John Carter

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, I yield an additional 1 minute to the gentleman from Oklahoma.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Alford).

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I am ready to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, I yield myself the balance of my time. In closing, I ask my colleagues to support the fiscal year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This legislation provides critical funding for military bases, improves housing for our troops and their families, and makes investments aimed at improving the quality of life for our servicemembers. It also upholds our pledge to our veterans. This bill fully funds healthcare for veterans and benefits for those who have honorably served. This bill was drafted on a bipartisan basis with a shared priority of taking care of those who cared for us. Today, I ask my colleagues to support the bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, pursuant to House Resolution 1275, I offer amendments en bloc.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, I rise in favor of these amendments en bloc. It includes bipartisan amendments that both sides have agreed to. These are noncontroversial and raise awareness to a variety of issues. I appreciate the ranking member, Ms. Wasserman Schultz, working with us on these amendments, and I ask for your support and urge its adoption. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chair, I move that the Committee do now rise.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Penelope ``Penny'' Ann Briggs Brown of Conroe, Texas, who passed away on February 14, 2026. Penny was born on August 13, 1941, in Washington, D.C. A woman of deep faith, kindness, and creativity, she touched countless lives through her generosity, warmth, and unwavering devotion to her family. Penny graduated from Northwood High School in Silver Spring, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Maryland. During a summer internship as a Technical Illustrator at Vitro Corporation, she met Richard ``Dick'' Brown, who later became her husband. Together they raised their children, Derek Michael Brown, Barrington Lee Brown, and Teri Lynn, and welcomed cherished grandchildren Leighton, Gipson, Ashley, and Austin. Although Penny was talented in many areas, her greatest gifts were evident in the way she mothered her children. She poured her heart into supporting their school activities, sewing costumes, volunteering at events, and cheering them on in marching band, drill team, and football. She created a family life grounded in love and faith, and she carried that same devotion into her relationships with her grandchildren. Professionally, Penny worked as a CAD CAM operator for E Systems. She also shared her gifts through quilting, jewelry making, and crochet. A faithful servant of her community, she was an active member of The Woodlands Methodist Church, where she contributed to the Crafts Circle and the Prayer Shawl Ministry. Penny Brown's life was defined by love, creativity, service, and a deep commitment to those around her. She offered encouragement with sincerity and left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Her legacy of compassion and faith will continue to guide and inspire her family and community for generations to come.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th Anniversary of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Temple, Texas, an institution whose century-long service has strengthened not only the spiritual lives of its congregation, but also the character and community of Central Texas. Founded in 1926, Immanuel Lutheran Church has been a steadfast presence in Temple for generations by providing worship, fellowship, education, and charitable outreach that reflects the very best of our faith communities. Over the past century, this church has grown from a small gathering of devoted families into a vibrant congregation that continues to serve as a source of stability, compassion, and hope. From its earliest years, Immanuel Lutheran Church has been a place where faith is lived out through service. Supporting local schools, offering outreach to families in need, and standing as a pillar of fellowship and unity. The congregation's dedication reflects the enduring values that have shaped Central Texas for generations. As the church looks toward the next century of ministry, its members remain committed to their mission of serving God, uplifting their neighbors, and strengthening the bonds of community. Their legacy is a testament to what can be achieved when faith, family, and service are at the heart of daily life. I am honored to congratulate Immanuel Lutheran Church of Temple, Texas, on its 100th Anniversary, and I extend my deepest appreciation for its century of service to the people of the 31st District of Texas. May God continue to bless this congregation and guide its ministry for the next hundred years.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the life and legacy of Dell Ingram-Walker, an extraordinary healthcare leader and dedicated public servant, whose impact on pediatric healthcare and her community will not be forgotten. Dell Ingram-Walker served with distinction as the Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and President of McLane Children's Medical Center in Temple, Texas. A pioneering leader, she made history as the first Black Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the institution, breaking barriers and setting a powerful example for future generations. Throughout her career, Dell led with both excellence and compassion. Her organizational style was defined not only by operational success, but by her deep commitment to people. She actively engaged with staff at every level, fostering a culture where every voice was valued and every team member felt empowered. Through initiatives focused on connection and mentorship, she worked tirelessly to uplift those around her and ensure the highest standard of care for patients and families. A proud alumna of the University of Alabama, Dell carried her passion for leadership and grace into every role she held. She was known for encouraging professional growth, inspiring others to pursue their goals, and creating opportunities for advancement within the healthcare field. Her influence extended far beyond the hospital walls, touching the lives of colleagues, patients, and the broader community. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dell will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and the genuine care she showed to everyone she encountered. She built meaningful relationships and left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Dell Ingram-Walker represents the very best of guidance in healthcare. She was truly compassionate for others and deeply committed to service. On behalf of a grateful community, I extend my deepest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues, and I honor her remarkable life and enduring legacy.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the 25 years of service by Annunciation Maternity Home, an extraordinary ministry dedicated to affirming the dignity of every human life by caring for both mother and child during and after pregnancies. Since opening in Georgetown in 2001, Annunciation Maternity Home has become a vital pillar of support in the community, providing stability, compassion, and opportunities to mothers and babies in need. Through its comprehensive services, the organization offers safe housing and basic needs assistance for up to two years following the birth of a child, tailoring care to each mother's unique circumstances. Rooted in a deep commitment to the sanctity of life, the organization provides not only a safe home, but also the spiritual, emotional, and material support necessary for mothers to choose life and flourish alongside their children. Through a faith-driven, holistic approach, Annunciation walks with mothers every step of the way, offering housing, access to prenatal and postnatal care, counseling, life skills training, and opportunities for education and employment. Their work reflects a profound belief that caring for a child begins with caring for the mother, equipping women with the stability and confidence needed to build strong, loving families. As it marks this remarkable milestone, Annunciation Maternity Home continues to broaden its reach through the addition of new residential homes, a community center, and expanded childcare services, extending hope and opportunity to even more families in Central Texas. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing their extraordinary contributions and steadfast commitment to uplifting mothers and children, strengthening families, and enriching the entire community with compassion and dignity.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the life and legacy of Richard A. ``Dick'' Brown of Conroe, Texas, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and journalist whose dedication to family, service, and community will be long remembered. Born on December 21, 1937, in Spencer, North Carolina, Dick was the son of Carney Ray and Elizabeth Williams Brown. He grew up in a close family and was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Billy Ray Brown and Robert Carol Brown. Dick met his wife, Penelope ``Penny'' Briggs, while working at Vitro Corporation in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she served as a summer intern. They married and soon welcomed their children Derek Michael, Barrington Lee, and Teri Lynn. Dick proudly served in the United States Coast Guard Reserve and later built a long career at E Systems, earning his bachelor's degree in journalism from East Texas A&M University in Commerce before retiring from Raytheon. His leadership extended into the community through his involvement in the Raytheon Management Club and the Hunt County Republican Men's Club. Following retirement, Dick returned to his love of writing, working as a reporter for the Commerce Journal and the Greenville Herald Banner. His weekly column, The Bottom Line, and later his contributions to the Bay City Tribune, reflected his deep interest in people, public service, and the stories that shape communities. Above all. Dick treasured his family and took enormous pride in his children and grandchildren, remaining an active and loving presence in their lives. Richard A. ``Dick'' Brown embodied integrity, dedication, and a spirit of service to others. His life leaves a lasting imprint on his family, his community, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable achievement by one of the finest companies in the great state of Texas, Firefly Aerospace of Cedar Park, on the one-year anniversary of their historic Blue Ghost Mission 1 lunar landing. One year ago, on March 2, 2025, Firefly Aerospace made history when their Blue Ghost lunar lander touched down in Mare Crisium on the near side of the Moon. With that landing, Firefly became the first commercial company to achieve a fully successful soft landing on the Moon--a milestone in the modern era of American space exploration. This was not merely a corporate achievement; it was an American achievement. Blue Ghost launched on January 15, 2025, from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, carrying ten scientific instruments for NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services program and the Artemis campaign to return humans to the Moon. Blue Ghost operates from Firefly's Mission Control Center in Cedar Park, Texas, in the heart of the 31st Congressional District, which I am proud to serve. Firefly's success stands as a testament to American ingenuity and private enterprise. Where NASA's Apollo 17 last touched the Moon in 1972, Firefly's team has opened a new chapter of commercial lunar access that will strengthen our national security and scientific leadership. As a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, I am proud to support the federal investments that helped make this success possible. I commend the entire Firefly team, from the engineers at their Cedar Park headquarters to the technicians at the Texas Rocket Ranch in Briggs and their more than 500-person workforce. The 31st District of Texas is home to warriors, farmers, and now, Moon landers. I congratulate Firefly Aerospace on one year since they reached the Moon and showed the world what American commercial space can do.