Madeleine Bordallo

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Ms. BORDALLO asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, as the waters recede in New Orleans and as the families impacted by Hurricane Katrina attempt to recover, we must now embark upon the monumental task of helping to rebuild both the infrastructure and vitality of the Gulf Coast communities. We also have begun to reflect on the tragedy, one which many say is one of the worst disasters to strike an American city in our history. The people of Guam would like to express their condolences to the families that have lost loved ones, and to the thousands of people who are now struggling to recover from what can only be described as a humanitarian catastrophe. Families and individuals have been uprooted, homes have been destroyed, and the process of rebuilding will be long and arduous. The communities involved depend upon support from Congress, and we must fully fund every stage of the recovery that is necessary to rebuild homes and lives. We must also ensure that our cities and coastlines are protected as best as possible from perilous storms. The people of Guam know far too well the toll that hurricanes can have upon a population. Located in what is known as ``Typhoon Alley'' in the Pacific Ocean, our island is annually threatened and sometimes pummeled by typhoons that can have winds upwards of 180 miles per hour. These Super Typhoons have the potential for widespread devastation, but Guam is well prepared to withstand these potentially destructive storms. From tough building codes to a stratified warning system, Guam is in a state of constant readiness. In fact, at the time Hurricane Katrina was intensifying in the Gulf of Mexico, Guam was in a state of readiness as Typhoon Nabi was forecast to make a direct hit. In our case, the storm turned away, but nonetheless Guam was bracing for the worst. There is more our island needs to do to be better prepared for Typhoons, such as burying our power lines and improving our water system. We continue to perfect our disaster preparedness plan and harden our infrastructure. Our community, as well as all communities across the Nation, are now more dependent than ever on the support of the Federal Government to help us prepare for and recover from devastating storms. It is imperative that at-risk areas be better equipped and prepared, from the Federal level to the local level, to deal with hurricanes and other natural disasters. I support House Resolution 425 and urge its passage. Together, let us as a Congress, express the Nation's sorrow for the victims of this tragedy.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, World War II marked a great pivot point for our Nation and the world. The Allies' great victory against the forces of oppression endures today as a testament to the determination and will of freedom's progress over oppression. The end of the war in the Pacific was a triumph for liberty in the world, and though many lives were lost, the memories of their valiant sacrifice will never be forgotten. As we mark the 60th anniversary of the end of the war in the Pacific, we must also remember the sacrifices and hardships faced by the only Americans to be occupied during the war, the Chamorro people of Guam. For the island of Guam, the war in the Pacific was a dark time indeed. Thirty-two months of oppressive occupation caused hardship and suffering, necessitating sacrifice and perseverance by the Chamorro people. Today we honor those whose lives were lost during this period. Though the scars of the occupation remain today, the liberation of the island is remembered as a seminal moment in the history of the Chamorro people. The brave men of the 3rd Marine Division, the 77th Army Infantry Division, and the 6th Marine Provisional Brigade on July 21, 1944, fought tirelessly to liberate the Chamorro people and end the occupation. The people of Guam would like to acknowledge the enduring memory of these men who risked their lives on our behalf. Those who perished in this noble effort are today memorialized in solemn remembrance and will be for generations to come.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 378, and to acknowledge the positive impact and historical importance of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Signed into law 15 years ago today by President George Herbert Walker Bush, this Act has become recognized as a landmark law for civil rights and represents one of the crowning achievements of Congress over the past two decades. Its impact is felt every day in every community across America. Wheelchair ramps, signs in Braille, and curb cuts are now common place in every comer of our lives. The law has truly forever changed the landscape of America. Over these 15 years, the law has been challenged and debated, yet it has endured as a testament to those who desire to create an inclusive society where living with a disability does not mean disappearing into isolation. The law embodies everything that we in America should strive for; protecting the rights of all men and all women regardless of ability, mental capacity, or physicality. By removing barriers for peoples with disability, we also removed another barrier that prevented America from being a society where justice and equality prevail. I remain committed to the Americans with Disabilities Act and supportive of efforts to improve our infrastructure and policies to enable equal access for all people. In Guam, our community has made great strides in upholding the spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and we will be celebrating its anniversary this week. Our work in this area is not yet done, and we will strive to build upon the legacy that the Americans with Disabilities Act has created. I urge support for H. Res. 378.