Madeleine Bordallo

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, November 10th will mark the 228th Anniversary of the founding of the United States Marine Corps. To mark the occasion, I would like to submit for the Record a special tribute to the Marines who participated in the Liberation of Guam written by Retired Brigadier General and former Delegate from Guam, the Honorable Vicente Tomas (Ben) Blaz. Ben was a teenager during World War II when Japanese Imperial forces invaded and occupied Guam in December 1941. During the Liberation of Guam in July 1944, he was captured by a Marine Patrol of the 9th Marine Regiment and later released upon confirmation he was a native Chamorro. Years later, he would serve as Commanding Officer of the same Regiment. He holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Notre Dame where he was later honored with the Distinguished Alumnus Award. He also holds a Master's Degree from the George Washington University and a Doctor of Laws Degree from the University of Guam. In addition he is a distinguished graduate of the Naval War College. In 1992, he was recognized as an Outstanding Asian-American in Public Service. After a distinguished career in the Marine Corps, which included being awarded the Legion of Merit (twice awarded), the Bronze Star (with Combat V), Navy Commendation Medal (twice awarded), the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry (Gold Star) General Blaz retired and returned to Guam in 1980. In 1984, the People of Guam elected him to Congress where he served with distinction for four terms. During his time in office, Congressman Blaz began the difficult task of addressing the unfinished business of World War II, the issue of war reparations for the people of Guam. He brings a unique perspective to this issue as a survivor of the Occupation of Guam, as a Marine, and as a public servant. Today, Congressman Blaz is a statesman respected by the People of Guam and a strong moral voice for our times. His insight is reflected in the following essay which conveys his deep love for our island and his profound admiration for the liberators of Guam. Few people have achieved so much in one lifetime as General Blaz. I am honored to enter his essay into the Congressional Record so that all Americans may come to appreciate the men and women who wear the eagle, globe and anchor of the United States Marine Corps. The People of Guam honor all those who serve our nation in the armed forces, but in our hearts, first among equals, are the Marines, Guam's liberators, for whom our main street is named ``Marine Drive''. On this 228th Anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corp, I submit this tribute written by one of the Corps' finest, Brigadier General (Ret.) Vicente Tomas (Ben) Blaz. A Moving Moment of Silence on Marine Drive (By Ben Blaz) The news that the Marine Corps Drive Rededication Act is scheduled for introduction in the Guam Legislature on November 10 brought a smile to this manamko's face. It sharpened the focus in my mind on an episode that took place during the Liberation Day parade in 1958. As Commanding Officer of a company of Marines at the Barracks, I had the honor of leading them in the parade. For the special event, we decided to wear combat clothing and carry packs and weapons much like the liberators did. Participating in this annual observance and remembrance was a new experience for my men as it was for me in my role as their commander. It is not unusual for those in a parade staging area to be a little edgy before a march. But the march that day was not part of a football rally or a Little League parade. Symbolically, we were following in the footsteps of a long line of heroic Marines of World War II, many of whom fought and fell where we were gathering. It was a sobering thought that prevailed over a solemn occasion. The parade route was different. As always, it was festive. Spectators lined both sides of Marine Drive stretching from Adelupe to East Agana. Most of them had survived the war and had vivid recollection of the enemy occupation. Whatever animosity they harbored, however, it was subdued that day. The crowd cheered loudly for everyone and everything that moved before them. All the villages had a float and every military service was represented in the parade--including marching bands. As the parade was about to start, I braced myself against the possibility of emoting publicly. When we entered the parade route, the crowd roared. As we approached the reviewing stand full of military and political dignitaries, I gave the traditional command to salute, ``Eyes Right.'' At that instant, as though directed to do so on cue, the crowd ``returned'' our salute with deafening silence. For a few minutes, the only audible sound was from our boots pounding the pavement in unison. Just a few years earlier, similar boots pounded the original road all along the coast as Marines charged from their landing crafts, crossed the road under heavy gunfire, and fought their way inland against an entrenched enemy. For 1200 Marines, it was to be their last crossing. About 6000 of their comrades returned to the beach on stretchers. My effort to control my emotions failed. I was marching solely on disciplined automation. Although tears swelled, I was able to connect with the faces in the crowd, young and old. Without uttering a sound, I heard the message radiating from their faces--of appreciation, of admiration, and of affection--for the Marines passing in review, for whom Marine Drive was originally dedicated. I, a liberated son of Guam, had the privilege of marching at that parade with a company of United States Marines who were, in effect, my liberators. In the ensuing years, I have participated in Liberation Day parades as a general officer of Marines and as a Member of the U.S. Congress. But, I was never again to feel and embrace a moment such as I did that day in 1958. I tip my hat to Senator Bob Klitzkie, himself a Marine, and to his fellow Senators for sponsoring the bill to rededicate Marine Drive. It is a magnanimous expression of remembrance. Unlike the typical inanimate monoliths that serve as memorials and centerpieces at annual ceremonies, Marine (Corps) Drive is a living memorial, a touchstone, a reminder to future generations how dearly we paid for the freedom we enjoy. Happy Birthday, Marines!

