Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I take this time to recognize and honor Reverend Pharis D. Evans and to wish him well upon his retirement as Pastor of Clark Road Missionary Baptist Church in Gary, Indiana. For his 56 years of service and devotion to his congregation and to the community in Gary and beyond, Reverend Evans is to be highly commended. In his honor, two special worship services are being held at the church on Sunday, October 8, 2017 and October 15, 2017. In addition, a celebratory retirement banquet will take place at the Gary Genesis Convention Center on Friday, October 13, 2017.

Pharis Evans graduated from Haywood High School in Brownsville, Tennessee. As a young boy, his passion for theology grew from the church services he attended, and he knew early on that he was destined to be a preacher. He studied theology at Chicago Baptist Institute and continued his studies at Calumet College of Saint Joseph in Whiting. It was on the first Sunday in April 1961, when Pharis D. Evans was first selected to lead Clark Road Missionary Baptist Church. For the past 55 years, he has administered spiritual guidance to a congregation that presently serves more than 800 parishioners. Pastor Evans's impact through his spiritual teaching has been immeasurable, and those he has mentored can all attest to his generous nature. Throughout the years, he has been a tireless advocate for his church and the community. Since 1963, Pastor Evans has coordinated and maintained Radio Broadcast Outreach Ministry. From 2009 to the present, he has also served as ``Spiritual Advisor'' for the Baptist Ministers Conference of Gary and Vicinity, and in 2008, he was awarded the prestigious community service Drum Major Award by the Gary Frontiers Service Club. Additionally, Pastor Evans has served as President and Vice President of the Progressive National Baptist Convention for the state of Indiana and been a chaplain for the Gary Police Department. A passionate and proven leader, Pastor Evans has provided counsel for many young ministers in search of guidance and direction. For his selfless devotion to aiding those in need of spiritual guidance, Pastor Evans is to be commended.

Reverend Evans's exceptional dedication to the church and to his community is exceeded only by his devotion to his wonderful family. He and his beloved late wife, Ann, raised five wonderful children (one deceased). Reverend Evans is also a devoted grandfather and great- grandfather.

I am privileged to call Pastor Evans my friend. More importantly, Reverend Pharis D. Evans has been a friend to all, the epitome of what we consider a Man of God. He is a man of service who has led a life we should all seek to emulate. His vision, his work, and his spirit have provided all of us with a guide to an improved and gentler future.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Pastor Evans on his retirement as Pastor of Clark Road Missionary Baptist Church. His fifty-six years of complete dedication, leadership, and selfless service to others is truly inspiring. I ask that you join me in congratulating him and wishing him well upon his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere admiration that I recognize the Indian Medical Association of Northwest Indiana, which will host its 36th Annual Gala on Saturday, September 9, 2017, at the Halls of Saint George in Schererville, Indiana. The Indian Medical Association of Northwest Indiana has always been an outstanding asset to Northwest Indiana. Its members have dedicated themselves to providing quality medical services to the residents of Northwest Indiana while focusing on compassion for others, improving patient care, and lighting the way for change.

At this year's Annual Gala, the Indian Medical Association will present the Lifetime Achievement Award to one of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens, and my good friend, Dr. Vidya Kora. For his outstanding contributions to his community, he is to be commended.

As a young boy in India, Vidya Kora's passion for his field emerged, leading him toward a lifetime of service in the medical community. It was after completing his studies at Gandhi Medical School in Hyderabad, India, in 1978, that Dr. Kora came to the United States. He completed his internship at Edgewater Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago, followed by his residency in internal medicine at Chicago's Cook County Hospital. Dr. Kora was selected to serve as chief resident from January to July of 1986. Upon completion, he joined the team at the Marion VA Medical Center in Marion, Illinois, where he served our nation's veterans.

