Jack Bergman

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I oppose this amendment. The Unfunded Priorities List is critical for services to convey their needs to adequately capture emerging requirements. The budgets submitted through an annual budgeting process are constructed over the course of a year, but combat is a daily evolution. Adversaries are really not concerned about our budgeting process. As someone who has been responsible for creating a significantly broad military budget, I know the challenges in planning for future fights while recognizing the fluidity and uncertainty surrounding current operations. UFRs allow services to convey to Congress which budget sacrifices were made and the associated consequences. More importantly, the Armed Services Committee rightfully added the Chief of the National Guard Bureau to the UFR's list this year. This amendment would strike that language and impede the Guard in adjusting for the unexpected. Undercutting the National Guard in a year in which they have been asked to do so much for our country is not--I repeat not--a wise course of action. This amendment should not be supported, and I urge my colleagues to vote ``no.''

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize May 22nd as National Maritime Day. On this occasion, we are especially proud of Michigan's status as a maritime industry powerhouse, which we owe to the many men and women who drive commerce on our beautiful Great Lakes. According to the American Maritime Partnership, this industry provides Michigan's economy with an annual $2.8 billion, in addition to $703.6 million in worker income and 12,140 jobs. Michigan's First District features more coastline than any other congressional district in the contiguous United States, and is home to the Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Traverse City, which continues to supply our waterways with the next generation of Merchant Marine officers. We have no shortage of reasons to celebrate this day and the proud maritime traditions of the Great Lakes. While the circumstances of today and our nation's fight against the coronavirus make it difficult for anyone to participate in festivities, National Maritime Day 2020 is celebrated in spirit by our brave essential workers who are--at this moment--navigating ships, running ports, and operating locks. And as of this month, there are now those who are building a new lock in the Soo Locks complex. This historic milestone, as well as the jobs, growth, and security that will come with the new lock's completion, are well worth celebrating on this commemorative day. Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in honoring National Maritime Day and the millions of individuals across the Great Lakes who maintain our national security by keeping our nation's economic engine running, even in these most trying times.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act. Less than a month ago, I stood on this floor and urged my colleagues to support our small businesses by passing the CARES Act. Today, I am here again asking the House to pass this bill and get it to the President's desk so we can give our small businesses and healthcare providers the additional assistance they need. This bill provides an extra $75 billion to our hospitals and $25 billion for expanded testing capacity, with resources specifically set aside for community health centers and rural health clinics. These additional funds will have a dramatic impact in rural areas like Michigan's First District, where access to testing has lagged and our rural healthcare facilities are struggling to keep their doors open. This legislation also refills the Paycheck Protection Program, critical for the Upper Peninsula and northern Michigan's small businesses. This temporary, targeted relief is our opportunity to send a strong message to our Main Street businesses that we want them to be able to open their doors when it is time to open our economy back up. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. This legislation takes major steps to support American workers and families during this unprecedented time. It provides increased funding to get our healthcare workers essential supplies and equipment. It also helps small businesses that have been asked to close their doors and sacrifice their livelihoods for everyone's health and safety. This bill is not perfect. I am disappointed that we are paying for things that don't have anything to do with COVID-19, and I am concerned about inadvertent damage we may be doing to our seasonal businesses by incentivizing people to stay at home rather than going back to work once shelter-in-place restrictions are lifted. Small, seasonal businesses are the lifeblood of Michigan's First District, and, as we implement this policy, I will do everything I can to prevent unintended consequences from happening. The people of Michigan's First District are resilient. We have survived hardships before, and we will again. