John Carter

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I recently flew in a C-130 with a gathering of my colleagues and members of the Senate the length and breadth of Florida, across the Gulf of Mexico, and up and down the Gulf Coast of my home State of Texas and looked at the devastation that, in 1 day, on about a 12-hour flight, we could see all the devastation that took place from these terrible storms. That is why this supplemental is so very important, because this is not about numbers, this is not about anything; it is about people, human beings. We helped people move their ruined furniture out of their houses when we were on that trip. We saw the devastation. We saw the tears and the pain that these people were dealing with. As chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, I am proud to have had a small part in working on this project. Let me explain that the supplement provides $28.6 billion for the Department of Homeland Security; $27.5 billion is for the Disaster Relief Fund to provide for the continued response and recovery efforts for all recent disasters. These funds will provide for the recovery efforts of all disasters that have received a major disaster declaration, to include, Texas, Florida, California, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This money is needed to ensure food, water, and temporary shelter is made available to disaster survivors. These funds are used for debris removal efforts, the first step in recovery. These funds will also support the long-term recovery efforts to help rebuild utilities, bridges, roads, and buildings. $4 billion of this can be used for community disaster loans to help communities pay for essential services while they get back on their feet.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. The bill also includes $1.1 billion to address the damages to important Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, and Transportation Security Administration facilities. The supplement provides $4.4 billion more than requested, but we looked at each project to ensure that funding was only going to projects that address damages, improve resiliency, and increase disaster responses. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Frelinghuysen for his leadership. He has been right on top of this, and we have got a good product here. Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote on the supplemental.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding time to me. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this 2-week continuing resolution. This short-term CR is a necessary stopgap to keep the government operating until we can finalize an agreement for the top line numbers and finish our work on all 12 appropriations bills. As some of my colleagues have noted, the House Appropriations Committee completed its work several months ago, passing all 12 of the bills out of this Chamber back in September, about 80 days ago. The other Chamber has not made the same progress, and the resolution before us today will buy us a little time to negotiate with our counterparts who are behind. Once our budget deal is done, we will be able to begin those negotiations, and I am very confident we will be able to quickly finish our work. I cannot overstate the importance of getting all 12 appropriations bills conferenced and across the line, but I would be remiss if I did not emphasize the critical operations funded in my bill. A final FY18 bill for the Department of Homeland Security is necessary to ensure our Nation is safe, secure, and resilient against terrorism and other threats. Mr. Speaker, the American people count on us to get the job done. I urge my colleagues to support this short-term CR to avert a government shutdown and allow us to complete our work.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the amazing work of Yovanna Browne who is retiring at the end of this year. Yovanna, who worked in my Temple, TX District Office, is as dedicated a public servant as any Member of Congress could hope for. Lauded throughout her career for her tenacity and attention to detail, she's been a mission-critical member of every place she's worked. Yovanna's resume is a testament to a life devoted to public service. Two decades were spent working for a variety of offices in both the Army and Navy, where she received numerous commendations from both branches. Another decade was dedicated to Central Texas College, her alma mater, and working to ensure soldiers could navigate the complex Tricare program. Luckily for Central Texas, Yovanna spent the last twelve years as a Lead Case Worker in my Temple Office. District office staff have as challenging a job there is in public service. They often deal with constituents who are at their wits' end and have lost faith in the government that is supposed to serve them. Yovanna's combination of empathy and expertise have helped countless Central Texans navigate the often-challenging world of government agencies and services. She treats all with kindness and respect, lending a thoughtful ear to their concerns while staying focused on how to best be of assistance. Her extraordinary efforts, commitment to excellence, and skillful work has enabled my Temple office to serve my constituents at the high level they deserve. While my office is losing Yovanna to a richly-deserved retirement, she'll always be a member of the Carter family and a shining example of the best in public service. I join my staff, and all those who've been impacted by her commitment to excellence, in wishing her nothing but the best in the next chapter of her life.