Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 35th anniversary of the Republic of Uzbekistan's independence and to celebrate the strong and growing relationship between Uzbekistan and the United States.

Under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has continued to pursue economic and social reforms while strengthening its relationships with the United States and other partners around the world. I commend President Mirziyoyev for his efforts to advance Uzbekistan's development and expand its role as a leader in Central Asia.

Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1992, the United States and Uzbekistan have built an important partnership based on shared interests in regional security, economic development, trade, and stability.

Today, the United States and Uzbekistan continue to strengthen cooperation through their Strategic Partnership. Our two countries work together on regional security, counterterrorism, trade and investment, and critical minerals. Uzbekistan's strategic location and leadership in Central Asia make it an important partner as the United States works to promote stability and strengthen economic ties throughout the region.

Uzbekistan has also played an important role in the C5+1 diplomatic platform, which brings the United States together with the five Central Asian nations to advance regional cooperation, economic opportunity, and security.

These efforts demonstrate the continued importance of a strong relationship between our two countries.

I am proud to be a friend of Uzbekistan and congratulate President Mirziyoyev and the Uzbek people as they celebrate 35 years of independence. I look forward to the continued growth of the friendship and partnership between the United States and Uzbekistan.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor the life of Barry Klein Clark, who passed away on August 25, 2026, at the age of 60, surrounded by his family and friends in Philadelphia, Mississippi.

Born on December 3, 1965, Barry was raised in Union, Mississippi, by his parents, Chester and Lou Clark, alongside his sister, Lori. He graduated from Union High School and later earned a degree in business from Mississippi State University. An entrepreneur at heart, Barry pursued numerous business ventures before finding his passion in construction and ultimately establishing Viking Metal. His success was built on hard work, personal relationships, and the belief that a handshake and a person's word still meant something.

More than a businessman, Barry was known for his larger-than-life personality, generosity, and unwavering loyalty to those around him. He had a remarkable ability to turn friends into family and was someone others could count on when it mattered most. Above all, Barry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Barry is survived by his wife of 37 years, Melissa Clark; his sister, Lori Clark Porter; his children, Garrett Clark and his wife, Tori; M.E. Myhre and her husband, David; and Peyton Clark and his wife, Olivia; and his grandchildren, Hatcher, Maris, Briggs, Anna Klein, James, Flynn, and Chet.

Barry Clark's devotion to his family, loyalty to his friends, and commitment to his community leave a lasting legacy. We honor his life and extend our deepest condolences to his family and all those fortunate enough to have known him.

Mr. Chair, I start by commending the chairman for his leadership over the committee for the last 6 years.

I am excited to highlight a few of the many wins for the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee in this year's bill.

The committee-reported product authorizes the procurement of the fourth Columbia-class submarine, two Virginia-class submarines, two guided missile destroyers, and two amphibious warships. Combined with incremental funding authority for long-lead time components for the Virginia-class program, multiyear procurement authority for destroyers, and multiship procurement authority for future amphibious warships, we are supporting responsible investments in the future of our surface fleet and in the continued growth of our subsea advantages.

At the same time, we are growing our asymmetric capabilities, investing in transformational and innovative unmanned systems like the MQ-25 carrier-launched unmanned aircraft and unmanned surface vehicles to complement our traditional platforms in a lethal and high-low mix.

The bill also contains parts of the SHIPS for America Act, which will help us down the path to a rejuvenated maritime industrial base.

We are also reinforcing our commitment to our force projection and airborne combat capabilities, with procurement of intra-theater airlift, 12 P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, 6 E-2Ds Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft, a new strategic sealift vehicle, and a bulk fuel vehicle. We also provide authorities for cost savings and a consistent demand signal to industry for a multiyear procurement of E- 2D aircraft, as well.

The challenges of our global security environment are only growing more complex, but what cannot change is our ability to project American power. The technology and platforms may change with the moment, but the end goal remains the same: peace through strength.

This is a strong bill that makes essential steps toward delivering on the promise now and for the years to come.

Mr. Chair, I urge all Members to vote ``yes.'' I also thank my Ranking Member, Joe Courtney, and the staff: Kyle Noyes, Kelly Goggin, Jeanine Womble, Abby Snyder, and my personal staff, Semaj Redd, Shields Armstrong, and our fellow, Marc Mundy for all their hard work.