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the life of Ronald Edward Knott, who passed away at the age of 73 after a lifetime of service to his fellow Americans. Through his extreme courage and selflessness, Ronald became an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. Ronald was born on September 24, 1946. Upon graduating from Walled Lake High School, Ronald joined the United States Airforce, where he served two tours in Vietnam as a mechanic. Following his military service, Ron married his wife Dawn and began a career at General Motors. Ron retired from GM in 1987 and moved to Mio, where he and Dawn opened Knott's Dairy Barn. Throughout his professional career and into retirement, Ron's dedication to service remained stronger than ever-- including service as Commander of the Wixom VFW Post 3952 and the Mio VFW Post 4126. Ron also served as Historian for Mio American Legion Post 348 and as Southeast Michigan District Commander. Ron passed away on February 5, 2020. He is missed dearly by his family and friends, and his legacy will undoubtedly live on for generations for come. Ronald's tireless devotion to the public good touched the lives of countless Michiganders, and the impact of his work cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in honoring the life of Ronald Edward Knott. His legacy will forever live on in his family and through the countless lives he bettered through his service.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I give special thanks to the chairman and ranking member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee because we are here for the right reasons, and that is to serve veterans and enable them to be productive in their lives after their service to our country. My bill, H.R. 561, the Protecting Business Opportunities for Veterans Act, gives the VA the tools it needs to fix a persistent problem in contracting that is labeled improper passthroughs. These abuses occur when a small business obtains a contract under set-aside award conditions, but gives all, or substantially all, of the work to a large company while collecting profit for doing absolutely nothing. This practice has long been prohibited by law and wastes taxpayer dollars, but, unfortunately, in reality, agencies up until this point have had little ability to stop it. As a veteran and a small business owner myself, I know how much work and dedication goes into building a successful company. The VA provides unparalleled opportunities for veteran-owned small businesses, but these opportunities are, unfortunately, wasted when unethical companies exploit loopholes to rip off the American taxpayer. I am very proud of VA's Vets First Program which directed contracts worth $6.3 billion to veteran-owned small businesses last year alone. However, bad actors have been taking away contracts from law-abiding veteran business owners in the Vets First Program for way too long. My bill, the Protecting Business Opportunities for Veterans Act, requires all bidders on these contracts to certify that they will perform the percentage of work that the law already requires. The bill also directs the VA to work with the Office of the Inspector General in a more effective way to find, stop, and, where appropriate, punish these improper passthroughs. H.R. 561 addresses the gaps in implementation of existing law without adding new bureaucracy at the VA. I repeat: no additional new bureaucracy at the VA. Madam Speaker, I strongly urge all my colleagues to support H.R. 561.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, on Roll Call Votes No. 33 and No. 34, I am not recorded because I was absent from the House of Representatives. Had I been present, I would have voted: ``nay'' on rollcall No. 33 and ``nay'' on rollcall No. 34.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Steven H. Perdue for receiving the 2019 Distinguished Service Award from Traverse Connect. Through his exceptional leadership and steadfast devotion to his community, Steve has become an indispensable part of Northern Michigan. Since 1929, the Distinguished Service Award has been given to leaders who have had a tremendously positive impact on the Traverse City area. Through his decades of service to his community, Steve has shown himself to be more than deserving of this honor. Founded in 1974, Grand Traverse Industries (GTI) provides comprehensive services for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As President and CEO of GTI, Steven has led these efforts since 1980. His exceptional work has helped thousands of persons with disabilities in the Grand Traverse Area find meaningful employment. Steve's selflessness has been previously recognized on multiple occasions, for instance receiving the 2007 Sara Hardy Humanitarian of the Year Award from the City of Traverse City. Outside of his work at GTI, Steve has served in a variety of leadership roles in the Idaho Special Olympics, the Idaho and Michigan State Trade Associations, the TC Area Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Council, and the Traverse Bay Economic Development Corporation. He also serves on the Board of SourceAmerica, a national nonprofit that creates job opportunities for those with disabilities. The impact of Steve's work on the people of Michigan cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate Steven H. Perdue for receiving the 2019 Distinguished Service Award. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a selfless leader. