Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 70th anniversary of the Small Business Administration.

For 70 long years, the SBA has helped countless American entrepreneurs achieve their dreams. By fostering the growth and health of small businesses, the SBA has ensured that small businesses remain the backbone of the American economy. Today, we recognize the SBA's dedication and invaluable contributions to supporting innovation, economic opportunity, and ensuring the American economy remains vibrant, inclusive, and resilient for every American.

The SBA's loan guarantee program has created millions of jobs, stimulated economic growth, and allowed countless Americans to realize their potential and follow their American Dream. Furthermore, the SBA has proven its commitment to helping socially and economically disadvantaged small business owners. Through its 8(a) Business Development Program, the SBA provides support, mentorship, and access to government contracts to those who would otherwise not have the opportunity to succeed. Additionally, the SBA has recognized the contributions of American women to the economy by establishing the Office of Women's Business Ownership, which empowers Women-owned small businesses to thrive.

In times of crisis, the SBA has played a crucial role in disaster recovery by providing low-interest disaster loans to businesses and homeowners who need them. This was made clear when our country faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, in which the SBA played a crucial role in keeping our economy afloat with its relief programs.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me to honor the SBA for its service to small businesses over these past 70 years of dedication to keeping the spirit of entrepreneurship alive in our great Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of the life of Staff Sgt. Darren James ``DJ'' Breton, who has recently passed away at age 32, and to honor his service to the Nation.

Born in Wiesbaden, Germany, DJ embarked on a remarkable journey that took him across the globe and led him to proudly serve his country through his role as a crew chief in the United States Air Force.

His passion for sports, particularly hockey, became the heartbeat of his life. DJ generously shared his love for the game by dedicating his time to the Youth Hockey League, where he not only nurtured young talents but also found immense joy. To both the youths he mentored and the family he deeply cherished, DJ brought a lighthearted sense of humor and an essence of selflessness, dependability, and respect for others.

DJ will be remembered for his legacy of service, care, and joy. He is survived by his loving father Dennis; his devoted mother, Kimberly; and his 2 adoring sisters, Cassandra and Hanna. DJ was, and is, well-loved and highly respected amongst his family and community, and his memory will not soon be forgotten.

I pray that his loved ones may be comforted as they mourn his loss. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me in honoring the life and legacy of Staff Sgt. Darren James Breton.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the life and memory of George J. Pedersen, who passed away on May 22, 2023, at age 87. My prayers are with his family and loved ones, especially his wife, Marilyn.

George was a caring individual and dedicated entrepreneur who lived his life serving others. He co-founded and led ManTech for more than 50 years. With a fierce love for his country and visionary genius, George evolved and grew ManTech as the government expanded its need for high- end engineering and innovative technology for national security missions. George's leadership in instilling expectations of excellence and success has made ManTech to be a successful partner with the government during threats of war, the space race, and 9/11. I am personally grateful for his leadership in Virginia, and I know that our communities are safer because of George's dedication and service to innovate ManTech's technology and solutions.

Not only did George dedicate his life to building and expanding ManTech, but he also was an amazing mentor and friend to all. He focused on helping people within the ManTech community and the community beyond. He prioritized successful outcomes for his customers and held himself to the highest standard in everything he did. George took a personal interest in the well-being of those around him and lived a life of service and dedication to others.

George will be remembered for his legacy of service, sacrifice, and care. I pray that his family and loved ones may be comforted as they mourn his loss. Therefore, Mr. Speaker, l ask that you join me in honoring the life and legacy of George Pedersen.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Ronald ``Ronnie'' Jett, who has recently passed away, and to honor his service to Virginia's First District and the Nation.

Ronnie served as a life member on the Northumberland Rescue Squad and is a recipient of the Michael B. Player Award for excellence in EMS. His service to his community continued with the Fairfields Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as an active member for nearly four decades. He has also been recognized as a life member for this service.

In January 1996, Ronnie was sworn into office for the Northumberland County Board of Supervisors for District 5. While on the Board he acted as Vice Chair for six years, Chairman for eighteen years, Emergency Services Director for eighteen years, and liaison for the Board to the Northern Neck Regional Jail since July 2000. His work on the Board includes enhancements to the County 911 System, obtaining funding for the Fire Department, construction of school complexes, athletic fields, and first responder facilities. His loyalty and care for the citizens and staff was clearly visible through his work to better his County.