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I wish to speak very briefly on H.R. 3204. The cost of providing health care in the territories is relatively high, and corresponding insurance rates are high due to the number of factors, including high levels of chronic disease in small populations over which to spread risk. H.R. 3204 authorizes Federal seed funding and additional grants to the 50 States and the District of Columbia for the purposes of initiating and operating high-risk pools, but, Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, it fails to include the U.S. territories. I want to thank my colleague, the gentlewoman from the Virgin Islands (Mrs. Christensen), who was here speaking on my behalf earlier. I also want to thank the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Deal) and the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Brown). I respectfully request the gentleman's assistance and the attention of our colleague, the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Brown) in working to add the territories as eligible recipients of this funding as this bill moves through the rest of the legislative process and in any conference with the Senate on this reauthorization.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the gentleman from Wisconsin's (Mr. Obey's) Motion to Instruct Conferees on Veterans Health Care on H.R. 2361, the Interior Appropriations Bill. Our servicemen and women are making daily sacrifices for our Nation in far off lands. Many will return home scarred by combat wounds, many others scarred by the face of war. Having completed their service to our Nation overseas, these servicemen and women have earned more then a debt of gratitude from their Nation but a debt of care. In order to do this, we must properly fund the organization dedicated to their care, the Veterans Administration. I am pleased that the gentleman from Wisconsin, Mr. Obey, has offered a motion to highlight the inadequacy of the House passed appropriations measures for our Veterans. This motion instructs conferees to accept the Senate position on Veterans' medical care by adding a desperately needed $1.5 billion to the Veterans Administration budget. Guam recently welcomed home a company of the Guam Army National Guard following the unit's combat tour in Djibouti, Africa. Many other sons and daughters of Guam have served on active duty in units across the Armed Services. I have an obligation to do everything possible for these heroes in ensuring that Congress has made a commitment to their care equivalent to the commitment they made to the care of our Nation. It is time for the rhetoric of supporting our Soldiers and our Veterans to be met by our actions. I urge my colleagues to support the motion to instruct.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3200 because of the importance of making permanent the provisions included in P.L. 109-13, the War Supplemental, related to the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) Program. SGLI is an important benefit offered to America's servicemembers particularly during this time of war. Prior to passage of P.L. 109-13, SGLI provided inadequate life insurance coverage to American servicemen and women. This inadequacy became intolerable when juxtaposed with the sacrifices of servicemembers in the War on Terror. With the former maximum coverage level set at $250,000, a servicemember could not ensure that his or her family would have sufficient resources to endure a catastrophic loss. In the 2005 War Supplemental, Congress increased coverage to $400,000, and, importantly, applied the provision retroactively in order to provide relief to the many families that had already lost a loved one in combat. However, the provisions included in the supplemental will expire in September 2005. H.R. 3200 is important because it makes permanent the supplemental's provisions on SGLI including increasing life insurance coverage to $400,000. America asks her sons and daughters in the Armed Services to make extreme sacrifices to protect our liberties, our freedom and our way of life. Tragically, in the prosecution of the War on Terror many of our Soldiers have made the ultimate sacrifice. We have an obligation to those fallen heroes to protect the families they left behind. By providing for SGLI coverage that reflects the degree of our Soldiers' sacrifices and the needs of families when faced with the loss of a breadwinner, we are moving a step closer to fully and properly caring for America's heroes. This is not an option, but an obligation. I am pleased that the over one hundred thousand troops now deployed into combat zones in support of the War on Terror can rest easier knowing they will permanently have access to affordable and sufficient life insurance. While they protect all of us from duty stations overseas, today we are helping protect them here at home.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to voice my support for the Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD) Program, which has provided vocational training and employment opportunities to the blind and disabled since 1971. The JWOD Program, which brings together the Federal Government and approximately 600 non-profit organizations supporting the blind and disabled, is a model public-private partnerships for advancing the collective values of our nation. The unemployment rate among the blind and disabled in our country is estimated at approximately 70 percent. It is troubling that we as a society have not created a system that successfully makes the American Dream a real possibility for all Americans, and particularly for those who are blind or disabled. In my many years of public service, I have become acquainted with numerous individuals with disability. I have always been impressed with their vigor and spirit and their willingness to take on any task in order to contribute positively to our community and our society. These Americans do not come asking for a handout, but rather ask that we as public officials provide them with the tools they need to achieve self-sufficiency, personal fulfillment, and full inclusion in the benefits of our society. The JWOD Program stands as one of the most successful programs in addressing economic and social equality for blind and disabled members of our communities. The non-profits participating in JWOD have provided training and job opportunities to 42,000 individuals who are blind or disabled. The Federal Government supports these organizations through the Committee for Purchase from People who are Blind or Severely Disabled, which directs all Federal agencies to