Rob Andrews

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. I congratulate the chairwoman and my friend, Mr. Brady, for bringing to the floor very good legislation that recognizes the value of the best and brightest young Americans competing in the fields of math, science, and innovation. But America is not going to compete very well if we don't solve the budget sequester that surrounds us here today. We're in a global economic competition where we will fall behind if we do not act by this Friday. Beginning this Friday, according to economists, a conservative estimate of the number of jobs lost in our country will be 750,000. There are those who believe that the job loss may exceed 2 million jobs. Now, ladies and gentlemen of the House, there is a proposal in the well before the House that would postpone this job loss. Mr. Van Hollen has offered a proposal that would postpone the sequester and save these jobs and still reduce our deficit by cutting subsidies to huge oil companies who do not need those subsidies, by cutting subsidies to huge agribusinesses who do not need those subsidies, by saying that people who make more than $2 million a year should pay a rate of taxation that does not let them exploit loopholes and other deductions. To date, with the sequester looming, the majority in this House has done nothing to address this problem--not one bill, not one hour, not one debate, not one vote. So we have an alternative, and with this looming problem facing the people of the country, I believe that should be the order of business of the House today. Mr. Van Hollen's bill would end the sequester and reduce the deficit; so I therefore ask unanimous consent that the House bring up H.R. 699 at this time.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Audubon's Boy Scout Troop 88. This troop was founded in 1965 by Eagle Scout Chairman Bob Beetle, along with Al Murray, Joe Kranz, Bill Holland, and Jack Rex. At last Thanksgiving's Audubon football game, the troop and the tireless work of the founder Bob Beetle, was honored as the Troop 88 banner was dedicated and raised at halftime. The true legacy of Mr. Beetle and this troop is the perpetuation of resourceful skills and the instillation of strong leadership values. The boy scouts are an outstanding opportunity for the young gentlemen of South Jersey to develop through service to their community. Troop 88 initiates many projects within the community including: Food Drives and help with the South Jersey Food bank, a 9/11 Ceremony at Mt. Ephriam, railroad clean- ups, the Mansion Ave. school map playground project, and Masons Wheel chair Push in Burlington. On behalf of town of Audubon, and the First District of New Jersey, I want to express my sincere appreciation and pride to have such a great organization operating in my district.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Patriot Club of Cherry Hill High School West. The Patriot Club focuses on bringing together students and members of the local community to honor current and former servicemembers through their Veteran's Day and Donations for Soldiers programs. The Veteran's Day program gives veterans the ability to share their service experiences at schools throughout Cherry Hill. Each November, members of the Patriot Club recruit veterans to take part in the program that gives students the opportunity to gain a better understanding and appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel. The two-month-long Donations for Soldiers program gathers monetary and supply donations from students, parents, teachers, administrators and local businesses of Cherry Hill to create care packages that are distributed to soldiers currently serving in Afghanistan and other parts of the world. In 2012, the Patriot Club recruited five schools to participate in the program, raising more than $4,000 and enough supplies to send 90 care packages overseas. This year, the club will be expanding the program to include all 18 schools in the Cherry Hill district. The goal is to raise $10,000 and to send 200 care packages to soldiers abroad. For the past two years, Ray Horner has served as President of the Patriot Club. Senior Sean Bivins and Junior President-Elect Eytan Gittler have served as Co-Vice Presidents. Officers include Seniors Chris Blandy, Kevin Mullarkey, Sean Mullarkey and Conor McFadden. Freshman Rebecca Horner also volunteers with the club.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Deptford Township Martin Luther King Jr. contest winners. These students, as well as all who participated in the contest, celebrated the life an achievement of one of our nation's most influential leaders. As we advance as a nation, it is of the utmost importance to always take the time to appreciate and reflect upon the figures who sacrificed for the betterment of our country. This annual contest serves as a great reminder of the progress we have made, as well as the struggle that made that progress possible. The following are the winners of this year's Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration contest: Marcus Henriquez, Charlotte Lawrence, Sabrina Mannino, Cara Murphy, Jazmine Tucker, Julianna Wintersteen, Mackenzie Wurst, Ava Yelverton, Ashley Currie, Ingenue McBeth, Faith McCoy, Landon Sentak, Kennedy Davis, Aidan Doerr, Hanna Shein, Darrin Bryant, Carl Carter, Isabella Connearney, Chelsea Moore, Julia Rafferty, Victoria Delgado, Alaina Foy, Emma Fisher, Danica Godshall, Ethan Kindt, Mya Christian, Michael Faulls, Julia Guevara, Yukta Narayan, Simran Kaur, Olivia Voit, Xavier Woods, Briana Culbert, David Maturo, Bellarose Bostwick, Ashlee Jarmen, Malcolm Miller, Zachary Morgan, Morgan Warren, Amaris Bussie, Olivia Jaci, Ileanna Jones, Daisy Schreiner, Jade Rivera, Farrah Sacharok, Ciara Blas, Joshua DeGuzman, Alina Hoover, Jania Long, Juliana Pit, Hailey Fair, Alexandra Lowry, Santos Diaz, Tehya Dickinson, Anaya Jones, Jacqueline Reagan, Emily Reed, Chloe Reyes, Donovan Clement, Brendan Connor, Gianna McIntyre, Tianna Smith, Rocco Laltrella Bruce, Asiya Robinson, Kimberly Sorbello, Marco Viloria, Gianna Wolfe, Olivia Devine, Camryn Ransom, Hunter Young, Colin Schumacher, Angel Mangini, Nicholas Marengo, Hailey Parker, Sydney Shute, Ashley Baresich, Christopher Deeley, Jaiana Ray, Ashley Scheld, John Cooper, Megan Grace, Nathan Jackson, Mariela Dimalaluan, Deziree Faith Johannesen, Devon Moss, Millicent Sannoh.