Mr. Chair, I thank the gentleman for allowing me to speak in favor of the FY27 NDAA.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate Major General John M. Rhodes on his retirement after more than 36 years of distinguished service to the United States Army and the Mississippi National Guard. Throughout his military career. Major General Rhodes demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to serving our Nation.

A graduate of Mississippi State University, Touro University, and the United States Army War College, he held numerous command and leadership positions, including Commanding General of the 29th Infantry Division, Assistant Adjutant General of the Mississippi National Guard, and most recently, Special Assistant to the Director, Army National Guard for 18th Airborne Corps Matters.

Major General Rhodes' retirement marks the culmination of a remarkable career defined by service and sacrifice. From leading soldiers during Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Spartan Shield to mentoring the next generation of military leaders, his contributions have strengthened both the Mississippi National Guard and the United States Army. His exemplary service has been recognized with numerous military decorations, including the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Bronze Star Medal. Beyond his military career, he has also faithfully served the people of Mississippi as General Manager of the City of Corinth Gas and Water Department.

As Major General Rhodes begins this well-earned retirement, we thank him for his decades of faithful service, steadfast leadership, and unwavering dedication to our Nation.

Major General Rhodes' commitment to service exemplifies the very best of the United States Army and the Mississippi National Guard. I congratulate him on an extraordinary career and wish him and his family every success in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Mrs. Louise Lambert Harris, who passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born in Mobile, Alabama, Mrs. Harris attended St. Genevieve of the Pines and later Florida State University. In 1959, she married USAF Colonel Carlyle S. ``Smitty'' Harris, beginning a remarkable partnership marked by faith, resilience, and devotion.

When Colonel Harris was shot down and held as a prisoner of war in Vietnam for nearly eight years, Mrs. Harris courageously raised their three children while supporting POW families and navigating military bureaucracy on their behalf. Her strength and determination sustained her family through one of the most difficult periods of the Vietnam War.

After returning to Tupelo, Mississippi, Mrs. Harris attended nursing school at ltawamba Community College and served as an oncology nurse at North Mississippi Medical Center. She was also a dedicated community leader and played a key role in founding Sanctuary Hospice House, helping establish one of the Nation's first freestanding hospice facilities.

Mrs. Harris is survived by her children, Robin Harris Waldrip and her husband, Ken, Carolyn Harris Cole and her husband, Chris, and Carlyle ``Lyle'' Smith Harris, Jr. and his wife, Cindy; her grandchildren, Reid Waldrip and his wife, Kaylee, Lauren Waldrip Zuelzke and her husband, Jim, Camie Cole, Carrie Anne Cole, USAF Captain Thomas Harris and his wife, Peyton, Blake Harris and his wife, Ali, and Jack Harris; and her great-grandchildren, Sam and Maggie Waldrip, Mary Lyle and Bo Zuelzke, and Hazel Blake and Carlyle Smith Harris, III.

Mrs. Harris leaves behind a lasting legacy of compassion, service, and perseverance that will continue to inspire all who knew her. We are deeply grateful for her extraordinary life and service.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and service of Richard ``Rick'' Allen Haggard, a School Resource Officer with the Lee County Sheriff's Department, who tragically passed away in the line of duty on February 2, 2026, at the age of 52. His passing marks the loss of a devoted public servant, loving husband and father, and respected member of the Mooreville community.

Born on February 5, 1973, in Macon, Mississippi, Rick lived a life defined by integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to serving others. A graduate of Sturgis High School and Mississippi College, Rick demonstrated a strong work ethic from an early age. In 2003, he answered a calling to enter law enforcement, beginning a career dedicated to protecting and supporting his community.

Throughout his service, Rick held several important roles, including Deputy, Animal Control Officer, and School Resource Officer. His work in local schools was especially meaningful, as he was committed to the safety and well-being of students and staff. Rick approached every responsibility with professionalism, kindness, and a genuine desire to help others.

Rick married the love of his life, Jana, on November 11, 2006. His family was the center of his world, and he took great pride in his wife and their two daughters. Rick and his family were also faithful members of Boguefala Baptist Church, where he lived out his values of faith, service, and compassion.

Rick Haggard will be remembered for his servant's heart, his dedication to duty, and the lasting impact he made on his family, his colleagues, and the community he so selflessly served. His sacrifice will not be forgotten.

