Sanford Bishop

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn spirit that I rise to pay tribute to an extraordinary man who labored tirelessly for the greater good, a man that stood as an example to us all, Mr. Herman J. Russell. Sadly, Mr. Russell passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2014. Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 22, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Philip AME Church in Atlanta, Georgia. Born on December 23, 1930, Mr. Russell was a lifelong resident of Atlanta, Georgia. At the young age of 16, he purchased a small plot of land for the price of $125, an investment he eventually used to put himself through college at Tuskegee University in Alabama. He then went on to form a plastering company which, over the course of several decades, grew into a multi-million dollar real estate development and construction company, H.J. Russell & Co. Today, it is one of the nation's largest minority-owned real estate firms. Herman Russell is known as a founding father of the city of Atlanta. From Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to the Georgia Dome, from the Georgia-Pacific tower to the Coca-Cola headquarters, and from Turner Field to the Philips Arena, Mr. Russell played an essential role in the construction of much of the great skyline we see today. His firm is a partner in the joint venture selected to build the new nearly $1.3 billion Atlanta Falcons stadium, which is slated to open in 2017. In addition to his many accomplishments as a leading African-American businessman, Mr. Russell was an esteemed civic leader. He served as the first black member of the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce as well as the chamber's second black president. Mr. Russell was an activist and champion of the Civil Rights Movement, working closely with other influential figures such as the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He also contributed to the successful campaign of Maynard Jackson, Atlanta's first black mayor. Mr. Russell was also well-known for his giving heart, evidenced by his role as a generous benefactor for numerous educational programs for institutions such as Morehouse College, Georgia State University, and his alma mater, Tuskegee University. Additionally, Mr. Russell lent his charitable support to accomplish such tasks as the expansion of the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta facility at Hughes Spalding. George Washington Carver once said, ``No individual has any right to come into the world and go out of it without leaving behind distinct and legitimate reasons for having passed through it.'' The great Capital of the South would not be the same without Mr. Russell. Breaking down the numerous racial and economic barriers that stood in his path, Mr. Russell was a visionary and a man ahead of his time. His passing is a great loss to us all but his memory and storied legacy will serve as an enduring source of inspiration for so many. Mr. Russell is survived by his wife, Sylvia Anderson Russell; and his three children, Michael, Jerome, and Donata, who each run a portion of the family business, continuing their father's legacy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring the great Herman J. Russell, a charitable man who worked his whole life to overcome great challenges and grow into the leader he was destined to be. Mr. Russell was a remarkable man and a blessing to the state of Georgia and the nation as a whole. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time and we pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Lieutenant Colonel Michael L. Davidson for his exemplary dedication to duty and his service to the United States Army and to our great nation. He has served for the last two and a half years as a Congressional Budget Liaison for the Secretary of the Army. On November 25, 2014, he deployed to Afghanistan where he is serving as the Director of Legislative Affairs for the Commander of the International Security Assistance Force and United States Forces--Afghanistan. A native of Moore Haven, Florida, Lieutenant Colonel Davidson became a Cadet at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1989. While at West Point, he participated in Corps Squad Sports and earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He was commissioned as a Field Artillery Officer in May 1993. After completing the Artillery Officer Basic Course, he served as a Lieutenant for 18 months in the Republic of Korea as a platoon leader and operations officer in 6th Battalion, 37th Field Artillery Regiment, a rocket artillery unit. After returning from Korea, Lieutenant Davidson was assigned to 1st Battalion 321st Airborne Field Artillery Regiment at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. There he served as a platoon leader, battalion adjutant officer, and assistant battalion operations officer. After graduating from the Captain's Career Course he returned to the Republic of Korea and the 2nd Infantry Division, where he served in the 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment (Manchu) as a Battalion Fire Support Officer, Battery Commander, Headquarters and Headquarters Company Commander; and Aide de Camp to the Commanding General. Following this assignment, he deployed with the 3rd Army Coalition Forces Land Component Command (CFLCC) in 2002, serving as the lead planner for the Deep Operations Coordination Cell and later as an effects planner in the CFLCC Commander's Early Entry Command Post in Baghdad, Iraq. Major Michael Davidson returned to the 18th Airborne Corps and served as a Multi-National Corps-Iraq lead planner before serving as the 3- 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment Battalion Operations and Executive Officer in the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division during their combat deployment in Iraq. The Second Congressional District of Georgia gained a compassionate and knowledgeable resource in 2008 when Major Michael Davidson was assigned to the Office of the Chief of Legislative Liaison, where he served as a Congressional Fellow in my Washington, D.C. office. Following his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel, he took command of the 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division where his battalion served as part of the Army's Global Response Force for all world-wide contingency operations. Lieutenant Colonel Davidson's leadership throughout his career has positively impacted his soldiers, peers, and superiors. As a Congressional and Budget Liaison Officer, he worked directly with the Senate and House Appropriations and Armed Services Committees to educate and inform Members of Congress and staff on the many diverse and important procurement initiatives of the U.S. Army. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me, my wife, Vivian, the more than 700,000 people in Georgia's Second Congressional District, and all Americans, in extending our sincerest appreciation to Lieutenant Colonel Michael L. Davidson for two decades of service to our nation. In addition to gratitude for his selfless service and instrumental role in supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, Lieutenant Colonel Davidson has the respect, admiration, and affection of many on Capitol Hill and we wish him all the best in his deployment to Afghanistan and his upcoming promotion to Colonel.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable statesman and civic leader, Mr. Carl E. Sanders, former Governor of Georgia. Sadly, Governor Sanders passed away on Sunday, November 16, 2014. His passing marks the close of a long and prolific life, and his departure leaves a void in the hearts of Georgians. A memorial service for Mr. Sanders was held on Saturday, November 22, 2014 at Second Ponce de Leon Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. Carl E. Sanders was born on May 15, 1925 in Augusta, Georgia. A skilled athlete, he earned a full athletic scholarship to the University of Georgia, where he was to play quarterback. However, after his freshman year of college, he joined the Army Air Forces during World War II. He was trained to pilot a B-17 Bomber, which he named ``Georgia Peach,'' but the war concluded before his services were required abroad. Carl Sanders returned to finish his education at the University of Georgia, and met the woman who would become his wife, Betty Bird Foy. They married in the summer of 1947, after he graduated with a degree from the UGA School of Law. After being admitted to the Georgia Bar in 1948, Mr. Sanders began his career in an Augusta law firm, but kept a close eye on Georgia's political landscape. Six years later, he ran for and won a seat in the Georgia House of Representatives. In 1956, State Representative Sanders was elected to the Georgia Senate, where he served three terms. During this tumultuous time period, Senator Sanders advocated for keeping Georgia's public schools open when many of his colleagues favored closure to avoid implementing court orders to desegregate. In 1962, Senator Sanders was elected as the 74th Governor of Georgia at the young age of 37. During his four-year term, he brought a series of progressive reforms to Georgia. He made education his first priority and his administration added 10,000 new teachers. His legacy includes expanding access to higher education by establishing more community and junior colleges throughout Georgia. His administration reorganized the State Highway, Welfare, and Health Departments and established the State Water Quality Control Board, the state's first environmental regulatory office. He negotiated the deals that brought professional sports teams, the Braves and the Falcons, to Atlanta. Under his leadership, Georgia had the top-ranked airport development program in the nation, with 42 airports being built during his term. At the conclusion of his term, Georgia stood at a surplus of $140 million. As Governor, he also worked closely with State Senator Leroy Johnson, the first African-American to serve in the Georgia Senate, and worked quietly to remove remnants of the Jim Crow system from the State Capitol and other state facilities. He appointed the first African Americans to serve in the Georgia State Patrol. Within a year of leaving Georgia's Gold Dome, Mr. Sanders and two colleagues created the law firm Troutman Sanders LLP. Over the years, the firm grew tremendously, and now employs over 600 people in offices from Atlanta to Hong Kong. He managed the firm for over 25 years, and where most men would have retired, Mr. Sanders assumed the role of Chairman Emeritus and remained an active part of the business until his passing. Governor Sanders accomplished much throughout his life but none of this would have been possible without his enduring faith in God and the love and support of his wife of 67 years, Betty; his daughter, Betty Foy Botts, and son, Carl Sanders, Jr.; and his beloved in-laws and grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me, my wife, Vivian, and the more than 700,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in paying tribute to former Governor Carl E. Sanders for his remarkable leadership in our great State of Georgia. He shall be remembered as an outstanding Governor, a champion of education, and a supporter of civil rights during a time when few had the courage to do so. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time and we pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a strong community and business leader and outstanding citizen, Mike Gaymon. Mr. Gaymon has retired after more than 26 years as President and CEO of the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce. He was honored at a Retirement Celebration on Thursday, October 23, 2014 at 4:00 p.m. at the Chamber of Commerce in Columbus, Georgia. A native of South Carolina, Mr. Gaymon has been in the chamber business for over thirty-eight years. He led chambers in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Alabama before moving to Columbus, Georgia in 1988 to serve as President and CEO of the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Gaymon has revolutionized the Columbus Chamber as well as the Columbus community in many ways during his long tenure as President. He spearheaded the Need for Land project between Fort Benning and Columbus, which resulted in land for the Muscogee Technology Park. He oversaw the Chamber's Riverfront Committee, which worked to set the stage for development of the riverfront, including the Riverwalk, one of the longest river walks in the nation, spanning 15 miles along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. The Chamber was actively involved in the first SPLOST in 1993, which opened the door for the construction of the new Civic Center and the enhancement of Golden Park, where the 1996 Olympics Women's Softball Tournament was held. Mr. Gaymon also led the Chamber in forming the Valley Partnership, one of the largest and most successful regional economic development organizations. Additionally, the Chamber created the Young Professionals Program, which has over 650 members representing over 200 companies. Under Mr. Gaymon's leadership, the Chamber became the first five-star chamber in Georgia and one of only twenty-seven in the nation in November 2006. He will leave the Chamber in good shape with a $3 million annual operating budget and a steady membership of about 1,250 firms, a majority of those small businesses. His economic development accomplishments exceed $5.3 billion dollars with nearly 60,000 new jobs generated or retained. Mr. Gaymon has been selected by his peers as the Georgia Chamber Executive of the Year and has been named as Georgia Tech's Top Presenter for Economic Development Workshop and one of Top Five National Instructors by the U.S. Chamber. He also has been named as one of the 100 Top Influential Georgians by Georgia Trend, among numerous other honors and distinctions. The city of Columbus has also felt the waves of change emanating from the renovated old train depot where the Chamber is housed. In 2013, over 3,000 new primary jobs were created and more than $148 million was invested in the region. It is home to successful and renowned companies such as Aflac, TSYS, NCR, Pratt & Whitney, and Koch Foods, which as a whole have invested almost $3.5 billion into the region while creating more than 20,000 direct and indirect jobs. Furthermore, Columbus became the first Certified Literate Community in Georgia and has consistently been recognized as one of ``Top 100 Places to Live in America,'' ``100 Best Places to Raise a Family,'' and ``Number 1 for Single Senior Citizens'' throughout the years. Mr. Gaymon has accomplished much in his life but none of this would have been possible without the love and support of his wife, Sheila, their children and grandchildren, and his parents. Dr. Benjamin E. Mays often said: ``You make your living by what you get, you make your life by what you give.'' We are so grateful that Mr. Gaymon has given his time and talents to shaping a team of dedicated business leaders to improve the city of Columbus and surrounding areas. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Mike Gaymon for his twenty-six outstanding years as President and CEO of the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce. His energizing leadership has helped this organization transform the Columbus community for the better.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 33rd Annual Big Pig Jig held in Vienna, Georgia on November 7-8, 2014. Sponsored by the Dooly County Chamber of Commerce, the Big Pig Jig is Georgia's Official Memphis Barbecue Network (MBN) State Barbecue Cooking Championship. Thousands of people from all over joined the residents of Vienna to enjoy the finest barbecue in the world at this widely celebrated pig-cooking contest this year. In 1982, a group of talented chefs living in Vienna, Georgia made a bet on who could prepare the best barbecue. This private wager quickly grew into a full-fledged barbecue cooking competition after it combined forces with a local crafts fair and an annual hog show hosted by the county's livestock association. That fusion has since evolved into the annual Big Pig Jig, the world's largest MBN-endorsed contest as well as Georgia's biggest and oldest sanctioned contest of its kind. The Big Pig Jig's broad national recognition contributes heavily to the economy of the rural community of Vienna, Georgia, as well as the surrounding area. It draws a crowd that almost triples the city's average population and showcases the charm and beauty found within the city of Vienna on a grand scale. It is a beautiful thing when a community comes together to welcome people from all walks of life to their hometown to create a lasting and time-honored tradition like the Big Pig Jig. Next year's festivities will be particularly exciting as the National Whole Hog Championship will be held in conjunction with the Big Pig Jig. The addition of this brand new event in November of 2015 will only add to the palpable excitement the Big Pig Jig already inspires throughout the Southeast. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the Big Pig Jig as well as the folks of Dooly County, Georgia for cultivating this once small, local event into all that it is today. The Big Pig Jig promotes a delicious part of the South's cultural heritage and fosters a sense of unity among all those who travel from far and wide to our beloved community in Vienna, Georgia.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I pay tribute to an outstanding civic leader and public servant of Columbus, Georgia, Councilor C.E. ``Red'' McDaniel, Jr. Councilor McDaniel passed away on Monday, November 3, 2014. A funeral service was held on Friday, November 7, 2014 at First Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. Councilor McDaniel served on the City Council of Columbus for 38 years. When he was first elected in 1969, he served in the old county courthouse until the Government Center tower was built. The Council now meets at the new City Services Center off Macon Road. He was the only current Councilor to have served on the Council before Columbus and Muscogee County merged to form the Columbus Consolidated Government. Councilor McDaniel was a Columbus man through and through. After graduating from Columbus High School, where he was a football star, he went to the University of Florida on a football scholarship. After an injury, he switched to Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, where he earned an associate degree. He returned to Columbus and ran a private insurance company until his retirement from business. During his long tenure in the Columbus City government, he advocated for the improvement of city services while keeping a close eye on the budget. He was a champion of public safety and tirelessly supported the city's law enforcement officers and firefighters who often put their lives at risk. Always open and outspoken about his opinions, Councilor McDaniel stood as a giant redwood in local government, widely respected for his deep institutional knowledge and intrinsic experience. He served as a mentor to newly-elected councilors regardless of their ideological views. A man of integrity and principle, Councilor McDaniel possessed many qualities that make for a strong foundation of character. More importantly, he never wavered on his values and remained true to himself and to the residents of Columbus throughout his career. George Washington Carver once said, ``No individual has any right to come into the world and go out of it without leaving behind distinct and legitimate reasons for having passed through it.'' We are all so blessed that Councilor Red McDaniel passed this way and during his life's journey did so much for so many for so long. He leaves behind a great legacy in public service to the countless residents of Columbus whose lives he touched and brightened. On a personal note, Councilor McDaniel was a close personal friend of mine and one of the first city officials I met when I first came to Columbus in 1972. I have truly been blessed by his friendship, counsel and inspiration throughout the years. Councilor McDaniel has accomplished much in his life but none of this would have been possible without the love and support of his wife Joanne, two sons, several grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, my wife Vivian and I, along with the more than 700,000 residents of the Second Congressional District, salute Councilor McDaniel for his outstanding public service and his everlasting commitment to his community. I asked my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join us in extending our deepest condolences to Councilor McDaniel's family, friends and the Columbus, Georgia community during