Gus Bilirakis

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael D. Thomas, who was killed on April 27, 2007 in Hirat Province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Michael was a sniper, a weapons sergeant and a combat medic assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and was killed when his unit came under rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire. I did not have the privilege of knowing Staff Sergeant Thomas personally but by all accounts he was a dedicated family man who was devoted to serving his country. He grew up in Seffner, Florida and joined the military police in 1991, serving in Somalia and in Korea. After already having served in the military police for 13 years and with only 3\1/2\ years until he could retire, he volunteered to be a Green Beret. At 34, Michael was one of the oldest in his unit which earned him the nickname ``Gramps.'' Michael was a highly decorated soldier. His awards and commendations include the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Defense Medal, the Parachutist Badge and the Special Forces Tab. Michael was an avid Tampa Bay Buccaneer fan who visited the team's training camp whenever he could. I've been told that he decorated his Fort Bragg room with Buccaneer memorabilia, including signed footballs and helmets. He was also an accomplished guitarist who liked watching movies and going for long walks with his wife, Teresa. Madam Speaker, my heart aches for Michael's family. He leaves behind his wife, Teresa, his children, Diana and Craig, his sisters, Krista and Cassie, and his parents, Debbie and Robert Kirpatrick. May God bless the Thomas family and continue to watch over the country that Staff Sgt. Thomas so loved. We shall never forget him.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to encourage my colleagues to cosponsor H.R. 1912, the Medicare Hearing Enhancement and Auditory Rehabilitation, HEAR, Act. H.R. 1912 will provide for Medicare coverage of hearing aids and auditory rehabilitation services. Medicare is currently specifically prohibited from paying for hearing aids. The HEAR Act repeals this prohibition and directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to determine the most appropriate manner for Medicare to provide this benefit. Hearing problems can make it difficult to understand and follow a doctor's advice, respond to warnings and hear doorbells and alarms. Hearing problems can also make it hard to enjoy talking with friends and family. All of this can be frustrating, embarrassing and even dangerous. It makes good sense to help these people better afford devices, treatments and other services that will improve their quality of life and increase their safety. I urge my colleagues to cosponsor H.R. 1912.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, unfortunately, I was unavoidably detained and missed rollcall votes Nos. 253 and 254. I take my voting responsibility seriously, and if I had been present, I would have voted ``yes'' on rollcall No. 253 and ``yes'' on rollcall No. 254.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Like all of us, I came to this body seeking to make a difference for my constituents and all Americans alike. We have chosen a life in public service and promised to fight for what we believe in. That is what we are doing. We promised to fight to give future generations the opportunity we have. We promised to fight to continue the prosperity of this great Nation. Unfortunately, as I reflect back on the first quarter of the 110th Congress, I do believe that the Democrat leadership has broken their promise to the American people. Supporting our courageous men and women in the military and addressing the gulf States homeowners' insurance crisis are two of the most important issues my constituents raised to me. Despite many Members' requests to address these vital matters in a timely, bipartisan manner, our pleas have fallen on deaf ears. It is with great disappointment that I go back to my district with the expectations of the American people so far unfulfilled. Regardless of the individual opinions regarding the war in Iraq, every American supports our brave men and women who serve this country with great honor and distinction. Just as we are forever indebted to yesterday's servicemembers who wore this country's uniform, we will never be able to fully repay today's gallant heroes. I am so very proud to serve on the veterans committee. We task the members of our Armed Forces with extraordinary responsibilities. The very least we can do is provide them with the necessary tools and resources to accomplish their mission. Nearly a month has gone by since the House approved its version of the Iraq emergency supplemental appropriations bill, a bill so bad that USA Today editorialized against it and said: ``It is hard to say which is worse, leaders offering peanuts for a vote of this magnitude, or Members allowing their votes to be bought for peanuts.'' It is bad enough that the bill contained pork projects intended to secure Members' votes. It is equally as troubling that we have been delayed in going to conference with the Senate to work out a bipartisan compromise worthy of our men and women in uniform. The American Legion and the VFW have urged this Congress to pass a clean supplemental funding bill, which will get our troops the resources they need as quickly as possible. I am so proud of the American Legion and VFW for stepping up. They continue to be our heroes. Every day we fail to act is another day we dishonor our troops' sacrifices and valor. The other vital issue to many Americans, particularly in my district and in the State of Florida, the Gulf Coast States, is the skyrocketing cost of homeowners' insurance. Many