Ronnie was a family man who survived by his wife, Linda S. Jett, daughters, Carrie Jo Jett and Kelly Morgan Jett, stepdaughters Kristi and Carlina; eight grandchildren, Kyndal, Karter, Haleigh, Michael, Keith, Macey, Dallas, and Michael Jr.; sister, Patsy Basye, and numerous caring nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Doris and Wilson Jett, and his brothers, Mitchell and Michael Jett. He could often be found spending time with his dog, Mia, or on his boat with family when he was away from his businesses, Smith Point Seafood and Cockrells Creek Deli.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the service, accomplishments, and values of Ronnie Lee Jett. May God bless Ronnie, and may He look over Ronnie's family as we remember his splendid life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Lancaster High School varsity boys track and field team's Class 1 State Championship.

On Saturday, June 3rd, the Red Devil varsity boys track and field team came home with the class 1 State championship after a 2-day meet at James Madison University. The Lancaster team scored an impressive 80.5 points and placed in every single event. I would like to congratulate Reece Rhodes, Daveon Smith, Jeremia Laws, Creston Saunders, Creaton Saunders, Tyson Henderson, Mathew Kane,

Joshua Woolard, Zaden Veney, Brandonn Wade, Trajan Waddy, and Trenielle Kelley for a great team victory.

I would like to recognize the leadership of head coach Draper Washington, as well as assistant coaches James Timm and Markus Ferguson. The coaches combined effort and leadership has led the track team to victory in 2 of the last 4 class 1 state titles. Next, I would like to recognize Reece Rhodes and Daveon Smith for their individual championships. Reece Rhodes broke the shot-put state record with a throw of 60'11", and Daveon Smith won the long jump with a jump of 21'4".

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the accomplishments and hard work of the student-athletes, coaches, and volunteers of Lancaster High School's varsity boys track and field program. I look forward to seeing their continued excellence.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Brent Robinson and his service to Virginia's First District and the Nation.

Brent got his start on the Hill in 2002 working for my predecessor, Jo Ann Davis. Brent joined my office in 2007 as a Legislative Assistant, and subsequently worked his way up to Legislative Director and Deputy Chief of Staff. Brent served as my chief policy advisor during his time in my office and helped introduce key pieces of legislation. Over 20 years after getting his start on the Hill, Brent has become an expert on various policy issues and an integral member of my D.C. staff. From meeting with constituents to managing our legislative team, Brent has spent countless hours serving Virginia's 1st District.

Brent has been an excellent mentor; always willing to offer advice to interns and staff. Both current and former members of my staff are improved public servants due to Brent's leadership. Brent's wisdom, humor, and perspective will be dearly missed in my office. I wish Brent the best as he starts his new position with FGS Global.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the service and accomplishments of Brent Robinson. May God bless Brent as he embarks on a new challenge, and I look forward to seeing his continued success in the future.

Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to this amendment. It is not a racket.

This amendment would add 14 flights per day at the already heavily congested Ronald Reagan National Airport.

It already has 820 flight operations per day. It is not a racket. The addition of 14 flights per day would further exacerbate an already stressed airport operation.

It is not a racket. With limited gates and physical capacity, DCA doesn't have the space to safely process additional flight operations, often resulting in planes sitting on the tarmac waiting.

It is not a racket.

Not only does Ronald Reagan National Airport not have the capacity to support this extension, there are no protections against negative impacts on other complementary flights or other airports in the region: Dulles International Airport, Richmond, Roanoke, and Norfolk.

Historically, slot expansions and perimeter exemptions at Ronald Reagan National Airport have come at the expense of fewer flights from other Virginia airports. It is not a racket. It is not a racket.

Without protections ensuring the safety and sustainability at Ronald Reagan National Airport and the stability of other regional airports, this amendment will only hinder the current system.

It is not a racket.

Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.

Mr. Chairman, 14 hours and 16 minutes--after considering over 1,000 amendments, that is the amount of time that it took to mark up the National Defense Authorization Act late last month in committee. The final vote was a resounding 58-1 to favorably report the bill.

Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Smith should be rightly congratulated on delivering this bipartisan bill to the floor today. I hope that we can similarly send to the Senate a bill that is equally bipartisan.

As to our national security, there is a quiet urgency demanded of us to move expeditiously on the passage of this bill. The Davidson Window of potential conflict with China in the late 2020s marks a day even closer.

Unfortunately, I am not convinced that our Nation fully understands this future peril. When we send servicemembers in harm's way, should we not also provide them with the best equipment and technology that our Nation can offer?

This NDAA provides that necessary assurance and a message to dissuade potential aggressors from future conflict.

As to the committee mark, it is worthy of support and includes advances in F-35 modernization and accelerates the fourth offset offered by the collaborative combat aircraft. It invests in the long- range precision fires that our military needs for the Indo-Pacific.

It aligns the Next Generation Air Domestic aircraft with its propulsion engine and, finally, accelerates Army ground modernization. I am confident that our Nation is better served with the passage of the tactical air and land forces mark.