this difficult time. We pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my sincerest congratulations and Happy Birthday wishes to the Reverend Jimmie L. Mitchell, who celebrated her 90th birthday on Tuesday, October 7, 2014. On Sunday, October 12, 2014, family, friends, and members of Good Shepherd Deliverance Church gathered to celebrate her birthday at Receptions for You in Thomasville, Georgia. Ollie Jimmie Lee Mitchell was born in 1924 to Mr. Jim and Mrs. Wessie Wilkerson of Thomas County, Georgia. Family and friends felt, even at that time, that Rev. Mitchell was destined to do great things for God. However, because of her mother's premature death, Rev. Mitchell had to take on adult responsibilities when she was just thirteen. She and her sister, Willie Mae Simon, helped raise their young sister and five brothers. Having overcome these difficult times together, Rev. Mitchell and Willie Mae Simon were inseparable until October 2009 when Willie Mae Simon died. Growing up, Rev. Mitchell experienced some very difficult and abusive years that would have devastated any human being but she nevertheless maintained her strength and faith in God and He blessed her and led her to her true purpose. At 20 years old, she married Willie Mitchell, Sr. and they settled down in Thomasville, Georgia after he was discharged from the U.S. Army. They had ten children, but one died at birth. Rev. Mitchell was known for her very conservative and strict parenting style. She trained her family to treat all people equally regardless of color or gender. She taught her children to value education, love family, live by faith, and study and work hard to achieve their dreams. Those nine children have blessed her with 24 grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren, 26 great- grandchildren, and 4 great, great-grandchildren. When she was about 32 years old, Rev. Mitchell attended a prayer meeting at her next door neighbor's house, where she met Evangelist Mella Lawyer who led Rev. Mitchell to Christ and later became one of her dearest friends. Rev. Mitchell became a member of Saints Temple Holiness Church in Thomasville, where she actively participated in many ministries and became a missionary. Rev. Mitchell accepted her call into the ministry in 1963, becoming one of the first ordained women in Thomas County. She established Good Shepherd Deliverance Church the following year. In the fifty years since then, she planted more than seven churches throughout the state of Georgia and traveled throughout the nation to minister God's grace to all. George Washington Carver once said, ``How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'' Rev. Mitchell has gone far in life because her everlasting faith in the Lord is vivid testimony of His greatness to all whom she encounters. A woman of determination and perseverance, she has a special spiritual talent for getting closed doors to open. Her love and commitment to Christ is reflected in her compassionate leadership, which makes her a guiding light within the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our best wishes to an outstanding spiritual pioneer, the Reverend Jimmie L. Mitchell. She is truly a woman of faith whose heart never stops giving and whose hands never stop serving the people of her church and her community of Thomasville, Georgia.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a woman of grace, class, and dignity, Mrs. Charlotte M. Frazier. Sadly, Mrs. Frazier passed away on October 5, 2014. Her funeral service was held on October 14, 2014, at First African Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. She has been a dear friend to my wife Vivian and me for many years. Charlotte was born on May 23, 1932 to Arlene Hawkins in Columbus, Georgia. She graduated from William H. Spencer High School and was a director for the Spencer Golden Owlettes, Inc. Charlotte was always involved in doing good deeds for the betterment of her community. She always put others ahead of herself. And very often she took the lead in working on worthy projects and always saw those projects to a successful completion. She spearheaded the initiative to save the Liberty Theatre and supported its nomination and listing in the National Registry of Historic Places. She also led the efforts for the development of the Liberty Theatre Cultural Center, Inc., the restoration of Ma Rainey's grave site and the recognition of her legacy with a United States Postal Stamp. She was also a full time coordinator for the preservation of African-American resources. She was a recipient of many awards for her efforts on behalf of humankind. She advocated tirelessly on behalf of the local, state and national Democratic Party. Charlotte was a lifetime member of the Order of Eastern Star and the founder of the Princess Chapter #194 of the Modern Free and Accepted Masons of the World, Inc. She was largely responsible for acquiring the present site and building for the group. Charlotte held many titles and roles, but the most important role that she had in her life was serving her God with her work at First African Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, ``Do not go where the path may lead, but go instead where there is no path and leave the trail.'' Charlotte Frazier was truly one of a kind who blazed a trail for all of us to follow and left an indelible mark on the world that will not be forgotten. We are only here on this earth for a season. Charlotte Frazier used her season for good and to help others to reach their full potential. Former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm once said, ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this earth.'' Charlotte Frazier paid her rent and she paid it well. On behalf of my wife Vivian and the citizens of the Second Congressional District of Georgia, I extend my deepest sympathies to Charlotte's husband Anderson and all of those that she touched throughout her life.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my sincere congratulations to the congregation of St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church in Columbus, Georgia as the church's membership and leadership celebrates a remarkable 144 years. St. John A.M.E. Church will usher in this milestone with a celebration, aptly named ``Stung By The Spirit,'' and a day of service on Sunday, September 21, 2014. St. John A.M.E. Church was founded as St. John's Chapel in 1870 and was located on Fifth Avenue in Columbus. Reverend John G. Mitchell served as the first faith leader to the founding congregation, a dynamic group of faithful and steadfast Reconstruction-era Christians who helped bring the church to life. The church grew and evolved over the next century and on September 30, 1980, it was placed on the list of National Historic Buildings. This honor was attributed to the church's Victorian Gothic architectural design, the melodious bell in the steeple towering over the brilliant stained glass windows, and its long and storied history. Unfortunately, hardship struck on February 10, 1990, when a tornado swept through the community and severely damaged the church. As plans were drawn to restore the building, a second tornado created further damage to the structure on February 22, 1990. In a demonstration of compassion and unity, a great number of nearby churches opened their doors to the members of St. John. Reverend Elijah Smith, alongside other officers and the congregation, accepted the generous invitation extended to them by the Reverend Eugene Adams, Jr. from the nearby Saint James A.M.E. Church. Eventually, the members of the St. John family made the decision to relocate and build a new church on Steam Mill Road in Columbus. The grand opening ceremony for the new location took place on September 2, 1991. While the original location of the church is no longer in service, its members still consider that first edifice near and dear to their hearts. Thankfully, certain items, such as the stained glass windows, brass railings, and various pieces of furniture, were salvaged from the original location and artfully incorporated into the new church. The story of St. John A.M.E. and its long history of coming together through the good and difficult times is truly an inspiring one of the dedication and perseverance of a faithful congregation of people who put all their love and trust in the Lord. Today, the church continues to flourish under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Debora F. Grant. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church on its 144 remarkable years of worship and service in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to extend my sincere congratulations to the congregation and leadership of M. L. Harris United Methodist Church in Columbus, Georgia, as the church observes its 142nd anniversary. The members of this parish will come together in a day of worship and celebration of this occasion on Sunday, October 26, 2014. The origins of M. L. Harris can be traced back to 1872, when a group of like-minded individuals met regularly under grape arbors and anywhere else they could to praise and worship the Lord. These individuals met for an entire decade before being granted a plot of land which they could call their own by the Georgia General Assembly. The church was built at 640 6th Avenue in Columbus, Georgia and was named ``Simpson Chapel Methodist Episcopal Church'' after Bishop Matthew Simpson, a prominent bishop of the time. The Simpson Chapel continued to operate for nearly a century, until the congregation's leaders decided it was time to make a change if the Church was going to continue to grow and prosper. Through the faith, effort and charitable donations of many dedicated souls, a new church building was erected within three years at Bedford St. and Old Cusseta Road in Columbus. The church was renamed to ``M. L. Harris Methodist Church,'' in honor of the wonderfully generous contributions made by Bishop Marquis L. Harris over the course of the church's construction. At the time M. L. Harris was built, African-American congregations were not recognized as part of the general conference, and thus were grouped together in the Central Jurisdiction. M. L. Harris remained in the separate conference until 1967, at the culmination of the Civil Rights Movement, when the Evangelical United Brethren and the Methodist Church merged into the United Methodist Church. One of the terms of the merger ordered the end of segregation within the denomination, and M. L. Harris subsequently became M. L. Harris United Methodist Church. M. L. Harris would see many great pastors over the years, but perhaps the most notable was Reverend William B. Howell, whose strong leadership enabled tremendous growth within the congregation, reaching a record 373 members. During his tenure, many changes were made to the church, including structural renovations and the implementation of youth programs. Today, the church continues to grow under the spiritual guidance of Reverend Walter C. Lundy, Sr. The story of M. L. Harris United Methodist Church, which began as a small group of people worshipping in the shade of a grape arbor 142 years ago and has grown into a modest, yet successful congregation, stands out as an exemplary display of the dedication and perseverance of a faithful and united group of people who put all their love and trust in the Lord. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to M. L. Harris United Methodist Church in Columbus, Georgia for their long history of coming together through the good and difficult times to praise and worship our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The congregation may be small in number, but it is great in spirit and truly lives up to the church's motto that declares M. L. Harris as ``The Church Where Everybody is Somebody and God is ALL.''

