Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I rise to commend numerous exceptional leaders from Indiana who were honored as the Northwest Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame Class of 2017. While there were many nominees, this year's inductees include Joseph Mansueto, Raymundo Garcia, Karen Maravilla, Craig Dwight, Robert Johnson, Fair Oaks Farms, and Don Babcock. For their many contributions to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond, these honorees were recognized at the 10th Annual Induction Ceremony on Tuesday, May 16, 2017, at the Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana. Mitch Daniels, President of Purdue University and former Governor of Indiana, was the keynote speaker for the event.

Joe Mansueto is the founder and Executive Chairman of Morningstar Incorporated. Morningstar was initially created to educate individual investors, but it quickly became an asset to financial advisors and institutions. Under Joe's leadership, the company has become a global organization, managing 1.2 million retirement assets and advising up to 10.9 million individual investors, 300,000 plan sponsors, 250,000 investment advisors and more than 1,300 institutions. Morningstar secures $800 million in annual revenue, does business with 27 companies globally, and employs more than 4,500 people worldwide.

Raymundo Garcia and Karen Maravilla are the owners and operators of El Taco Real restaurant in Hammond, Indiana. In addition, Karen owns and operates Its Just Serendipity, a vintage shop in downtown Hammond. Throughout their twenty-one years together, Karen and Raymundo have shared a passion for entrepreneurship as well as a philanthropic spirit. The community of Hammond is very important to them, and they have worked hard to help revitalize parts of the city over the years. Their next project includes the purchase of three large properties in downtown Hammond that they will renovate and repurpose.

Craig Dwight is the Horizon Bancorp Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Under Craig's leadership, Horizon's total assets increased from $360 million to $3.1 billion in 2016. In addition, Horizon currently includes 59 branches and is one of the top largest banks in the state of Indiana, while ranking as the 342nd largest bank in the United States. Mr. Dwight's charitable efforts are to be admired and commended. Craig continues to give back to the community and has chaired numerous fundraising campaigns for many organizations, including the United Way of LaPorte County, the Martin Luther King Center, the Michigan City Education Fund, and the YMCA, to name a few.

Robert Johnson is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cimcor, which is based in Merrillville, Indiana. Cimcor is a global cybersecurity company that acts to keep information and servers protected and secure. Due to his hard work, strong leadership, and innovative mind, Robert Johnson has made Cimcor immensely successful. Customers include NASA, the United States Air Force, and the Chicago Stock Exchange, to name a few. In addition, Mr. Johnson enjoys giving back to the community of Northwest Indiana and serves on the advisory boards for Valparaiso University's Cyber Operations/IT Programs, Purdue University Northwest's Computer Technology Department, and Indiana University Northwest's Computer Information Sciences Program. Robert also serves as chairman of the board of directors of the Legacy Foundation, and he is a member of the board of directors for Methodist Hospitals.

The recipient of the Enterprise of the Year Award is Fair Oaks Farms. Fair Oaks Farms, located at the border of Jasper and Newton counties, is an incredibly successful working farm that is also an agricultural tourist destination. The farm brings in more than 600,000 visitors each year and is a popular field trip site for area schools. Fair Oaks continues to grow and expand its many attractions, including the pig adventure, pork education center, the farm-to-table Farmhouse Restaurant, the dairy adventure, and more. Fair Oaks is planning to add many new and innovative attractions that will appeal to a wide audience and give guests a reason to keep coming back, such as a beef cattle adventure and a poultry attraction that will demonstrate how 500,000 to 700,000 chickens are raised.

The recipient of the Partners in Progress Award is Don Babcock. Don is the Economic Development Director for NIPSCO and has been very successful in creating partnerships that bring in new industries, such as Alcoa Howmet, Hoist Liftruck, and Pratt Industries. Don also works tirelessly to build support for

many public works projects such as the South Shore commuter rail expansion and the Gary Airport runway improvement. Mr. Babcock is also President of the Michigan City Redevelopment Commission, which is currently working on a $20 million rejuvenation of the city. He has been called, ``an unsinkable cheerleader for the region.'' I am truly grateful for his enthusiasm and unwavering dedication to the community of Northwest Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these dedicated leaders upon their induction into the Northwest Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame. They are truly deserving of this honor, and for their exceptional leadership and commitment to the region and beyond, each of them is worthy of the highest praise.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and sincerity that I take this time to congratulate thirty individuals who took their oaths of citizenship on Friday, May 12, 2017. This memorable occasion, presided over by Magistrate Judge Andrew P. Rodovich, was held at the United States Courthouse and Federal Building in Hammond, Indiana.

