Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a remarkable leader, devoted patriot, and tireless advocate for conservative values in the great State of Alabama, Mrs. Jean Brewer of Marshall County.

Jean Brewer's life has been one defined by service to our Nation, her community, and her beloved state. Upon graduating from DAR High School in Grant, Alabama, Jean embarked on her first professional journey with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Maryland, where she served with distinction early in her career.

Jean was married to the late Don Brewer, whose service in the United States Air Force took their family around the world. Jean worked faithfully alongside her husband after he enlisted and earned his commission as an officer; she served as a liaison to other military spouses and providing support, encouragement, and leadership to families navigating the demands of military life. Together, Jean and Don raised three children, Jennifer, Renea, and Roger, instilling in them the same values of faith, service, and love of country that have guided their own lives.

Following Don's retirement from the Air Force, the Brewer family returned home to Grant, Alabama. Never content to rest after years of service, Jean became deeply involved in local civic and political life. Her leadership and dedication were recognized by her community when she was elected and served for several years as President of the Marshall County Republican Party, where she worked tirelessly to strengthen grassroots involvement and uphold conservative principles.

Jean Brewer loves this state, she loves this country, and she has consistently worked to preserve and restore the values that so many Alabamians hold dear. Through her leadership, mentorship, and steadfast commitment to service, she has left a lasting impact on Marshall County and beyond.

As the Member of Congress from the 4th Congressional District of Alabama, it is my privilege to recognize Jean's lifetime of service and to commend her for her devotion to family, community, and country.

I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mrs. Jean Brewer and extending our deepest appreciation for her many contributions.

God bless Jean Brewer, and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Linda Lewis of Jasper, Alabama, wife of Ray Lewis and longtime President of the Chamber of Commerce of Walker County, for her decades of service, leadership, and steadfast commitment to the people and businesses of Walker County.

A proud graduate of Walker High School, Class of 1974, Mrs. Lewis has dedicated much of her life to making Walker County a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Since assuming the role of Chamber President in 1996, she has been instrumental in leading Walker County through transformative growth and economic development. Under her leadership, retail across the county has flourished, from the revitalization of downtown Jasper to the expansion of Interstate 22.

Mrs. Lewis has guided the Chamber in launching critical programs focused on leadership development, community engagement, and technical advancement. She has strengthened partnerships with regional and national bass fishing organizations, boosting tourism and supporting business recruitment. Through her efforts, nationally recognized brands in lodging, dining, and retail have chosen to invest in Walker County, creating hundreds of new jobs and expanding opportunities for families throughout the region.

Most recently, the Walker County Chamber of Commerce unveiled plans for a major new development near Walker Baptist Medical Center in Jasper, a project made possible by Mrs. Lewis's determination to continue advancing the county's economic future.

Mrs. Lewis's contributions to our communities cannot be overstated. Her vision, commitment, and unwavering work ethic have left a lasting impact on Walker County and will continue to shape its success for generations to come.

On this day, November 18, 2025, Linda Lewis will be honored as the recipient of the 2025 Jamie Wallace Award, the highest recognition that a chamber of commerce executive in the State of Alabama can receive. In recognition of her dedicated service, I am proud to present Mrs. Lewis with a flag flown over the United States Capitol in her honor.

It is my privilege to congratulate Linda Lewis on this well-deserved award and to commend her for nearly three decades of exceptional leadership and devotion to Walker County. Her contributions demonstrate the very best of public service, and I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring her legacy.

Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize and honor Mayor Kenneth ``Ken'' Sunseri of my hometown of Haleyville, Alabama, as he retires after many years of dedicated service to his community. Mayor Sunseri has faithfully served as Mayor of Haleyville since 2008, providing steady and visionary leadership for the people of our community. Throughout his tenure, he has exemplified a spirit of service and commitment to the wellbeing of every citizen. His leadership has been marked by progress, integrity, and a deep love for his hometown.

Before his time in public office, Mayor Sunseri served his country with distinction in the United States Army during the Vietnam War as a platoon leader with the First Infantry Division. He went on to complete 28 years of military service, retiring with the rank of Colonel. His leadership and dedication to his soldiers and his country exemplify the best of American service.