Dr. Kora's remarkable resume reflects not only his profession but also his devotion to public service. As a member of the Indiana Medical Association, he has served on its Commission on Legislation, as both Vice-Speaker and Speaker of its House of Delegates, and as the President of the Indiana State Medical Association from 2006 to 2007. He is also a current delegate to the American Medical Association. A tireless advocate for the improvement of his community, Dr. Kora is also a board member for Unity Foundation of LaPorte County and chairs the Northern Indiana Regional Board of the Franciscan Alliance. He has further served the residents of Michigan City and LaPorte County in numerous capacities. He has been a board member for the Michigan City Area Schools and served two terms as LaPorte County Coroner, while also completing two terms as LaPorte County Democratic Chairman. Dr. Kora has continued to seek an improved quality of life for his community while in his second term as LaPorte County Commissioner. As a public servant, Dr. Kora has always sought the betterment of our nation's health care system, so it is no surprise that he is also very active in the American Medical Association and Board of Indiana Medicine's political action committees.

Dr. Kora's passion for medicine and commitment to the people he serves is exceeded only by his devotion to his wonderful family. Dr. Kora and his loving wife, Sudha, have one daughter, Shilpa, and one son, Rishi, both of whom are physicians specializing in internal medicine and have made their parents very proud as they follow in their father's footsteps.

Dr. Kora is committed to his family, to improving the lives of the patients he treats, and serving selflessly to enhance the quality of life of all those who live in Northwest Indiana. His is a life we should all seek to emulate. It is an honor to call Dr. Vidya Kora my friend.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending the members of the Indian Medical Association of Northwest Indiana, as well as this year's Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Dr. Vidya Kora, for their outstanding contributions to the medical field, as well as to their communities and beyond. Their unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of Northwest Indiana and throughout the United States is truly inspirational, and I am proud to serve as their representative in Washington, D.C

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I take this time to recognize Mr. Marcus W. Malczewski, Sr. and to wish him well upon his retirement from his position as Lake County Highway Superintendent. Mr. Malczewski's fifty-five years of service to the people of Lake County are to be commended. In honor of Marcus's lifetime of service, a surprise retirement celebration was held on Thursday, August 31, 2017, at Gamba Ristorante in Merrillville, Indiana.

Marcus W. Malczewski was born in 1937 and raised in Gary, Indiana. After graduating from high school, he worked in construction in Alaska, which had not yet obtained its statehood. Marc went on to attend Indiana University before beginning his career as a driver for the Lake County Highway Department in 1962. Two years later, he transferred to the engineering department. In 1982, Marc was appointed assistant superintendent, a position he held until 1993, before being named superintendent of the Lake County Highway Department.

Throughout his remarkable fifty-five-year career, Marc has been an outstanding leader and helped build an economy in Northwest Indiana. Among his many accomplishments, Marc directed the repair and improvement of more than 1,000 miles of roads and over 100 bridges. Throughout the years, Mr. Malczewski worked to ensure a safe work environment, providing a plethora of assistance for all highway employees. Given his concerns for employee safety and to maximize their efficiency, Marc developed and implemented a program designed to test the skills of drivers and operators. Also, he oversaw the installation of GPS systems in all department automobiles, trucks, and powered equipment. He continued to implement new products and techniques for maintenance and construction and developed a positive relationship between the highway department and other county agencies. For his unwavering dedication to public service, Marcus Malczewski is worthy of the highest praise.

Marc's excellence in his field is exceeded only by his devotion to his amazing family. He and his beloved late wife, Marilyn, have three wonderful children, seven grandchildren, and three adoring great- grandchildren, with three more on the way.

I am honored to call Marc Malczewski my friend. We should all be blessed with such wonderful friendships. More importantly, Marc has been a friend to all, a gentleman in the truest sense of that word, and the epitome of a public servant. His is a life we should all seek to emulate.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other colleagues to join me in honoring Marcus W. Malczewski, Sr. for his lifetime of leadership and service to the community. His fifty-five years of exceptional devotion and continuous efforts to improve the quality of life for the residents of Lake County is truly admirable. I ask that you join me in congratulating him and wishing him well upon his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and admiration that I recognize the 100th anniversary of the historic neighborhood of Marktown in East Chicago, Indiana. In honor of this special occasion, the Marktown Centennial Celebration was held at the Marktown Community Center Park on August 19, 2017. Events included a remarkable exhibit, ``Marktown--The First 100 Years,'' as well as a walking tour of this noteworthy community.

