Henry Brown

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today on behalf of Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Smith, and Mr. Evans, I am introducing H.R. 966, the Disabled Veterans' Return-to-Work Act of 2003. This bill reinstates a VA pilot program which expired on December 31, 1995. H.R. 966 would ensure the availability of vocational training to newly eligible VA nonservice-connected pension recipients. The program, open to those veterans age 45 years or younger, would provide disabled pension recipients the opportunity to receive training in order to return to the job market. There are many ways our veterans can and do contribute to the economy. Those veterans receiving nonservice- connected pension are in effect discouraged from seeking employment because of the needs-based structure of VA's Pension Program, whereby every dollar they earn is offset from the amount of monthly pension they receive. Mr. Speaker, I expect the Veterans' Affairs Committee to consider this bill during the 1st Session of the 108th Congress. It is time to reinstate the pilot providing vocational training to certain pension recipients rather than requiring these veterans to rely solely on the VA pension program and health care system for the remainder of their lives. I believe the pilot program indeed will furnish data showing that many of these veterans desire independence from, not dependence on, the current nonservice-connected pension program.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, each day we ask the members of our armed services to perform their jobs with bravery and courage. Air Force Staff Sergeant Stephen M. Achey of Summerville, South Carolina is a shining example of an airman who rose above and beyond the call of duty. Sergeant Achey, a command and control specialist with the 20th Air Operations Support Squadron, earned a Silver Star for his heroism in Afghanistan last March. While surviving a mortar round explosion and crippled with a disabled radio, Sergeant Achey endured heavy enemy fire while coordinating and directing an air strike that saved the lives of many American soldiers. Pinned down for 18 hours, he managed to divert American aircraft, saving them from destruction and sparing many lives. He also provided cover fire for the rescue of all wounded soldiers. This man exhibited the virtues of a true Lowcountry hero. If it were not for the courageous actions of Sergeant Achey, many of his comrades may not have survived and returned home. His gallantry is truly amazing and I am proud that he calls the First District of South Carolina his home.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this resolution to authorize the use of military force against Iraq. I stand behind the Commander-in-Chief and our men and women in uniform who may be called upon to defend America's freedom again. The War Powers Resolution was passed to ensure that the collective judgment of both the Congress and the President will apply before the introduction of our Armed Forces into hostilities. I want to commend the President for working with Congress on crafting this critical resolution. Time and time again, Mr. Speaker, Saddam Hussein and the Iraqi regime have refused to comply with the sanctions imposed by the United States and its international community. In 1990, Iraq committed an unprovoked act of aggression and occupation against its Arab neighbor Kuwait, a peace-loving nation. After the Gulf War, the Iraqi government continually violated the terms of the United Nations-sponsored cease-fire agreement. They refused to provide access to weapons inspectors to investigate suspected weapon production facilities. Americans and coalition force pilots have been fired upon thousands of times while lawfully enforcing the no-fly zone crafted by the United Nations Security Council. In 1993, they attempted to assassinate former President Bush. As we speak here today, members of al Qaeda are known to be within the borders of Iraq. Mr. Speaker, history has proven that Saddam Hussein and his government cannot be dealt with through diplomatic channels or peaceful means. He only understands death, destruction and trampling on the human rights of others, as evidenced by his treatment of the Kurdish people in Northern Iraq and anyone in his government who questions his power. Some may argue that America is acting as the aggressor and planning a preemptive strike without justification. To the contrary, this is anticipatory self-defense against evil forces and weapons that threaten our national security and peace and stability throughout the Persian Gulf and the world. We do not want to see another day like September 11 ever again in America, or anywhere else on God's great Earth. If we do not put an end to Iraq's development of its weapons of mass destruction program, the future could be worse. America must act forcefully and with great resolve because the costs are too high. The time has come for America once again to set the example for the rest of the free world. Our children and our grandchildren should not have to face this threat again. I ask all of my colleagues to vote in favor of this joint resolution.