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Steve all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Tim Petrosky for his service at CMS Energy. Through his exceptional leadership and steadfast devotion to the public good, Tim has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District. Tim first joined CMS Energy as the spokesman for Big Rock Point Nuclear Power Plant in 1991. This historic power plant in Charlevoix, first opened in 1962, was the first nuclear power plant in the state of Michigan, the fifth oldest in the nation, and is designated as a Nuclear Historic Landmark by the American Nuclear Soceity. While Big Rock Point was decommissioned in 1997, Tim's work as spokesperson continued. This included accompanying a large piece of radioactive equipment by rail car to a southern U.S. storage site by rail--giving him the nickname ``Boxcar Tim.'' In 2005, Tim became NW Area Manager, Community Affairs, where he was responsible for media, communication, and community activities in three counties of the northwest Lower Peninsula. In this capacity, Tim has helped CMS Energy communicate and hear from the public--helping reach those in need during winter power outages, working with local communities to promote public safety and environmental protection, and hearing from members of the community on issues that matter most to them. With today's ever-evolving world, the work of industry leaders like Tim has been critical in supporting the common good an ensuring the public trust. His impact on the state of Michigan cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate Tim Petrosky for his decades of service at CMS Energy. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a dedicated leader. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Tim all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the Articles of Impeachment against President Trump. I believe all American people need to be looked in the eye by all their Representatives. Today is the culmination of the Democrats' 3-year-long quest to delegitimize the President. This has been in the works since November 2016 and was all but promised when the Democrats took the majority. This sham process began without a formal vote in the House and was continued over these past several months, willfully trampling on decades of bipartisan precedent--no due process; closed-door depositions, even though nothing in this investigation was classified; and leaking only details that fit their narrative. If this isn't partisan politics, I don't know what is. Holding our elected officials accountable is a job I take extremely seriously, but the impeachment votes today represent the worst of Washington, D.C., yet another reason my constituents are so disillusioned with the process and disappointed by the 116th Congress. Michigan's First District sent me to Washington to get things done, to get the government off their backs, and to help rural Michiganians and other people around the country keep more of their hard-earned currency, not to impeach our duly elected President. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote against the Articles of Impeachment. I

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the 50th Anniversary of the Great Lakes Maritime Academy. Through its commitment to excellence and dedication to its students, GLMA has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District. Founded in 1969, the Great Lakes Maritime Academy is one of only six maritime academies in the United States. The first cadets of the academy received an associate degree and a license allowing for service on the Great Lakes upon graduation. In the 1980s, GLMA partnered with Ferris State University to allow cadets to earn bachelor's degrees, opening opportunities for graduates to serve in the United States Navy and Coast Guard. In 2012, thanks to the dedicated efforts of President Nelson and other public leaders, Governor Snyder signed legislation allowing community colleges to award bachelor's degrees in disciplines including maritime technology. This change allowed GLMA to partner with Northwestern Michigan College and enabled cadets to earn a bachelor's degree at a fraction of the cost. The work of the Great Lakes Maritime Academy is essential for providing the next generation of Merchant Marine officers with the education, training, and credentials needed to serve on the Great Lakes and the high seas. Piloting everything from cruise ships and ferries to tankers and cargo ships, graduates of GLMA play an essential role in supporting our economy, national security, and everyday lives. The impact of their work on the people of Michigan and the United States cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, Michigan's proud maritime history is continued every day by the students, graduates, faculty, and leaders of the Great Lakes Maritime Academy, and it is my honor to congratulate them for fifty years of excellence. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such dedicated citizens. On behalf of my constituents, I wish GLMA all the best as it ventures into the future.