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Captain Francis Edward Sablan, Jr., for nearly 25 years of service to his country in the United States Navy. Our Nation appreciates his courage and commitment to ensuring our security, and I want to express my personal gratitude to Captain Sablan as family and friends gather to honor his achievements on the occasion of his retirement. Born in Hagatna, Captain Sablan has proudly followed in the footsteps of his father in serving in the United States Navy. His father, Francis Edward Sablan of Yigo served as a Chief Warrant Officer in the U.S. Navy. Captain Sablan credits his father with encouraging him to pursue a career in the military. His mother, Maria San Nicolas Sablan, of Sinajana also provided many years of valuable support services to our Nation's men and women in uniform while working for the Department of the Navy, Naval Air Station Agana. Captain Sablan was commissioned as an Ensign on May 30, 1979, at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He, along with fellow classmates and graduates Benny Fergurgur, Pedro Leon Guerrero, Frank Leon Guerrero and Francis Cruz, proudly represented Guam together at the U.S. Naval Academy. Their hard work and dedication has exemplified the patriotism and leadership qualities of the citizens of Guam and helped pave the way for future generations of talented young Chamorros to study at Annapolis. Congratulations Captain Sablan on reaching this tremendous milestone. You have served your Nation and the people of Guam with dignity and courage. As you make the transition from active duty to civilian life, know that your contributions and legacy in the U.S. Navy will not be forgotten.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I join my colleagues in support of the fight against breast cancer. I am told that this year 211,300 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed. A few years ago, two of those cases were my nieces, Donna and Catherine. I will never forget their experiences in fighting the disease, the pain and side affects of treatment. I will never forget the feelings of fear and helplessness that their parents and the rest of our family felt because we could not take away their suffering. So today as we celebrate the progress made in the fight against breast cancer, I want to express my gratitude to those who work to raise awareness and who encourage self-testing and early screening. I also commend those involved in research, those who fight to fund that research, and the survivors of breast cancer and their families for the strength and support they provide to other victims. Without your efforts, Donna, Catherine, and many other breast cancer victims would not be here today. To my colleagues in Congress, I urge you to do your part in the fight against breast cancer: let us ensure that when the reauthorization of the Mammography Quality Standards Act and the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program comes before us, we provide the necessary funding so that one day there will be no need for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding me this time, and I rise in support of House Resolution 409. I too want to associate myself with the remarks of my colleagues. We should speak out against anti-Semitic and prejudice comments made by any leader of the world, or anyone for that matter. Just this past weekend, I met with the Jewish community of Guam and shared with them my wonderful impressions of my recent visit to Israel. Guam is located in the Asia-Pacific area, and I am very concerned, Madam Speaker, with intolerance or any kind of racism in our region of the world.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Madam Speaker, 56 years ago the United States assumed an international obligation to protect and promote the development of two island groups that straddle much of the vast Pacific Ocean: The Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. As strategic battle grounds in World War II, these islands were liberated from enemy occupation by U.S. forces. In the aftermath of that pivotal period in world history, they emerged from a League of Nations mandate administered by Japan to become a United Nations' Trust Territory with the United States as trustee. Over the next 40 years their socio-economic status improved and their developing economies would begin to take root. Then, in 1986, Congress passed, and President Reagan signed, a Compact of Free Association with them. The compact allowed for a new relationship to be cultivated, and it afforded the FSM and the RMI the ability to become sovereign nation states in their own right. In the years since, they have been welcome to the international table in their own name and their alliance with the United States today could not be stronger. While other nations who receive foreign aid consistently oppose us in the United Nations, the FSM and the RMI have been among our most steadfast of allies. Seventeen years after the original agreement, we are here today, Madam Speaker, to renew the compact. It is in the spirit of friendship that we renew an agreement that seeks to honor and build upon the benefits our respective countries have derived from the original compact. So I rise today to support H.J. Res. 63 for four principal reasons: first, because it advances U.S. defense interests by providing a 50- year lease extension for U.S. access to Kwajalein Atoll in the RMI, home of the Ronald Reagan Missile Testing Facility and grants the U.S. the right of strategic denial. Second, because it reaffirms the right of FSM and RMI citizens to migrate freely to the United States for work, education, and residence and improves the means by which the Federal Government addresses the impact of migration in affected U.S. jurisdictions, including Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the State of Hawaii. Third, because it continues for the next 20 years critical financial assistance to facilitate capacity-building and self-sufficiency in the FSM and the RMI while ensuring greater accountability oversight and effectiveness, as well as it be continuous Pell grant eligibility. Finally, and most importantly, because it fulfills our moral obligation to the people of Micronesia and the Marshalls. Guam is the closest American neighbor to the FSM and RMI, and we have seen the progress that they have made under the original compact. Guam has welcomed and embraced those FSM and RMI citizens who have availed themselves of their compact-provided right to migrate freely to the United States for the pursuit out of educational and other opportunities. This migration has come at a financial cost to the Government of Guam. As in many cases, migrating FSM and RMI citizens do not directly contribute to the local revenue base that sustains the education, the health, housing and other social services which they have sought. Guam has been impacted significantly more than any other jurisdictions by this federally negotiated and internationally implemented agreement. As impact costs have increased, Guam has sought greater and improved assistance from the Federal Government. And that is why I am pleased that H.J. Res. 63 includes provisions based upon legislation that I introduced, namely H.R. 2522, and H.R. 2716 to address compact impact needs. Madam Speaker, I want to go on record this afternoon to commend the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde), the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Leach), the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos), and my friend, the gentleman from American Samoa (Mr. Faleomavaega), for shepherding this legislation through this challenging process. I also want to express my gratitude to our chairman of the Committee on Resources, the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo), and the ranking member, the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Rahall), for their bipartisan leadership in addressing those matters important to myself and other members of the Committee on Resources. I also want to thank all of the staff in all the different offices who worked so hard so that we could realize this day today. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote for H.J. Res. 63, vote ``yes'' for our national defense, vote ``yes'' to fulfill our moral obligations to the people of the Pacific, vote ``yes'' to help develop their economies, and vote ``yes'' to advance our relationship in this new century. Guam is the closest American neighbor to the FSM and the RMI, and we have seen the progress that they have made under the original Compact. Guam has welcomed and embraced those FSM and RMI citizens who have availed themselves of their Compact-provided right to migrate freely to the United States for the pursuit of educational and other opportunities. This migration has come at a financial cost to the Government of Guam, as in many cases, migrating FSM and RMI citizens do not directly contribute to the local revenue base that sustains the educational, health, and other social services on Guam. Guam has been impacted more significantly than any other jurisdiction by this Federally-negotiated and internationally-implemented agreement. As impact costs have increased, Guam has sought greater and improved assistance from the Federal Government. Congress has responded with some assistance, termed Compact-impact aid, and appropriated such aid from time to time over the past seventeen years in varying amounts, but never at levels to cover the costs actually realized or with the consistency to adequately help shoulder the adverse financial consequences. This is why I strongly advocated for amending the Compact law (Public Law 99-239) during this reauthorization process to ensure the immigration policy goes hand-in-hand with an adequate reimbursement policy for Compact-impact costs. Among the first pieces of legislation I introduced as a new Member of Congress was H.R. 2522, a bill that would authorize the reduction, release, or waiving of amounts owed by the Government of Guam to the United States to offset past unreimbursed Compact-impact expenses, and H.R. 2716, a bill that proposes new methods and more reliable means to provide for adequate Compact-impact aid in the future. H.R. 2522 was heard in the Resources Committee in July, and the Governor of Guam, Felix Camacho, and the Speaker of the Guam Legislature, Ben Pangelinan, traveled to Washington, D.C. to testify about the Compact-impact costs in Guam. In enacting the original Compact law in 1986, Congress stated that these adverse consequences would be reimbursed by Compact-impact aid. The General Accounting Office and a previous report by Ernst and Young indicate that the unreimbursed costs accrued to date in Guam are approximately $187 million. I am pleased that H.R. 2522, in a modified form, has been agreed to by the Resources Committee and has been incorporated into H.J. Res. 63. Section 104(e)(1) of this legislation would provide for a process by which the President could use debt relief as a means to reconcile past unreimbursed impact expenses for Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. I believe that such authority could be exercised by the President in the public interest. One of the examples of debts owed by Guam which was brought to my attention is the amounts owed by the Guam Telephone Authority (GTA) for infrastructure improvements to Guam's telephone system in the 1970s and 1980s. GTA currently owes $105 million to the Rural Utilities Service. This debt has been an impediment to recent efforts by Guam to privatize the telephone authority, which now has the distinction of being the last government-owned telephone utility in the nation. The existing debt has caused potential buyers to avoid GTA due to its debt service ratio of 0.70 to 1, a ratio well below the 1 to 1 ratio preferred by investors. Furthermore, the annual debt service costs for GTA's loans make it difficult to attract buyers. The reforms passed by Congress in the 1996 Telecommunications Reform Act eroded GTA's ability to compete in the marketplace. Telephone deregulation opened up the industry to competition, and in Guam, GTA was constrained by local and federal laws from competing while losing its own advantages as a local monopoly. Debt relief for GTA to offset unreimbursed impact expenses would make it possible to privatize the utility and to end further Federal subsidies. The Federal investment in infrastructure has already paid off in debt service payments by Guam and in minimal Federal reconstruction costs for GTA after typhoons in the past two decades. Moreover, without the debt relief that Guam seeks, it may be more difficult to privatize the utility because the net return from the sale of GTA may not be substantial enough to make it an attractive option. Due to the economic recession in Guam, some opponents of privatization have already likened this effort to unloading GTA at fire sale prices and have argued that the Guam taxpayers have invested too much in this utility to let it go for too little, irrespective of the actual market value of this depreciated telephone utility. The authority for debt relief contained within H.J. Res. 63 may be prudently exercised by the President to set appropriate conditions for the relief in order to make the previous Federal investment and the Federal relief sought worthwhile. In this regard, the relief for GTA's debts could be made contingent on the Government of Guam's commitment to privatize the utility and use the proceeds from the sale of GTA for other capital improvement needs on Guam such as schools, water and power infrastructure, and health facilities. The debt relief contemplated by this provision is not intended to exacerbate the economic situation of Guam rather it is intended to promote good public policy and stimulate the economy. Guam has suffered from a series of typhoons dating back to 1997. Any amounts owed by the Government of Guam to the Federal Government for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance can be considered an offset for unreimbursed Compact-impact costs. In addition, the Government of Guam continues to request a reconciliation of FEMA assistance for Supertyphoon Paka, which struck Guam in December 1997, and for which the Government of Guam believes a significant amount of money is owed to