Madeleine Bordallo

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I thank my friend, the gentleman from American Samoa (Mr. Faleomavaega) for yielding. As has been stated, the Office of Insular Affairs has proposed a new competitive grant formula for capital improvement grants that derive from a reprogramming of funds authorized under Public Law 94-241. I commend the Department for addressing the capital infrastructure needs of the Territories and in proposing a formula whereby grants can be increased or reduced depending upon each Territory's performance through evaluation on proposed criteria for financial management and improved accountability. Mr. Chairman, I note that the committee report on this provision indicates the Secretary may use discretion to modify the funding formula to address appropriately court-ordered infrastructure projects in the respective Territories. In the case of Guam, I would note for the record that the government of Guam is under a consent order for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements in the amount of $200 million to comply with the Clean Water Act and also under a second court order to close the Ordot landfill at a cost of $30 million to remedy additional violations of the Clean Water Act. Given these circumstances, is it the committee's intent that the Secretary should consider these court orders in determining allocations for the infrastructure grants?

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me this time. The Senate has included a provision in their version of this legislation that uses an offset derived from closing a loophole in residency requirements for filing taxes in the U.S. Territories to fund Green Bonds. Given that this issue has been addressed by the House in other legislation, I hope that the House will take the position that this offset should be used instead to help the U.S. Territories with the unfunded federal mandate of the earned income credit, and I hope he can help us with this provision.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ronald Reagan--a beloved President who changed America and the world. I first want to express my deepest condolences to Former First Lady Nancy Reagan and the Reagan family. An entire nation shares your sadness over the loss of our former President; a man of humble beginnings who rose to capture our hearts and minds, our hopes, and our aspirations. Ronald Reagan embodied the spirit of what it means to be an American. As much as he was a leader of the people, he was also a product of the people, which helped him to relate with people from all different backgrounds. He was born to a working family in a small rural town, and brought up to respect traditional values such as family, hard work, God and country. Blessed with an unmistakably entrepreneurial spirit, he set out to pursue the American Dream. Ronald Reagan lived through and endured tremendous economic hardship during the Great Depression. Despite these challenges, he put himself through college by earning a scholarship, washing dishes, waiting tables, all while sending some of his earnings home to his parents to help support his family. His strong character was forged by hard work. Driven by the belief that all people should be able to live freely, Ronald Reagan joined the American people and the world community to rally against the tyrannical oppression of the Axis powers and to defeat Nazism in Europe. United behind the many brave soldiers fighting for freedom in Europe and the Pacific, Ronald Reagan volunteered his talents to create instructional videos critical to the training of Army recruits during World War II. A staunch defender of freedom and democracy, Ronald Reagan would, after the defeat of the Axis powers, turn his attention to vanquishing from the world another threat to liberty: Communism. Ronald Reagan began his political ascendancy in 1966 during his campaign for Governor of California. He would go on to win the first of two terms as California's governor before reaching the White House in 1980. His conservatism appealed to many across political and cultural lines. We will always remember his optimism and confidence in America's future. From ``sea to shining sea,'' President Reagan, recognized the importance and value of every individual and every community to our country's strength. On two separate occasions, President Reagan visited Guam, America's most distant Territory. On these occasions, I had the honor of hosting President Reagan as First Lady of Guam along with my husband Governor Ricky Bordallo, experiences I remember fondly. Donning ``island-wear'' rather than more formal business attire, President Reagan was approachable and personable and put those around him at ease. His charm and grace left a lasting impression on those he came into contact with. He was as genuine and real in person as he was behind the podium or in front of the camera. He recognized the importance of Guam in promoting American values in the region, calling our island ``America's flagship in the western Pacific.'' President Reagan declared: ``It's said that it's here on Guam each morning that the Sun first casts its rays upon the Stars and Stripes. Well, my friends, I can't think of a more beautiful way for America's day to begin.'' While these words are recorded in history, it is the grace and sincerity with which he delivered those words that are remembered by the people of Guam. The outpouring of love and affection President Reagan has received from family, friends and the entire American family is a testament to his life and all of those he touched. Through courage, clarity and compassion, he led the people of this great nation and the entire world from the perils of the Cold War to the hope of liberty, freedom and dignity. His spirit will continue to live in the hearts and minds of all of us for whom he dedicated his life of public service. The advent of freedom in the former Soviet Bloc and the spread of democracy throughout the world will forever be linked to his famous challenge, ``Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!'' On behalf of myself and the people of Guam, I want to say ``Adios, esta ki.'' Goodbye until we meet again.