Steve Austria

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District, I rise today to recognize Ms. Margaret Arnold for her induction into the Greene County Women's Hall of Fame. Ms. Arnold along with five other candidates was selected from a pool of many worthy women to receive this honor, and thus, she was nominated for her great endeavors in the fields of Public Education and Government. Ms. Arnold was elected to the Beavercreek Board of Education in 2000 and is still an active on the board. Under her leadership the district passed an $80 million dollar bond issue to build two new buildings in an effort to serve the rapidly growing population of the community. This was the first new school construction in 40 years. While it did take three attempts to gain the support of voters on the issue, she kept fighting for it until the plan was passed. She continues to play a key role to make sure the 2010 strategic plan is implemented properly. Further, Peg was awarded the Educator of the Year award by the Beavercreek Chamber of Commerce. At the same time, Peg is a certified level three acquisition professional and has been a highly successful and valued government employee at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base for over 30 years, in the contracting field. In 1994, Peg was named one of the top 100 Federal Government Employees by Federal Computer Magazine. Thus, with great pride, I congratulate Ms. Margaret Arnold and wish her well in her service to the community.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District, I rise today to recognize Ms. Macy Reynolds for her induction into the Greene County Women's Hall of Fame. Ms. Macy Reynolds along with five other candidates was from a pool of many worthy women to receive this honor, and thus, she was nominated for her great endeavors in the field of Horticulture. Ms. Reynolds, a teacher by profession, taught in Mad River Schools and as an adjunct at the University of Dayton. Becoming a Master Gardner in 1998, she has taught many educational programs and volunteered in many public gardens all over Greene County. An Ohio certified insect, weed and tree specialist, Macy has removed invasive species from various locations around Greene County while also working hard to restore prairies by harvesting and planting seeds in their natural areas. Macy also put together an educational program for the Miami Valley Juvenile Rehabilitation Center in Xenia. The resident youth attend gardening classes, plant and care for the garden. The produce from these gardens are then donated to the local Fish Food Pantry. She is also a founding member of the Midwest Native Plant Society and has worked to maintain the Women's Park in Yellow Springs where she also serves as secretary of the Tree Committee. Ms. Macy also was Greene County's first representative to the Heritage Garden Ambassador Program. Thus, with great pride, I congratulate Ms. Macy Reynolds for her exemplary service to Greene County and extend best wishes for the future.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deep concern about today's vote in the U.N. General Assembly regarding Palestinian statehood. This unilateral attempt by the Palestinians is not in the best interest of the United States. It is not in the best interest of Israel--our closest ally in the Middle East. And, in my opinion, it is not in the best interest of the Palestinian people. Any decisions regarding Palestine's statehood must come in conjunction with security for the Israeli people and multilateral talks with Israel. Today, as the world watches the actions of the United Nations, I plant my feet firmly on the side of the Jewish State of Israel, and express my unwavering support for their country and security. Israel stands as a beacon of hope in a region of the world where democracy and freedom are in short supply. With our continued friendship, we can ensure that Israel has the support and resources needed to continue on as a banner of freedom and democracy in the Middle East.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District to congratulate Colonel Mike ``MR'' Roberts on the occasion of his change of command and retirement and for his outstanding service to our Nation. Colonel Roberts is to be recognized for his outstanding command of the 178th Fighter Wing, Springfield Air National Guard from January 5, 2008 to August 21, 2011, and upon his retirement after more than 29 years of dedicated service to the United States and the United States Air Force. Colonel Roberts received his commission in 1982 upon his graduation from the U.S. Air Force Academy. After graduation, he completed Air Force Pilot Training with an assignment to fly the A-10 Thunderbolt. Following his A-10 assignment, Colonel Roberts went on to fly the AT-38 and various models of the F-16C, while stationed in numerous locations including: New Mexico, Florida, Arizona, and Torrejon Air Base in Spain. While assigned to Torrejon Air Base, he deployed and flew combat sorties in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Colonel Roberts was shot down over downtown Baghdad on January 19, 1991 and spent six weeks as a Prisoner of War until combat operations ceased and he was released in March of 1991. In 1996, Colonel Roberts was assigned as the Active Duty Advisor to the 178th Fighter Wing, Springfield Air National Guard. In 2000, he resigned from active duty and was commissioned into the Ohio Air National Guard. As a member of the Ohio Air National Guard, Col. Roberts held numerous leadership positions, culminating as the Commander of the 178th Fighter Wing, Springfield Air National Guard Base. Colonel Roberts' command of the 178th was simply outstanding, as evidenced by his winning the 2010 Ohio Adjutant General's Commander of the Year Award. He won this award for his invaluable contributions to the families of the 178th by ensuring all of their needs were met while maintaining a 100 percent deployment cycle and a changing mission set that required a complete retraining and reassignment of many of the Wing's personnel. His ``people first'' style of leadership helped lead the 178th Fighter Wing through a successful transition from an F-16 Training Wing, including international students, to an Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Wing flying the MQ-1 Predator. During this transition, the 178th completed all sortie requirements, totaling more than 5,800 flying hours with zero mishaps. Colonel Roberts is a Command Pilot with over 5,000 flying hours, and has received numerous Department of Defense Awards, including the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, and Prisoner of War Medal. For his tireless service and strong dedication to our Nation and the world's greatest Air Force, I join the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District in extending our congratulations for a mission well done and a huge thanks for his many years of service. We wish him and his family the very best in their future endeavors.