Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Lieutenant Colonel Kyle Frazer's exemplary and distinguished record of service to our Nation. A native of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Kyle was commissioned as an Infantry Officer in 2008 through the University of Utah. He earned his master's degree in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University in 2023.

Kyle was an honor graduate from the Army's Ranger School, Basic Officer Leader's Course, and Air Assault schools. After completing Airborne school and Master Jumpmaster school with distinction, Kyle spent most of his 17-year career at the tactical level specializing in combined arms maneuvers and large-scale combat operations. He deployed three times in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve. Kyle has served as a platoon leader and company commander, senior observer controller, Deputy Chief of Operations of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, battalion and brigade operations officer, and as a congressional staffer, where he was my National Security and Defense Fellow.

Kyle currently serves as a Legislative Liaison for the Army in the House of Representatives. Kyle has been the face of the Army for 435 members of the House of Representatives, with direct influence over 13 states covering 88 Members of Congress. Kyle built, promoted, and facilitated lines of communication between Congress and the Army that were instrumental in maintaining relationships between the executive and legislative branches. Through his ability to clearly define the Army's message and help navigate the needs of Congress to provide essential oversight requirements, Kyle has made a lasting impact on our Nation's ability to respond to global threats, modernize the Army, and maintain the Army's readiness at the highest level.

I want to thank Kyle for his dedication and steadfast commitment to our country. In August, he will be taking over the ROTC program at his alma mater, the University of Utah, where I know he will continue to lead with excellence and honor. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Kyle, his wife, Annie, and their two children, Eleanor and Theodore, for their sacrifices and contributions to the strength and security of our great Nation. I congratulate Kyle, and I wish him the very best.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Elizabeth ``Beth'' Terrell of Burr Ridge, Illinois, and present her with the Congressional Patriot Award. Beth has dedicated herself to faithfully serving our community and country.

A native of Lake Forest, Illinois, Beth attended Saint Mary's College in Notre Dame and graduated in 1989 with a bachelor's degree in communication. She earned her master's degree in public administration from Western Michigan University. Beth started her professional career as a Communication and Training Specialist for the Elkhart County government. She later became Director of Marketing for the Center for Eye Care and Coldwell Banker Sammis in New York state. Since then, Beth has devoted much of her time to growing her family and caring for their children along with her husband, Pat. Together, Beth and Pat launched a family business, Terrell Materials, a leading concrete manufacturing company that services major airports.

In addition to her career, Beth has continued to stay involved in numerous community service initiatives. She served as President of the Carolina Panthers' Women Association, a member of the Hornets' Nest Girl Scout Council Board of Directors, and Girl Scout Leader with the Girl Scouts Council of Greater Chicago and Northwest. Moreover, Beth co-founded Team Terrell alongside Pat to help promote and fundraise for the American Diabetes Association. Her most cherished accomplishment is raising a wonderful family with

seven children, all of whom were instilled with the values of compassion, faith, and kindness. I'm pleased to recognize Beth today for her important contributions to our community, and I wish her continued success.

It is an honor to bestow Beth with the Patriot Award for her exceptional service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Patrick ``Pat'' Terrell of Burr Ridge, Illinois, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Pat has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community and country.

After receiving over forty Division I scholarship offers, Pat ultimately decided to play football at the University of Notre Dame as a member of the Fighting Irish's 1988 National Championship team. He graduated in 1990 with a bachelor's degree in business administration and a minor in international marketing. During the 1990 NFL Draft, Pat was drafted in the second round by the Los Angeles Rams and part of the 1990 All-Rookie Team. He also played with the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, and Green Bay Packers from 1994 to 1998. After retiring from football in 1999, Pat flew corporate jets for United Airlines and Delta Air Lines before becoming a Captain at

American Trans Air, now ATA Airlines. Moreover, he founded Terrell Materials, a very successful company that specializes in high-volume concrete manufacturing for runways and taxiways at major airports.

Understanding the power of influence, Pat served as a role model and leader. He advocated for many of his teammates during pivotal moments in their lives and has been involved in many community advancement initiatives. Alongside his wife Beth, Pat founded Team Terrell to help promote and fundraise for the American Diabetes Association. He also served as a regional spokesman for United Way and was honored as an NFL Player representative for the United Negro College Fund. During his time as a pilot, Pat volunteered to transport hundreds of American and allied troops through the Middle East during Operation Iraqi Freedom. On top of that, Pat and Beth have poured countless hours into volunteering with local schools, educational programs, and park district programs.

It is an honor to bestow Pat with the Patriot Award for his exceptional service to our Nation. I thank him for all he has done.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of Mr. Alan Barry Carr of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, who peacefully passed away on June 8, 2025.