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, this year is the 60th Anniversary of the Liberation of Guam in 1944 by the U. S. Armed Forces headed by United States Marines. The highlight of Guam's calendar of anniversary activities ever since has been the Liberation Day parade on Marine Drive in downtown Hagatna, the capital of Guam. Here in the nation's capital, the anniversary is traditionally observed with the Member of Congress from Guam placing a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknowns, accompanied by government officials, civilian and military. This year, I had the honor of hosting this memorable event which had an added dimension. It was attended by about 100 special guests--Marine veterans of World War 11 and members of their families. Also present were sons and daughters of Guam living in the region. As members of the 5th Field Service Depot, these veterans either participated in the liberation of Guam or served Guam during the reconstruction period following liberation. Their pride in their role in the recapture and reconstruction of Guam is a source of great inspiration to us. Their devotion to Guam, as manifested in their establishment of an academic scholarship for a Guamanian student, is one of their touching gestures--from the liberators to the liberated. On the eve of the dedication of the National World War II Memorial, it is my privilege to enter the names of those Marines and Navy Corpsmen, present here today with their families and friends, in the Congressional Record of this, the House of the people of the United States: Al and Jo Aniello; Sue Barke; Armin and Lois Barth; Bish Bischoff, John and Josie Boertlein; Sandy and Dolores Bompiedi; Art Boston; Lisa Botteri; Bill Buckner; Connie Burrell; Mrs. Frank Carroll; Joe and Terry Ciecierski; Maury Claus; Christna Clausen; Florence Cottone; Cal Dart; Ed and Dot Demm; Frank and Irene Derose; Ed and Mimi Disch; Chuck Doss; Darrell and Evelyn Doss. Lee Edwards; Fran Feiner; Lillian Feiner; Ken Freck; Arnie and Helen Gasparetti; Mrs. Evan Geroux; Robert and Marie Gray; Walt and Madeleine Grisevich; Barrett Hackney; Christopher Hackney; Nick and Jayne Hasenflu; Ben and Dee Heath; Don and Barb Hehir; Maury and Dorothy Henderson; Fen Holmes; Elsa House; Lewis and Annella Howlett. Bill and Willeen Hutchins; Les and Mary Jehnke; Mrs. John King; Betty Kostman; Mrs. Robert Larson; Joe and Ruth Laur; Ernie and Lynn Lee; Frank and Helen Lindsay; Rich and Eileen Little; Roy and Barb Manis; Bill and Roman Mathews; Matty and Barb Matthews; Bob Mcowan; Budd and Ginger Melanson; Ski Nalewanski; Keith Neuman; Harry Ozenbaugh; Mike and Elain Papas; Jake and Viv Plank; Dave Resenthal; Louise Sims; Rabbit and Delna Stefanow; Marge Storing; Doc and Bev Tibbitts; Jude Tonkin; Donna Trotter; Kyle Trotter; Mrs. William Wolfe; Wally and Joan Yandel. We on Guam know what freedom is because we also know what occupation is. We celebrate Liberation Day on Guam every year as the day of deliverance from enemy occupation and the return of freedom after 32 months of enemy subjugation. We know what it means to thank Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, Coast Guardsmen, and Airmen for their sacrifices because it was not all that long ago that we were an occupied land. On this Memorial Day, 2004, as we gather in the heart of democracy to honor the greatest generation we on Guam, fellow Americans, would like to add our humble gratitude to the veterans of the 5th Field Service Depot who have returned to help us recall the sacrifices of liberation and renew our love of freedom. God Bless America. God Bless Guam. God Bless the United States Marine Corps.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. This citation is presented to Gunnery Sergeant Vincent C. Santiago, a native of Merizo, Guam, for his promotion to the rank of First Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. Gunnery Sergeant Santiago is the son of Joseph and Mary Santiago of Merizo, Guam. He is married to the former Selma D. Reyes, daughter of Peter and Josephine Reyes, also from Merizo. Vincent and Selma have three children, Vincent Jr., PeterJoe, and Serresa. Sergeant Santiago entered the United States Marine Corps in September 1989, graduating from boot camp in San Diego, California, with a meritorious promotion to the rank of Private First Class. After completing his Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) training at the School of Infantry as a 0341 Mortar man, he was assigned to Marine Barracks Guam as a Marine Security Guard where he was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal in August 1990. Seven months later, in March 1991, he was meritoriously promoted to Corporal, eventually receiving orders to 3rd Battalion 5th Marines at Camp Pendleton, California. In 1993, Gunnery Sergeant Santiago moved to Maintenance Management, where he became the Battalion's Maintenance Management Chief and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. After completing Drill Instructor School at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California, he was assigned to Company ``A'', 1st Recruit Training Battalion. Among his many accomplishments, Gunnery Sergeant Santiago has received the Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal in lieu of third award and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal in lieu of fourth award. In addition, Gunnery Sergeant Santiago was also Marine of the Quarter in March 1991 while stationed at Marine Barracks, Guam, and selected as Drill Instructor of the Quarter for the 1st Recruit Training Battalion in March 1996. He is also certified in the Marine Corp Martial Arts Program as an Instructor Trainer, 1st Degree Black Belt. Gunnery Sergeant Santiago is the Drill Master at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He will receive his promotion to First Sergeant on June 1, 2004, upon completion of his current tour of duty. He will then report to the 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division at Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, for duty as Company First Sergeant where I am confident he will continue to serve with honor and distinction. Gunnery Sergeant Santiago's career reflects the courage and determination of the Chamorro people. We are very proud of our native son. On behalf of the people of Guam, I want to congratulate Gunnery Sergeant Santiago and his family on his accomplishments, and extend our gratitude for his service to our island and our country.