of our States are plagued by natural disasters that cost millions, if not billions, of dollars in damage. It is a terrible situation. As a result, homeowners' insurance rates have simply become unaffordable in many areas of our country. In my State, in far too many instances these rates have tripled forcing many to leave the areas they call home. For others in the gulf coast region, this has become the most financially crippling problem we have faced in years. My constituents have entrusted me to bring this issue into the national debate and come up with a solution. Yet as we approach the beginning of another hurricane season, this body has failed to act. Earlier this month, it was predicted we would have a very active hurricane season. Many of us who represent coastal States have tried to bring this issue to the forefront, both Democrats and Republicans, but our attempts seem to have been in vain so far. As the result of an apathetic Democratic leadership, my constituents have been abandoned by the very people they have entrusted to protect them, and what a shame that is. Along with the numerous bills introduced in the House which would help alleviate this crisis, I introduced H.R. 913, the Hurricane and Tornado Mitigation Investment Act. My bill would provide tax incentives for individuals to better protect their property against these deadly storms. As a result of strengthening their homes and businesses to better withstand these disasters, homeowners' insurance would drop and many constituents would continue raising their families in the place they call home. I can't tell you how many times I have talked to my constituents, people who have lived in Florida for over 20-25 years and wanted to raise their kids in Florida or retire in the State of Florida, and they are forced to leave the State. And I know there are other States in that position as well. I implore this Congress to consider my and other insurance-related bills to help these Americans in their time of need. When the Democrat leadership took the House gavel and control of Congress in January, they accepted it in partnership not partisanship. It is my sincere hope that we soon will debate serious topics that address the needs of this country in a bipartisan manner rather than political posturing. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to continue the prosperity of this great Nation. May God bless our troops. We owe them so much, and may He continue to watch over the United States of America.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great Greek American pride that I rise today to offer my congratulations on the occasion of the 85th anniversary of the American Hellenic Education Progressive Association. Founded in Atlanta, Georgia, on July 26, 1922, as a reaction to racism and bigotry, AHEPA is the oldest and largest American Hellenic organization in the United States today. Its mission, to promote Hellenism, education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, family and individual excellence, set the standard for ethnic organizations, and has helped Greek Americans become one of the most successful ethnic groups in the United States. AHEPA's list of accomplishments is amazing. It has endowed millions of dollars in academic scholarships, and the AHEPA family has contributed over $1 billion in national projects for such deserving entities as Saint Basil's Academy, Cooley's Anemia Foundation, the Special Olympics, and Muscular Dystrophy research. Additionally, the AHEPA National Housing Corporation has secured over $4 million to develop and complete over 70 housing projects for low- income seniors. AHEPA's patriotic endeavors have included helping thousands of Greek immigrants assimilate into American life, and four of those immigrants were my grandparents, Mr. Speaker, raising $253 million for the U.S. bond drive during World War II, helping to restore the Statue of Liberty, providing tens of thousands of dollars to the 9/11 relief effort, and sending countless care packages to our troops overseas. Its good works are endless, Mr. Speaker. That is why I am so proud to tell you that I am a member of AHEPA. And I will tell you that I am a member on the local level of the Tarpon Springs Chapter in Florida, the George Washington Chapter, Number 16, which was founded in the 1920s. As cochair of the Caucus on Hellenic Affairs, I will continue to work closely with my cochair, Carolyn Maloney, my fellow Greek American Congressmen and women, Philhellenes in Congress, as well as AHEPA president, Gus James, to encourage the wonderful educational and philanthropic endeavors that have characterized AHEPA for 85 years. Also, I promise to work in conjunction with AHEPA to continue to strengthen U.S./Greece relations, secure religious freedom and protection for the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and that is our number one issue, Mr. Speaker, and promote solutions to the Cypress and the FYROM issues. I wish Mr. Gus James and the whole AHEPA family continued success and a long life as it continues to serve as a beacon of hope, true and good things. That is what Hellenic Americans want. Bravo AHEPA, and at least 85 more.