Brian Babin

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, severe storms delayed my flight on May 9, 2023, and I missed that evening's suspensions. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 203, and YEA on Roll Call No. 204.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I am up here in my capacity as not only a United States Congressman, but also one of the co-chairs of the House Border Security Caucus. On a monthly basis, we have had dozens of speakers come to speak to our Caucus. Normally, there are probably 30 who are present, but we have an enrollment in our Caucus of about 60 to 70, quite frankly. It is amazing to me to hear our colleagues and friends on the other side of the aisle talk about humanity and humane treatment because I remember in the previous administration, when we had these so-called kids in cages. I took a congressional delegation down to the Rio Grande Valley, we went to Donna, Texas, to see one of the detention facilities. After that, we went out to Carrizo Springs to the HHS facility there. Then we went, at a later time, to Fort Bliss out in El Paso. At each one of those, we saw these so-called kids in cages. Then we went back after the change of administration and dramatically, there was nothing really different, except the enormous numbers of detainees in pods that were equipped to hold maybe 25 or 30, and they had a couple hundred people packed in these little pods. I remember being told by the facilities there that the administration, the Biden administration, at the time that these unaccompanied children were coming in--and we are talking about 13,000 per month of unaccompanied children coming in now--that they were being so well cared for, and they were being reunited with their families and their loved ones. I remember asking the folks who were in charge of these facilities, okay, if they are being taken care of, let me ask you a question because I have 17 grandkids. Kids mean a lot to me. My wife and I have been married 50 years. We have 5 children and now 17 grandkids. Kids need to be cared for, without question. I said, are you doing any vetting of these so-called families? Are you doing background checks? Are you doing criminal history checks on them? Oh, well, we don't have the resources to do that. Are you doing DNA testing? Well, we don't have DNA. We don't have the resources to do DNA testing, as well. Although during the Trump administration they were doing some DNA testing. So now we come to the point where there are 85,000 unaccounted for children, UACs, under this administration's watch. Where are these kids? They are supposed to be followed up on by the authorities and the administration where these children are being sent. There are 85,000 that are unaccounted for. We have seen a skyrocketing of violations of child labor laws. We know that there are some real shady deals going on in this country and that human trafficking, sex slavery, et cetera, is rampant. Is this part of that deal? I am not up here pointing fingers in an accusatory way. But if you can't keep up with 85,000 UACs, we have got some real problems in this administration. We have also had conversations with Alejandro Mayorkas, who is the DHS Secretary. I actually led that meeting. Of course, he is not under oath talking to our caucus.

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, we are being told that Mr. Mayorkas says that he has operational control over the border. We are being told that his policies are actually being successful. We are told that we have a secure border. Let me tell you something: We have anything but a secure border when you have 5 million people who come across our border, all of them getting a free education. I am 300 miles away from the border. My district is Houston over to Louisiana. We have a school district there that is growing faster than just about any district in the country, and it is because of the influx of illegal aliens. We are mandated to not only provide them with healthcare but also with an education. This is an enormous burden on our people, the local governments, and the school districts that we have. This bill needs to be passed. I urge my colleagues very strongly to vote ``yes'' on this.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from Florida (Mrs. Cammack), my good friend, for having this Special Order. Mr. Speaker, for years our men and women in blue have endured relentless attacks by leftists who wish to see them defunded and abolished completely, incredible as it may seem, a sentiment so out of touch with reality that it is incomprehensible. What rational person would abolish the very force, that thin blue line that prevents mayhem and murder in our society? This incessant demonization has pushed police officers all across this great land to resign in record-breaking numbers. Why stay in a role where you are hated, you are targeted, and without the resources necessary to do your job? Especially when the past 3 years have proven that the Democratic Party actually celebrates lawlessness. Since actions have consequences, we are watching a tsunami of crime wash over our entire Nation. Yes, the radical Democrats have sown the wind, and now we are going to reap the whirlwind and are doing so now. Between their defund the police agenda and soft-on-crime policies, the left has created a system where criminals thrive and prosper instead of law-abiding citizens. Twenty-seven of the top thirty crime-ridden cities in the Nation are run by the Democratic Party. The crime rate in Washington, D.C., alone is up 24 percent. America is a nation of laws, not anarchy. We need our police officers who run toward the danger and the chaos. They put their lives on the line daily and deserve our full support and utmost respect and admiration. Today and every day, we must thank law enforcement for the courageous work that they do to keep us and our families safe. We must always back the blue.