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I will never forget the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Although this unprovoked attack on our nation by faceless cowards sought to damage American will, there can be no doubt that we are more determined than ever to fight for our freedom and preserve our way of life. We have sent our sons and daughters into battle in Central Asia and throughout this world to bring the perpetrators to justice and to eradicate the scourge of terrorism from the face of the earth. I know that we will succeed. During the past year, we have pulled together as Americans with a renewed sense of patriotism and pride in all of our institutions. Each of us has made a tremendous difference in so many ways like donating blood or food to relief efforts and flying the American flag outside our homes as a sign of solidarity. In the Congress, members of both parties worked together in a bipartisan fashion like never before to demonstrate our resolve to the world community and to care for the victims and their families. When we sang “God Bless America” on the Capitol steps that same night, it was an incredibly emotional moment that truly touched my soul. It was a true honor to be in New York City at the special joint session of Congress. A couple of weeks after the attacks, I went to ground zero with other members to witness firsthand the devastation that had been wrought. The heroic determination of the firefighters, police officers and rescue workers will be etched into my mind for the rest of my life. When I returned to New York City, I was amazed of the progress that the people of this great city have made in the area where the Twin Towers once stood. It is truly a testament to the strength and heart of the citizens of New York and all Americans. It makes me proud to serve in the Congress. Like so many other members of Congress, constituents from the first district of South Carolina and their families were among the victims on that tragic day. They will be sorely missed, but we will never forget them. As we commemorate the unity of this great nation on the first anniversary of these terrorist attacks, I pray for these families and all Americans. The foundation of this great land is strong, and we will never waiver from our cause. God Bless America.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I missed rollcall Nos. 400, 401, 402, and 403 due to attending my brother-in-law's funeral. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'', on all four rollcalls.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a great American and a close friend, Mrs. Wanda Floyd, of Goose Creek, South Carolina. Wanda was born on February 1, 1926 and died on September 5, 2002. She will be sorely missed by her family and host of friends. Many politicians, including myself, owe much to the tireless work of this ``Republican Woman''. Wanda served in various roles throughout the county. She was the President of the Berkeley County Republican Woman's Club for many years and was a mainstay at the polls. In fact, she and her late husband, Bud Floyd, celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary working the polls at Goose Creek High School! Today, the county she loved, is much stronger, as is the Republican Party of the Low country. We, were blessed to have known and worked along side of this truly loved South Carolinian.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, small towns are God's little wonders and today I would like to recognize the small town of Awendaw in my district. Awendaw is known as the ``land of the Seewee Indians.'' It has a rich history that included a visit from the 1st President of the United States, George Washington while on a southern tour in 1791. During the 16th century, records show four Indian tribes that inhabited the land--the Samp, Santee, Seewee and the Wando. Agriculture was their way of life. In 1670, English colonists came to South Carolina at Port Royal in Beaufort. They traveled down the coast until they sighted what is now called Bull's Bay. They were captivated by the beauty of the unspoiled beaches, tall trees and dense forest. As the colonists approached the shore, Indians were waiting with bows and arrows. But the crew yelled out an Indian calling ``Appada'' meaning peace and the Indians withdrew their bows and welcomed them to shore. The Indians shared their food and the English colonists gave them goods such as, knives, beads and tobacco. Auendaugh-bough was the name of the settlement when the English colonists arrived but the name was later shortened to Awendaw. Awendaw is a special place. The arms of nature surrounds it and radiates its beauty. The Cape Romain Wildlife Refuge, the Francis Marion Forest and the Santee Coastal reserve create a natural wall of protection around the area. Hunting and fishing are still a means of getting food just as it was for the Seewee Indians. The Churches of the Awendaw community are a ``testimony of their faith.'' The Ocean Grove (formerly Pine Grove), Mt. Nebo A.M.E., Ocean Grove United Methodists and First Seewee Missionary Baptist are all historical churches that play a significant role in the lives of the people who live there. In November 1988, the people of Awendaw began its fight to become a town. For four years, the people gathered once a month at the Old Porcher Elementary School to plan, organize and share information with the people. There were many hurdles set before the people of Awendaw by the Justice Department. In 1989, Hurricane Hugo interrupted the process, but it was resumed in 1990. The Awendaw community made two unsuccessful attempts to incorporate. Finally, after the third try, the Secretary of State granted a certificate of Incorporation on May 15, 1992. On August 18, 1992, the town of Awendaw elected its first mayor the Rev. William H. Alston. The first town council were Mrs. Jewel Cohen, Mrs. Miriam Green, the Rev. Bryant McNeal and Mr. Lewis Porcher (deceased). This year the town of Awendaw will celebrate ten years of incorporation. The town has grown from 175 to over 1000 in population. Over the last seven years, the town of Awendaw has become famous for its annual Blue Crab Festival. This grand celebration brings thousands of people from neighboring communities to share in the festivities. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues would join me in a salute to one of God's little wonders, the Town of Awendaw, South Carolina. ``Thank God for small towns and the people who live in them.''