cover debris collection, removal and disposal work in the aftermath of the storm. Examples of other debts that could be retired or reduced to offset unreimbursed impact expenses for Guam are the $9 million owed by the Guam Waterworks Authority to the Department of the Navy for water consumption and $3 million owed by the Guam Community College to the Department of Education for construction of a student housing facility. Beyond this reconciliation provision, I am also pleased that the Resources Committee agreed to provisions contained within H.R. 2716, and incorporated them into H.J. Res. 63, so that for the next twenty years we avoid the great disparity between impact costs and realized reimbursement. Providing for $30 million in annual mandatory Compact- impact aid for the affected jurisdictions is a significant improvement over the current mechanism for Compact-impact reimbursement. Although I continue to question the Federal obligation to the affected jurisdictions, I am pleased that H.J. Res. 63 includes authorizing language that would allow for additional Compact-impact aid, above and beyond the $30 million, in future years to address reimbursement needs. Further, to help Congress accurately assess actual Compact-impact costs, I am pleased the Resources Committee restored a reporting requirement. I am equally pleased the Resources Committee retained referral authority for medical facilities of the Department of Defense. Together, these provisions should set us on the right course for the next twenty years. My colleagues, Mr. Abercrombie, Mr. Case, Mr. Gallegly, Mr. Rehberg, Mr. Acevedo-Vila, Mr. Grijalva, and Mr. Pallone, along with Mr. Faleomavaega, were also there for Guam throughout this process and helped me to ensure the Guam Compact-impact reconciliation provision was included. I thank them as well for their support.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 400, honoring the 25th anniversary of Pope John Paul II's ascension to the papacy. I want to thank Mr. McCotter for introducing the resolution. As the successor of Peter, Pope John Paul II is the beloved leader of Catholics all over the world and as we celebrate his 25th anniversary, we pay tribute to a man whose leadership, courage and compassion is a model for everyone. Through the many challenges that has faced the Catholic Church and the world, Pope John Paul II has stood firm in his faith. He has been unafraid to use his influence to shape world events, speaking for peace and advocating for human rights. His willingness to reach out to the different faith traditions and his forgiveness of his would-be-assassin has earned him the respect of many and is an example for all leaders. Pope John Paul II has presided at 142 beatification ceremonies where he proclaimed 1,315 Blesseds, including Blessed Diego Luis de San Vitores of Guam, and 50 cannonization ceremonies resulting in 476 Saints of the Church. He has held 8 consistories in which he created 201 cardinals. During his Pontificate, 17,350,000 pilgrims have participated in the General Audiences. This does not include the special audiences, religious ceremonies and the millions of people he has met during his pastoral visits throughout the world. He has met with numerous government officials during 38 official visits and the 700 audiences and meetings held with Heads of State and the 231 audiences and meetings with Prime Ministers. The people of Guam were honored when Pope John Paul II chose to visit Guam in 1981 at the invitation of Archbishop Anthony Apuron. Many people camped overnight in streets and parking lots near the plaza where he was to say mass. For many, this would be their only opportunity to see him. Tens of thousands of people attended the service. It was an awesome sight to see everyone, children with their parents and grandparents, religious and government leaders, gathered to celebrate mass with the Holy Father. It was a day that will never be forgotten by the people of Guam. On behalf of the people of Guam, I fully support House Resolution 400, honoring the 25th anniversary of Pope John Paul II's ascension of the papacy.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I rise to voice my support to the Ramstad-Moore amendment, which would allow troops on rest and recreation leave to return from Iraq to their home of record. This amendment benefits every member of the military serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom from across the United States, its territories and possessions. I am pleased that this amendment will enable servicemen and women from Guam to return home, even if only for a few days. This amendment will make a great improvement in the morale of our troops because they will be re-united with friends and family who are hoping and praying for their safe return. On behalf of the children that will be reunited with a parent and the couples that will see each other for the first time in months, I strongly urge my colleagues to adopt this amendment.

Mrs. BORDALLO

Mrs. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, despite the most advanced technology and the best of intentions, our operations in Iraq, followed by widespread looting and sabotage, degraded that country's antiquated infrastructure and left the people fearful and helpless. The people of Guam know how hard it is to recover from liberation. Hagatna, the capital of Guam was destroyed during World War II and has yet to fully recover. From this experience I can tell you that reconstruction is the hardest of tasks and every bit of assistance helps. If we do not follow through on our commitment to reconstruct Iraq we will have won the battle but lost the war. So I rise today in support of the Iraq Supplemental with sympathy for the people of Iraq whose liberation has left their country in chaos. I believe a people suffering under a tyrant can be restored by democracy. I believe a Soviet style economy can be revived with a healthy dose of American capitalism. I believe that a nation that has been isolated from the international community can, in partnership with the United States, step up and regain its rightful place in the world. The Iraq supplemental before us today will work to further these aims. Iraq is a test of our beliefs, just as it is a test of the ideology of those arrayed against us. At the same time our service men and women are not the world's policemen. They have accomplished their combat mission and should be relieved by an international peace/keeping force and Iraqis. Our Army has traditionally steered clear of law enforcement duties, which are better left to those with the special training and suitable equipment. We did not seek that role for them in Somalia, Haiti or Kosovo, nor should we seek it now. It is an example of the best of the American people when we help another. Yet it is only human nature to express concern that similar attention is not being paid to needs here at home. Each of us in this Chamber can list the unmet needs of our constituents such as concurrent receipt for veterans or healthcare for our seniors. The debate on the Iraq supplemental should not be a proxy for our failure to address these issues. Rather, we should commit ourselves to fixing these issues in the coming days. The Fiscal Year 2004 appropriations bills are not yet passed and we have time to make amends. We should come together in the same bipartisan manner that we have gathered to consider this Iraq supplemental and work to meet the needs of our Nation.