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, it is with a very heavy heart that I offer my prayers and sincerest gratitude to Ms. Jenn Wickre, a longtime staffer on House Science, Space, and Technology Committee. I had the honor of working with her under former Chairman Lamar Smith and now under Chairman Frank Lucas and their leadership. Jenn has been an integral part of the committee, and her departure will leave a void that will be absolutely impossible to fill. Over the years, my staff and I have grown very close to Jenn, often relying on her expertise and strong work ethic. We have traveled together on several very meaningful and informative codels, very interesting ones, and I have always appreciated Jenn's input to and her service on these wonderful trips that we have taken. She is reliable. She acts with thoughtfulness and has always been able to provide an insightful perspective in approaching policy. Throughout her time on the committee, Jenn has shown an unshakeable passion for serving our Nation and advocating for the goals of our Science, Space, and Technology Committee. Her professionalism and one-of-a-kind personality have left an enduring mark, and she will be greatly missed in the Halls of Congress. I am sure that I speak for many in expressing my very deepest appreciation for Jenn and her years of service and lasting contributions. She is a shining example, without question, of public service. Whether she knows it or not, she has made a significant difference in the lives of many Americans. We wish her and her family the very best during this time, and she is in our deepest prayers. I thank Jenn. We are praying for her, and may God bless her always.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Madam Speaker, I am here today to share a bittersweet message. Over 6 years ago, I interviewed Ms. Lauren Ziegler for the job of legislative assistant. I saw something rare and special in Lauren, and she proved it from her very first day on the job. As my colleagues will attest, Capitol Hill is overflowing with many talented people, but few possess the ability to do it all and to do it well and to do it with a smile, and that sums up Lauren Ziegler. Lauren rose from a junior L.A. position to become our legislative director and our deputy chief of staff. However, for me, her most significant role has been as one of my most trusted advisers. In truth, I can think of no one who has better advised me over the years. From day one, Lauren understood that our number one mission was to serve the needs and the interests of the good people of the Texas 36th Congressional District. I have received countless compliments from folks in Texas and here in Washington regarding the quality of her work. Frankly, I am shocked that no other office stole Lauren away from us. I am sure many have tried. Lauren's loyalty was true to the Babin team. She has served us and Texas' 36th District with all of her heart. For that, we are very grateful. Lauren's heart belongs to the Sunshine State. She will be returning home to Florida soon to continue serving our Nation in a different capacity at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. I have no doubt that, at NASA, Lauren Ziegler's rare and special qualities will contribute to their abilities to break barriers, explore the unknown, and send mankind back to the Moon and to places that we have never been before. I look forward to watching her future unfold down in Florida. I hope that Lauren will look back on her time here in Washington with as much fondness for us as we have for her. Lauren, you will always be part of Team Babin and an honorary member of the Babin family. I am very proud of you, and I am very proud to have been part of your history. Thank you for a job well done. God bless.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a beloved community leader, Pastor Dwight Allen Pruitt of Dayton, Texas, who passed away on February 23, 2023, at 62 years old. Pastor Pruitt was born on November 24, 1961, in Dayton, Texas, to the late Eural and Lois Lee Pruitt. As a young man, he was heavily influenced by his grandmother, Vester Lee Earls, who shared the gospel with him. Her testimony and lessons led him to accept Christ at an early age. In the early 1990s, Dwight felt called to enter ministry. While attending St. Miles Missionary Baptist Church in Ames, Texas, he preached his first sermon. In time, Pastor Pruitt was ordained and called to serve as Pastor of St. Miles Missionary Baptist Church, a congregation he led for nearly 13 years. In 2004, Pastor Pruitt obtained a Bachelor of Theology degree from the United Christian Theological Institution in Houston, Texas. During his tenure at St. Miles, he implemented Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and a prison outreach program, all of which still exist today and minister to the needs of Liberty County residents. In addition to his ministry, Pastor Pruitt was devoted to and an advocate for his community. After serving on the Dayton City Council from 2012 to 2017, he was elected again in 2022 and was a member until his passing. He was also a member of the Liberty County Hospital District No. 1 Board, the Dayton Community Development Corporation, the City of Dayton Park Board, and retired from the Liberty County Appraisal District. Mr. Speaker, it was a privilege to know and work with Pastor Dwight Pruitt. I will always appreciate his faith and leadership in our community, and my most sincere prayers remain with his family, friends, and church congregation during this difficult time.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Dr. Robert ``Bobby'' Garcia, a United States Air Force veteran, an esteemed educator, and a respected member of the community in Deer Park, Texas. Bobby passed away on March 3, 2023, at the age of 79. Bobby was born on March 2, 1944, in San Antonio, Texas, to Elias Garcia and Minerva Garcia. Several years after his father returned from World War II, the Garcia family relocated to the Houston area, settling in Bellaire, Texas. At the age of 17, Bobby obtained his barber license and spent his time outside of school working for his father at the Triangle Barber Shop. He stepped away from college and enlisted in the Air Force on January 24, 1966. He served three consecutive years overseas, which included time in England and Vietnam, where he was involved in the Mini Tet Offensive. When Bobby's tour of duty was over on July 10, 1969, he returned to Travis Air Force Base in California and received an honorable discharge. Following his military service, Bobby went back to college, earning a bachelor's and master's in education and a doctorate