Cheri Bustos

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Peoria Medical Society Alliance (PMSA) for its 80 years of service to the Peoria community. The PMSA is a not-for-profit organization that works with the Peoria Medical Society to promote the health, the education, and the quality of life for the people of the Peoria community. Partnered with the Peoria Medical Society, the PMSA has several committees dedicated to important causes in the community. For example, in their Adopt-A-School program they adopted Whittier Grade School to tutor kindergarteners and first graders. They also host game nights and parties for senior homes, such as Heddington Oaks. PMSA even provides scholarships for students attending college in health-related fields. I commend the PMSA for its contributions to the local Peoria community and I thank them for their kindness and generosity. It is because of leaders such as the PMSA that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally recognize the Peoria Medical Society Alliance for its great work in the Peoria community.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Eastland High School Girls Basketball Team, who won the Illinois High School Association's Class 1A State Finals Girls Basketball Tournament. Despite being down by ten at half-time, the team ramped up their defense and came back to beat their opponent 62-57 in the state championship. Eastland finished the season 34-3, with the 34 wins being the most in program history. As a former athlete, I appreciate the fortitude the team displayed to achieve their dream of being a state champions and commend them for their efforts and attitude. This team is an example of the importance of dedication and a strong work ethic, and I am proud to see them represent Lanark so well throughout the state with his talent and passion. It is because of student leaders such as the Eastland High School Girls Basketball Team that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate the Eastland High School Girls Basketball Team on their Class 1A State Finals title in Basketball.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Matt and Mike Blaum for transforming their liquor distillery during the COVID-19 pandemic to make hand sanitizer, to be distributed at no cost to the community. These Hometown Heroes are being recognized for utilizing their business to contribute to those in need during these trying times. Blaum Bros. Distillery was founded in 2013 by Matt and Mike with the hope of distilling beverages they could enjoy together. Since March 2020, they have pivoted their purpose to make hand sanitizer and even have a button on their website for hand sanitizer requests. I commend them for taking action during a pandemic, when supplies are in short supply. I thank them for their kindness and generosity to the Moline community. It is because of leaders such as Matt and Mike Blaum that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally recognize the Blaum Brothers and their Distillery for their kindness and generosity.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor SwedishAmerican Hospital for its kindness and generosity in sharing personal protective equipment with at least 15 long-term care and rehabilitation facilities in Rockford, Illinois. The hospital recognized a need in the community and decided to use their resources to step up. SwedishAmerican Hospital has received numerous donations in the past two weeks, allowing it to share gloves, hair nets, masks, Lysol wipes and other items. When other facilities were running low on supplies and did not have the capacity to organize and accept donations themselves, SwedishAmerican Hospital stepped in and helped ensure that supplies were delivered. For more than a century, this hospital has been serving the Rockford community in many ways. The people working at SwedishAmerican Hospital are Hometown Heroes for all they do to serve patients and their community. It is because of community leaders such as SwedishAmerican Hospital that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally recognize SwedishAmerican Hospital for identifying the need in the Rockford community and filling that need.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Leslie Williams for recognizing a need in Moline, Illinois for protective masks and making over 1,200 of them for police, firefighters and all who need them. Leslie is currently out of work as a server and owner of a cleaning company; but is using her time to help others by creating masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. The masks are meant to go to first responders, front liners and all who need them. She says there is always something we can do to help others and that mentality is why she is a Hometown Hero. Leslie is using her forced time off to do good in the world and in her community. I commend Leslie for her efforts to help others and I wish her all the best in her future endeavors. It is because of leaders such as Leslie Williams that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally recognize Leslie Williams for her generosity during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Krista Wynes for her efforts with the group she created called Heart Hunters, which encourages parents and children to create hearts to display in their windows to encourage personal connection even while social distancing. The group was started on March 21st and now has over 580,000 members worldwide. Ms. Wynes is married to Dave Wynes and is the mother of two children, Lincoln and Harrison, and lives in Galesburg, Illinois. She works as an ophthamalic technician in Peoria, and created the group on Facebook to reach out to neighbors while staying home and social distancing. Heart Hunters reminds people throughout different towns, states and nations that we are all in this together and none of us are alone. I commend Ms. Wynes on her work to bring people together in these rough times. She has shown kindness, resilience, and community building. It is because of leaders such as Ms. Wynes that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally recognize Krista Wynes for her work to bring people together through her Facebook group, Heart Hunters.