America is a country founded by immigrants. From its beginning, settlers have come from countries around the world to the United States in search of better lives for their families. Oath ceremonies are a shining example of what is so great about the United States of America--that people from all over the world can come together and unite as members of a free, democratic nation. These individuals realize that nowhere else in the world offers a better opportunity for success than here in America.

On May 12, 2017, the following people, representing many nations throughout the world, took their oaths of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana: Xuezhe Wang, Jyoti Awasthi, Jovan Bujaroski, Karen Jazmin Flores Martinez, Amane Seid Djoubar, Rosa Brisco, Hilda Alvarez, Mario Alqraini, Emmanuel Chigozie Chijioke, Ayodeji Ekundayo, Thiola Makhiwa Moyo, Andy Dai Nguyen, Gerson David Plaza, Julio Rolando Plaza Jr., John Michael Prejmak, Bianca Yasmin Rafidia Vargas, Omar Awad Sobih, Alma Valencia, Jafar Ziad Thawabi, Klimentina Suleska, Maria Patricia Quezada, Josselyn Russell, Cece Mumbi Maina, Esther Galvez, Nguyet Phan, Milton Alexi Guerrero, Lowel Alabastro Recososa, Carl Recososa, Manuel Miranda, and Manuel Pena.

Although each individual has sought to become a citizen of the United States for his or her own reasons, be it for education, occupation, or to offer their loved ones better lives, each is inspired by the fact that the United States of America is, as Abraham Lincoln described it, a country ``. . . of the people, by the people, and for the people.'' They realize that the United States is truly a free nation. By seeking American citizenship, they have made the decision that they want to live in a place where, as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution, they can practice religion as they choose, speak their minds without fear of punishment, and assemble in peaceful protest should they choose to do so.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating these individuals who became citizens of the United States of America on May 12, 2017. They, too, are American citizens, and they, too, are guaranteed the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We, as a free and democratic nation, congratulate them and welcome them.

Mr. Speaker, it is with profound respect and admiration that I take this time to honor David Capp and to wish him well upon his retirement from his position as United States Attorney. For his relentless dedication to the people of Northwest Indiana and beyond, he is worthy of the highest praise. In honor of Dave's remarkable career, a celebratory event will be held on Wednesday, April 26, 2017, at the Hammond Federal Courthouse.

David Capp graduated from Lew Wallace High School in Gary, Indiana, in 1968. He went on to graduate with a Bachelor of the Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin--Madison in 1972 and earned his Juris Doctor degree from the Valparaiso University School of Law in 1977.

After completing his studies, Dave practiced law in the private sector for eight years before joining the United States Attorney's Office in 1985. From 1991 to 2007, he served as first assistant and was responsible for the daily operations of the office. During his career, Mr. Capp served as interim United States Attorney on multiple occasions under administrations of both political parties. This unique history is a testament to the esteem held for Mr. Capp's impeccable ethics and extraordinary talent. He also became the terrorism coordinator after the tragic events of September 11, 2001. On December 23, 2009, David Capp was nominated for United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana and was confirmed by the Senate on April 22, 2010.

Throughout his noteworthy career, Mr. Capp has been unwavering in his professional duties and in his pursuit of justice. Through his work, he has ensured the safety of those he has served, whether from violence, ethical lapses, the despoilment of our environment, or predatory economic activity. David's painstaking commitment to justice has been witnessed time and again. He has left our world a better place to live and given the people of our nation a future that is brighter because he walked among us.

Attorney Capp and I both grew up in the Glen Park neighborhood of Gary, Indiana. Although we did not know each other growing up, I have been blessed by David's friendship for nearly four decades. And not possessing his legal acumen, I am proud to note that he is the unquestioned national expert on fraud committed in uncontested elections.