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District to honor the life and memory of Congressman Clarence Ellsworth Miller. Congressman Miller began his extensive and prolific public service career in 1963 when he was elected mayor of Lancaster, Ohio. During that time, he was also very active in the National League of Cities and the Ohio Municipal League. Congressman Miller was also a member of the executive committee of the Mayors Association of Ohio. In 1967, Congressman Miller was elected to represent Ohio's Tenth Congressional District where he served for 26 years. Congressman Miller always represented his constituents with pride and integrity. He understood his southeastern Ohio district and fought vigorously to ensure that his constituents' needs were constantly being met. Congressman Miller was well known for being a staunch fiscal conservative. While in Congress, Congressman Miller gained respect for introducing bills that were aimed at reducing spending but still meeting the obligations of our Nation. He was awarded a Treasury watchdog award every year he was in Congress because of his great concern with regard to the national debt and overspending at the federal level. Throughout his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Miller served on several House committees including Appropriations, Agriculture, and Public Works and Transportation. Additionally, he served as vice chairman of the Office of Technical Assessment and served on a special committee which forced other countries to reimburse the United States for costs associated with the 1991 Gulf War. Congressman Miller dedicated much of his time in Congress to the Armed Forces. The Congressman worked tirelessly to ensure that all branches of the military had the resources they needed to protect this great Nation. He respected all men and women in uniform and admired their dedication and bravery. Representative Miller further impacted Lancaster and Fairfield County by serving on the Board of Directors for the YMCA and Red Cross, and devoting time and support to public officials in the area. In honor of Congressman Miller's influential and selfless efforts to the community, the Lancaster Post Office was renamed after him as well as the county health department building. Congressman Clarence Ellsworth Miller truly was a fine example of what all members of Congress and those in public service should strive to become. After a long life of dedicated public service, Clarence Ellsworth Miller, 93, passed away on August 2, 2011. Congressman Miller was preceded in death by his wife, Helen, and left behind a son, Ron, daughter, Jackie, five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and two stepgrandchildren.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District to honor the life and memory of Mr. Mitchell Cary. Cary, 64, was a retired United States Air Force Colonel and test pilot. He worked as an Air Force Civil Servant at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Regrettably, Cary was piloting the Wright ``B'' Flyer's Silver Bird look-alike when a mishap occurred that led to his passing on Saturday July 30, 2011. Mitch had a passion for flying, and over the course of his military career and into retirement, he flew more than forty-five types of Air Force, Navy and Army aircraft. Mitchell Cary grew up near Hamilton, Indiana on a farm, graduating from Purdue University, the Air Force Institute of Technology and the University of Dayton. At the time of his passing, Mitch was a board member, volunteer and former president of Wright ``B'' Flyer Inc. of Dayton. This is an organization that flies and displays look-alikes of the Wright Brothers' first production airplane. Mitch had a passion for preserving and promoting the heritage of the Wright Brothers and the Birth of Aviation. He took their story of innovation around the world. Thus, today I ask my colleagues to join me and the constituents of the Ohio's Seventh Congressional District in honoring the life, legacy, and memory of Mr. Mitchell Cary.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District to honor the life and memory of Mr. Don Ray Gum. Gum, 73, was a Professional Engineer and was employed at Wright- Patterson Air Force Base. Regrettably, Gum was piloting the Wright ``B'' Flyer's Silver Bird look-alike when a mishap occurred, resulting in his passing on Saturday, July 30, 2011. Gum received his degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati and his Master in Science from The Ohio State University. Gum served as Branch Chief in the Simulation Techniques Branch of the Air Force Human Resources Laboratory, in the then-Flight Dynamics Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. He also served his community as a member of the City of Beavercreek Planning Commission. After retiring, Gum spent time doing what he loved most, building and flying planes and spending time with his family. He worked hard at promoting the legacy of the Wright Brothers through volunteering his time as a pilot and as an aircraft builder with the Wright ``B'' Flyer Inc. Don was a pilots' pilot and took the story of the Wright Brothers and the Birth of Aviation around the world. Thus, today I ask my colleagues to join me and the constituents of the Ohio's Seventh Congressional District in honoring the life, legacy and memory of Mr. Don Ray Gum.