In 1917, Marktown was constructed by Clayton Mark and designed in the English Tudor Revival style by renowned architect Howard Van Doren Shaw. The neighborhood was built as a planned housing community for the people who worked at Mark Manufacturing, one of the first mills along Indiana's shoreline. Marktown is largely known for its distinctive design in which the cars are parked on the sidewalks and the streets are purposed for pedestrian walkways. While only part of the original design was built, the community met the needs of the American workforce and their families in the Indiana Harbor. The concept of Marktown is truly innovative and a shining example of American ingenuity in the early part of the 20th century. In 1975, the community was added to the National Register of Historic Places, capturing Marktown's historical and cultural significance from the industrial growth period in the Calumet Region. The importance of the Marktown neighborhood contributes to the history and culture of Northwest Indiana and our nation.

Today, the residents of Marktown, as well as the members of the Marktown Preservation Society and its president, Paul Myers, focus their efforts upon the preservation of the historic homes in this community. The people who live in Marktown today are very proud and protective of their neighborhood. Many of the residents descend from generations of family members who grew up in Marktown, and they continue to fight for the restoration and preservation of this unique community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in honoring and congratulating the historic neighborhood of Marktown on the occasion of its 100th anniversary. The Marktown historic community is a significant piece of the region's past and will always be remembered and admired. The commitment to preservation and the unwavering dedication of the Marktown residents and members of the Marktown Preservation Society, and Paul Myers are truly admirable, and they are worthy of the highest praise.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and admiration that I recognize the Sojourner Truth House as the organization celebrates its 20th anniversary. In honor of this special occasion, the Sojourner Truth House will host an open house followed by a celebration mass at the Cathedral of the Holy Angels on September 16, 2017. The organization will then conclude its day of celebration with a reception at Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana.

The Sojourner Truth House, a not-for-profit organization located in Gary, Indiana, serves an average of 2,092 homeless and at-risk women and children per month. The outstanding and compassionate employees and volunteers at the Sojourner Truth House assist and encourage their clients to regain their dignity and sense of purpose for themselves, their children, and their communities. The organization's dedication to its four core values--Openness to the Spirit, Community, Simplicity, and Dignity and Respect for all--fosters a safe environment for their clients to identify and overcome the barriers in their lives. Clients are provided with access to resources, classes, counseling, and various activities aimed at healing the mind, body, and spirit. Among the organization's numerous and important contributions, the Sojourner Truth House has clothed over 2,000 clients and has provided meals for nearly 15,000 people in need. Clients of the Sojourner Truth House share their appreciation for the warm, welcoming assistance they receive at the Sojourner Truth House, which only further reinforces the positive and lasting impact the organization has on the community of Gary and the entirety of Northwest Indiana. Recently, they have become a special limited partner in the Village of Hope, a 40-unit apartment building for homeless individuals and families with mental illness and/ or addiction.

I would like to take time to mention some of the inspiring leaders in Northwest Indiana who have worked with the Sojourner Truth House to bring about positive, impactful change and to inspire the community. They include Executive Director Sister Peg Spindler, Chairwoman Judith Stanton, and the rest of the current Board of Directors: Leo Barron, Regina Biddings-Muro, Susan Cohen, Denise Dillard, James Donovan, Sister Michele Dvorak, Mike Gluszewski, Jason Griffin, Roxanne Morton, Sister Cathy Schwemer, Vickey Sultzman, Michelle Taylor, Scott Yahne and Pamela Yttri. I am also grateful for the sponsorship of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, who work tirelessly to spread the goodwill and hope the Sojourner Truth House exudes.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the Sojourner Truth House on its 20th anniversary. For the past 20 years, the staff and leadership have touched the lives

of countless individuals through their unwavering commitment to those in need. The ministry is both a beacon of hope and a network of support for so many and serves as an inspiration to us all.