Beyond his military career, Mayor Sunseri has been deeply involved in every facet of civic life in Haleyville. He has served as President and Deputy District Governor of the Haleyville Lions Club, President of the Haleyville Chamber of Commerce, President of the Haleyville Merchants Association, and as a member of the Haleyville Library Board, Housing Authority, and Industrial Recruiting Committee. He has also served on the Individual and Family Support Board and as Chairman of the 310 Board for Winston and Marion Counties.

In addition to his mayoral duties, he has served on the Haleyville Water and Sewer Board since 1986, chairing it since the early 1990's. Under his guidance, Haleyville has advanced key infrastructure improvements and strengthened its community services.

Over the years, Mayor Sunseri has received numerous awards recognizing his contributions, including: Civitan Citizen of the Year (2004); Alabama Communities of Excellence Volunteer of the Year (2005); State of Alabama RC&D Council Member of the Year (2017); and Outstanding Mayor Award from Alabama Communities of Excellence in both 2015 and 2024.

One of his proudest achievements as Mayor was the construction of the new Haleyville City Hall, completed in January 2016, which now stands as a lasting testament to his leadership and vision for future generations.

Beyond his public service, Mayor Sunseri's greatest source of pride has been his family. He and his wife Kay Sunseri have three children-- David Sunseri, Beth Moore, and Jennifer Sunseri--and are the proud grandparents of five grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, Mayor Kenneth ``Ken'' Sunseri has lived a life devoted to faith, family, community, and country. His legacy in Haleyville will continue to inspire those who follow him in public service. On behalf of the people of Alabama's 4th Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude and congratulations to Mayor Sunseri for his decades of exemplary service and wish him and Kay all the best in the years to come.

Mr. Speaker, this month, Kazakhstan celebrates Republic Day, commemorating its declaration of sovereignty on October 25, 1990. This pivotal moment paved the way for Kazakhstan's independence from the Soviet Union and symbolizes the nation's enduring commitment to self-determination, prosperity, and peace.

From its earliest days, Kazakhstan pursued a forward-looking vision rooted in partnership, openness, and modernization. Its early alignment with the West, especially in developing a free-market economy, has shaped its remarkable transformation. Over the past three decades, Kazakhstan has emerged as a thriving nation with a dynamic economy, an active international presence, and a strong and growing partnership with the United States.

The U.S.-Kazakhstan relationship is grounded in shared values and mutual respect. As we mark this important national holiday, we reaffirm our commitment to deepening cooperation between our two nations to meet global challenges and advance peace, security, and prosperity.

Kazakhstan's commitment to transparency, the rule of law, and an open investment climate has made it a magnet for American business. U.S. companies remain the largest source of foreign direct investment, helping drive Kazakhstan's diversification and sustainable development. This alignment supports the country's broader goal of becoming a resilient, innovative economy and a hub for regional growth.

Kazakhstan continues to stand as a pillar of stability in Central Asia and a leader on the world stage in nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament. Despite external challenges,

Kazakhstan has remained a peaceful and stabilizing force in Central Asia.

Recently, Kazakhstan took another decisive step in its economic modernization. The national railway company, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, signed a landmark $4.2 billion agreement with Wabtec Corporation out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania--the largest locomotive order in years.

This transformative deal is a powerful endorsement of American innovation and manufacturing leadership. It will support thousands of good-paying U.S. jobs and strengthen America's manufacturing base, underscoring the mutual benefits of our growing economic partnership.

Kazakhstan is taking bold steps to position itself as a key Eurasian transit hub. The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (the so- called `Middle Corridor'), which begins in Kazakhstan and runs through Azerbaijan to global markets, is strengthening supply chain resilience for the U.S. and its partners.

Another vital area of expanding cooperation is rare earth minerals. The United States and Kazakhstan are working together to build a reliable and diversified supply chain for rare earth elements and other critical materials essential to major U.S. industries, including aerospace, defense, clean energy, and semiconductors.

Rare-earth minerals from Kazakhstan can be the trusted source necessary to help power the next generation of U.S. innovation, driving the transformation of the American economy built around AI, advanced manufacturing, and nuclear energy.