Alan was born on January 17, 1937, to James and Olive Carr. He attended the University of Maryland and the Virginia Polytechnic Institute for his bachelor's degree and master's degree. Alan later earned his Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics at Oklahoma State University. For many years, he worked as a congressional researcher for the Department of Agriculture and the Library of Congress. Afterwards, Alan taught Economics at Texas A&M University and spent some time teaching in Armenia. In addition to his passion for teaching, Alan enjoyed hunting, gardening, taking care of his dogs, and telling good stories to those around him.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capitol in recognition of Alan's wonderful life and legacy. He will be dearly missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and service of Mrs. Rosemary Margo Enrico of Dallas, Texas, who peacefully passed away on May 6, 2025.

Rosemary was born on September 28, 1944, in Chisholm, Minnesota, to Andrew and Rose Margo. She graduated from Marquette University in 1967 with a bachelor's degree in marketing. For 48 years, she was married to her childhood sweetheart, Roger Anthony Enrico, and they raised a large family with many children. Rosemary was a devout Catholic, schoolteacher, and generous philanthropist. Along with Roger, they founded the nonprofit Roger and Rosemary Enrico Foundation to support Catholic initiatives and provide life-changing scholarships to many economically disadvantaged students in North Texas.

In her free time, Rosemary was passionate about the arts and was an avid traveler. She enjoyed spending time with her family and traveling around the world with Roger. I am deeply saddened to hear of Rosemary's passing, as she brought compassion, kindness, and warmth with her presence wherever she went. The incredible impact she has made on our community will be remembered and felt for many years to come.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capitol in recognition of Rosemary's life and contributions to North Texas. She will be dearly missed by her friends, family, and all who knew her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Mrs. Barbara Leonard Hayes of Carrollton, Texas, who peacefully passed away on April 6, 2025.

Barbara was born on July 8, 1937, in Tom, Oklahoma and was adopted by John and Lena Noll Leonard. She attended Durant High School and graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1958, where she earned her bachelor's degree in education. Barbara began her career as a Flight Attendant for American Airlines out of Chicago, where she was recognized in the World Book Encyclopedia for her unique, vintage title of ``Airline Stewardess.'' Soon after, she moved to Sherman to begin teaching elementary education at Sherman ISD. On June 11, 1960, Barbara married the love of her life, Stanley Joe Hayes, in Durant, Oklahoma. Together, they raised two children and have many more grandchildren.

In addition to her critical work as an educator, Barbara was involved in many community initiatives throughout North Texas. She served as the PTA President at Wakefield Elementary, Cub Scout leader and Den Mother, and a member of many civic and philanthropic organizations. Barbara was also very passionate about rescuing animals, traveling, and most importantly, trusting God. She was a devoted woman of faith and a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Sherman, now the Covenant Presbyterian Church. The kindness, joy, and warmth that Barbara brought with her presence will always be remembered by her loved ones.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capitol in recognition of Barbara's life and contributions to North Texas. She will be dearly missed by her friends, family, and all who knew her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Carmen Roberts of Celina, Texas, and present her with the Congressional Patriot Award. Carmen has dedicated herself to faithfully serving our community.

Carmen was born in Chihuahua, Mexico, and immigrated to the United States at a young age. She attended school in Rosemead, California, and became a naturalized citizen at 18 years old. Carmen began her career as a night attendant for American Airlines and worked as a ticket office manager. She co-founded Steve Roberts Custom Builders, a very successful home design and construction company based in North Texas. Carmen earned her license in real estate and has worked for over two decades as a realtor for Ebby Halliday specializing in luxury homes.

In addition to her real estate portfolio, Carmen has served as the Mayor Pro Tempore of Celina and as a member of the Celina City Council and Celina Economic Development Corporation Board. For her outstanding contributions, Carmen has received the City of Celina's Distinguished Public Service Award, the Governor's Recognition Award, and the State of Texas' Certificate of Appreciation. I am pleased to commend Carmen for her dedication to serving and representing the City of Celina with distinction, and I wish her continued success for many years to come.

It is an honor to bestow Cannen with the Patriot Award for her exceptional service to the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Andy ``Hop'' Hopkins of Celina, Texas, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Andy has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community and country.

Andy was born in Columbus, Ohio, and he attended Plano Senior High School. After graduating in 1983, he joined the United States Army as an infantryman, where he demonstrated discipline, leadership, and duty to serving our nation. After his Army service, Andy built and managed several successful businesses, including a national natural products distribution company and one of the top-performing UPS franchise in North Texas. He was also elected to the Celina City Council in 2015, where his leadership as Mayor Pro Tempore and councilmember has played a critical role in the city's rapid economic growth and development.