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District to honor the life and memory of Congressman Clarence Ellsworth Miller. Congressman Miller began his extensive and prolific public service career in 1963 when he was elected mayor of Lancaster, Ohio. During that time, he was also very active in the National League of Cities and the Ohio Municipal League. Congressman Miller was also a member of the executive committee of the Mayors Association of Ohio. In 1967, Congressman Miller was elected to represent Ohio's Tenth Congressional District where he served for 26 years. Congressman Miller always represented his constituents with pride and integrity. He understood his southeastern Ohio district and fought vigorously to ensure that his constituents' needs were constantly being met. Congressman Miller was well known for being a staunch fiscal conservative. While in Congress, Congressman Miller gained respect for introducing bills that were aimed at reducing spending but still meeting the obligations of our Nation. He was awarded a Treasury watchdog award every year he was in Congress because of his great concerns with regard to the national debt and overspending at the federal level. Throughout his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Miller served on several House committees including Appropriations, Agriculture, and Public Works and Transportation. Additionally, he served as vice chairman of the Office of Technical Assessment and served on a special committee who forced other countries to reimburse the United States for costs associated with the 1991 Gulf War. Congressman Miller dedicated much of his time in Congress to the Armed Forces. The Congressman worked tirelessly to ensure that all branches of the military had the resources they needed to protect this great nation. He respected all men and women in uniform and admired their dedication and bravery. Following his service in Congress, Representative Miller further impacted Lancaster and Fairfield County by serving on the Board of Directors for the YMCA and Red Cross, and devoting time and support to public officials and the area. In honor of Congressman Miller's influential and selfless efforts to the community, the Lancaster Post Office was renamed after him as well as the county health department building. Congressman Clarence Ellsworth Miller truly was a fine example of what all members of Congress and those in public service should strive to become. After a long life of dedicated public service, Clarence Ellsworth Miller, 93, passed away on August 2, 2011. Congressman Miller was preceded in death by his wife, Helen, and left behind a son, Ron, daughter, Jackie, five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and two stepgrandchildren.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer a tribute poem to the brave men and women who were wounded while serving our country--our Wounded Warriors at Walter Reed Army Medical Center: 100 Years . . . Throughout all that heartache . . . And all those most swollen tears . . . And all of that most courageous courage, so seen here . . . From battlefields of honor bright! From far across those distant shores, those fights . . . From deep blue oceans of yore . . . And all of those heroes, up in those air wars . . . Who on land, air and sea . . . Army, Navy, The Air Force, Coast Guard and the United States Marine Corps . . . Have all brought their Brothers and Sisters In Arms, to Walter Reed . . . To Heal! To rebuild where none lies left! With but only their fine hearts to bless . . . As it was all here, that they so received . . . But The Very Best, at Walter Reed! Doctors and Nurses and Therapists, Soldiers and Social Workers on this great list . . . Who have but faced the worst, who have but passed that test! Cheating death, with but only their most courageous quests . . . With years of training and devoting, to complete their most noble of notions! But to heal only our very best! With only their skills and most courageous hearts, no less . . . Against All Odds, they would not rest . . . This Battle, Their Valiant Quest, to win that night so yes! Day In and Day Out . . . As their fine hearts to them, so shout . . . Not to give up, nor give in . . . For this is how miracles all begin! All out here on the cutting edge . . . As their fine hearts are but all so pledged . . . So pledged, but to heal! To an oath so true, so real! To Men and Women without arms and legs . . . Who without eyes and faces, as to them so pray . . . And yet, with the stress of each new day . . . How stoically, all of them have made their ways . . . But, a thank you is all they ask . . . As they've seen all of those Mothers crying . . . Out in the halls, with all that pain and heartache . . . asking why then? Surely, there is no denying . . . Holding a young man's hand, until he lays dying . . . As their fine hearts and souls, so trying . . . And yet, they go to work each day . . . Asking not much more, then to win those battles great . . . To save our most precious heroes, all in their light! With the Gift of Life, they ask but for one more night! As each and all, are but quiet heroes in God's eyes . . . As it's in private that they now so cry! As they go out all about their jobs each day . . . Attention, to themselves, they'll not pay . . . As it's to save precious life, for which they pray! And when that light once again begins to shine . . . They must now draw a new battle line! To rebuild . . . to somehow instill . . . With Hope, the very will . . . all in a fine hero's heart to live! And somehow to start all over again! To ready them to rejoin that fight, or to try to start a brand new life . . . As it's clear, that they've done as much to help win all those wars! At Walter Reed, have come . . . Such magnificent men and women, our daughters and sons . . . Who to death will not heed! All because they so believe! All those lives, and all those stories . . . And all of those children who'll now know the glory . . . That glory of having a Mom and Dad, and who one day may grow up to be . . . An Angel, saving lives at Walter Reed!