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself as much time as I may consume. Like all of my colleagues, I was greatly disturbed by the conditions at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center which were depicted in The Washington Post. Last week, I introduced H.R. 1580, the Wounded Warriors Joint Health Care Ombudsman Act. My legislation is intended to create a single point of reference for recovering servicemembers and their families to ensure they are receiving prompt responses and information to their questions. The amendment that I am offering today is a modified version of my legislation, and it creates a Department of Defense-wide ombudsman office within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. The functions of the office are to provide policy guidance and oversight to each military department. Specifically, the office would develop policy guidance with respect to providing assistance to and answering questions from recovering servicemembers and their families on a variety of important issues. The policy guidance developed by the ombudsman office should allow recovering servicemembers to get information on administrative processes, financial assistance, the transition to care from the Department of Veterans Affairs and the support services available upon the member's return home. Very important. The office would also establish accountability standards for the military departments. These standards would cover issues such as creating and maintaining case files for specific questions received, as well as tracking the response for all such questions. The office would also set timeliness standards for responses. Under my amendment, the office can also require each military department to submit status reports of actions taken to address individual concerns raised by the recovering servicemembers and their families. In closing, Mr. Chairman, everyone agrees that our military servicemembers should receive the highest quality of care and services possible. As they recover from their injuries, our wounded warriors should not have to battle bureaucracy to get the care and benefits they have earned. It is important that the ombudsman office be an advocate for servicemembers during every phase of treatment and the evaluation process as well. I urge my colleagues to support this important amendment. I would also like to thank Chairman Skelton and Ranking Member Duncan Hunter for their assistance.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. I yield to the gentleman from California.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. I yield to the gentleman from New Jersey.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to this rule but in support of H.R. 1401, the Rail and Public Transportation Security Act, which will improve the security of our Nation's rail, subway, and bus systems. I am very disappointed that this rule does not allow any Republicans on the Homeland Security Committee to offer amendments, of which there were several. Two of my committee colleagues, Congressman Daniel E. Lungren and Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite, have critically important amendments that would significantly improve this bill. However, I am pleased to support this bill, which my Homeland Security Committee approved unanimously. I support this bill because it will provide much-needed protections and security improvements for the millions of Americans that travel on our Nation's buses, our subway system, and our train system. The Rail and Public Transportation Security Act will require Federal officials and transportation providers to assess our vulnerability to terrorist attacks against these public transportation systems and determine ways to improve their security. I am especially pleased that the bill we are considering today includes two proposals that I made during committee consideration of this measure that I believe will strengthen our security against terrorist attacks on rail and mass transportation systems. First, the committee adopted an amendment I offered that requires DHS to conduct physical testing of railcars to determine the most likely successful means of attack against them. This is important because no real-world vulnerability testing has been done on the safety of tank cars carrying dangerous toxic-by-inhalation hazardous materials. My amendment remedies that by requiring such tests so that we can properly assess their current vulnerabilities and protect them to the most practical extent possible. My proposal also requires real-world plume modeling analysis for such attacks to help fill the current gaps in our understanding of these vulnerabilities so that we can better protect our constituents and first responders from attacks on tank cars carrying dangerous materials and mitigate their consequences. Second, this bill incorporates the text of an amendment that I filed during the committee's consideration of H.R. 1401 that requires the security coordinator positions required under section 103 of the bill to be filled by U.S. citizens, a requirement which I think makes sense for several reasons. U.S. citizenship is required for individuals seeking security clearances for access to classified information and materials. I very strongly believe that individuals who will be responsible for coordinating and implementing security plans for our Nation's rail and public transportation systems should be able to access, when appropriate, information to help them do their jobs as effectively as possible. I think it just makes sense to put American citizens in charge of the security for our country. As we saw during the Dubai Ports debacle, many of our constituents demanded that Americans be in charge of America's security, a position with which I hope we can all agree. I want to thank full committee Chairman Bennie Thompson, Ranking Member Peter King, Transportation Security and Infrastructure Protection Subcommittee Chairwoman Sheila Jackson-Lee, and subcommittee Ranking Member Dan Lungren for their hard work and open-mindedness in crafting this legislation. Mr. Speaker, we have rightly focused much of our time, attention, and resources on securing our Nation's aviation system in the years since 9/11. I believe it is time that we focus on securing our country's