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a very dear friend, Mr. Gutierrez Aflague ``Larry'' Lorenzo, who passed away on September 24, 2003 at the age of 88 years. Larry was an institution at Government House, the official residence of the Governor of Guam, serving as Chief Executive Chef during the terms of Governors Bill Daniels, Manuel F.L. Guerrero, Carlos G. Camacho, Ricardo J. Bordallo, and Paul M. Calvo. While working for these Chief Executives he served their First Ladies, including myself, not only as our chef, but as a friend, and as a teacher and advisor in the culinary arts. His long tenure at Government House was as much a credit to his recognized skills and talent with food as it was to his warm personality and winsome demeanor. Larry made everybody feel at home in Government House. Larry's fine cuisine was sampled and eagerly savored by visiting dignitaries including several U.S. Presidents and Vice Presidents, Presidential Cabinet members, Members of Congress, and Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip of England and Pope John Paul II. As a true Chamorro, Larry understood the important role food plays in all social gatherings on Guam. Larry did not start his life as a cook. At the age of 25, he joined the U.S. Merchant Marines and was assigned to Wake Island. In early 1941, he was transferred to Honolulu. When America liberated Guam Larry returned to his island home to work for Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Recognizing his aptitude for the culinary arts, Admiral Nimitz introduced Larry to a German Chef who trained the young Guamanian to master the art and science of food preparation and presentation. In 1961, Larry was hired by Governor Bill Daniels and so began his twenty-five years of service to a succession of Governors, First Ladies and the people of Guam. In those years, he became well known for the quality of his cooking but he became most famous for his pastries. His attention to exquisite detail in his cakes often found people commenting that they thought the flowers on his cakes, especially the roses, looked real. As First Lady, I knew Larry for eight years. During those years, I learned so much about Chamorro cooking--Larry was an advisor and mentor in the preparation of my Leblon Finatinas. In all official functions, Larry was ever present, advising, supervising and making sure that everything was just right. Larry was appreciated by everyone who knew him. To those of us who learned and worked closely with him, he will always have a special place in our hearts. Adios Larry Si Yu'os Ma'ase para todos y un naane ham, para todos y un fanague ham. Adios, my friend.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2297, a bill that will significantly improve the quality of benefits offered to Guam's veterans. In addition to offering enhanced education, disability and home loan benefits to veterans and their families. H.R. recognizes the efforts of veterans of the Philippine Commonwealth Army or new Philippine Scouts by ensuring their right to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery. I am pleased that H.R. 2297 will honor these brave soldiers whose contributions helped secure victory in the Pacific. Mr. Speaker, it is important that we demonstrate to our men and women in uniform our nation's continued commitment to members of the armed services, past, present and future. I am committed to improve the conditions of veterans in Guam. They need access to affordable housing and vocational training. Disabled veterans need assistance that recognizes the struggle of daily life they must endure for having served their country. I commend Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Evans for their leadership on this important legislation that will reiterate our nation's commitment to veterans. I look forward to reporting to the people of Guam that this legislation has become law and that we have taken another step in honoring our commitment to veterans. Mr. REYES, Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2297, the Veterans Benefits Act of 2003. This bill will provide an overdue expansion of several benefits already available to many veterans. Mr. Speaker I have long been an advocate for expansion of benefits to those veterans who suffered as a result of environmental exposures during military service. Because we now have the acknowledgment from the Department of Defense that Agent Orange and other similar herbicides were used near the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in the late 1960's, this bill will allow the children of veterans who were exposed to herbicides in Korea to receive the same benefits from the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) as those provided for children whose parents were exposed in Vietnam. As you know, the members of the 507th Maintenance Company that were recently interned as prisoners of war in Iraq hailed from the district that I represent. This situation impacted our entire community. I am proud to say that as a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, I pushed for the removal of the 30-day internment requirement for former prisoners of war (POWs) with certain presumptive service- connection disabilities. These disabilities suffered by these POWs may have occurred within minutes or hours of their internment. I am glad that this issue will be addressed and included in this legislation. Mr. Speaker, this is merely a small recognition of former POWs who deserve more that what we are providing for them. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Chairman and sponsor of this bill, Mr. Chris Smith, as well as Ranking Member Lane Evans for working with me and for the rapid consideration of this important legislation. I strongly urge my colleagues to join me in support of passage of this bill.