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Command Master Chief Petty Officer Alvin J. Veenstra for his retirement from the Navy Reserves Seabees. Through his more than thirty years of excellence and commitment to service, CMDCM Veenstra has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District. The United States Naval Construction Battalions, more commonly known as the Navy Seabees, have a storied history in the United States Armed Forces--stretching from Normandy and Okinawa to Iraq and Afghanistan. Alvin decided to follow in this tradition of service early in his life, enlisting in the United States Navy, Sea, and Air Mariner program during his sophomore year of college. He carried out a variety of roles throughout his 32 years with the Seabees--including deployment with the 7th Naval Construction Regiment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he served as the Senior Watch Chief for the II Marine Expeditionary Force. On September 6, 2019, Veenstra turned over his final command position as the Reserve Affairs Command Master Chief at Navy Facilities Engineering Command in Washington, D.C. Outside of his service in the military, Alvin is a graduate of Ferris State University and serves as Project Manager/Executive Assistant for W.B. Builders in East Jordan. Alvin's more than three decades of decorated service is commendable, and the impact of his work on his fellow servicemembers and the people of the United States cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate Command Master Chief Petty Officer Alvin Veenstra for his decades of service to the people of the United States. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a selfless individual. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Alvin all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the Daily Globe in Ironwood, Michigan, upon the occasion of its 100th Anniversary. Through a century of community investment and growth, the Daily Globe has become an indispensable part of the Upper Peninsula. Seeing the need for a daily newspaper in the Western Upper Peninsula, Frank E. Noyes founded the Globe Publishing Company in the fall of 1919. The Daily Globe's first edition was published on November 20th, 1919. Its headline covered the tension between President Woodrow Wilson and the Senate regarding the proposed League of Nations following World War I. In 1936, construction began on its current location, under the leadership of Frank's son, Linwood. Over its century of operations, the Daily Globe would grow to be the local institution it is today. In addition to their daily publications, the Daily Globe publishes two annual visitors guides, sports previews, home improvement guides, and other specialty pieces. They have also found success in the 21st century, with a large online presence and daily updates to its website and social media. They provide a critical service to the people of Gogebic and Ontonagon Counties, and the impact of their work cannot be overstated. Day after day, the Daily Globe shows what can be achieved when a group of people work together for the betterment of their community. An open house will be held in honor of their centennial on November 20th. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate the Daily Globe in Ironwood for its 100 years of success, community growth, and service to the people of the Upper Peninsula. On behalf of my constituents, I wish it all the best as it ventures into the future.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, basically, when you have three stars, it just means you outlasted a lot of folks. But the point is the honor of being able to serve among marines, sailors, soldiers, airmen, and coastguardsmen is enough to make us all swell with pride because, you know, yesterday was Veteran's Day, and it is a real special day thanking the veterans of all wars for their service to our country. I rise today in support of H.R. 4477, as amended, the Reducing High Risk to Veterans and Veterans Services Act, a bill introduced by Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Chairman Chris Pappas and co- led by myself. Every 2 years, GAO publishes its High-Risk List identifying those activities which are considered high risk due to their vulnerabilities to fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement or their need for transformation. Sometimes things don't always stay the same, and we need to move forward with the change. As Ranking Member Roe stated, GAO added managing risks and improving VA healthcare to its list in 2015 and added VA Acquisition Management in 2019. This past May, the Comptroller General of the United States testified before the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, where I am proud to serve as ranking member, concerning the Department's efforts to add GAO recommendations. Comptroller General Dodaro testified during the hearing: ``I want to emphasize hardly any area in the high-risk area gets off the list without sustained congressional oversight, as well, and action by the Congress. The engagement by the Congress is absolutely critical to the success of agencies coming off the High-Risk List.'' The intent of this bill is to focus VA on its efforts to remove these two programs from GAO's High-Risk List and give Congress the information needed to provide the sustained congressional oversight the Comptroller General said was absolutely necessary and needed to remove programs from the High-Risk List. H.R. 4477 was amended in committee to incorporate provisions of H.R. 698, a bill introduced by Representative Banks, which would require VA to report on its efforts to implement GAO's priority recommendations for VA. I strongly encourage all Members to support H.R. 4477, as amended.