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I doubt very much that anyone in America is sitting around today saying, I hope Congress sets up another fiscal cliff; I hope they put us in a position again where no one knows what's going to happen the next couple of months. We ought to listen, but that's what we are doing with this bill. We should listen to the President who said this: Unfortunately, Congress consistently brings the government to the edge of default before facing its responsibility. This brinksmanship threatens the holders of government bonds, those who rely on Social Security and veterans benefits. Interest rates would skyrocket, instability would occur in financial markets, and the Federal deficit would soar. The United States has a special responsibility to itself and the world to meet its obligations. We should listen to this President. Ronald Reagan said this in 1986. In 1986, the Congress listened to him, extended the debt ceiling, and acted responsibly. So should we. This legislation sets up another fiscal cliff, another financial nightmare, another problem for the American people that we should avoid. I urge all Members to vote ``no.''

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Madam Speaker, an owner of a software company is deciding whether to hire more people today, a manufacturer is deciding whether to buy a new piece of equipment, a restaurant owner is deciding whether to add more tables and jobs to her restaurant. In order for them to decide to grow, they need to know there's going to be a stable financial environment. What we're doing today is saying to those decisionmakers, don't worry, the government is going to pay all of its bills until May 19. After that, we're not sure. The way to reduce the deficit is, yes, fiscal restraint and adding revenue, but the way to reduce the deficit is to grow jobs in this country. The people who decide to grow jobs in this country will not make that decision in an atmosphere of financial chaos. This bill creates another fiscal cliff. Fiscal cliffs are the problem, not the solution. The solution is economic growth. Let's oppose this bill and oppose yet another unnecessary and contrived fiscal cliff.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. I thank my friend for yielding, and I thank the chairman of the Appropriations Committee and my friend for working together to bring this product to the floor. I've heard two objections to this bill. The first is that money is spent in the wrong places, and the second is the amount of money altogether is too costly. Let me try to address those objections. As to the money being spent in the wrong places, I would respectfully request that Members who have that objection read the legislation because, throughout the legislation, when it refers to the money to be spent, it says that the moneys are to be spent on necessary funds related to the consequences of Hurricane Sandy. Now, there is one exception to this that I've read, and it is limited to situations in which there were prior disasters that are not yet cleaned up. So this is a bill that deals almost exclusively with the Sandy disaster, and to the extent it does not, it deals with lingering problems in other parts of the country from those disasters. To those who would argue that the amount of money in the bill is just too much to begin with, I would offer you this question: If you were running a business and had 100 manufacturing plants and sales offices around the country and 15 of them were shut down by a storm--so 15 percent of your available revenue was no longer available to you--what would you do? You'd repair those 15 manufacturing facilities and sales offices as quickly as you could in order to restore the health of your company and the growth of your revenues. That is exactly what this bill does. The taxpayers of New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey--three States--contribute more than 15 percent of the individual and corporate tax revenues collected in the United States of America--15 percent from three States. If you shut down that engine of production, the whole country suffers. This is an occasion for the House of Representatives to rise above normal parochial politics.

Mr. ANDREWS. When the disaster struck the gulf, we were all Mississippians or Louisianans. When tornadoes hit Missouri, we were all Missourians. When there have been earthquakes that have hit the west coast of our country, we have all been citizens of California. We are asking Members from coast to coast and throughout our country today to look at themselves and walk in the shoes of New Yorkers and the citizens of Connecticut and New Jersey. If we understand that we have a common purpose, that this legislation does focus almost exclusively on the Sandy disaster, and then focuses what it does not focus on Sandy on other disasters, and if we understand that 15 percent of the economic engine of this country is at risk of being shut down, then we will all be people who cast the same vote and the right vote, which is ``yes.''