purchase certain products and services only from JWOD-affiliated organizations that train and employ blind and disabled. The net result is that the Federal Government uses its purchasing power to ensure a steady revenue stream to JWOD-affiliated organizations while at the same time acquiring products and supplies at a fair market price. It is also important to recognize the important role played by the National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and National Institute for the Severely Handicapped (NISH)-Creating Employment for People with Severe Disabilities. These non-profit organizations provide advice to the Federal Government as to which products or services it should include in its JWOD Procurement List, while at the same time providing technical, logistical, and marketing assistance to the 600 JWOD- affiliated organizations. These organizations also play an important role in advocating on behalf of the employment of blind and disabled individuals in traditional businesses and organizations. Needless to say, the success of JWOD would not be possible if not for the NIB and NISH-Creating Employment for People with Severe Disabilities. As we Americans strive to form a more compassionate society and a more compassionate world, it is important that we recognize the tremendous success of the JWOD Program and the dedication of those individuals and organizations who have made this program a success. I urge my colleagues to reaffirm their support for JWOD, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on legislation in support of this important program.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I wish to thank my good friend, the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) for yielding me the time and giving me the opportunity to speak on the floor today on this issue. December 7, 1941 would come to mark a historical pivot point for both America and the world. Two days later, the Chamorros people of Guam would also begin a dark and somber time. Over the next 31 months, residents were turned into refugees. Men, women, and children were massacred, an entire island enslaved. An estimated 700 Chamorro people perished over these years of occupation. On July 21, 1944, American troops once again touched the shores of Guam, ending the oppressive occupation. Liberation meant a restoration of faith and future to the Chamorros as they sought to reconstruct their island and their lives. The scars of battle still resonate, yet the lingering message of history will never fade 61 years later. I stand to honor those who fought to liberate our people and to honor the resiliency displayed by the Chamorro people in such formidable times. Just yesterday we went to Arlington to lay a wreath to honor those who perished. And tonight in the Cannon Caucus Room we invite the entire membership of the U.S. Congress and their staff and friends to come and join us in a liberation celebration beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Rosalind M. Won- Pat Fleet for 26 years of dedication and commitment to the security of this Nation through her career with the U.S. Department of Defense. I want to express my personal thanks to Rose as her family and friends gather to honor her accomplishments on the occasion of her retirement. Born on Guam to the late Congressman Antonio Borja and Ana Perez Won- Pat, Rose currently resides in Haymarket, Virginia. She is married to William Don Fleet and is the proud mother of three children, Natalie, William, Jr., and Michael. After graduating from George Washington High School in Mangilao, Guam, Rose attended the University of Maryland at College Park where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism and was a member of Theta Sigma Phi, the National Professional Society for Women in Journalism and Communications. She continued her postgraduate studies in Communications and Public Administration. Following in her family's tradition of public service, Rose began her career in 1984 as a Budget Assistant with the Commander of Naval Forces Japan (COMNAVFORJAPAN) in Yokosuka, Japan. Within 3 years, she became Budget Chief at the Office of the Director of Naval Intelligence (DNI) at the Pentagon. She continued her rise within the Department of Defense, serving as the Financial Resource Manager with the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), a Program/Budget Analyst at the Pentagon, and now, as a Senior Congressional Analyst with the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence. Her outstanding performance throughout her career has not gone unrecognized. She has received many awards, including the award for Sustained Superior Performance and the Quality Step Increase. Although Rose has spent most of her career away from Guam, she has never forgotten her roots, promoting and preserving the Chamorro culture through her active involvement as an Executive Board Member with the Guam Society of America, Inc. here in the greater Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Area. In addition, she has served as an Alternate Delegate for Guam to the National Conference of State Societies. I want to thank Rose for her many years of dedicated service in the day-to-day operations of our Federal Government. Your contributions are appreciated by your colleagues and fellow citizens. Dangkulo Na Si Yu'os Ma'ase.