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I thank Mr. Bilirakis and Mr. Walz for rising in support of this. When Mr. Nelson and his family came to me with this, the first thing I thought was: That is the dumbest thing I have ever heard. You have a child, waiting to give you a live kidney in a transplant, and he is eliminated as a donor because he is not a veteran. It is hard enough to find live transplants as it is. And common sense by everybody who ever knew anybody who got one knows: the best source is a family member because it has got the best chance for a match and the best chance for success. Yet the VA had a limitation that he had to be a veteran. Now, what are the chances of all your family being veterans when all of a sudden you have renal failure and have to have a kidney? They have got to be off the wall, and that is ridiculous. So, Mr. Speaker, I filed this bill to correct this mess. My colleague has given a great description of what happened to the Nelsons. But, more importantly, common sense--and I like the mention of that--tells us that you can't eliminate the best pool of donors that a family has because of their lack of being a veteran. And we all know--we heard Mr. O'Rourke say previously--we are down to about 1 percent of our Nation actually serves in the military anymore. So this is a commonsense fix for a commonsense problem. Mr. Speaker, I am really proud of my staff. They have worked really hard on this. They stayed at it and stayed at it. We got the attention of the VA, and I am happy for their cooperation. I want to thank the committee. They were overwhelmingly supportive on both sides of the aisle. I urged my colleagues to fix a commonsense problem and allow a son to give a kidney to his father at a facility that is most convenient to the family, which is all common sense, so that our veterans, who have given their all for us, have the right to have the best healthcare available to American citizens, and that is what this bill will provide. There was such a good explanation by my colleagues that I didn't go into the details. But I just want to tell you that when you have a constituent come in with a commonsense problem, we have a duty and a responsibility to fix it because common sense is in short supply in Washington, D.C.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the service and achievements of an esteemed and valued citizen of Killeen, Texas. Colonel Raul Villaronga, U.S. Army Retired, has dedicated himself to serving his community and is an embodiment of the Army values of honor, loyalty, and selfless service. He is a deserving recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His commission as an Infantry 2nd Lieutenant in 1959 began his 24 years of service in which he completed assignments in Fort Bragg, the Panama Canal Zone, Vietnam, Germany, and Fort Hood. While assigned to the 8th Special Forces Group, he participated in numerous classified Mobile Training Teams in Central and South America. COL Villaronga deservingly received awards including the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, and the Meritorious Service Medal as a testament to his exemplary service. COL Villaronga is a respected citizen serving in numerous roles showcasing his commitment to community and nation. Returning from the Army, COL Villaronga served three terms as Mayor of Killeen. As Mayor, he founded the Killeen Youth Advisory Commission and worked on the Joint Use Agreement for the Robert Gray Army Airfield. As Chairman of the Killeen League of United Latin American Citizens Council 4535 Foundation, COL Villaronga has been responsible for the donation of over $175,000 in scholarships for local graduating seniors. He continues to serve veterans in his community alongside his wife. His tireless efforts have made Central Texas a place that we're proud to call home. COL Villaronga's patriotism and commitment to service reflect the very best values of Central Texas. He is a hero who has devoted his life to defending our freedoms abroad and serving his community at home. I join his wife, Julia, along with his family and friends in wishing him the best in the years ahead.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sergeant Larry Bush, United States Marine Corps. SGT Bush's extraordinary commitment to his country, his community of Jarrell, Texas, and his service in the Marine Corps reflects the best values of Central Texas. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. SGT Bush began his career in the Marine Corps by serving in the Vietnam War in 1969. His deep commitment to serving his country can be seen through his extensive list of medals and awards, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Rifle Expert Badge. After leaving the Marines in 1975, SGT Bush lived his life for the betterment of Jarrell and its citizens. He served his community in the City Council for six years, the Economic Development Board for two years, and as Mayor of the City of Jarrell since 2014. His commitment to community doesn't stop with elected office. SGT Bush is a devoted member of several advisory boards including water, roads and finances, as well as the Williamson County Road Bond Program. Committed public servants like him have made Jarrell a great place to live and work. SGT Bush deserves to be celebrated, as he is a man of intelligence, compassion, and integrity. With admiration and deep respect, I pay tribute to SGT Bush for his service to our country and the lasting impact he has had on his community and beyond.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor First Lieutenant Phillip Duprey of the United States Army for his dedication and service to our country. 1LT Duprey's extraordinary patriotism, citizenship, and commitment to community and service reflects the best values of Central Texas. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. During his deployment to Vietnam, Phillip Duprey faced grave and mortal danger while conducting intelligence collection as a member of the Army Security Agency for the IV Division of the 101st Airborne Division. 1LT Duprey's leadership, dedication, and bravery undoubtedly saved the lives of many. For his service and valor in combat, 1LT Duprey received numerous medals including the Bronze Star and the National Defense Service Medal. 1LT Duprey's service and sense of duty did not finish with the end of his military career. Upon returning to the great state of Texas, 1LT Duprey dedicated his civilian life to the uplifting and betterment of his community. As a highly respected citizen, he is active in numerous community organizations, including twenty-two years on the Cedar Park Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he served on the Cedar Park City Council for six years, the last two as Mayor pro tem. 1LT Duprey has dedicated himself to serving his community and is an embodiment of the Army values of honor, loyalty, and selfless service. For these reasons and many more, his community came together to honor 1LT Duprey as Cedar Park Citizen of the Year in 2000 and 2014. I commend First Lieutenant Phillip Duprey's selfless service to the U.S. Army, the nation, and his community. He is a hero who has devoted his life to defending our freedoms abroad and serving his community at home. I join 1LT Duprey's family, friends, and neighbors in celebrating his outstanding achievements.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Major Barry Richard, United States Air Force, Retired. Maj. Richard, who answered the call to defend our great nation for 20 years, continues to dutifully serve his community of Georgetown, Texas in civilian life. An exemplary serviceman and citizen, it is my honor to award Maj. Richard with the Congressional Veteran Commendation. His military service began in 1968 where his skills were utilized in various capacities as an engineer, pilot, and manager. He wore many hats during his years with the Air Force, including working as a technical design engineer for modifications to EC-135 aircraft and Hound Dog Air-launched missiles, as pilot and rated staff officer, and as Chief of numerous Air Force Safety Units. Maj. Richard saw much combat, and as a testament to the quality of his service, he received numerous awards including the Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and numerous Commendation Medals. Maj. Richard's love of country is matched only by his commitment to his fellow service members. After the end of his service in 1988, he and his friend Staff Sergeant Jim Harrell, United States Marines Corps, have worked to improve the lives of veterans in Williamson County. Maj. Richard has contributed to building wheelchair ramps and making considerable home improvements to the homes of local veterans in need. This dignified work has made a lasting impact on the community he proudly serves. I commend Maj. Barry Richard's selfless service to the United States Air Force, his nation, and his community. His patriotism, citizenship, and commitment to excellence reflect the very best values of Central Texas. I join his friends and family in celebrating his outstanding achievements.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the accomplishments of Staff Sergeant James Harrell, U.S. Marine Corps, who served his country and continues to selflessly serve his fellow veterans and his community following his retirement He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. SSG Harrell served six years in the United States Marine Corps, including two tours in Vietnam. During his service, SSG Harrell was a recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, including the Marine Combat Action Ribbon. After being Honorably Discharged, SSG Harrell returned to Texas where he rose to become the Assistant Chief Deputy for Williamson County's Sheriff's Department. SSG Harrell's love for his country is matched only by his commitment to his fellow service members. After recognizing the needs of our county's less fortunate veterans, SSG Harrell joined his good friend Major Barry Richard, United States Air Force, Retired to help over twelve Williamson County veterans by rebuilding homes, bringing them up to code, doing repairs, and more for over five years. Together, they've made real and lasting impacts on the lives of their fellow veterans. SSG Harrell serves his fellow men with the same dedication, honor, and humility with which he defended his country. He exemplifies what it means to be an American, consistently placing his country and fellow men before himself. I thank and commend SSG Harrell, a passionate leader with a servant's heart, for his dedication and service.