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, August 11, 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 August 11, 2017, the following people, representing many nations throughout the world, took their oaths of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana: Feda Izzedin Aljobeh, Mahmoud Ibrahim Almakharza, Mosa Maher Awad, Roberto Barraza, Manuel de Jesus Castaneda, Maria Arminda de Leon, Jose Jorge Garcia, Lucio Chan Gudmalin, Wendy Lane Harris, Nora Ibrahim, Delia Ruiz, Ma Olivia Avila de Torres, Eduardo Torres, Victor Hugo Vargas Sanchez, Jose Jesus Vargas, Cayetano Ontiveros Rodriguez, Silvia Andrea Alvarez, Guijuan Niu, Shanqin Chen, Hamida Brkovic, Eric Kwadwo Ofori, Ling Zhou, Jose Luis Castro Vazquez, Julio Alvarez Gonzalez, Hong Tuyet Thi Nguyen, Juana Irma Diez de Sollano Garcia, Ruth Mwihaki Chege, Jose Martin Hernandez, Hannah Rose Babbini, and Prabhakar Himatram Jani.

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 August 11, 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. Chairman, I rise in support of the amendment.

I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Nevada (Ms. Rosen).

Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Vermont (Mr. Welch).

Mr. Chairman, first of all, I want to commend the gentleman from Vermont for his amendment and for his thoughtful approach to this problem.

Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from California (Mr. Lowenthal).

Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Michigan (Mrs. Dingell).

Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Maine (Ms. Pingree), who is a member of the full committee.

Mr. Chairman, I simply, again, reiterate my support for the amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to the amendment.

Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Correa).

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

Will the gentleman yield?

Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding.

I would point out that the gentlewoman is absolutely correct. The committee worked hard to increase funding for these accounts.

Also, I would point out, representing the First Congressional District of Indiana, I am intimately familiar with the problems these environmental sites have.

There is much to do, many resources we need to look for, and I would support the gentleman's amendment.

Mr. Chair, I am pleased to accept the gentleman's amendment.

Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding me time.

Mr. Chairman, I reluctantly join with the chair in opposition to the gentlewoman's amendment and share the chair's concern over the issue raised. However, I don't think the approach is an appropriate one in that we would carve out another budget line.

Given my anticipation that we will not have a full 12-month fiscal year for this money to be spent, I am very concerned that we will find enough projects for this money to be spent on. In the meantime, they would then be eliminated from the existing line for other possible research.

Mr. Chairman, I would look to work with the gentlewoman to address this issue in a fulsome fashion, but not in this manner.

Mr. Chairman, as the designee of the ranking member, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. Chairman, I feel compelled to rise in support of the gentleman's amendment, as it relates to the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, and would simply make a few brief remarks.

This is, I believe, a very substantive and serious issue facing a constitutional government, our government of laws.

I would point out that it is a sad state of affairs if somewhere in the United States of America we cannot find a secure facility to detain 41 individuals at this late date, given the fact that President Bush released over 500 people from Guantanamo, and President Obama released 197.

Mr. Chairman, I would simply close by observing that, within the last week, the Attorney General of the United States of America could not find a justification to have an alleged terrorist, who recruits for al- Qaida, having been extradited from Spain, an Algerian, placed in Guantanamo. That person, as I understand it, as I speak at this moment, is being detained in the United States of America. That is what should happen with the other 41 people.

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

Mr. Chair, I just have a parliamentary inquiry.

Mr. Chair, I have a question on the procedure. I understand that Mr. Foster is recognized. Did I lose track of an amendment for Mr. Polis?

And Mr. Poe?

I appreciate the information. Sorry for the interruption very much.

Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the gentleman yielding.

I simply would want to rise in support of his amendment. I would point out that in 2010, the Ballistic Missile Defense Review made no request for space-based interceptors. Currently, this is a matter under review by the Department. I think we should allow that review to be concluded before we expend moneys.

Will the gentlewoman yield?

Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the gentlewoman for yielding and join her in opposition; although, I must tell you I am always very reserved about opposing an amendment put forth by a Notre Dame graduate.

But, in all seriousness, I would say that I do appreciate the gentleman's concern with the devolving situation in Yemen in that we do not want to get involved in a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

I am also in agreement with much of the intent behind the amendment and certainly agree that Congress has relinquished much of its oversight role over Presidential decisions about sending U.S. Armed Forces into hostilities provided under the War Powers Act. That is why I am a strong supporter of efforts to develop a new Authorization for Use of Military Force for the global war on terror. Congress needs to, finally, after 16 years, carry out its constitutional duty and stop hiding from this very important debate that the gentleman has raised in his amendment.