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the associates and leadership of the Mars Chocolate manufacturing facility in Albany, Georgia as they celebrate 50 years of operation. The Mars Chocolate plant will commemorate this milestone with a celebration to be held on Friday, October 10, 2014. Family owned since 1911, Mars, Incorporated has 44 manufacturing facilities in the United States and employs more than 26,500 associates. It has diverse consumer businesses in chocolate, gum and confections, food, drinks and pet care. Mars strives to create a mutuality of benefits among all stakeholders through its Five Principles: Quality, Efficiency, Responsibility, Mutuality and Freedom. The Mars plant in Albany opened in 1964 as ``Peanut Masters'' and operated primarily as a peanut roasting facility. This plant has a long history and a strong connection to the Georgia peanut industry and today roasts all the peanuts for Snickers, Snickers Ice Cream, Snickers Peanut Butter Squared, M&M's Peanut Butter, and Twix PB Bars in the United States. The plant employs 172 of my constituents and now manufactures Combos and Marathon bars, in addition to the roasting operation. For the past 50 years, Mars has had a tremendous impact on the Albany, Georgia community. Not only does it offer economic benefits by providing jobs, the company also encourages its associates to give back to the community through various community engagement programs. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I ask that my colleagues join me and the more than 700,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in congratulating the Mars Chocolate manufacturing facility in Albany, Georgia for 50 years of operation. I am so glad to have this iconic American company in my District and I look forward to 50 more years of continued success in Southwest Georgia.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize this upcoming month of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). As part of a national campaign, NDEAM raises awareness about employment issues facing individuals with disabilities and celebrates the vast contributions made by American workers with disabilities. This year's theme is ``Expect. Employ. Empower.'' NDEAM's origins can be traced back to 1945, when Congress first passed a resolution declaring the first week of October as ``National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.'' In 1988, Congress expanded this week to an entire month and changed the name to ``National Disability Employment Awareness Month'' to reflect the wide variety of disabilities, physical or nonphysical, that an individual may have. This month serves to remind us all that a strong, thriving workforce is an inclusive workforce. As a nation, we must work together to increase meaningful employment opportunities for those with disabilities and utilize their many talents. I would like to especially recognize the great work of the Georgia Industries for the Blind (GIB), a facet of the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA). The GIB was established in 1937 and subsequently opened its first manufacturing plant in 1949. Since then, it has grown to include three manufacturing sites located in Albany, Bainbridge and Griffin, as well as two service sites located in Bainbridge and Warner Robins. The GIB employs nearly 100 blind persons and boasts over $12 million in annual sales. The GIB is a leader in the fight against the marginalization of the disabled worker and I applaud their resounding efforts to expand employment opportunities to those with disabilities throughout Georgia. By offering competitive wages and a full benefits package, Georgia Industries for the Blind stands as a shining example for other employers across the nation. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month by acknowledging the positive impact those with disabilities have on the American workforce, as well as understanding the need to increase meaningful employment opportunities for our disabled citizens. In addition, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the strides made by Georgia Industries for the Blind and other employers leading the effort to implement a more inclusive employee culture.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding actor, producer, humanitarian, activist and motivational speaker, Mr. Danny Glover. Mr. Glover was featured at a Health and Wellness Benefit on Friday, August 15, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. at the Occasion Event Center in Columbus, Georgia. Mr. Glover was born in San Francisco, California on July 22, 1946. He trained at the Black Actors' Workshop of the American Conservatory Theatre. His Broadway debut in Athol Fugard's Master Harold . . . and the Boys earned him national recognition and led director Robert Benton to cast him in his first leading role in 1984's Academy Award-nominated Best Picture, Places in the Heart. Mr. Glover then starred in two more Best Picture-nominated films, Peter Weir's Witness and Steven Spielberg's The Color Purple. In 1987, Mr. Glover partnered with Mel Gibson in the first Lethal Weapon film and went on to star in three hugely successful Lethal Weapon sequels. Throughout his career, he has starred in a multitude of films, including in The Royal Tenenbaums; Saw; Shooter; Death at a Funeral; 2012; and the critically-acclaimed Dreamgirls. Mr. Glover has also invested his talents in more personal projects including the award-winning To Sleep With Anger, which he executive produced and for which he won an Independent Spirit Award for Best Actor; as well as Bopha!; Manderlay; Missing in America; and the film version of Fugard's play Boseman and Lena. In 2005, Mr. Glover co- founded New-York based Louverture Films, a company dedicated to the development and production of films of historical relevance, social purpose, commercial value and artistic integrity. Not one to rest on his laurels, Mr. Glover dedicates much of his time to community activism and philanthropic efforts, concentrating on advocacy for economic justice and access to health care and education programs in the United States and Africa. He served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program from 1998-2004, focusing on issues of poverty, disease and economic development in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. He currently serves as a UNICEF Ambassador. Among his many recognitions and accolades, Mr. Glover was the recipient of a 2006 Director's Guild Award; 2011 ``Pioneer Award'' from the National Civil Rights Museum; and several NAACP Image Awards and CableACE Awards. He earned an Emmy nomination for his performance in the title role of the HBO Movie Mandela. Mr. Glover has not only been a commanding presence on screen, stage, and television but also a driving force on the international stage for humanitarianism. Nelson Mandela once said, ``For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.'' Mr. Glover embodies this statement thoroughly, for in light of his enormous personal success, he continues to fight hard for the rights and freedoms of others. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me, my wife Vivian, and the more than 700,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in recognizing Mr. Danny Glover for his remarkable accomplishments as an actor and for his unwavering courage, strong values, and an avid pursuit of equality and justice as a humanitarian.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a distinguished public servant, devoted educator and dear friend to my wife, Vivian and me, Dr. Eunice S. Thomas. Sadly, Dr. Thomas passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2014. Her life will be celebrated at a funeral service on Friday, August 29, 2014 at 12:00 p.m. at First African Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. Dr. Thomas worked for four cabinet level secretaries in the U.S. Department of Transportation, the U.S. Department of Labor, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) during two consecutive United States Presidents' Administrations. At HHS, she worked as Acting Assistant Secretary for the Family Support Administration, managing a staff of more than 1,049 and a budget in excess of $14 billion. She administered federal programs focused on strengthening families and increasing their self-sufficiency, including Aid to Families with Dependent Children, Child Support Enforcement, Refugee Resettlement, and the Community Services programs. She directed the Implementation of Welfare reform as was embodied in the Family Support Act in 1988. Dr. Thomas retired from HHS as Director of the Office of Community Services Administration for Children and Families where she oversaw the Community Services Block Grant, Social Services Block Grant, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance, the Family Violence Program, Demonstration Partnership Programs, and the Community Discretionary programs while managing a budget in excess of $5.9 billion. Dr. Thomas