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the 80th birthday of a great American and an even greater South Carolinian, Mrs. Nancy Dinwiddie Hawk. Nancy Hawk was born on July 31, 1922. She is the proud mother of nine children and was the recipient of the ``National Mother of the Year Award.'' Nancy was a stay at home mom who always put family first. It was not until after her children were grown that she decided to pursue her dream to become an attorney. At the age of 55, Nancy Hawk graduated from the University of South Carolina Law School. Nancy is a natural leader, she was chairwoman of the South Carolina Republican Party for a number of years. She continues to be an inspiration to me and all who are fortunate enough to cross paths with her. Please join me in wishing Mrs. Nancy Dinwiddie Hawk a Happy 80th Birthday.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, small towns are God's little wonders and today I would like to recognize the small town of Awendaw in my district. Awendaw is known as the ``land of the Seewee Indians.'' It has a rich history that included a visit from the 1st President of the United States, George Washington while on a southern tour in 1791. During the 16th century, records show four Indian tribes that inhabited the land--the Samp, Santee, Seewee and the Wando. Agriculture was their way of life. In 1670, English colonists came to South Carolina at Port Royal in Beaufort. They traveled down the coast until they sighted what is now called Bull's Bay. They were captivated by the beauty of the unspoiled beaches, tall trees and dense forest. As the colonists approached the shore, Indians were waiting with bows and arrows. But the crew yelled out an Indian calling ``Appada'' meaning peace and the Indians withdrew their bows and welcomed them to shore. The Indians shared their food and the English colonists gave them goods such as knives, beads and tobacco. Auendaugh- bough was the name of the settlement when the English colonists arrived but the name was later shortened to Awendaw. Awendaw is a special place. The arms of nature surrounds it and radiates its beauty. The Cape Romain Wildlife Refuge, the Francis Marion Forest and the Santee Coastal reserve create a natural wall of protection around the area. Hunting and fishing are still a means of getting food just as it was for the Seewee Indians. The Churches of the Awendaw community are a ``testimony of their faith.'' The Ocean Grove (formerly Pine Grove), Mt. Nebo A.M.E, Ocean Grove United Methodists and First Seewee Missionary Baptist are all historical churches that play a significant role in the lives of the people who live there. In November 1988, the people of Awendaw began its fight to become a town. For four years, the people gathered once a month at the Old Porcher Elementary School to plan, organize and share information with the people. There were many hurdles set before the people of Awendaw by the Justice Department. In 1989, Hurricane Hugo interrupted the process, but it was resumed in 1990. The Awendaw community made two unsuccessful attempts to incorporate. Finally, after the third try, the Secretary of State granted a certificate of Incorporation on May 15, 1992. On August 18, 1992, the town of Awendaw elected its first mayor the Rev. William H. Alston. The first town council were Mrs. Jewel Cohen, Mrs. Miriam Green, the Rev. Bryant McNeal and Mr. Lewis Porcher (deceased). This year the town of Awendaw will celebrate ten years of incorporation. The town has grown from 175 to over 1,000 in population. Over the last seven years, the town of Awendaw has become famous for its annual Blue Crab Festival. This grand celebration brings thousands of people from neighboring communities to share in the festivities. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues would join me in a salute to one of God's little wonders, the Town of Awendaw, South Carolina. ``Thank God for small towns and the people who live in them.''