However, I do have concerns that the gentleman's amendment, as written, is overly broad and would place undue restrictions on U.S. Forces within the Middle East to respond to legitimate threats within Yemen.

So, again, very reluctantly, I join with the chairwoman in opposition, and I appreciate her yielding.

Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to the gentleman's amendment.

Mr. Chairman, I certainly would acknowledge that Iran is up to very nefarious purposes as far as sponsoring terrorism internationally.

I also acknowledge the gentleman referenced the previous administration more than once during his remarks as far as the issue before the House today.

In 2016, last year, heavy water was purchased by the Department of Energy and the State Department, but I would point out this is 2017 with a different administration, and essentially the amendment is a solution to a problem that does not exist.

The current administration has recertified Iran's compliance with the agreement twice. Iran does not have a nuclear weapon and is subject to intense scrutiny by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

But importantly to the point raised today, I would suggest that the Department of Energy consistently has indicated at the time of the 2016 heavy water purchase from Iran that the United States would not be a regular buyer of Iranian heavy water.

Since that purchase, the United States has not purchased any additional heavy water from that country. In fact, the U.S. has, through refraining from purchases of excess supply, forced Iran to ship excess heavy water abroad so that it can continue to adhere to the agreement entered into.

It seems highly unlikely that the current administration would now seek out an opportunity to purchase this heavy water.

Again, I believe the gentleman has a solution to a problem that does not exist, and I am opposed to his amendment.

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

Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent to withdraw my request for a recorded vote on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Florida to the end that the Chair puts the question de novo.

Mr. Speaker, on July 17, 2017, I was absent from the House and missed Roll Call Vote 379. Had I been present for Roll Call Vote 379, on passage of H.R. 2210, I would have voted Yes.

Mr. Chairman, I thank the ranking member for yielding to me.

Mr. Chairman, I, first of all, thank Chairwoman Granger. This is her first time leading the Defense Appropriations bill on the floor. She has done so under very difficult circumstances, with a steadfast commitment to maintaining the tradition of cooperative bipartisanship on our subcommittee, maintaining transparency, and taking a thoughtful approach to solving problems.

Mr. Chairman, I would also like to express my immense gratitude to Chairman Frelinghuysen, Ranking Member Lowey, the members of our subcommittee, and our exceptional staff for all of their hard work.

Mr. Chairman, we have a duty to provide predictable and timely appropriations to the Department of Defense and the rest of the Federal Government. This is a consistent request by our senior Defense leaders. However, the House bills exceed the cap of fiscal year 2018 defense spending established under the Budget Control Act of 2011 by $72.5 billion.

If enacted as written and the budget control caps remain in place, the Department of Defense would face a sequestration of roughly 13 percent. The Department has still not recovered from the rash of problems caused the last time it was forced to deal with sequestration in 2013. In the second half of that fiscal year, the Department savaged its operations and maintenance accounts to continue ongoing contingency operations and to protect military personnel accounts. This resulted in the Navy idling an aircraft carrier at a pier in Norfolk, the Army canceling training rotations, and the Air Force reducing flight times for its combat aircraft, and widespread civilian furloughs. We simply cannot allow that to happen again in fiscal year 2018.

We have avoided sequestration in the last 4 fiscal years by adjusting the budget caps for both defense and nondefense appropriations. Those modest adjustments, done in a bipartisan and bicameral fashion, provided needed funding for our military, but also for our country's economic and physical infrastructure, scientific research, public health systems, and veterans' care.

Besides my frustration with the process, I have concerns about the significant increase in funding that this bill will provide to the Department: $60 billion more than last year and $29 billion more than requested by the administration.

I support providing additional funds to the Department, as I believe we are asking too much of our brave servicemembers and their families, but, putting it mildly, the world is also an unsettled place and not trending towards stability. But that being said, I believe that the Department will have great difficulty spending so many additional dollars in a timely and efficient manner.

Vacancies continue in important leadership positions. Hiring restrictions on civilian employees and a handful of ongoing strategic reviews will all slow the decisionmaking process. It is also unlikely that Congress will complete its work in a timely manner by October 1, and that any dollars provided will have to be spent in a compressed time period.

Additionally, I am not convinced that the administration evaluates dollars being spent on the military with the same criteria as it does with the rest of the Federal Government.