loved her community and loved her sorority and found a way to give her all to both when she became the 19th International Grand Basileus of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. in July 1986 at the 66th Anniversary Boule. Her service led to one of Zeta's finest administrations, restructuring the organization and creating programs that reflected strong and effective leadership with integrity, compassion, and a sense of social responsibility. Programs were instated to address issues such as substance abuse, AIDS Awareness, lack of after school and child care, the decline of black men in college, and the rise in teen pregnancy rates. For her efforts, Ebony magazine named Grand Basileus Thomas one of the 100 Influential Black Americans each year from 1987 to 1992 and in 1987, President George H.W. Bush selected Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. as one of the ``Thousand Points of Light.'' She was affectionately nicknamed the ``Real Grand'' because of the reverence so many Zetas had for her to the extent that the membership wanted to extend her term in office beyond the maximum six years, but she graciously declined. She was an active member of Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter in Columbus, Georgia for over 45 years at the time of her death. She was instrumental in getting Kappa Epsilon Chapter chartered at Columbus State University (Columbus College) in 1974 while she was the Southeastern Regional Director. In addition to her mentorship and guidance of Zetas of all ages, she touched and enriched the lives of countless young people during her time as an educator in the Muscogee County School System. Dr. Thomas was more than a civil servant, she was a servant to all humankind. She gave herself to so many causes and organizations that are too numerous to mention. Dr. Maya Angelou once said that, ``I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.'' Dr. Thomas threw a prodigious amount of love and service back to the Columbus, Georgia community and our nation that she loved so dearly. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me, my wife, Vivian, and the more than 700,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in paying tribute to Dr. Eunice S. Thomas for her outstanding contributions to her sorority, her community, and our nation. We extend our deepest sympathies to her family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time and we pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to extend a heartfelt congratulations to the students, staff and supporters of the Job Corps as they celebrate 50 remarkable years of educating and training at-risk youth. The Turner Jobs Corps Center in Albany, Georgia celebrated this milestone with a citywide Birthday Bash held on Wednesday, August 20, 2014 at 9:15 a.m. on the campus at 2000 Schilling Avenue in Albany, Georgia. Job Corps is a no-cost education and training program that helps young people train for a career, earn a high school diploma or GED, and find and keep a good job. For eligible young people at least 16 years of age that qualify as low-income, Job Corps gives them the opportunity to learn skilled trades and provides them with the all-around tools needed to succeed in life. Job Corps is authorized by Title I-C of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor. There are 125 Job Corps center campuses located throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. For the past 50 years, the Job Corps program has had an enormous impact on millions of young people throughout the nation. As the national economy continues to recover, it is important that young people have the training and education they need to find and maintain stable jobs. I am grateful for the Job Corps program and its mission to give at-risk youth a second chance, equipping them with the resources they need to succeed now and into the future. I would like to especially recognize the Turner Job Corps Center in Georgia's Second Congressional District. I have worked closely with the Turner Job Corps Center and I have seen some of the best and most hard- working young adults in Georgia and across the country emerge from its doors. I commend the Job Corps program and its dedicated staff for all the wonderful work they have done and will continue to do. I am so glad to have the Turner Job Corps Center in my District and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with the Center in working for our young people and our communities. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I ask that my colleagues join me and the more than 700,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in expressing our collective and profound gratitude to the students, staff and supporters for their work to educate and train at-risk youth so that they have the opportunity to pursue good careers and lead successful lives.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the World War II Merrill's Marauders unit for their accomplishments in the China-Burma-India Theater of Operations. The 70th anniversary of the disbandment of this courageous and noble unit is on August 10, 2014. In 1943, almost 3,000 U.S. Army volunteers from the jungles of Panama and Trinidad, Guadalcanal, New Guinea, New Georgia and the United States, landed in Bombay, India on October 31, 1943. On January 1, 1944, the unit was officially designated as the 5307th Composite Unit Provisional, code-named ``Galahad,'' and later nicknamed Merrill's Marauders by the press after their commander, Gen. Frank D. Merrill. They were the first American ground troops to fight the Japanese in Asia. Merrill's Marauders trained with Britain's Major General Orde Wingate's Chindits before beginning their history-making march in the China-Burma-India Theater, the ``forgotten'' WWII Theater. With only what they could carry on their backs or pack on mules, Merrill's Marauders walked farther, almost 1,000 miles, than any other WWII fighting force. Trudging behind enemy lines up the foothills of the Himalayas and into the jungles of northern Burma, Merrill's Marauders succeeded in capturing the only all-weather airstrip at Myitkyina on May 17, 1944. This feat obliterated Japan's control of the sky and enabled the Allies to begin flying supplies into Burma so the Ledo and Burma roads could be connected to open up a crucial pathway into China. Although vastly outnumbered, Merrill's Marauders then went on to defeat the Japanese 18th Imperial Division in five major battles and thirty minor engagements. The volunteers of this short-lived mission were considered ``expendable'' since a plan existed to get them into, but not out of, Burma. The unit was expected to have a casualty rate of more than 85 percent. Jungle diseases ravaged their numbers so only about 300 of the approximately 1,300 remaining Merrill's Marauders were still fit for combat when they reached their objective. They later went on to join replacements who continued to fight in Burma as the 475th Infantry, which became part of the Mars Task Force. For their accomplishments in the China-Burma-India Theater of Operations, the Merrill's Marauders unit was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation. They also have the extremely rare distinction of every member of the unit receiving the Bronze Star Medal. There were also six Distinguished Service Crosses, four Legions of Merit and fourty-four Silver Star Medals awarded. Twenty-five Merrill's Marauders have been inducted into the Army Ranger Hall of Fame. The legacy of the Merrill's Marauders continues to be honored today by members of the 75th Ranger Regiment, headquartered at Fort Benning, Georgia, who wear the Marauder patch as their crest. Camp Frank D. Merrill, where the mountain phase of today's vigorous Army Ranger training takes place in north Georgia, is named in honor of the unit's commanding general. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in paying tribute to the Merrill's Marauders for their steadfast courage and commitment to serving our country during World War II. The Merrill's Marauders made significant contributions in safeguarding our liberties as Americans seventy years ago and we honor their outstanding valor and patriotic service that helped make America the great nation it is today.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my sincere congratulations to the congregation of Wynnton Hill Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia as the church's membership and leadership celebrates a remarkable 153 years. The congregation of Wynnton Hill Baptist Church will celebrate this noteworthy anniversary on Sunday, August 24, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. at the Wynnton Hill Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. Tracing its roots back to the Civil War era, the church was the first of any denomination to be built in the Wynnton area of Columbus. In 1961, during a meeting at the home of Mr. Willis and Mrs. Sarah James, the first members of the church, the plans were established to build a sanctuary. The first pastor, Reverend Phillip Owens, assisted in building the foundation of the church. Land was purchased from the James family to build a bush arbor which was covered by fresh bushes from a wooded area every Saturday before the Sunday service. After some time, a wooden structure was built. Rev. Owens served the church devotedly for 47 years. In 1911, Reverend James H. Carter was called to lead Wynnton Hill Baptist Church and he continued to build from Rev. Owens' foundation. Under Rev. Carter's leadership, the church expanded and the structure changed from wooden to brick. The first public school in the area was taught in the basement of the church. Mrs. Selena Cody and Miss Johnnie Hutchins were the teachers. One of the most significant moments in the church's history occurred after a city ordinance was enforced in 1928. The church was condemned and torn down. However, a sanctuary was erected in 1930 and the church began to flourish. Throughout the coming decades, an education wing was installed. In addition, the church was incorporated in 1979. Unfortunately, turmoil was on the rise again. In 1989, a firebomb destroyed the education wing, but that did not prevail against the spirit of the members. The following year, the education wing was remodeled and rededicated. The construction of the present sanctuary was completed in 1999 and the loan was paid off in 2003. During these progressions, Wynnton Hill Baptist Church had eleven dedicated spiritual leaders that shepherded the flock and led them to a state of prosperity. Today the church continues to grow and give back to the community it has served for over 150 years. The story of Wynnton Hill Baptist Church, which began as a small group of people worshipping in a bush arbor church 153 years ago and has grown into an expansive and successful church, is truly an inspiring one of the dedication and perseverance of a faithful congregation of people who put all their love and trust in the Lord. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Wynnton Hill Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia for their long history of coming together through the good and difficult times to praise and worship our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, at this time, there is no Federal agency more deserving of our attention than the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA has served generations of heroes who have sacrificed on behalf of our country and we have an obligation to take care of them when they come home. Without a doubt, the American people expect and veterans deserve the best service possible and I firmly believe that it is a duty of all of us in Congress to ensure that no one betrays the sacred trust owed to our Veterans. The failure and mismanagement of care for our veterans that has come to light through the IG's investigation over the past two months must never be repeated, and I trust that this bill will go far to help reverse the failures, and ensure better future treatment of veterans at the VA. I think this conference report contains provisions that will help provide timely care to veterans, hold the management of the Department of Veterans Affairs accountable, uphold the integrity of the department, and improve education benefits for veterans and their dependants--representing a major step in the right direction in meeting those obligations. Specific measures to do so include; providing $5 billion to the VA to hire additional physicians and other medical staff, authorizing a system for the VA to fire or demote management level employees for poor performance or misconduct, and increasing access to non-VA care for those veterans in dire need. Yesterday, we were greeted with the good news of the Senate confirmation of the new VA Secretary, Robert McDonald. While the Senate acted swiftly on the confirmation of McDonald, I was disappointed to see that the Senate Appropriations Committee Chairwoman was unable to bring the FY 2015 MilCon/VA Appropriations bill to floor due to objections from the Senate Minority. If we truly wanted to get the ball rolling to make the VA better the Senate Minority should allow the bill to come to the floor. Nevertheless, I also have full expectation that with the passage of this conference report it is going to be important that this Congress hold Secretary McDonald and his subordinates fully accountable moving forward. Many in Congress are concerned about the cost of this bill. One way to help pay the cost of improved health care for veterans would be to improve third party collections. Section 201 of the bill authorizes an independent assessment of a number of VA activities. Among other provisions, the assessment would report on ways to increase funds owed to the VA by third parties. Over the past dozen years, the GAO and the VA/OIG have issued more than a dozen reports outlining the problems with third party reimbursement. I hope that the assessment team will not reinvent the wheel. We already know that the VA has increased its billings for these services, but its collection rate has decreased or has remained stagnant. As a result, in FY13 alone, the VA failed to collect more than $3 billion in billings. Between FY07 and FY13, the VA left nearly $23 billion on the table. The assessment should include specific directives for the improvement of the entire billings and collections process--from initial billing to denied claims to appeals of denied claims. The private sector seeks to maximize reimbursement. The VA should do no less.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Lieutenant General (LtGen) Frank E. Petersen, Jr., the first African- American to serve as a three-star general officer in the U.S. Marine Corps. At the time of his retirement after 38 years, LtGen Petersen was the senior ranking aviator in the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Navy with the respective titles of ``Silver Hawk'' and ``Grey Eagle''. He will be honored on July 28, 2014 for his selfless acts and lifetime of dedication to the Marine Corps and his country. A Topeka, Kansas native, LtGen Petersen enlisted in the United States Navy in 1950 as a Seaman Apprentice where he served as an Electronics Technician. One year later, he entered the Naval Aviation Cadet Program, earning his commission and the rank of Second Lieutenant with the U.S. Marine Corps upon the completion of flight school in 1952. LtGen Petersen served during the Korean War, where his first tactical assignment was with Marine Fighter Squadron 212. After flying over 64 combat missions, he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for his combat leadership and bravery on June 15, 1953. He also flew 250 combat missions during the Vietnam conflict, receiving the Purple Heart after enemy anti-aircraft fire brought down his F-4B over the demilitarized zone. In addition, the Marine Corps Aviation Association honored his Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 (VMFA-314) with the inaugural Robert M. Hanson Award for best fighter attack squadron during the Vietnam conflict. LtGen Petersen was the first African-American to command a Marine Fighter Squadron, a Marine Air Group, a Marine Aircraft Wing, and a major Marine base. On February 23, 1979, he was promoted to Brigadier General, becoming the first African-American general of the Marine Corps. Prior to his retirement, he served as the Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff and Commanding General, Marine Corps Combat Development Command in Quantico, Virginia. Upon his retirement from the Marine Corps on August 1, 1988, LtGen Petersen concluded a military career of remarkable ``firsts''. He commanded at every level of command and stood as a trailblazer for all Marines. His autobiography, ``Into the Tiger's Jaw'', is known as the story of the modern U.S. Marine Corps, providing vital insight into the history of Marine aviation as well as the racial integration of the Marine Corps. Throughout the book's narrative, LtGen Petersen reflects on key moments that defined his life's sacrifices, triumphs, and key personal moments in addition to unequivocally chronicling the racial integration of the Marine Corps. Throughout his career, LtGen Petersen confronted racism inside and outside the Marine Corps. Nevertheless, as he reflects in his book, the Marine Corps ethos enabled Marines to ultimately triumph over racism. Indeed, his life's commands illustrate the Marine Corps' triumph. In 1970, as deteriorating race relations threatened to rend the nation asunder, LtGen Petersen became the Special Assistant for Minority Affairs to the Commandant of the Marine Corps. His guidance to the Commandant of the Marine Corps, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Secretary of Defense served the Marine Corps and the country well during this challenging period. LtGen Petersen spent his civilian years as vice president of corporate aviation for DuPont DeNemours, Inc. He was also appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Education to serve as a Board Member of the Educational Credit Management Corporation. LtGen Petersen's personal awards and decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal; Legion of Merit with Combat ``V''; Distinguished Flying Cross; Purple Heart; Meritorious Service Medal; Air Medal; Navy Commendation Medal with Combat ``V''; Air Force Commendation Medal; Robert M. Hanson Award for the Most Outstanding Fighter Squadron while assigned in Vietnam, 1968; Man of the Year, NAACP, 1979; Honorary Doctorate, Virginia Union University, 1987; and the Gray Eagle Trophy, August 21, 1987-June 15, 1988. LtGen Petersen has certainly accomplished many things in his life but none of this would have been possible without the love and support of his wife of 39 years, Alicia, and his children; Frank III, Gayle, Dana, Lindsey, and Monique. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me, the United States Marine Corps, and all Americans, in extending our sincerest appreciation to Lieutenant General Frank E. Petersen, Jr., an pioneering leader who, in addition to achieving the distinction of a number of ``firsts'' for African-Americans, has the respect, admiration, and affection of his fellow Marines and leaves behind an outstanding legacy of service and leadership in the Marine Corps of the United States of America.