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his recognition. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of H.R. 4162. But I would like to rise on behalf of not only the veterans, but also, the day before Veterans Day was the 244th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. The point is, all of the members of the military who serve and have served, no matter what branch of service, we are proudly serving in the culture that we chose. That would be, in my case, the Marine Corps. And we are honored that so many of our fellow veterans from the other services have chosen to join us in the celebration of service to our country. So it is an honor to be here, but also it is more of an honor to represent the veterans on the Veterans' Affairs Committee, so ably led by Chairman Takano and Ranking Member Roe. As far as H.R. 4162, as amended, the GI Bill Planning Act of 2019, the support we have gotten across the committee on this is nothing short of spectacular and bipartisan. I would like to thank Congresswoman Kathleen Rice for her support in making this happen. As Ranking Member Roe mentioned, during the first 2 weeks of boot camp, recruits are really not focused on making any big decisions, other than staying with the program and making sure that they get through boot camp. So they are not only asked to make a tough decision. They are actually required to make a very consequential decision at a time of extreme fatigue. They must decide whether to opt out of their Montgomery GI Bill benefit or pay $1,200 to keep their eligibility for down the road later on when they are eligible to use it as a veteran. Seventy percent of these enlistees are choosing to pay this relatively large expense, but few will ever use the Montgomery GI Bill. Rather, 97 percent of veterans today are choosing the newer Post-9/11 GI Bill, which usually amounts to a higher monetary benefit. My legislation, the GI Bill Planning Act, would delay this decision to no earlier than 6 months after these young men and women have completed boot camp and entered service, instead of that first 2 weeks, again, very critical in their time for success in boot camp. Additionally, this bill would responsibly end new enlistee enrollments in the outdated Montgomery GI Bill by October 2029. While the Montgomery GI Bill has helped millions of veterans since 1984, it is time to simplify benefits and sunset this bill. Mr. Speaker, not only can this legislation save enlistees money, but it can also ensure that they are more informed in their educational benefits decisions. It is important that these motivated young men and women know that we in Congress have their backs and are thinking of them as they plan their bright futures in service to our great Nation. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4162, as amended.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Phyllis Green for her retirement as Superintendent of Isle Royale National Park. Through her decades of leadership and commitment to our natural heritage, Phyllis has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District. A U.P. native, Phyllis grew up surrounded by some of the most pristine natural landscapes our country has to offer. It should therefore not be surprising that she found her calling for conservation work at a young age. In high school, she led multiple clubs dedicated to environmental conservation before attending Michigan Technological University and earning an undergraduate degree in forestry. Her 41-year professional career saw her serve in a variety of conservation and land management roles, including as supervisor of Ottawa National Forest. As Superintendent of Isle Royale, Phyllis oversaw significant improvements to the operations and management of the park, including the implementation of a solar power system, invasive species control, and most recently, the reintroduction of the Gray Wolf to the island. This endeavor has required intensive ecological work and cooperation between the National Parks Service, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, USDA, and the State University of New York. Thanks in part to her leadership, the species introduction is well on its way to long- term success, with 17 wolves currently calling the island home. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate Phyllis Green for her decades of service and her retirement as Superintendent of Isle Royale National Park. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a dedicated individual. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Phyllis all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the Leelanau Conservation District as they celebrate their 75th Anniversary. Through its dedication to responsible natural resources management, land conservation, and a healthy environment, the Leelanau Conservation District has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District. As an avid outdoorsman, I recognize the importance protecting our wildlife and natural resources through effective conservation. In that endeavor, the Leelanau Conservation District has been invaluable to Northern Michigan. First organized in 1943, the District works to promote the wise use of our natural resources through information and technical assistance to those throughout Leelanau County. From promoting healthy forests and responsible hunting, to fighting invasive species and preventing soil erosion, their work has been critical for the people of Michigan's First District. Our region is home to some of the most pristine natural landscapes in the country. I'm grateful for the Leelanau Conservation District's efforts to ensure that future generations can enjoy the same natural beauty we so deeply treasure. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate the Leelanau Conservation District for 75 years of service. Michiganders can take immense pride in knowing that the First District is home to such a trusted organization working to promote environmental and ecological health. On behalf of my constituents, I wish the Leelanau Conservation District all the best in its future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the life of James Oliver Twist, who passed away at the age of 27 after a lifetime of service to his fellow Americans. Through his extreme courage and selflessness, James became an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. James was born on June 30, 1992. The youngest of his siblings, James excelled as an athlete and obtained the rank of Eagle Scout before graduating from Forest Hills Central High School. Upon graduation, James enlisted in the United States Army. He completed his basic training at Fort Knox and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. James served in Afghanistan in 2012, where he was deployed to the Kandahar Valley. Throughout his service abroad, James was invaluable to his brothers in uniform, and he took great joy in the work he did for nearby villages. Following his return home, James married his wife Emalyn in 2013, and joined the Army Reserve, serving with the 321st Psychological Operations Battalion in Grand Rapids. Seeking to further serve his fellow Michiganders, James entered the State Police Training Academy and graduated in July 2018 as Trooper No. 1615. Despite his unforgettable sense of humor and unique ability to bring joy to others, James hid his struggle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. On October 22, 2019, James took his own life. Even after his death, James was dedicated to the public good as his organs and tissue were used to save the lives of six fellow Americans. As we look for solace after this tragedy, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. James' tireless devotion to the public good has touched the lives of countless Michiganders, and the impact of his work cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in honoring the life of James Oliver Twist. His legacy will forever live on in his family and through the countless lives he bettered through his service

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend, colleague, and fellow marine, Greg Pence, for the honor to speak before this body tonight on such a--you don't call an occasion like this important, but I think we call it relevant. It is relevant because Marines, for a long time, since 1775, have fought to defend freedom, and we go to the fight to win, but we also go to the fight to help others. On Sunday, 23 October 1983, you have heard the story told already, how 220 marines, 18 sailors, and 3 soldiers lost their lives when a terrorist's truck bomb exploded at a barracks compound in Beirut, Lebanon. The same day, 58 of our French brothers in arms lost their lives in an additional attack by Hezbollah. In what would be the deadliest day for the Marine Corps since the battle of Iwo Jima, seven of the marines and sailors were Michiganders, including Lance Corporal David Bousum of Fife Lake, Michigan. I remember that day very vividly. At the time, I was a KC-130 pilot stationed at Naval Air Station Glenview, Illinois, flying the KC-130 refuelers. We used to fly all around the world, in and out of the Middle East doing our mission. Five days after the bombing was the annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball for our unit and our greater Chicago marines. And that year, we had as our guest of honor then-Major General Al Gray, commander of the 2nd Marine Division, who a couple years after that became the commandant of the Marine Corps. The Marines are full of tradition and pageantry. And I will tell you what, the only thing we do more than celebrate, is grieve. And of the roughly 50 years of birthday balls that I have attended, that one was heavy with grief. We had lost our brothers through a heinous act, and a cowardly act. It took us a while to get over it at that time, but, in the end, you really never get over it. All you do is set your course for the future fight to make sure that that does not happen again. The loss of life will always have an impact on our entire armed services community and our Nation. Our mission, as the Marine Corps, is to be the most ready when the Nation is least ready, and we will always be that, whether it be in the 1770s or in the 2070s and beyond. Today, we honor the fallen, we honor their lives, their legacies, and their families. We will never forget the sacrifices made by Michigan's own that day. We lost the following warriors, marines, and sailors: Lance Corporal David Bousum from Fife Lake Lance Corporal Johansen Banks from Detroit Sergeant Anthony K. Brown from Detroit Hospital Corpsman 2 Michael H. Johnson from Detroit Sergeant Michael R. Massman from Port Huron Sergeant William H. Pollard from Flint First Lieutenant William A. Zimmerman from Grand Haven We will never forget. In the Marines' Hymn, the third stanza ends with: ``If the Army and the Navy ever look on Heaven's scenes, they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines.'' I would suggest to you that some of those marines are on duty today. We honor their service, we honor their sacrifice, and we honor our country by remembering. God bless you all and Semper Fidelis.