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, our Nation is facing a debt crisis that threatens our economy, our national security, and our children's future. This administration continues to borrow and spend money we don't have. They just don't get it. Our debt crisis is not because of taxing too little, but a result of Washington spending too much and pushing the bill to the American people, both now and for future generations. Our children will owe approximately $45,000 to our creditors, and that's unacceptable. I know folks back home in Ohio and across this Nation are tightening their own belts and must live within their means. It's time the Federal Government does the same with Americans' hard-earned tax dollars. The solution begins with the Cut, Cap, and Balance bill--cut spending now, live within our means by capping future spending, and move towards a balanced budget amendment. Mr. President, we have a debt crisis and it's time for a plan now.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District to honor the city of Beavercreek's retired Police Chief John Turner for his commitment and years of service to public law enforcement. Police Chief Turner began his law enforcement career in 1976 as a dispatcher with the Beavercreek Police Department. The following year he was hired on as a full-time police officer and later assigned to the Investigation division working as a detective until 1990 when he was promoted in rank as Sergeant. Chief Turner also served as the Team Leader and Tactical Commander for the Regional Emergency Response Team and then as an Administrative Sergeant, Public Information Officer, Accreditation Manager, Budget Coordinator, Grants Administrator and Assessor for the Commission for Accredited Law Enforcement Agencies, (CALEA). In 2003, he was promoted to the rank of Captain and then served as the Operations Commander for the Patrol Division until he was promoted to Chief of Police. To strengthen Chief Turner's education and performance as a law enforcement official, he attended Sinclair Community College where he graduated with his Associates Degree in Criminal Justice and then later attended and graduated from the Ohio Police Executive Leadership College. He also received certifications from his attendance at Northwestern University Traffic Institute's School of Police Staff and Command as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy in Quantico, VA. Chief Turner has received many commendations and awards recognizing his faithful and dedicated service to the community. In 1986, the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Aerie 321 recognized Chief Turner as ``Policeman of the Year.'' He has received accolades from the Beavercreek Rotary, the Noon Optimist Club and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. In 1990, he was nominated by the Green County Victim Witness Division for the prestigious Silver Star Award and was later selected by the members of his police department to receive the Beavercreek Police Department's ``Leadership/Integrity Award'' in 2006. Chief Turner is a Beavercreek, OH, native and lifelong resident. He and his wife, Linda have two sons, Tim and Tom. Thus, with great appreciation, I congratulate Chief John Turner on his retirement and commend his exemplary service as public law enforcement official and extend best wishes for his future retirement.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Brigadier General Richard A. Hersack for his outstanding service to our Nation on the occasion of his retirement. On behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District, I am honored to congratulate Brigadier General Hersack upon his retirement as Command Surgeon of the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. His 28 years of dedicated service to the citizens of our Nation and our community is both admirable and commendable. Hersack received his commission in 1983 upon his graduation from the St. Louis University School of Medicine. As Command Surgeon, he was the principal medical adviser to the AFMC Commander, promoting the health and well-being of 84,000 military and civilian personnel. He is responsible for the medical policy implementation and treatment execution at eight medical treatment facilities and the U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, totaling more than 435,000 beneficiaries. Additionally, he oversees operational medicine research, development, education and training programs conducted at the Air Force Research Laboratory's 711th Human Performance Wing. Over the course of his distinguished career, he served at Wilford Hall Medical Center as the Arthur B. Tarrow Chairman, Department of Anesthesia. General Hersack was one of the original developers of the Mobile Field Surgical Team and the Critical Care Transport Team. He deployed in response to the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, and operations Joint Endeavor and Assured Response. General Hersack also commanded the 51st Medical Group, 51st Fighter Wing at Osan Air Base in South Korea. Prior to his most recent assignment, he served as Chief of the Medical Readiness Policy and Operations for the Air Force Surgeon General, overseeing all Air Force Medical operations and deployments worldwide. General Hersack is also a Chief Flight Surgeon with more than 900 flying hours, and 25 combat missions in the C-130 aircraft. For his many years of service to our Nation, I join the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District in extending our best wishes upon his retirement and ongoing success in all future endeavors.