Energy collaboration also remains a cornerstone of our partnership. Earlier this year, Chevron's $48 billion Future Growth Project at Kazakhstan's Tengiz field began production, underscoring the scale and depth of U.S. investment in the country's energy future. The Tengizchevroil venture--operated by Chevron represents Central Asia's largest oil development, ensuring reliable supply and creating thousands of high-skilled jobs. These projects embody the long-term, mutually beneficial nature of U.S.-Kazakhstan energy cooperation.

Kazakhstan's efforts align with President Trump's focus on law and order, emphasizing that governance grounded in common sense and the rule of law is essential to maintain public order and protect citizens' rights.

Our nations also share a strong commitment to interfaith harmony and global dialogue. Kazakhstan is home to people of many backgrounds and of many faiths. She has long championed peace and tolerance. Earlier this year, Astana hosted the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, welcoming over 100 delegations from 60 countries under the theme ``Dialogue of Religions: Synergy for the Future.''

This same spirit of openness and engagement also guides Kazakhstan's approach to the global economy. Kazakhstan's active membership in the World Trade Organization reflects its ongoing commitment to international norms and open markets.

As such, it is time for the United States to take the next logical step--granting Kazakhstan Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) by repealing the outdated Jackson-Vanik Amendment. Doing so would cost America nothing but gain us much. It would send a powerful signal of strategic seriousness, eliminate lingering legal ambiguity for U.S. investors, and unlock the full potential of our bilateral trade and industrial cooperation.

As we look ahead, the upcoming C5+1 Summit on November 6 represents a critical opportunity to reaffirm U.S. leadership and engagement in Central Asia. Marking the 10th anniversary of this important diplomatic forum, the summit should deliver tangible results--demonstrating that the United States values long-term partnership.

We urge the Administration to seize this moment, build on the foundation of trust and shared interests, and work with Congress to achieve outcomes that advance stability, prosperity, and lasting friendship across our nations.

Mr. Speaker, as Kazakhstan celebrates Republic Day, we honor the enduring friendship between our two countries and look forward to the continued growth of a partnership rooted in mutual respect, shared progress, and a common vision for a peaceful and prosperous world.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to honor and celebrate the 50th Anniversary Golden Jubilee of the current Russellville Hospital facility in Russellville, Alabama. Since its founding in 1957, Russellville Hospital has been a central pillar in delivering health care to the people of Franklin County and the surrounding communities.

The present hospital building, completed in 1975, embodied a forward- looking vision for modern medical facilities in our area. In 1996, Russellville Hospital became part of the North Alabama Medical Center network--expanding its capabilities, resources, and the scope of care it offers to patients.

Over the years, Russellville Hospital has grown in breadth and depth of services. Its commitment to patient care has led to the addition of pain management, general surgery, orthopedics, plastic surgery, and a Sleep Center, alongside critical services such as a 24/7 Emergency Room, Medical-Surgical floor, Intensive Care Unit, Radiology, and Therapy departments. These expansions reflect both evolving medical needs and the hospital's steadfast focus on excellence in care.

In conjunction with this golden jubilee, I want to acknowledge the outstanding leadership that guides Russellville Hospital today. Under the stewardship of: Chris Ware, Chief Executive Officer; Danny Crowe, Chief Operating Officer; Kathy Martin, Chief Financial Officer; Alis Welborn, Director of Nursing; Audrey Daniels, Director of Marketing-- these executives have worked diligently to advance the hospital's mission, support its staff, and ensure the highest standards of patient care. Their leadership is integral to Russellville Hospital's continued success and its reputation as a trusted healthcare provider.

Indeed, their efforts, together with those of the broader medical staff and supporting personnel, have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, Russellville Hospital was honored with Becker's ``Cleanest Hospital'' award, and in 2025 it was named ``Best Hospital in Franklin County.'' These recognitions are a testament to the dedication, diligence, and professionalism of everyone serving there.

As Russellville Hospital marks 50 years in this facility, it stands as a living example of resilience, growth, and compassionate service. I join with the people of Franklin County, the State of Alabama, and all those served by this institution in congratulating Russellville Hospital. May its next half-century be filled with continued innovation, healing, and unwavering care for its community.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Christian Embassy, a ministry that has faithfully served leaders in Washington, D.C. and around the world since 1975. I have had the privilege of being involved with Christian Embassy since I first came to the House of Representatives 28 years ago.