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, as a Member of the House Committee on Armed Services, I have worked to further my understanding of the threats posed to our national security by state sponsors of terrorism and the role of our allies in countering this growing threat; and I am well aware that Guam's neighbor, North Korea, exports missile technology to Iran and other nations that seek to acquire both weapons of mass destruction and the means to deliver them. The people of Guam have a keen interest, Mr. Speaker, in developments in the Middle East where so many of our sons and daughters are proudly serving. Mr. Speaker, you may be interested to know that Guam is actually the closest American soil to the Middle East region. I, too, Mr. Speaker had the opportunity to visit Israel with my colleagues, and I thank the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Hill) for this opportunity to speak tonight. I was very pleased to join my colleagues on this recent mission to Israel. The State of Israel has come a long way since my last visit there over 20 years ago. The people have maintained the ancient heritage of the Holy Land and its sacred sites, while bringing economic development and opportunity to a very young nation. They have worked at bringing peace with their neighbors, Egypt and Jordan, and stand ready to negotiate a final settlement with the Palestinians. What I saw in Israel confirmed my belief that our assistance to Israel has been an important investment in regional security, for much has been achieved with our assistance from the leadership of President Carter to President Bush's efforts today. In prosecuting the war on terrorism globally, we should never forget our steadfast ally Israel and the responsibility we have to engage there. In Israel, I saw a people who share our democratic values in and long for peace being forced to live with the ongoing threat of terrorism. All too often, we focus our attention on CNN footage of a burning bus or a shattered restaurant. We must not forget these people after the cameras have moved on. For the women and the children that took the number 2 bus in Jerusalem, we must not delay in moving our embassy to Israel's capital. For the families who sat down to lunch at the Maxim Cafe, we must demand accountability from nations such as Syria that sponsor terrorism against Israel. To prevent future victims of terrorism, we must support increased defense cooperation with Israel; and, above all, we should encourage President Bush to continue the U.S.-led effort to facilitate the negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians that are crucial to our peace in the Middle East. The decisions of the 108th Congress will have a historic impact on our foreign policy and the security of our nation, and I look forward to sharing in those decisions with the understanding that I have gained from visiting Israel. So, Mr. Speaker, I would like to go on record to thank my colleagues who participated with me on this delegation and especially to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer) who led our group and for providing me with such a valuable opportunity.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of my dear friend, Roman Quichocho Benavente who passed away on September 30, 2003. Roman was born on February 22, 1922. He was married to the late, Margarita Mendiola Mesa Benavente and father to Frances B. Leon Guerrero, Nora B. ``Lola'' Beck, Barbara B. ``Bobbie'' Vaira, Randolph Mesa ``Randy'' Benavente, Raymond Mesa Benavente, and Bernice B. Batson and the late Danny San Nicholas. He was also grandfather, great- grandfather, brother, uncle, godfather, and friend. Roman was a shining example of the strength and courage of the Chamorro people. We are proud and grateful of his 50 years of service to his country and his people. He was a 30-year veteran of the United States Navy from which he retired as a Chief Petty Officer in 1970. He went on to serve with the United States Capitol Police, retiring after 20 years in 1991. Although Roman and his family remained in the states after his retirement, his love for the island of Guam and his Chamorro heritage was constant. Together he and Margarita raised their children with a deep appreciation of their Chamorro heritage and a love of their island home. As a founding member of the Guam Territorial Society, now known as the Guam Society of America, Inc., he was an active member, planning and participating in all activities. More importantly, Roman has helped bring those of us residing in the area together to continue our local traditions and to help pass these traditions on to our children. Roman was known for his kindness, generosity and his sense of humor. He was known for his love for God, his family and friends, his island and his country. He was known for his love of cooking, singing and dancing. Yet for the many things for which Roman will be remembered, I will especially remember Roman for his steadfast loyalty, support and friendship to me and my family throughout the years. Roman would open his home to us whenever we visited Washington, D.C. and I could count on his presence and participation at all my events. In fact, on the day I was sworn in as Guam's Delegate, he was the first person to arrive for the ceremony. He came early to offer his assistance. This was typical of Roman. Whenever anything needed to be done, he was the first to arrive and the last to leave, doing what needed to be done and having a great time doing it. We have much to learn from Roman and the way he lived his life. He taught us to love, to laugh and to celebrate and to be there for each other. Though we mourn his death, we honor his life in living by his example. On behalf of the people of Guam, I extend our deepest sympathies and prayers to the family and friends of Roman Quichocho Benavente.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3034 which reauthorizes the National Bone Marrow Donor Registry. I commend Chairman Young for his leadership in this critical program. Through his efforts in establishing the National Bone Marrow Donor Registry he has given countless people another chance at life. Through the recruitment of the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), which manages the Registry, patients there are over 5 million potential donors. Through NMDP outreach efforts in 19 countries, patients have access to an additional 2.5 million potential donors. In fact, approximately 40 percent of transplants facilitated by NMDP involves a U.S. patient receiving stem cells from an international donor or an international donor receiving stems cells from a U.S. donor. The importance of the Registry cannot be overstated and I commend and fully support the efforts of the National Marrow Donor Program for their recruitment efforts, especially for their efforts to recruit potential donors from diverse racial or ethnic groups. The critical need for donors of African-American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic, American Indian/Alaska Native descent was made clear to me by the story of a five-year-old little girl from Guam whose life was cut short by leukemia. Her name was Justice Taitague. Her best chance for life was a marrow transplant from a member of her ethnic group. The donor list at the time could not provide a match, but everyone involved in her care would not give up. Through the efforts of Dr. Thomas Shieh, the Guam Medical Society, and the National and Hawaiian Marrow Donor Programs, the first ever marrow drive on Guam was held on her behalf. This ``Drive for Justice'' registered thirty-four hundred volunteers in just three days. Tragically, she passed away less than a week after the drive. But her life has given hope to others of Asian/Pacific Island descent needing a stem-cell transplant and helped us to understand the importance of the National Marrow Donor Program. Mr. Speaker, I fully support H.R. 3034 to reauthorize the National Marrow Donor Registry. There is still a critical need for donors from the Asian, Pacific Islander and other minority communities to give the gift of life. Join the Registry.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his interest and concern.

