John Carter

Mr. CARTER of Texas

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

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Chair, I rise as the designee of the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Granger). Madam Chair, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Chair, I yield to the gentlewoman from Colorado (Mrs. Boebert).

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Chair, I yield back the balance of my time. Amendment No. 36 Offered by Mr. Mast

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Chair, I rise in opposition to this amendment.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Chair, I understand the intent and that some States permit the use of marijuana. However, the VA doctors are required to comply with Federal law. This amendment does not address that. I don't want to put them in legal jeopardy. I believe this should be handled by the authorizing committee. Madam Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Chair, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Wasserman Schultz).

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

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Chair, I yield back the balance of my time. Amendment No. 38 Offered by Mr. Roy

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

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I'm honored to celebrate and recognize the extraordinary work of Chancellor Jim Yeonopolus as he enters his richly deserved retirement. His decades of dedication to Central Texas College reflect the hard work and commitment of an admirable public servant. Jim has made substantial contributions to CTC since he launched his career at the college 50 years ago. He began as a counselor for student services, and through hard work, tenacity, and business acumen, he advanced into leadership roles as dean, assistant deputy chancellor, deputy chancellor, and interim chancellor. As a proud veteran, he has been an integral part of the success of CTC's military education operations. His efforts have resulted in CTC being regarded as one of Texas' great institutions of higher learning. Jim's commitment to community doesn't stop when his workday ends. He contributes his energies to trade and civic organizations that help make Central Texas a great place to call home. Whether it's the Boy Scouts, the United Way, or the Killeen Rodeo Association, Jim goes the extra mile to be of service to his fellow Texans. While Jim isn't tired of the privilege of service, he knows that everything has its season, and the time has come to allow the next generation of leaders to take the stage. Stepping away from work won't give him much idle time as he remains a vital part of the Central Texas community and will spend more time with his beloved wife Nancy. Retirement is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new adventure. It is my honor to recognize the selfless service of Jim Yeonopolus as he starts this new chapter of his life. On behalf of Central Texas, I thank him for his superb work and wish him the very best.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to celebrate the well- deserved retirement of Dr. Marc A. Nigliazzo, who has worked tirelessly to serve the communities of Central Texas through his time at Temple College and Texas A&M University-Central Texas. Nigliazzo's dedication to our home is truly unrivaled. Throughout his career, Dr. Nigliazzo has touched the lives of all his students. From his time as president at Temple College to his tenure as the inaugural president at Texas A&M-Central Texas he always went the extra mile to insure a positive impact on his students and the community. Dr. Nigliazzo has played a vital role in promoting accelerated learning as well as building safe and supportive school communities for our central Texas communities. His dedication to education and addressing the major challenges that Texas A&M University-Central Texas has faced has brought the school to where it is today. His great work has not gone unnoticed. Dr. Nigliazzo was awarded the Leopard Pride for his work with the Temple College athletic program and the Temple College Board of Trustees named the administration building in his honor. These tributes speak to the justifiably high regard his peers hold him in. Retirement is to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but rather the beginning of a new adventure. I commend Dr. Marc A. Nigliazzo for his years of selfless service as well as his commitment to the betterment of higher education. He is an inspiration to our community, and I wish him only the best in the years ahead.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I'm honored to celebrate Valerie Baldwin as she embarks on her richly deserved retirement. With a career spanning a variety of vital responsibilities across the federal government and the private sectors, Valerie's commitment to excellence represents the best values of public service and remains a standard for all to follow. Throughout her career, she brought her tremendous talents, outstanding work ethic, and commitment to excellence to every challenge she encountered. Whether it was demanding work on Capitol Hill or ensuring tax dollars were wisely used by the Pentagon, Valerie never hesitated to go the extra mile to ensure the job was done and done right. Val and I worked closely together when she served as Clerk of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee during my tenure as its chairman. I relied closely on her wise advice and counsel as we navigated the often-choppy waters of supporting the many critical and challenging responsibilities shouldered by DHS. She was a consensus builder extraordinaire who deftly managed a staff of committed professionals, bringing out their best as they worked tirelessly to craft critical legislation. While Valerie isn't tired of the privilege of service, she knows that everything has its season, and the time has come for the next generation of leaders to take the stage. But stepping away from work won't give her much idle time as she remains an active and committed godmother, cherished friend, and mentor. Retirement is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new adventure. I am honored to recognize the selfless service of Valerie Baldwin as she starts this new chapter of her life. On behalf of a grateful Nation, I thank her for her superb work, remain grateful for our friendship, and wish her the very best.