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation to correct an anomaly in the treatment of the Federal blue-collar workforce in Guam by providing for parity in their wage schedules and rates. These are the wage schedules issued under the Federal Wage System, the uniform pay-setting system Congress established by law in 1972 for Federal ``prevailing rate employees'' who are paid based upon an hourly rate (P.L. 92-392). Administered by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the Federal Wage System is designed to ensure that pay rates for Federal trade, craft, and laboring employees are in line with prevailing levels of pay for comparable levels of work in the private sector within a local wage area. The system is also meant to eliminate inequities that would otherwise occur within the Federal Government and between the various agencies employing citizens in a local wage area. OPM has designated the Department of Defense (DoD) as the lead agency for establishing the pay rates and issuing all wage schedules. OPM has currently defined 131 appropriated fund and 125 non-appropriated fund local wage areas within the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Schedules and rates are developed for each wage area based upon a survey conducted by DoD. OPM regulation however provides that a separate schedule shall be issued for Guam with rates identical to those used for prevailing rate employees in foreign areas. Regulation also provides that the rates for foreign areas shall be an average of all wage area rates set by OPM for the United States. Under these circumstances, the prevailing rate employees in Guam are treated no differently in terms of their pay rates than if they were working in a foreign area (outside the United States). This is a matter of concern to me which I am seeking to address with the introduction of this legislation. Guam's unique economic conditions, given its geographical isolation and the fact that it is a high cost of living area, have placed the hard working prevailing rate employees in Guam at an unfair disadvantage when compared to those that are employed in an OPM-defined local wage area. Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico, unlike Guam, are each currently defined to be their own separate wage areas and benefit from wage schedules that take into account their economic situation and cost of living environment. Guam should be treated no differently and have a wage schedule that reflects the cost of living and the level of pay for government-wage-grade-equivalent jobs in the private sector. Therefore I have introduced this bill to provide equitable treatment for Guam, not by directing OPM to establish a separate wage area for Guam but by simply applying the same rates used for the State of Hawaii, which sustains a similar island economy with most comparable trades and blue-collar workforces. It is generally understood that the reason Guam has been issued a separate schedule each year by regulation and has not been defined as a separate wage area, is that the number of comparable positions in Guam's private industry may be insufficient under the current standards to warrant its own wage survey and designation as a separate wage area. In passing the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002, Congress required DoD, when establishing wage schedules and rates for prevailing rate employees, to consider rates paid for comparable positions in private industry in the nearest wage area that is most similar to the wage area for which wage rates are being established when there are insufficient positions in the local industry upon which to establish wage schedules and rates (Sec. 1113 of P.L. 107-107). The legislation I am introducing today is consistent with this intent. This bill would greatly enhance the economic viability of the prevailing rate employees in Guam, is in the public interest, and is, in my opinion, in conformance with the goal of the Federal Wage System. This is a sensible policy proposal that would ensure regional equity in wage rates. I look forward to working with OPM, DoD, the House Committee on Government Reform, and the House Committee on Armed Services, in addressing the concern over the current inequity and treatment of Guam under the Federal Wage System that this bill seeks to correct.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the beginning of relations between the United States of America and Japan. One hundred and fifty years ago, Commodore Perry opened the doors of a country and started a relationship that would eventually grow into an alliance between two of the largest economies in today's world. A country which had largely isolated itself from the rest of the world, Japan, in a very short span of a century and a half, now has a strong international presence as a strong ally of the United States and advocate for freedom and democracy in the world. Today, America and Japan enjoy strong trade relations, economies that support each other, and equally as important, social and cultural ties that bridge the Pacific Ocean and span differences in languages and custom. The alliance between Japan and America is strong and stable. We both fiercely defend freedom and democracy and we both promote human rights in the world. The friendship between America and Japan is magnified and continually strengthened by its peoples and their willingness to work with each other for the common goal of improving the quality of life for all citizens of the world. Both America and Japan freely extend helping hands to each other and to the most needy of the world. Both America and Japan use their combined economic might to cure disease, feed the hungry and explore the unknown in search