Henry Brown

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a great American and a true military heroine who has honorably served our country for 26 years in the Air Force Nurse Corps: Colonel Sharon B. Wright. Colonel Wright has a long history with the Air Force. She was born at Travis Air Force Base, CA and graduated from Hillcrest High School, Sumter, South Carolina when her father, Chief Master Sergeant Edward J. Wright, was stationed at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Colonel Wright followed the career path of her father, a 30- year Air Force Chief, and her mother, a Licensed Practical Nurse, both natives and current residents of Charleston, South Carolina. In 1980, she was commissioned through ROTC, and she was then assigned to Mather Air Force Base, California. Experienced and desiring to make a difference, she next served at Kunsan Air Base, Korea and Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, where she deployed to Honduras with the U.S. Army. In each assignment she excelled and was rewarded with greater responsibilities and opportunities. In 1988, she became the Chief, Nurse Recruiting Branch, at Gunter Air Force Base, Alabama. A proven leader, she was the Top Recruiter in 1988 and 1991, and she received the Recruiting Standard of Excellence award in 1990. In 1991, she assumed duties as the Coordinator of Maternal Health Services at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware. In 1994, Colonel Wright was assigned to Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, as a Nurse Utilization Officer. During her tenure she completed over 2000 assignments, managed five commands, and maintained staff levels at an unprecedented 95-plus percent. In 1998 Colonel Wright assumed her first command at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. As the Squadron Commander, she also assumed the roles as the Chief Nurse Executive and Deputy Group Commander. Incirlik presented significant challenges. Three weeks after arrival, a devastating 6.3 earthquake hit. Colonel Wright took charge as the on- scene Medical Group Commander. After her stellar performance at Incirlik, she went on to her second assignment as Squadron Commander at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas in 1999. Her astute leadership led to her appointment as Deputy Program Executive Officer at the Joint Medical Information Systems Office and Force Development Program Manager at the Office of the Surgeon General, at Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, DC. Colonel Wright's last assignment brought her back to Texas as the Chief, Nurse Utilization and Education Branch, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas. In this position, she was responsible for managing assignments, career progression, and sponsored educational opportunities for 3,700 Air Force Nurses. Colonel Wright is a meritorious leader, administrator, clinician, educator, and mentor. Throughout her career, she has served with valor and profoundly impacted the entire Air Force Medical Service. Her performance reflects exceptionally on herself, the United States Air Force, the Department of Defense, and the United States of America. I extend my deepest appreciation on behalf of a grateful nation for her over 26 years of dedicated military service. Congratulations, Colonel Sharon B. Wright. I wish you Godspeed.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize a group of volunteers serving at SPAWAR Charleston in the First Congressional District of South Carolina. Volunteering is a powerful force for the solution of human problems, and the creative use of human resources is essential to a healthy, productive and humane society. Our nation's heritage is based on citizen involvement and citizen participation. Volunteerism is of enormous benefit in building a better community and a better sense of one's own well being. Many agencies that benefit from volunteers will be participating in programs to show appreciation and recognition to the many volunteers among our citizenry who possess many skills and talents which they generously and enthusiastically apply to a variety of community tasks; and to encourage others to participate in programs as volunteers I encourage all SPAWAR Charleston employees to get involved in serving others. I charge those interested citizens to observe this day by seeking some area in the community in which they can devote a few hours each week and give aid to people or programs in need. I wish you all the best!

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize a great American and a true military heroine who has honorably served our country for 26 years in the Air Force Nurse Corps: Colonel Sharon B. Wright. Colonel Wright has a long history with the Air Force. She was born at Travis Air Force Base, California, and graduated from Hillcrest High School, Sumter, South Carolina, when her father, Chief Master Sergeant Edward J. Wright, was stationed at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Colonel Wright followed the career path of her father, a 30- year Air Force Chief, and her mother, a licensed practical nurse, both natives and current residents of Charleston, South Carolina. In 1980, she was commissioned through ROTC, and she was then assigned to Mather Air Force Base, California. Experienced and desiring to make a difference, she next served at Kunsan Air Base, Korea, and Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, where she deployed to Honduras with the U.S. Army. In each assignment she excelled and was rewarded with greater responsibilities and opportunities. In 1988, she became the Chief, Nurse Recruiting Branch, at Gunter Air Force Base, Alabama. A proven leader, she was the Top Recruiter in 1988 and 1991, and she received the Recruiting Standard of Excellence award in 1990. In 1991, she assumed duties as the Coordinator of Maternal Health Services at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware. In 1994, Colonel Wright was assigned to Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, as a Nurse Utilization Officer. During her tenure she completed over 2000 assignments, managed five commands, and maintained staff levels at an unprecedented 95 plus percent. In 1998, Colonel Wright assumed her first command at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. As the Squadron Commander, she also assumed the roles as the Chief Nurse Executive and Deputy Group Commander. Incirlik presented significant challenges. Three weeks after arrival, a devastating 6.3 earthquake hit. Colonel Wright took charge as the on- scene Medical Group Commander. After her stellar performance at Incirlik, she went on to her second assignment as Squadron Commander at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, in 1999. Her astute leadership led to her appointment as Deputy Program Executive Officer at the Joint Medical Information Systems Office and Force Development Program Manager at the Office of the Surgeon General, at Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, DC. Colonel Wright's last assignment brought her back to Texas as the Chief, Nurse Utilization and Education Branch, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas. In this position, she was responsible for managing assignments, career progression, and sponsored educational opportunities for 3,700 Air Force nurses. Colonel Wright is a meritorious leader, administrator, clinician, educator, and mentor. Throughout her career she has served with valor and profoundly impacted the entire Air Force Medical Service. Her performance reflects exceptionally on herself, the United States Air Force, the Department of Defense, and the United States of America. I extend my deepest appreciation on behalf of a grateful nation for her over 26 years of dedicated military service. Congratulations, Colonel Sharon B. Wright. I wish you Godspeed.