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of the late General Louis H. Wilson, a World War II veteran, a recipient of the Medal of Honor, and 26th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps. General Wilson was also a recipient of the Defense Distinguished Service Medal (First Oak Leaf Cluster) for ``exceptionally distinguished service'' during his four-year tenure as Commandant and his contributions as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He leaves his wife, the former Jane Clark of Pearson, Mississippi and one daughter, Janet. Our country lost a strong leader, courageous Marine, and dedicated patriot upon the passing of General Wilson. Born February 11, 1920, in Brandon, Mississippi, General Wilson earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Millsaps College, Jackson, Mississippi. In May 1941, he embarked upon his path of commendable service in the Marine Corps Reserve, as he enlisted and was commissioned a second lieutenant. As a young Marine, Wilson participated in the ferocious battle to liberate Guam. His actions during fierce combat on Guam, which was heavily occupied by the enemy for 32 months, earned him the Medal of Honor, the Nation's highest award for heroism and leadership. Wilson was promoted to the rank of Captain while serving overseas with the 9th Marines in 1943. His tour in the Pacific Theater took him to Guadalcanal, Efate, and Bougainville. In December 1944, he was transferred to Washington, D.C., where he served as Detachment Commander at the Marine Barracks and was presented the Medal of Honor by President Truman. The Medal of Honor was but the first accolade bestowed upon General Wilson during his service in the Marine Corps. In March 1970, Wilson was promoted to Major General. General Wilson was also awarded two additional Legion of Merit medals and the Korean Order of National Security Merit, GUK-SEON Medal, 2d Class and the Philippine Legion of Honor (Degree of Commander) for his service in those countries. On July 1, 1975, General Wilson received his final promotion to General when he assumed the office of Commandant of the Marine Corps. As Commandant, General Wilson advocated modernization of the post- Vietnam Marine Corps for the protection of his corps. His indomitable leadership and relentless dedication enhances the highest traditions of our country. I join the millions of Marines and their families in mourning the passing of this honorable man. General Wilson will always have a special place in the hearts of the people of Guam.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Title IX program which created equality, equality for young men and women in our Nation's schools. As Title IX celebrates its 33rd anniversary today, I am concerned with recent attempts to undermine the program that will reverse the progress Title IX has made in enabling young women to participate in sports. The Department of Education recently issued its ``Additional Clarification of Intercollegiate Athletics Policy: Three-Part Test, Part Three'' which changes the way schools determine female interest in athletics by making an e-mail survey the sole interest indicator. This new policy harms the Title IX program because it prevents schools from using a multi-method approach to assess female sports programs. By deciding to base the future of women's athletic programs on e-mail surveys, the Department of Education is denying women the same opportunities as men to participate in sports. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to continue to support equal rights for men and women in every arena of public life, including sports. I strongly urge the Department of Education to rescind its policy. Title IX opened the doors for women; let us not close them now.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the Obey-Lowey-Leach amendment to H.R. 3010. This amendment would restore $100 million that was cut from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting in subcommittee earlier this month. Public broadcasting is important for small communities across the country, even all the way out in the U.S. Territory of Guam. Small public broadcasting stations like KGTF Channel 12 in Guam are an important avenue for expression of local identity and community discussion. I am particularly concerned that the proposed cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) may disproportionately affect the CPB's commitment to quality programming for minority communities through the National Minority Consortia. For example, Pacific Islanders in Communications (PIC), which primarily receives its funding from CPB, develops Pacific Island media content and talent that leads to a deeper understanding of Pacific Island history, culture, and contemporary issues. Without continued funding from CPB, PIC would be unable to produce meaningful programs like Dances of Life or The Meaning of Food that have given indigenous communities in the Pacific a voice in our national conversation on race and culture. This August, PIC will be conducting a filmmaking workshop in Guam to build a greater capacity for cultural expression in the video medium. As KGTF celebrates its 35th year broadcasting in Guam, I hope to be able to tell them that the future looks bright for public broadcasting and that Congress is appreciative and supportive of their excellent work. I strongly urge my colleagues to support this amendment and restore funding to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Jaime Cardinal Sin, a leader of the Roman Catholic Church of the Philippines. Cardinal Sin was a great man, a strong leader, and a tireless fighter of injustice in his home country of the Philippines and throughout the world for decades. His passing is indeed a significant loss. Born on August 31, 1928, Sin was ordained a priest in the Archdioceses of Jaro on April 3, 1954. He was appointed Coadjutor Archbishop of Jaro on March 15, 1972, and on October 8, 1972, he assumed the office of Archbishop of Jaro, thus assuming full control of the archdiocese. On January 21, 1974, Sin was appointed Archbishop of Manila, and on May 25, 1976, Sin became the youngest member of the College of Cardinals, a distinction which he held until 1983. As the spiritual leader of the largest concentration of Catholics In Asia, Cardinal Sin held a great deal of influence over a substantial number of people. Rather than be content to simply influence the spiritual lives of his people, Cardinal Sin worked to affect change in the political and social arenas. Cardinal Sin was the central figure around whom the Philippine people rallied during both the People Power movement which restored democracy to the Philippines and the recent reformist movement. He was an outspoken critic, and his support of democratic reform helped to facilitate peaceful transition. Despite his retirement on September 15, 2003, Cardinal Sin remained a popular and beloved figure in the Philippines. He was a leading voice against abortion and the death penalty. He was outspoken against inequality and immorality, and his three decades of service to the Philippine people have left an indelible mark in history. Because of its geographic proximity and its large Filipino population, my district of Guam has traditionally held a very close relationship with the Philippines. I join the millions of Filipinos on Guam, in the Philippines, and throughout the world in mourning the passing of this great man.