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to say a few words about today's guest chaplain and my dear friend and fellow Ohioan, Dr. Mark A. Smith. Dr. Smith is a leader in faith-based education throughout Ohio and also an important leader in Pickaway County. Since coming to Ohio Christian University in 2005, he has expanded the University's enrollment from 380 to more than 1,750 students. He has helped fund and build over $10.5 million of projects and led the development of many off campus sites. Dr. Smith was also appointed by former U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Paige and served on the Fund for the Improvement of Post Secondary Education Board, which managed more than 400 million dollars of projects. Dr. Smith has experience in nearly every level of education, and he has taught several undergraduate and graduate classes in education, business, leadership, and religion. Prior to coming to Ohio Christian University, he was Vice President for Adult and Graduate Studies at Indiana Wesleyan University for five years. Under his leadership, his division grew from an enrollment of 2,500 students to nearly 10,100 students. Though he has been anxiously engaged in education his entire life, Dr. Smith has also made community service a priority. In fact, he currently serves on my Economic Advisory Team, and I rely on him for advice to improve our economy and higher education in Ohio. He has lead many community projects and assisted in building education programs for the African-American community. He also served as treasurer of the Pickaway County Community Foundation. Though he has proved to be an astute businessman that has successfully grown his University, Dr. Smith remains first and foremost a man of great faith. Dr. Smith is marred to his wife Debbie, and they are the parents of two sons, Douglas and Micah. While serving as an administrator for Management Resources Incorporated at Hopemont Hospital in Terra Alta, West Virginia, Dr. Smith served as senior pastor of the Terra Alta Wesleyan Church and was Assistant Superintendent for the West Virginia District. He has published scores of articles for professional and church organizations, and coauthored ``Leading a Change in Your World'' with Larry Lindsay. Dr. Smith graduated with a Bachelor of the Arts degree from Hobe Sound Bible College in West Palm Beach, Florida. He attended Kansas University's Graduate School, and graduated with a Master of Science degree in college teaching from Northeastern State University. In 1995, he graduated from West Virginia University with a Doctor of Education degree, with a dissertation titled: ``The Role of the College President.'' Later, he completed Harvard University's Institute of Educational Management for Executive Management. I appreciate Dr. Smith for taking the time to be with us today, and thank him for his thoughtful prayer and the kind words he shared.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Chair, on rollcall No. 393, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' Amendment Offered by Mr. Sherman

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District, I have the privilege of recognizing Douglas Ray Barr for his more than 32 years as a veteran of the fire service and 21 years as a veteran of the Violet Township Fire Department, and honoring his many accomplishments prior to his passing on February 27 of this year. Douglas Ray Barr was born to Daniel and Julia Barr on July 20, 1958, in Pleasantville, Ohio where he grew up with his two younger brothers Keith and Brad. A gifted athlete, he played multiple sports at Fairfield Union High School as well as collegiate baseball at Otterbein University. After college, Douglas followed his love of working with kids by teaching students with learning disabilities at his alma mater, Fairfield Union High School, and P.E. at Pleasantville Elementary School before entering the fire service in 1978. Doug began his firefighting career with the Pleasantville Fire Department and the Newark Air Force base where he volunteered for 12 years. He began working at the Violet Township Fire Department in 1990 where he was promoted to Lieutenant in 1996, and Assistant Chief in 2008. Doug was extremely active in the community as well. He was very active in organizations such as the United Way, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce and the Central Ohio Fire Chiefs Association, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, and the Fairfield Union Local School District board of education where he served as a member from 2002 to 2009. He was also an instructor for the Ohio Fire Academy and Eastland Vocational School for fire and EMS training. Among his numerous achievements, Douglas received the American Red Cross Safety Hero award in 2006 and was a two-time recipient of the Knights of Columbus Blue Coat Award for his invaluable contributions. On Sunday, February 27, 2011, Douglas Barr passed away at the age of 52, at Fairfield Medical Center surrounded by family and friends. We are all eternally grateful for the countless hours he spent during his 24 years of service. Douglas Barr was a man dedicated to his friends, family and community. His family remembers him as always putting others first and for the pride he took in his job as Assistant Fire Chief. Douglas Barr has been regarded as selfless, courageous, driven and flexible by his friends and co-workers. It is these attributes that make Douglas Barr truly representative of America. Douglas Barr will be remembered for his selflessness, his bravery and for his life of service to his community.