of greater knowledge and resources. In these efforts certain citizens of both of our great nations shine and become role models for all of other citizens to emulate. Dr. Hiro Kurashina is such a man. Motivated by the desire to make a better future by learning from the past, Dr. Kurashina, a native of Japan, has devoted many years to the development of the Micronesian Area Research Center, the premier archive and repository of the history of the Pacific Islands and its people. Dr. Kurashina's work has helped to ensure that the story of the islands will always be preserved and promoted among its peoples and shared with the world. Through these efforts, Dr. Kurashina has created a strong bond between Japan and the islands of Micronesia and through his efforts, the University of Guam has become an active participant in the growth of knowledge about this region and its people. Dr. Kurashina has contributed greatly to making the University of Guam a valuable resource for Guam, Micronesia, and the world at large. I consider it an honor to take this opportunity to praise Dr. Kurashina for his work and to thank him for all that he has done for our islands and people and all that he has done to continue the strengthening of the bonds between Japan, America and the islands of the Pacific.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the senior citizens of Guam who are celebrating a special month dedicated in their honor. I stand to commend and show appreciation for all they have contributed to our island of Guam, its people, and our Nation as a whole. I rise to pay tribute to them for teaching and imparting to our people a sense of patriotism and unwavering loyalty to this great Nation and American Democracy. Guam's senior citizens lived through the horrific experience of World War II on the only American soil occupied by an enemy force. Through it all, the people of Guam never lost faith in America. Always defiant and proud, their solemn hymn was ``Uncle Sam, won't you please come back to Guam.'' After the war, these proud Americans taught their children a love of democracy and freedom that carried them through battlefields in the Korean War, the Vietnam conflict, the Persian Gulf and now, the global war on terrorism. With this deep love of freedom and country, Guam's seniors were always the pillars of our island community. Through them the beautiful Chamorro culture is passed on to younger generations. They keep our island traditions, our language, and our ways of life alive and vibrant. They have taught our children the love of nature, the love of God and the love of family and neighbor and in so doing, ensure that our heritage will survive. Mr. Speaker, I honor the seniors of Guam, proud citizens who have participated in the growth of Guam as a showcase of American democracy in the Pacific. May every American remember and give honor to the forefathers who shaped this wonderful country and who were the architects and builders of a nation founded in the love of freedom and the inalienable rights of humanity. During this month dedicated to seniors, let us all honor these great Americans and say ``thank you.''

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to join my colleague from Kansas (Mr. Ryun) in offering an amendment to improve military education exchanges between Taiwan and the United States. Given our commitment to ensure the peaceful settlement of differences between Taiwan and mainland China, it only makes sense that we remind the Chinese at every possible opportunity that war is not an option. By hosting Taiwanese military officers and by sending our own military leadership to Taiwan, we reinforce the bonds of friendship and defense. The opportunity for dialogue between military planners provided in this amendment will help the Taiwanese Government to have a good net assessment of the strategic situation in the Taiwan Straits. It is my fervent hope that these military exchanges will also provide a boost to civil-military relations between our two nations. Our model of civilian control of the military within a democratic society is one that Taiwan has truly adopted as its own. Other nations in the region could benefit from the stability of such a system. Given Guam's proximity to Taiwan, it is a logical place to host these military exchanges. Andersen Air Force Base and the Command Naval Headquarters Marianas have excellent conference and training facilities. The Department of Defense has identified knowledge of submarine operations as a key improvement area for the Taiwanese military. Given that forces from Guam, including our home-ported submarines, would be involved in any joint operations with Taiwan, it only makes sense that we work closely together. So I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, which is an expression of our friendship with the people of Taiwan.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Israel), but first thank the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Schrock) for his very kind words.

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank all of my colleagues who spoke in support of this resolution. Each of us will have a chance to spend some time with veterans from our districts on Memorial Day. We know we owe them more than words for their service, but the words spoken here today came from the heart. And I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the liberators of Guam and all of our cherished veterans and outstanding servicemen and women in uniform. I want to thank the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Shadegg), the author; the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Schrock); and I urge all of my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson-Lee). (Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I would like to go on record to thank the gentleman from North Carolina. I pass those posters every day on my way to my office. I think it is a wonderful tribute that he is paying to the men and women in service who have lost their lives. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Skelton), ranking member of the Committee on Armed Services.