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. I thank my friend for yielding. Seventy-eight days ago, a tremendous force of fury hit the northeastern region of the United States. Today we make an act of national interest. This is not an act of excess or an act of charity. For those who claim that there is excess in this bill, I would suggest that they read it. Throughout this bill, the bill says that the spending is limited to ``necessary expenses related to the consequences of Hurricane Sandy.'' This is throughout the text of the bill. This is not an act of charity. These three States--New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut--these three States pay almost 16 percent of the taxes collected in the United States of America. Three States, 16 percent of the taxes. You ask the question: Who suffered because of Superstorm Sandy? Certainly our neighbors in New York and New Jersey and Connecticut suffered the most, but all Americans will suffer if this economic engine is not rebuilt. The three States that pay nearly 16 percent of the taxes need this reconstruction, and so does the United States of America. All Members, Republican and Democrat, should vote ``yes'' in favor of this legislation.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Madam Speaker, the delay in helping the victims of Hurricane Sandy is obviously inexcusable and unjust, but it's equally obvious that the time has come to do what we can to help solve the problem. That's why I'm for the passage of this bill today. It will, in fact, help flood insurance claims be honored and paid so that people can go about the work of rebuilding their homes. We've heard about the January 15 vote that is coming on the rest of the plan. I think we shouldn't be holding out false hope about that because here's the reality: I'm certain we will vote on January 15. Of course, the Constitution says the other body has to vote too. They have to start all over again, and then the President has to sign the bill. It is my strong hope that the leadership between now and January 15 will reach out to the leadership of the other body and try to prenegotiate a bill that the Senate would quickly and expeditiously take up so we can solve this problem. The House taking a vote on January 15 is lovely. It is also utterly meaningless if the other body does not act.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, we're here this morning for the fellow citizens who didn't put up a Christmas tree or light a menorah or celebrate their holiday at home this year because they have no home. We're here for the boardwalk merchants who are not going to be starting their businesses up again this Memorial Day along the boardwalk because there's no business, and there's no boardwalk. We're here because a lot of people's lives are devastated. It's important to understand what we are and are not asking for. We are not asking that every Member of this Chamber follow our lead and vote ``yes'' in favor of the bill the Senate has already passed. We are simply asking that every Member of this Chamber have the opportunity to vote on that bill. President Kennedy said governing is choosing. We are prepared to choose an investment in the recovery of our neighbors and our country. We respect those who would make a different choice, but we cannot abide by those who would say they would make the choice of doing nothing at all, letting the clock run out on this Congress, which means that we'd have to start all over again. The people I talked about for whom we are here this morning, they need to start all over again. They need to get back to their homes, back to their businesses, back to their lives; and as we delay, we delay that possibility for them. Every Member has the right to exercise his or her own conscience on any piece of legislation. No Member has the right to deprive the rest of us of the same opportunity for our constituents. We should meet today. We should vote today. We should move forward today.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this legislation and commend Mr. McKeon and Mr. Smith for their leadership in making it happen. Most importantly, this legislation takes care of the people most important to us--the men and women in uniform who will receive a pay raise under this legislation. Second, it maintains our competitive edge in technology as we look for new ways to defend our country and improve our situation around the world. Third, I believe very strongly this bill affirms the Constitution of the United States; makes it clear that nothing in any statute, including this one, in any way subverts or undercuts the Fifth Amendment due process rights of any person under any circumstances. For these reasons, I would urge my friends both on the Republican and Democratic side to vote ``yes.''

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, the Republican majority needs to do what Americans do every day in labor negotiations and real estate offices and other places around this country, and that's to negotiate rather than simply restate their position. The President asked for higher tax rates on income above $250,000, and he compromised and moved it up to $400,000. The President started with a spending cut number that was $500 billion or $600 billion, and he moved it up to $1.2 trillion. And he included within that a very controversial proposal dealing with Social Security increases. The President has compromised. The Republicans once again are simply regurgitating their same old position, a tax provision that has a $50,000-a-year tax cut for millionaires and a tax increase for 25 million working families, including servicemembers and their children, and a proposal that cuts jobs on transportation projects, daycare centers, and nursing homes across the country. We should stop wasting our time on one-sided bills, follow the President's lead, lift our sights higher, and negotiate. That is the way out of this conundrum. And I would urge my friends on the majority side to stop pontificating and start negotiating.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. I thank my friend for yielding. I am immensely proud of the service and sacrifice of our men and women in Afghanistan. They have done a great job in defending our country, and our hearts go out to all of them who are serving, or who have served, for the greatness of their service. I am one who believes that the time to bring them home is a lot sooner than later. I'd like to see them all come home as soon as possible. When they do, it's important that, as we leave Afghanistan, we leave an imprint of a value that is not just an American value but, I think, a value of humanity around the world and, that is, that your opportunity to thrive in a community should not be determined by your gender. It is astonishing to most Americans, but it was the reality for most female Afghans that during the rule of the Taliban, for a young girl, a visit to a school put her life at risk. A girl who dared to try to go to school was risking a violent assault or even death. I am very proud of the fact that our military leaders, our civilian employees, and brave Afghans have worked very hard to change that fact. Today, Afghan girls are in school, and Afghan women are serving in positions of authority and leadership and education and health care and government and commerce in Afghanistan. As we make the transition to Afghan security in that country, let us make sure that the transition to full human rights for women and girls continues in that country. That is the purpose of this motion to instruct, and it is gratifying that Members of both political parties have spoken up in favor of this very basic principle. Being a girl or being a woman should not subject one to violence or short-change one's opportunities. I am proud to support this motion. I certainly hope that, as we go forward with this bill, the principles of fairness and equality will be included.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, there's a lot of disagreement about the future of our country. There's disagreement over how to handle spending--what should be cut, what should be reduced, what should be increased. There's disagreement over how much and when to raise the debt ceiling. These are very important questions. There's a disagreement over whether taxes should or should not go up on income over $250,000 a year. Our friends on the other side in good faith believe that's a bad idea. We know the economic history tells us that the last time the rates were at the level of 39.6 percent, 600,000 new businesses were formed and 23 million new jobs were created, so we think it works. But there's something that everyone says they agree on, and that is that income up to $250,000 a year should not have a tax increase. Everyone on both sides says that when January 1 shows up on the calendar there shouldn't be a tax increase on the middle class people of this country, that their first paycheck on the first Friday of the New Year should not have more taken out of it so as not to hurt our economy or hurt those families. Now, we all say we agree on this. It seems to me the right course is to put a bill on the floor that says exactly that, that says that for income of less than $250,000 a year, the tax rates for every American should stay where they are now and there should not be a tax increase. My friend from Texas says that the majority did that in July. That's not quite right. What the majority did in July was to keep the rates low for people making less than $250,000, but also keep them low for people making more than $250,000. We just don't agree with that. Why don't we take the 98 percent that we agree on and vote on it right now?