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. I want to thank Mr. Turner for yielding and offering this very important amendment. You know, it's especially critical, as we continue our work in the House of cutting unnecessary spending and bringing transparency and accountability for taxpayer dollars, that we have an amendment like this in place. And this amendment, again, simply asks the Department of Defense and the Air Force to provide that same transparency. The Air Force is merging, as we heard, two important areas of logistics with the Enterprise Logistics Systems, ELS, and the Enterprise Information Systems, EIS, into a new portfolio known as the Business Enterprise Systems Portfolio. Again, this amendment is simply saying, as you make this merger, as you combine these two different portfolios, do a cost- benefit analysis. EIS, which includes activities such as ECSS and others, has been shown to be cost efficient and much needed to modernize the Air Force's logistics and information technology systems and services. ELS currently manages some very large programs at Wright-Paterson Air Force Base and Gunter Annex. There are approximately 1,000 jobs, including military, civilians, and contractor employees within the Enterprise Logistic Directorate. Asking the Department of Defense to provide a cost-benefit analysis of their decision to combine these portfolios makes sense. To respond to the comment of this being a costly study, this study will provide Congress the same transparency and accountability of taxpayer dollars that we here in Congress are being asked. And I support the Air Force's plan to become more efficient, but we need to make sure that there is a good business case and that these moves actually are efficient and are in the best interest of the taxpayers.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Brigadier General Joseph A. Lanni for his outstanding service to our Nation on the occasion of his retirement. On behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District, I am honored to congratulate Brigadier General Lanni upon his retirement as Commander of the Air Force Security Assistance Center at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. His over 31 years of dedicated service to the citizens of our Nation and our area is both admirable and commendable. Lanni received his commission in 1980 upon his graduation from the U.S. Air Force Academy. As Commander, Air Force Security Assistance Center, General Lanni was the focal point for administering the Air Force's $92.7 billion security assistance budget supporting foreign military sales to more than 96 countries, operating more than 6,000 aircraft and other major weapons systems. Over the course of his distinguished career, he served as an operational fighter pilot, aggressor pilot, and experimental test pilot. He also commanded a classified Flight Test Squadron and the 412th Test Wing. Additionally, he directed the F-22 Combined Test Force, and served on the Headquarters Air Force and Joint Staff. Lanni is a command pilot with more than 4,700 flight hours including the F-22 and 90 different types of aircraft and classified prototypes. For his many years of service to our Nation, I join the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District in extending our best wishes upon his retirement and wish him ongoing success in all future endeavors.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Lieutenant Colonel Richard Rosa, for his outstanding service to our Nation and the United States Air Force. It is an honor to join the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District in congratulating Colonel Rosa upon his relinquishment of command as the Commander, 763rd Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. Colonel Rosa commanded the largest operational RC-135 Squadron, with over 200 Airmen flying combat Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and other operations as directed by the National Command Authority. Under Colonel Rosa's command, the squadron flew over 740 combat missions, totaling over 8,300 combat hours with an astounding 104% mission effectiveness rate. These combat missions provided unparalleled intelligence collection while providing direct support to 113 different incidents of troops in ground combat action, over 26,500 tactical intelligence reports, and over 6,500 locations of enemy troops passed to coalition ground commanders. Undoubtedly, these combat intelligence missions had a direct impact on recent operations. Additionally, under his command the 763rd ERS was identified as the number 1 of 18 units assigned to the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing. For his strong dedication of service to our country, I join the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District in extending our sincere thanks for a job well done and welcome him back home to his family friends. Always on the hunt!!!