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, as the proud Co-Chair of the Army Caucus, I extend my deepest gratitude for the service of Major General Trevor J. Bredenkamp to the United States Congress as the Army's Chief Legislative Liaison. Under his stewardship, the Army maintained strong relationships with members of Congress, committees, and staff. His many accomplishments within the Office of the Chief Legislative Liaison are a testament to his leadership, particularly in how his team persevered during the COVID-19 pandemic. Congratulations to Major General Bredenkamp on his selection as the Commanding General of the Military District of Washington and Commander of the Joint Forces Headquarters-National Capital Region. His dedication and experience will undoubtedly result in a disciplined and prepared force, entrusted with securing our Nation's Capital. I extend my best wishes as he transitions to a new assignment and express profound thankfulness to him and his family's service to our Nation.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I commend the exceptional career of Williamson County Clerk Nancy Rister as she celebrates her 25th anniversary of outstanding public service to Central Texas. Her contributions have made the members of her community's lives better and have helped make Texas a great place to live and work. Nancy's resume is one to be admired and respected. It tells the story of a woman unafraid to contribute both her time and energies to the highest levels of public service as well as to a multitude of organizations that rely on volunteerism and social engagement to make good communities great. She has done what all public servants are honored to do: put the needs of the people first. Implementing physical records to an online forum that's available for all citizens, decreasing turnaround time for deeds, and improving the organization and professionalism of the County Clerk's office, are just a few examples of the accomplishments that Nancy has achieved in her esteemed career. Over her quarter century in office, she has worked tirelessly to ensure that Williamson County residents receive the world-class public service they deserve. Nancy's anniversary is a testament to her admirable career and a milestone in a life of service. I join her colleagues, friends, family, and the citizens of Williamson County in celebrating and honoring her 25 years of hard work and dedication.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to celebrate the life of Donald L. Hale, who joined the angels in July of 1997. As a true and devoted patriot, he made valuable contributions to the safety of our Nation and to the preservation of freedom around the world. As a member of ``Merrill's Marauders'' during WWII, Hale answered the call for the most dangerous missions and faced the most brutal conditions in the Japanese-occupied jungles of Myanmar (then known as Burma). Heroes like him represent both the best of our Army and of our Nation. They endured fierce combat, life-threatening illnesses, along with extreme exhaustion and heat, all in the toughest terrain one can face in battle. Their fearless efforts laid the foundation for the creation of the Army Ranger regiment. The contributions of Hale and his fellow Marauders did not go unnoticed. They were recently honored with Congressional Gold Medals, ensuring that the U.S. will never forget their sacrifices. While he is sadly no longer with us, Hale's family proudly received his honor on his behalf. As we mourn Donald Hale's passing, his presence was a blessing for all who knew him and his commitment to his Nation helped keep us free. The positive impacts 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 rise in support of H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act. House Republicans are fulfilling the promises to restore safety and security at our borders, furthering the goals outlined in the House Republican Commitment to America. Included in this border package is my bill, the Protection of Children Act. We know that human traffickers, cartels, and coyotes exploit children in order to line their pockets and then abandon them at the border. These children are then subject to a very slow-moving bureaucratic system, all the while being separated from their families. My Protection of Children Act gives these children a choice and closes loopholes to end the exploitation of children. By returning these children to their own country quickly and safely, we prevent these children from experiencing the further trauma of detention and being released to potential strangers and a long, drawn- out adjudication process. I thank Representative Biggs and Representative Nehls for cosponsoring my Protection of Children Act. I thank the House Homeland Security, Judiciary, and Foreign Affairs Committees for what they have done on this legislation. I would like to point out something. When I was the chairman of the Appropriations Committee's Homeland Security Subcommittee, I was in Laredo in 2014 at the bus station. There were 700 people waiting to go somewhere. They told me two people spoke Spanish or English. None of the children spoke Spanish or English. They were going to be released into this country once they left Laredo with no one to help them. We should make this thing right and do the right thing. I asked about the kids, and they said to send them back where they came from. That is how this bill got started.