Ms. BORDALLO. I yield to the gentleman from California. Parliamentary Inquiry

Ms. BORDALLO. Madam Speaker, I have on my desk a small card which has the words of my predecessor Congressman Ben Blaz. It says ``I am a Member of Congress, but not one of its Members.'' I read those words today, Madam Speaker, because I had them reinforced to me when I tried to sign the discharge petition here in Congress to give the veterans concurrent receipt that they deserve. We have veterans on Guam, 15,000 of them, in fact, but I was told as a Delegate, I cannot put my name on that discharge petition. More soldiers from Guam have died, per capita, in foreign wars than any other State in the Nation. But Madam Speaker, I cannot put my name on that discharge petition. Pacific Islander veterans suffer disproportionately from posttraumatic stress disorder, but I cannot put my name on that discharge petition. I am a cosponsor of H.R. 303, but I cannot put my name on that discharge petition. What can I do? I have decided to come to the floor today to appeal to my colleagues. I urge them to sign the discharge petition, Republican or Democrat; it does not matter. Do it for the veterans in their district. Do it for the veterans of Guam. Do it for their colleague who has been denied that right. I appeal to my colleagues on behalf of the disabled veterans of America. I see them at town hall meetings in my district all the time, and it breaks my heart. Veterans like Mr. Victor Pangelinan Tabios, who is 100 percent disabled. Madam Speaker, the people of Guam are shy people. It takes a lot of courage for them to stand up in public and to speak out their mind. So when Victor spoke to me about concurrent receipt, I listened. He served our country with duty and honor and pride, and now it is time for us to step up and do the same. If just one of my colleagues will sign that discharge petition today, they will have the deepest thanks from the people of Guam and a very grateful Delegate who cannot sign the petition.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the ranking member, the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Velazquez), for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor America's small business community during national Small Business Week and recognize those small businesses on Guam that are the backbone of our island economy. I would also like to take this time to thank Mr. Kenneth Lujan, the director of Small Business Administration District Office in Hagatna, Guam, for his continued hard work to provide important services to assist small businesses on Guam to grow and thrive. I want to wish Mr. Lujan and the entire SBA office on Guam a happy 50th birthday. Mr. Speaker, 90 percent of businesses on Guam are small operations. I guess you could call Guam the SBA community of the United States. I am grateful for the continued hard work and the innovation of our island's entrepreneurs, which help grow and enhance the economy on Guam, as well as provide jobs. In particular, I want to congratulate Mr. John Shen for being selected as the Small Businessman of the Year on Guam. Mr. Shen is the owner of Shen's Corporation, which operates Prestige Automobiles on Guam. Mr. Shen was born in Taiwan, but immigrated to Guam in 1979. Mr. Shen and his wife started several small business operations before the opportunity presented itself for Mr. Shen to acquire the local BMW dealership on Guam in 1991. He worked diligently to pull the company out of financial distress and has turned Prestige Automobiles into a strong and profitable small enterprise. In a time when Guam is experiencing the effects of 20 percent unemployment, Mr. Shen serves as an example of how hard work, innovation, and commitment to small enterprise can overcome serious obstacles. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the SBA, let us not forget our responsibilities as legislators to create an environment where people like Mr. Shen can, with hard work, realize his dreams. Let us reaffirm our commitment in assisting our Nation's entrepreneurs so that they may too live the great American Dream.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the second anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks of 2001 to express my sympathies for the victims of this terrible tragedy and their families. Furthermore, I would like to take this time to honor our men and women in the armed services who risk their lives on a daily basis in Afghanistan, Iraq, and throughout the world to ensure security and freedom both at home and abroad. The people of Guam continue to mourn the senseless loss of innocent lives that occurred 2 years ago. Although, Mr. Speaker, Guam is situated many miles west of New York City and Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania, Guamanians find themselves engrossed in the sense of shock and sadness that all Americans felt. The people of Guam reflected on the magnitude of what had transpired and searched for a means by which they could express their solidarity with the people of New York and Washington and Pennsylvania. One such individual, Mr. Speaker, by the name of Sergeant Christopher Quitugua of Yona, Guam, contacted my office and asked me to display a Guam flag that he has carried with him while on active duty in Egypt, Kosovo, Kuwait, and now Afghanistan. He wanted this flag to honor the men and women who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and the commitment of the people of Guam to protect and defend our Nation. Accompanying the flag is a certificate which reads as follows: ``This Guam flag is dedicated to the people of Guam. It was flown on a combat mission in an AH-64A Apache attack helicopter from Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. This flag was flown in honor of the men and women who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.'' In addition, this certificate was signed by the pilot, Steve Odom, and the co-pilot, John J. Blank, Jr. On this day that we remember the terrible tragedies of September 11, 2001, let us not forget the families that have lost their loved ones and reconfirm our commitment as a Nation to comfort and help all those who have suffered. Also, let us remember our men and women in uniform, such as Sergeant Quitugua, who bravely defended our Nation and continued to fight, to ensure that what occurred 2 years ago never, ever happens again. God bless our people and God bless our Nation, the United States of America.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, when Congress authorized the Native American home loan bill in 1993, it recognized the poverty and the homelessness of veterans from the Pacific Islands. It recognized that those veterans needed special assistance to access the necessary financing to put a roof over their heads. Ten years later, the funding has expired, but the challenge remains the same. Mr. Speaker, I understand that when the Department of Veterans Affairs shut down the lending program, they were on the verge of approving a loan to a Guam applicant. So I am pleased to join with my colleagues, Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Evans, in providing the funding authorization necessary to continue the program. A noteworthy aspect of the Native American home loan bill is that it withholds a loan fee from applicants with a service-connected disability. Each time I meet with veterans in Guam and hear their descriptions of living with the effects of Agent Orange or a post- traumatic stress disorder, I am reminded that we have yet to repay the service that these men and women have given to our Nation. We need to provide adequate veterans benefits and services not just near where a military base or a VA processing center is but where the veterans are, places like the tribal lands of Colorado and the Chamorro land trust properties of Guam. I hope that our action here today will bring attention to the good work of the program and increase the knowledge of the program amongst Native American communities.