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the, ``city without limits'', Loris, South Carolina in their centennial celebration. On July 26, 1902, the city of Loris, South Carolina was incorporated and quickly became a trading post for the lumber, turpentine, and agriculture industries for Horry County. In 1997, the city of Loris was declared to be the second fastest growing city in the state of South Carolina. Although the city of Loris is growing fast it has not lost its small town charm. The location of Loris to the Grand Strand, the friendly citizens of the town, and the small town feel continue to make Loris, South Carolina a popular place for the relocation of families and businesses. I encourage you to join me and my fellow Carolinians in celebrating the 100th Anniversary and the accomplishments of the city of Loris, South Carolina.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor Corporal Kenneth Johnson of the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Last Sunday morning, around 2:15 a.m., Corporal Johnson was murdered in cold blood at a traffic checkpoint at College Park Road near Goose Creek. Mr. Johnson, a 12-year veteran of the highway patrol, leaves behind a wife, a 13-year-old son and a 7-year-old daughter. Kenneth Johnson was one of our Nation's best, risking his life day in and day out to preserve the peace and freedom that we often take for granted. He was a true American hero who gave his life for his country. Our prayers go out to his wife and children. They have lost a strong husband and father. In the last few days, the citizens of Moncks Corner have come together to take care of them in their time of greatest need, but they will need our help for longer than a few weeks. We all need to reach out to Kenneth Johnson's fellow law enforcement officers. It has been a tough week for them as well. I hope we come away from this tragedy with a renewed sense of the debt we owe to our law enforcement officers and with a renewed intolerance for the cruelty of someone who would end a life for one of South Carolina's best citizens.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 277 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I would like to submit the following poem, ``First Place in the Heart'', by a fellow South Carolinian, June L. McNeely. This poem expresses my feelings toward patriotism, family, and faith. by: June L. McNeely ``First Place in the Heart'' (By June L. McNeely) Let's put GOD back in America, let HIM have first place in our heart. Let's put GOD back in America and right now is the time to start. Let us all stand together as a family hand in hand and pray for GOD's mercy and for the healing of our land. HE has given us a country that is special to us all. Let's not bow to the enemy, but keep standing very tall. Let's put GOD back in America. This beautiful country we call home. Put HIM in our homes and schools and all of our gathering places. Then everyone in this world will see GOD's love in all our faces. Put all of your trust in your HEAVENLY FATHER. He will all of your burdens bear. HE will never leave you nor forsake you. HE has promised to always be there. HE will help you through each moment so all of your fears will cease. Let's put GOD back in America and with HIS help live with others in peace.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Florida for yielding; and I rise in support of making the death tax relief permanent and, quite frankly, with much puzzlement that we really need to debate this on the House floor today. On the one hand, it is simply a matter of fairness. The taxes being wrenched from the families is money that has already been taxed before. As an issue of morality, it is hard enough for a family to lose a loved one without having to endure the additional grief and burden that the Federal Government delivers to them. Too often business owners are forced to sell their businesses, and family farms are broken up so families can come up with the cash they need to pay the death tax. Moreover, as a practical matter, when people are planning their estates, it creates tremendous uncertainty when one does not know whether or not the death tax will resurrect itself within 10 years. Surely the Congress would never tell the American people that it is much more economic to die in the year 2010 than in the year 2011. But if nothing is done to make this relief permanent and the death tax is allowed to rise again, that is the sad reality of the policy we have created. We must be decisive on this issue and continue the good work we did in enacting the President's tax cuts. Not acting to make this relief permanent would be a dereliction of duty to the constituents we represent. Mr. Speaker, I would hope that the Congress would do the right thing and make this death tax relief permanent.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, we worked hard last year to provide real and meaningful tax relief to the American people, and I am glad to say that we succeeded in creating a package that was a true benefit to all who pay Federal income taxes. For too long the government has taken too much money from the pockets of the American people, and our President and Congress decided it was time to give some money back. This tax relief sunset was a major flaw in what was an otherwise great initiative. If Congress does not remedy this, families will go back to bed on December 31, 2010, only to wake up the next morning to the largest tax increase in the history of our country. Low income taxpayers will see a 50 percent tax increase. Families will once again be subject to the marriage penalty and will see the child tax credit cut in half. The death tax will once again rob children of family owned and operated farms and businesses. By passing this bill we can do what we meant to do all along, provide permanent tax relief to the American people. If any on the other side of the aisle believe it is right, either economically or morally, to increase taxes in order to put the people's money back into the coffers of the government, then they have every right to vote against this legislation and against this rule. I, for one, think it is important for Americans to see where their representatives stand on this issue, to see which side we are on, putting money in the pockets of the people, or the coffers of the government. Again, I support the rule, and hope others will as well.