Mr. ANDREWS. I thank my friend. If we don't do this, 19 days from today 98 percent of the American people--really 100 percent of the American people--get a tax increase. They have more taken out of their checks. It will hurt shoppers in the stores, diners in the restaurants, it will hurt jobs across the country. So why don't we take the 98 percent that we agree on right now and put it on the floor right now. By voting ``no'' on the previous question, that's what we can do and should do.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the beloved Mario Guilio Musciano, Sr. of Somerdale, New Jersey who passed away on Friday, November 23rd, 2012. Born and raised in Camden, Mr. Musciano's life has been an inspiration to the citizens of South Jersey. As a United States Army veteran, he served with distinction during World War II, rising to the rank of sergeant as he fought to protect the freedoms that we all, as Americans, cherish. He survived the December 7th attack on Pearl Harbor and has, for over a decade, been an honored speaker at the annual Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony held aboard the USS New Jersey. A self-employed entrepreneur, Mr. Musciano owned and retired from the Sterling Tile Company of Somerdale, NJ. He was counted a member of both the Lion's Club and the Pearl Harbor Survivors' Club, and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He will be sorely missed. Mr. Speaker, Mario Guilio Musciano was a great man who exemplified the American spirit. I join the people of Somerdale and all of South Jersey in honoring the life of this exceptional man.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Taiwanese government who has so generously donated $1.3 million to the Superstorm Sandy relief effort. The donation will be divided between the State Governments of New Jersey and New York, the City of New York, as well as the United Way International and Habitat for Humanity International. Although the media coverage and national attention on Superstorm Sandy has subsided in the wake of new stories, the impact of the storm continues to be felt by New York and New Jersey citizens. I am moved by this tremendous act of solidarity from our friends thousands of miles away, and I would like to officially recognize this gesture in hopes that the consideration and empathy displayed by the Taiwanese may serve as a reminder to others that this plight is still ongoing. On behalf of the 1st district of New Jersey, the State of New Jersey, and the American people I would like to extend sincere thanks to the Taiwanese people for this act of kindness.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the forty-five volunteers who have dedicated their time to commemorating the 71st anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack. These volunteers have been working tirelessly throughout the year to prepare for the Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony held in December in Camden, New Jersey aboard the USS New Jersey. The volunteers who have helped prepare the USS New Jersey for this historically-significant event are a necessary element in the production of the ceremony honoring those who were present that fateful day. Their selfless hard work and devotion to honoring the 71st anniversary of Pearl Harbor should not go unnoticed. I join the citizens of Southern New Jersey, members of our military, as well as friends and family in congratulating these volunteers for a job well done.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the volunteers of Stand Down of South Jersey. These volunteers dedicate their time and effort year-round to aid homeless veterans in communities across the state of New Jersey. The culmination of Stand Down's efforts is an event held annually at the Army National Guard Armory in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Each year, this event is a place where veterans go for haircuts, receive assistance in applying for government support, guidance on employment and job training opportunities, health-related counseling, and more. At the event, held in September, Stand Down aided and supported approximately 278 homeless veterans from the area as a result of the volunteer efforts. In addition, volunteers have collected winter coats, blankets, and other supplies that they donated to the Marine Corps League Detachment 796 at Toms River. The tireless efforts of these volunteers should not go unnoticed. I join the citizens of Southern New Jersey and the veterans in our community to thank these volunteers for their continued hard work and dedication to this important cause.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I was not present for votes in the House of Representatives on November 15, 2012. Had I been present, I would have voted in the following manner: Rollcall No. 606 for H. Res. 808, had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.'' Rollcall No. 607 for Senate Amendment to H.R. 2453, had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Greek Orthodox Church of St. Thomas. The month of October 2012 marked the 45 year anniversary of this tremendous parish. Nearly a half century ago, a small group of Greek Orthodox from South Jersey saw a need for a church to serve the Philadelphia metropolitan area and its New Jersey suburbs. This parish has been paramount in reaching out to the Southern New Jersey community, teaching the Greek language and heritage, and sharing the traditions of the Greek Orthodox faith. Perhaps most worthy of praise are the number and variety of group organizations the church provides. Among them are the ``Philoptochos,'' a philanthropic society for lady parishioners who are committed to serving the sick, destitute, elderly, and others in need of assistance. The Hellenic Heritage Dance Group teaches youth the traditional dance of Greece. From the Hellenic Orthodox Primary Enrichment, HOPE, a group devoted to the early introduction of kindergartners to the Orthodox fellowship to the Maturity Club for senior citizens, all ages are able to meet and celebrate their faith through church outings, meaningful discussion groups, retreats, service projects, and athletics. Let us commemorate, on the record, the Church of St. Thomas in its 45th year of operation for the invaluable service it provides to the Greek Orthodox faith and the South New Jersey community at large.