For half a century, the Christian Embassy has stood as a spiritual resource to public servants, helping them discover the relevance of God's truth in their personal and professional lives. This vital ministry began when government officials and business leaders, concerned for the spiritual health of Members of Congress and their spouses, invited Dr. Bill and Vonette Bright--founder and president of Campus Crusade for Christ International--to come to Washington to minister to the personal, private, and spiritual needs of those serving in public life.

Over the years, the Christian Embassy's ministry expanded to include the White House, Presidential Appointees, senior Pentagon civilian and military leaders, ambassadors, and their spouses and staff. From the beginning, God blessed this work. The evidence of His faithfulness is seen in the many leaders who have come to know Jesus Christ personally through the ministry, as well as in those who have grown in their faith, learned to share it with others, and discovered how to live a Spirit-empowered life even amid the pressures of leadership.

The Christian Embassy's outreach has included discipleship training, evangelism training, private prayer times, personal counseling, and both group and individual Bible studies. Through these efforts, the Christian Embassy has served Members of both Houses of Congress, White House officials, Presidential Appointees, senior military officers and civilians, and international diplomats.

For over two decades, one of the most cherished programs of the Christian Embassy was the ``Washington Escape,'' an annual retreat that allowed Members of Congress, senior military leaders, political appointees, senior executives, ambassadors, and their spouses to step away from the demands of Washington for a time of rest and renewal. Renowned pastor and author Chuck Swindoll served as the master teacher for these retreats, which blessed countless participants with biblical wisdom and encouragement. My wife Caroline and I were honored to participate in some of these retreats over the years.

I also want to highlight the leadership of Bobby Little, who has served as Executive Director of the Christian Embassy since 2007. Under his direction, the Christian Embassy has expanded its programs to strengthen the spiritual and relational foundations of leaders serving in Washington and around the world. Working alongside his lovely wife Sheila, Mr. Little has guided initiatives that provide discipleship, leadership development, and biblical training for Members of Congress, senior military officers, and diplomats. As someone who has known Bobby for many years and is currently in the bible study he leads, I know that his steady leadership has helped the Christian Embassy remain faithful to its mission--equipping and encouraging those in positions of influence to live out their faith and values with integrity and purpose.

The Christian Embassy is nonpolitical and non-denominational, maintaining a singular vision: to minister to government leaders not only because of their personal needs, but also because of their influence as decision-makers shaping our Nation and the world.

Mr. Speaker, I commend the Christian Embassy for 50 years of steadfast service to our leaders and our Nation, but mainly Christian Embassy's service to the Lord Jesus Christ. As we mark this milestone, we give thanks for the countless lives touched by this ministry and for its continuing mission to honor God and serve those who serve others.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to highlight the completion of Tombigbee Electric Cooperative's commitment to bring reliable, high- speed fiber internet access to more than 100,000 residents in Northwest Alabama.

Tombigbee Electric Cooperative was established to meet the need for electricity among citizens in the rural areas of Northwest Alabama. Since its founding in 1941, Tombigbee has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to serving its community and strengthening the area it surrounds. Over the decades, the cooperative has provided safe and provide safe and reliable electric power and fiber-to-the-home internet.

In 2017, Tombigbee Electric Cooperative set forth an ambitious goal to provide high-quality, high-speed internet service to 100,000 people across Northwest Alabama. Today, that goal has been achieved.

Through the installation of more than 4,200 miles of fiber and a total investment of $145 million, made possible by $37 million in state and federal grants, as well as a $100 million investment by the cooperative itself, Tombigbee Electric Cooperative has delivered on its promise to bridge the digital divide for rural Alabamians.

Mr. Speaker, this milestone represents more than the completion of a project, it signifies a lasting investment in the prosperity and potential of rural communities. Thousands of citizens will now reap the benefits of this achievement, including expanded educational opportunities, strengthened economic development, improved access to health care, and an enhanced quality of life for countless families and businesses.