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I'm honored to celebrate and recognize the extraordinary work of Lawman Mike Davis. His decades of dedication to Central Texas reflect the hard work and commitment of an admirable public servant. A native Texan, boy scout, sheriff, and Marine, Mike, as both a law enforcement officer and district attorney has lived a life devoted to ideas and causes bigger than himself. As a former judge, I know firsthand the essential role police officers and district attorneys play in maintaining law and order. Despite the challenges, they carry on, strengthened by their resolve to protect and serve. Whether working to serve big cities or small towns, they help preserve our way of life and are the shields that guard us from those lost souls who wish harm to others. While Mike isn't tired of the privilege of service he knows that everything has its season and the time has come to allow the next generation of leaders to take the stage. Stepping away from work won't give him much idle time as he remains a vital part of the Central Texas community and will spend more time with his beloved wife Debbie and their family. Retirement is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new adventure. It is my honor to recognize the selfless service of Mike Davis as he starts this new chapter of his life. On behalf of Central Texas, I thank him for his superb work and wish him the very best.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I am honored to salute the 40- year career of Walt Jordan, Vice President of Governmental Affairs for Oncor Electric Delivery, as he celebrates his well-deserved retirement at the end of December. This native Texan has made lasting impacts on one of our nations most critical industries and has played a key role in ensuring Texas continues to lead in energy innovation and delivery. With his ``can-do'' spirit, genuine personality, and high-minded vision, Walt has been a trusted leader and a fierce advocate for common-sense energy policies not only in Texas but also in Washington, D.C. During his four decades with Oncor, the largest transmission and distribution electric utility in Texas, he brought his tremendous work ethic and commitment to excellence to every challenge his company and state encountered. Heavily involved in the Texas utility industry since 1982, Walt made critical contributions to restructure the Texas electricity market, support renewable energy generation, and enhance infrastructure investments. With a ``no task too big'' approach, Walt shouldered a variety of responsibilities across his illustrious career and has made lasting impacts on this critical industry for the next generation of Texans. Retirement is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new adventure. It is my honor to recognize the service of Walt Jordan as he starts this new chapter of his life alongside his beloved wife Kim and son Luke. On behalf of Central Texas, I thank him for his superb work and wish him the very best.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I'm honored to celebrate and recognize the extraordinary work of John Crutchfield. His eighteen years dedication to his beloved city of Killeen are the reflection of a true and devoted public servant. With his ``can-do'' spirit and high-minded vision, John is a trusted community leader. He brought his tremendous work ethic and commitment to excellence to every challenge he encountered. As President/CEO of the Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce, John won numerous awards and spearheaded many critical projects over the decades such as Texas A&M University Central, Interstate 14, business recruitment, the research park, as well as protecting and growing Fort Hood. He also had a part in setting up the Fort Hood Regional Economic Development Foundation. It's public servants like him that make Killeen the welcoming, successful city that it is. While John isn't tired of the privilege of public service he knows that everything has its season and the time has come to allow the next generation of leaders to take the stage. Stepping away from his office won't give him much idle time as he remains a vital part of the Central Texas community and will spend more time with his beloved wife Sheila and their family. Retirement is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new adventure. It is my honor to recognize the selfless service of John Crutchfield as he starts this new chapter of his life. On behalf of Central Texas, I thank him for his superb work and wish him the very best.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I'm honored to celebrate and recognize the extraordinary work of Major General Pat Hamilton as he transitions into his richly-deserved retirement. His dedication to our beloved nation and his community in Round Rock, Texas is the reflection of a true and devoted public servant. With his altruistic spirit and high-minded vision, MG Hamilton is a trusted leader and proud warrior. Throughout his military career, he brought his tremendous talents and commitment to excellence to every challenge he encountered. His extraordinary work did not go unnoticed as he was awarded our nation's highest honors, including the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star Medal. His efforts have been critical in maintaining the U.S. military's reputation as the world's greatest fighting force. MG Hamilton's commitment to investing his gifts, talents, and abilities to improve his community is a deeply held creed that speaks to the generosity and activism of a true and devoted public servant. His resume tells the story of a man unafraid to contribute both his time and energies to a multitude of organizations that rely on volunteerism and social engagement to make good communities great. His commitment to public service represents the best values of Central Texas. Retirement is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new adventure. It is my honor to recognize the selfless service of Major General Pat Hamilton as he starts this new chapter of his life. On behalf of Central Texas, I thank him for his superb work and wish him the very best.