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the heroic response efforts made by the men and women of the American Red Cross. The destruction caused by Superstorm Sandy devastated those living along the Atlantic coast. During this state of emergency, many lost basic utilities like electricity and heat, access to food and water, and a safe shelter. The impact of the storm is still felt by many residents as they return home and attempt to regain some semblance of their normal life. For over 130 years, the American Red Cross has served as an independent international humanitarian organization. Simply put, the members of the Red Cross are first responders, who in the wake of emergency, voluntarily enter dangerous environments so that the risk to others may be lessened. Before Sandy made landfall, the Red Cross opened shelters, stockpiled supplies, and organized workers. More than 3,800 Red Cross disaster workers are currently assisting in the relief effort. Since the storm hit, thousands of people have found shelter and over 200,000 meals and snacks have been served. West Deptford High School, in my home district, transformed overnight from a school into a place of refuge, with beds, a children's playroom, and an adult recreational hall. The true value of these gallant workers extends far beyond the tangible goods and services they provide. Above all, it is their palpable presence, their reassuring smile and words of kindness--being the crutch which props up those who are ready to collapse. As their mission so eloquently and accurately states, the American Red Cross ``prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies.'' Please join me in honoring these tireless workers and remember that while the Red Cross prides itself on being a nonpartisan and independent organization, it also relies on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the winners of the Historical Society of Winslow Township's Veterans Day 2012 Student Essay Contest. These nine students, in the 7th and 8th grades at Winslow Township Middle School and 12th grade at Winslow Township High School, wrote on what the word ``freedom'' means to them in their hearts. The moving prose of these young men and women is a testament to the patriotic spirit of the citizens of South Jersey and an inspiration to all Americans. For that reason, Mr. Speaker, I submit the following for the Congressional Record: Kelli O'Neil, 7th Grade, 1st Place Winner By definition freedom is; the power to determine action without restraint. But freedom means monumentally more than that to me. Speech, expression, faith these are only a few of the stripes on the beautiful rainbow that is freedom. Freedom is what sets America so high above the rest, what makes it such a beautiful place to live. Every Sunday, millions of Americans go to church. Imagine if these millions of people were in a different country. Practicing their own religion may not be legal. Whilst this goes on for myself and to most Americans going to church feels like such a simple liberty. As an adolescent female I am still in school getting an education and plan to continue through college. Now let's pretend I am in some other country for example. I would not be in school, I would be home doing housework caring for my siblings. Back in America I am permitted to wear whatever clothing I wish to wear; however, in some countries I shouldn't even show my own hair. All of these wonderful rights that I do have are given to me simply because America values freedom. Our flag flying through the air sings of freedom. And the graceful eagle soaring through the heavens screams freedom. Every day, I look at the things I do and wear and I am truly grateful for America and all of its freedoms. I have the privilege of being in an honors writing class, and in this class I write exactly what I think and feel about any and every thing without fear of punishment by law. I cannot say the same for many other children in foreign countries. In these countries writing the way they feel about things like laws, politics, and leaders can result in great punishment. Without the freedom to express how I feel I don't know how I would survive. My opinions are who I am, and they are a piece of me. Lee Greenwood once said, ``proud to be an American Where at least I know I'm free, and I won't forget the men who died who gave that right to me.'' This is so incredibly true, and I would like to take this moment in time to put the spotlight on the soldiers who have passed away, our veterans, and our soldiers who are currently serving because they are the sole reason for all of these fantastic freedoms that me and my fellow Americans have today. So, in conclusion, freedom is the biggest blessing ever bestowed upon the American people, and it is not to be taken for granted. Deanna Paul, 7th Grade, 2nd Place Winner The first 10 amendments of the Constitution, or the Bill of Rights, set priceless rights and freedoms that Americans may enjoy. There is a rather large variety of them, ranging from the freedom of speech to just the right of traveling anywhere you want in the nation. If you were to look in the dictionary for the word ``freedom'', you'd probably find that it means ``free to do something or free of something'', or anything within those lines. That'd be correct. The many freedoms that we as Americans have should be treated like gifts, as they are. However, our freedoms are often misused now, in a way our forefathers didn't intend them to be. For example, the freedom of speech, which is the freedom to say our opinions as long as they don't cause any harm to others, is now being used to bully and cause mental pain to citizens by Americans who want to cause trouble. Nevertheless, our freedoms are still gifts and worth protecting. The many veterans who have fought for our country by sacrificing themselves, whether they were killed or wounded physically or mentally in battle or returned home intact, should and are respected by our nation. They fought or are fighting at the moment to keep things the way that they should be, to protect the millions of Americans who have the access to the freedoms in the Bill of Rights. Without those brave men and woman, we might not be the way we are today, as we would be vulnerable to other countries who mean harm to Americans because of our freedoms and policies. Personally, I'm so used to these freedoms that they seem ordinary and unimportant, but after reading so many articles about the lifestyles and other events occurring in other parts of the world, I feel extremely lucky--and proud. I've learned that not all countries are lucky enough