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Rogers amendment to H.R. 4167, the National Uniformity for Food Act. Unfortunately, in this day and age we need to look at every piece of legislation that we consider through the eyes of those we ask to cope with the unthinkable, in this case a food emergency or bioterrorist situation. The last thing we want to do is unnecessarily handcuff the local, State and Federal officials who respond quickly in times of crisis. That is why I support this amendment. It would require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to certify to the Congress that the National Uniformity for Food Act would not in any way inhibit the ability of local, State or Federal authorities to respond to a food emergency or bioterrorist event. The bill cannot take effect until that certification, in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security, is complete. H.R. 4167 as originally written would have had no effect on a State's ability to respond to a food emergency or bioterrorist threat. The FDA and the States would continue to work together to cope with that type of situation. I, for one, am comforted by Mr. Rogers' amendment and ask my colleagues to support it unequivocally.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, a constituent and respected businessman, T. Jeffrey Littlefield, vice president of TRICARE North Region Operations for PGBA, LLC, will soon be joined by many members of his family in recognizing their patriarch, Thomas Wadsworth Littlefield, on the occasion of his 87th birthday, April 8. The quote that his son Jeff recalls hearing his father say often is ``this too shall pass.'' In living by these words, Mr. Littlefield sought to give strength to his family when faced with challenges that seemed too great to bear. Like many of his generation, he knew firsthand the frequency and degree to which life could present great challenges. It is the sad horror of human existence that there will always be evil leaders who would deprive others of life and liberty to satisfy their own zealous quest for corrupt power. Never was this more evident than during World War II. Men such as Thomas Wadsworth Littlefield represent the very backbone of America--having sacrificed so much for the good of family, nation, and religious freedom--their collective actions singularly define them as our ``Greatest Generation.'' When he joined battle and fought bravely in the last offensive against Japan while serving as a Private First Class in the U.S. Army's 105th Infantry, H Company, at Okinawa, Japan, Mr. Littlefield faced threats and fears that most of us will, thankfully, never come to know. Like many American soldiers, his military service did not end there as he fought to defend liberty in numerous locations in and around Japan throughout World War II. In living commemoration of the great Victory over Japan, known commonly as ``VJ Day,'' he named his second daughter, Vicki Jane Littlefield (``V.J.'') born in August of 1945, soon after Japan surrendered. Not long after winning the peace, Mr. Littlefield returned to civilian life and worked to win the hearts and minds of faculty, parents and children as elementary school principal in the Weber County school district of Ogden, Utah. There, he labored for 30 years, laying the foundation for a new generation of American leaders; eventually retiring at age 65. Before the war, Mr. Littlefield attended Weber State College (now Weber State University) in Ogden, where he led them to numerous victories as their football quarterback. Later, he attended Utah State University in Logan, Utah, where he received his educator's degree. An avid sports fan, he always enjoyed snow skiing, tennis and exploring the trails of Mount Ogden on his dirt bike several times a year. Raised on a turkey farm in Morgan, Utah along with eight brothers and sisters, his mother, Kate Wadsworth Littlefield, helped to nurture leadership in their family by serving as an active Republican event organizer and as the first female United States Postmaster in Morgan County, Utah. A faithful follower of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Mr. Littlefield was always active in church events and, together with his wife of 65 years this coming June, raised their family as Mormons. Thomas Wadsworth Littlefield and Myrtle Carrigan Littlefield have been blessed with nine grandchildren and nine great- grandchildren. In August of this year, T. Jeffrey Littlefield and Tommy Starling will share another blessing, as this loving family will welcome grandchild number 10 into the world. Throughout his life, Mr. Littlefield's philosophy and outlook on life was to make sure that his children were raised with love and to instill in them the confidence, drive and an ambition to succeed. In so doing, it was his fervent hope to see his descendants achieve more than he could ever experience in his own life. A testament to his service, sacrifice and values, Mr. Littlefield will be joined by family members in presence and in spirit on April 8 to herald the celebration of his 87th birthday. At this time, Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize, individually, the names of those so dear to this great American: Thomas Wadsworth Littlefield, Father; Myrtle Carrigan Littlefield, Mother; Joseph Littlefield, Paternal Grandfather; Kathryn Wadsworth Littlefield, Paternal Grandmother; Irvin Carrigan, Maternal Grandfather; Catherine Jones Carrigan, Maternal Grandmother; Patti Ann Fowers, Daughter; Norman George Fowers, Son-In-Law; Holly Fowers, Granddaughter; Heather Fowers Smedley, Granddaughter; Daren Smedley, Heather's husband; Jonah Smedley, Great Grandson; Annabelle Smedley, Great Grandson; Nate Fowers, Grandson; Kaleb Fowers, Great Grandson; Mitch Fowers, Grandson; Vicki Jane Olson, Daughter; Brook Clyde Olson, Son-In-Law; Marci Olson Kiehl, Granddaughter; Sam Kiehl, Marci's husband; Jake Kiehl, Great Grandson; Spencer Kiehl, Great Grandson; Alli Kiehl, Great Granddaughter; Kami Olson Howe, Granddaughter; Chad Howe, Kami's husband; Conner Howe, Great Grandson; Hunter Howe, Great Grandson; Rylie Jo Howe, Great Granddaughter; Audri Ann Olson, Granddaughter; Jenni Olson, Granddaughter; Thomas Jeffrey Littlefield, Son; Thomas Brent Starling, Partner and future Son-In-Law; and Carrigan Shea Starling-Littlefield, if the latest addition to their family is a Granddaughter, or Hayden Thomas Starling-Littlefield, if the newborn is a Grandson. War veteran, educator, father and grandfather, athlete, and loving husband, his life and service to our nation helped to forge a nation and spread Democracy the world over. Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Mr. Thomas Wadsworth Littlefield and his extended family on the occasion of his 87th birthday.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me time and for his leadership in bringing these bills to the floor. Madam Speaker, H.R. 3665, the Veterans Housing and Employment Improvement Act of 2005, provides needed enhancements to veterans' benefit programs. Specifically, I would like to discuss the provisions which were contained in H.R. 3279, the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program Reauthorization Act of 2005, of which I was an original cosponsor. H.R. 3279 was rolled into H.R. 3665 in the full committee markup held on October 7. This legislation would reauthorize HVRP through fiscal year 2009. Currently, the authority for this program expires at the end of fiscal year 2006. This legislation continues the current authorization for $50 million per year. I am eager for this legislation to be sent to the President as soon as possible. The Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program, or HVRP, is designed to take the men and women who are probably the most difficult population of veterans to serve off the streets and return them as productive contributors to society. It is a tall order and one that presents unique challenges to both the government and to those who deliver services to homeless veterans. HVRP program providers have taken on this difficult task and have turned HVRP into one of the most successful programs in the Federal Government. HVRP grantees are taking on the difficult task of breaking the cycle of homelessness. I urge my colleagues to support this program and this important legislation.