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Ohio's seventh congressional district, I am honored to recognize Mr. Phillip C. Houston for his 32 years of dedicated service to Greene County and congratulate him on his recent retirement. Phil Houston grew up in the Akron area. He received his Bachelor's Degree from Olivet Nazarene College and a Master of Public Administration from Central Michigan University. Throughout his 23 years as Director of the Department of Development for the Greene County Board of Commissioners, Phil has seen the department form into a full-service economic development organization that provides services in: small business loan assistance, structured retention and expansion, tourism, and housing down-payment assistance and education. Originally, Greene County hired Phil to direct its annual $3 million comprehensive Employment and Training Act Program, funds that were in jeopardy of being revoked by the U.S. Department of Labor. Within two years, Phil had remedied all the problems and his department was acknowledged for having taken appropriate steps to course-correct. Thanks to Phil's stewardship, the county generated a fundamental Economic Development Plan, and worked with the four cities, six villages and 12 townships throughout Greene County to consolidate their efforts to improve the county. In just the past few years, more than 40 projects ranging from infrastructure improvements to community building renovations and code enforcement have been accomplished through Greene County's Community Development Block Grant Program with Phil's oversight and direction. Though he has made a career for himself in public service, Phil still managed to give back to his community as a volunteer. He has been involved with the American Economic Development Council, the Small Business. Administration, and the Dayton Area Technology Network. He has served as a member of the County Budget Review Committee, County Adult Day Care Board, County Jail Advisory Committee, Greene County Board of Education Business Advisory Committee, and the Adult Education Committee for Greene County's Career Center. Phil's efforts have not gone unnoticed, and he has received numerous awards throughout the years. Some of these include the Governor's Excellence Award for Innovative Economic Development and the Ohio County Superintendent's Association's Outstanding Leadership award in 1992. He was also named Greene County Adult Education Volunteer of the Year in 1990 and NAIOP Public Official of the Year for Dayton in 1991. Additionally, Phil has received five National Association of Counties, NACO, achievement awards for: increasing sales opportunities; intergovernmental cooperative efforts; cutback management; accessibility for the disabled; and assistance to the homeless. Phil and his wife, Teresa, have two children, Erika and Brooke, two grandchildren and a third on the way. Phil's decades of service have proven him to truly be the epitome of selflessness and commitment. He has demonstrated sincere dedication to providing prosperity and knowledge to Greene County. It is his exemplary efforts that assist the progress of our nation in fairly and efficiently protecting our citizens. Thus, with great pride, I commend Mr. Phillip C. Houston for his commendable service to the community and extend him the best throughout his hard-earned retirement.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Madam Speaker, I would like to thank Chairman Rogers for his hard work and his leadership to finally get us here, to finally get a package before us that should have been done last year that officially ends the stimulus spending binge that funds our troops, that represents the largest non-defense cuts in actual spending in American history with nearly $40 billion in real cuts. Certainly, many of us would have liked to have seen more cuts included in this final package; but as the Speaker mentioned earlier, unfortunately, Republicans only control half of one-third of the Federal Government. And until the Senate Democrats and the administration and the President decide to get serious about stopping the borrowing and cutting spending, we're never going to achieve the spending cuts that the American people have demanded. So what does this CR mean for us today? For starters, it means approximately $40 billion of less borrowing. This package sets the stage for trillions more in spending cuts that we will vote on later this week. It reduces our own budget here in Congress by $100 million. It defunds four of the administration czars. It fulfills our commitments to our troops by fully funding our men and women serving our country--many in harm's way--during three wars. This CR provides critical, necessary resources for veterans, health benefits, and resources to reduce the backlog. And it fully funds our commitment to Israel--one of our most important allies--while cutting nearly $78.5 billion from the President's 2011 budget. Madam Speaker, is this a perfect spending cut package? No. But it is a real $40 billion start towards the 2012 budget bill that will begin reducing trillions in spending and begin digging out our Nation from unmanageable budget deficits and putting our Nation on a path to prosperity once again.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. I thank the chairman for yielding and for his great leadership. Madam Speaker, just a reminder as to why we are standing here again debating another CR on this floor is because the Democrat leadership in the last Congress did not fulfill the most basic function that we have in the United States Congress, and that is passing a budget or a single appropriations bill. As a member of this Appropriations Committee, I am pleased that today we have a CR bill that will have another $12 billion worth of cuts and that, as importantly, will fully fund the Department of Defense for the rest of this fiscal year. It was 47 days ago that we passed a bill in this House that would have kept government open, that would have cut $100 billion from the President's 2011 budget and would have fully funded our troops through the end of 2011. Any bill we pass must include full funding for our men and women serving in our military. I represent Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, one of the largest Air Force facilities in the country, and they could be forced to furlough many of the 27,000 military, civilians, and contractors.