to have the same rights and freedoms that we are able to have, and that's worth protecting. While practicing these freedoms throughout your ordinary lives, remember: They're special. People are out there fighting; just for us to feel safe while exercising those rights we were given. Be grateful. Use them the way they were intended to be used. And most importantly, respect our veterans. Sarah Marshall, 7th Grade, 3rd Place Winner Freedom is a lot of things. To an American citizen it is a privilege. To a mother in a dictated country it's a hope. Or to a government figure it is a law. But no matter what it means to different people, the definition of freedom will always be the same to me; a right. Freedom can come in all different forms. For example; you could have freedom of speech, freedom of expression or freedom of religion. With freedom, I can speak out against almost anything (including our political and government system); I can choose and practice my own religion without fear of being abused or jailed, and so much more. Freedom is an important part to a great country. In my opinion, everyone should be allowed to have freedom. It's not right to be killed or abused because of what you believe in or say. Some people take things like freedom, life and rights for granted. Not me. I will always remember that it is a huge privilege that a lot of people don't receive. I will also keep in mind not to abuse my rights and freedom because people died for it. They died for you and me, and everyone else in America to be able to express ourselves without risk. To have my rights taken away would be a dishonor. And I really hope that everyone who does have freedom realizes that. In some countries, you can actually be shot at just for speaking your mind. A real life example of that is of a young female citizen from Pakistan. In Pakistan, they are currently fighting for women's rights. A young lady spoke her opinion on women having education and she was shot. This reminds us that we are lucky, Those of us in America wouldn't have been shot; we probably would've been rewarded. lf the young women had been from the United States that tragic situation would never have happened due to the fact that women already have the right to education. If you asked a professor what freedom means to them, the answer would be a thousand miles long. The answer is so long I couldn't fit it in this essay. But if it somehow wasn't clear how thankful I am for it, going to put it like this; Freedom is something to be thankful for. You should pray to your (a) god for it, discuss it at thanksgiving dinner, and visit the graves of those who died for it. You never know, thousands of miles away someone might be praying for the freedom you already have. Akaash Patel, 8th Grade, 1st Place Winner Freedom . . . Such a small word for a very meaningful definition. Every day of our lives we are presented with this right. However, what exactly does freedom mean to you? To me, freedom means the moral principle of being able to choose how you live your life. Before freedom we were told what to believe in. We had no say so on what our lives would be like. However, we, as a united nation celebrate and declare freedom; not as a privilege but as a right. Our forefathers fought for the right of freedom. They put their lives on the line for the sake of other people's rights. We should always be grateful that our founding fathers gave us freedom. Moreover, we should constantly honor America's veterans and active military. They have and are putting their feelings for this country into actions, not words. A picture paints a thousand words. USA has many veterans coming back from Afghanistan. Some have come back from Vietnam. Some are even coming back from top priority missions that they enlisted in. However, all of these men and woman have one definite thing in common, their reason. All war veterans' reason for fighting always traces back to freedom. They believe in freedom and know deep in their heart what it means to them. America's veterans were, are, and forever will be dedicated to freedom. I think that freedom is a very unappreciated right. As a kid I woke up every day able to believe in what I wanted to. I was born into my religion. However I was not necessarily forced to accepting it. This was the perfect world our country's founders, veterans, and active military had created for me and everyone else to share. In spite of this, we truly do not honor this right enough despite the immense value it holds. You never miss something until you lose it. In conclusion, freedom is essential in people's lives. We are free to choose any religion, believe in what we want, and do what we want. This entitlement to every US citizen keeps this country intact. In contrast, we would have never had this right unless our veterans and active military had not protected this sacred allotment. To sum it up, thanks to our brave and bold veterans and our courageous active military we live our lives and cherish freedom. Harleigh Mae Burke, 8th Grade, 2nd Place Winner In the 1700's, when our founding fathers began sculpting the Constitution of our nation, there was one thing they all agreed on: Freedom is a right all people should be given from birth, and the work they do under this liberty is how they earn their fortunes. To earn a fortune and be successful under this freedom is what is known as the American Dream. What few know, however, is that freedom is not a gift to all humanity, but an exclusive to only some. It is thanks to the forethought of the founding fathers, the continued cooperation of the United States Military, and above all the passion of the people which keeps our freedom alive today. However, this begs the question, what is freedom, and what precisely does it mean? Freedom, to me, is not merely the ability to do as you please, when you please, as long as it does not impose upon others. Freedom is the lifeblood of humanity, what enables man to live and prosper and change the World for the better. Not everyone is gifted with such a thing, and some of the idealists and geniuses and potential reformers of our generation will not get a chance at this, and will live their lives in oppression, cast aside by their governments as another mere pawn in their machine of simple parts. Freedom manifests itself in every aspect of American life, from the business you built up yourself, to the house you own, to the education your children earn. Freedom is business, the arts, what has allowed the