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life, service, and ultimate sacrifice of Officer Elijah Monroe Garretson, a devoted public servant whose courage and commitment left a lasting legacy on the Copperas Cove community and Central Texas. Officer Garretson lived a life defined by service. He first answered the call to protect others through honorable service in the United States Army, serving from 2017 to 2024 and attaining the rank of Sergeant. His military career reflected discipline, leadership, and an unwavering sense of duty that guided him both in and out of uniform. Following his military service, Officer Garretson continued his commitment to public service by joining the Copperas Cove Police Department in January 2025. The department sponsored him through the Central Texas College Basic Peace Officer Academy, where he distinguished himself as a top student, graduating with the highest GPA in his class in 2025. He was sworn in as a police officer on June 27, 2025, successfully completed field training, and served on Gold Team Nights with professionalism, integrity, and compassion. On January 10, 2026, Officer Garretson made the ultimate sacrifice, losing his life in the line of duty while protecting the community he served with honor. Beyond the uniform, Elijah Garretson was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother. He married his wife, Alexis, in July 2025 and was a loving father to his five-year-daughter, Elliana. He was also pursuing college studies in social work, driven by a deep passion for mental health and helping others. Though his time with the department was far too brief, Officer Garretson's legacy of service, courage, and compassion will endure. We honor his life, grieve his loss, and remain forever grateful for his sacrifice.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nancy Patterson, a U.S. Army veteran and accomplished leader in public education, workforce development, and cross-sector collaboration. With more than two decades of experience, Ms. Patterson has focused on advancing College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) for students across Texas and the Nation. She has held executive leadership roles in a public school system that serves over 40,000 students, leading systemwide improvements that enhanced accountability outcomes and student readiness. She is recognized for supervising and coaching school leaders, strengthening leadership pipelines, and aligning people, processes, and performance during times of organizational transition. Ms. Patterson's work bridges education, workforce, military, and higher education systems to align pathways with labor market needs, expand postsecondary opportunities, and improve long-term economic mobility for students and communities. She has served in advisory and leadership roles for the Texas Education Agency, testified before the Texas House Committee on Public Education, and contributed to boards supporting military-connected students and workforce development. She also served on the Texas State Advisory Council for Educational Opportunities for Military-Connected Children. Nationally, Ms. Patterson participated in the 2023 National Security Seminar at the United States Army War College and was appointed advisor to the Women's Leadership Program at Texas A&M University--Texarkana in 2024. In 2025, she was named one of the Top 10 School Executive Directors by Education Insider. She holds a master's degree in curriculum and instruction, completed post-master's coursework in educational administration, and holds Texas principal certification. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Nancy Patterson for her dedicated service to strengthening education, workforce readiness, and opportunities for military-connected students and families.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I proudly salute Major Matthew N. Topitzer for his outstanding service to the United States Army and for the remarkable professionalism he has demonstrated throughout his military career. Major Topitzer has consistently embodied the dedication, integrity, and commitment to excellence that define the finest officers in our Armed Forces. Major Topitzer's military journey reflects broad operational experience and steadfast leadership. He began his service as a Signal Platoon Leader in the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade at Camp Humphreys, South Korea, and later led paratroopers in the 112th Signal Battalion at Fort Bragg. His expertise in communications and network operations took him to Special Operations Command--Europe in Stuttgart, Germany, and to Fort Belvoir, where he served as a technical project's leader for the 1st Capabilities Integration Group. In 2020, he deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan, serving as Deputy CJ6 for NATO Special Operations Joint Task Force--Afghanistan. I had the privilege of working closely with Major Topitzer when he served as my Defense Fellow through the Army Congressional Fellowship Program. His thoughtful counsel, analytical rigor, and deep understanding of defense policy were invaluable to my office. Following his fellowship, he continued his exemplary service as a Congressional Budget Liaison to the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Financial Management and Comptroller, presenting key research, development, and intelligence portfolios before Congress. Major Topitzer's achievements also include earning a Master of Legislative Affairs from George Washington University and completing advanced military education, including SERE High-Risk, Airborne School, and the Interagency Communications Course. He further demonstrates his commitment to service through his role as a White House Military Social Aide. It is an honor to commend Major Topitzer for his distinguished service to the Army and the Nation. I extend my warmest congratulations to Matthew and his wife Ana as they continue this journey of service together.