Mr. Chairman, before I conclude, I specifically recognize Ranking Member Norcross for his partnership and leadership. He is dedicated to supporting our servicemembers, has the vision to see our national security perils, and the political fortitude to respond to our most serious threats. I truly appreciate his counsel and advice in delivering our bipartisan subcommittee mark.

My friends, the hour is late, we need to consider our constitutional responsibility required by the Davidson Window and respond with the urgency it demands.

Mr. Chairman, I encourage my fellow Members to answer the bell and support this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Rappahannock High School Girls Tennis Team for capping off their undefeated season with the VHSL Class 1 State Championship.

On June 8th, the Raiders ended their season on a high note. At the Burrows-Burleson Tennis Center at Virginia Tech, each member of the Rappahannock High School Girls Tennis Team had high level performances, defeating George Wythe 5-3. Leading up to the title match, the team had a 5-1 win over Buffalo Gap in the state semifinals and a 5-0 win over Riverheads in the state quarterfinals.

I would like to recognize Head Coach Ms. Taylor Yeatman for her great leadership throughout the season. Next, I would like to recognize the student-athletes themselves for their hard work: Mackenzie Ferguson, Layla Gaines, Haley Haydon, Ciera Mundie, Sadie Packett, Virginia Trible, Averil Vaughan, Addison Vaughn, Laney Williams, and Maggie Wonderling.

And finally, I would like to recognize the assistant coaches: Mr. Jamie Pritchard and Mr. Jackie Morris.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the accomplishments and hard work of the student-athletes, coaches, and volunteers of the Rappahannock High School Girls Tennis Team. I look forward to seeing their continued excellence on the court.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the power of the sportfishing industry and to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the American Sportfishing Association (ASA). ASA has played a vital role in preserving and promoting our cherished fishing tradition in this great Nation. From striped bass off the Atlantic coast, grouper species in the southeastern United States and Gulf of Mexico, catfish and trout throughout America's rivers and lakes, to salmon and mahi on the west coast, the United States is truly the envy of anglers throughout the world. Over 52.4 million Americans participate in recreational fishing every year and thanks to ASA's efforts, this number continues to rise.

Anglers contribute over $148 billion in economic output, contribute $1.8 billion towards conservation, and support 945,500 jobs across the country. Sportfishing is a powerful driver of the U.S. economy, thanks in large part to efforts that ASA and all its members within the sportfishing industry have accomplished since their inception.

For the past 90 years, the American Sportfishing Association has been at the forefront of protecting and advancing the interests of recreational fishermen across the United States. Through collaborative partnerships with government agencies, conservation organizations and industry stakeholders, they have played a pivotal role in shaping policies that promote responsible fishing practices, support habitat restoration, and safeguard the rights of anglers. ASA has supported meaningful legislation that has advanced conservation efforts throughout the years, such as the Sport Fish Restoration Act of 1950, which established an excise tax for the conservation, management and enhancement of sport fisheries and their habitats. More recently, ASA has been a leading advocate for pivotal conservation legislation such as the Modernizing Recreational Fisheries Management Act, America's Conservation Enhancement Act and the Great American Outdoors Act. To this day, ASA supports conservation efforts on Capitol Hill and beyond and is a champion of access to fish, abundant fisheries, fair trade and commerce.

ASA has also been instrumental in fostering a deep appreciation for the great outdoors and inspiring future generations to enjoy the sport of fishing. Their educational initiatives and angler retention campaigns, such as ``Fishing, Share the Fun,'' help to introduce new anglers, both young and old, to fishing and provide them with a lifetime of enjoyment in the sport. ASA is also a supporter of legislation that introduces children to fishing, as seen in their efforts to support the Youth Coastal Fishing Program Act.

Beyond their advocacy efforts, ASA serves as a unifying force within the angling community, bringing together diverse stakeholders, manufacturers, retailers, and fishing enthusiasts under one common purpose: the preservation and promotion of our Nation's rich fishing heritage. Every year the American Sportfishing Association hosts ICAST, the

world's largest sportfishing trade show, bringing thousands of Americans from all 50 states and over 70 countries together to showcase the latest innovations in sportfishing equipment and technology that their members have manufactured. ASA's I CAST also provides a platform for anglers and the sportfishing industry professionals to collaborate, share knowledge and form lifelong friendships dedicated to the sport.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending the American Sportfishing Association for their 90 years of service to the angling community. Their unwavering commitment to the sport, conservation and education has enriched the lives of countless Americans and will continue to do so for generations to come. Congratulations to ASA, their President Glenn Hughes and all their dedicated staff and members. Here's to the Association's next 90 years.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the life and memory of George J. Pedersen, who passed away on May 22, 2023, at age 87. My prayers are with his family and loved ones, especially his wife, Marilyn.