In summary, I most respect David Capp's commitment to working hard and doing his best. I appreciate his judicious temperament, his dogged belief in doing the right thing--always--and his unshakable devotion to public service.

Mr. Speaker, David Capp is the best. His leadership has introduced permanent positive changes throughout Northern Indiana and our state. His vision has provided all of us with a guide to an improved and gentler future. His is a life we should all seek to emulate.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in paying tribute to an outstanding public servant and to wish him well upon his retirement. David Capp's impact on the region will be witnessed by generations to come, and for his many contributions, he is deserving of our gratitude.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and privilege to stand before you and my fellow colleagues today to recognize Mr. Phil ``Hambone'' Hamilton, as he celebrates the 50th Anniversary of his baseball and softball umpiring career. For his lifetime of devotion to the youth in the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond, through the sports of baseball and softball, Phil Hamilton is to be commended.

Phil's love for umpiring began when he became a baseball team manager while attending Lew Wallace High School in Gary, Indiana. He was given the opportunity to umpire at a practice game, and from that day forward, Phil discovered his passion and skill for officiating.

After high school, while working at U.S. Steel, Phil began umpiring for the Gary Little League, Gary Babe Ruth League, the National Softball Association, the Amateur Softball Association, and high school games throughout Northwest Indiana. Upon retiring from U.S. Steel, after thirty-six years of service, he began officiating full-time.

As an umpire, he has called many games featuring future major league baseball players LaTroy Hawkins, Kenny Lofton, Lloyd McClendon and Ron Kittle, to name a few. Players and coaches alike have observed Phil's enjoyment, pride, and passion for officiating. Consequently, he is highly respected for his dedication, knowledge, and the fairness he brings to the game.

In addition to umpiring, Phil volunteered at the College Football Hall of Fame at its previous location in South Bend, Indiana, where he enjoyed greeting visitors and assisting with assembling exhibits and displays. An avid sports enthusiast, Phil is a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs, Bears, and Blackhawks and spends the offseason rooting for and attending Notre Dame football games.

I must also add that I have known this wonderful gentleman since we started first grade together at Saint Mark's Grade School in Gary, Indiana. I have been blessed by his friendship my entire life and consider him a most generous soul who has served the youth of our state his entire life. His is a life we should all seek to emulate.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and all of our fellow colleagues to join me in commending Phil ``Hambone'' Hamilton for his 50 dedicated years of serving the youth of his community. I applaud his distinguished officiating career and passion for the game, and I am pleased to honor him today.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and sincerity that I take this time to congratulate fifteen individuals who took their oaths of citizenship on Friday, April 21, 2017. This memorable occasion, presided over by Magistrate Judge John E. Martin, was held at the United States Courthouse and Federal Building in Hammond, Indiana.

America is a country founded by immigrants. From its beginning, settlers have come from countries around the world to the United States in search of better lives for their families. Oath ceremonies are a shining example of what is so great about the United States of America--that people from all over the world can come together and unite as members of a free, democratic nation. These individuals realize that nowhere else in the world offers a better opportunity for success than here in America.

On April 21, 2017, the following people, representing many nations throughout the world, took their oaths of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana: Laura Yvette Tirado, Sibu Kudakkachira Mathew, Chiedozie Destiny Felix, Ofelia Juarez Hernandez, Servando Leal, Graciella Lopez- Strambu, Cecilia Mercy Mumbi Muchiri, Uyen Thi Thu Nguyen, Andy Dai Nguyen, Nakyung Nikkie Park, Yasmin Rahim, Alicia Ramirez, Hortencia Rodriguez, Hun Young Susan Yang, and Bahradine Abderhmane Zakaria.