In the Office of Management and Budget's Major Savings and Reform document for fiscal year 2018, it was a page-turner. With 150 proposals to allegedly save billions in discretionary programs, there was only one recommendation in 150--one--for the Department of Defense, with a potential to save only $2 billion by 2027. With a budget of roughly $600 billion a year, representing nearly half the discretionary spending, it is beyond the pale that OMB could only come up with a single savings point for the Department of Defense.

One final point is that I am highly disappointed that the Republican leadership has watered down language during committee markup regarding the Authorization for Use of Military Force. Representative Barbara Lee's language would have established an eminently reasonable approach to updating 2001 legislation in authorization.

Congress must stop hiding from the debate, and carry out its constitutional responsibilities to support our troops in uniform and the civilian support staff that helps them out.

Mr. Chairman, in closing, I would like, again, simply to reiterate my thanks to the members of our subcommittee and committee, and for our sterling staff who have done a superb job under the most difficult circumstances that I could imagine.

Mr. Speaker, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity, on behalf of myself and my constituents, to honor Colonel Christopher T. Drew, District Commander for the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)--Chicago District. Throughout his command, Colonel Drew has shown unwavering dedication to improving the quality of life for the people of the District under his command. Colonel Drew will relinquish his command to Colonel Aaron W. Reisinger on July 21, 2017, at which time he will complete his exemplary career in the United States Army.

In 1992, Colonel Drew began his selfless twenty-five year military career in the United States Army. Throughout the years, Colonel Drew completed tours in Texas, New York, California, Missouri, and Kansas, before arriving in Chicago. He was also deployed several times, serving in Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq. Colonel Drew handled every assignment with courage, honor, and merit. He is regarded as a most gifted teacher who excels at bringing people together to solve problems and helping individuals become the best versions of themselves. For his distinguished service, Colonel Drew is the recipient of numerous awards and citations, including two Bronze Star Medals, two Defense Meritorious Service Medals, four Army Meritorious Service Medals, four Army Commendation Medals, five Army Achievement Medals, one Joint Meritorious Unit Award, and two Meritorious Unit Commendations, as well as the Sapper Tab, Ranger Tab, Air Assault Badge, and Parachutist Badge.

Colonel Drew took command of the USACE--Chicago District in 2014. During his time as District Commander in Chicago, his leadership has played a significant role in the organization's accomplishments, most notably in Northwest Indiana. The USACE initiated an ecosystem restoration project at the Portage Lakefront Park in 2015, in which sixty-five acres were restored, complementing the investments made previously by the USACE to open up public access to Lake Michigan. In East Chicago, Colonel Drew joined city officials to break ground on a shoreline restoration project that will enhance amenities to allow residents to enjoy the lakefront, while benefiting a diverse ecosystem. Stormwater and sanitary sewer projects were initiated by the Colonel's leadership, in partnership with local sponsors in various communities, which improve water quality throughout the region and ultimately improve the quality of life for residents in numerous communities. Work continues on the Little Calumet River Flood Control and Recreation Project, which protects residents along the river and creates opportunities for increased economic development, and the dredging of the Indiana Harbor Ship Canal carries on apace. These projects and others stand testament to Colonel Drew's commitment to the USACE's mission to work with its partners to energize the nation's economy through its civil works projects, as they likewise improve the quality of place in areas such as Northwest Indiana, I am grateful for his generosity of spirit, his meticulous work ethic, and his dedicated life of service.

Colonel Drew's outstanding career is exceeded only by his devotion to his beautiful family. He and his amazing wife, Rochelle, have two beloved children, Ian and Amara.