in philosophy. Throughout his 42 years in education, Bobby received numerous awards as an educator and touched the lives of countless students, parents, and colleagues. He was always ready to provide guidance and encouragement to others. In his retirement, Bobby served as Second Vice President for the Pasadena Area Retired School Educators and on the Deer Park Community Advisory Council. Outside of participating in church activities, Bobby focused on veteran outreach and was involved with organizations such as Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, Air Force Cyberspace and Air Traffic Control Association, Tan Son Nhut Association, and Vietnam Veterans of America. Bobby was a treasured resource for my staff and me, often working with us to ensure local veterans received their rightful benefits. He also served on my Service Academy selection panel for the last seven years. His service in the Air Force and decades in education provided us with an insight unlike any other as we evaluated and selected America's future military leaders. My staff and I will miss him dearly. However, I know we are not alone. Bobby's magnetic personality will be missed and remembered by all who had the pleasure of meeting him. He connected with others by sharing his stories, and he left behind a legacy of love, sacrifice, compassion, and wisdom. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Garcia: his brother, Daniel Garcia, and wife, Carol; his brother, David Garcia, and wife, Lisa; his daughter, Shelly Jaynes, and husband, Russell; his son, Thomas Garcia, and wife, Cindy; his son, Kevin Lee, and wife, Kristen; and his son, Ariel Pena. He also leaves behind six grandchildren, four great- grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Mr. Speaker, it is such a privilege to celebrate the life of a beloved community leader and my dear friend, Bobby Garcia. He would often quote, ``If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.'' I am certain that those of us who knew him will never be without a smile when remembering his commitment to God, his loved ones, and his friends, and my most sincere prayers remain with them at this time.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Madam Speaker, I appreciate very much my good colleague from Florida. Wow, very impressive, too, all those stats. Madam Speaker, I rise today and thank my fellow Texan (Mr. Roy) for this Special Order that we are going to do on our Texas Rangers' 200th anniversary. I rise today to celebrate one of our country's most storied law enforcement agencies, the Texas Rangers. Since its creation 200 years ago as a force to defend settlers on the frontier of Texas, the Rangers have been a central part of my State's rich, rich history. This group of remarkable men and women have seen their fair share of legends themselves. Men like John Coffee Hays, who helped tame the vast wilderness of Texas and protect settlers in the early days; John B. Jones, who brought law and order during a time when the West was still very wild; Frank Hamer, who took down the infamous Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. In fact, my district, the 36th Congressional District, which includes Houston over to Louisiana, is home to a few legendary Texas Rangers itself. Major James T. Thomas grew up in Newton, Texas, right down the road from my hometown of Woodville, Texas. He is the first known Texas Ranger to hold a doctoral degree and is a forensics expert. His fellow Rangers say that he is the epitome of what it means to be a Texas Ranger: a man who is devoted to his faith, to his wonderful wife, and is a great father to his children, and is a loyal friend and colleague. I am also proud to represent other legends of the Texas Rangers. Brandon Bess, is known for using modern techniques like genetic targeting to solve cold cases that are decades old. Texas Ranger Joe Haralson, is the longest-serving Ranger in history. It is a great privilege to represent heroes like these three men. Throughout history, the Texas Rangers have protected Presidents and dignitaries, captured bandits and burglars, and solved some of the most complicated criminal cases ever. They have always served their communities and the Lone Star State with distinction and bravery. Madam Speaker, I thank them for their dedicated service, and may God continue to bless the Texas Rangers and our beloved Lone Star State.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I really appreciate my very good friend and fellow Texan, Representative Weber, for this Special Order. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of the most important days in the history of this world, and that is Texas Independence Day. March 2 marks the day that 59 heroic Texians gathered at Washington-on-the- Brazos to ratify the Texas Declaration of Independence. We know that this freedom didn't come without great bloodshed at sites like Gonzales, the Alamo, Goliad, and San Jacinto. There is a painting of the Alamo right there. The fortitude of these men and the countless others who gave their lives is why the Lone Star State exists today, 187 years later. As a lifelong student of history and a former member of the Texas Historical Commission, I am incredibly proud to represent the San Jacinto Battleground here in my district, in the 36th District of Texas, where a Texian army, under General Sam Houston, officially secured independence following a defining battle at San Jacinto that lasted a mere 18 minutes amid cries of ``Remember the Alamo.'' The Republic of Texas reigned as an independent nation for 9 years before being admitted into the United States as the 28th State of the Union. Since its addition, Texas has flourished as one of the most prominent States in the country, emerging as a leader in many vital sectors, including agriculture, space exploration, military readiness, technology, tourism, and much more. Our State is also home to many of the Nation's top medical centers. I went to school at one, Texas Medical Center. Texas leads in energy production. In fact, it creates twice as much energy as the next highest State in the Union. In fact, as its own country today, Texas would be among the top 10 largest economies in the entire world. It is simply remarkable and no wonder why Texans have so much pride. After all, everything in Texas is bigger and better. We Texans don't like to brag. We just tell the truth; it just sounds like we are bragging. I believe that those who envisioned what Texas could be so long ago would be absolutely and mighty pleased to see how far we have come. To all of my fellow Texans, I say happy Independence Day. May God continue to bless our beloved Lone Star State.