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Corporal Pete Aranda, Jr., U.S. Army, a decorated soldier from Round Rock, TX. In all aspects of life, CPL Aranda goes beyond the call of duty. It is my honor to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation. CPL Aranda enlisted in the Army in 1988 and served a short stint in the 3/64 Armor, 3rd Infantry Division in Germany. He then deployed in the spring of 1991 as a medic to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait. As testament to the quality of his service, CPL Aranda received numerous medals and commendations, including the Combat Field Medical Badge, Expert Field Medical Badge, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Medal, and two Southwest Asia Campaign Medals. A true patriot, Corporal Aranda continued to honorably serve after his discharge from active duty as a Respiratory Therapist at the 349th General Hospital, U.S. Army Reserve. In 1995, CPL Aranda returned home to Port Arthur, Texas where he worked for the Beaumont Health Department. In civilian life, CPL Aranda has served those around him with boundless altruism. His commitment to his community can be seen through his involvement in and leadership of many organizations, including the Greater Houston Red Cross, Camp Allen, the Talking Book Program and the Texas Stream Team. CPL Aranda's tireless efforts have touched the lives of many and have helped make Central Texas a place people are proud to call home. A reflection of the best values of our nation, CPL Aranda's service to his community and country has made a resounding impact on those around him. I thank CPL Pete Aranda, Jr., a leader with a servant's heart, for his dedication and service.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Staff Sergeant Rufus Honeycutt, USMC, for his dedication and commitment to our country. SSG Honeycutt's extraordinary devotion to community and service reflects the best values of Central Texas. He is a fitting and worthy recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. SSG Honeycutt enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1960, and spent six years proudly defending his country. His military career included wartime deployment with the first combat unit to see action in Vietnam and earned him numerous awards and medals including the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for Vietnam Service. Following his military career, Rufus has served those around him with boundless altruism and exemplary leadership. A profoundly respected pillar of the Round Rock community, SSG Honeycutt has dedicated his time to numerous community organizations, including six years of service on the Round Rock City Council. He continues to support fellow veterans by providing transportation to the VA, working as the Blood Drive Coordinator at Ft. Hood, and much more. He has volunteered countless hours in his community, and has consistently placed his neighbors' needs before his own. For these reasons and many more, his community carne together in 2002 to honor Rufus Honeycutt as Round Rock Citizen of the Year. SSG Honeycutt is a hero who has devoted his life to defending our freedoms abroad and serving his community at home. Dedicated public servants like him make Central Texas a great place to live. I join his family and friends in saluting his honored work and commitment to our country.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor First Sergeant Will Williams, U.S. Army, Retired, of Round Rock, Texas, for his selfless dedication and service to our nation and his continued, unparalleled contributions to his community. I am honored to award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Following his enlistment in 1976, SGT Williams contributed 24 years of service that included deployments from Panama and Somalia, to Desert Shield and Desert Storm as an Army Ranger, Small Weapons Specialist with the 2nd Division. His commitment to keeping our nation safe is in his blood. Three generations of his family served in combat roles in the United States Army, and among the three they share 4 Bronze Star Medals. SGT Williams' service and sense of duty did not culminate with his military service. Upon returning to Round Rock, SGT Williams dedicated his civilian life to the uplifting and betterment of his community. In 2013, he helped raise $50,000 for Dell's Children's Hospital and over $10,000 for the Ronald McDonald House. In Round Rock, SGT Williams organized a food drive, sent out a care package to deployed soldiers, and provided clothing and supplies to 300 foster kids through Project Care. His service has been recognized and appreciated throughout the community. SGT Williams was recognized with the Service to Mankind Award by the Round Rock Sertoma Club, received the Leadership Award from the ``Heart of Texas Award'' organization, and was honored with the Governor's Lone Star Achievement Award from Texas Governor Greg Abbott. I commend First Sergeant Will Williams' selfless service to his community and nation. His commitment to excellence and citizenship reflect the best values we hold as Americans. I join his family, friends, and colleagues in saluting his great work and dedication to our country.