Mr. AUSTRIA. We have to pass this CR budget with the military component included.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, while we can never fully express the depth of our appreciation for those who give their lives to protect us, I rise today on behalf of the constituents of Ohio's seventh congressional district to recognize and honor the life of Army Staff Sergeant Joshua S. Gire. Gire, 28, lived a purposeful life. He served the United States with honor. Regrettably, it was Staff Sergeant Gire's duty as a soldier defending the interests of this great country of ours that lead to his death. He was killed in combat in Afghanistan on March 22, 2011. Staff Sgt. Gire showed exceptional courage and bravery while defending the United States. Joshua S. Gire graduated from Huntington High School in 2000 and enlisted in the Army in 2001, just prior to the terrorist attacks of September 11th. This was Gire's second deployment to Afghanistan. He also served time in Iraq and Kosovo. Staff Sergeant Gire comes from a family dedicated to military service. He followed his grandfather, a World War II veteran, and father, a Vietnam veteran, into the Army. He had recently been promoted to Staff Sergeant. Gire was based in Germany before his deployment to Afghanistan, where he lived with his immediate family. Staff Sergeant Gire is survived by his wife Jackie, as well as their 5-year-old son Nicolas and their daughter Riley, who just turned 3. Those who know Staff Sergeant Gire speak highly of him, saying he is a role model to young children, and that he did his job and he did it right. My heart goes out to his widow and their children. Joshua S.Gire is a true hero who will never be forgotten. Thus, today I ask my colleagues to join me and the constituents of the Ohio's seventh congressional district in honoring the life and memory of Staff Sergeant Joshua S. Gire.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the constituents of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District to recognize and celebrate the grand opening of the new Fisher House located on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Ohio. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is the birthplace, home, and future of aerospace, but most people are not aware that it is also the birthplace of compassionate care housing in the Department of Defense. The base opened the Nightingale house in May of 1990 by converting a base house, making it the first compassionate care house in all of DoD. In 1991, Zach and Elizabeth Fisher were asked to build one Ronald McDonald type house at Bethesda Naval Medical Center, Maryland. What started as a request to build one house has blossomed into a network of 53 compassionate care locations world-wide. Although both Zach and Elizabeth have passed on, their legacy continues today through their nephews and grandnephews. The Wright-Patterson AFB Fisher and Nightingale Houses provide an opportunity for wounded, injured, and ill military men and women and their families to stay together and support each other while undergoing medical treatment. Guests do not pay for their stay in one of the homes. Furthermore, each house has a wonderful staff and volunteers who provide loving support and ensure all of their needs are met. In 2010, the two Wright-Patterson AFB houses assisted more than 600 families from all branches and components of our Armed Forces, and more than 10,000 families since the opening of the first home nearly 22 years ago. The new Fisher home opening today is a 10,000 square foot single story home, with 12 bedrooms, 12 handicapped accessible bathrooms, formal living room, large family room, large kitchen and dining room, and expanded laundry facilities. This new home will give Wright- Patterson an additional 1,460 bed nights a year, bringing the entire capacity to 7,665 bed nights a year. Thus, today I ask my colleagues to join me and the constituents of the Ohio's Seventh Congressional District in celebrating the grand opening of Wright-Patterson AFB's new Fisher House and Compassionate Care Facility.

Mr. AUSTRIA

Mr. AUSTRIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people of Ohio's Seventh Congressional District to honor the life and memory of Barbara Ann Zajbel. As a former Xenia business woman and Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce executive, Barbara Zajbel was known as one of Xenia's most loyal, positive and significant leaders. Those who met or knew Barbara benefited from her uplifting attitude and abundant warmth. As a dedicated and faithful community servant, Barbara encouraged and motivated others through personal example. Over the years, she spearheaded countless community projects that required hundreds of hours of community service. She would not only organize the projects but would also work with volunteers to perform the necessary tasks in order to make the events successful. Both Barbara and her husband, Tom, are particularly remembered for their 15 years or so of commitment to and involvement with the annual Xenia Old Fashioned Days Festival. From arriving to Xenia in the late 1970's, Barbara devoted her life to service organizations like Rotary, civic groups and boards, education committees and governmental projects. She served on boards of numerous organizations, such as Greene County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Xenia Educational Endowment Fund, Miami Valley Military Affairs Association, Greene County Economic Development Roundtable, Xenia Downtown Revitalization as well as many other commendable associations. She was also a member of St. Brigid Catholic Church. One of Barbara's most favorite quotes was ``I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.'' Barbara exemplified this quote with her love and energy towards Xenia and the many different boards and organizations she served. After a hard fought battle with cancer, Barbara Zajbel, 67, passed away on March 28, 2011, surrounded by her husband, Tom Zajbel; sons, Jim and Tom Zajbel; and daughter, Tracy Zajbel Palmer. Barbara's life will continue to be an inspiration to all those who loved her and to the community she served so well.