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kyle Tunink, a senior from Newman Central Catholic High School, who won the Illinois High School Association's Class 1A State Finals Wrestling Tournament in the 152 pound weight class. To claim the state title, Kyle defeated his opponent in a 5-1 victory. As a former athlete, I appreciate the fortitude Kyle displayed to achieve his dream of being a state champion and commend him for his efforts and attitude. Kyle is an example of the importance of dedication and a strong work ethic, and I am proud to see him represent Sterling so well throughout the state with his talent and passion. It is because of student leaders such as Kyle Tunink that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Kyle Tunink on his Class 1A State Finals title in Wrestling.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Jakobs Brothers Farms for its efforts in combating hunger in our district during our state and nation's time of need. This family farm is encouraging other farms to donate grains to local grain bins in exchange for donations to local food pantries. Organized by Jakobs Brothers Farms, grain donations from area farmers are being converted into supplies for local food pantries to help others during the coronavirus pandemic. At bins and elevators throughout Northern Illinois, Rock River Lumber and Grain, F/S Grain, and Gold Star F/S are taking grain donations, and in return donating the cost to local food pantries. I commend Jakobs Brothers Farms for creating this way to help those most in need, and I am proud of all of the work they are doing. I appreciate all they are doing to help local communities. It is because of leaders such as Jakobs Brothers Farms that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally recognize Jakobs Brothers Farms for their kindness and generosity.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Phoenix Blakely, a freshman from Dakota High School, who won the Illinois High School Association's Class 1A State Finals Wrestling Tournament in the 120 pound weight class. Phoenix is 37-7 and now a state champion. He previously competed in three straight Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation title matches where he placed second, but he was determined to win first at the high school state tournament. As a former athlete, I appreciate the fortitude Phoenix displayed to achieve his dream of being a state champion and commend him for his efforts and attitude. Phoenix is an example of the importance of dedication and a strong work ethic, and I am proud to see him represent Dakota so well throughout the state with his talent and passion. It is because of student leaders such as Phoenix Blakely that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Phoenix Blakely on his Class 1A State Finals title in Wrestling.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bryce Faworski, a senior from Winnebago High School, who won the Illinois High School Association's Class 1A State Finals Wrestling Tournament in the 160 pound weight class. Bryce went a perfect 4-0 at the state tournament to complete a 39-1 record on the season. As a former athlete, I appreciate the fortitude Bryce displayed to achieve his dream of being a state champion and commend him for his efforts and attitude. Bryce is an example of the importance of dedication and a strong work ethic, and I am proud to see him represent Winnebago so well throughout the state with his talent and passion. It is because of student leaders such as Bryce Faworski that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Bryce Faworski on his Class 1A State Finals title in Wrestling.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bryan Caves, a junior from Riverdale High School, who won the Illinois High School Association's Class 1A State Finals Wrestling Tournament in the 220 pound weight class. Bryan was the aggressor and rode on top for most of the six-minute match. After coming in underweight, he had to rely on his conditioning and training to win the match. In the end, Bryan won the state title by a 4-2 decision. As a former athlete, I appreciate the fortitude Bryan displayed to achieve his dream of being a state champion and commend him for his efforts and attitude. Bryan is an example of the importance of dedication and a strong work ethic, and I am proud to see him represent Port Byron so well throughout the state with his talent and passion. It is because of student leaders such as Bryan Caves that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Bryan Caves on his Class 1A State Finals title in Wrestling.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Aryan Arora for his win in Impromptu Speaking at the IHSA Individual Events State Tournament. Aryan is the seventh state speech champion from Rockford Public Schools and the first since 1963. Aryan is a senior at Auburn High School in Rockford, Illinois. Students at the state tournament had just eight minutes to prepare content on a given topic and then deliver a meaningful, organized and impactful speech. Aryan is a member of the Rockford Public Schools Superintendent's Student Advisory Council, Auburn High School's Debate Club, and the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois' In Youth We Trust Council. He was also named a commended student by the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program. I commend Aryan for his hard work and dedication to public speaking and to both his school and community. It is because of student leaders such as Aryan that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Aryan Arora on his win in Impromptu Speaking at the IHSA Individual Events State Tournament.