United States to develop a culture unlike any other. To such aforementioned countries who lack the glorious endowment of liberty, our United States, with its military towering high in our defense, and fame, and above all, the ability for any mere man to forge a life of empire-like status, is not only a desirable place to be, but a utopia Where anything can happen. And so, I ask of you, look at yourself, what you have, and what you've done. Think for a moment of where you would be if you were assigned to a life, told what to think, what to feel, what to do. Would you be where you are? Would you have what you've achieved? This distinction is freedom, and freedom is the United States, its military, and its people. Eleni Finkelstein, 8th Grade, 3rd Place Winner Imagine coming to America from another country. You see a flag billowing with pride in the front yard of a happy family's house. The whole family was unique. Different clothes, different hobbies, but they were all having a good time. You begin to wonder why your family could not be happy back home or have those smiles on their faces. Your life was bland; a dry piece of toast, just like everyone else's. Then you realized it was because you weren't given individuality. To me, freedom means having the right to be an individual. In other countries, you don't always have the freedom that we have in America. Often, you cannot dress how you'd like, say what you'd like, or do what you'd like. There was no uniqueness at all. Here in America though, we have that ability to be me. I can proudly say that in America, I can be me. Have you ever wanted to pursue an interest but you weren't allowed? Your whole future could've been already planned if you found a job using that special hobby! This situation may happen continuously in other countries, but not in America! America has the freedom to let you do what you want. There is such a vast field of occupations you can work in here. You don't have to be just a factory worker, or forced to go into war. I could grow up and make a living out of the weirdest job in the world, only because I have the freedom to do so. Now switch places for a moment. Instead of picturing you coming to America, picture yourself leaving America to go to war. Veterans are extremely grateful for the freedom we have in our country because they know what it's like in other countries. When they go to war in another country, they are sometimes adapting to that country's life style for a small amount of time. They turn into them. They may be forced to act like everyone else in that country. They are simply a replica of the person standing next to them, across from them, all around them. Then, when they return back to America, they get to experience the excitement all over again. All of the freedom comes back to them. Once again, they can say what they please, do what they please, and be who they please. It is clearly shown that America has the freedom that other countries don't because they can be who they are. ``Individuals, with liberty and justice for all.'' These are the words that ring on my head when I think of our country. We really are the land of the free, because we can be individuals. Emily Ostrander, 12th Grade, 1st Place Winner I have always been a fan of Veterans Day. Of course, this is mostly because November eleventh happens to be my birthday as well as a national holiday. But, I have continually enjoyed and respected it for the appreciation and recognition it bestows upon those who have made it their duty to protect and serve this noble country. Freedom, to me, is the ability to live peacefully, and be who you want to be, in a world that is not very accepting. Without our armed forces, the idea of freedom would be impossible. With no one to serve our country, fight our battles, where would we be? I cannot imagine what life in America would resemble if it were absent of freedom. It would not be the America we know and care for if it were devoid of liberty, justice, and independence. Both of my parents' fathers served in the armed forces at some point in their lives. My maternal grandfather served in the Korean War and came back home with a bullet in his leg. Every year when he calls me to wish me a happy birthday, I make sure to thank him for that service and tell him that I am proud of him for it. Thus, I am exceptionally grateful to the active military and the veterans who have risked their lives for the sake of freedom at this very moment, and in the past. Furthermore, serving in the military is the most significant occupation in the world, yet it is also the toughest. Copious amounts of U.S. citizens spend or have spent massive amounts of time away from their families and loved ones to carry out their obligations to this country. I know I could by no means ever accomplish or begin to go through what veterans and the active military have had to undergo. I have enormous respect for those with the strength and courage to join the armed forces, and they will forever have my support and admiration for their achievements. Because of these achievements, I am able to live freely and peaceably whereas citizens in other countries may not be able to live this way. Hence, I believe freedom is the idea that you have the power to choose what and who you desire to be: you can decide what to strive for and what to accomplish in life. However, this free will is only achievable because of the work of the active military and veterans. This immense, courageous, life- risking group of people deserve, have earned, this national holiday to commemorate their successes and brave service to the United States of America. Hope Barnstead, 12th Grade, 2nd Place Winner Freedom. Only seven letters, but together they create a word with more power than any other found in the English language. But how can such a commanding word be defined? The beauty of this word is that it has countless definitions. Freedom is the courage found in every active service member as they start every day not knowing what is in store for them. Freedom is seeing our American flag waving steadily in the night, surrounded by a sky full of bombs. Freedom is bowing your head in prayer at the park without fear of being reprimanded. Freedom is the last pen to leave a trail of ink for the final signature on the Declaration of Independence. Freedom is living in America, the land of opportunity, where we have the right to choose our own president amongst a world full of tyrants. Throughout history freedom has