Rick is survived by his wife, Jana Haggard; daughters, Alex and Ava Haggard; his mother, Susie Featherston Noble, and stepfather, Charlie Noble; and extended family who will cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his father, Larry Wesley Haggard, and other beloved family members.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of Carl Fox Haas, whose passing on January 25, 2026, marked the loss of a respected Mississippian, devoted family man, and influential leader in business, conservation, and community life.

Born on August 20, 1930, in Mobile, Alabama, Fox overcame significant health challenges early in life and went on to graduate from Mississippi State University, where he met his wife, Evelyn. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, integrity, and service in West Point, Mississippi, raising three children and investing deeply in their community.

Fox devoted his entire professional career to Bryan Foods, retiring as Vice President of Procurement. He was widely respected for his leadership, steady judgment, and commitment to conducting business with honesty and trust. A lifelong outdoorsman, Fox was deeply passionate about conservation and land stewardship, contributing to wildlife restoration efforts in Mississippi and later helping shape the culture and growth of Mossy Oak as its Chief Financial Officer.

Fox's influence extended well beyond his professional achievements. His legacy lives on through conservation initiatives, charitable events, and awards that bear his name, as well as through the many individuals and organizations he mentored and supported. Through his family, his community, and the causes he championed, his impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Fox is survived by his wife, Evelyn; his daughter, Shurley (Bill) Sugg; his son, Toxey (Diane) Haas; his daughter, Nina (Page) Davidson; his grandchildren, Sara Frances Haas Stubbs (Vandy), Daniel (Caroline) Haas, Neill (Hillary) Haas, Bill Sugg (Elvita), Gregory Sugg (Jessi), Anne Peyton Sugg, Jessie Davidson Virgin (Kevin), Ellie Davidson Stevens (John Willis), and Jack Davidson; and seven, soon to be eight, great-grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of Richard Eugene ``Gene'' Smith, Jr. of West Point, Mississippi, who passed away on January 16, 2026, at the age of 90. A man of deep faith and quiet courage, Gene was a decorated U.S. Air Force officer, devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

Born January 17, 1935, in Marks, Mississippi, Gene grew up in Tunica and earned the rank of Eagle Scout at age 13. A graduate of Mississippi State University, he was commissioned through the Air Force ROTC program in 1956 and served as a fighter pilot in the F-102 and F-105. On October 25, 1967, during his 33rd combat mission over North Vietnam, his aircraft was shot down, and he endured five and a half years as a prisoner of war, including time in the Hanoi Hilton. He was released during Operation Homecoming on March 14, 1973.

Colonel Smith received two Purple Hearts, the Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor, the Bronze Star with Valor, and the Air Medal. He retired from the Air Force in 1978 and later served as Executive Director of the Golden Triangle Regional Airport and as National President and Chairman of the Board of the Air Force Association.

Anchored by his faith in Jesus Christ, Gene was a longtime member and Elder Emeritus of First Presbyterian Church in West Point. He loved golf, fishing, Mississippi State University, and, above all, time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Rae Smith, and is survived by his wife of 22 years, Lynn Crowe Smith; his children, Kelly Lucas (George), Rick Smith (Pam), Stacy Kellum (Steve), Stacey Miears (Doug), and Erin Holland (Kevin); 11 grandchildren; and seven great- grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, Adam Grubbs was a young man whose kindness made a real difference to everyone who knew him, and his loss is felt by many. He was born in Tupelo and raised in Saltillo by his parents, Mark and Beth, and grew up with the values of his community. At Saltillo High School, people knew him for his good character and for his talent in cross country and baseball, where he earned the Golden Glove Award.

At Mississippi State University, he excelled academically and embraced leadership through Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE) Fraternity, the Interfraternity Council, and the College Republicans. He graduated in December 2017 with a degree in Communications.

I had the honor of welcoming Adam to my team in January 2017. From his early role as a field supervisor in Columbus to his service in Washington, D.C., as a Scheduler and Legislative Assistant, and Legislative Director. Adam approached every task with integrity and enthusiasm. He later served four years as Deputy District Director. Adam was more than a valued staff member; he was like family to all of us. Adam loved history, politics, the outdoors, and people. He was a loyal Mississippi State football fan who followed the Bulldogs closely and enjoyed being part of the MSU community. He found joy in fishing, hunting, mowing, grilling, and golfing at the Olive Branch Country Club.