Although each individual has sought to become a citizen of the United States for his or her own reasons, be it for education, occupation, or to offer their loved ones better lives, each is inspired by the fact that the United States of America is, as Abraham Lincoln described it, a country ``. . . of the people, by the people, and for the people.'' They realize that the United States is truly a free nation. By seeking American citizenship, they have made the decision that they want to live in a place where, as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution, they can practice religion as they choose, speak their minds without fear of punishment, and assemble in peaceful protest should they choose to do so.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating these individuals who became citizens of the United States of America on April 21, 2017. They, too, are American citizens, and they, too, are guaranteed the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We, as a free and democratic nation, congratulate them and welcome them.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I take this opportunity to honor Mr. Donald Tribby upon his retirement from United Steelworkers Local 1066. I have known Don for many years, and his dedication to his fellow union members is unparalleled. For nearly forty-eight years, he served in many capacities as a member and officer with Local 1066, and his contributions have helped to strengthen the organization and improve conditions for its members.

A third generation steelworker, Don Tribby's outstanding career in the steel industry began on September 27, 1968, as a motor inspector apprentice and journeyman, a position he would hold for the next ten years. Don then spent the remainder of his time at United States (U.S.) Steel as a millwright apprentice and journeyman, where he excelled in his trade and proved to be an exceptional model for his fellow steelworkers to emulate. While employed at U.S. Steel, Don became active in Local 1066, first part-time as a griever, then full-time as Financial Secretary in 2003. In 2008, he also took on the role of Benefits Coordinator, and he remained in both capacities until his retirement in August of last year.

Mr. Tribby has worked tirelessly to make his employer one of the most efficient producers of steel in the world. Simultaneously, he has committed his life to ensuring the value of human labor is recognized. He was meticulous in making sure that his colleagues and those he was responsible for were provided a safe work environment and that their wages were commensurate with their value to the company.

While Don has been a loyal servant and colleague for Local 1066, his greatest source of pride is his loving family. Don wed his beloved wife, Barbara, on July 25, 1981, and the couple has spent the past thirty-five years by each other's side. Don and Barbara are the proud parents of two sons, David and Michael.

I am proud that Don Tribby is my friend, and I cannot thank him enough for all he has done for me over the years. I am even more grateful for what he has done for so many for so long, strangers and friends alike.

Mr. Speaker, Donald Tribby has been a dedicated member and officer with United Steelworkers Local 1066 for nearly half a century and served and worked beside his fellow union members with distinction. At this time, I ask that you and all of my distinguished colleagues join me in wishing Don the best upon his retirement and commending him for his lifetime of dedicated service.

Mr. Speaker, on April 3, 2017, and April 4, 2017, I was absent from the House and missed Roll Call Votes 209 through 216.

Had I been present for Roll Call Vote 209, on passage of H. Res. 92, I would have voted Yes.

Had I been present for Roll Call Vote 210, on passage of H.R. 479, I would have voted Yes.

Had I been present for Roll Call Vote 211, on ordering the previous question, I would have voted No.

Had I been present for Roll Call Vote 212, on agreeing to H. Res. 241, I would have voted No.

Had I been present for Roll Call Vote 213, on ordering the previous question, I would have voted No.

Had I been present for Roll Call Vote 214, on agreeing to H. Res. 240, I would have voted No.

Had I been present for Roll Call Vote 215, on the motion to recommit H.R. 1343, I would have voted Yes.

Had I been present for Roll Call Vote 216, on passage of H.R. 1343, I would have voted No.

Mr. Speaker, on March 27, 2017, I was absent from the House and missed roll call votes 195 through 196.

Had I been present for roll call 195, a vote on H.R. 1117, a measure to require the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to submit a report regarding certain plans regarding assistance to applicants and grantees during the response to an emergency or disaster, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Had I been present for roll call 196, a vote on H.R. 654, The Pacific Northwest Earthquake Preparedness Act of 2017, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the rule and the underlying legislation.

I believe that the purpose of any healthcare legislation should be to improve the well-being of our Nation's citizens and to allow for access to quality and affordable health care for all. I think, particularly, the gentlemen from Massachusetts and Florida ably describe why today's legislation fails those tests. I would add that it will also jeopardize the healthcare coverage of over 429,000 Hoosiers currently enrolled in Indiana's expansion of Medicaid, the Healthy Indiana Plan.