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support for the Velazquez amendment to H.R. 2862. This amendment would restore funding for the Small Business Administration's 7(a) loan guarantee program at fiscal year 2004 levels. Small businesses are the driving force behind job creation and productivity-enhancing technology. The 7(a) loan program has been a worthwhile investment for taxpayers, as statistics demonstrate impressive returns insofar as business growth and job creation, especially, Mr. Chairman, in economically disadvantaged areas like the territory of Guam that I represent. Perhaps for this reason a similar amendment introduced last year garnered strong support from both sides of the aisle, and therefore, I urge my colleagues to send a strong message that the House continues to value the importance of this program by again voting to restore funding for the 7(a) loan program.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Jon Junior Calvo for his service as a congressional page in the United States House of Representatives. Jon is graduating from the congressional page program on June 10, 2005. It is exciting that his parents, Juan and Doris Calvo, and two of his siblings, Jonathan and Joni Ree, were able to come all the way from Guam, 10,000 miles from Washington, D.C., to celebrate this occasion with us. Celebrating with us here in spirit is his sister Krisinda. The congressional page program brings together a diverse group of outstanding student leaders from around the country to work in Congress and pursue their studies in the Nation's Capital. It fuses classroom learning with real-world work experience, giving students like Jon a front row seat as history unfolds. I nominated Jon based upon his strong academic record, his demonstrated commitment to public service, and for his character and leadership in the community. He has lived up to and even exceeded my very high expectations for him. Jon is the kind of young person that lights up a room when he walks into it and makes a lasting impression on everyone he meets. In his first month in the program, Jon was recognized with a citizenship award that is given to one exceptional student in the program each month. Other Members of Congress have even remarked to me on the floor what an outstanding young person Jon is. Jon has been extremely active in the page program, serving on the yearbook staff and handling the public relations for the 2005 spring page class play, ``The Black Rose.'' While in Washington, D.C., he was also elected incoming president of the National Honor Society chapter at Father Duenas Memorial School in Guam, where he will complete his studies next year. I have enjoyed Jon's frequent visits to our office, and we always try and have a little taste of home for him when he stops by, whether it is guyuria, Chamorro chip cookies or red rice. I thought that coming from Guam Jon might have a rough time adjusting to Washington, D.C.'s, cold winter weather, but I think he actually enjoyed the snow and the ice. Jon has been an excellent ambassador for the people of Guam during his time here in Washington, spreading the ``hafa adai'' spirit throughout the halls of Congress. As a native speaker of Guam's indigenous language, Chamorro, Jon is a role model and example to other young people in Guam of the importance of preserving one's culture and one's language. I always enjoy seeing Jon's friendly face on the House floor, and he calls us to let us know that he is going to be on C-SPAN. He will be truly missed when he returns home to Guam. I am sure that I will still see a lot of Jon, though, considering how active he is in the community through his church and school. Jon is a young man of many talents, and I am excited to see what he will do in life. Whatever he does, I am sure he will continue making a positive contribution to our island. Before I close, I would like to say congratulations to all the wonderful pages that have come from all over the States in our Nation. You have been a wonderful group of people. Jon, you have made your family, your church, your school and the people of Guam proud. Si Yu'os Ma'ase for your service, and God bless you.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Midshipman Adrian Anthony Rempillo Evangelista on his graduation from the United States Naval Academy and his commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps on Friday, May 27, 2005. Adrian hails from our sister island to the north, Tinian. He is a young man of character and determination who, if his past success is any indication, has a promising future ahead. Adrian has distinguished himself during his four years at the Naval Academy, where he will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. Most Marine Corps officers seek positions in the infantry, but for Adrian--who marches to a different beat--Navy familiarization training has convinced him that Marine Corps aviation provides the greatest challenge and fulfillment. Following completion of his training in Quantico, Virginia, Adrian plans on pursuing a career as a Marine pilot and will attend flight school in Pensacola, Florida. Adrian was an outstanding athlete at the Naval Academy. As the 2005 Brigade Boxing Champion at the 139 pound weight class, Adrian went on to become the 2005 Midwest Regional Champion. He finished his collegiate boxing career by placing third at the National Collegiate Boxing Championship held in Colorado Springs, Colorado earlier this year, earning All-American Collegiate Boxing Team honors from the National Collegiate Boxing Association. Midshipman Evangelista's parents are Antonio and Evelyn Evangelista and he is the oldest of four children. He is a graduate of Tinian High School. We all share in the pride that the people of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands have in Adrian Evangelista's accomplishments. Semper Fidelis!