In addition to his public service, Andy is very involved in the North Texas community. He is a founding member and the current Commander of American Legion Post 145 in Celina and serves on the Board of Directors for the Celina Chamber of Commerce, Rodeo Celina, and the Celina Local Business Alliance. Andy regularly attends the First United Methodist church in Celina and previously served on the church council. For his remarkable contributions to the City of Celina, Andy has received the 2022 Business of the Year

award from the Greater Celina Chamber of Commerce. I am pleased to recognize him today for a lifetime of public service and continued commitment to advancing our community and nation.

It is an honor to bestow Andy with the Patriot Award for his exceptional service to the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Walter Eugene Hunter of Celina, Texas, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Walter has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community and country.

As a young man, Walter was a decorated Boy Scout and Cub Scout leader and worked as a messenger boy for Western Union. During the Second World War, he heeded the call to defend our nation after witnessing the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, and he proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Walter served in combat as a Field Communications Specialist during the grueling battles of Guadalcanal, Bougainville, and Green Island, in which he was awarded a Unit Citation for his meritorious actions. He later worked in aviation electronics in North Carolina before being honorably discharged in 1945. During the conflict in Korea, Walter was also briefly called back to duty from the Reserves.

After his service, Walter has continued to be an upstanding American citizen, patriot, and family man. He met his late wife Irene, a US Army cadet nurse, and they were happily married for a remarkable 77 years. Together, they had three daughters and many more grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Walter earned his doctorate degree from the University of Colorado and guided the doctoral research of 65 graduate students at the University of Missouri. For his excellent teaching abilities and his students' achievements, Walter received cash awards from the American Chemical Society, which he used to purchase science books for the school library. He also raised thousands of dollars to install an FM radio station for students interested in learning radio communications. At the young age of 103, Walter frequently travels across the country to spend time with his family and remains passionate about learning. In his free time, Walter studies science and Chaos theory. I am grateful for Walter's extensive contributions to our community and country, and I wish him good health for many years to come.

It is an honor to bestow Walter with the Patriot Award for his exceptional service to the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Punk Carter of Celina, Texas, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Punk has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community.

Originally from Sherman, Texas, Punk moved with his family to Celina and graduated from high school there in 1965. From a young age, he worked on a ranch to train cutting horses and participated in numerous cutting horse competitions. Punk is currently a director at large for the National Cutting Horse Association, where he previously served as an executive board member and president. For his outstanding contributions to the cutting horse industry, Punk was inducted into the National Cutting Horse Members Hall of Fame and the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. He was also voted as Celina's Citizen of the Year in 2010 and given the Key to the City in 2022.

In addition, Punk is passionate about helping individuals of all ages from around the world learn about equines, as they are incredible companions. He serves as a 4A judge at cutting competitions and has earned numerous trophies and awards over the years for his expertise and skill in the cutting horse profession. Punk has also won a state cutting horse event alongside his daughter on Father's Day, making them the first father and daughter champion duo on that special occasion. I am pleased to recognize Punk for his dedication to serving our community and being an upstanding leader to those around him.

It is an honor to bestow Punk with the Patriot Award for his exceptional service to the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Catherine ``Trinka'' Taylor of Dallas, Texas and present her with the Congressional Patriot Award. Trinka has dedicated herself to faithfully serving our community.

A sixth-generation Texan, Trinka was born in Dallas, Texas, and grew up in Houston. She attended Rice University before transferring to the prestigious Cornell University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in architecture. Her passion for architectural design pushed her to pursue opportunities in some of our most storied cities like New York City, Boston, and Dallas. No matter where she lived, her dedication to upholding conservative values never wavered. For many decades, Trinka served in leadership roles as an Election Judge, Precinct Chairman, executive committee member of Southern Methodist University, board member of the Southwestern Medical Foundation, and as President of the Park Cities Republican Women.

Trinka has continued to stay involved in our community as a member of the Texas Federation of Republican Women, Dallas County Republican Executive Committee, and the Dallas County Council of Republican Women. Her passion for freedom, opportunity, patriotism, and our nation's values has pushed her to drive us forward to a better tomorrow. For her outstanding contributions to the Republican Party, Trinka received the Betty Marquis Award and was selected by former Texas Governor George W. Bush to serve on the Nominations Committee for the Governor's Awards for Excellence in Arts, Humanities, and Science. She also served as a commissioner of the Texas Commission of the Arts from 1998 to 2002. In her free time, Trinka enjoys fly fishing, Canoeing, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. She is a devoted woman of faith and attends Saint Michaels and All Angels Episcopal Church in Dallas. Trinka has truly made an incredible impact on the world around us, and I wish her continued success for many years to come.

It is an honor to bestow my friend Trinka with the Patriot Award for her exceptional service to the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Kay Akin of Decatur, Texas, and present her with the Congressional Patriot Award. Kay has dedicated herself to faithfully serving our community.