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the service and achievements of an esteemed and valued citizen, Captain Dennis DeWine, U.S. Army. He has dedicated himself to his community and nation and is an embodiment of the Army values of honor, loyalty, and selfless service. CPT DeWine is a fitting and worthy recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. CPT DeWine joined the Army in 1967, graduated Helicopter Flight School in 1968, and spent the next seven years as a helicopter pilot; twenty months of which were two tours of duty in Vietnam. As a testament to his valorous service in Vietnam, the President of the United States presented CPT DeWine with the Distinguished Flying Cross award for his actions above and beyond the call of duty. After being Honorably Discharged CPT DeWine was inducted into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame for Valor. CPT DeWine's leadership skills have been invaluable throughout his post-military career. After rejoining civilian life, he became the founder, broker, and president of ERA Colonial Real Estate and Colonial Residential Properties, Inc. Despite his busy schedule, CPT DeWine remains dedicated to serving his community. He can often be found in jeans and boots working alongside his friends and neighbors. CPT DeWine's passion to serve is evident through his participation and leadership in numerous organizations, such as Central Texas Voices for Life, where he serves as Chairman. CPT DeWine has also proven his commitment to serving others through his company's efforts to successfully raise $100,000 for Muscular Dystrophy. Despite his business and charitable commitments, CPT DeWine has found time to raise a closeknit family, volunteer in community organizations, and remain active in his church. With admiration and deep respect, I pay tribute to Dennis DeWine for his sacrifices and the lasting impact he has had on his community and country

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Captain Skip Blancett, USN, Retired of Salado, Texas. With a career spanning over two decades, CAPT Blancett is a true patriot, a faith-filled citizen, and unquestionably a deserving recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. CAPT Blancett joined the Navy at age 29 and was stationed in Guam, where he helped fulfill the spiritual needs of others. CAPT Blancett went on to serve his country in eight other stations around the world, with duties ranging from Public Affairs Officer, to teaching a course in the Naval War College, to furthering the spiritual state of his fellow sailors through various tactics with the Chaplain Corps. CAPT Blancett's love of country is matched only by his commitment to his community. Upon retirement, the call to serve continued to burn inside. CAPT Blancett has gracefully served as Mayor of Salado since 2014 where he has been a champion of the Village's growing economy and its hard-working citizens. He is beloved by the Village of Salado for his leadership, commitment to faith, and passion for his community. CAPT Blancett serves the people of Salado with the same dedication, honor, and humility with which he served his country. He is an exemplary man who shows the utmost commitment to his family, community, and above all, his faith. May we all follow the example of great men such as CAPT Blancett, and live a life of hard work, loyalty and service to others.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lieutenant Colonel Gery Brent Truitt, U.S. Army Retired, of Harker Heights, Texas, for his dedication to our country while serving 25 years in the Army. LTC Truitt exemplifies what it means to commit his life to his country and has more than earned our admiration and respect. He is a deserving recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Upon his commissioning as a Second Lieutenant from Sam Houston State University in 1979, LTC Truitt began his military career as an Infantry Officer with the Texas National Guard and then entered the United States Army. As Lieutenant, he conducted more combat patrols inside the Korean demilitarized zone than any other officer in the 2nd Infantry Division, and as Major, he served in a variety of 5th Special Forces Group assignments. Just prior to being promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, he was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer, which he successfully overcame in the next year. LTC Truitt used that time to revive the Columbus State University ROTC Program as a professor in Military Science. This brave soldier is also a committed citizen. Following his military career, he continued to support the military in the Central Texas Special Forces Association. As President, he is responsible for an annual raffle that raises thousands of dollars annually to support homeless veterans' programs and local non-profit organizations to meet immediate community needs. His work to make his community a great place to live and work have made lasting and positive impacts on the region. I commend LTC Truitt's selfless service to his community and nation. His dedication to our country and community reflects the best values of central Texas. I join his family and friends in saluting his great work and dedication to our country.