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nolan Throne, a senior from Rockridge High School, who won the Illinois High School Association's Class 1A State Finals Wrestling Tournament in the 145 pound weight class. Nolan was in a scoreless bout until the third period, where he took down his opponent and secured a victory. As a former athlete, I appreciate the fortitude Nolan displayed to achieve his dream of being a state champion and commend him for his efforts and attitude. Nolan is an example of the importance of dedication and a strong work ethic, and I am proud to see him represent Taylor Ridge so well throughout the state with his talent and passion. It is because of student leaders such as Nolan Throne that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Nolan Throne on his Class 1A State Finals title in Wrestling.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, 4 weeks ago we passed the largest economic rescue in American history. Today we replenish some of its most important programs. Behind each program are real people in desperate need of our help: healthcare workers and hospitals in dire need of support, supplies, and testing; Small business owners agonizing amid uncertainty and boxed out of loans by big banks serving well-connected clients; and Our family farmers who continue to feed the world under unprecedented hardship, unable to qualify for the disaster loans afforded to others. Today's legislation rights these wrongs. It also harnesses the help of our community banks and our credit unions, but it does not go far enough. Our cities, our States need assistance now. They soon may have to lay off police and first responders, the very people we need on the front lines in this crisis. Our corn growers and ethanol producers deserve the same help afforded Big Oil. We must take care of them in this next relief package.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the CARES Act. Yesterday, the United States became the country with the most known COVID-19 cases in the world. We are all concerned for our families, for our friends, for our farmers, for our futures. But today, we have the opportunity to take a step forward to come together, even as we must stand apart, to help our fellow Americans, to strengthen our communities, and to face this threat as one. Illinois workers are afraid they will lose their jobs, if they have not already. Small businesses are making hard decisions between keeping staff or closing their doors. And our farmers, who have already endured so much pain, are worried sick about what is ahead this year, not only because of this worldwide pandemic, but also because of the threats of more flooding. That is why I join my colleagues on the floor today to cast my vote for the most significant relief package in American history. This vital legislation will help struggling Americans make ends meet. It will expand unemployment insurance to help those who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. It will help small businesses secure precious dollars to keep their employees and communities afloat. It will help our farmers, who have always stood with us, to provide much-needed resources to feed the world. This bill is not perfect. No bill ever is. But it is the strong medicine we need to defeat this invisible enemy. Let us come together today to pass this bill and declare that no virus will ever tear apart this country.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bonnie Hester for her work in the Peoria community and to honor her as a part of Black History Month. Bonnie spent 35 years in the public sector and was most recently a Program Assistant for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program. Bonnie Hester earned a certificate in Labor History from the University of Illinois and a Clerical Certificate from the Vocational School of Southern Illinois. Bonnie worked for the Peoria City/County Health Department for 25 years. Bonnie served on the Health Care Committee for Peoria County employees and was President of local AFSCME Union Chapter No. 3665 for 14 years. She represented District 1 on the Peoria County Board for eight years and served as the board's precinct committee person. Now retired, Bonnie serves on the Executive Board for the West Central Labor Council representing AFSCME retirees and volunteers for the American Red Cross Disaster Services, the Heart of Illinois United Way, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. She also serves on the school board for Peoria Christ Lutheran School, and is a long-time member of Christ Lutheran Church, where she teaches Sunday School. Bonnie and her husband, Jerry, have been married for 39 years and have three children and six grandchildren. I commend Bonnie on her service to the Peoria community. It is because of community leaders such as Bonnie Hester that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally recognize Bonnie Hester for her great work in the Peoria community and honor her as a part of Black History Month.