George was a caring individual and dedicated entrepreneur who lived his life serving others. He co-founded and led ManTech for more than 50 years. With a fierce love for his country and visionary genius, George evolved and grew ManTech as the government expanded its need for high- end engineering and innovative technology for natural security missions. George's leadership in instilling expectations of excellence and success has made ManTech to be a successful partner with the government during threats of war, the space race, and 9/11. I am personally grateful for his leadership in Virginia, and I know that our communities are safer because of Georges dedication and service to innovate ManTech's technology and solutions.

Not only did George dedicate his life to building and expanding ManTech, but he also was an amazing mentor and friend to all. He focused on helping people within the ManTech community and the community beyond. He prioritized successful outcomes for his customers and held himself to the highest standard in everything he did. George took a personal interest in the well-being of those around him and lived a life of service and dedication to others.

George will be remembered for his legacy of service, sacrifice, and care. I pray that his family and loved ones may be comforted as they mourn his loss. Therefore Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me in honoring the life and legacy of George Pedersen.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department's 75th anniversary. Since 1948, the department has provided critical services and support to Westmoreland residents.

The WVFD covers over 150 miles of roads and serves approximately 5,000 residents of Westmoreland County, Virginia. The WVFD's membership consists of 28 active volunteers committed to community service and public safety. From rescuing boaters on the Potomac River to responding to house fires in Montross, these volunteer first responders are always ready to serve those in need.

On May 6, 2023, the WVFD will host a celebration of its 75th anniversary. The event will feature local food vendors, fire safety challenges, and demonstrations of fire prevention equipment. I look forward to attending the event, and I commend WVFD for its 75 years of excellent service in Virginia's First District.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you to rise with me today to honor and celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department. May God bless the Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department as it continues its dedication to community service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Sarah Newsome and her service to Virginia's First District and the Nation.

Sarah earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Virginia, where she double majored in foreign affairs and religion. Prior to attending UVA, Sarah graduated from Collegiate School in Richmond, Virginia.

During her undergraduate studies, she interned on Capitol Hill and the Center for Christian Study. After graduating and prior to joining my office, she interned for the Center for a New American Security and the American Bakers Association.

Sarah joined my office in February 2020 as my staff assistant. She then worked her way up to press secretary, and subsequently to communications director. Sarah has been an incredibly versatile member of Team Wittman and was always eager to assist the office with new tasks. She contributed tremendously to providing the best constituent service and was a great mentor to both interns and staff. Sarah's contagious laughter, positive attitude, and leadership will be greatly missed in my office.

I would like to thank Sarah for her contributions and dedicated service over the last 3 years. She has been an invaluable member of my team, and I wish her the best as she begins her new role with the Chief Executives Organization.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing Sarah Newsome for her service to Virginia's First District and the Nation. May God bless Sarah as she continues her career.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Peter Eibert and his service to Virginia's First District and the Nation.

Peter earned his bachelor's degree from the University of California, Davis where he majored in Political Science. During his undergraduate studies, Peter interned for the People's Vanguard of Davis Inc., UC Davis Athletics, and Congressman Don Bacon.

Peter joined my office in June 2022 as my Staff Assistant. He contributed tremendously to providing great constituent service and has been a great mentor to interns. I would like to thank Peter for his contributions and service over the last year. He's been a valuable member of my team, and I wish him the best as he

continues his journey here at the Capitol working for Congressman Dan Meuser.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing Peter Eibert for his service to Virginia's First District and the Nation. May God bless Peter as he continues his career in public service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Allen ``AJ'' Gunther and his service to Virginia's First District and the Nation.

Prior to joining my office, AJ served as a Chaplain in the U.S. Army where he participated in humanitarian operations in Haiti, as well as a tours in Afghanistan and South Korea. He now serves as a Chaplain in the U.S. Army Reserves.

AJ joined my Tappahannock office in April 2021 as a Wounded Warrior Program Fellow and served in that role until April 2023. He helped resolve countless constituents' problems with federal agencies, contributing tremendously to providing the best constituent service in Virginia and the Nation. He has been a friendly and effective representative for myself, my team, and my work throughout the First Congressional District of Virginia and the Tidewater region.

I would like to thank AJ for his dedicated service over the last two years. He has been a key member of my district office team, and I wish him and his family the best as he moves on in his journey.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing and thanking AJ Gunther for his service to Virginia's First District and the Nation. May God bless AJ and his family in whatever endeavors he pursues next.