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Lieutenant General (LtGen) Frank E. Petersen Jr., the first African- American to serve as a three-star general officer in the U.S. Marine Corps. At the time of his retirement after 38 years, LtGen Petersen was the senior ranking aviator in the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Navy with the respective titles of ``Silver Hawk'' and ``Gray Eagle''. He will be honored on July 28, 2014 for his selfless acts and lifetime of dedication to the Marine Corps and his country. A Topeka, Kansas native, LtGen Petersen enlisted in the United States Navy in 1950 as a Seaman Apprentice where he served as an Electronics Technician. One year later, he entered the Naval Aviation Cadet Program, earning his commission and the rank of Second Lieutenant with the U.S. Marine Corps upon the completion of flight school in 1952. LtGen Petersen served during the Korean War, where his first tactical assignment was with Marine Fighter Squadron 212. After flying over 64 combat missions, he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for his combat leadership and bravery on June 15, 1953. He also flew 250 combat missions during the Vietnam conflict, receiving the Purple Heart after enemy anti-aircraft fire brought down his F-4B over the demilitarized zone. In addition, the Marine Corps Aviation Association honored his Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 (VMFA-314) with the inaugural Robert M. Hanson Award for best fighter attack squadron during the Vietnam conflict. LtGen Petersen was the first African-American to command a Marine Fighter Squadron, a Marine Air Group, a Marine Aircraft Wing, and a major Marine base. On February 23, 1979, he was promoted to Brigadier General, becoming the first African-American general of the Marine Corps. Prior to his retirement, he served as the Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff and Commanding General, Marine Corps Combat Development Command in Quantico, Virginia. Upon his retirement from the Marine Corps on August 1, 1988, LtGen Petersen concluded a military career of remarkable ``firsts''. He commanded at every level of command and stood as a trailblazer for all Marines. His autobiography, ``Into the Tiger's Jaw'', is known as the story of the modern U.S. Marine Corps, providing vital insight into the history of Marine aviation as well as the racial integration of the Marine Corps. Throughout the book's narrative, LtGen Petersen reflects on key moments that defined his life's sacrifices, triumphs, and key personal moments in addition to unequivocally chronicling the racial integration of the Marine Corps. Throughout his career, LtGen Petersen confronted racism inside and outside the Marine Corps. Nevertheless, as he reflects in his book, the Marine Corps ethos enabled Marines to ultimately triumph over racism. Indeed, his life's commands illustrate the Marine Corps' triumph. In 1970, as deteriorating race relations threatened to rend the nation asunder, LtGen Petersen became the Special Assistant for Minority Affairs to the Commandant of the Marine Corps. His guidance to the Commandant of the Marine Corps, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Secretary of Defense served the Marine Corps and the country well during this challenging period. LtGen Petersen spent his civilian years as vice president of corporate aviation for du Pont de Nemours, Inc. He was also appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Education to serve as a Board Member of the Educational Credit Management Corporation. LtGen Petersen's personal awards and decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal; Legion of Merit with Combat ``V''; Distinguished Flying Cross; Purple Heart; Meritorious Service Medal; Air Medal; Navy Commendation Medal with Combat ``V''; Air Force Commendation Medal; Robert M. Hanson Award for the Most Outstanding Fighter Squadron while assigned in Vietnam, 1968; Man of the Year, NAACP, 1979; Honorary Doctorate, Virginia Union University, 1987; and the Gray Eagle Trophy, August 21, 1987-June 15, 1988. LtGen Petersen has certainly accomplished many things in his life but none of this would have been possible without the love and support of his wife of 39 years, Alicia, and his children; Frank III, Gayle, Dana, and Lindsey. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me, the United States Marine Corps, and all Americans, in extending our sincerest appreciation to Lieutenant General Frank E. Petersen Jr., a pioneering leader who, in addition to achieving the distinction of a number of ``firsts'' for African-Americans, has the respect, admiration, and affection of his fellow Marines and leaves behind an outstanding legacy of service and leadership in the Marine Corps of the United States of America.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to a great woman, legendary athlete, and outstanding public servant, Ms. Alice Coachman. Sadly, Alice passed away on Monday, July 14, 2014, at the age of 90 in Albany, Georgia. The memorial service is scheduled for this Friday, July 18. Alice was born the fifth of ten children on November 9, 1923, to the late Fred and Evelyn Coachman in Albany, Georgia. From an early age, Alice spent much of her time running and was quite inventive, using ropes and sticks for improvised high jumps. Her hard work, dedication, and resourcefulness paid off as Alice qualified for the 1940, 1944, and 1948 Olympic Games, although the first two were cancelled due to World War II. At the 1948 Olympic Games in London however, Alice made history when she soared to a record-breaking height of 5 feet, 6 and 1/8 inches in the high jump finals, becoming the first African American woman to win an Olympic Gold Medal. Although the track and field star's career concluded with the London games, Alice's commitment to serving others never ceased. Before and after her record-breaking victory, Alice dealt with challenges representative of the Deep South during the Jim Crow era. Because of such segregation, Alice was forbidden from using public training facilities. However, she continued to train to ensure her competiveness on the national and international scenes. Throughout her career, Alice won over 20 national track and field championships, and she was named to five All-American teams. It was her unwavering faith in herself and God that guided her along the way as she blazed the trail for countless other female African-American athletes. In 1954, Alice once again set another record--this time as the first African American woman to endorse an international product when she agreed to serve as Coca-Cola's spokeswoman. The Olympic Champion was also inducted to the USA Track and Field Hall of Fame in 1975 and the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame in 2004. She was recognized as one of the top one hundred Olympic athletes of all time at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. Alice's title as an Olympic Champion, however, serves as only a fragment of the powerful legacy she leaves behind for current and future generations. She followed her calling to be a teacher in the classroom after the 1948 games and also actively supported youth participation in track and field. In Alice's later years, she established the Alice Coachman Track and Field Foundation to offer assistance to young athletes and former Olympic competitors. George Washington Carver once said, ``No individual has any right to come into the world and go out of it without leaving behind distinct and legitimate reasons for having passed through it.'' We are all so blessed that Ms. Alice Coachman passed our way and during her life's journey did so much for so many for so long. She leaves behind a great legacy of service to her beloved family and to all those whose lives she touched. She will truly be missed. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me, my wife, Vivian, and the nearly 700,000 residents in Georgia's Second Congressional District in paying tribute to Alice Coachman for her numerous outstanding achievements on and off the track. We extend our deepest sympathies to her family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time and we pray that they will be consoled and comforted by, an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen and servant of humankind, Mr. Paul S. Amos. Sadly, Mr. Amos passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2014. Funeral services were held on Saturday, July 5, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. at St. Luke Methodist Church in Columbus, Georgia. Paul Shelby Amos was born on April 23, 1926 in Enterprise, Alabama to the late John Shelby and Helen Mullins Amos. His father, the town postmaster, sold insurance on weekends and served one term in the state legislature. Mr. Amos served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1944 to 1946. He met his future wife, Jean, in church and they celebrated a remarkable 65 years of marriage in October of last year. In 1955, the Amos brothers, Paul, John, and Bill founded American Family Life Insurance Company. In 1964, the name was changed to American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus, later shortened to Aflac. In its first year of business, the company had 6,426 policyholders and $388,000 in assets. Today, it is a Fortune 500 company insuring more than 50 million people worldwide and boasting more than $121 billion in assets. Aflac is the world's largest supplemental insurance company and is an industry leader in Japan, where the company generates about three- quarters of its revenues. Soon after its founding, Aflac introduced a groundbreaking policy aimed at covering expenses for people with cancer. Mr. Amos is credited with introducing ``worksite marketing,'' where products are sold directly to employees at companies through payroll deductions. Mr. Paul, as he was known within the company, held numerous positions at the firm. He served as state sales manager for Alabama/West Florida, the first Vice President/Director of Marketing, President, and Vice Chairman. In 1990, he became Chairman of Aflac Incorporated, and his son, Daniel P. Amos, became the CEO. Mr. Paul retired in 2001 but continued serving as Chairman Emeritus and visited the Aflac offices in Columbus on a daily basis, where he was loved and respected by all. His legacy is still carried on by his son, Dan, and his grandson, Alfac President Paul Amos II. Mr. Amos put as much love and effort into serving his community as he did into his work at Aflac. He and his wife set up several educational funds and scholarship programs, including the Paul S. Amos Family Foundation at Columbus State University in Columbus, the Paul and Jean Amos Educational Fund at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky and the Scholarship Fund at Cumberland College in Williamsburg, Kentucky. Through these programs and many anonymous donations, Mr. Amos and his wife have changed the lives of thousands of people. Mr. Amos has received much recognition for his work at Aflac and in the community. He received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Cumberland College in 2001; an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Columbus State University in 2002; and an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Asbury Theological Seminary in 2004. George Washington Carver once said, ``No individual has any right to come into the world and go out of it without leaving behind distinct and legitimate reasons for having passed through it.'' We are all so blessed that Mr. Paul Amos, a great man of incredible compassion and integrity, passed this way and during his life's journey did so much for so many for so long. He leaves behind a great legacy in service to his beloved family and to all those whose lives he touched through his kindness and generosity. He will truly be missed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me, my wife, Vivian, and the more than 700,000 residents of Georgia's Second Congressional District in paying tribute to Mr. Paul Amos for his outstanding contributions to his community. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time and we pray that they will be consoled and comforted by an abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a great friend and outstanding public servant, Officer Shafton T. Adams, of the United States Capitol Police, for his distinguished service to Congress and the United States of America. On June 30, 2014, Officer Adams will be retiring from the U.S. Capitol Police after thirty outstanding years of service. Officer Adams, a Washington, D.C. native, attended Southeastern University and the University of the District of Columbia. He began his duty assignments as a Capitol Police Officer in 1984. Throughout his career, he received numerous honors, including a Certificate of Merit and a Life Saving Award. He has earned certifications in advanced specialized fields including Hostage Negotiations, Firearms Instructor and Armorer, Hazardous Materials Technician, CPR Instructor and Field Training Officer. In 2004, Officer Adams began working as a Physical Security Specialist. In this capacity, he researched, maintained and educated staff on all facets of physical security and equipment. He created vulnerability assessment reports for Members of Congress and recommended risk mitigation. In doing so, he ensured the physical security needs of Members of Congress. His position required him to maintain a Top Secret SSBI Clearance. The mission of the U.S. Capitol Police is to ``protect the Congress, its legislative processes, Members, employees, visitors, and facilities from crime, disruption, or terrorism.'' Because of the selflessness and dedication of Officer Adams and the Capitol Police, Members of Congress are able to have peace of mind while fulfilling our constitutional responsibilities. We owe so much to the officers of this special force who devote their lives to protecting those who make the laws of our great nation as well as those who work in and visit the magnificent halls and grounds of our Capitol. Officer Adams's service to his country is but a small testament of the high caliber of character that he embodies. He is passionate, dedicated and highly efficient and adheres to the highest standards of moral values. Officer Adams regards his mission on Earth as being a provider and protector--two roles I have witnessed him perform admirably throughout his professional and personal life. On a personal note, I would like to thank Officer Adams not only for his distinguished service, but also for his friendship and guidance. It gave me great peace of mind to know that I could call on Officer Adams, day or night, in Washington or at home in Georgia, and he would go to great lengths to assist me in whatever I needed. Officer Adams has certainly excelled in all areas of his life, but none of this would be possible without the love and support of his wife and his family. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues in the United States Congress to join me in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to Officer Shafton T. Adams upon the occasion of his retirement from a stellar career of thirty years with the United States Capitol Police.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my personal congratulations and best wishes to a great friend and outstanding servant of humankind, the Honorable Tracey L. Pinson, Director for the Office of Small Business Programs in the Office of the Secretary of the Army, and the highest-ranking female civilian in the Army acquisition career field. Ms. Pinson has excelled at this position since her first day as director in May 1995. She will be retiring on Monday, June 30, 2014. A Washington, D.C. native, Ms. Pinson earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Howard University in 1978 and a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center in 1982. Her career began on Capitol Hill on the House Committee on Small Business under Chairman Parren Mitchell. Rep. Mitchell, of Maryland's Seventh Congressional District, was known as the ``godfather'' of minority business expansion and development efforts. In 1986, Ms. Pinson was named as Assistant to the Director of the Office of Small Business Programs for the Office of the Secretary of Defense. In 1995, Ms. Pinson was appointed the Director of Small Business Programs in the Office of the Secretary of the Army. She manages the largest small business program in the federal government in terms of dollars. Under her leadership, the Army has awarded over $300 billion in contracts to small businesses. Ms. Pinson manages the Army Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Serving Institutions Program and ensures these institutions are afforded an opportunity to participate in Army- funded programs. Under her leadership, over $100 billion in Army awards have gone to HBCUs/MIs. She also headed an initiative to hire wounded warriors in her office. With their help, she has been able to steer over $50 billion to veteran-owned businesses. She has also worked to secure contract awards for women-owned businesses, companies located in areas of economic distress, and small businesses in disaster relief efforts. Throughout her career, Ms. Pinson has received numerous awards and accolades, including the Department of the Army Award--Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service in 1998; the Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Executive in 2002 and for Distinguished Executive in 2009; and the Department of the Army Award for Meritorious Civilian Service in 2014. Ms. Pinson's distinguished civil service has been mirrored by her extensive involvement in her community. In conjunction with her professional accomplishments in government, Ms. Pinson has served on a number of boards and commissions, most notably on the Board of Directors of the African American Federal Executive Association. Ms. Pinson has dedicated her career to advocating for disadvantaged small business owners. Because of her efforts, thousands of these small business owners have received contract awards to stimulate their businesses, create jobs and contribute to the economy. Indeed, Ms. Pinson has been a champion for small businesses across the nation and I am so grateful for the role she has played in upholding the American dream for thousands of Americans. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our sincerest appreciation and best wishes to the Honorable Tracey L. Pinson upon the occasion of her retirement from a stellar career of 32 years of service in the federal government and nearly 20 years as Director for the Office of Small Business Programs for the Secretary of the Army.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding community leader, caring physician, and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Dr. Charles ``Chuck'' Lionel Franklin, Jr. Dr. Franklin departed to his eternal reward on Monday, June 2, 2014. A funeral service was held on Monday, June 9, 2014, at the Dunbarton Chapel at Howard University Law School in Washington, D.C. Hundreds of mourners were present to pay tribute to Dr. Franklin's honorable life and legacy. Dr. Franklin was born on April 5, 1946, and was raised in Washington, D.C. Over the course of his lifetime, Dr. Franklin exemplified the meaning of being a servant leader. He began at Howard University, where he never missed an opportunity to engage in causes that promoted justice and equality. Even as an alumnus, his commitment to the university remained one of his greatest causes. He advocated the D.C. Metro bus system to change the name of the bus stop for Howard's campus from ``LeDroit Park'' to ``Howard University'' to recognize the university's status in the same way that other prominent colleges were recognized. Also, as a result of his advocacy on behalf of his beloved alma mater and black college football, the Washington media began publishing the scores and highlights of black college sports in mainstream sports news stories. Dr. Franklin shared Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s belief that, ``Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.'' In 1976, Dr. Franklin expanded his repertoire of servant leadership by opening his Family Medicine practice in Silver Spring, Maryland, with medical privileges at area hospitals. Dr. Franklin practiced medicine for 35 years, focusing on patient advocacy. He worked tirelessly to bring awareness to the prevention of HIV/AIDS and diabetes. Mr. Speaker, one of the things that I will always remember about Dr. Franklin is his steadfast commitment to his family and his faith. I became fond of Dr. Franklin through his wife, the former Alexis Margaret Herman, former U.S. Secretary of Labor under President Bill Clinton, and a lifelong friend of mine. As big brother to Dolores and Estelle, dad to Sharath, Michelle and young Chuck, grandfather to Brian and David, and inspiration to extended family and countless friends, Chuck spared no effort in sharing himself to the fullest. Moreover, as husband, there was no limit to his love for Alexis! But above all, Dr. Franklin loved his Savior. Always seeking to improve the craft of Christian ministry and discipleship, he was often called ``the praying doctor'' because he not only gave his patients medical hope but he also prayed with them for spiritual help and healing. George Washington Carver once said, ``How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong because someday in your life you will have been all of these.'' Dr. Franklin went far in life because his loving personality brought warmth to all whom he encountered. A man of integrity and high moral values, his understanding, compassion and kindness made him a guiding light within the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me and my wife, Vivian, in paying tribute to Dr. Charles ``Chuck'' Franklin, Jr. for his dedication to serving others, his passion for promoting equality among individuals from different walks of life, and his deep commitment to his family and his faith. We extend our deepest sympathies to Dr. Franklin's family and friends during this very difficult time. May they be consoled and comforted by their abiding faith and the Holy Spirit in the days, weeks and months ahead.