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, The White House held a roundtable on the National Crisis of Veteran Suicide, which I was invited to be a part of. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall No. 579 and ``nay'' on rollcall No. 580.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, since November 9, 2016, Democrats have been calling for the removal of President Trump. Even before he took office, they have been protesting the results of the election and have sought to delegitimize his historic win in battleground States like Michigan. Breaking with historical precedent, House Democrat leadership will not hold a vote on this extremely consequential matter. House Democrats have created a toxic work environment, resulting in nothing getting done, no good policy or law created, no regular order. This is a politically motivated charade attempting to undermine and diminish the effectiveness of a duly elected President and his administration based on bias, prejudice, and disgraceful politics. The people of the First District of Michigan sent me here to work with others to get things done and represent the people with honor and integrity. I am sure my 434 colleagues were sent here with the same mission. It is high time to get back to real work.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Helen Keating Dillon for her retirement as Captain of the Ironton Ferry. Through her thirty years of experience and commitment to excellence and public safety, Captain Helen has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District. First starting operations in 1876, the Ironton Ferry has made the 600-foot trip across the Ironton Narrows on Lake Charlevoix for more than 140 years--providing vehicles, cyclists, and walkers a shortcut from the 20-mile route around the lake's south arm. What started as a simple rowboat eventually turned into a horse-powered cable ferry, before being replaced with its current incarnation in 1926. The ferry has received national fame as a subject in the Ripley's Believe it or Not! series, and was even referenced in writings by Ernest Hemingway. Since 1989, Helen has captained the ferry and has helped continue its history of success. Notably in October 2015, Helen successfully docked the ferry after an onboard car caught fire. Her skill and calm demeanor in ensuring the safety of those on the ferry was recognized with multiple accolades, including a plaque of meritorious commendation from then-Sheriff Don Schneider. Her 30 years serving as Captain of the Ironton Ferry is commendable, and her impact on the people of her community cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate Captain Helen Keating Dillon for her decades of service to the people of Northern Michigan. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a dedicated individual. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Helen all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for welcoming its 50 millionth visitor. Through a commitment to conserving this natural treasure and ensuring it can be enjoyed by visitors from throughout the world, the Sleeping Bear Dunes has become an indispensable part of Northern Michigan. Our state is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country--attracting visitors from around the world and providing Michiganders with a quality of life that is second to none. Perhaps first among these picturesque landscapes is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Located in the northwest corner of the Lower Peninsula, the Sleeping Bear Dunes covers a 35-mile stretch of Lake Michigan's coastline. Its bluffs, forests, beaches, inland lakes, and unique wildlife have been enjoyed by locals and visitors for centuries. The land was established as a National Lakeshore under the National Parks Service in October of 1970--and over the next 49 years, millions would come to enjoy everything it has to offer. On August 19, 2019, the National Lakeshore welcomed its 50 millionth visitor. This incredible milestone, coming at the cusp of its 50th anniversary, clearly shows how dearly the Sleeping Bear Dunes are held in the hearts of Michiganders and all Americans. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for welcoming its 50 millionth visitor. Michiganders can take immense pride in knowing that the First District is home to such an important and beloved natural treasure.