Further, I believe it is disingenuous that, if this bill is successful, the House will have pushed numerous adverse consequences until after the next congressional election.

Congress should work to improve the Affordable Care Act. Congress should work to ensure affordable pharmaceutical products. Congress should act for the health concerns still facing ordinary Americans. But today's legislation does no such thing.

I find it unacceptable, and I urge my colleagues to oppose the legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the American Health Care Act.

I believe that the purpose of any health care legislation should be to improve the health and well-being of our nation's citizens, and to allow for access to quality and affordable health care for all.

That is why in the 111th Congress I was proud to support the Affordable Care Act. As a result of this landmark legislation, 19 million people in the United States now have health insurance coverage who did not before, and over nine-in-ten individuals in my home state of Indiana now have health insurance.

Regretfully, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, the legislation we are considering today will leave approximately 14 million more Americans without health care insurance by 2018, and this number will continue to rise to an estimated 24 million by 2026.

I am especially concerned that the American Health Care Act will jeopardize the health care coverage of the over 429,000 Hoosiers currently enrolled in Indiana's expansion of Medicaid, also known as the Healthy Indiana Plan.

Further, I believe it is especially disingenuous that if this bill passes today, this institution will have pushed the financial cuts to programs like the Healthy Indiana Plan conveniently until after the next congressional election.

The Act before us also would negatively impact the health of millions of women and men who receive the medical services provided by Planned Parenthood. Additionally, it would not improve the well-being of our nation's elderly by allowing providers to charge older enrollees up to five times as much as younger individuals.

Finally, I would note with great concern that a provision was just added to the American Health Care Act today that would remove the requirement that insurers cover life-saving, essential health benefits, including maternal and pediatric services, rehabilitative therapy, and mental health and substance abuse treatment.

Congress should work to improve the Affordable Care Act and address important health concerns facing ordinary Americans, such as the rising cost of prescription drugs. But today's bill does no such thing.

It is unacceptable and I urge my colleagues to oppose this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to begin by congratulating Chairman Frelinghuysen on bringing his first full bill to the House floor as chairman of the Appropriations Committee. I have greatly appreciated his friendship and steady leadership of the Defense Subcommittee.

Further, I also thank our new subcommittee chairwoman, Kay Granger. She has been a great partner in completing the work on the fiscal year 2017 conference report, and I look forward to working with her as we proceed.

Finally, I thank the members of the subcommittee and our extraordinary staff for their wisdom and for their long hours that they have logged in putting this product together.

The chairman has well described H.R. 1301. I would add that this bill includes strong positions countering Russian aggression, building partnership capacity, and supporting readiness. Because it is a product of bipartisan negotiation, this is a good bill, and I intend to support it.

Despite my support for this legislation, I am extremely troubled that we are still working on the fiscal year 2017 Defense bill 5 months and 8 days into the fiscal year.

For nearly 6 months, the Department of Defense has been operating under two separate continuing resolutions, which wastes the time of people's lives and leads to inefficiencies in spending. I would emphasize this is not the fault of the committee. All that has been absent is the lack of political will on behalf of the majority party.

Even more disconcerting is the fact that the Defense Appropriations Act is just one of 11 fiscal year 2017 appropriations bills that need to be completed by the end of next month. There is no excuse for them remaining unfinished. The investments made through these bills are vital to so many in our country, and they need equal attention from Congress and the administration.

It is imperative that we strive every day to prioritize keeping America safe and supporting our brave servicemembers, but we must also prioritize educating our workforce, making improvements in public health, in science, and in our economic and transportation infrastructure.

If we neglect these investments in our future and in the well-being and success of current families and future generations, then I am deeply concerned that we will not have a country worth defending.

Confounding a confused fiscal situation, there is a $30 billion supplemental request for fiscal year 2017 recently submitted to the Office of Management and Budget by the Department of Defense, which should make its way to Congress in the next few weeks. Additionally, as the administration modifies its fiscal year 2018 budget request, they are without a predictable base on which to build.

There is very little margin of error, given the few legislative days remaining before the continuing resolution expires on April 28. I, and I believe the chairman, do not view that date as another point for negotiation. It is an absolute deadline, and the value of this bill and every other appropriations bill diminishes the day they are not enacted.