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from California for this Special Order. I appreciate it very much. Predictably, the President spent 72 minutes trying to sell us another bill of goods last night. He is so out of touch with reality that he thinks Americans are actually buying what he said. But his time would have been much better spent apologizing to the country for being one of the weakest, if not the weakest, Commander in Chief in the history of our country. From his botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, to his mismanagement of the economy, to his horrific border crisis, Joe Biden is a President of failure. In just 2 years, he has successfully made us less on all fronts, less profitable, less sustainable, less safe, less prosperous, less free. His consistent weakness on the world stage has emboldened our adversaries and sent our allies running. I don't say this lightly. You don't have to look hard for examples. The Chinese surveillance balloon that he allowed to fly across country, our entire country, last week, comes to mind. It took him 4 days to shoot it down and, yet he wants us to believe that he is being tough on China. Give me a break. The world is full of wolves. They know America is being led by a sheep. President Biden spoke for over an hour, and yet he failed to thank our Border Patrol agents, mention border security, or take responsibility for the thousands of Americans dying from fentanyl that is being smuggled across our open and erased southern border. Instead, he called for mass amnesty for millions of illegal aliens. Nearly 300 Americans die of an overdose every single day. That is almost as many as our daily casualties during World War II. Think about that. But if we are being honest, we all expected nothing more than a speech that left truth waiting on the sidelines. That is exactly what we got. House Republicans have done more to restore and strengthen America in our first month in power than the Democrats have done in the last 2 years because where the left prioritizes authoritarian-style control, Republicans believe in the freedom that our forebears fought and died for. As Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders so eloquently said last night, ``America is the greatest country the world has ever known because we are the freest country that the world has ever known.'' We don't bend to a woke mob pushing insanity or insane policies over common sense. Republicans serving in this esteemed Chamber stand united and will be the hammer that shatters the Democrats' radical agenda. We are committed to ensuring America is secure and is strong, and is free. This is a promise that we will keep. We will not leave you in the lurch. We are fighting for you and the American Dream that we all love.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, not many have tasted true freedom like Americans have because, in all of the world, there is no place like the United States of America. But if we are not careful, this unique experiment that has persevered through depression, famine, sickness, terrorism, world wars, and a civil war will disappear before our very eyes. The French philosopher Montesquieu wrote that ``the deterioration of every government begins with the decay of the principles upon which it was founded.'' This statement is as true today as it was in 1748. Right now, we are literally witnessing the decay of our freedoms of speech. For years, we have watched one political party silence and discredit those they disagree with by de-platforming them, censoring them, shadow-banning them, and suppressing their ability to reach the public. We have seen this tactic used against duly elected Members of Congress, professionals in countless fields, conservative media outlets like Newsmax and OAN, and even a sitting President. The endless kowtowing to a political faction with an agenda so radical that you either have to bend the knee or be exiled goes against the very fabric of our Constitution. It is un-American, and it is a disgrace. The left treats debate or, God forbid, even a simple difference of thought, as public enemy number one. Why is our freedom of speech so threatening to the democratic narrative? We cannot stand idle while our freedoms are being extinguished. As President Reagan said, ``freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.'' I don't want my 17 grandchildren to spend their sunset years telling their children and their children's children what it was once like in the United States, when men and women were free. We must ensure that America remains that beacon of hope, the city on a hill, a nation with a dream that anyone can grasp if they only have the courage to dare.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate an exceptional public servant. NASA Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche, on receiving the prestigious Quasar Award for Economic Development Excellence from the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership (BAHEP). BAHEP presents its renowned Quasar Award to an outstanding elected official or business leader who has demonstrated a strong and continual effort to support the business foundations of the greater Bay Area Houston communities. Serving as the 13th Director of Johnson Space Center (JSC), Vanessa Wyche oversees the home of America's astronaut corps, Mission Control Center, International Space Station, Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory, Orion and Gateway programs, and the more than 11,000 civil servants and contractors in Houston and the White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Among her many responsibilities, Wyche manages a broad range of human spaceflight activities, including the development and operation of human spacecraft, commercialization of low-Earth orbit, and JSC's role in landing the next American on the surface of the Moon. Under her leadership, JSC