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor Lieutenant Richard W. Yarling, U.S. Navy, retired, of Jarrell, Texas as he celebrates his 100th birthday on October 18. Throughout his long life, LT Yarling has exemplified not only the best in service to his country, but to his community as well. Many go through life wondering if they've made a difference. LT Yarling doesn't have that problem. During WWII, he bravely served in the Navy aboard one of the 175 Fletcher Class destroyers, the U.S.S. Chauncey. His fearless support of our country's interests abroad serves as a clear testament to his dedication to our great nation and to his commitment to serving others. After completing years of tremendous service to his country, he went on to graduate from law school. He continued to serve his community, retiring as a Judge Advocate Corp officer. His work speaks to the devoted and generous spirit of a man who puts the needs of others before those of himself. Over his incredible life, LT Yarling witnessed his nation's brave soldiers defend freedom on foreign shores, watched a humble midwesterner take mankind's first steps on another world, and marveled at technological advances beyond any of his dreams. He saw how America has been defined by extraordinary men and women who fought to make our nation a beacon of hope and freedom, always willing to learn from the past, confront the challenges of the present, and hopeful enough to embrace a better tomorrow. I join LT Yarling's friends and family in applauding the work and service he has provided. I wish him the happiest of birthdays and nothing but health and prosperity in the years ahead.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Travis L. Thomas who became an angel on September 21, 2021. As we reflect on his extraordinary life, my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. Travis dedicated his life to defending our country, keeping the streets safe, and improving his community. After fighting in the Korean War, Travis returned home and continued his life of service with the Department of Public Safety, serving in the Burnet police force before finishing his career as the police chief of both Georgetown and Luling. His devotion to law and order resulted in safer communities that residents are proud to call home. Travis was a stellar and committed volunteer following his retirement in 1998, contributing his considerable talents and energies to a broad array of causes. Travis will be especially remembered for how much he loved the City of Burnet where he was involved in a multitude of civic organizations that allowed him to use his abilities to make Burnet the pride of Central Texas. While I join Travis Thomas's family and friends in mourning his passing, the positive impacts he had on the lives of others will remain in our hearts forever. His presence was a blessing for all who knew him.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Sergeant Theodore Acheson, U.S. Army for his service to both the Army and to causes greater than himself. Throughout his life, he has fought for freedom and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others. As a photographer with the mission to provide unvarnished images of combat, SGT Acheson served in a unique capacity in the Vietnam War, neighboring Thailand, and Korea. Often exposed to enemy fire, he captured gripping images of our nation's heroes. His work, often featured in news broadcasts and publications, combined the skill of a photojournalist committed to capturing life in the moment with the eye of an artist. Following the end of his military service, SGT Acheson moved to Georgetown, TX where he continued contributing his considerable talents and energies to improving the lives of others through his membership and service in numerous charitable organizations supporting young leaders, education, and veterans. A Purple Heart recipient himself, SGT Acheson was instrumental in having Georgetown designated as the First Purple Heart City in Texas. Thanks to his tireless efforts, Georgetown has made it easier for veterans to get the health services they have earned and reminds our heroes that they are not alone nor forgotten. SGT Acheson's commitment to stand by and support our nation's veterans and their families exemplifies the very best of Texas values. I commend SGT Theodore Acheson's incredible service to the Army, his nation, and his community. His patriotism, citizenship, and devotion to others makes him a worthy recipient of a Congressional Veterans Commendation.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I'm honored to present Lieutenant Colonel John E. Byrne, Jr., U.S. Army, Retired with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. It is a privilege to salute an exemplary soldier and citizen for his lifetime of service. In his nearly three decades of military service, LTC Byrne served across the globe, including overseas during the Vietnam War. Throughout his years of duty, he deservedly received numerous military honors. Among these are the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and the Vietnamese Armed Forces Honor Medal. His fearless support of our country's interests serves as a clear testament to his dedication to our great nation and to his commitment to serving others regardless of their nationality or origins. LTC Byrne closed out 27 years of military service in 1996. Since then, he has become an avid volunteer. He has exemplified great altruism in lifting up his community, from donating more than 100 units of blood, to serving as a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus, to donating a kidney to a friend. He also remains active within St. John Vianney Catholic Church and selflessly spent eight years on its Finance Committee. One of his most admirable acts of service is his role as a Victim Service Advocate where he provides comfort to victims of tragedy and death. As he did during his military service, he has worked tirelessly to put others first. I commend LTC Byrne's selfless service to his community and nation. His patriotism, citizenship, and commitment to excellence are among of his many commendable qualities that make him so deserving of this award. I join his friends and family in celebrating his outstanding achievements, and I thank him for his service.