Above all, Adam was devoted to his faith and family. He cherished his wife, Emma Kate, and their young son, Graham Henry. Their second child is expected in February 2026. Adam's passing is a tremendous loss to his family, to me, to our team, and to the community he served so faithfully. His life was a blessing, and his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Nancy Carole Long of Saltillo, Mississippi, for her many years of faithful service to the music ministry of SMC and for her dedication to music education in the Saltillo community. For decades, Nancy played an important role in the life of the church, and members of the congregation, along with friends and family, recently gathered to honor her upon her well-earned retirement as the church's longtime pianist.

In addition to her service at the church, Nancy has also shared her love of music as a music teacher at Saltillo Elementary School, where she inspired countless students and helped foster an appreciation for the arts at an early age.

Throughout her years of service, Nancy shared her musical gifts with humility, consistency, and a servant's heart. Her music helped

guide worship each week, creating a meaningful atmosphere of praise and reflection for generations of congregants.

In recognition of her lasting impact, the church's newly renovated choir room has been dedicated as the Nancy Carole Long Choir Room, a lasting tribute to her commitment to excellence and devotion to the ministry of music.

Nancy's influence extends beyond her time at the piano and the classroom. Her faithfulness and kindness have left a lasting mark on her church, her students, and the Saltillo community, and her legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding to me.

Mr. Speaker, America is safer today. A narcoterrorist and an illegitimate government leader, Nicolas Maduro, is removed from office and is awaiting trial in the United States of America.

One of the clearest responsibilities of the President is ensuring that those who endanger American lives are brought to face justice. He did just that.

When Nicolas Maduro continued to operate with impunity, President Trump made the decision to enforce United States law and protect our national security interests.

Nicolas Maduro was not a legitimate leader. He was an indicted narcoterrorist who helped turn Venezuela into a hub for drug trafficking, corruption, and foreign influence that directly threatened the United States and our allies. For a year, there was bipartisan agreement on this fact. The difference is President Trump acted.

As Secretary of State Marco Rubio made clear, this was a limited law enforcement action carried out with precision to enforce U.S. laws and protect our homeland.

The message is clear: The Western Hemisphere is our home. It cannot and will not become a safe haven for drug cartels, Iranian proxies, or hostile actors who seek to undermine our security and poison our communities.

This action made clear that the United States is serious about defending our national interests and holding criminals accountable, not through rhetoric but through results.

I express my deep gratitude to the law enforcement officers, servicemembers, and intelligence professionals who carried out this operation. Their discipline and professionalism reflect the highest standards of our Nation.

I thank President Trump for his actions. He did not escalate a conflict. He enforced the law.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for the time.

I want to open by complimenting my friend, Majority Leader Steve Scalise, on the very dapper Ole Miss tie that he is wearing today, honoring the fact that my Ole Miss Rebels beat his LSU Tigers earlier this year.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this year's NDAA. I thank Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Smith for their leadership on the critical acquisition reforms in this bill. I also thank my good friend, Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces Ranking Member Joe Courtney, for his dedication to supporting our naval and projection forces.

America's Navy and Air Force are incredible assets for our country, protecting critical interests and projecting our presence around the world. In the face of increasingly audacious threats to order from adversaries scattered across the globe, submitting the message that America is committed to peace through strength is more important than ever. This year's bill supports and strengthens our ability to continue this noble and vital mission.

This NDAA will add to our fleet of Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines. We are also investing in future procurement of ships and submarines and granting authorities to support our industrial base and improve the acquisitions process for the future.

This year's NDAA also shapes the investment in the transformative power of unmanned vehicles. These are just some of the critical revisions in the NDAA, not just for the Navy of today, but the Navy for tomorrow.

This bill also supports our airborne force projection, raising the minimum number of aerial refueling aircraft, maintaining a strong inventory of C-130 aircraft for intra-theater airlift, and supporting cutting-edge aerial drone programs. As with our ships and submarines, we are paving a smoother path toward building the projection forces of the future.

I thank my staff and the staff of the committee. I thank the gentleman for recognizing me, and I thank my fellow, Commander Bobby Hsu, who did an outstanding job working on this NDAA.