Tombigbee Electric Cooperative has demonstrated that when vision, leadership, and commitment to community are combined, meaningful progress can be made.

This accomplishment serves as a reminder that rural America must never be left behind. I commend Tombigbee Electric Cooperative for its steadfast dedication and leadership, and I look forward to seeing the continued benefits this investment will bring to the people of Northwest Alabama.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize Wallace State Community College and its President, Dr. Vicki P. Karolewics, for their outstanding achievements and national recognition.

Wallace State was recently named one of the top three community colleges in the Nation by the Aspen Institute, earning the Rising Star designation in the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. It also became the first Alabama community college ever selected as a finalist for this prestigious award. Wallace State continues to fulfill its mission of ``learning that transforms lives and communities,'' providing opportunities that strengthen individuals, families, and the State of Alabama.

Under the leadership of Dr. Karolewics, who has served as president since 2003, Wallace State has become a national model for excellence, innovation, and service. Student outcomes far exceed national averages, with graduation, persistence, transfer, and job placement rates among the best in the country. The college generates more than $276 million annually in economic impact and supports more than 4,000 jobs across its region, while enrolling nearly 10,000 students each year in credit, workforce, adult education, and dual enrollment programs.

Dr. Karolewics herself has been recognized nationally and statewide for her leadership, serving on higher education boards and councils and receiving numerous awards for her contributions to education, workforce development, and public service. She demonstrates the transformative power of education and serves countless students while advancing Wallace State to national prominence.

Mr. Speaker, I commend Wallace State Community College and Dr. Vicki P. Karolewics for their impact on students, communities, and the State of Alabama, and I congratulate them on this well-deserved national recognition.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge a special anniversary in Alabama's 4th Congressional District. One hundred years ago, on September 12, 1925, Wilson Dam began commercial operations. As a part of the Tennessee Valley Authority's network of hydroelectric dams, Wilson Dam supports TVA's mission of providing low-cost, reliable power, flood control, and navigation of the Tennessee River. Over the past 100 years, Wilson Dam has powered communities, enabled river commerce, and driven economic growth throughout the Tennessee Valley.

Located in Florence, Alabama, Wilson Dam has 21 generating units, capable of producing up to 663 megawatts of electricity and powering over 350,000 homes and businesses in north Alabama.

Wilson Dam is a National Historic Landmark and an engineering feat. It stretches nearly a mile--more than 4,500 feet--across the Tennessee River. The site plays a crucial role in the movement of goods through our country. The main lock has a maximum lift of 100 feet, making it the highest single-life lock east of the Rockies. More than 3,700 vessels on average and 11.4 million tons of goods pass through Wilson Dam's locks each year.

The associated Wilson Dam Reservoir includes over 160 miles of shoreline and covers 15,500 acres, providing ample opportunities for recreation. This makes North Alabama a destination for those looking to fish, boat, kayak, and enjoy our beautiful state, while driving economic activity and jobs in Alabama.

In a testament to the role Wilson Dam plays in the system, TVA is in the process of extending the life of the plant for decades. As part of the Hydro Life Extension Program TVA is refurbishing units to improve dam safety and increase hydro generation output. Wilson Dam has fulfilled--and continues to fulfill--TVA's mission statement of serving the people of the Valley region.

I hope my fellow Alabamians will join me in celebrating all that Wilson Dam has done for our state, and our region, for one hundred years. Here's to the next 100.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize and welcome to Washington, His All-Holiness Bartholomew Archbishop of Constantinople- New Rome and Ecumenical Patriarch, the spiritual leader of Orthodox Christianity worldwide. As the Archbishop of Constantinople-New Rome, His All-Holiness serves as the spiritual head of the second largest Christian Church in the world.

His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was elected in October 1991 as the 270th Archbishop of the 2,000-year-old Church founded by the Apostle Andrew. For more than three decades, he has stood at the forefront of the cause of religious freedom, interfaith dialogue, and peacebuilding, making him the longest-serving Archbishop of Constantinople in the history of Christianity.

Born Demetrios Arhondonis in 1940 on an island in Turkey, His All- Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew pursued theological studies in Rome, Switzerland, Germany, and Greece before joining leadership within the Church. He is fluent in numerous languages and has been recognized by academic institutions worldwide, holding honorary doctorates from universities across Europe, the United States, and beyond.