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006. This bill provides $441 billion in budget authority for the Department of Defense, as well as an additional $49 billion funding bridge for Fiscal Year 2006 costs associated with Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Overall I am pleased with the funding authorization level and the major initiatives outlined in this bill, though I do harbor reservations over several more minor provisions which I believe should be more thoroughly reviewed in conference. However, after working diligently with my colleagues on the Armed Services Committee, I am confident that we have produced a Defense Authorization bill that will support the mission of our men and women in uniform who are currently deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan and provide adequate direction for our armed forces to meet future challenges. One issue that I hope will be revisited in conference is that of allowing members of the National Guard and Reserves to access health benefits under the military's TRICARE program. Despite bi-partisan support for extending this benefit to National Guardsmen and Reservists, this provision was stripped from the Defense Authorization bill without the full consent of members of the Armed Services Committee due to a budget technicality. My colleague, Congressman Gene Taylor of Mississippi, had hoped to offer an amendment to the Defense Authorization bill to restore this provision. Unfortunately, however, the House Rules Committee did not make his amendment in order for consideration, therefore House members were deprived of the opportunity to vote to restore this important initiative. It is important that we recognize the hardship encountered by National Guardsmen and Reservists when they are called up for duty. In addition to placing their lives in the line of fire and separating themselves from their families for extended periods of time, these individuals must bear additional personal financial costs. One way to recognize their courage and sacrifice and to mitigate against the economic hardships that they must endure is to allow these men and women to enroll in TRICARE. TRICARE offers high quality coverage at a reasonable cost to members of the armed forces and their families. Allowing National Guardsmen and Reservists to enroll in TRICARE would serve as an additional incentive and help strengthen morale. At a time when the military is facing unprecedented difficulties insofar as personnel recruitment and retention, it is important that we do everything we can to demonstrate to our men and women of the National Guard and Reserves that we recognize their sacrifice and the hardship that they and their families endure. National Guardsmen and Reservists have played a vital and integral role as soldiers on the front lines of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. National Guardsmen and Reservists have been required to extend their tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan to a point where their level of involvement in this conflict is virtually indistinguishable from that of active duty members of the armed services. It is also clear that their efforts will be required indefinitely. We must take this opportunity to recognize the heroic efforts and the vital role played by our National Guardsmen and Reservists in securing freedom for the people of Iraq and Afghanistan. We must also recognize the evolving nature of the role of National Guardsmen and Reservists and how much our armed services now depend upon their service, a trend that one can only assume will continue in the future. These men and women have labored well beyond traditional tours of duty in order to help maintain security for the new democracies. They are soldiers and they deserve to be treated as such. I hope that conferees will revisit this bi-partisan proposal and that it will ultimately be included in the final version of the Defense Authorization Act.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Vince P. Diego for the completion of his Doctor of Philosophy in Anthropology from the State University of New York at Binghamton. I had the privilege of attending Dr. Diego's Doctoral degree presentation on May 14, 2005, and was extremely impressed by the accomplishments of this promising man who hails from the village of Inarajan and completed his undergraduate studies in biology at the University of Guam. Vince is an outstanding role model for young Chamorros in Guam and a shining example that perseverance, dedication and excellence will be recognized and rewarded. One of Dr. Diego's primary research interests is the rare neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/Parkinsons- dementia complex, which has a historically high prevalence in Guam where it is known as lytico-bodig. Dr. Diego's ongoing research with his dissertation advisor Dr. Ralph M. Garruto seeks to provide a greater understanding of this disease, which is one of the most compelling unresolved mysteries of modem medicine. He would like to return to Guam after he completes his training to carry out his own research on the biomedical problems of Chamorros, the indigenous people of Guam, and other Micronesians. His research interests also include diseases that are described as ``metabolic syndromes,'' which include heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and obesity. Chamorros, Filipinos, and other Asian and Pacific Islander American groups in Guam suffer disproportionately from these diseases. As the Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus's Health Task Force, I have called for the need to better understand how our communities are affected by these devastating diseases. Dr. Diego is one of the scientists who is on the front line of learning more about these diseases and how they can be prevented and treated in our communities. His current research activities as a post- doctoral scientist at the Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research's Department of Genetics include the statistical genetics of the metabolic syndrome in American Indians, Alaskan Natives, and Mexican Americans of San Antonio and on theoretical modeling in statistical genetics. Dr. Diego's parents are Frank Paulino Diego and Teresita Taitague Diego of Inarajan and he is the youngest of six children. He graduated from Guam's Father Duenas Memorial School in 1990.