Mr. Speaker, Colonel Drew has selflessly served his country and his fellow Americans. He has been a steadfast and proven leader throughout his remarkable career, one that has been instrumental in producing and developing the talents of the next generation. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Colonel Christopher T. Drew for his honorable service to the United States of America and in wishing him well upon his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and sincerity that I take this time to congratulate the individuals who will take their oath of citizenship on July 4, 2017. In true patriotic fashion, on the day of our great Nation's celebration of independence, a naturalization ceremony will take place, welcoming new citizens of the United States of America. This memorable occasion, coordinated by the League of Women Voters of the Calumet Area and presided over by Magistrate Judge Andrew Radovich, will be held at The Pavilion at Wolf Lake 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. The oath ceremony is 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 July 4, 2017, the following people, representing many nations throughout the world, will take their oaths of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana: Adriana Solis, Dhanwant Singh, Syneth Lorana Gardner, Roberto Diaz, Virginia Reformina Wilson, Khalid Javed, Maria Wiederhold, Glendie Mallen, Liljana Stojceska, Oliver Cadikovski, Gagandeep Khatra, Hernan Ezequiel Barenboim, Jose Lauro Sanchez Ruvalcaba, Sambath Cheakhun, Mariel Claudia Lopez, Sabine Marie Helene Shive, Maria del Rayo Tirado, Mary Madhulatha Vennamalla, Ding Lin, Aurelia Ruiz, Alanoud Hashem Mahmoud Alshurafa, Yan Zhu, Guadalupe Juan Ramirez, Aleksandra Gardijan, Nevenka Nanic, Brenda Beatriz Medina, Maria de los Angeles Garduno Hernandez, Woo Young Yang, Lucy Amparo Perdomo Lopez, Marjan Risteski, J. Guadalupe Gama Macias, Delroy Anthony Roomes, Sonali Shukla, Erlinda Treyes Alvarez, Ma Dolores Serrano del Real, Gelma Ordaniza Hogue, Damaris Mituki Kariuki, Ravi Nigam, Jayesh Shantilal, Minnie Marchan Damico, Teresa Bautista Alcala, Mico Mileusnic, Mathy Bukassa McKinney, Israel Jacinto-Contreras, Norielyn Langres Heitzmann, Genevieve Blayee, Manuel Angel Corazzari, Martin Gonzalez, Hannan Hassan Sheikh, and Emilio Soria.

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 that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating these individuals, who will become citizens of the United States of America on July 4, 2017, the anniversary of our Nation's independence. 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 my privilege and with great respect that I congratulate Mr. Lawrence Reedus on a momentous milestone, his 80th birthday. Lawrence will be celebrating with family and friends on Friday, June 16, 2017, at the Calumet Township Multi-Purpose Center in Gary, Indiana.

Lawrence Wesley Reedus was born on June 5, 1937, in Gary, Indiana, the second oldest of five children. As a young man, he attended Roosevelt High School, where he excelled in his athletic pursuits, lettering in both football and basketball. After graduating in 1956, Lawrence continued his educational pursuits in Indiana at Manchester College. After working various jobs, Mr. Reedus found his calling as a career fireman for the Gary Fire Department, serving the city and its residents for more than twenty years. Known for his leadership and his political interest, Lawrence was determined to obtain a union for his fellow firefighters, so it is no surprise that he would go on to become the first African American president for the Gary Firefighters Association IAFF Local 359. For his unwavering dedication to his colleagues and to the community of Gary, Lawrence Reedus is worthy of the highest praise.

Mr. Reedus's greatest source of pride is his amazing family. He has three beloved children and three adoring grandchildren. Lawrence now resides in Memphis, Tennessee, but we are honored by his loyal service to the people of Gary for so many years.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Lawrence Reedus on this special day. His outstanding dedication to his community and fellow firefighters is truly admirable. It is my pleasure to join Lawrence's family and friends in wishing him a very happy 80th birthday.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and sincerity that I take this time to congratulate thirty individuals who will take their oaths of citizenship on Friday, June 9, 2017. This memorable occasion, presided over by Magistrate Judge John E. Martin, 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 June 9, 2017, the following people, representing many nations throughout the world, will take their oaths of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana: Fabian Alejandro Gonzalez Franco, Muralidhar Ganji, Qiang Xu, Gustavo Quijada Vega, Alan John McDonald, Marco Antonio Gonzalez Jimenez, Krysta Carmella Ma Abuyo Mapoy, Miao Cai, Blagica Bujaroska, Penina Kagwiria Imanene, Gaulo Amezcua Luna, Marvin Antonio Sandoval, Dolores Eumelia Romero, Paula Phan Duong, Juan Diego Salgado, Hang Trung Dinh, Noe Joel Salazar, Ahmed Abed Kanaan, Vicar Serrano Valencia, Thales Felipe Neves Pontes, Mara Carolina Stibitz, Smruti Prabodhchandra Damania, Tatiana Carolina Zambrano Marin, Ishvarbhai Venabhai Patel, Pascual Lopez Rocha, Laura Ivonne Carmona Garcia, Liz Yessica Relinski, Yongtao Zhang, Maryrose Sachiko Moore, and Apollo Raj Velummylum.