public transportation systems, which so many of our constituents use each day. This bill is a significant step in that direction. I urge our colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, today I proudly rise to celebrate a remarkable anniversary, that which marks a day of Greek independence which took place 186 years ago on March 25. It is also a celebration which recognizes the strong ties that bind together the United States of America and Greece. What a blessing to be able to straddle two brilliant cultures that have been the beacon of liberty and justice for humankind. Nothing makes me prouder than to call myself American, for it was the United States that welcomed my grandparents and allowed them to bring their morals, their values, their faith, their rich ethnic traditions and work ethic to this great land of opportunity and freedom. God, indeed, shed his grace on America, as he has on Greece, the prototype for the democratic republic that became the United States. Imagine, what a curious notion it may have seemed thousands of years ago when the ancient Greeks put forth the idea, a man being able to engage in self-rule. The originality of ideas articulated by Plato, Socrates, and all the great thinkers of ancient Greece served as an inspiration to America's colonial leaders like Jefferson, Washington, Madison, and Hamilton. It is the American revolution in turn that likely served as an inspiration for the Greeks that were suffocating under the Ottoman rule. 186 years ago the people began a journey that would mark the symbolic rebirth of democracy in the land where those principles to human decency were first espoused. March 25, 1821, is a historic day for all people who treasure freedom. Greece rose up in arms, fought brilliantly and finally overthrew the Ottoman rule, showing the world their deep and abiding commitment to democracy. The flag of revolt was raised by Bishop Germanos of Patras. Cries of Zito I Ellas, ``Long Live Greece,'' and Elefteria I Thanatos, ``Liberty or Death,'' could be heard from the mountains of Suli to the shores of Crete. In fact, the bravery of the Suliotes demonstrated that acts of courage were not limited to the men of Greece. The fierce patriotic villagers of Suli fought the Ottomans in several battles. News of their victories spread to nearby villages and inspired others to revolt. When the women, who were left alone, learned the Ottoman troops were approaching their village, they began dancing the Syrtos, which we still do today, a patriotic Greek dance. One by one with the children in arms, the Suliote women sacrificed themselves for the cause of liberty. They chose death rather than oppression. Stories of sacrifice like that of the Suliotes are plentiful. These actions, as well as the exploits and victories of the Greek Navy under Miaoulis, Kanaris, Bubulina, and Kolokotronis inspired the people of Europe, who finally brought pressure upon their governments to intervene in the fighting and compel the Sultan to recognize Greek independence, which finally secured the Treaty of Adrianople in 1829. We commemorate Independence Day each year for the same reasons we celebrate our 4th of July. It proved that a united people through sheer will and perseverance can prevail against tyranny. Both of our nations share an illustrious history in defense of this cherished ideal. Both countries have shared a common commitment to the principles of equality and freedom. In many ways, the American experiment might not have been possible without the Greek experience. Indeed, as Thomas Jefferson noted: ``To the ancient Greeks we are all indebted for the light which led ourselves, American colonists, out of the Gothic darkness.'' Democracy and freedom are the guiding beliefs that give hope to millions around the world. Remembering the sacrifice of the brave Greeks who gave their lives for the cause of liberty helps us all realize how important it is to be an active participant in our own democracy. As Plato noted: ``The penalty good men pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.'' Greeks, like Americans, have never been indifferent to the welfare of mankind. We share a belief that citizens must be engaged in governmental affairs and must work to promote liberty and justice throughout the world. That is why we honor those who secured independence for Greece nearly two centuries ago. Let us always remember their commitment to freedom. God bless America and Zito I Ellas.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary life and accomplishments of U.S.A.F. Col. Francis R. ``Frank'' Cappelletti, a giant amongst men. Col. Cappelletti was born in Koppel, Pennsylvania in 1918. He graduated from Laval University in Quebec City, Quebec before entering the Army Air Force in 1940. He completed navigation training with Pan American Airlines in Coral Gables, Florida in 1941. Thereafter, he was assigned to a B-17 outfit, the 19th Bomb Group. During WorId War II, Col. Cappelletti courageously flew 91 combat missions against the Japanese in the Pacific Theater of Operations. Later he served under General Curtis LeMay at the Strategic Air Command Headquarters. Frank Cappelletti's flying prowess extended beyond combat missions. Before it was routine, the Colonel pioneered the flight pattern from Alaska to the North Pole. His continued service in the Air Force had him participating in the Cuban Missile Crisis, as well as the Vietnam War. He retired as an Air Force Colonel after 30 years of service. During his extraordinary career he amassed several awards and honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross with cluster, Silver Star with clusters, and Air Medal. A humble man who never rested on his laurels, Col. Cappelletti continued serving