In closing, I again appreciate the leadership and the management of this wonderful work by our chairman, Mr. Frelinghuysen. Going forward, I will work hard with the chairman. I will work hard with Chairwoman Granger, with Ranking Member Lowey, and the other members of our full committee to return the appropriations process to its normal schedule.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Lowey), the ranking member of the full committee.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Minnesota (Ms. McCollum), who is a member of the Subcommittee on Defense.

Mr. Speaker, I would simply follow up on the chairman's remarks, and I also want to congratulate Mr. Smith on his life of service to his country. Mr. Pomerantz on our side was also mentioned. Again, both gentlemen and their service to this country are a reflection on public service, and I appreciate it very much on behalf of all of us in this Chamber.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Ruppersberger), who is also a member of the Defense Subcommittee.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee), who is a member of the full Appropriations Committee.

Mr. Speaker, I yield an additional 1 minute to the gentlewoman.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur), a member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

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

I will end where I began, and that is because I think this will be the last time that the chair and I manage a Defense Appropriations bill together on the floor. It has been a delightful relationship, and I look forward to it continuing as you are chairman of the full committee.

Again, I thank the staff and look forward to working with Chairwoman Granger, and I also ask my colleagues to support the bill.

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

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I take this time to honor my friend, Terry Lynch, and to wish him well upon his retirement from his position as Vice President of the Heat and Frost Insulators International. Mr. Lynch retired from his post at the end of 2016, and for his many years of service and expertise in the field, he is to be commended. Terry has devoted his life to the interests of men and women in the trades, and for his unwavering dedication, he is worthy of the highest praise.

Terry Lynch has served in numerous leadership roles throughout his illustrious career. In 1970, he began his apprenticeship with Asbestos Workers Local 17 in Chicago, Illinois, before receiving his journeyman card in 1974. In 1980, Terry was elected Vice President of Local 17, before being selected to serve as the union's Corresponding, Recording, and Financial Secretary in 1984. Terry served in this capacity until 1986 when he was elected Trustee for Local 17's health, welfare, pension, and annuity funds. He also served as chairman of those jointly trusted funds and for the joint apprenticeship training committee. In 1996, Mr. Lynch was chosen to serve as Business Manager of the Heat and Frost Insulators and Asbestos Workers Local 17. He was elected to the position from which he retired, International Vice President at Large, in September 2002. Moreover, Terry served the international union as Legislative and Political Director and Health Hazard Administrator.

Each and every day, Terry has cherished the honor and responsibility that comes with being an elected union leader. He has worked tirelessly to end the scourge of asbestos and to promote health initiatives to protect families impacted by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related health conditions. Terry has supported mechanical insulation, creating additional work opportunities for his fellow union members. Mr. Lynch is also a member and past admiral of the Pirates, a group comprised of individuals from union labor and management in Northwest Indiana dedicated to helping children with Down syndrome. Terry is truly an asset to the industry and to the community, and his passion and steadfast dedication serve as an inspiration to us all.

Terry's commitment to the community and his career is exceeded only by his devotion to his amazing family. Terry and his loving wife of forty-seven years, Denise, have one son, Jason, and one grandson, Connor.

I am proud that Terry Lynch is my friend, and I cannot thank him enough for all that he has done for me over the years. I am even more grateful for what he has done for so many for so long, strangers and friends alike.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in honoring Terry Lynch for his outstanding contributions to Local 17 and the Heat and Frost Insulators International, and to wish him well upon his retirement. For many years, Terry has displayed his unwavering loyalty to members of the insulator trades, and his numerous positions have provided him the opportunity to touch the lives of countless individuals.

Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere appreciation and deep respect that I recognize the 75th Anniversary of the United States Navy's military construction force, the Seabees. For their contributions to our military and to countless individuals throughout the world, as well as their courage while facing danger head on, these brave and skilled service members are to be commended.