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2520, an act that will provide for a nationwide umbilical stem cell transplantation system. Not only does the implementation of such a system pave the way for numerous potentially life saving medical advances, but it builds on an area of study that has a demonstrated track record of success. Additionally, this legislation reauthorizes the national bone marrow transplant system, which has been a great success. The Twenty-First Century witnessed many great scientific achievements and medical advances. These advances have helped to cure or mitigate against a number of formerly terminal conditions and diseases. One can only imagine the possibilities that modern technology and modern research offer, which will yield even greater achievements in the near and distant future. However, we must also be cognizant of ethical standards to ensure that new technology does not compete with the moral standards of our society. H.R. 2520 is a good start. Studies have demonstrated that stem cells found in umbilical cords may be used to regenerate human nerve, blood, cartilage, skin and muscle cells. Research also demonstrates that conditions such as leukemia and sickle cell disease could be cured by more advanced umbilical cord stem cell research. Cord blood cells are already being used to treat over 67 diseases. We need to support this research, and creating a nationwide umbilical stem cell transplantation system is an important first step to providing scientists with the resources they need to make advances in this field of study. This database can also be used to allow potential donors to patients in need of various types of transplants. H.R. 2520 provides a vehicle for promoting and enhancing promising scientific research in the field of umbilical stem cell transplantation. It certainly meets the highest standards of bioethics and has a track record of scientific evidence suggesting that investing taxpayer resources to promote this field of study will result in positive dividends for the health of our communities. I strongly support H.R. 2520, and I encourage my colleagues to vote yes for this important legislation.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. I welcome this opportunity to highlight the contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander American communities to our nation. Asian Pacific American Heritage Month celebrates the contributions that Asian Pacific Islander Americans make in their daily lives. By sharing with us their heritage they bring us a greater understanding and appreciation for what it means to be Asian and Pacific Islanders and proud Americans. Asian and Pacific Islander Americans have embraced America while honoring their heritage and passing their traditions on to their children. Asian and Pacific Islander Americans also serve our country with pride and distinction in the Armed Forces. I would especially like to honor the uniformed men from Guam who have given their lives to protect our freedom. Army Specialist Christopher Wesley, Lieutenant Michael Vega, Sergeant Eddie Chen, Corporal Jaygee Meluat, Specialist Jonathan Santos, and Officer Ferdinand Ibabao all paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving in Iraq. We honor the way the experience of Asian and Pacific Islanders contributes to our national identity because while most of us understand words like freedom and oppression in the abstract, a Vietnamese-American can tell you how the dream of freedom can keep you alive while fleeing oppression on a boat in the high seas. A Chamorro or a Filipino-American who lived through enemy occupation during World War II can help you understand what freedom and liberty means because they had it taken away. If you have never experienced the immediate threat of war to your personal safety, a Korean-American can help you appreciate just how precious peace is. A Chinese-American or a Japanese-American can inspire you with their stories of making good on the American Dream after arriving in the United States without money, friends, or a strong understanding of the English language. Asians and Pacific Islanders have powerful stories to tell. Their contribution to America is not just the varied foods and diverse cultures they have introduced to this land, it is also the stories of their incredible journeys to freedom. As we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, let us honor the contributions of all Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. Let us appreciate the cultural diversity, the patriotism, and the communities that make America great.