his country and his community. After his retirement, Frank worked for the Defense Department civil service section for 11 years. He also volunteered for the Smithsonian Institution, translating documents from Russian into English. He was an active member of the Kiwanis Club, the Boys and Girls Club, the Military Officers Association of America, and of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in St. Petersburg Beach, Florida. A tall, striking figure with movie star good looks, Colonel Cappelletti was an exemplary resident of my district and I am so proud to have served him, even for a short time. His devoted wife, Rose Cappelletti, took care of him to the very end as Alzheimer's disease gradually consumed him. In the final days of his extraordinary life, Mrs. Cappelletti provided him with a last glimpse of what she described as the ``love of his life,'' a look at his beloved B-17 bomber as it toured a local airport. While the B-17 may be a close second, I know the real love of Colonel Cappelletti's life was Rose. Madam Speaker, may the Colonel's life be a model to which we should all strive. May he rest in peace, and may his memory be eternal.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address Walter Reed and this government's obligation to America's heroes. On Monday, I toured Walter Reed. My first impression is that one visit is not enough. I will make several more trips to the facility to speak with patients and staff about what they need and how we can best address this unacceptable situation. Mr. Speaker, our Nation's finest deserve the finest medical care, plain and simple. This Friday, I will continue my tour of local VA facilities when I visit the James A. Haley VA Hospital in Tampa. This is one of the largest VA facilities in the country, and serves many veterans in my district. Mr. Speaker, this is not a Democrat or Republican problem, this is America's problem and it requires a bipartisan solution. I urge my colleagues to work together to quickly address and resolve this situation. God bless our troops and veterans. They truly are America's heroes.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deep pride and respect to the Hellenic Republic as it prepares to celebrate the anniversary of Greek Independence Day, which took place on March 25, 1821. I am almost certain that Thomas Jefferson cast an eye across the Atlantic towards Greece when he uttered these words in 1821, ``The flames kindled on the 4th of July, 1776, have not spread over much of the globe to be extinguished by the feeble engines of despotism . . . On the contrary, they will consume these engines and all who work them.'' It is God's handiwork that I am blessed to straddle two cultures that have been beacons of liberty for all of civilization. The place of my birth, the land of the free and the home of the brave, the United States of America, and the land of my ancestors, the birthplace of democracy, the Hellenic Republic, Greece. I honor those brave and resilient Greeks who refused to be assimilated or converted into the Ottoman Empire. They endured centuries of torture and persecution to hang on to their precious heritage and faith. Bishop Germanos of Patras raised the emblem of freedom for Hellenes, the flag bearing a white cross and nine blue and white stripes representing the nine letters, eleftheria, freedom. This was an act of defiance against the Ottoman Empire, marking the beginning of Greece's war of independence on March 25, 1821. Cries of Zito I Ellas, long live Greece; Eleftheria I Thanatos, live free or die, could be heard from the Ionian to the Aegean, from the Peloponeseus to the Dodocanese where my grandparents are from. It took 8 hard-fought years, until 1829, for the Sultan Mahmud to capitulate and surrender. Greek independence was guaranteed with the Treaty of Adrianople. Greeks were the first Ottoman subjects to secure recognition as an independent and sovereign nation. It was a fierce fight that drew support from Philhellenes the world over. None other than the United States, England, Lord Byron was wonderful in this cause. Undoubtedly, these Philhellenes were indebted to Greece, the world's first advanced civilization, for providing a cultural heritage that has influenced the world with firsts in philosophy, politics, mathematics, science, art and sport with the Olympics, just to name a few. I honor my ancestors for their deep abiding conviction in all that is good and true about mankind. I celebrate their bravery and commitment to freedom and justice. I praise their perseverance and patience in the face of unspeakable hardships. I commend their sacrifices to posterity so that, should there ever be another who seeks to oppress freedom- loving people, we will be able to look upon history and summon up the same courage that those unyielding Hellenes exhibited nearly two centuries ago. Just as our great Founding Fathers studied the model of democracy the ancient Greeks put forth, it is likely our revolution for independence in the late 18th century served as a blueprint for the early 19th- century Greeks to try their hand at freedom and sovereignty. It is a beautiful, symbolic symbiotic relationship that the United States and Greece have shared since, and it continues to enjoy. As George Washington proclaimed at the onset of the American Revolution: ``Our cause is noble. It is the cause of mankind.'' So it was in 1776 America and in 1821 Greece, and so it will always remain. Zito I Ellas, and God bless America.