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lieutenant Colonel Patrick J. Christ, U.S. Army, Retired, from Harker Heights, Texas, for his dedication to our country while serving over two decades in the Army. LTC Christ exemplifies what it means to commit his life to his country and community; he is a deserving recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. LTC Christ has shown sincere dedication throughout his 23 years in the Army. His commitment to serving his country can be seen through his extensive list of medals, including the Southwest Asia Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. In addition to his superb work defending our nation, LTC Christ held important leadership positions in the Military Officers Association of America and the Association of the United States Army. After retiring from the U.S. Army in 1992, LTC Christ continued to dedicate his time to worthy causes. He has served as a city council member in the city of Harker Heights, on the Board of Directors for Hill Country Transit, and the Chamber of Commerce. LTC Christ lives a life dedicated to other veterans in his area by working closely with the Area Veterans Advisory Committee and by founding the Harker Heights Veterans' Council. LTC Christ is thoroughly involved in many sports organizations in his area, namely the Tri-County Soccer Club and the T.J. Zimmerman Soccer Tournament which he holds leadership positions in, as well as many other soccer associations. LTC Christ has logged hundreds of volunteer hours in many organizations, including as Admiral of the Texas Navy for Governor Rick Perry. Community activists like him make Central Texas a great place to live and work. I commend LTC Christ for his service to his community and country. I join his family and friends in saluting his dedication to our country, and being an embodiment of Central Texas values.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the accomplishments of Staff Sergeant James Harrell, U.S. Marine Corps, Retired, who served his country and continues to selflessly serve his fellow veterans and his community following his retirement. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. SSG Harrell served six years in the United States Marine Corps, including two tours in Vietnam. During his service, SSG Harrell was a recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, including the Marine Combat Action Ribbon. After being Honorably Discharged, SSG Harrell returned to Texas where he rose to become the Assistant Chief Deputy for Williamson County's Sheriff's Department. SSG Harrell's love for his country is matched only by his commitment to his fellow service members. After recognizing the needs of our county's less fortunate veterans, SSG Harrell joined his good friend Major Barry Richard, United States Air Force, Retired to help over twelve Williamson County veterans by rebuilding homes, bringing them up to code, doing repairs, and more for over five years. Together, they've made real and lasting impacts on the lives of their fellow veterans. SSG Harrell serves his fellow men with the same dedication, honor, and humility with which he defended his country. He exemplifies what it means to be an American, consistently placing his country and fellow men before himself. I thank and commend SSG Harrell, a passionate leader with a servant's heart, for his dedication and service.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the service and achievements of an esteemed and valued citizen of Killeen, Texas. Colonel Raul Villaronga, U.S. Army Retired, has dedicated himself to serving his community and is an embodiment of the Army values of honor, loyalty, and selfless service. He is a deserving recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His commission as an Infantry 2nd Lieutenant in 1959 began his 24 years of service in which he completed assignments in Fort Bragg, the Panama Canal Zone, Vietnam, Germany, and Fort Hood. While assigned to the 8th Special Forces Group, he participated in numerous classified Mobile Training Teams in Central and South America. COL Villaronga deservingly received awards including the Silver Star, the Bronze Star Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Meritorious Service Medal as a testament to his exemplary service. COL Villaronga is a respected citizen serving in a number of roles showcasing his commitment to community and nation. Returning from the Air Force, COL Villaronga served three terms as Mayor of Killeen. As Mayor, he founded the Killeen Youth Advisory Commission and worked on the Joint Use Agreement for the Robert Gray Army Airfield. As Chairman of the Killeen League of United Latin American Citizens Council 4535 Foundation, COL Villaronga has been responsible for the donation of over $175,000 in scholarships for local graduating seniors. He continues to serve veterans in his community alongside his wife. His tireless efforts have made Central Texas a place that we're proud to call home. COL Villaronga's patriotism and commitment to service reflect the very best values of Central Texas. He is a hero who has devoted his life to defending our freedoms abroad and serving his community at home. I join his wife, Julia, along with his family and friends in wishing him the best in the years ahead.