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding and also for his leadership in bringing this bill forward and for his leadership as chairman of the Veterans' Committee. Mr. Speaker, as a cosponsor of H.R. 4061, I rise in support of the Department of Veterans Affairs Information Technology Management Improvement Act of 2005. This legislation calls for a strategic plan that includes performance measures and an integrated enterprise architecture, working to create greater accountability within VA. Money spent by VA in its modernization efforts has been costly. For example, VA spends $485 million annually to maintain VISTA, VA's 25- year-old medical information system. It does not seem economical to spend $485 million each year on out-of-date computer application systems in the 21st century. Passage of H.R. 4061 would build on the work of the committee over the past few Congresses in expecting accountability of VA's people and resources and for the IT programs of the Department. Restructured IT management at VA will have an impact on VA's ability to provide services to veterans more quickly and effectively. Subsequently, it will help improve the health care of our Nation's veterans. As chairman of the Subcommittee on Health, it is my mission to ensure our veterans have the quality health care they have earned and deserve.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1691, a bill that would name the VA outpatient clinic in Appleton Wisconsin the ``John H. Bradley Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic''. John ``Doc'' Bradley died at the age of 70 on January 11, 1994. After his appearances at the last bond tour, John married his childhood sweetheart, Betty Van Gorp, and raised eight children with her. John served as a Navy Corpsman during World War II and was the longest surviving member of the six who raised the second flag on Iwo Jima. Two days after landing with his regiment in Iwo Jima on his first campaign, Second Class Bradley earned the Nation's second highest award, the Navy Cross, for ``extraordinary heroism.'' Bradley rushed to the aid of a wounded Marine under heavy Japanese fire, bandaged his wounds and then pulled the soldier 30 yards to safety. A few days later, Bradley received several shrapnel wounds to his legs, and was evacuated to a hospital in Hawaii. John's family had no knowledge of him receiving a Navy Cross until after his death. It is a most appropriate honor that we name the VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic located in the town where he grew up, after the quiet and unassuming Mr. John Bradley.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Captain Russ Keller, United States Navy, as he retires upon completion of more than 26 years of honorable and faithful service to our nation. A native of Pittsburgh, PA, Captain Keller was appointed to the United States Naval Academy in 1975 and graduated with the class of 1979. Following initial nuclear power and submarine training, he reported to his first submarine, USS Trepang (SSN 674), where he served as the reactor controls assistant and later as the weapons officer. His assignment on Trepang was followed by a shore assignment in the Pentagon as flag lieutenant and aide for the Navy's Director of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation. Captain Keller next attended Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government, where he earned a masters in public administration degree. Following his tour at Harvard, he returned to sea as the Navigator on board USS Simon Bolivar (SSBN 641) (BLUE), where he completed five strategic deterrent patrols in the final days of the Cold War. Upon departing Simon Bolivar, Captain Keller remained at sea as the executive officer on board USS Narwhal (SSN 671), where he prepared the ship's crew to return to sea following a 37-month refueling overhaul. Following his tour as Executive Officer, Captain Keller was assigned to the Navy Staff in Washington, DC where he served in the strategy and concepts branch. In June 1995 Captain Keller received the most coveted and demanding of all naval assignments when he was selected for Command at Sea. He served as the Commanding Officer of USS Springfield (SSN 761) for 31 months, during which time the ship completed several independent submarine missions vital to national security. Based on his successful command tour, Captain Keller was selected by the Navy's Chief of Legislative Affairs to serve in the Office of Legislative Affairs, where he was assigned initially as the submarine and strategic programs liaison officer. Following two years working these issues, he was promoted internally and assigned as the Director of Naval Programs, with responsibilities for all Navy procurement, operations and maintenance, and research and development programs. His tenure in the Office of Legislative Affairs spanned five defense authorization bill cycles and earned him the trust and respect of members of Congress, committee and personal staff members as well as senior officials in the Department of the Navy. A role model and mentor to those who worked for and with him, he made his impact on people as well as programs. Through his brilliant insight and dedication, he contributed directly to the future readiness of the United States Navy and the nation. In September 2002 Captain Keller was selected for major command, and served his final tour on active duty as the Commanding Officer of the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Charleston, SC from July 2003 until July 2005. Under his supervision, thousands of future naval nuclear operators and supervisors completed the most rigorous academic training program in our military while being imbued with the highest standards of personal integrity and reliability. Captain Keller's distinguished awards include the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and numerous unit and campaign awards. The Department of the Navy, the Congress, and the American people have been defended and well served by this dedicated Naval Officer for more than 26 years. Captain Russ Keller long will be remembered for his leadership, service and dedication. He will be missed. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have Russ and Chris Keller as constituents. I ask my colleagues in the 109th Congress to join me in congratulating him and wishing him the best of luck in all his future endeavors.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Chairman, in the 32 years that the Endangered Species Act has been in effect, we have learned a lot of lessons over time and seen the areas where it needs some improvement. I believe that the gentleman from California (Chairman Pombo) and other members of the House Committee on Resources have worked very hard to come up with a piece of legislation that protects property owners' rights and improves the way that we protect and rehabilitate endangered species, and I am proud to be an original cosponsor of this legislation. Mr. Chairman, one of the most important aspects of H.R. 3824 deals with private property owners' participation in species recovery. I believe in America it is a fundamental right to be able to own property and to be able to enjoy that property. I visited a country back during the spring that no citizen in that country could own property or they could lease it for 25 years or 99 years; and, Mr. Chairman, I do not believe America wants to return to that fundamental time where we could not own property, we could just live on property owned by somebody else. I believe taking property that allows somebody an option not to be able to use their property how they intended, property they used their hard-earned money to purchase is fundamentally wrong. Specifically, H.R. 3824 will provide certainty for private property owners by allowing landowners to request a written determination as to whether their land use activities will violate the take prohibitions of section 9. It will also compensate private property owners for the fair market value for foregone use of their property where the Secretary has determined that the use of that property would constitute a take under section 9. I believe we should protect our endangered species but not at the expense of our private landowners. Mr. Chairman, there is a better way to protect endangered species; and I believe it is H.R. 3824, the Threatened and Endangered Species Recovery Act of 2005. I encourage my colleagues to vote ``no'' on the Miller substitute amendment and ``yes'' on the final passage of H.R. 3824.