Throughout his tenure, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has worked to advance religious liberty and human rights, to strengthen ties among Christian denominations, and to build relationships among the Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. He has co-sponsored international peace conferences, supported reconciliation in conflict-ridden regions, and spoken out for persecuted groups across the globe.

His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew is no stranger to our Nation's Capitol. In 1997, during his first official visit as His All-Holiness, he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in a ceremony in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. On that occasion, he reminded us that, ``The Pentagon embodies might, but the Capitol embodies right. In these halls different points of view meet and are reconciled. . . And most important to the Orthodox Church during many dark ages--in these halls human rights are preserved and human dignity is enhanced.''

This week, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew will return to Washington as part of his visit to the United States, where he will also receive the distinguished Templeton Prize in New York City, an award previously bestowed upon Mother Teresa, the Dalai Lama, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. This honor recognizes his lifelong commitment to faith, peace, and science.

Mr. Speaker, it is fitting that we welcome His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew back to Washington, D.C. and recognize his remarkable contributions as a global religious leader, peacemaker, and advocate for freedom. His presence is a reminder of the enduring values of faith, dialogue, and human dignity.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today here on the House floor of the United States House of Representatives to recognize an extraordinary American and a dear personal friend, Mr. Roy Drinkard of Cullman, Alabama, who just celebrated his 105th birthday this past weekend, on July 12.

Born in 1920, Mr. Drinkard is a proud veteran of the Second World War, who served his country with courage and continues to inspire all those who know him. He is the oldest living marine in the United States of America.

After the war, he returned to Alabama and built a legacy as a successful businessman, civic leader, and helped shape the growth and character of Cullman, Alabama, as well as the State.

At the age of 105, Mr. Drinkard remains active in his business. He still serves on the board of trustees at Troy University, demonstrating that age is no barrier to leadership, commitment, or purpose.

Mr. Speaker, Roy Drinkard is a living example of American grit and grace. My wife, Caroline, and I are proud to call him our friend. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Drinkard a very happy 105th birthday and in thanking him for a lifetime of service to his community and to his Nation.

May God bless Roy Drinkard and his family, and may God bless the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a special event that is occurring to celebrate and honor an extraordinary American and a dear personal friend: Mr. Roy Drinkard of Cullman, Alabama.

This event is scheduled to occur on Friday, July 11, 2025. This will be an event to celebrate Mr. Drinkard's 105th birthday as he personally plans to welcome family, friends, and acquaintances to his home in Cullman, Alabama.

Born July 12, 1920, Mr, Drinkard is the oldest living United States Marine in the Nation, a proud veteran of World War II who served his country with courage and who continues to inspire all who know him.

My wife, Caroline, and I plan to attend this momentous occasion and celebrate with Roy and all those in attendance.

Mr. Drinkard remains actively engaged in his business and continues to serve on the Board of Trustees of Troy University, demonstrating that age is no barrier to leadership, commitment, or purpose.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and all of our colleagues pause for a moment in celebration on Friday as we celebrate the man and the life of Roy Drinkard and wish him a very happy 105th birthday.

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the lifelong service of Dr. Michael Rouse, a man whose dedication to ministry, education, and the advancement of Christian values has had a profound impact not only in Alabama, but across the Nation.

Dr. Rouse's commitment to faith and education is evident in his academic achievements. He earned his bachelor's degree from Baptist Bible College, followed by a master's degree in pastoral ministries, and a doctorate in theology from Bethany Seminary. These accomplishments laid the foundation for his more than forty years of devoted service as the senior pastor of Mountain View Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. Through his leadership, this church has been a beacon of faith and community in our state.

Beyond his pastoral duties, Dr. Rouse has been a leader in Christian education. In 1982, he founded Mountain View Baptist School, providing generations of students with a strong academic foundation rooted in biblical principles. His influence in education extended further through his twenty-five years of service as both vice president and president of the Alabama Christian Education Association.

Additionally, from 2016 to 2024, he served faithfully as the president of the American Association of Christian Schools, guiding Christian educational institutions across the country with wisdom and steadfast dedication.