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Knoxville High School Dance Team for its win at the Illinois Drill Team Association (IDTA) State Finals for Class A Kick Dance. The Knoxville High School Dance Team overcame significant adversity to win this title and I commend them for their hard work and dedication. After parting ways with two coaches who could not stay and coach the team, volunteer moms Tammy Myers and Jennifer Stoneking came on board to help high school captains Fionna Drake and Clara Ponder complete the season. The team practiced whenever they could, outside of their mandatory three lessons per week. Parents across the community opened their garages and other spare spaces to the girls for practice. The teamwork and dedication displayed by the moms, team captains and the dancers is remarkable and led them to victory at the IDTA State Finals. As a former athlete, I admire the fortitude the Knoxville High School Dance Team displayed to achieve their dreams of being state champions and I commend them for their efforts and can-do attitudes. I am proud to see them represent Knoxville so well throughout the state with their talent and passion. It is because of student leaders such as the Knoxville High School Dance Team that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate the Knoxville High School Dance Team on its victory at the IDTA State Finals in the Class A Kick Dance category.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Margaret Patricia Whelcher for her achievements in the United States Air Force for Black History Month. Ms. Whelcher served from August 3, 1988 to November 5, 1991 and earned the rank of Senior Airman. Senior Airman Whelcher trained at Lackland Air Force Base and Langley Air Force Base, and was part of the 1913 Communications Group. Her dedication and passion are evident, I commend Senior Airman Whelcher for her service and honor her as a part of the Black History Month Program in Rockford called ``Capturing American History: The Unique Perspective of the African American Female Service Member.'' I would like to thank Senior Airman Whelcher for her service and recognize her for her experiences as an African American, female service member. It is because of community leaders like Margaret that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally honor Margaret Patricia Whelcher for her service in the United States Air Force.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the village of Williamsfield, Illinois for receiving the 2019 Governor's Hometown Award Cup for the Playground Barn Raising Project. The Williamsfield Park District and Williamsfield Future Farmers of America Alumni and Friends worked together to make this project possible. The Governor's Hometown Award Cup has been bestowed every year since 1983 to recognize those who have contributed to projects that improve quality of life in the community. When the playground in Williamsfield village park started deteriorating, $150,000 were raised to build a multi-level playground barn with several other play features. Seventy- seven volunteers were recruited and gave 2,032 hours to build these structures. The award committee noted that the ``inspirational barn raising promotes physical activity among youth and embodies the power of volunteerism.'' This marks the first time the award has gone to anyone in Knox County, Illinois. Williamsfield will keep the trophy for a year and the Illinois Department of Transportation will set up a road sign in the community for the award. I commend Williamsfield for their dedication to the community. It is because of the community leaders, volunteers and everyone who made the Playground Barn Raising Project possible in Williamsfield that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate the village of Williamsfield for winning the 2019 Governor's Hometown Award Cup.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lana McCants for her achievements in the United States Navy for Black History Month. Ms. McCants served from May of 1991 to January of 1997 and earned the rank of Operations Specialist Third Class. Operations Specialist Third Class McCants trained at the Orlando Naval Training Station and the Virginia Beach Naval Technical Training Facility. She was part of the crew of the USS Acadia, the Point Loma Naval Submarine Station, the USS David R. Ray, and Operation Desert Storm. I commend her for her service and honor her as a part of the Black History Month Program in Rockford called ``Capturing American History: The Unique Perspective of the African-American Female Service Member.'' I would like to thank Lana McCants for her service and recognize her for her experiences as an African American female servicemember. She has shown true commitment, leadership and determination throughout her time in the Navy. It is because of community leaders like Lana that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally honor Lana McCants for her service in the United States Navy.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Milana Herman for her achievements in the United States Army for Black History Month. Ms. Herman served in the Active Army from 1989 to 1994 and the Army Reserve from 1994 to 1997 and earned the rank of Staff Sergeant. Staff Sergeant Herman served as part of the HHC 440th Signal Battalion in Germany, the HHC 4th Battalion 58th Aviation regiment in South Korea, and the HHC 25th Signal Brigade Battalion in Ft. Bragg, North Carolina during her time in the Active Army. She served in the 335th Company 4th Brigade, 85 Division in the Army Reserves. I commend her for her service and honor her as a part of the Black History Month Program in Rockford called ``Capturing American History: The Unique Perspective of the African American Female Service Member.'' I would like to thank Milana Herman for her service and recognize her for her experiences as an African American female servicemember. Her bravery, strength and patriotism are admirable. It is because of community leaders like Milana that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally honor Milana Herman for her service in the United States Army.