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 424, introduced by the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Shadegg). This timely resolution honors the men and women who serve in uniform and calls on all Americans to recognize the sacrifices of those who have given their lives to protect our freedom by wearing a red poppy on Memorial Day, May 30. In 2 weeks, our Nation will observe Memorial Day. Sadly, the true meaning of Memorial Day seems to have faded over the years, and for many young Americans, Memorial Day is often seen as just another holiday or the beginning of summer. This is sad and unfortunate as Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor those who have died in service, defending our Nation. The resolution before us honors those who have given their lives in service to their country and encourages Americans to wear a red poppy on Memorial Day. A number of people have asked, ``Why wear a red poppy?'' The red poppy grew abundantly in the battlefields of World War I, and it was the inspiration for several poems at the time, including such notable poems as ``Flanders Fields,'' written by John McCrae in May, 1915, and a poem by Moina Michael, entitled ``We Shall Keep the Faith,'' written in November, 1918. The first Poppy Day was held in England on November 11, 1921, and since that time, the red poppy has been a symbol of sacrifice. For over 80 years, the red poppy has been worn to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and to raise money to help our disabled veterans. A poem attributed to Don Crawford entitled, ``Why Wear a Poppy'' captures the significance of this special flower, and I would like to read the poem for the Record. Why Wear a Poppy ``Please wear a poppy,'' the lady said And held one forth, but I shook my head. Then I stopped and watched as she offered them there, And her face was old and lined with care, But beneath the scars the years had made There remained a smile that refused to fade. A boy came whistling down the street, Bouncing along on care-free feet. His smile was full of joy and fun, ``Lady,'' said he ``May I have one?'' When she pinned it on he turned to say, ``Why do we wear a poppy, today?'' The lady smiled in her wistful way, And answered ``This is Remembrance Day, And the poppy there is the symbol for The gallant men and women who died in war, And because they did, you and I are free, That's why we wear a poppy, you see. I had a boy about your size, With golden hair and big blue eyes. He loved to play and jump and shout, Free as a bird he would race about. As the years went by he learned and grew And became a man--as you will too. He was fine and strong with a boyish smile, But he'd seemed with us such a little while When war broke out and he went away. I still remember his face that day. When he smiled at me and said `Good-bye, I'll soon be back, Mom, so please don't cry.' But the war went on and he had to stay, All I could do was wait and pray. His letters told of the awful fight, (I can see it still in my dreams at night.) With the tanks and guns and the cruel barbed wire, And the mines and bullets, the bombs and fire. Till at last, the war was won, And that's why we wear a poppy, son.'' The small boy turned as if to go, Then said, ``Thanks, lady, I'm glad to know. That sure did sound like an awful fight. But your son, did he come back all right?'' A tear rolled down each faded cheek, She shook her head, but didn't speak. I slunk away in a sort of shame, And if you were me you'd have done the same, For our thanks in giving, is oft delayed, Though our freedom was bought, and thousands paid, And so when we see a poppy worn, Let us reflect on the burden borne By those who gave their very all And asked to answer their country's call, That we at home in peace might live. Then wear a poppy. Remember--and give!'' Mr. Speaker, this Memorial Day each hometown across America will pause to remember the heroes of this generation as well as those of the past. Let us honor and pay tribute to the over 900 American service members who have given their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan, along with all those who die in service to their Nation. On Guam, we have lost three young men in Iraq: Specialist Christopher Wesley, Lieutenant Michael Vega, and Sergeant Eddie Chen. One officer, two enlisted men. Wesley, Vega and Chen, these three, are a microcosm of the American people, one Western name, one Hispanic name, and one Asian name. In these troubled times, it is worth reflecting on Memorial Day who we are as a Nation and what values we stand for. We are a Nation of immigrants whose parents and grandparents have come to these shores seeking individual liberty, prosperity and human dignity. The Nation we call our own is a Nation of compassion and justice. It is a Nation worth dying for. It is a Nation of opportunity and freedom. We on Guam know what freedom is all about because we also know what occupation is. We celebrate Liberation Day on Guam every year as the day of deliverance of enemy occupation and the return of freedom after 32 months of enemy subjugation. We know what it means to thank Marines, soldiers, airmen and sailors for their sacrifices because it was not all that long ago that we were an occupied land. Tomorrow, I will be accompanying former Congressman General Ben Blaz, the veterans of the 5th Field Service Depot of the United States Marine Corps to Arlington National Cemetery. We will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to express our deep appreciation to all those who serve and have served our Nation in uniform. We thank them, honor them, and will never forget them. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Spratt).