Dr. Rouse's contributions to our communities, our schools, and our faith institutions cannot be overstated. His lifelong efforts have strengthened families, empowered students, and enriched the spiritual and educational fabric of Alabama and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, this month, our friend and partner, the Republic of Azerbaijan marks the 35th anniversary of ``Black January.''

This period symbolizes the beginning of the end of Soviet rule over Azerbaijan, an occupation that lasted for much of the 20th Century. This was a time of oppression and horror. But uncowed by the evil of communism, the people of Azerbaijan yearned for freedom.

On January 19, 1990, violence erupted in Azerbaijan's capital city of Baku where Soviet troops killed over 100 Azeri demonstrators and wounded another 700. Undeterred, the people of Azerbaijan continued their peaceful protests until declaring independence from the U.S.S.R. on October 18, 1991.

I ask my colleagues to join me in observing the events of Black January in Azerbaijan and honoring those who lost their lives in pursuit of freedom. The United States continues to stand with the people of Azerbaijan and their right to live free.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Major Eric Hapner. He has

dutifully served this Nation with exemplary dedication as an Army Congressional Fellow and Congressional Budget Liaison for the Assistant Secretary of the Army in the office of Financial Management and Comptroller.

Major Hapner recently left Capitol Hill to continue his service to our Nation and America's Army National Guard as the Legislative Liaison for the Adjutant General of Nevada.

After growing up in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Hillsboro, Ohio, Major Hapner attended Miami University in Ohio where he earned his bachelor's degree in business and a minor in political science.

Initially enlisting in the Army National Guard as an infantryman, Major Hapner's first deployment was in support of Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts. In 2008, Major Hapner was commissioned as an aviation officer, attended flight school at Fort Novosel in Alabama to pilot the UH-60 Blackhawk, and distinguished himself as the Honor Graduate.

Major Hapner has served in a broad range of assignments during his Army career. He was the Assistant Operations officer and a Platoon leader in Alpha Company during his first Middle East deployment.

In 2015, he deployed with the Ohio and Colorado National Guards to Iraq as the Air Mission Officer in Command. In 2016, he was assigned as the Aviation Task Force Executive Officer in Illesheim, Germany.

Recently, Major Hapner served as the Deputy Executive Officer to the Director of the Air National Guard, National Guard Bureau at the Pentagon. Eric's last flying position was as a UH-60 pilot in command where he led multinational aviation missions with Middle Eastern and European allies.

In addition to his Army assignments, Eric graduated from the University of Colorado Law School in 2017. During law school, Eric pursued his passion of public service through multiple law clinics and internships ranging from county prosecutors to the Army JAG Corps and the Colorado Supreme Court. Additionally, Eric worked for Colorado State Senator Owen Hill, ultimately becoming his Chief of Staff.

In 2022, I had the privilege of working with Major Hapner in my office for the people of Alabama's Fourth Congressional District, where he served as an Army Congressional Fellow.

We continued working together during his subsequent assignment as a Congressional Budget Liaison for the U.S. Army. Major Hapner worked tirelessly with Members of Congress and their staff to accurately articulate the Army's budget priorities.

His professionalism, his integrity, and his commitment to the mission are unmatched, and his work ethic enabled him to successfully represent the U.S. Army and the Department of Defense in Congress.

Those lucky enough to travel with Eric to visit Army installations came to appreciate his profound insight, meticulous planning, and sage advice. Whatever journey you embark upon, there are few more reassuring sights than Eric sitting next to you.

No one knows this better than his family. Eric is a devoted husband to his wife, Hakela, who is currently attending law school at the McGeorge Law School in Sacramento, California. Eric met Hakela here on Capitol Hill and married in 2022.

Major Hapner's commitment to service and care for others permeates every organization and activity he participates in. Moreover, he exemplifies servant leadership for individuals in the Army and their communities to emulate.

Throughout his career, Major Hapner has positively impacted Soldiers, peers, and superiors. Our country has benefited tremendously from his extraordinary leadership, judgment, and passion.

I applaud Major Hapner for the job well done, and I hope that my colleagues in the House of Representatives will join me in wishing him and his family the very best in their future Army assignments and beyond.