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as we celebrate Black History Month across our Nation. And I want to recognize the extraordinary efforts of three African American women from Rockford, Illinois, who have honorably served three separate branches of our Armed Forces. Our Nation is indebted to them. Later this week, the stories of Margaret Patricia Whelcher, Lana McCants, and Milana Herman will be displayed to the public at the Veterans Memorial Hall and Museum in Rockford, Illinois. Their contributions to our country have been chronicled by local students from Harlem High School as part of the annual Harlem Veterans Project, and they have conducted interviews, shot videos, and have photographs and more. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to bring attention to their sacrifices and thank them for their service today. Margaret Patricia Whelcher, she served in the United States Air Force from 1988 to 1991 and achieved the rank of senior airman. Lana McCants, she served in the United States Navy from 1991 to 1997 and achieved the rank of operation specialist 3rd class. Milana Herman served in the United States Army from 1989 to 1994 and achieved the rank of staff sergeant. In addition to their distinguished military service, these veterans have worked to better our community. Lana is an active member of the American Legion Post 340, while Margaret and Milana routinely participate in local stand-downs, where they offer a variety of support services for at-risk veterans. I am proud to see them represent our community with such distinction and such honor. Their selfless commitment to country and community sets a strong example for the leaders of tomorrow. It is crucial that their inspirational stories are spread far and wide. That is why I applaud the work of those students participating in the Harlem Veterans Project. These students have sought to build a unique bond with members of the community and raise the voices of those around them. Institutions like the Veterans Memorial Hall and Museum in Rockford, which will feature these incredible women, tell the stories of so many who have made an immense impact on the lives of those across our region. It is only fitting that the stories of Margaret, Lana, and Milana will be displayed with the rest of them. We must never forget those who paved the path before us. Stories like theirs make up the very fabric of our Nation. They should be cherished and celebrated.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lexi Rodriguez, a junior from Sterling High School, who was named the 2019-2020 Gatorade Illinois Volleyball Player of the Year. Lexi led the Golden Warriors to a 36-6 record and a second win at Class 3A State Championships this year. Showing her dedication to sports, she also took part of this season to help Team USA win a gold medal at the FIVB Girls U18 World Championships in Egypt. In addition, she is a three-year class president and a youth volleyball coach. As a former athlete, I commend her for her determination and attitude. Lexi is an example of the importance of dedication and a strong work ethic. I am proud to see her represent Sterling so well throughout the state and the country with her talent and passion. It is because of student leaders such as Lexi that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Lexi Rodriguez on being named the 2019-2020 Gatorade Illinois Volleyball Player of the Year.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I appreciate Chairman Neal for yielding me the time. In my congressional district, I represent more than 9,600 family farms and 90,000 labor households. I have toured my district many times and was fortunate enough to bring the Speaker of the House into the State of Illinois over the summer to meet with our family farmers. Trade is one of the top issues people back home bring up to me, and the message that they deliver is loud and clear: We need a strong trade deal with broad-based support to help both America's farmers and our labor communities. I have worked to help bring parties to the table and reach a deal that works for everyone. I am proud to say that the United States- Mexico-Canada trade agreement is that deal. The USMCA outlines protections for labor that will make America better prepared to expand opportunities for our workforce. It builds on trade relationships critical to our agriculture markets, and it represents the strongest trade enforcement mechanisms our country has ever seen. I am proud to cast my vote to support this step forward and to help build the foundation for future trade agreements.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Command Sergeant Major Ann Marie Sydnor on her retirement from the United States Army. CSM Sydnor is a native of Rock Island, Illinois and a graduate of Rock Island High School. She attended Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training in 1992 at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, graduating as a Unit Supply Specialist. She held many leadership positions during her career in the U.S. Army, such as Squad Leader, Supply Sergeant, Platoon Sergeant, Senior Drill Sergeant, Battalion S4 NCOIC, Supply Accounting NCOIC, G4 Multi-Class Logistics NCOIC, First Sergeant, Support Operations Sergeant Major, Battalion Command Sergeant Major, Brigade Command Sergeant Major and U.S. Army Command G4 Sergeant Major. CSM Sydnor has been stationed at home and abroad on various important assignments and has earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and several others. She exemplifies patriotism, determination and passion. It is because of community leaders such as Command Sergeant Major Ann Marie Sydnor that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate CSM Ann Marie Sydnor on her retirement from the United States Army.