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 3722, a bill that presents more questions than answers about providing efficient and effective health care treatment to undocumented immigrants. I share the concern about lapses in our country's immigration program, and I support measures such as biometric visas and other advanced technologies to more accurately control who enters our country. However, I am very concerned about this particular legislation, as I fear that it will serve only to undermine the efficiency and effectiveness of our public health system with little benefit to our Border Protection Services. Mr. Speaker, we are talking about health here. The reason that I hesitate to support H.R. 3722 is twofold. First, funding was included in last year's Medicare reform act for the simple purpose of assisting State and local health authorities to cover the cost of providing health services to illegal immigrants. This provision demonstrates both our Nation's compassion by ensuring public health to all walks of life and also its commitment to providing our medical community with the necessary resources to do their jobs. Adding more regulatory and financial burdens, such as those outlined in H.R. 3722, will increase costs. Secondly, I am concerned that immigration paperwork will either prevent or delay critical health care services to immigrants in general. Documentation can be dealt with after immediate medical procedures are rendered. Because of these concerns, I urge my colleagues not to support H.R. 3722.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of House Resolution 608 introduced by the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Forbes). I would like to recognize the gentleman for his work and interest in ensuring that our military service members stationed overseas are afforded the right to vote. I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize the gentlwoman from New York (Mrs. Maloney) and the gentlewoman from Connecticut (Ms. DeLauro), who joined with me in cosponsoring House Resolution 608. The postal service is an integral part of the American existence and something that we often take for granted. To the men and women in uniform serving overseas, however, it is a vital connection to home, and they treasure the ability to send and receive packages and letters. This resolution, Mr. Speaker, draws attention to the continuing problem of ensuring that members of the Armed Forces stationed overseas have access to mail and that they will be able to send in their election ballots in a timely manner. It would be a real shame if our servicemen and women who are fighting to bring democracy to places like Afghanistan and Haiti were themselves denied the opportunity to cast their own vote in November due to a postal delay. The 2000 Presidential election brought to the Nation's attention the voting barriers that service members and other Americans stationed or living overseas face in the electoral process. Service members living and deployed abroad often find it difficult to exercise their right to vote. Problems with mail delivery, requirements for valid ballots, and just obtaining information is a serious challenge, particularly for those who may be deployed on a submarine for 6 months or are stationed in remote areas around the world. To ensure that voting rights of service members and Americans serving and living abroad were protected, Congress implemented a number of improvements to the voting process several years ago. The law was changed to improve the system and enhance the opportunity for overseas service members to participate in the electoral process. For example, clarification was provided on voting assistance programs; annual reviews of the effectiveness and compliance by the Department of Defense Inspector General are required; the importance of voting assistance officers was stressed; military personnel have been afforded guaranteed residency; voter registration and absentee ballot application procedures were simplified; and authority for service members to use a single application for all subsequent elections was provided. However, Mr. Speaker, this year's annual review by the Department of Defense Inspector General found that while improvements have been made, opportunities exist to improve the DOD voting assistance program. The IG found that the Services need to continue to provide command emphasis and improve oversight of the program, as problems still remain. The General Accounting Office, or more commonly referred to as GAO, also recently conducted a review of the mail delivery to troops serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and found that while some improvements have been made, many, many of the same difficulties the mail system faced during the first Gulf War, over a decade ago, still exist today. For example, GAO found that problems still exist in conducting joint service mail operations and that inadequate training and late deployments, as well as inadequate postal facilities, equipment, and transportation, have had an adverse impact on the delivery of mail. My constituents often have particular difficulty getting mail delivered as the regular service to Guam is lengthy and erratic. In the field there is often confusion as to whether Guam is included in domestic mail rates, which of course it is. I had one soldier e-mail me from Iraq, telling me he was made to pay for postage while everyone else was able to mail for free. These are the kinds of inconsistencies that the military postal service should examine and rectify. While challenges still remain for overseas and military voters, it is interesting to note that absentee service members consistently vote at a higher rate than those eligible in the United States. However, it is vitally important that we ensure that those who volunteer to serve our Nation in uniform are able to exercise one of their most basic rights, and that, Mr. Speaker, is the right to vote. As a member of the Total Force Subcommittee, I also want to reassure my colleagues that the subcommittee shares the concerns that are raised in this resolution, and we will address these issues in the defense authorization that will be marked up tomorrow. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I wish at this time to urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 608. I do want to take this opportunity to thank the distinguished gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Forbes) for sponsoring this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and to recognize the great contributions of Asian and Pacific Island Americans to our Nation. I, too, as the previous speaker said, am very proud to represent the territory of Guam in the Pacific, and I want to thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Honda), the chairman, for his sterling leadership. Ever since I have come to Congress, I have noted he is out there working hard for the Asian Pacific recipients and the representatives from the various areas, as has the gentleman from American Samoa (Mr. Faleomavaega), the vice chair of the Asian Pacific American Caucus. I thank them for their efforts on behalf of our communities. Asian and Pacific Islanders are contributing in every aspect of American life, from business to education, government, public relations, the military, sports, entertainment and the arts. In each of these professions, we find prominent Asian and Pacific Islander Americans making their mark. The late congresswoman, Mrs. Patsy Mink, was a champion of women's rights and a leader in social justice who worked tirelessly to provide opportunity to the poor and disenfranchised. Today her legacy lives on and inspires many to remain strong in their convictions. With her award-winning book, ``A Single Shard,'' children's author and Korean American, Linda Sue Park, has instilled important lessons of honesty, integrity, hard work, and perseverance in millions of children. My predecessors, the Congressmen Antonio Won Pat, Ben Blaz, and Robert Underwood, faithfully served the people of Guam; and they have served as an inspiration to a generation of Chamorros. Our communities have embraced America as our new homeland, and our unique cultures have survived and continued to thrive because America has come to know and appreciate how our contributions have enriched our Nation. Today, as we celebrate ``Freedom For All, a Nation We Call Our Own,'' and as our military operations to win the war against terrorism continue to hold national attention, we are reminded of the sacrifices made to ensure our freedom. No one can doubt the patriotism of Asians and Pacific Islanders who have served this country with pride and distinction, and many without the benefit of citizenship. Let us honor the 21 Asian American World War II veterans from the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team who were awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism and bravery on the battlefield. I especially want to remember those who have given their lives to protect our freedom, including Army Specialist Christopher Wesley, Lieutenant Michael Vega, and Sergeant Eddie Chen, soldiers from Guam who were killed in Iraq. We are saddened by their deaths, but their courage is an inspiration to all of us. This year the people of Guam will be commemorating the 60th anniversary of our liberation from enemy occupation by U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. As the only American territory with a civilian population occupied by the enemy during World War II, they risked their lives to protect American soldiers from capture and endured great hardship and suffering. I want to recognize the people of Guam for their steadfast loyalty during these trying times. As we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, let us remember and honor all of the contributions of Asian Pacific Islanders. Let us appreciate the cultural diversity, the patriotism, and the communities that make our Nation so great.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation that would protect the credit histories of consumers residing in areas where damages caused by a disaster impede the efficient payment of debts. My bill would provide an important safeguard for individuals living in disaster-prone regions in order to ensure that their financial histories are not adversely affected by an inability to make prompt payments during and in the immediate aftermath of a Federally Declared Disaster Area. I am concerned that public law does not provide a consistent legal means for consumers to rectify credit discrepancies occurring during a period in which their residence was included in a Federally Declared Disaster Area as defined by the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. While I understand that many financial institutions do institute voluntary programs to give such customers reasonable flexibility in making payments, I also understand that these policies are not required nor are they uniform. Additionally, even where voluntary policies are instituted on the part of financial institutions, inevitably some mistakes will be made. The process of reconciling a credit report is often very difficult and time consuming, and disaster victims already face enough burdens during the recovery process. The Federal Disaster Consumer Protection Act will assist victims of a disaster by allowing for a 7-day grace period beginning on the date on which the disaster area is declared. If the due date on a payment falls on 1 of those 7 days, an affected consumer would be able to request that any adverse credit report as a result of a late payment be removed from his or her credit history. To prevent abuse, the consumer would had to have made his or her account current within 30 days of the due date in order to exercise this protection. This legislation would also give the Secretary of the Treasury discretion to extend the grace period if he or she sees fit. My bill proposes minimal standards that should not be a burden on those responsible financial institutions that already have a fair policy for dealing with consumers adversely impacted by a disaster. While I do believe that financial institutions should implement fair policies with regard to bank fees and other penalties for late payment during a disaster, my bill does not impose any new regulations with regard to these issues. The sole purpose of this legislation is to protect the consumer's credit. Support for this legislation will help reduce the risk of inaccurate credit reporting impeding the financial recovery of already vulnerable consumers residing in a Federally Declared Disaster Area.