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am writing to notify you that I was absent July 19, 2005. The reason for my absence was that I had to have an emergency appendectomy at the Bethesda Naval Hospital. Regarding the votes that I missed please see below for the way that I would have voted had I been present: Vote No. 383--previous question, ``aye''; vote No. 384--adoption of the rule for H.R. 2601, ``aye''; vote No. 385--Hyde amendment, ``aye''; vote No. 386--Kennedy (MN)/Hooley/Osborne/Souder amendment, ``aye''; vote No. 387--Hooley/Souder/Baird amendment, ``aye''; vote No. 388-- Souder #4 amendment, ``aye''; vote No. 389--Smith (NJ) amendment, ``aye''.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am writing to notify you that I was absent July 22, 2005. The reason for my absence was that I had to have an emergency appendectomy at the Bethesda Naval Hospital. Regarding the votes that I missed please see below for the way that I would have voted had I been present: Vote No. 415--Velazquez No. 3 amendment--``nay'' and vote No. 416--final passage of H.R. 3070--NASA Authorization Act of 2005--``aye.''

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am writing to notify you that I was absent July 20, 2005. They reason for my absence was that I had to have an emergency appendectomy at the Bethesda Naval Hospital. Regarding the votes that I missed please see below for the way that I would have voted had I been present: Vote No. 390--King (IA) No. 46 Amendment--``aye'', Vote No. 391--Kucinich Amendment--``nay'', Vote No. 392--Lantos Amendment--``aye'', Vote No. 393--Rogers (MI) Amendment-- ``aye'', Vote No. 394--Watson No. 38 Amendment--``aye'', Vote No. 395-- Berkley/Crowley Amendment--``aye'', Vote No. 396--Rohrabacher Amendment--``aye'', Vote No. 397--Ros-Lehtinen Amendment--``aye'', Vote No. 398--Democrat Motion to Recommit--``nay'', Vote No. 399--Final Passage of H.R. 2601--``aye'', Vote No. 400--Rolled Suspension Vote on H. Res. 326--``aye''.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am writing to nofify you that I was absent July 21, 2005. The reason for my absence was that I had to have an emergency appendectomy at the Bethesda Naval Hospital. Regarding the votes that I missed please see below for the way that I would have voted had I been present: Vote No. 401--Previous Question--``aye.'' Vote No. 402--Adoption of the Rule for H.R. 3199--USA PATRIOT and Terrorism Prevention Reauthorization Act of 2005--``aye.'' Vote No. 403--Flake/Schiff Amendment--``aye.'' Vote No. 404--Issa Amendment--``aye.'' Vote No. 405--Capito Amendment--``aye.'' Vote No. 406--Flake/Delahunt/Otter/Nadler Amendment--``aye.'' Vote No. 407--Delahunt/Flake/Otter Amendment--``aye.'' Vote No. 408--Flake/Otter Amendment--``aye.'' Vote No. 409--Berman/Delahunt Amendment--``nay.'' Vote No. 410--Schiff/Coble/Forbes Amendment--``aye.'' Vote No. 411--Hart Amendment--``aye.'' Vote No. 412--Jackson-Lee Amendment--``nay.'' Vote No. 413--Likely Democrat Motion to Recommit--``nay.'' Vote No. 414--Final Passage of H.R. 3199--USA PATRIOT and Terrorism Prevention Reauthorization Act of 2005--``aye.''

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an extraordinary South Carolinian by congratulating the Honorable Robert W. ``Bobby'' Harrell, Jr. of Charleston on his recent election to Speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives. Bobby Harrell was first elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1992 and quickly earned the respect of his fellow members. Bobby is a man of diligence, integrity, and ability. In 1994, he was appointed to the Ways and Means Committee, where he served as chairman of the Economic Development Subcommittee and the Public Education Subcommittee. He was elected chairman of the full committee in 1999. Mr. Speaker, Bobby Harrell has always been a steadfast advocate for tax relief, educational opportunities, and economic development. As he begins his tenure as Speaker, I know he will continue to strive to assist all South Carolinians. Bobby has excelled in every endeavor he has pursued, and his private life is no exception. He is a devoted family man with deep convictions. Bobby is married to Cathy Smith Harrell and is the proud father of two fine children, Trey and Charlotte. He and his family are members of the First Baptist Church of Charleston, where Bobby served as a deacon for many years. He is a successful entrepreneur, recently celebrating a quarter of a century operating a State Farm Insurance Agency and Oak Haven of Charleston, an assisted-living community. Additionally, Bobby has served as a leader in many national, State, and local civic and business organizations. Mr. Speaker, Bobby Harrell is a good friend and I am proud to have the Speaker of the South Carolina House as a constituent. I ask my colleagues in the 109th Congress to join me in congratulating him on his recent election to Speaker and wishing him the best of luck in all his future endeavors.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, 100 years ago tomorrow President Theodore Roosevelt made the important decision to create the U.S. Forest Service. The agency was given a unique mission: to sustain healthy, diverse, and productive forests and grasslands for present and future generations. Mr. Speaker, the Forest Service has come a long way in the past 100 years. Forests like the Francis Marion National Forest in my district are valuable to the community and to environment. Currently, the U.S. Forest Service is responsible for 192 million acres of mountains, grasslands, rivers and wilderness resources that sustain 80 percent of the Nation's freshwater supply and hosts 214 million recreational visits each year. Mr. Speaker, I also wanted to recognize Forestry and Forest Health Subcommittee Chairman Walden for his effort on behalf of our Nation's forests and for his continued efforts to implement President Bush's Healthy Forest Initiative. To the Forest Service, I wish it a happy birthday and I hope that it has 100 more years of success in the future.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New York for yielding me this time. No one wants to be told that the Department needs nearly $1 billion more than anticipated, but the Secretary of Veterans Affairs has frankly come forward and acknowledged that their budget model has been simply overpowered by a host of factors, including an unexpected surge in demand this year. The numbers that we discuss is important, because they have a real impact in all of our districts and for our constituents who have served this great Nation. The consequences of chronologically underestimating the funding requirements, in my mind, are simply unacceptable. As chairman of the Subcommittee on Health of the Committee on Veterans Affairs, my job now and our collective job tonight is to fix this problem. I want to commend my chairman, my good friend from Indiana (Mr. Buyer) for his leadership and having the courage to dig deep into this issue and address this in a head-on way. I also want to commend the gentleman from New York (Mr. Walsh) for his efforts in moving quickly to get this measure to the floor tonight. Together, with our Senate colleagues, I hope we can move forward in a bipartisan manner to get these much-needed funds into the hands of those who provide the quality care to our veterans every day across this great Nation. I think it is critical that we continue the dialogue with the VA that we have started so that we can ensure that the health care needs of our veterans continue to be met in a reliable and timely fashion. Equally important, I want to continue to work with the Secretary and the administration to refine the budget process for coming years, making sure that we avoid similar shortfalls in the future. As the chairman of the Subcommittee on Health, I want to assure all of the veterans that are out there tonight that we are going to be absolutely sure that their health care needs are met in a timely manner. With that in mind, Mr. Speaker, I would urge my colleagues here in the House to support this resolution.