was recognized by Forbes and Statista as the number one best employer among Texas' major employers. Vanessa previously served as deputy director at JSC for 3 years, starting in 2018. Her previous leadership positions include assistant and acting deputy director of JSC, director of the Exploration Integration and Science Directorate, flight manager of several missions of the Space Shuttle Program, executive officer in the Office of the NASA Administrator, and led several other center-level technical and program organizations. Prior to joining NASA, Vanessa worked for the Food and Drug Administration in Washington, D.C. Director Wyche is a native of South Carolina. where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and a Master of Science in Bioengineering from Clemson University. In 2019, she was inducted into the Thomas Green Clemson Academy of Engineers and Scientists at Clemson University. As a dedicated advocate for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, Vanessa serves as a member of Clemson University's College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences advisory board, the University of Houston's C. T. Bauer College of Business advisory panel, and is a past chair of the Space Center Houston board of directors. Additionally, she received an Honorary Doctorate of Science degree from Coastal Carolina University in 2022. Throughout her distinguished career, Vanessa bas been recognized for her outstanding service. She is the recipient of the Presidential Rank Award, 2 NASA Outstanding Leadership Medals, 2 NASA Achievement Medals, a JSC Innovation award, a Woman at NASA award, a Rotary Stellar Nomination, a national Women Worth Watching honoree, and a Coastal Carolina University Inspiring Woman nomination. Vanessa is an American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Associate Fellow and completed the International Women's Forum Fellows Program. Vanessa Wyche is married to George Wyche Jr., Esq., and has one son, George Wyche III. It is a distinct honor to congratulate my friend, Vanessa Wyche, for receiving the esteemed Quasar Award. She is an outstanding leader who has served both the Bay Area and America's space program exceptionally. I look forward to our continued work to take us back to the Moon, and in the near future, Mars. Onward and upward.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th anniversary of the incorporation of the City of Baytown, located in both Harris and Chambers Counties, Texas. Present-day Baytown was incorporated on January 24, 1948, combining the communities of Goose Creek, Pelly, and Baytown. Baytown is situated on the Texas Gulf Coast and is home to several of America's critical waterways: the Galveston Bay system, the Houston Ship Channel, and the Port of Cedar Bayou. It also shares the bay with the San Jacinto State Historic Site and San Jacinto Monument, where Texas gained its independence from Mexico in 1836. Early settlers of Baytown assisted the Texian Army during the Runaway Scrape. Pioneers arrived in the area in the early 19th century and became known for rice farming and, later, brickmaking due to the high-quality clay found in the region. Over the course of a century, up to 12 million bricks a year were made at Cedar Bayou and shipped to Galveston. Baytown, and the surrounding region, are known worldwide as innovators in the petrochemical industry. In 1908, the Goose Creek Oilfield became Texas's first offshore drilling operation and paved the way for significant growth and development. During World War II, the research conducted at the Baytown Refinery contributed to producing essentials like 100-octane fuel used in planes. Today, Exxon's Baytown Refinery is among the largest in the United States. Over the decades, many other leaders in the petrochemical industry have established a significant presence in Baytown and nearby communities. In addition to its industrial history, Baytown has long been committed to preserving the region's natural resources: saltwater and freshwater fishing, native marshland habitats, and waterfowl migration paths. The following men have served the citizens of Baytown as Mayor: E.D. Cleveland; J.A. Ward; R.H. Pruett; Al Clayton; C.L. Liggett, MD; Seaborn Cravey; C. Glen Walker; Tom Gentry; Emmett O. Hutto; Allen Cannon; Pete C. Alfaro; Calvin Mundinger; Stephen H. DonCarlos; and Brandon Capetillo, who currently serves as Mayor. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to recognize and celebrate the 75th anniversary of Baytown. May God bless this town and its citizens even more richly over the next 75 years.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I really appreciate Chris Smith, and I thank the gentlewoman from Minnesota (Mrs. Fischbach) for having this Special Order. Mr. Speaker, today, as we mourn the millions of babies lost because of the decision in Roe v. Wade 53 years ago, we also celebrate the millions that will be saved now because that decision has been overturned. Tragically, Mr. Speaker, my Democratic colleagues would rather spread lies about the Supreme Court decision than to tell the truth. They want to deceive you into believing that Republicans don't care about women's health--that is crazy--even as they enable and encourage biological men to use women's bathrooms and to compete in women's sports, and they are content to simply watch pro-abortion thugs attack and burn pregnancy centers and churches around the country. They may refuse the truth because it doesn't further their anti-life agenda, but they can't change it. The truth is that the reversal of Roe v. Wade returned the power to where it belongs, and that is to States. So today I celebrate that decision, I pray for those taken, and I renew my promise to never surrender the fight for our unborn. I will always defend the voiceless, and I will always stand for life.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 23, H. Res. 5.