baptist Church. Mr. Webb has continued to stand out as an exemplary leader for North Texas through his acts of selfless service and generosity.

Mr. Webb graduated from Paris Junior College in 1983, where he received dual honors from Phi Theta Kappa, an international 2-year college honor society. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Louisiana-Lafayette in 1988 and a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration from Texas A&M University-Commerce. After graduation, he returned to Paris Junior College to serve as the Director for Student Services, a position he holds to this day. Under his tenure, thousands of students stepped foot on campus and went on to achieve remarkable academic success and fulfill their potential. In 2018, he was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Texas Hall of Honor for College Administrators and was recognized as a Distinguished College Administrator. I am privileged to commend Mr. Webb today for his unmatched dedication to student success.

A devoted man of faith, Mr. Webb also serves as a deacon at Oak Hill Baptist Church in Arthur City. Furthermore, Mr. Webb serves on the Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Club, where he was admitted into the Boys and Girls Club Hall of Fame in 2018 for his passion for youth community service. In 2019, he was awarded the Clintgate Friend of the Youth Award, which is bestowed to distinguished individuals who have dedicated numerous community service hours to benefit the children of Lamar County. Without question, Mr. Webb's commitment has had tremendous impact and made a notable difference in the lives of so many individuals. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, barbecuing, baseball, and spending time with his family.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capital to recognize Mr. Webb's lifetime of service to the North Texas community. May God Bless him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of Mr. Daniel Rudolph Inman, a seventh generation Grayson County native, who passed away on August 8, 2023.

Mr. Inman was born on July 17, 1989, in Sherman, Texas, to Timothy Rudolph Inman and Cheryl Dianne Patrick Inman. Mr. Inman graduated from Sherman High School in 2008, where he was a star varsity football player and officer in Future Farmers of America. Livestock and animals were his passion, and his hand-raised heifer won first place at the Houston Livestock Show. He attended East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma, on a full ride football scholarship. Mr. Inman's love for football dates back to his childhood, in which he accompanied his great uncle, Sam Johnson, to football games at Notre Dame. One of his fondest memories was seeing the Notre Dame locker room and touching the ``Play Like a Champion Today'' sign before walking onto the field.

Mr. Inman later worked for Emerald Custom Pools in Saginaw, Texas, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become a manager. Thanks to his hard work and effort, Emerald Custom Pools was listed as 1 of the Top 50 Builders nationwide. Those who knew Daniel will tell you that he was a kind soul that was loved by everyone, especially his nieces and nephew. Mr. Inman was a devoted man of faith and was always willing to lend a hand to assist those in need. His empathy also extended to local animals and drove him to volunteer at the Friends of Lancaster animal shelter in Fort Worth. Without question, Mr. Inman's friends and family truly cherished each moment with him.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capitol to recognize Mr. Inman's vibrant and uplifting life. He will be dearly missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend George Fisher, Jr. of Paris, Texas, for being recognized as a Homegrown Hero by the St. Paul Baptist Church. Reverend Fisher joins a select group of exceptional leaders who have dedicated a lifetime of service to the people of Lamar County.

Reverend Fisher attended Paris Junior College and later received an Associate of Science in Biblical Studies from the Southern Bible Institute & College in Dallas, Texas. After graduation, Reverend Fisher worked for the Kimberly Clark Corporation before being elected to serve on the Paris City Council and as the Mayor of Paris. During this time, Reverend Fisher served both as the President of the Texas Conference of Black Mayors and as a member of the steering committee for the Boys and Girls Club. In this role, he spearheaded efforts to improve youth outreach and community service initiatives by the city of Paris.

In 2003, Reverend Fisher was elected to the Paris Independent School District board. As the School Board President, he worked diligently to improve parental involvement in the educational process. His longtime investments in Paris ISD schools have helped ensure the future success of thousands of students. Moreover, Reverend Fisher is a steadfast man of faith, and he currently serves as the Senior Pastor of New Mount Olive Baptist Church in Grant, Oklahoma. His tireless efforts to inspire and empower the youth of his community have not gone unnoticed. Reverend Fisher has served as a beacon of support and enriched the lives of so many. I'm pleased to give recognition for his outstanding service to students, parents, and worshippers. In his personal time, he is fond of traveling, volunteering, spending time with his family, and visiting new restaurants.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capital to recognize Reverend Fisher's unparalleled commitment to benefit the people of North Texas. May God Bless him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life and service of Mr. Thomas ``Tom'' Roy Birkenstock of Burlington, Iowa, who passed away on August 15, 2023.

Mr. Birkenstock was born on July 16, 1944, in Burlington, Iowa to Roy George and Marjorie Maude Holsteen Birkenstock. A lifelong farmer, he graduated from Iowa State University in 1966 with a degree in Animal Science. Mr. Birkenstock also served 6 years in the National Guard. He married Sue Ellen Maupin on February 26, 1966, and together, they have 3 children and many more grandchildren.

Those who knew Mr. Birkenstock will tell you that he was always generous and kind. He never knew a stranger, and happily engaged every individual he met. Mr. Birkenstock always put family first and committed much of his time to his grandchildren. In his free time, Mr. Birkenstock was passionate about golfing, woodworking, hunting, fishing, and sports; he was a loud and proud supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes, Green Bay Packers, and the St. Louis Cardinals. A devoted man of faith, Mr. Birkenstock was a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus fraternal organization and St. Mary's Catholic Church in Dodgeville, where he served on the church council and taught Sunday School. His generosity and contributions towards his local community were unmatched and will be remembered for many years to come.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capitol to recognize Mr. Birkenstock's life and service to our Nation. He will be dearly missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of Mrs. Mildred McMillan Garrett. Mrs. Garrett enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps in the Second World War as a cook.