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I commend Tim Mikeska for being named Taylor's Outstanding Citizen. This well-deserved honor recognizes a lifetime of tireless service and outstanding contributions to the City of Taylor and the Central Texas community. Tim's commitment to public service is reflected in his leadership on the Taylor City Council, the Williamson County Health District Board, the Taylor Economic Development Corporation, and the Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce. His efforts have helped build a stronger, more resilient community where families and businesses can flourish. As CEO of Mikeska's Bar-B-Q Inc., Tim has carried on a proud family tradition bringing the bold flavors of Texas barbecue to tables across the country, and even internationally to Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the United Kingdom. His work has earned national recognition through features on Food Nation on the Food Network, The CBS Early Show, and the Travel Channel. Beyond the restaurant, Tim is a licensed EMT-Paramedic, instructor, and adjunct professor in Emergency Medical Services. In 1982, he founded the Taylor Heartsaver program, which has taught CPR to over 400 residents of east Williamson County, He also serves as a Command Pilot with Angel Flight South Central, Air Care Alliance, and Pilots N Paws, where he volunteers his time and aircraft to transport patients and animals in need of medical care. Tim Mikeska's legacy speaks to the highest values we Texans hold dear. Through financial contributions, spiritual guidance, and feeding those in need, Tim's legacy will be felt for generations. I join the City of Taylor, his family, and all of Central Texas in congratulating him on this well-deserved honor. I thank him for a lifetime of service and wish him continued success and blessings in the years to come.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I salute the life and legacy of 1st Lieutenant Charles W. ``Woody'' McCook, a World War II hero and devoted patriot, who joined the angels in July of 1948. His courage, sacrifice, and unwavering sense of duty exemplify the very best of the American spirit. Though decades have passed since his final mission, his story continues to inspire all who cherish freedom and understand the cost of preserving it. Affectionately known as ``Woody'' to his loved ones and fellow service members, Lt. McCook served as the pilot of a B-25C Mitchell aircraft during the Second World War. Answering his Nation's call, he bravely flew into the dangerous jungles of Japanese-occupied Burma, now known as Myanmar. His missions were perilous, often requiring low- altitude attacks and precise coordination in an environment where survival was never guaranteed. For 82 years, Lt. McCook was listed as Missing in Action. Thanks to the tireless efforts of military recovery teams, his remains have finally returned home to Georgetown, Texas, where his family and community, after decades of unanswered questions, can now lay him to rest with the honor and dignity he earned. Lt. McCook's service reminds us that freedom is not free. It is secured through the bravery of those willing to give everything in its defense. His return brings long-awaited closure to his family and a renewed appreciation from his country. As we mourn the passing of Lt. McCook, his presence was a blessing to all who knew him. The positive impact he had on the lives of others will live on and remain forever in our hearts.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize the Round Rock High School Marine Corps JROTC Academics Team, who achieved a historic first-place finish at the 2025 JROTC Leadership and Academic Bowl (JLAB) National Championship. This marks the first time a Marine Corps JROTC team has captured the overall national title across all service branches, and the first time a team from Round Rock has earned this distinction. JLAB 2025 began in November 2024 with 3,543 JROTC programs from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. After months of rigorous online competition, only the top teams advanced to the national championship at Catholic University in Washington, D.C. Though Round Rock initially ranked ninth among Marine Corps programs, just outside the qualifying cutoff, an unexpected opening allowed them to compete. They went on to win the Marine Corps division and then defeat the champions from every other branch to claim the national title. Their victory was the result of months of disciplined preparation, including weekly practices, competition simulations, and intense review of past contest materials. Under the leadership of retired Marine Master Gunnery Sergeant Olmeda, who served 23 years on active duty and is now in his eighth year teaching JROTC, cadets Niveda Swamynathan, Khushal Jalagam, Sylvia Marrone, and Ishaan Chokshi demonstrated exceptional dedication, teamwork, and academic excellence. On behalf of the United States House of Representatives, I congratulate the Round Rock High School Marine Corps JROTC Academics Team, who have made Central Texas proud through their perseverance and groundbreaking achievement.