Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Master Sergeant Tracy Brewster of Rowlett, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. MSgt Brewster honorably served in the United States Air Force.

MSgt Brewster joined the Air Force in June 1982. Over the next two decades, he served as an Air Cargo Specialist and Air Transportation Craftsman to ensure that our troops were safely and efficiently resupplied around the world. MSgt Brewster completed two tours in South Korea and deployed in support of Operation Southern Watch and Enduring Freedom. For his meritorious service, MSgt Brewster received the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, and many more awards.

After he retired from the Air Force in 2003, MSgt Brewster has continued to serve our community in numerous ways. For many years, he worked in supervisory positions at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and concluded his public service career as an Immigration Services Analyst. In this role, MSgt Brewster led efforts to investigate and prevent immigration fraud. He is also a longtime contributor to charitable initiatives to support disabled veterans, churches, museums, and youth athletic programs across North Texas. Most importantly, MSgt Brewster is a devoted husband and father to two children and two grandchildren. I commend him for his selfless service and dedication to serving our great Nation.

I am honored to represent MSgt Brewster in Texas' 4th Congressional district. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Captain Jackie King ``Jack'' Ashmore of Reno, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Capt. Ashmore honorably served in the United States Navy during the Korean War and Vietnam War.

As a young man, Capt. Ashmore sought to follow in his family's footsteps and serve his country. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1947 after graduating from Paris High School and was determined to pursue a military career that included his longtime passion for aviation. In 1950, Capt. Ashmore completed aviation school and later participated in numerous combat flights over Korea while stationed in the Sea of Japan. During the Vietnam War, he took part in the 1968 Tet Offensive and flew 254 combat missions. For his outstanding service, Capt. Ashmore received numerous awards, including the Silver Star, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, two Bronze Stars, the Legion of Merit, and many more. His final duties as a naval officer was with the Joint Chiefs of Staff, where he briefed senior elected officials on national security matters.

After retiring in 1973, Capt. Ashmore continued to fly planes as a community volunteer and even taught friends and family how to fly. He also serves as the treasurer for the Paris Junior College Friends and Alumni Board, a position he has held for over twenty years. In recognition of Capt. Ashmore's distinguished career and selfless service, he received the Distinguished Student Award from Paris High School and a position on Paris Junior College's Wall of Honor. He is a man of faith and serves as a lay reader at his episcopal church. Above all, Capt. Ashmore is a devoted husband of over 57 years and compassionate friend to all who know him.

I am honored to represent Capt. Ashmore in Texas' 4th Congressional district. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Petty Officer Joanne Schumm of Frisco, Texas, and award her a Congressional Veteran Commendation. CPO Schumm honorably served in the United States Navy.

From a young age, CPO Schumm knew she wanted to serve our Nation and contribute to a greater cause. From 1978 to 1983, she served as a Cryptologic Technician and Intelligence Specialist in the Navy to provide timely communications and intelligence briefs for Commanders. CPO Schumm later joined the Navy Reserves and completed her military service in 2002. For her outstanding service, she was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with gold star, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Naval Reserve Meritorious Service Medal with two bronze stars, and many more.

After retiring from the Navy, CPO Schumm has continued to be an active member of our community to advocate for important issues. She serves as the Commander of American Legion Post 178 and is a member of a military affinity group with State Farm Insurance. In these roles, she works diligently to bring awareness to veteran issues and support fellow veterans in need. Moreover, CPO Schumm works closely with the Frisco Veterans Advisory Committee to help ensure that the City of Frisco is always welcoming and ready to support all veterans. I am proud of her contributions to our community and her dedication to serving our great Nation.

I am honored to represent CPO Schumm in Texas' 4th Congressional district. It is a pleasure to award her the Congressional Veteran Commendation for her service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Captain Stanley Bernard Scott of Heath, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Capt. Scott honorably served in the United States Marine Corps and the United States Navy.

Capt. Scott joined the Marine Corps in 1952, where he served as a motor vehicle operator and rose up the ranks to become a Sergeant. He served for eight years in the Marines, but felt that God called upon him to return to service once more. In 1967, Capt. Scott joined the Navy during the Vietnam War and served as a Chaplain in combat. His military service continued for many years through

Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield. For his outstanding service, Capt. Scott received the Purple Heart with one star, the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal with two gold stars, and many more awards.

In 1993, Capt. Scott retired from military service, but he has continued to make a positive impact on the world around him. He served as an Assistant Pastor at his Methodist Church and led weekly Bible studies for over 25 years. Additionally, he led mission trips to India in support of several ministries and helps homeschool his grandchildren and great grandchildren. I am proud of Capt. Scott's contributions to our community and his dedication to serving our great Nation.