always come at a great price, starting in 1776, when the founding fathers declared our independence from Great Britain. These men laid their lives on the line to defend the belief that all men are endowed with certain definitive and undeniable rights that cannot be taken from them. From that time on, Americans have stood united behind the idea that we are a nation of individuals who are free to live in the absence of fear. Since we value individuality and illuminate it through self expression and self-government, we need not fear forced conformity, and that is what makes America great. Freedom to me is waking up every morning without apprehension. I don't have to worry about being a woman and wanting an education. I don't need to hide my religion from those around me because I know I am free to worship as I please. I don't have to be afraid of who will lead our country because we have a say in who runs the United States of America. Without the dedication, bravery, hard work, courage, strength, and leadership of our nation's military and other service members, this freedom may not have been sustained. It's hard to imagine the feeling the soldiers felt as they walked into concentration camps to liberate the living skeletons as the stench of burning flesh filled the air around them. Who can picture what is what like weaving through the jungles of Vietnam as the soldiers were constantly on guard for any Vietcong looking to take their lives? How can one come close to feeling the absolute terror of the US army as they traveled to Pakistan to take down the terrorizing Osama Bin Laden? Our troops are willing to sacrifice their lives so we can stay in a nation that lets us live ours. Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, ``We, and all others who believe in freedom as deeply as we do, would rather die on our feet than live on our knees,'' and we are blessed enough to live in a country that gives us that freedom. Adam White 12th Grade, 3rd Place Winner When you hear the word ``freedom,'' you might not have the same definition of the word as the person right next to you. All definitions of the word are similar in meaning, but all are influenced by each of our own past history and ways of thinking. I have thought extensively on this word's definition, pondering on what ``freedom'' means to me, and I now believe that freedom is the ability to live life normally and enjoy it without the fear of oppression or harm. Many of us take this for granted. In other countries, their citizens might not have this same luxury. We, as a nation, are very lucky to live life like this. Unfortunately, it can come with a heavy price. We have been able to live this way only because we know that we are being protected by hard- working men and women who wish only to serve our nation. These men and women are the members of the Armed Forces. Each and every day, they risk their lives to protect ours no matter where they are, whether they're in a small town in the U.S. or a small town in the Middle East. They make sure that nothing happens to us so that we can continue living the way we do. However, as mentioned before, such a luxury comes with a price. Some members of our active military are lucky enough to return home with their lives, but some aren't. Yet this has not stopped people from joining the military in the past before. In World War II, when the world was threatened by one of the most infamous leaders in history, did we surrender? We did not, and hundreds of thousands of people were ready to defend our country and what we believed in, even if it meant traveling overseas, or being haunted by the gruesome memories of war for the rest of their lives, or to die trying. Our veterans faced these same consequences and have to hurdle over the same obstacles, and that didn't stop them from doing their duty. They protected us to make sure that we could forever keep our freedom and our rights from the hands of our enemies. We have much to thank of our veterans and of our active military for their services to this country and for their services to us. Without them, we would not have the same freedoms as we do now. Our world would be completely different without them. But thankfully they are here to save us when we need them most. Thankfully, with these men and women as our guardians, we can continue to live life normally and enjoy it without the fear of oppression or harm.

Mr. ANDREWS

Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Joseph Hammell, a retiring veteran who has served in three separate branches of the U.S. Military. Mr. Hammell began his career with the United States Marine Corps in 1969 when he was 17 years old. After training, he was stationed at Camp Pendleton, California before being deployed to Okinawa, Japan, the Philippines, and Vietnam. After his service with the Marine Corps ended in 1974, Mr. Hammell joined the U.S. Army. During his time in the Army, Mr. Hammell was stationed at Fort Dix, New Jersey where he worked as an instructor at the base's truck driving school. In 1977, he left the Army, but came back after 14 years to join the New Jersey Air National Guard. In the Air National Guard he was a member of the 170th Air Refueling Wing. Within the Wing he served as an equipment operator for the 170th Civil Engineering Squadron. After the 170th Air Refueling Wing disbanded, he was absorbed into the 108th Air Refueling Wing where he continued his service as an equipment operator. He served within the 108th Air Refueling Wing as a member of the 108th Civil Engineering Squadron until 2007 as a work controller. He then moved to the 108th Safety Office where he finished out his career as the 108th Ground Safety Manager. In addition to his service, Mr. Hammell is an active member of the American Legion and the Marine Corps League where he is a tireless advocate for homeless veterans. Specifically, he has worked with and supported the Stand Down for Homeless Veterans for 16 years, a nonprofit organization that assists male veterans who are struggling due to mental and/or physical ailments, addictions, homelessness and/or other personal issues. It helps veterans regain their lives through a multi-tiered program, transitional living, and collaborative efforts. Mr. Speaker, the extraordinary commitment of this New Jersey veteran should not go unrecognized. I join all of South Jersey in expressing our profound gratitude and thanks for Mr. Hammell as he retires from his more than 42 years of remarkable service to our country.