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my friend and longtime community leader, John Moon Sr. of Pasadena, Texas, who passed away on December 7, 2022. John was born on August 19, 1937, in Van Buren, Arkansas, to Benjamin and Alma Moon. He married the love of his life, Rose A. Moon, on August 16, 1958. They had two sons: John Moon Jr. and Randall Moon. John became a Certified Public Accountant at the age of 21, one of the youngest in Texas history. He was soon hired by Texas Eastern Transmission and relocated his family to Houston. Several years later, he accepted an opportunity at the Houston Research Center and eventually became a bank owner. In 1970, John was invited to join the Rotary Club of Pasadena. Since that time, he has never missed a meeting. John was the epitome of a Rotarian, serving the community with leadership and compassion. In 1973, John was named ``Outstanding Young Man of the Year'' by the Pasadena Junior Chamber of Commerce. Nearly 20 years later, he was named the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce's ``Citizen of the Year'' and was eventually inducted into the Pasadena Hall of Fame. John's devotion to his community was truly remarkable. Over the years, he held positions on the Harris County Industrial Commission, Sam Houston Parkway Transportation Corp., San Jacinto River Authority, and Harris County Economic Development Council. John's civic and philanthropic work for Pasadena and Harris Counties remains unmatched. He exemplified the Rotary motto, ``Service Above Self.'' Madam Speaker, it is a privilege to honor my friend, John Moon Sr. I know this is something he would have cherished. My most sincere prayers are being sent to his family and friends during this difficult time.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tens of thousands of veterans who served on radar stations across the world during the Cold War. From 1947 to 1991, American servicemembers faced extremely challenging climates and conditions in the most isolated locations to successfully mitigate threats from the Soviet Union to ensure the maintenance of peace. These veterans were highly trained and from every United States military branch, including the National Guard and Reserve units. They were also supported by allied forces and civilians, as well. These brave watch guards were on a mission of the utmost importance to detect, track, intercept, and destroy hostile airborne intruders when they entered the free world airspace. Although the protection of allied airspace was successful following the end of the Cold War, the United States never officially recognized the countless hours of surveillance that these servicemembers provided to our country and the world. Several years ago, a dedicated group of Air Force Cold War-era radar station veterans formed a nonprofit organization to raise funds for the construction of a monument commemorating their fellow servicemembers' sacrifices. The monument was unveiled on November 7, 2019, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, with some 100 veterans and their family members in attendance. Today, I thank these veterans for their service during such a tense and a turbulent time in our history. Their dedication to our security and the prosperity of peace never wavered an iota. As a veteran stationed in Germany during the Cold War, I can relate to many of the sacrifices that these courageous individuals made, and I am forever grateful for them. I include in the Record a letter by one of the United States Air Force Radar Station Veterans Monument Association founders, 1st Lieutenant James E. Muecke, which contains more information about the hard work that went into making the dream of a monument into a reality. Radar Station Veterans Monument Several years ago, three Air Force veterans who served on various radar stations during the Cold War began discussing how to honor their service and others who held the same job. A monument was suggested, but they lacked funding and a location. Washington, D.C., was thought to be the most obvious location choice, but given how long it took to construct the World War II Memorial, they decided to look elsewhere. After many discussions with their fellow veterans, they formed a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization called the United States Air Force (USAF) Radar Station Veterans Monument Association. Five veterans volunteered to serve as officers for the association, and 26 agreed to become board members. Once the association was formed, donations were sought from many Cold War-era manufacturers and suppliers of radar equipment. Unfortunately, most were out of business or had merged with other companies. As a result, the association contacted as many radar station veterans as possible to ask for their donations for the monument. Eventually, the National Museum of the United States Air Force at Wright- Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, was selected as the location for the monument's placement. The museum indicated that the project would cost approximately $30,000. After much aid from their fellow veterans, they raised $43,000. When designing the monument, their goal was to educate the public in an appealing way. They decided on a monument made from black granite stone, with images of 23 radar sites etched into it. A mission statement and description of the radar station operating conditions were inscribed on the front, and a globe sat on top, symbolizing worldwide involvement. The monument was completed and placed in section two of Memorial Park at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. The dedication ceremony was held on November 7, 2019, with some 100 veterans and family members in attendance. It was an outstanding program; the Air Force honor guard members gave a flag presentation. After the program, the USAF Radar Station Veterans Monument Association members formally turned the monument over to the museum. Following the ceremony, an evening banquet was held, and the association's officers were recognized for their work in commissioning the monument. They received a standing ovation. All officers were presented with a framed picture of the monument, the USAF Radar Station Veterans Monument Association's logo, and a statement of appreciation. This is just one example of what it means to be a United States veteran: We are loyal, are proud to have served this great country, and can still stand tall for a monument dedicated to this purpose. We give a proud hand salute to all who attended, to those who could not attend because of distance or health, and especially to those who served but are no longer with us. 1st. Lt. James E. Muecke.