I am honored to represent Capt. Scott in Texas' 4th Congressional district. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Warrant Officer 3 Clarence Leadore ``CJ'' Jorif of Rockwall, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. CW3 Jorif honorably served in the United States Army.

CW3 Jorif joined the Army in 1983, where he served as a military policeman and special agent for criminal investigations. He was inspired to join to serve his country and make a difference in the lives of those around him. As a result of his hard work and leadership, CW3 Jorif quickly rose up the ranks to become a Staff Sergeant in the Military Police Corps within four years. He was deployed to Honduras, Panama, and the Middle East as part of Operation Just Cause and Operation Desert Storm. As a Warrant Officer, CW3 Jorif successfully performed protective missions for the Secretary of Defense and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during wartime and peacetime without any incidents. For his outstanding service, CW3 Jorif received the Army

Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Army Achievement Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Southwest Asia Service Medal with bronze star, and many more awards.

After retiring from the Army Reserves in 2003, CW3 Jorif has continued to be an active member of our community and dedicated law enforcement officer. From 1996 to 2016, he served as a Senior Special Agent for the U.S. Secret Service to provide critical protections for the President, Vice President, and other top officials from foreign nations. CW3 Jorif currently serves as a Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Rockwall. On top of his public service career, he is involved in numerous volunteer activities throughout North Texas to promote youth development and advocate for senior citizens. I am proud of CW3 Jorif's contributions to our community and his dedication to serving our great Nation.

I am honored to represent CW3 Jorif in Texas' 4th Congressional district. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sergeant First Class Clayton McGraw of Sulphur Springs, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. SFC McGraw honorably served in the United States Army during the Korean War.

During the Korean War, SFC McGraw was drafted into the Army. In one incident, he successfully rescued a fellow soldier from drowning during a dangerous river crossing and was recognized for his quick thinking and bravery. For distinguishing himself through an act of heroism, SFC McGraw was awarded the Soldier's Medal.

After retiring from the Army, SFC McGraw continued to make a positive impact in our community. He is the founder and Chairman of the Hopkins County Veterans Memorial Committee to advocate for and support veterans across North Texas. SFC McGraw also served for eight years on the Sulphur Springs Planning and Zoning Board and was a member of the First Baptist mission team in Longview, Texas. His outstanding leadership has undoubtedly made a difference in the lives of so many people throughout the years. I am proud of SFC McGraw's contributions to our community and his dedication to serving our great Nation.

I am honored to represent SFC McGraw in Texas' 4th Congressional district. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Colonel Gerald Ray ``Chappie'' Nelson of Frisco, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. LTC Nelson honorably served in the United States Army.

As a young man, LTC Nelson was inspired to serve our country and the Lord, and he joined the Army in 1995. He served as a Chaplain during the Global War on Terror and oversaw other Chaplains to ensure all soldiers' spiritual needs were met. For his outstanding service, LTC Nelson received the Legion of Merit, the Southwest Asia Service Medal with three bronze stars, the Army Commendation Medal, and many more awards.

After retiring from the Army in 2008, LTC Nelson has continued to be an active member of our community. He has presided over events as a chaplain for the Frisco Gold Star Family Monument and served as a member of the Frisco Veteran Advisory Council. LTC Nelson also serves on Frisco Lakes Veterans' leadership team to assist homeless veterans and provide scholarships for students throughout North Texas. Over the past four years, he has managed a food bank in Little Elm to help feed families in need. I am proud of LTC Nelson's contributions to our community and his dedication to serving our great Nation.

I am honored to represent LTC Nelson in Texas' 4th Congressional district. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Staff Sergeant Preston Bernard Rich of Frisco, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. SSgt Rich honorably served in the United States Air Force during the Gulf War.

SSgt Rich joined the Air Force in July 1986, where he was responsible for conducting Personnel Management during Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield. For his meritorious service, he received the Air Force Longevity Award with one device, the Southwest Asia Service Medal with one device, the Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon with one device, and many more awards.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1997, SSgt Rich has continued to make a positive impact in our community. Since 2013, he has served as Quartermaster for Frisco Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8273. In this role, he leads efforts to improve veteran outreach and support veterans no matter where they are located. SSgt Rich has gone above and beyond his duties to ensure that no veteran is left behind during their time of need. He is also a devoted father and outstanding educator and speaker on the topic of cybersecurity. His outstanding leadership and guidance has helped many veterans, students, and peers improve their lives and reach their full potential. I am proud of SSgt Rich's contributions to our community and his dedication to serving our great Nation.

