Sam Graves

Mr. Speaker, on this day, I missed a series of votes. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 284 and YEA on Roll Call No. 285.

personal explanation

Mr. Speaker, I missed a series of votes today. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 282 and YEA on Roll Call No. 283.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Dan Fordice, a veteran, businessman, accomplished warbird pilot, and patriot, who devoted his life to serving others, preserving our Nation's military history, and honoring America's veterans.

Dan approached every chapter of his life with a strong sense of duty and purpose. His 13 years of service in the United States Army and Mississippi Army National Guard shaped the leadership and patriotism he later brought to his family business, the construction industry, historic aviation, and his work supporting veterans. Throughout his life, Dan remained guided by his faith, his family, and his commitment to giving back.

Following his service, Dan continued his family's legacy at Fordice Construction Company, serving as Vice President until his retirement in 2023. He followed in his father's footsteps by serving as National President of the Associated General Contractors of America from 2022 to 2023. His leadership brought people together throughout the industry and ensured contractors of every size had a voice.

As an accomplished warbird owner and pilot, Dan demonstrated his deep appreciation for aviation history through the operation and preservation of World War II-era and other historic aircraft. He served on the Commemorative Air Force General Staff Board of Directors, proudly flew his P-51D Mustang, Charlotte's Chariot II, and helped return the original C-47 That's All, Brother to Europe for the 75th anniversary of D-Day. Through these remarkable aircraft, Dan helped bring history to life for countless Americans.

Dan's dedication to America's veterans extended far beyond the cockpit. He founded the Southern Heritage Air Foundation to preserve veterans' stories and educate future generations about their service and sacrifice. In 2013, he founded the Warrior Bonfire Program to support post-9/11 Purple Heart veterans through fellowship and opportunities for healing and recovery. Whether flying a historic aircraft, listening to a veteran's story, or leading the construction industry, Dan served others with conviction, compassion, and humility.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dan Fordice for his service to our country, his leadership in the construction and aviation communities, and his lifelong dedication to America's veterans. His legacy will live on through the historic aircraft and stories he preserved, the veterans he supported, the organizations he helped build, and the countless people he inspired. My prayers are with his family and all who knew and loved him. May Dan have blue skies.