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, this citation is presented to Soroptimist International of Guam and Soroptimist International of the Marianas on the occasion of the Soroptimist International of the Americas Founder Region Annual Conference from April 30 through May 2, 2004 on Guam. Soroptimist International is the world's largest classified volunteer service organization for women in business, management, and professions with over 3,000 clubs having approximately 100,000 members in 127 countries. Its ``Founder Region'', composed of national clubs hailing from the entire Pacific Rim, is so called because the first Soroptimist club was founded in Oakland, California in 1921. Its counterparts on Guam and the Marianas were founded in 1978 and 1986, respectively. The Soroptimist of the Founder Region has undertaken important steps to assist women in their professional careers and personal lives. Thus, the Founder Region Fellowship offers fellowships and grants to women enrolled in graduate schools within the bounds of Founder Region who are in the last year of their doctoral studies. Furthermore, Soroptimist International of the Marianas and Soroptimist International of Guam in 1997 adopted its long term identifying project ``Erica's House--A Family Visitation Center'', designed to be a support service for parents and children in need of visitation and exchange services. For the first time since 1975, when the annual meeting of the Founder Region was initiated, the conference is being hosted by Soroptimist International of Guam and Soroptimist International of the Marianas. The conference will hold the region's annual board, fellowship and business meetings, elect a new board and present the Fellowship, Women's Opportunity and Violet Richardson awards. Apart from having the privilege of welcoming the member clubs of the Founder Region, the conference is also important to Guam because one of the six women vying for a top three slot in the Women's Opportunity Awards, Tricia Alconaba, is a native and resident of Guam. On behalf of the people of Guam, I want to congratulate the Soroptimist International of Guam and Soroptimist International of the Marianas for the important work they have achieved since their establishment, and extend our gratitude for their dedicated service to our island and our country.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the late Sgt. Yihjyh ``Eddie'' L. Chen who was killed on April 4 while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Baghdad, Iraq. Sgt. Chen was born in Taiwan on July 7, 1972 to Chen-Pin Chen and Yu- Meei Chen. His parents immigrated to Saipan and later to Guam where Sgt. Chen was planning to return. He has three brothers, Chi-Chong Wang, Chi-Hong Wang, and Sgt. I-Chia ``Virgil'' Chen, and a sister, Mei-Chuang Wang. Sgt. Chen graduated from Marianas High School in 1990 and went on to serve as a police officer in the Northern Marianas Department of Public Safety until he joined the Army in January 2000. Sgt. Chen will be remembered by those close to him as a bright, hard- working friend who was always ready to offer his assistance to those in need. America will remember him for his courage and commitment to our country. He has made the ultimate sacrifice. He is our hero. On behalf of the people of Guam, I want to extend our deepest condolences to Mr. and Mrs. Chen and their family on the loss of their beloved son, brother, uncle, friend.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4062, which will temporarily resolve the funding shortage for the Small Business Administration's 7(a) Loan Guarantee Program and ease the resulting financial burden that has been placed on small businesses. H.R. 4062 is the product of bi-partisan collaboration, and I commend Chairman Manzullo and Ranking Member Velazquez for working together to create a sound public policy response to this crisis for small businesses. I also thank the House Leadership on both sides of the aisle for responding promptly and positively. The 7(a) Loan Guarantee Program is the Small Business Administration's flagship financing program, which accounts for 30 percent of all small business long-term loans in this country. On February 11th of this year, the Small Business Committee held a hearing on the Administration's proposed Fiscal Year 2005 Budget for the Small Business Administration. At that hearing, small business owners from a diverse array of geographical areas and engaged in a variety of different industries testified that the financial crisis at the SBA 7(a) Loan Guarantee Program caused them undue hardship. Most indicated that the failure to access 7(a) Loans on more reasonable terms would preclude their respective companies from gaining access to the capital necessary to ensure survival. In the case of one small business owner who testified about his company's proposed project, the mayor of the city in which the company's site would be built accompanied him to Washington. The mayor spelled out exactly what was at stake for his economically distressed community; the opportunity to revive the local economy and provide new jobs, or the prospect of further decay and desperation. H.R. 4062 lifts temporary caps on 7(a) loans that were instituted in order to respond to its financial crisis. It will again allow for 7(a) loans to be included in larger financial packages, and provide working capital for export activities of small businesses. This is a step in the right direction, and I hope that Congress will follow the model of H.R. 4062 in addressing the long-term health of a 7(a) program that is so important to small businesses, which are incubators of economic and job growth in our communities. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4062.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent to revise and extend my remarks about this budget because it needlessly underfunds the Violence Against Women's Act and cuts so many programs important to women.