I am honored to represent SSgt Rich in Texas' 4th Congressional district. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize First Lieutenant Corbett Howard of Celina, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. 1LT Howard honorably served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

As a young man, 1LT Howard was inspired to follow in his family's footsteps and serve his country. In December 1968, he commissioned into the U.S. Army serving in Military Intelligence. After completing Combat Intelligence school, 1LT Howard deployed to Vietnam in the following year and served as an Intelligence Officer in Kien Giang Province. He was one of thirty four American advisors to the South Vietnamese Army and was responsible for training its troops. During the war, he also flew 108 combat missions in a Huey helicopter and participated in numerous Swift boat operations against the enemy. For his outstanding service, 1LT Howard was awarded the Bronze Star, the Air Medal, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with bronze star.

After he retired from military service in 1970, 1LT Howard has continued to be an active member of our community through his public service and volunteer efforts. Since 2012, he has served as a board member for the Military Warriors Support Foundation to help provide homes to wounded veterans and Gold Star families. Under 1LT Howard's exceptional leadership, they have given over 930 homes and 175 vehicles for veterans in need. Moreover, he has helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars for the organization to support veterans and ensure they can keep their homes for many years to come. I am proud of 1LT Howard's contributions to our community and his dedication to serving our great Nation.

I am honored to represent 1LT Howard in Texas' 4th Congressional district. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Mrs. Nancy Elizabeth

DeWitt of Frisco, Texas, who peacefully passed away on June 26, 2024.

Mrs. DeWitt was born on April 11, 1936, in Evergreen Park, Illinois to Thomas and Verena Colvin. She grew up with five other siblings in Downers Grove, where she enjoyed bike riding, ice skating, and staying at her family's lake cottage in Wisconsin. In 1953, Mrs. DeWitt graduated from Downers Grove North High School and began working as a secretary for Swift & Co. in Chicago. This is where she met the love of her life, Dale, and the two married just four years later. Together, they traveled across the country for work and raised six amazing children. During this time, Mrs. DeWitt worked at a bowling league and bridge club while volunteering at her children's Catholic schools. Along with her best friend Robyn, she co-founded the Bent Tree Travel agency and took advantage of travel perks to take her family on fantastic vacations around the world.

After retirement, the DeWitts settled in Frisco Lakes. Mrs. DeWitt was an active member of our community, and she spent many hours volunteering with the Republican Conservative Coalition to advocate for her values and support conservative candidates for office. Throughout her life, Mrs. DeWitt was most proud of having raised a wonderful family and spending time with loved ones. In her free time, she enjoyed singing along to Elvis Presley and Engelbert Humperdinck, her two favorite artists. Moreover, Mrs. DeWitt had a great sense of humor and always had a clever joke ready to bring laughs to those around her. I am saddened to hear of her passing, as her presence brought joy and warmth wherever she went.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our nation's Capitol to honor Mrs. DeWitt's wonderful life and contributions to our community. She will be dearly missed by her friends, family, and all who knew her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Lori Stevens of Rockwall, Texas. Lori has served our community through her work as the Founder and Executive Director of Patriot PAWS Service Dogs.

For over four decades, Lori has specialized in dog training and sought to make a difference in the lives of those in need. Prior to

founding Patriot PAWS, she became certified in professional dog training at the Karen Pryor Academy and later owned Country K9 Academy. In 2005, Lori was approached by disabled veterans at the Dallas VA hospital, who requested her assistance with training service animals. In the following year, she established Patriot PAWS, a nonprofit organization that trains and provides highly skilled service dogs at no cost to veterans with physical disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, and post-traumatic stress. Due to Lori's passion and visionary leadership, Patriot PAWS has provided over 600 service dogs to wounded veterans nationwide. These incredible service dogs have helped veterans meet their needs, improve their quality of life, and spend time with a faithful companion.

As a result of her outstanding contributions to the service dog industry, Lori has received numerous awards, including the Champion of Freedom Award by the Texas Federation of Republican Women, the Texas Animal Hall of Fame Award, and the Governor's Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award. In November 2023, Lori was recognized by Governor Greg Abbott and presented with the prestigious Yellow Rose of Texas Commission award, the highest award bestowed on women by the Texas governor. I am proud of the work that Patriot PAWS has accomplished for our veterans, and I know Lori will continue to make a positive impact on the world around us for many years to come.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our nation's Capitol in recognition of Lori's exceptional contributions to the people of North Texas. I thank her for all she has done.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the Grand Opening of the Home2 Suites by Hilton in Paris, Texas.

The Hilton brand is a longstanding leader in the world of hospitality, and this new addition to Paris, Texas, is no exception. The Home2 Suites, which opened its doors on April 1st, 2024, represents a remarkable achievement and a profound personal milestone for the Pankaj family.