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Barbara Crittenden Schott of Detroit, Michigan, who passed away in her home in Riverside, California on June 13, 2003 at the age of 90. Her unselfish efforts to better the lives of those around her will be remembered through her dedication and commitment to numerous volunteer organizations. Barbara was the wife of the late General Wes Schott and mother of the late Christopher D. Schott. She is survived by her son, Kenneth and daughter-in-law, Marian Castro Schott of San Diego, California. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Derreth Schott Painter of Herndon, Virginia, Gwendolyn D. Schott of Hickory, North Carolina, and Charles Wesley Schott III of Escondido, California and four great- grandchildren. Barbara Schott will be remembered for her volunteer work which began in 1940 with the American Red Cross. She was a tireless volunteer in both the military and private sectors, especially medical services organizations. Barbara served on the board of directors for both the Fort Worth and Roswell Good Neighbor Council. She also established the Arlington Ladies, a military wives club, and the Air Force-wide Dependents Assistance Program, now referred to as Family Services. But the people of Guam will especially remember Barbara for actively promoting broader military interaction with the civilian communities on Guam. Barbara will also be remembered for her efforts to advance the Fine Arts. Her cultural contributions include the Guam Arts Society, the Children's Theater Guild, the Achievement Rewards for College Scientists, the Costume Club of Los Angeles, and the Auxiliary of the Neighborhood Youth Council. Barbara was also an active member in the Los Angeles and Santa Monica Pi Beta Phi Club. On behalf of the people of Guam, I extend our condolences to the family of Barbara Crittenden Schott. Her selfless love of humanity will serve as an example for us to model our lives after.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Raymond Anthony Agricola who celebrated his 80th birthday on July 12th. Mr. Agricola was stationed in Guam during World War II as a U.S. Naval Aviator. After Mr. Agricola left the Navy, he returned to Guam to work for Pan American World Airways. While working for Pan Am, Mr. Agricola continued to establish memorable relationships with our local people. Guam continues to hold special memories for Mr. Agricola. Even after he returned to the mainland, he continued to remain close to the friends he had made on Guam and became a member of the Guam Society of America. On behalf of the people of Guam, I want to say, Si Yu'os Ma'ase to Raymond Agricola for his service to our island and wish him a very special Happy 80th Birthday.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the late Dr. Donald M. Topping of Huntington, West Virginia, who passed away at the age of 73 on June 29, 2003. He will be remembered for his contributions in preserving the Chamorro culture, especially his work with the Chamorro language of Guam and the Northern Marianas. Dr. Topping leaves behind his wife, Priscilla Topping, and his children Miles and Lee Minh Topping, Jason Kesolei, Dee Johnson and Leslie Jensen. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Dr. Topping was Professor Emeritus of Linguistics at the University of Hawaii. He was also a founding member of the department. Dr. Topping was also responsible for co-founding the Drug Policy Forum of Hawaii in 1993. He served as its president until 2003 and received the Ho'omaluhia, or Peacemaker award, for advocating drug policy reforms on Hawaii. Dr. Topping was also the director of the Pacific and Asian Linguistics Institute from 1969-1974 and director of the Social Science Research Institute from 1974-1996. Dr. Donald Topping was considered a modern pioneer of the Chamorro language and was the main voice for modernizing the Chamorro language through his work on the reference grammar and the orthography. As an English professor at the former Territorial College of Guam, Dr. Topping taught himself the Chamorro language with the help of friends and neighbors in an effort to help his students learn English. He went on to author the books, Spoken Chamorro, in 1969; Chamorro Reference Grammar, in 1973; and the Chamorro-English Dictionary, with Pedro Ogo and Bernadita Dungca, in 1975, which put the Chamorro language into written form. Dr. Topping's work demonstrated that the Chamorro language had very unique features that could be best understood as an Austronesian Language rather than the popular misconception of Spanish origins. His work with the Bilingual Education Project was unprecedented in the efforts to protect the precious culture of the Chamorro people through their language. His genius and contributions to the Chamorro language as well as all the languages of Micronesia cannot be overstated. On behalf of the people of Guam, I would like to extend our condolences to the family of the late Dr. Donald Topping. The people of Guam will always be grateful for his work with the Chamorro language. It is through the work of a man like Dr. Topping that a greater understanding and appreciation of the cultures of the world can be gained.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Nino Joachim Tolentino for winning the 31St Annual Scripps Howard Regional Spelling Bee on Guam and his advancement to the 76th Annual Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee in Washington, DC where he proudly represented our island. Nino's spelling bee victory on Guam allowed him to compete nationally. At the national spelling bee, Nino successfully advanced to the third round. Although he was not ultimately victorious, Nino will walk away with an incredible experience, and a knowledge of the definition of ``farouche'', the word he spelled to propel him into the second round. Nino is an eighth-grader at Santa Barbara School in Dededo, Guam. Nino has aspired to compete in the National Spelling Bee since placing third in his fifth grade regional competition. By studying the origin of words, their definitions and its pronunciation, Nino devised his own method for spelling new words. Additionally, the support of Santa Barbara School, particularly his vice principal and coach, Sister Maria Rosario Gaite, helped Nino prepare for competition. Nino's success illustrates the importance of dedication and commitment in pursuing goals. On behalf of the people of Guam, I want to commend and congratulate Nino Tolentino for his accomplishments. Guam celebrates with Nino's mother, Joy Tolentino, and the faculty, staff and students of Santa Barbara School, in acknowledging his achievements. I look forward to Nino's continued success in the future.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to support the en bloc amendment, which includes a provision to bring equity between the State Department employees from Guam and other insular areas with those from the mainland United States. Current law allows the reimbursement of travel expenses for employees and their dependents in a foreign posting to return home. However, because of a flawed definition, the State Department is prohibited from providing this benefit if the home location is a U.S. territory. My amendment would correct this problem. My amendment would include Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and the Northern Mariana Islands within the geographic definition of the United States for the purposes of educational travel from a foreign area posting. I hope that in conference this might be perfected to include all of the State Department allowances in Title V. Congress would then eliminate the need to revisit this issue for every allowance. Let me close by giving an example of the problem that the current language imposes. A constituent of mine who is proudly serving our Nation as a State Department employee in Beijing wanted to send his son home to the University of Guam. His request was denied only to be told that Guam and the University of Guam is not in the United States. Today, the House will right this wrong; and I would like to thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos), the ranking member, and the State Department for supporting this change.