In December 1941, following the tragic events at Pearl Harbor, the United States Navy recognized the need for the presence of construction battalions on our nation's coasts. It was from this realization that the Seabees came to be. The earliest Seabees, who served under the Navy's Civil Engineer Corps, were recruited with an emphasis on their skills in the construction trades, but due to the dangerous situations they would encounter, these men, who averaged 37 years of age, also needed to be ready and able to fight.

Since World War II, the Seabees have put themselves in harm's way while performing construction projects to aid their fellow service members, as well as civilians affected by both war and natural disasters. In World War II alone, more than 325,000 Seabees served on six continents and were tasked with everything from the construction of airstrips, bridges, and roads to the building of hospitals, warehouses, and an incredible number of huts to house more than 1.5 million military members. During the Korean War, the Seabees were called upon to address a problem that was thought to be impossible. These skilled men managed to cut a mountain in half to make a runway at Cubi Point, located in the Philippines, while constructing a much-needed naval air station in the region. Throughout the war in Vietnam, the Seabees remained active in the construction of bridges, roads, and aircraft facilities while also providing much support to the people of Vietnam through the building of wells, schools, hospitals, and utilities. They also shared their expert knowledge and skills to train the Vietnamese people toward self-sufficiency. Efforts to support construction needs for the military and in supporting those affected by war have continued throughout the Persian Gulf War as well as in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Seabees have also been called upon time and time again to provide much needed assistance, both within our borders and beyond, during times of crisis and devastation. From Hurricane Camille in 1969, to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, to the 2010 and 2011 disastrous earthquakes and tsunami that rocked Haiti and Japan, and many times in between, the Seabees have courageously put themselves in danger while working on rescue and cleanup efforts, as well as the vast rebuilding needed in these dire situations. They have been instrumental in rebuilding roads, housing, and the critical ports that were required for humanitarian supplies to reach these countries. In many of these instances, without the skilled and dedicated efforts of the Seabees, the outcomes would have been much worse for many more people.

Mr. Speaker, at this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring the many dedicated Seabees who have served our nation for the past 75 years. They represent an important part of the United States Military, and are a true example of unwavering patriotism. Let us never forget the service, sacrifice, and contributions they made and continue to make on behalf of our nation, their fellow service members, and those in need throughout the world.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and sincerity that I take this time to congratulate twenty-five individuals who will take their oaths of citizenship on Friday, March 10, 2017. This memorable occasion, presided over by Judge Philip P. Simon, will be held at the United States Courthouse and Federal Building in Hammond, Indiana.

America is a country founded by immigrants. From its beginning, settlers have come from countries around the world to the United States in search of better lives for their families. Oath ceremonies are a shining example of what is so great about the United States of America, that people from all over the world can come together and unite as members of a free, democratic nation. These individuals realize that nowhere else in the world offers a better opportunity for success than here in America.

On March 10, 2017, the following people, representing many nations throughout the world, will take their oaths of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana: Arturo Abel Diaz Pena, Lakshmi Sowmya Koppineedi, Abel Ruiz Romero, Pierre Remon Halteh, Dayanara Calix, Vanessa Yalen Cardenas, Carlos Alberto Uribe Schiaffino, Mohammad Abdelqader, Anna Broda- Stephens, Alicia Castaneda, Amilcar Chavez, Lupita Cortes, Nancy Nasilele Imasiku, Paulina Landeros Salazar, Mi Young Youn, Jay Joohyoung Lee, Xinyu Kevin Liu, Roberto Martinez, Ishaq Mohammed, Mercy Dickson Mtika-Nyirenda, Maria Pacheco, Antonia Roman, Luis Alberto Salas, Maria de Lourdes Sanchez de Flores, and Jacob James Yang.

Although each individual has sought to become a citizen of the United States for his or her own reasons, be it for education, occupation, or to offer their loved ones better lives, each is inspired by the fact that the United States of America is, as Abraham Lincoln described it, a country ``. . . of the people, by the people, and for the people.'' They realize that the United States is truly a free nation. By seeking American citizenship, they have made the decision that they want to live in a place where, as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution, they can practice religion as they choose, speak their minds without fear of punishment, and assemble in peaceful protest should they choose to do so.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating these individuals who will become citizens of the United States of America on March 10, 2017. They, too, will be American citizens, and they, too, are guaranteed the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We, as a free and democratic nation, congratulate them and welcome them.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I take this time to honor a dear friend and one of Indiana's finest citizens, Indiana Supreme Court Justice Robert Rucker, and to wish him well upon his retirement. Throughout his many years of public service, Justice Rucker has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his fellow Hoosiers. After nearly two decades on the Indiana Supreme Court, Justice Rucker will be retiring this spring. He has left an indelible mark as an outstanding public servant, and for this, he is worthy of the highest praise.