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 June 9, 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 respect and admiration that I congratulate Descent of the Holy Spirit Orthodox Church, located in Schererville, Indiana, as its congregation and church leaders join together to celebrate the church's 100th Anniversary. Reverend Father Holowaty and Subdeacon Daniel Coffman will be commemorating this momentous occasion with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and celebration on June 25, 2017, as well as additional memorial events throughout the church's anniversary year.

Descent of the Holy Spirit was founded 100 years ago when a small group of families were looking for a place to practice the Orthodox faith. In 1917, the original church was built in East Chicago, Indiana, and it was in this location that parishioners worshipped as a community for the next eighty years. In 1997, the current church, located in Schererville, was constructed. It is here that the congregation continues to gather together in celebration, praise, and faith. Descent of the Holy Spirit is part of the American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese of the United States of America, led by His Grace, Right Reverend Bishop Gregory Tatsis, under the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, Patriarch Bartholomew.

Descent of the Holy Spirit Orthodox Church continues to touch the lives of its parishioners and countless individuals through its compassionate service. The congregation is a close-knit, family- centered community where all people are welcome.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in honoring and congratulating Descent of the Holy Spirit Orthodox Church in Schererville, Indiana, on the occasion of its 100th Anniversary. For their commitment to service and to their faith, the church leaders and parishioners are worthy of the highest praise.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I take this opportunity to recognize a fine Hoosier and my friend, Roy Reese, on the occasion of his 80th birthday, which he will celebrate on Tuesday, June 13, 2017. Mr. Reese has been a pillar of his community in Wheatfield, Indiana, for nearly half a century, and having known him for many years, I can attest to his steadfast dedication to improving the quality of life for his fellow citizens. I congratulate Roy as he celebrates this momentous occasion with his many family members and friends.

Roy Reese was born in Stevenson, Alabama, on June 13, 1937. A proud American and true patriot, Roy joined the United States Air Force in 1954 and eventually became the crew chief for large cargo helicopters before returning to civilian life in 1958. Upon his return, Roy began his career with Operating Engineers Local 150 and has been a proud union member with the organization for more than fifty-four years. In addition, Mr. Reese has also utilized his vast agricultural knowledge which has helped him to become a successful farmer.

Roy has also proven himself to be a devoted public servant, as well as an esteemed member of his church. A lifelong Democrat, Mr. Reese served on the Gilliam Township Advisory Board for twenty-four years. A proud veteran as well as a man of great faith, he is also a lay speaker at Tefft United Methodist Church and has also served as chaplain for American Legion Post 228 in Francesville, Indiana. In addition, Roy has been a member of Masonic Lodge No. 642, located in Wheatfield, for more than fifty years.

I would be remiss if I did not share one specific example of the type of person Roy Reese is. While he is well-known in his community and in his church for his selfless service, Roy truly epitomizes what it means to be a good neighbor, regardless of the season. In fact, Roy has always taken it upon himself to clear snow from his neighbors' driveways during the cold winter months, a service illustrative of his generous spirit.

However, Roy Reese is first and foremost a family man. I am certain Roy would confirm that his greatest source of pride is his loving family. Roy wed his beloved wife, Bonnie, on January 20,1958, and the couple has spent the past fifty-nine years by each other's side. Roy and Bonnie are the proud parents of four sons, Daniel, Michael, Richard, and Roy Douglas Reese. They are also the loving grandparents of seventeen and the adoring great-grandparents of fourteen.

Mr. Speaker, Roy Reese has been a dedicated member of and inspiration to his community throughout his life, and on this special occasion, it is fitting that I take this time to honor him and to commend him for all that he has done for so many for so long. At this time, I ask that you and all of my distinguished colleagues join me in wishing Roy a Happy 80th Birthday and many more joyous years to come.