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman. It certainly was a pleasure serving with the gentleman in the State legislature. We were confronted with this same idea back, I guess in the early 1990s, and people said it would not work. People have been caught in this web of successive generations, caught in the web of welfare, and we felt like we wanted to give them an opportunity. I am pleased to have been a part of that and of having the privilege of working with the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Wilson). I am certainly so grateful to have the gentleman up here in Washington so that we can renew that same concerted effort to try to make a difference. I think we did back then, and I think this is a good program here. Mr. Speaker, I rise again in support of welfare reform legislation. As we continue to help people bridge the gap from welfare to work, it is crucial that we not lose sight of the need for further reform. Our welfare system still suffers from decades of mismanagement and unnecessary growth. It is incumbent upon us to further the improvements enacted by Republicans 6 years ago. In shortening the welfare rolls, we strengthen the backbone of working people. By helping hard-working Americans to find jobs, we restore dignity to deserving citizens. The success of our system is measured by the success of working Americans. Six years ago, Republicans took a great first step towards improving welfare. However, we cannot afford to stop short. We must walk the extra mile. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support further welfare reform. The American people must come before petty politics.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, it used to be that when Members took to the floor to discuss the issue of welfare there was not a lot of good news; but as a member of the Committee on the Budget, I am pleased to report that things are looking up thanks to the welfare reform legislation passed by the Republicans in 1996. Today, we are introducing a bill that builds upon the indisputable success of the 1996 law, and I am proud to support it. Republican-led welfare reform has proved successful by replacing welfare checks with paychecks, fostering independence, boosting personal income, and improving the well-being of children. It is critical that we continue to improve the welfare system so that people can continue to improve their lives. Six years ago, we made a historic and positive change in our society and the role of our government. We can now say with confidence that the system is working because people are working. We have turned a corner, but our work is far from being done. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues who supported the success of the 1996 bill to keep up the good work and spread the good word to those who doubted this landmark reform last time around. Let us put people before politics.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to have the honor to help receive my great friend today. Joe Wilson and I started our careers in the legislature about the same time. We served 16 years together, he in the Senate, I in the House. In fact, he was a good Senator to work with. I am proud to have him as my friend. Joe and his wife, Roxanne, became good friends of my family, and I have had the pleasure of watching his children grow up. It is a pleasure to be here today, Joe, to welcome you to this great body. It is a pleasure to have the opportunity to serve with you again. I welcome you to the U.S. Congress.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 477 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 476 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``Yea.'' Stated against:

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 478 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to two heroes of the first district of South Carolina who died in the September 11 attack on our country. Wendy Smalls of Johns Island was working at the International Securities Firm of Canton Fitzgerald on the 104th floor of the north tower of the World Trade Center when the attack took place. She leaves behind a 7 year old son, Tyree who is now living with his grandmother, Ms. Ethel L. Smalls of Johns Island. The community has responded by adding a room to the grandmother's house to expand the living space for little Tyree. Lyzbeth Glick, daughter of Richard and Joanne Makely of Johns Island, lost her husband Jeremy on United flight 93 that crashed in Pennsylvania. Jeremy was on the phone with his wife moments before taking on the terrorists. He told her that there were three hijackers and ``our best chance is to fight these people.'' He and several others decided to attack the hijackers to keep them from reaching their target. The plane went down and everyone on it died. FBI Special Agent Andy Black said that Jeremy Glick and the others lost their lives but spared countless lives by keeping the plane from reaching its intended target. Jeremy leaves behind his wife and their 12 week old daughter. The heroes of the first district of South Carolina will be missed but certainly not forgotten. We ask God's blessings for these families.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I would like to submit the following poem for the Record. United Through It All (By Mike Allen and Randall Bayne) On an island in the harbor, Lady Liberty's darkest day, Terror rose against our land. Evil had its way. We witnessed two strong towers As they came crashing down, Innocent lives were sacrificed In rubble on the ground. We stood in awe, in disbelief, Souls of thousands fell. In the horror of the picture, In the midst of this hell. We bound our sprits in resolve To answer freedoms call. This is America, We'll rise above it all. We're united in our victory, United in our cause. We'll stand against all enemies, Liberty has no walls. We're stronger than those towers, This country will not fall. We are Americans, United through it all. We'll bind our wounded. Grieve for those who died. Praise the heroes' efforts. And sing out with pride, ``America, America God shed his grace on thee, And crown thy good With brotherhood.'' For we're united in our victory, United in our cause. We'll stand against all enemies, Liberty has no walls. We're stronger than those towers, This country will not fall. We are Americans, United through it all.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I would like to submit the following poem for the Record. Dulce and Decorum Est Jim Cahalan, May 5, 2001 They once were boys, like you and me, Just little boys, not heroes then; Just small and ordinary. No one could have known that when Their country called them overseas They'd give their all, more than could bear We who stayed in tranquil leas, Gave out medals, but no care. We must engrave this one bold truth Of noble men who give their all, Keep us free from harm, forsooth, Safe, content, and out of thrall; Who leave behind their homes and wives All to brave those hellish places, Sacrifice their very lives, Saving our eternal blazes, And work to make much, much the less Of strife and human misery: Dulce et decorum est Pro patria vivere.