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I was absent from 12:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on June 28, 2005. The reason for my absence was that I was required to testify before the Regional BRAC Commission hearing in Charlotte, North Carolina on behalf of my constituents. Regarding the votes that I missed please see below for the way that I would have voted if I had been present: Vote No. 324--Rolled Suspension Vote on H.R. 458--Military Personnel Financial Services Protection Act. ``Yea.'' Vote No. 325--Previous Question on the Rule for H.R. 3057--Foreign Operations, Export Financing and Related Programs Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2006. ``Yea.'' Vote No. 326--Pitts Amendment. ``Nay.'' Vote No. 327--Previous Question on the Rule for H.R. 3058-- Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development, The Judiciary, District of Columbia, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2006. ``Yea.'' Vote No. 328--Adoption of the Rule for H.R. 3058--Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development, The Judiciary, District of Columbia, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2006. ``Yea.''

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Alaska (Chairman Young) and the gentleman from Minnesota (Ranking Member Oberstar), the gentleman from Wisconsin (Chairman Petri) and the gentleman from Oregon (Ranking Member DeFazio) for bringing this bill to the floor. I appreciate their continued leadership and the efforts to provide the necessary funds to meet the transportation infrastructure needs of this great Nation. This bill will provide funding for projects that have been in extension funding for too long. In order for our transit needs to be addressed across the country, this bill must be passed with haste and due diligence. The South Carolina Department of Transportation will need nearly $2 billion in total funding to construct the I-73 corridor within South Carolina. Congress has previously identified this project as a high priority corridor in the ISTEA legislation, and there is tremendous support for I-73 throughout the State. In fact, the entire South Carolina congressional delegation has included this project as one of its main transportation priorities in South Carolina. We also know that there is strong support for the I-73/I-74 interstate system from the North Carolina delegation, as well as the States of West Virginia and Virginia. The Grand Strand region is one of the fastest growing areas in South Carolina. Annually, more than 14 million visitors come to the Myrtle Beach coastal area. Yet, there is currently no interstate facility to serve this vital sector of the State's economy. The lack of a direct interstate link to other interstate routes near Florence creates serious traffic problems during the peak tourist season and safety concerns during times of hurricane evacuation. In fact, a study showed that it could take nearly 26 hours to evacuate the population given the current transportation infrastructure. Without a doubt, the vitality of South Carolina's economy is directly related to the continued financial success of the tourist industry of the Grand Strand area. Inclusive of this vital highway as a Corridor of National Significance will greatly expedite the completion of this project and will benefit our districts and South Carolina by reducing congestion and providing a much-needed hurricane evacuation route, increasing the safety of motorists and improving the opportunity for needed economic development. The I-73 corridor, Mr. Chairman, will improve the quality of life of many of my constituents as well as the millions of Americans who come to my area.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mrs. Marie Pringle who is retiring as a senior budget analyst for the General Administration and Coordination Service in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Budget at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). She began her career with VA in July 1983. Mrs. Pringle has served her entire VA career in the Department's Office of Budget. During her tenure, VA's budget has grown from $25 billion to $73 billion with over 222,000 employees. Mrs. Pringle's career spans more than 30 years of federal service. She began her federal service in 1972 at the Department of the Army, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Intelligence, Directorate of Foreign Intelligence, Scientific and Technical Branch, as a clerk typist GS-4. Next she served with the Department of the Army's Office of the Surgeon General, U.S. Army Medical Department Personnel Support Agency. In 1978, she accepted a position in the Department of Energy, Energy Information Administration, as a budget analyst. In 1981, she accepted a position at Steuart Petroleum Company in Washington, DC. After 2 years as a motor fuels inventory accountant, Mrs. Pringle returned to public service with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Mrs. Pringle has received numerous awards in recognition of her exceptional performance throughout her federal service career. She is a graduate of the Department's prestigious Leadership VA program, Class of 1992. She also was a member of the American Association of Budget and Program Analysts (AABPA). Mrs. Pringle received a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from George Mason University. She is a native of Washington, DC, and currently resides in West River, Maryland, with her husband Darian. The Pringles have been sponsor parents for midshipmen of the United States Naval Academy and enjoy sailing and cruising on their trawler, the Galileo. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Budget Committee, as well as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Benefits of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, I can appreciate how challenging it can be to deal with the federal budget. When the committees review VA's five-volume budget submission each February, we see the industrious work of Mrs. Pringle and her associates on behalf of the Secretary. I commend Mrs. Pringle for her more than 30 years of dedicated public service to our nation and to those who have worn the military uniform.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his kind remarks. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 2486, the Veterans Benefit Improvement Act of 2004. We have been working on this comprehensive bill throughout the 108th Congress, like our chairman said. I commend the Committee on Veteran's Affairs leadership for bringing it to the floor today. It incorporates 14 separate House bills and comprises 43 substantive provisions. Countless servicemembers, veterans and their families will directly benefit from S. 2486. Likewise, Mr. Speaker, by significant enhancing and modernizing the VA on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs for veterans, American businesses and industry will feel the positive effects of this bill, as well as 858 civilian occupations offer apprenticeships. These improvements can be especially useful to American small businesses, the bedrock of our economy. I would like to briefly note Title V of the bill, which addresses the needs of our most vulnerable veterans, those who require a fiduciary to handle monetary benefits received from the VA. It is an unfortunate fact that when someone is responsible for another person's money, temptations may arise to take advantage of that position, ultimately to the detriment of the person being assisted. S. 2486 would add protection for incompetent veterans or dependents when their benefits are misused. Currently, over 100,000 veterans, widows or adult helpless children and minors have an appointed fiduciary. While VA overall does a good job of protecting this population, S. 2486 addresses many of our concerns with the fiduciary program. Mr. Speaker, I applaud the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith), our great chairman, and the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans), the ranking member, for their continuing foresight and leadership, as well as my great friend, the gentleman from Maine (Mr. Michaud), the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Benefits. In addition to the Subcommittee on Benefits as a whole, I thank the members of the committee who worked with the gentleman from Maine (Mr. Michaud) and myself for bringing the bill forward. The full committee's vice chairman, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis), the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ginny Brown-Waite), the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Davis), the gentleman from New Hampshire (Mr. Bradley), the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes); indeed, this has been a team effort. I also want to thank the Subcommittee on Benefits staff on both sides of the aisle. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Veterans Benefit Improvement Act of 2004.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to have the opportunity to talk about a positive, life-affirming journey which represents the best and the brightest of my district. It is with tremendous pride that I rise today to commend Dr. Robert Stuart from Charleston, SC, for being one of the 20 cyclists to participate in the Bristol-Myers Squibb Tour of HopeTM. The Tour of Hope is a grueling eight-day bike journey across America that is designed to help raise awareness about the need for increased participation in cancer clinical trials. The cross-country tour is the brainchild of Bristol-Myers Squibb and Lance Armstrong, six-time Tour de France winner and cancer survivor, who credits his survival to the many people before him who participated in the clinical trials that ultimately led to the development of the treatment that saved his life. As Robert begins the Tour of Hope on October 1 in Los Angeles, he will be one of 20 cyclists chosen from nearly 1,200 riders who were eager to dedicate themselves to being a part of the effort to cure cancer. The Tour of Hope Team members are cancer survivors, caregivers, physicians, nurses, and researchers. Each of them has a very personal experience with cancer that makes their efforts all the more poignant. Supporting and awaiting Robert and the rest of the riders at stops across America's great landscape will be cancer survivors, family members, friends, medical practitioners, researchers, and government officials, all of whom share the riders' passion and commitment to finding a cure for cancer. To achieve his goal of riding across America Robert will have to undertake a rigorous training schedule, battle inclement weather, and endure physical and mental fatigue, so that the tour's message--the need to support cancer research--can be delivered to communities across our great country. A selfless act, such as this, truly deserves to be publicly acknowledged, and I look forward to tracking Robert's progress. It is my hope that in these fiscally challenging times my colleagues and I will continue to make funding for cancer research a priority for the nation. I offer my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Robert for his generosity of spirit, time, and fortitude. It is precisely this type of commitment that will allow us to conquer cancer once and for all.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Charles ``Chuck'' Strang, who on September 29, 2004, will mark 20 years of service with the Servicemembers' and Veterans' Group Life Insurance programs. Chuck is the director of the Office of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (OSGLI), the office established by the Prudential Insurance Company of America to administer VA's Servicemembers' and Veterans' Group Life Insurance programs (SGLI and VGLI). Following the example set by his family's military service, Chuck served in the U.S. Army from 1966 through 1969. Trained as a Communication Center Specialist, he spent his entire military career in Nuremburg, Germany. In 1982, he earned an Associate's Degree in Occupational Studies with a major in Life and Health Insurance from The College of Insurance in New York City. Chuck's distinguished career with OSGLI began on September 24, 1984, as the manager of New Business and Insurance Services. Through various managerial positions, he became a recognized authority on the many details of veterans' insurance programs, and was promoted to Director in 1993. Chuck's accomplishments at OSGLI are many. Some noteworthy program enhancements he has overseen include: an increase in servicemembers' insurance coverage from $35,000 to $250,000; the addition of insurance coverage for family members; reductions in premiums for each of the veterans' insurance programs; and allowing terminally ill insureds to receive up to 50 percent of their Servicemembers' or Veterans Group Life Insurance coverage in a lump sum. Through nationwide toll-free telephone service, Internet access to personal accounts, design and installation of updated computer systems, and imaging capabilities, Chuck has instituted changes that have improved service to policyholders and their families. Mr. Speaker, I have spent all my life in the business world and it is evident to me that owing to Chuck Strang and the Office of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance, VA's SGLI and VGLI insurance programs are two of the best-managed in the government. I am pleased to pay tribute to Chuck's professionalism and dedication to our Nation's servicemembers, veterans, and their families.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Honorable Dorcas R. Hardy recently chaired the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Task Force of the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Task Force issued its report in March 2004, and furnishes an excellent road map on how VA can place a stronger emphasis on long-term sustained employment for disabled veterans who are vocational rehabilitation participants. I was especially impressed with the section entitled, More Challenges Await: A Final Word from the Task Force Chairman, and commend it to my colleagues as an example of Ms. Hardy's wisdom and foresight: More Challenges Await: A Final Word From the Task Force Chairman Addressing the benefit, rehabilitation, and employment needs of persons with disabilities--and especially veterans with service-connected disabilities continues to be difficult, and often controversial. One thing is certain: The Department of Veterans Affairs cannot afford to fail the veteran who has given so much in the service of our Nation in previous wars and now in this age of terrorism. There is no doubt in my mind that VA's Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program can become the best public rehabilitation program in the country, given appropriate resources and leadership. The new comprehensive, integrated 21st Century VR&E Employment-Driven Delivery System, which is proposed by the Task Force, builds on the strengths of the past and provides a continuum of service delivery, from military service to career counseling, appropriate retraining, and education, to employment or transitional independent living services with the ever- present goal of employment. The