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the lives and service of Stu Skauge, Tommy Spencer, and Shana Thornton on the occasion of their induction into the Upper Peninsula Labor Hall of Fame. Through a lifetime of unparalleled service and devotion to the public good, these three leaders have become indispensable parts of the state of Michigan. The U.P. Labor Hall of Fame was established in 1993 to recognize unionists who have made an outstanding contribution to the cause of worker dignity and workplace fairness. With their lifetimes in service to their fellow workers, Shana, Tommy, and Stu are all clearly deserving of this honor. Stu Skauge served as a Michigan school teacher for 33 years. As a member of the Michigan Education Association (MEA), Stu served as president-elect, president, and chief negotiator for his bargaining unit in the Marquette Area Public Schools district for over 25 years. He would go on to become the MEA UniServ director in Marquette and Alger Counties for another 10 years before his retirement. He has remained a dedicated leader in retirement, serving on the Ishpeming City Council and continuing to be active with the MBA-Retired organization. Stu also served as a Sergeant E-5 in the Korean War and is a life member and former commander of the Ishpeming VFW. As a member of the United Steelworkers for 38 years, Tommy Spencer served as a leader, trainer, and activist for on-the-job health and safety, eventually becoming the Company Committee Safety Chairperson. His efforts were critical in forming the Steelworkers Coalition and establishing the Worker Memorial Day event--helping to remember workers killed or injured on the job and continue the fight for stronger safety and health protections. Tommy has devoted countless hours to volunteer work and public service through organizations like the Marquette County Labor Council, the Cliff's Shaft Mining Museum Board, the Negaunee Township Building and Recreation Committee, and the Harley Owners Group. While she started her career as a teacher's aide, Shana Thornton quickly found her calling as a union activist--serving as steward, chapter chair, and local president in her local organization. Her drive led her to become a Staff Representative for the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) before ultimately serving as the Director of Field Services for AFSCME Council 25, where she supervised 23 Staff Representatives across the state of Michigan. Shana was the first and only woman to serve as President of the Marquette County Labor Council. She also served at the state-level on the Michigan AFL-CIO General Board and the Michigan Labor-Management Council, representing the U.P. Madam Speaker, induction into the U.P. Labor Hall of Fame is a tremendous honor and reflects a lifetime of service towards the rights and well-being of fellow workers. None are more deserving of this honor than Stu Skauge, Tommy Spencer, and Shana Thornton. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such dedicated leaders. On behalf of my constituents, I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the life and service of the late Senator Robert Griffin on the occasion of his induction into the Department of Labor's Hall of Honor. Through a lifetime of unparalleled leadership and devotion to the public good, Senator Griffin became an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. Robert Paul Griffin was born November 6, 1923, in Detroit, Michigan. The son of an auto factory foreman, Griffin spent his youth working on auto assembly lines. During the Second World War, Robert enlisted in the 71st Infantry Division of the U.S. Army, where he served from 1943 until 1946. Following his military service, Robert attended Central Michigan University and went on to earn his law degree from the University of Michigan in 1950. He practiced law in Traverse City until his election to the U.S. House of Representatives as the Congressman for what was then Michigan's Ninth District in 1956. Representative Griffin became a national leader in the fight against organized crime and union corruption, eventually helping to create the Labor Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959--also known as the Landrum-Griffin Act. This landmark piece of Labor legislation has helped to promote democracy, weed out corruption, and allow members to participate more freely in the affairs of their union. After serving in the House for five terms, Griffin was appointed to a vacant Senate seat, where he would go on to win reelection and serve as the Senate Minority Whip. Following his time in the Senate, he returned to Traverse City to practice law until his election to the Michigan Supreme Court in 1986. He served on the Court until his retirement in 1994. He passed away in 2015 at the age of 91. In commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Landrum-Griffin Act, the U.S. Department of Labor has inducted Senator Griffin and former National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) member Howard Jenkins, Jr., into the Department's Hall of Honor. With his lifetime of promoting fair and responsible practices in unions, none are more deserving of this honor than Senator Griffin. The impact of his life's work on the people of the United States cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the incredible life of Senator Robert Griffin and his induction into the Department of Labor's Hall of Honor. His family can take great pride in knowing that the legacy of this dedicated leader will live on for generations to come.