Kay is originally from Brownwood, Texas, and she earned her bachelor's degree in education from East Texas A&M University. She began her extensive teaching career in 1987 as an elementary school teacher for fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students. Since 1972, she has also been married to her high school sweetheart, Sheriff Lane Akin, and they raised several children and have many more grandchildren.

After retiring early from teaching, Kay has continued to remain involved in our community through numerous initiatives. She is a longtime volunteer with the Helping Hands program to provide clothing for those in need in the Wise County community, as well as helping to keep our roads clean from litter. Moreover, Kay is a member of the Decatur Church of Christ and has taught Sunday School for many years. As a result of her efforts to advance student learning and achievement, she

has been recognized as Bible School Teacher of the Year and Rookie of the Year at Lindale Elementary School. A devoted follower of Jesus, Kay is most proud of supporting Sheriff Lane's career as a public servant and being a role model for her children and grandchildren. I am pleased to commend Kay for her distinguished career as an educator for our youth, and I wish her continued success.

It is an honor to bestow Kay with the Patriot Award for her exceptional service to the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Ralph O'Dell of Celina, Texas, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Ralph has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community and country.

Ralph is a veteran of the Second World War and served with the United States Army from 1943 to 1946. He participated in the South Pacific campaign, and after being honorably discharged, he joined the Army Reserves in 1948 where he remained until 1985. For his distinguished service, Ralph has received the Meritorious Service Medal, the Southern Philippine Islands Campaign with one Bronze Star, the Philippine Liberation Medal and Ribbon with one bronze Star, and many more commendations.

In addition to his military service, Ralph has continued to be a fierce advocate for American values and a dedicated community volunteer. He served as the President of Oak Cliff Junior Chamber of Commerce and was a member of Rotary International, the Texas Silver- Haired Legislature, the Reserve Officers Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the American Legion. Ralph also assisted with Salvation Army and Red Cross drives to support those in need. As a result of his outstanding work, he was recognized as Celina's Citizen of the Year several times and received the Key to the City from Celina's mayor. Moreover, the Ralph O'Dell Senior Center in Celina has been established in recognition of Ralph's decades of service as a senior center coordinator. He is also a man of faith, and he regularly attends First Methodist Church in Celina. I am pleased to recognize Ralph today for being an upstanding American patriot and his

ongoing pursuit for freedom, strength, and integrity in our Nation.

It is an honor to bestow Ralph with the Patriot Award for his exceptional service to the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Nate Pike of Prosper, Texas, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Nate has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community.

A native of Denison, Texas, Nate attended Denison High School and graduated from Baylor University in 2003 with his Bachelor of Business Administration. He began his career out of college as a financial advisor and sales representative for multiple firms. In 2014, Nate joined the Utter, Pike, & Dobbs Private Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, where he currently serves as a partner and managing director. In addition to his work in the financial industry, he was elected to serve as the mayor of Anna, Texas, in which his robust leadership transformed the city into one of the fastest growing regions in Texas and the country.

Currently, Nate is the President of the Anna Education Foundation and Treasurer of CASA of Grayson County. He previously served as the President of numerous advocacy organizations, including Grayson County Children's Advocacy Center, the Anna Community Development Corporation, and the Grayson Collin Municipal Alliance. For his important contributions, Nate was named the Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary International and listed in the Dallas Business Journal and Grayson County's Top 40 Under 40 Business Professionals. He was also named Citizen of the Year in 2024 by the Anna Chamber of Commerce. I am pleased to recognize Nate today for a lifetime of servant leadership, and I wish him continued success.

It is an honor to bestow Nate with the Patriot Award for his exceptional service to the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Mark Metdker of Celina, Texas, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Mark has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community.

A native of Dallas, Mark graduated from Lewisville High School in 1975 as a star football and track athlete. He began his career working for the McKinney Fire Department and in the oilfield industry. From 1983 to 2007, Mark worked for the Addison Fire Department before being selected to serve as the Assistant Fire Chief and Fire Marshal for the Celina Fire Department in 2008. He served in a variety of roles, including firefighter, arson investigator, and fire prevention captain. As a result of his contributions to the city and exceptional public service abilities, Mark attained the positions of Fire Chief, Chief of Police, and Director of Public Safety, before retiring in November 2023.

In addition to his public service, Mark has participated in many community service initiatives throughout North Texas. He previously served as a member of Collin College's Fire Science Program steering committee and the North Texas Council of Governments 911 Communications Commission. Moreover, Mark is a member of the Texas Fire Chiefs Association, Texas Police Chiefs Association, Collin County Fire Chiefs Association, Denton County Fire Chiefs Association, and the National Fire Protection Agency. For his exceptional work, he has earned two Meritorious Service awards, the Career Achievement Medal, the City Builder award, and the Agency Best Practices award from the Celina Police Department and Fire Department. I would like to thank Mark for a lifetime of public service and dedication to our community.

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