new system can provide the answer to a disabled veteran's transition to civilian society--a job. Employment program will necessitate a major shift in attitude and approach. The current reality is that the VR&E program--despite the legislation of 1980--continues to operate as a VA education benefit for disabled veterans. It provides a larger stipend than the GI Bill program, and is accompanied by some counseling, as necessary. The new program, on the other hand, addresses the continuum of ``life cycle'' needs that a veteran with disabilities experiences, of which education may--or may not--be a necessary part. The focus will be the rehabilitation and employment needs of the 21st century service-connected disabled veteran. Because the United States is at war, and will likely be in conflict situations for the foreseeable future, there must be a sense of urgency on the part of the entire Department as well as the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Service to create this new 21st century service delivery system. I respectfully suggest that no more reports or discussions are needed, just immediate and concrete actions that are supported by the Administration, the Department, and the Congress. If this vital program, with its potential for becoming the most outstanding vocational rehabilitation system within the federal government, is unable to quickly and effectively serve the 21st Century veteran, then one must consider other options. These options include: (1) contracting the program out with clear and stringent requirements to follow the employment intent of the law, or (2) recognizing that the mandated employment focus of the program is not possible and reintegrating VR&E into the Education Service of the Veterans Benefits Administration, adding an additional stipend for disabled veterans. Having served in various state and federal governmental positions, including Commissioner of Social Security and Assistant Secretary of Human Development Services, I have worked with numerous social services policies and programs. Cash benefit services, such as the VA Compensation and Pension Service or Social Security provide support through direct payments. These programs require development of automated claims processing methodologies. Direct and personal services are those provided by VR&E or social service agencies. Different skills, personalities, and approaches are needed for each part of the delivery system. VR&E stands as an island in the sea of the Veterans Benefits Administration, a claims processing organization. VR&E is not connected to the claims processing functions, nor do other business lines have any particular appreciation or understanding of its function. Both cash and direct benefits are needed to support the veteran. Development of a seamless, integrated delivery system is the challenge. Many have suggested that the entire VR&E program should become a part of the Veterans Health Administration, which has more of a hands-on service delivery focus. Just as the Task Force rejected the idea of moving the VR&E Independent Living program to VHA at this time, that same thinking can be applied to moving all of VR&E to VHA. VR&E needs to address its own shortcomings first, wherever it is housed, before participating in another reorganization. If implemented with commitment and enthusiasm, the Task Force's recommendation to rebuild the VR&E Service can be successful. Building the new service delivery system cannot be done slowly, nor sequentially. It must be driven with clear and focused timeframes; and it must be done believing that each veteran's future depends upon an effective new approach. Leadership and management will be key; timeframes that some may deem un reasonable should become standard; processes must be streamlined and supported by technology; and veterans must recognize that they, too, have an individual responsibility to complete their vocational rehabilitation plan and secure employment in a timely manner. Future Policy Considerations Throughout the discussions and deliberations of the Task Force, several broad policy issues were raised that were not thoroughly addressed, either because they were not directly within the scope of this Task Force's work or, in several cases, they were far more complex than our time permitted. Some issues were just too controversial at this particular point in time, but their ``tipping point'' will come and thoughtful policymakers and managers should be prepared to consider their breadth, shape, and impact upon VR&E. As the Veterans Benefits Administration proceeds to modernize VR&E, these longer term policy considerations, which cross the business lines of VBA, should be discussed and addressed. Each issue below will arise in the foreseeable future; each issue will have a significant consequence for the successful future of a 21st century VR&E program. role of counseling and transition assistance in the veterans benefits administration Historically, VBA had a focus on personal counseling about requested benefits and services through face-to-face contact with the veteran. Today, the Compensation and Pension Service provides outreach services to veterans through the Veterans Service Centers but the focus is ``you are entitled to benefits from the VA and here is the claim to file.'' This is not counseling in the traditional sense, rather a method to ensure that veterans receive cash benefits to which they are entitled. Since the VR&E Program is the only benefit that is provided face-to-face to the veteran, VR&E, with its professional counseling staff, should provide all outreach services to veterans, regardless of whether or not the veteran is disabled. A veteran with financial or life cycle or any other issues should be able to access counseling services at a VR&E office. Such a policy may necessitate additional resources beyond what is recommended at this time to rebuild the VR&E program. need for new programs This report highlights the need for clear and comprehensive data about the population that is served by VR&E. Without such data, as well as research, we will not be able to project who the service-connected disabled veterans of the future will be, nor what their needs will be. Questions that should be addressed include: Will their injuries and disabilities be considerably different than those of recent veterans? Will the technology used on battlefields or in medical rehabilitation impact more significantly the veteran's future ability to be a productive member of civilian society? How will medical advances, as projected by the Institute of Medicine or the National Institutes of Health, impact the VR&E program? The Task Force's analysis of types of disabilities of veterans entering the VR&E program found that the number of veterans determined disabled due to neuropsychiatric illnesses is increasing. The increase in mental conditions is also being seen by other public benefit programs such as Social Security Disability Insurance. It appears that the majority of veterans in the Independent Living program are those with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Yet, as this report clearly states, Independent Living status within the VR&E program should not be the sole response to their needs. An assessment of the impact of an increased number of mental health disabilities on the VR&E services should be conducted as soon as possible. The outcome will likely conclude that new programs should be developed jointly with VHA to address the needs of these veterans. Of equal importance will be the development of a methodology that guides how VR&E interacts with VHA to plan for new solutions to disabling conditions. impact of an aging veteran population on services Every social services delivery policymaker is well aware of the general aging of the population. The question should be raised as to the expected impact of the graying of veterans upon VR&E. Issues such as the aging of the general workforce could mean less discrimination against older veterans in the