As the Mayor of Paris and a second-generation Hilton franchisee, Mihir ``Mark'' Pankaj has proudly followed in the footsteps of his father, Pankaj ``Greg'' Magan, who established the Hampton Inn by Hilton here in Paris 24 years ago. Greg's enduring legacy as a five- time oral cancer survivor and unwavering pillar of strength has been a source of inspiration and perseverance for his family. The Home2 Suites project is the result of faithful collaboration between father and son, and it is the pinnacle of the Pankaj family's continued dedication and hard work.

It is the first Hilton hotel to be equipped with a groundbreaking geothermal HVAC system to improve environmental sustainability and hospitality for guests. Additionally, the Home2 Suites boasts a full bar and coffee shop, Paris Coffee Co., Obsidian Craft Cocktail Bar, and a 6,000 square foot Conference and Event Center, enhancing the guest experience and contributing to our community's vibrancy. Today, we celebrate not just the opening of a hotel, but a lifetime of innovation, resilience, and family tradition.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capitol in honor of this historic occasion. Congratulations to Mark and his family, and I wish them the very best.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Detective Dale Ingram of Van Alstyne, Texas. Detective Ingram has dedicated himself to faithfully serving and protecting our community.

Since 1978, Detective Ingram has served as a law enforcement officer in North Texas. Throughout his 45 years in uniform, he has worked as a patrol officer, warrant officer, detective, and as a member of the North Texas Child Abuse Task Force. Currently, Detective Ingram works for the Van Alstyne Police Department. In his career, he has diligently fought to protect our children from harm and ensure our communities are safe. In May, Detective Ingram was tragically diagnosed with a late stage brain tumor, which has affected his quality of life. Despite this diagnosis, he has tirelessly fought to spend as much time with his family as possible.

When Detective Ingram's children went through his old files and keepsakes, they found that he had received countless exemplary reviews from superiors and commendations for his selfless service as a law enforcement officer. Some weren't written down, as they involved his actions in protecting the lives of children who did not have a voice. For decades, he has served North Texas with great pride and honor, unafraid of those who wish to do harm. Outside of the uniform, Detective Ingram is a loving husband, father, and grandfather to thirteen grandchildren. I am confident that he will fully triumph in the battle against cancer, and I wish him a complete recovery so that he may spend many more years with his family.

I have requested the United States flag to be flown over out Nation's Capitol in recognition of Detective Ingram's extensive public service and dedication to the people of North Texas. May God Bless him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judy Thompson of Cooper, Texas, and present her with the Congressional Patriot Award. Judy has dedicated herself to faithfully serving our community.

Born in Paris, Texas, Judy graduated from the Cooper Schools in 1967, before graduating from East Texas State University with a double degree in French and English in 1970. She felt a calling for teaching and went back to school to earn a master's degree in education in 1980. Judy spent 41 years as a schoolteacher in the Cooper ISD, where she taught English, French, journalism, speech, drama, math, music, art, and physical education throughout every grade level. She also spent 38 years driving the school bus for students of the Cooper ISD. She received the Best-all-around student award in 1967 and is proud to have directed the State Championship winning Cooper High School One Act Play UIL in 1987.

Judy's commitment to public service and desire to leave a lasting positive impact in her community drives her to stay involved today. Currently, she serves as the Secretary and Treasurer of the Jim Chapman Lake Steering Committee and is encouraged by the vast potential of the lake. Judy is very active in the church, playing the piano for worship music since she was 16, and serving as the Minister of Music and Choir Director for 22 years. Today, she is a proud member of the worship team at New Hope Church in Cooper. I commend Judy for her dedicated service to the people of our community and wish her continued success for many years to come.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jim Chapman of Horseshoe Bay, Texas, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Jim has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community.

Growing up in Sulphur Springs, Jim graduated from Sulphur Springs High School in 1963. He then went on to obtain his bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Texas and earned his Juris Doctor degree from Southern Methodist University's Law School. Jim started his career as an attorney for six years, before being elected District Attorney for the 8th Judicial District of Texas in 1976, where he served 2 terms. He was then elected to Congress in 1985 through a special election, representing Texas' 1st congressional district for 6 terms. Throughout his time in Congress, he received the National Defense Achievement Award every year he served, and was recognized and endorsed by every teacher group, law enforcement group, the NRA, and many more. After retiring from Congress in 1997, Jim joined Bracewell & Patterson LLP and worked 15 years in the firm's D.C. and Austin office, co-chairing the Government Relations Group.

Jim's dedication to public service expands more than just public office. He served as Outside General Counsel for the Board of Hopkins County Memorial Hospital District, President of local United Way, and as Board Chairman and General Counsel for Peoples National Bank of Sulphur Springs. He's a proud member of 1st United Methodist Church, where he serves as chairman of the administrative board and as a Sunday school teacher for adult couples. I commend Jim for his dedicated service to the people of our community and wish him continued success for many years to come.

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