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, my State of Florida is going through a crisis, a crisis that began with the devastating hurricanes that ripped through my State in recent years, a crisis made worse by the overwhelming tornados that plagued central Florida earlier this month. These and other natural disasters have pushed homeowners' insurance rates to unaffordable levels. As a result, many of my constituents have been forced to leave the area they call home. It is incumbent upon this body to pass legislation that would help my State and others affected by these forces reduce the cost of skyrocketing homeowners' insurance rates. I have introduced H.R. 913, the Hurricane and Tornado Mitigation Investment Act to do just that. My bill would provide tax incentives to home and business owners to better protect their homes and businesses from major storms to reduce the loss of innocent lives and destruction of private property. The end result would be more manageable insurance rates. Mr. Speaker, hurricane season begins in a few months, but the tornados that hit my State are a stark reminder that Mother Nature doesn't keep a calendar. I encourage my colleagues to support and help me pass H.R. 913.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, failure in Iraq is not an option. We enjoy our freedom today only because we have been willing to fight for it in the past. We must win the war on terror that has been thrust upon us. Before going any further, let me first clearly state that I do not believe we should have an open-ended commitment in Iraq. I believe a new strategy is needed. America has a proud history of promoting and fighting for democracy around the globe. I don't believe now is the time to abandon that commitment. While a new strategy is needed, the resolution that we are debating does not present us with any new policy options. Instead, we are voting on a nonbinding status quo resolution which will not do anything to change the situation in Iraq. It smacks of political posturing. Americans expect more of the world's greatest legislative body. Let us not debase the honor and tradition of the great men and women who have served before us. We are duty bound to serve the public and engage in serious lawmaking, not political pandering. This resolution does nothing. Worse, it endorses the status quo of the violence and bloodshed. Maintaining the status quo is what ultimately resulted in the situation we find ourselves in today. The debate before is more consequential than the question of should we engage in a troop surge or not. None of us want to see Americans unnecessarily be put in harm's way. The debate before us is about the global threats facing the United States and how we choose to respond to them. Failure to forcibly respond to previous acts of terrorism has undermined America's credibility around the world and projected us as weak to our enemies. Some examples of these attacks include: the World Trade Center in 1993; U.S. troops in the barracks in Saudi Arabia; sailors on the USS Cole; and the bombings of the U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania. Unfortunately, Americans were too quick to forget these terrible acts. Like many Members of Congress, I believe there should be strategic benchmarks that are designed to hold both the administration and the Iraqi Government accountable for success in Iraq. These benchmarks should measure whether sufficient progress is being made. Unfortunately, under the restrictive rules imposed upon this debate, we will not have an opportunity to vote on other proposals which would institute benchmarks for success. I am compelled to vote against this status quo resolution. Americans deserve a real debate with multiple options for success in Iraq, not closed proceedings that are intended to be a political ploy. I would rather America fight the terrorists on the streets of Baghdad, instead of allowing the terrorists to attack our homeland. I am concerned that the resolution we are debating this week is a precursor to cutting off funds for our troops. The Democrats have even called it a first step. I have heard it several times tonight. Our troops must have all the resources they need to accomplish their mission. I support our troops in the field. Therefore, I will vote ``no'' on this resolution. General Petraeus has indicated that reinforcements will hasten the end of the Iraq battle, allowing us to direct our efforts elsewhere in this greater war on radical Islamic terrorists. The national commander of the VFW, the Nation's largest organizations of combat veterans, issued a statement earlier this week which says, ``We need to send a message to our troops that America wants them to succeed in Iraq by giving the buildup a chance to succeed.'' As a Member of Congress, I will always do whatever possible to support our brave men and women in uniform. As such, I will actively oppose efforts to cut off funding to our troops. I cannot support this resolution, but I am committed to working with the President and my colleagues in Congress to ensure that the actions taken in the war accomplish the following: Moves Iraq closer to a peaceful and stable democracy; improves America's security; ensures the utmost safety and best equipment for our soldiers; and provides the shortest feasible time frame for their return to their families. Failure in Iraq will lead to Iraq becoming a training and staging ground for terrorist groups intent on destabilizing the entire Middle East and destroying the United States and our allies. In closing, I thank and offer my prayers for all our troops, including those brave men and women in the Ninth Congressional District and throughout the State of Florida who have answered their Nation's call to duty. God bless our troops, and keep them safe.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I do not.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield such 3 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Poe).