Justice Rucker grew up in Gary, Indiana, and graduated from Gary Roosevelt High School. Before embarking on his legal career, Justice Rucker, a decorated veteran of the United States Army, honorably served his country during the Vietnam War. He went on to receive a bachelor's degree from Indiana University in 1974 before completing the Juris Doctor at the Valparaiso University School of Law in 1976. A devoted legal scholar, Justice Rucker has also earned a Master of Laws degree in the judicial process from the University of Virginia School of Law.

In 1991, following many remarkable years of service to the Northwest Indiana community, Justice Rucker was appointed to the Indiana Court of Appeals by Governor Evan Bayh, becoming the first African American to serve on an Indiana appellate court. In 1999, he was appointed by Governor Frank O'Bannon to the Indiana Supreme Court. Throughout his illustrious judicial career, he has authored more than 1,200 civil and criminal opinions. He has served on numerous boards and committees including the Indiana Commission for Continuing Legal Education, Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, Northwest Indiana Legal Services Organization, and the Judicial Council of the National Bar Association.

Justice Rucker's colleagues could not hold him in higher esteem, stating that ``His work stands as a powerful illustration of the guidance courts provide for the peaceful resolution of disputes encompassing nearly every facet of Hoosier life.'' They have said that what is most admirable about him is his commitment to seek equality for all people. ``He always had the courage and fortitude to protect the rights of all, regardless of their state in life. He has the ability to stand in the shoes of any person and understand their plight.'' For his lifetime of leadership and his truly inspiring career in public service, Justice Rucker is to be commended.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring an outstanding servant of the public for his lifetime of service to the people of Indiana and to wish him well upon his retirement. His continuous effort to improve the quality of life for all Hoosiers is truly admirable, and we have been blessed to have had his presence in the judiciary for so long. Justice Rucker's legacy will endure as a source of pride for the First Congressional District, and his selfless service is to be emulated and admired.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I take this time to recognize Purdue University Northwest as the college celebrates the first anniversary of Founders Day, which took place on March 6, 2017. The successful unification of two college campuses into a single university led to the creation of Purdue University Northwest, which is one of the first educational mergers in Indiana. The merger creates more choices for students, promotes a regional identity, and contributes to economic development in Northwest Indiana.

In recognition of this day, we honor and commend the outstanding contributions Purdue University Northwest has made to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond. A comprehensive regional university, Purdue Northwest offers award winning undergraduate and master's degree programs, a nursing practice doctorate, a full athletic program, student housing, international student programs, and innovative research centers and institutes. These programs have been a tremendous benefit to the local community through the fostering of a culture of innovation, which is so crucial in today's ever-changing economy.

During World War II, technical classes were offered to region plant workers, which was part of a national defense training program. Purdue decided to continue to offer courses in Northwest Indiana after the war ended, and in 1946, classes were held at various locations throughout the area. Over time, two campuses emerged, with some 77,000 degrees earned by graduates.

Currently, Purdue Northwest offers more than seventy state-of-the- art programs to approximately 13,350 students. Additionally, innovative and passionate staff, faculty, department heads, and leadership, including former chancellors and the current chancellor, Dr. Thomas L. Keon, are held in the highest esteem for their unwavering dedication, which has contributed to the success of Purdue University Northwest. Their expertise in the field of education has been a remarkable asset to the region, and their tireless efforts have enhanced the lives of Purdue University Northwest's many students and alumni.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Purdue University Northwest on the first anniversary of Founders Day. The merger has improved educational opportunities for the institution's current students

and will positively impact the lives of countless scholars for years to come.