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the First Annual Asian Pacific American HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. As Chair of the Health Task Force for the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, and as the Delegate from Guam, which ranks fourth in the Pacific Region in the number of HIV/AIDS cases, I am deeply concerned about the impact of HIV/AIDS in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. While Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders together with Native Americans reportedly account for approximately 1 percent of new AIDS cases, the true impact of HIV/AIDS on the AAPI community is not fully understood because of the lack of data and information as well as a common misperception among the health professions that AAPls are a healthier population than other minority groups. Many view the Asian American and Pacific Islander population as the ``model minority,'' a stereotype that feeds the mistaken belief that AAPls are less at-risk for HIV/AIDS as other ethnic minorities. The reality is that AAPls are as much at-risk as other ethnic groups and in fact, have higher rates of many preventable diseases that are co- factors to HIV infection such as tuberculosis and Hepatitis B. In addition, the reported number of HIV/AIDS cases among AAPls is misleading due to a lack of detailed HIV surveillance, underreporting and misclassification of cases. Yet, the little data that does exist, points to increasing HIV rates within the AAPI population. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate a 25 percent increase in the number of AAPI AIDS cases from 1999 through 2002. As one of the fastest growing ethnic groups, made up of over 49 ethnicities and 100 languages and with annual growth rates among Asian ethnicities as high as 115 percent, effective HIV prevention and education programs which utilize culturally and linguistically appropriate strategies are urgently needed. These programs must also be supported at the federal level through changes in funding guidelines and requirements that take these factors into account. Pacific Island jurisdictions such as my district of Guam face additional challenges due to their remote location. These communities lack the infrastructure, capacity, equipment and training to deliver HIV/AIDS services. In addition, these jurisdictions lack community- based services and support found on the mainland. Prevention, testing, treatment and care depends on the local public health departments, many of which do not have the staff or funding resources to provide more than basic services. As a result, a diagnosis of AIDS usually means the patient will need to leave the island in order to receive proper care. Yet some choose to remain because of cultural and familial ties, sacrificing proper health care. No one should have to make such a choice. Today, as we observe Asian Pacific American HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, we must take this opportunity to educate and motivate our communities to advocate for resources to support initiatives that address these issues. I look forward to working with the Asian American and Pacific Islander community in support of these efforts.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last work for the purpose of entering into a colloquy with the gentleman from North Carolina (Chairman Taylor) regarding urgent construction and maintenance needs for the War in the Pacific National Historically Park in Guam. Mr. Chairman, my district, Guam, is home to a unique national park. The War in the Pacific National Historical Park was established by an act of Congress in 1978. It is the only site in the National Park System that honors the bravery and sacrifices of all of those who participated in the Pacific theater of World War II. Among the seven units of park and its features is a memorial wall at the Asan Bay Overlook as that preserves and honors for perpetuity the 1,642 names of Chamorro and American casualties who suffered or died during the war in Guam. The memorial wall was authorized by an act of Congress in 1993 and today is in dire need of repair and restoration. Mr. Chairman, my home island of Guam, as many of my colleagues know, is vulnerable to tropical intense weather conditions. In December of 2003, one of the most powerful typhoons to ever strike hit Guam with over 200-mile per hour wind gusts. Many elements of the park were casualties of this storm. In the aftermath of Supertyhpoon Pongsona, the service was forced to close the Park Visitors Center, which had been leased for several years and which has not yet been reopened or replaced. The memorial wall, in particular, has suffered since it was originally constructed and has deteriorated to unacceptable conditions. We are now commemorating the 60th anniversary of the War in the Pacific, and the need to repair and restore this memorial wall deserves the support of the service and this Congress. Of a more long term but just as deserving a need is the construction of an appropriate contact facility for the park to provide for the visitor experience and the interpretation of the war. Mr. Chairman, I am extremely disappointed that the service's budget request failed again this year to adequately take into account these needs. It is my hope that these projects, particularly the memorial wall, will receive greater attention and higher priority from the service as they allocate discretionary funds in fiscal year 2006 as they prepare the fiscal year 2007 and future budget requests. I would appreciate the help of the gentleman from North Carolina (Chairman Taylor) and the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Dicks) in ensuring that the service budgets appropriately for the needs of the War in the Pacific National Historic Park.

Ms. BORDALLO. I yield to the distinguished gentleman from North Carolina.

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for his commitment to the National Park Service and for his comments and concerns regarding the War in the Pacific National Historical Park in Guam. I look forward to continuing to work with the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Taylor) and the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Dicks) to address this serious situation.