A native of Emory, Texas, Mrs. Garrett was born on September 5, 1923, and was 1 of 7 children in a military family. Despite the challenges posed by segregated schooling and living through the hardships of the Great Depression, she excelled in her studies at the historic Rosenwald Schools at Sand Flat and Richland. Her lengthy public service career began as a soldier in the Women's Army Corps. She was 1 of only 2 women from Rains County to join. After the war, Mrs. Garrett attended Texas College and received a certificate in cosmetology. She married David Garrett on December 24, 1945, and raised many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Garrett was a longtime member of the Prairie Grove Baptist Church, where she often cooked for attendees and assisted in fundraising events. She was appointed to the Hope Well Cemetery Committee and served on the Board of Directors for the A.C. McMillan African American Museum. Furthermore, Mrs. Garrett was the first black woman to serve in numerous leadership positions across Rains County as a city councilmember and mayor pro tempore. Under her management, Emory experienced increased infrastructure development. At the same time, she continued to participate in volunteering and outreach efforts in her community. For her work and service, the Mildred McMillan Garrett Memorial Bridge is dedicated in her honor.

Her passion and love of God, family, and country will always be remembered. I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capital to recognize Mrs. Garrett's extraordinary life and service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 70th anniversary of the end of hostilities in the Korean War. From the freezing temperatures of the Chosin Reservoir to the race to the Yalu River, over 1.8 million men and women from our Armed Forces fought with distinction and bravery.

Unfortunately, the Korean War still lingers today as the armistice was never intended to be a permanent peace treaty. The armistice established the Demilitarized Zone on the 38th parallel and currently divides the free Nation of South Korea and the communist regime in North Korea.

Since the end of hostilities, South Korea has forged a historic and beautiful relationship with the United States and is 1 of our closest allies in Asia. Today, South Korea remains prosperous, democratic, and unwavering in the face of communist aggression. Each year, we are reminded that the costs of freedom come with a heavy price, and we are grateful for all service members who demonstrated integrity and courage in the struggle for self-determination.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capital to recognize our Nation's veterans in their valiant efforts to defeat the threat of communism. We must continue to stay vigilant and strive to maintain order and stability in the region. I will continue to advocate for efforts that will unify the Korean people once again. Our Veterans' sacrifices to uphold freedom and liberty in the Korean Peninsula will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Audrey Smith for earning the dean's list award at the First Robotics World Competition in Houston, Texas. Ms. Smith is one of ten students who received recognition for her leadership, team efforts, and community involvement.

A native of Rockwall, Texas, Ms. Smith is currently a rising senior at Rockwall High School. As a student, she focuses on science, technology, engineering, math, and college preparatory courses. In her junior year, she led her competitive robotics team and received numerous honors for her work, including the Honor Roll and the President's Volunteer Service Award. After graduation, Ms. Smith plans to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York, and study mechanical engineering.

During her free time, Ms. Smith takes opportunities to further her knowledge of robotics and participates in her school's varsity tennis team, where she was the top ranked player in her sophomore and junior years. Additionally, she is an accomplished pianist, recreational shooter, and scuba diver. I'm proud to represent such talented students in my district, and I have no doubt that she will continue to be an exceptional example for her peers.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capitol to recognize Ms. Smith's outstanding academic performance and entrepreneurial spirit. I wish her the best of luck and continued success in the new school year.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions to the Fannin County community by Sandy Barber. For over 22 years, Mrs. Barber has served as the Executive Director of the Fannin County Children's Center, and she has over 31 years of experience in the nonprofit and child welfare sectors.

A native of Arlington, Mrs. Barber graduated from Austin College in Sherman, Texas. Her passion for child welfare services originates from her longtime desire to help put an end to the victims of abuse. Under her leadership, Fannin County Children's Center has expanded its community programs and outreach to assist children who have been abused and neglected. Some of these efforts include expanding mental health services, offering emergency resources and providing clothing. Mrs. Barber also oversaw the purchase and renovation of their current facility in Bonham, Texas.

Moreover, Mrs. Barber has served on the board for Texas Court Appointed Special Advocates and the Children's Advocacy Centers of Texas. To recognize her outstanding work, she was named the Texoma Regional Citizen of the Year and Bonham Citizen of the Year. Mrs. Barber also received the Athena Leadership Award and the Angels in Adoption Award in 2019. I'm confident that many young people have been inspired by Mrs. Barber's efforts and have no doubt that they will follow her footsteps to help prevent horrific acts of child abuse.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capitol to recognize Mrs. Barber's important contributions to the children of North Texas. May God Bless her.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 258.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the United States. From the icy waters of the Delaware River to the burning sands of the Middle East, our armed forces have continuously devoted themselves to the cause of freedom and liberty for all Americans and our allies.

Today, we take a moment to honor those who have given the last full measure of devotion that we might continue to proclaim the United States as the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. Our warriors have ensured with their very blood that all Americans might live in peace and security. They have fought in the unforgiving trenches of Western Europe, stormed the beaches of Normandy, endured the harsh winters of Korea, and trudged through the jungles of Vietnam. Time and again, our veterans have shown we will meet any foe on land, sea, or in the air and we will prevail.

Our district is no stranger to heroes, with one of the finest examples of American bravery being First Lieutenant Audie Murphy. He remains the most decorated American Soldier in our nation's history, having received the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Star Medals, three Bronze Stars, three Purple Hearts, and many other citations. Lt. Murphy hailed from Kingston, Texas in Hunt County. While he is a shining example of American heroism, this same spirit lives on in all who have heeded the call to serve their nation from the Fourth District.

I ask today that we all take a moment to recognize our veterans whose sacrifices have safeguarded the freedoms we cherish today. We will always remember their selfless acts of valor, and may God rest their souls.