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Reichert).

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today in support of House Resolution 134, which honors and recognizes the contributions the employees of the Department of Homeland Security make to our country's safety and security. I am pleased to be an original cosponsor of this resolution with my Homeland Security colleague, Christopher Carney, who chairs the Management, Investigations and Oversight Subcommittee. I also want to acknowledge other original cosponsors, including my subcommittee ranking member, Mike Rogers, full committee chairman Bennie Thompson, and full committee ranking member Peter King, a man who has worked on Homeland Security issues, and I greatly admire his work. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to help bring this resolution to the floor today because I think that DHS employees are too often overlooked and underappreciated, and unfairly criticized in most cases despite their most dedicated and earnest efforts to do their job, which they do very well. Mr. Speaker, I believe that they have been tasked with an almost impossible job, I think you will agree, and am confident that DHS employees are doing the very best they can under some extraordinary, difficult circumstances. I was, however, particularly disappointed to learn, as the recent survey shows, that the morale of the department is low, and that DHS employees have less job satisfaction than any other group of Federal employees. That is not good to see. I have heard that the department's employees are concerned that they do not have the resources to do their jobs effectively, that they are not promoted based on merit, that creativity and innovation are not properly rewarded, and, perhaps most troubling, most of them do not believe that they have access to adequate information about what is happening in their department. This needs to change, as far as I am concerned. I am heartened that department secretary, Michael Jackson, has told DHS employees, ``Starting at the top, the leadership team across DHS is committed to address the underlying reason for DHS employee dissatisfaction and suggestions for improvement.'' I also commend DHS Secretary, Michael Chertoff, in comments before our committee last week for acknowledging the problem and promising to fix it. I believe it is imperative to the security of our homeland that the dedicated men and women who carry out the directives and policies that Congress puts forward feel good about themselves and the jobs that they are doing so they can best achieve the very noble goals toward which they are working. It should be proud of the work the more than 200,000 employees at DHS work tirelessly to help prevent and respond to acts of terrorism, natural disasters and other emergencies. I think Secretary Chertoff's directive to the Homeland Security Advisory Council to establish a culture task force to respond on ways to empower, energize, and create a more mission-focused culture within DHS and among its Federal, State and local partners was a good first step. I would say, however, that the answers lie not in creating more bureaucracy but in streamlining and better defining the mission of DHS headquarters and allowing its component organizations to use their particular talents and expertise to accomplish their individual mission in as efficient, creative, and innovative manner as possible. I also believe we must acknowledge the role that Congress has played and will continue to play in the ultimate success or failure of the department in accomplishing its mission of defending America and saving lives. We in this body must be sensitive to the demands and mandates that we place on DHS employees in the conduct of the war. I think we can all agree that an overwhelming majority of DHS employees are hardworking, as I said. They are dedicated and hardworking individuals who are personally committed to keeping us, our families, our country secure from terrorist attacks and other disasters that could befall this great Nation. We must remember, however, that decentralized congressional jurisdiction over Homeland Security issues and the desire to provide proper oversight often makes it difficult for them to do their job. I hope that, especially as members of the Homeland Security Committee, we do not unintentionally make their jobs more difficult in our desire to do our jobs. I want to thank full committee chairman Bennie Thompson, ranking member Peter King, subcommittee chairman Chris Carney, and subcommittee ranking member Mike Rogers for bringing this resolution to the floor today. I urge all of my colleagues to support this resolution and recognize the contributions DHS employees make to protect and secure our Nation. They should know that we understand the daily challenges they face and appreciate the dedication and hard work, the professionalism which they embody, and they conduct themselves in a fine manner. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary life and accomplishments of Mr. Juan Desosa. Juan was born in Havana, Cuba, on February 10, 1927. His family was involved in the sugar and newspaper business, and he and his five siblings lived a happy life until 1959, when communist revolutionaries led by Fidel Castro took everything away from them. At that time, Juan made a life altering decision to leave his homeland and family and escape Cuba for freedom. In 1960, Juan left Cuba and successfully made it to Miami, Florida. Not forgetting his homeland and the suffering of those he left behind, he worked to do everything in his power to help those that were not as lucky as he was. It was in Miami that Juan heard talk of a plan to liberate Cuba, and he soon found himself in the mountains of Guatemala with other Cuban refugees secretly training for an invasion. It was these refugees who later became the would-be liberators of the Bay of Pigs invasion. Juan fought fiercely for as long as he could, but was ultimately captured by Castro's soldiers. He suffered unimaginable conditions in a Cuban concentration camp for 3 years. Only after an exchange of prisoners for dollars between the Kennedy and Castro governments, was Juan released. True to his character, upon returning to the U.S., Juan did not settle into a life of comfort and ease, but wanted to serve the country that liberated him twice, providing him with the economic, political, and religious freedom that was stripped away from him from his home country. He joined the U.S. Army, and during his military service, he proudly became a U.S. citizen. After serving 10 years in the Army, during which he engaged in combat missions during the Vietnam war, Juan retired as a major. He settled down with his wife in New Port Richey, Florida, where he raised six children. Along the way, Juan has been recognized as an extraordinary businessman in his community who has owned and operated many popular restaurants in Florida's Ninth Congressional District. Currently, he owns and manages Juan Black Bean Deli in New Port Richey, an establishment that serves one of the best Cuban sandwiches on Florida's west coast. Madam Speaker, as my good friend, Juan Desosa celebrates his 80th birthday, he has much for which to be proud. The life he has lived, and continues to live, serves as an example to us. He has displayed an uncommon courage, valor, and patriotism combined with his love of God, family and community that has benefited not only his fellow countrymen whom he endeavored to liberate, but his fellow citizens in the United States of America for whose freedom and liberty he fought for as a member of the U.S. Army.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, as a member of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 5 which expresses support for Hire a Veteran Week. I could not agree more with this resolution or with the initiative it expresses support for. I believe it should be the goal of all businesses, whenever feasible, to hire a veteran. Madam Speaker, America's brave men and women put their lives, both personal and professional, on hold to serve this country and defend freedom. The very least we can do as a body is endorse initiatives intended to help with the transition back into society. I am proud to join Members on both sides of the aisle in supporting this legislation and encouraging the President to issue a proclamation supporting the goals of ``Hire a Veteran.'' Madam Speaker, I am an ardent supporter of America's veterans, having already sponsored three pieces of legislation intended to improve veterans' benefits. As such, I will continue to support legislation intended to improve the lives of our veterans and their families.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 39, to congratulate the University of Florida football team on winning the 2006 national championship. As a University of Florida graduate born in Gator country, that is Gainesville, Florida, I could not be happier with the outcome of the championship game. Very few people believed the Gators deserved to beat Ohio State or to get in the championship game, let alone beating Ohio State, a great team. But the SEC did beat the Big 10. They certainly proved the critics wrong. I also would like to congratulate the University of Florida for becoming the first institution in Division I history to hold both the NCAA men's basketball championship and the football championship simultaneously. And, who knows, there may be another basketball championship in the waning. Right now we are number one. This achievement, of course, is very historic. Madam Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join me in congratulating a great coach, Urban Meyer, and the fine young men from the University of Florida. And congratulations to Gators everywhere. It is great to be a Florida Gator. Go Gators!

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I rise today in support of House Resolution 2, the Fair Minimum Wage Act, to increase our Nation's minimum wage. It has been nearly a decade since this standard has been updated. I am pleased that we are here today to give many hardworking men and women a much-needed raise. I am concerned, however, that the bill in its current form may adversely impact our Nation's small businesses, which are the backbone of our robust economy. I am also disappointed that my Republican colleagues and I will not have an opportunity to strengthen this bill by including provisions to help reduce any potential unintended consequences that raising the minimum wage may have on our employers. For that reason, I intend to support the Republican motion to recommit so that we can put more money in the pockets of hardworking Americans while protecting our small businesses.