Mr. BABIN. May God bless these heroes and may history remember them.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievements of Patrick ``Hawk'' Hardy and express my sincere gratitude for his service to our Nation. Although he is now a resident of Kountze, Texas, Patrick was born in Port Arthur, Texas, on June 14, 1949. Patrick, known by many as ``Hawk,'' and I first met when we were children. In our youth, we made wonderful memories playing football together. After graduating from French High School, in Beaumont, Texas, in 1968, Hawk enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He bravely served from 1968 to 1970, earning the rank of sergeant. Former Secretary of the Navy, William K. Jones, stated the following citation while awarding Hawk with the Navy Commendation Medal: For meritorious service, while serving with the Second Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division in connection with the combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from 20 September 1969 to 11 September 1970. Throughout this period, Sergeant Hardy performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Following initial assignment to Company H, he was reassigned as Team Leader of the Marine Liaison Team with the Fifth Battalion. Republic of Korea Marine Corps. Participating in several major combat operations, he repeatedly distinguished himself by his courage and composure under fire. Particularity noteworthy were Sergeant Hardy's achievements on 21 July 1970 as he skillfully coordinated the maneuver of United States Marines and Korean Marines, thereby enabling them to close on an enemy force attempting to cross the Vinh Dien River and kill ten enemy soldiers. Displaying exceptional initiative and resourcefulness, he organized and supervised a training program for personnel in his section, which increased their individual proficiency and enhanced the combat effectiveness of his unit. As a result of his diligent and resourceful efforts throughout his tour in the Republic of Vietnam, the operational effectiveness of his unit was greatly enhanced. By his initiative, superb professionalism, and loyal devotion to duty, Sergeant Hardy earned the respect of all who served with him and upheld the finest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. Hawk attended Lamar University in Beaumont, graduating with an associate degree in law enforcement and a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. He worked as a deputy sheriff in Harris County from 1971 to 1981. In May of 1981, he earned his Doctor of Jurisprudence. Hawk served as a criminal investigator and First Assistant Prosecutor in Hardin, Jasper, and Tyler counties. He was a county attorney for Tyler County in 1984 and later served as the Tyler County District Attorney from 1985 to 1990. Hawk also served as a criminal investigator in Kaunnan County and was appointed as the Assistant Prosecutor. Hawk has been a student of taekwondo since the age of 16. However, in the 1970s, he also made a name for himself on the karate circuit, winning numerous titles and awards. He reached professional status after claiming the 1975 U.S. Karate Championship title. From 2000 to 2008, he competed extensively in Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournaments worldwide, winning 21 gold medals, four silver medals, and seven bronze medals. In 2004, he was the legendary Royce Gracie's first Black Belt, which Hawk stated was his proudest moment in martial arts. Hawk still holds a Black Belt in taekwondo, tang soo do, and Gracie jiu-jitsu, as well as a 5th degree in Shotokan. Madam Speaker, it is a great pleasure to honor my friend Patrick ``Hawk'' Hardy. His love for our country is evident in his patriotic service and diligence in protecting and defending it. He is one-of-a-kind.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of Ben Ogletree, Jr. Ben was born on October 6, 1938, in Livingston, Texas. He graduated from Livingston High School in 1956 and married the love of his life, Janice Helen Clark, on January 31, 1958. Ben graduated in the class of 1960 from the University of Texas, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business administration with a focus on industrial management. He spent the next 25 years overseeing his family's land, timber, and wood products business. In 1970, East Texas Bancshares, Inc., a bank holding company, elected Ben to serve on their Board of Directors and Executive Committee. As a devoted public servant, he also sat on the Livingston City Council for 32 years, spending 22 of those years as mayor of Livingston. In 1985, Ben became president and Chief Executive Officer of First State Bank. Later, he served as Chairman of the Board for both First State Bank and East Texas Bancshares, Inc. To recognize his years of outstanding service to the community, Polk County named him 1989's Polk Countian of the Year. In 1991, Ben graduated from Southern Methodist University's Southwestern Graduate School of Banking. After a long career in business, Ben retired in 2005. However, he still serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors for First State Bank. In addition to Ben's earnest commitment to his community, he is also incredibly passionate about flying and has held a commercial pilot's license for more than 50 years with ratings for multi-engine, instrument, and flight instructor. Ben continues to put the needs of others first while enjoying cherished hobbies like hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. He is the father of three, grandfather to eight, and great-grandfather to five. Madam Speaker, it is a great privilege to honor my friend, Ben Ogletree, Jr., who has faithfully and humbly served his community, our state, and our Nation.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend. Both of these guys are great friends. This is a great tribute today to a great man. No one is more well-known in the conservative world than Judge Louie Gohmert. I am very grateful to have served with him as my brother in the Texas delegation for the last 8 years since I was elected. It is no secret that Louie is a speaker of truth and a fighter for our freedoms. He is unapologetic in his principles and a true defender of the United States Constitution. As President Trump said: Louie has guts. He is as tough as hell. Isn't that the truth? But he is more than that. He is also a man of integrity, a veteran, a judge, a historian, a Bible scholar, a really fair preacher, a husband, and a father. Judge Gohmert is my neighbor to the north. He represents the First District of Texas, and I represent the last district, the 36th District. That is changing as we have had redistricting, but I like to tell people that. He has fought tirelessly to preserve and protect our border and prosper the State of Texas. In a judiciary hearing a few months ago, Louie quoted the author George Orwell saying, ``Free speech is my right to say what you don't want to hear.'' What a fitting quote for our friend, Louie Gohmert. You can count on Louie to be truthful. Sometimes he says what you don't want him to say. But he says it if he believes it. He is a man of integrity, and he stands his ground. You can count on Louie Gohmert to be bold, and you can count on Louis to be fearless. There will be a great hole in this august body here without Louie Gohmert. I imagine that it will really never be filled in the same way that it was. In a recent Louie Hour, my friend closed his time on the floor with following words, and I would like to do the same. I continue to have hope that springs eternal in the human breast that we don't and won't lose the greatest freedom, the greatest country, and the greatest gift of a country any people has ever received, and that it will not be our generation that sees it lost. May God bless Louie Gohmert and his family. We will miss him.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I wish to thank my good friend from Colorado (Mr. Lamborn) for having this Special Order for National Bible Week. Mr. Speaker, I am elated to recognize National Bible Week once again and to share why God's Word is such an immovable pillar, not only in my life, but millions and millions of people's. From guidance and encouragement to past lessons and future promises, the Bible holds the answers to all of it. Our nation is in the midst of a moral and spiritual war currently, the likes of which we have never seen. The rule of law is being trampled. Men compete in women's sports. Child pornography is used to sell clothing. Babies continue to be murdered, even after a botched abortion. Now more than ever, the direction of God's Word is crucial. As we maneuver through these woke and morally corrupt times, I pray that we, as a country, the great United States of America, the shining city on a hill, would find our way back to the teachings of Scripture. America would not even exist today had God's divine providence and written word not stirred the hearts of our Founding Fathers 246 years ago. Only a fool would think that our Nation could ever survive without God. I will close with a biblical passage, and I pray that we remember Proverbs 3:5-6: ``Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.''