workplace and therefore more older applicants for VR&E services. As veterans age, many are filing additional claims for disability compensation, and many may initiate or renew their requests for VR&E services. VR&E should be proactive in addressing at least the following questions: Should VR&E accept all disabled veterans regardless of age? Is age a criterion for prioritization of expected services? How should VR&E balance its resources vis-a-vis age of applicant and number of times services have been requested? impact of disability determination The VA disability benefits adjudication system has been the subject of discussion and controversy for many years. Congress recently established, as part of the 2004 Defense Authorization Act, the Veterans' Disability Benefits Commission to study the compensation benefit structure and complete a report in 2005. They are directed to examine the appropriateness of such benefits and the appropriate benefit determination standards, compare veterans' benefits with other public and private sector disability benefits and, perhaps most important, ``consult with Institute of Medicine of National Academy of Sciences with respect to medical aspects of contemporary disability compensation policies.'' Ideally the Commission's deliberations will provide a framework for many policy decisions related to the VA's disability criteria that will be updated to reflect the current state of science, medicine, technology, and labor market conditions. Such recommendations could be the catalyst that moves veterans' disability policy toward use of scientific advances and incorporates economic and social changes that have already redefined the relationship between impairments and the ability to work within the private sector. Such discussion and modern approaches could significantly impact the workload and processes of VR&E. For example, currently there are nearly 175,000 veterans with a 60 percent or more disability rating who have applied and receive a determination that they are ``Individually Unemployable.'' The designation of ``Individually Unemployable'' entitles the veteran to a 100 percent rating with commensurate compensation. Yet the adjudication process never includes the views of a vocational rehabilitation counselor as to whether or not the beneficiary could participate in the labor force or whether a strong vocational rehabilitation or counseling program would be effective in assisting the veteran achieve employment, perhaps using assistive technology or other types of supports. The questions that are raised are: Without input into the IU determination process from a trained rehabilitation expert, should IU veterans or those applying for IU status be served by the VR&E program? How can an individual be officially designated ``unemployable'' (a label that should be an anathema) and allowed to participate in an employment program at the expense of another veteran who wants and needs a job? It is recognized that over the years, the Congress and the courts have expanded the scope and complexity of veterans' disability benefits. It is hoped that the Commission will conduct a thorough review of the benefits schedule and challenge the status quo. They might begin by asking how a tender scar, migraine, or mild asthma can be the sole'' disability'' for which a veteran receives compensation according to a rating schedule and is thereby automatically eligible for VR&E services, in the same manner as a severely-disabled veteran. The GI Bill for the Future The Task Force learned that more than 75 percent of those who enter the VR&E program proceed through a rehabilitation plan that includes a goal of a college degree. Though the data is not clear, one can assume (given the number of discontinued and interrupted participants) that most veterans spend far more than 4 years attaining their degree. Equally important, most of these ``students'' never exhausted their GI Bill benefits. One assumes that is because the VR&E education benefits are considerably more generous than the current GI Bill. This pattern raises some questions: Does this mean that deficiencies exist in the current GI Bill? Or are veterans with disabilities just looking for the best deal? Should there be changes in the GI Bill that might make it more appealing to veterans with disabilities? What should they be? In 1998, the then Vocational Rehabilitation and Counseling Program wrote a strategic management document that addressed the reasons that the program desperately needed to change in order to provide effective services to disabled veterans. The reasons for change were: Inadequate focus on employment, Customer perceptions and expectations are out-of-step with the program's intent, Inability to monitor outcomes and provide feedback to the program; Inadequate IT support for the program, Inadequate access for veterans, Inadequate coalitions with peer organizations and partners, and inefficient business processes. Despite such introspection, not much has changed. This 2004 Task Force Report not only urges management to rebuild the VR&E program but also provides a clear road map as to how to accomplish the objective. There is no excuse for lack of success. The Charge Unfortunately, there are not as many successful social service delivery programs as one would like. Positive outcomes for adults, as measured by an individual's independence and employment, are often difficult to attain. But I believe the mighty band of nearly 1,000 VR&E staff has the resourcefulness and dedication to build a new service delivery system for veterans with service-connected disabilities. With leadership, appropriate resources, a broad and creative approach, and what I term ``cheerleading support,'' they can reinvent themselves, they can get energized, and they can be the best program serving the 21st century rehabilitation and employment program--and just in time for those 21st Century service veteran. VR&E can become the model public sector members returning from Iraq, Afghanistan, or anywhere else in the world where freedom calls. It has been a privilege to chair this Task Force and present our report. Dorcas R. Hardy, Chairman, VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Task Force.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4175, the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2004. Congress acts annually to provide a cost-of-living adjustment in VA disability compensation and survivors benefits. Congress has provided increases in these rates for every fiscal year since 1976, and the administration's fiscal year 2005 budget includes the cost for this increase. As well as providing the cost-of-living adjustment effective December 1, 2004, and codifying the current dollar amount for veterans and survivors benefits, H.R. 4175, as amended, would add osteoporosis to the list of diseases presumed to be service-connected for former prisoners of war. This particular provision is derived from H.R. 438, which the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) introduced in January of 2003. The vice chairman has long been a champion for former POWs, and I regret that due to budgetary obstacles we were not able to consider his bill in its entirety. I appreciate his understanding in that regard. Madam Speaker, I note that last year the Secretary of Veterans Affairs convened a work group comprised of officials from the Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefits Administration and the Office of General Counsel, to develop a methodology for a fair and balanced assessment of medical conditions identified and associated with POW detention. This summer, the workgroup will recommend to the Secretary any conditions it believes warrant either presumptive status or further study. I look forward to meeting with the Secretary upon the work- group's findings. I want to thank the gentleman from Maine (Mr. Michaud), the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Benefits, for his efforts on this bill and urge all my colleagues to support it.