Mr. Speaker, I support this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Lt. Col. Deidre D. Smith, Director of Public Affairs for the Mississippi National Guard. In this role, she provides critical counsel to the Adjutant General and senior leaders on command information, community outreach, and media engagement, ensuring the Guard remains connected to the citizens of Mississippi.

A Hattiesburg native, Lt. Col. Smith has served across the United States, Europe, and overseas in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Throughout her distinguished career, she has taken on leadership roles in Human Resources, Public Affairs, Information Operations, and Equal Opportunity, demonstrating versatility and excellence in every assignment.

Within the Mississippi Army National Guard, she has held several key positions, including State Director of Public Affairs, Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, and Director of Outreach Services. Her dedicated service has earned her numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and the Mississippi Magnolia Cross, reflecting her professionalism and commitment to duty.

Lt. Col. Smith is a graduate of Marion Military Institute, Southeastern Louisiana University, and the University of Oklahoma. She has also completed advanced military education through the Command and General Staff College, the Defense Information School, and the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute. In addition to her military achievements, she was selected for Leadership Mississippi in 2018 and named among the Mississippi TOP 50 in 2022.

She resides in Brandon with her husband, Maj. James Kevin Polk of the 172nd Airlift Wing, and their daughters, Pfc. Harley Smith and Pvt. Lyndi Polk, both newly enlisted members of the Mississippi Army National Guard, continuing their family's proud tradition of service.

Madam Chair, I thank Chairman Rogers whose critical work on acquisition reform with Ranking Member Smith set the foundation for the advances we are making in this year's bill.

I thank my friend and Seapower Ranking Member Joe Courtney for his commitment to bipartisanship and his continued collaboration toward stronger naval and projection forces.

Finally, I thank Kyle Noyes, Kelly Goggin, Phil MacNaughton, and Abby Snyder, the subcommittee staff. I also thank my personal staff, Semaj Redd, and my fellow, Bobby Hsu.

I am excited to highlight a few of the many wins for our national defense in this year's bill. We are adding to our fleet of Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines. We ensure that new sealift vessels will be made right here in America. We are making investments in the transformative power of unmanned vehicles.

We also are advancing support for our airborne force projection needs, investing in aerial drones and antisubmarine sonobuoys, raising the floor on the minimum number of aerial refueling missions, and maintaining the inventory requirement for C-130 aircraft needed for intra-theater airlift.

This year's NDAA also makes key investments in future procurements of ships, submarines, and airborne projection forces. This gives our defense industry the base they need to continue the important work they do in so many of our communities and paves the road for a smoother procurement process going forward.

With global tensions as high as they are, it is more important than ever for America to preserve the ability to project power across even the furthest reaches of the globe, from the Pacific to the Middle East and even the Arctic. Our ability to meet any challenge near or far is critical to homeland defense and advancing our national interests.

This year's NDAA is an opportunity to make essential investments in our ability to project power across the oceans and in the air and to ensure that America's defense remains second to none, now and for generations to come. I urge all Members to support a vote in favor of this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Lt. Col. Deidre D. Smith, Director of Public Affairs for the Mississippi National Guard. In this role, she provides critical counsel to the Adjutant General and senior leaders on command information, community outreach, and media engagement, ensuring the Guard remains connected to the citizens of Mississippi.

A Hattiesburg native, Lt. Col. Smith has served across the United States, Europe, and overseas in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Throughout her distinguished career, she has taken on leadership roles in Human Resources, Public Affairs, Information Operations, and Equal Opportunity, demonstrating versatility and excellence in every assignment. Within the Mississippi Army National Guard, she has held several key positions, including State Director of Public Affairs, Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, and Director of Outreach Services. Her dedicated service has earned her numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and the Mississippi Magnolia Cross, reflecting her professionalism and commitment to duty.

Lt. Col. Smith is a graduate of Marion Military Institute, Southeastern Louisiana University, and the University of Oklahoma. She has also completed advanced military education through the Command and General Staff College, the Defense Information School, and the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute. In addition to her military achievements, she was selected for Leadership Mississippi in 2018 and named among the Mississippi TOP 50 in 2022.

She resides in Brandon with her husband, Maj. James Kevin Polk of the 172nd Airlift Wing, and their daughters, Pfc. Harley Smith and Pvt. Lyndi Polk, both newly enlisted members of the Mississippi Army National Guard, continuing their family's proud tradition of service.