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my dear friend, Phil McClure, of Warren, Texas, who passed away on Monday. October 31, 2022, at the age of 70. Phil was born in Beaumont, Texas, on December 27, 1951, to Thomas Lindburg and Tressie Mae Droddy McClure. He graduated from Kirby High School in Woodville, Texas, and was a member of the 1969 District Champion football team. As a young man, Phil was very active in Future Farmers of America and attained Eagle Scout rank, the highest achievement the Boy Scouts of America offer. Phil owned and operated McClure Furniture Store in Woodville for many years, working as a licensed real estate broker on the side. My wife, Roxanne, and I purchased our first home from him when we moved to Woodville after I separated from the United States Air Force. He loved being involved in his community and devoted countless hours serving in the Woodville Volunteer Fire Department, the Woodville Lion's Club, and the First Baptist Church of Warren. Phil graciously hosted my congressional staff at his beautiful Cypress Creek Ranch, sharing his passion for wildlife management, the great outdoors, and hunting with each of them. Madam Speaker, it is a special privilege to recognize my friend, Phil McClure. My most sincere prayers remain with his friends and loved ones during this difficult time.

Mr. BABIN

Mr. BABIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of my friend, Senator Larry Taylor, who admirably served two decades in the Texas Legislature as State Representative for House District 24 from 2003 to 2013 and as State Senator for Senate District 11 from 2013 to today. Senator Taylor will retire after a distinguished career at the end of this current session in early 2023. Senator Taylor was raised in Friendswood, Texas, and is a lifelong Texan and Baylor University graduate. He and his wife, Kerri, have three children and five grandchildren. Senator Taylor formerly owned Truman Taylor Insurance Agency in Friendswood, an independent agency started by his father more than 50 years ago. Senator Taylor served five sessions in the Texas House of Representatives before his election to the State Senate. During the 82nd Legislature, Representative Taylor served on the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission, a 12-member body made up of legislators and members of the public who are appointed by the Lieutenant Governor and the Speaker of the House of Representatives and are tasked with identifying and eliminating waste, duplication, and inefficiency for more than 130 Texas state agencies. As a House member, he also served on the following committees: Elections, Insurance, Voter Identification and Fraud Select Committee, Windstorm Insurance Oversight, Emergency Preparedness Select Committee, Special Purpose Districts Select Committee, Ways and Means, Appropriations, Calendars, Hurricane Ike Storm Devastation to the Texas Gulf Coast Select Committee, Property Tax Relief and Appraisal Reform Select Committee, Business and Industry, House Administration, Health Insurance Risk Pool Deficit, Windstorm Coverage and Budgetary Impact, and Public Health. Senator Taylor has served five sessions in the Texas State Senate and spent four of those sessions as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education. He also served as Chair of the Senate Finance Article III working group and was a member of the important Budget Conference Committee, a select group chosen to ensure that legislators passed a balanced budget. Additionally, he is a member of the Legislative Budget Board, a permanent joint committee responsible for developing budget and policy recommendations for legislative appropriations. Senator Taylor has served on the following Senate committees: Education, Finance, Future of College Sports in Texas Select Committee, Higher Education, Ports Select Committee, Veteran Affairs, Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs, Coastal Barrier System, Mass Violence Prevention and Community Safety Select Committee, Texas Commission on Public School Finance, Cruise Industry Development, Business and Commerce, Intergovernmental Relations, State Real Property Data Collection, Reporting and Assessment Select Committee, Government Organization, Health and Human Services, Education Policy for a Skilled Workforce, Texas Lottery and Texas Lottery Commission, and Violence in Schools and School Security Select Committee. In 2020, Senator Taylor was named ``Galvestonian of the Year'' by the Galveston Chamber of Commerce. Two years later, he was given the 2022 inaugural ``Senator Larry Taylor Champion of Education'' award by the League City Chamber of Commerce for his tireless advocacy on behalf of Texas students and teachers. He currently serves on the board of Hope Village, a residential and day program for people with developmental disabilities, and as the Director and Chairman of the Board for Texan Bank. He is also President of the Texas Conservative Coalition Research Institute Board. Madam Speaker, I would like to commend my good friend Senator Larry Taylor for his many years of faithful service and dedication to the State of Texas, his constituents, and the education of countless Texans. I would also like to congratulate him on an outstanding career and wish him, his wife, Kerri, and their family the best in his retirement and future endeavors.