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Staff Sergeant Rufus Honeycutt, USMC, Retired for his dedication and commitment to our country. SSG Honeycutt's extraordinary devotion to community and service reflects the best values of Central Texas. He is a fitting and worthy recipient of a Congressional Veterans Commendation. SSG Honeycutt enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1960, and spent six years proudly defending his country. His military career included wartime deployment with the first combat unit to see action in Vietnam and earned him numerous awards and medals including the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for Vietnam Service. Following his military career, Rufus has served those around him with boundless altruism and exemplary leadership. A profoundly respected pillar of the Round Rock community, SSG Honeycutt has dedicated his time to numerous community organizations, including six years of service on the Round Rock City Council. He continues to support fellow veterans by providing transportation to the VA, working as the Blood Drive Coordinator at Ft. Hood, and much more. He has volunteered countless hours in his community, and has consistently placed his neighbors' needs before his own. For these reasons and many more, his community came together in 2002 to honor Rufus Honeycutt as Round Rock Citizen of the Year. SSG Honeycutt is a hero who has devoted his life to defending our freedoms abroad and serving his community at home. Dedicated public servants like him make Central Texas a great place to live. I join his family and friends in saluting his honored work and commitment to our country.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor First Sergeant Will Williams, U.S. Army, Retired, of Round Rock, Texas, for his selfless dedication and service to our nation and his continued, unparalleled contributions to his community. I'm honored to award him a Congressional Veterans Commendation. Following his enlistment in 1976, SGT Williams contributed 24 years of service that included deployments from Panama and Somalia, to Desert Shield and Desert Storm as an Army Ranger, Small Weapons Specialist with the 2nd Division. His commitment to keeping our nation safe is in his blood. Three generations of his family served in combat roles in the United States Army, and among the three they share 4 Bronze Star Medals. SGT Williams' service and sense of duty did not culminate with his military service. Upon returning to Round Rock, SGT Williams dedicated his civilian life to the uplifting and betterment of his community. In 2013, he helped raise $50,000 for Dell's Children's Hospital and over $10,000 for the Ronald McDonald House. In Round Rock, SGT Williams organized a food drive, sent out a care package to deployed soldiers, and provided clothing and supplies to 300 foster kids through Project Care. His service has been recognized and appreciated throughout the community. SGT Williams was recognized with the Service to Mankind Award by the Round Rock Sertoma Club, received the Leadership Award from the ``Heart of Texas Award'' organization, and was honored with the Governor's Lone Star Achievement Award from Texas Governor Greg Abbott. I commend First Sergeant Will Williams' selfless service to his community and nation. His commitment to excellence and citizenship reflect the best values we hold as Americans. I join his family, friends, and colleagues in saluting his great work and dedication to our country.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the service and achievements of an esteemed and valued citizen, Captain Dennis DeWine, U.S. Army, Retired. He has dedicated himself to his community and nation and is an embodiment of the Army values of honor, loyalty, and selfless service. CPT DeWine is a fitting and worthy recipient of a Congressional Veterans Commendation. CPT DeWine joined the Army in 1967 as a helicopter pilot and spent the next seven years flying over the treacherous skies of Vietnam. As a testament to his valorous service, the President of the United States presented CPT DeWine with the Distinguished Flying Cross award for his actions above and beyond the call of duty. After being Honorably Discharged CPT DeWine was inducted into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame for Valor. CPT DeWine's leadership skills have been invaluable throughout his post-military career. After rejoining civilian life, he became the founder, broker, and president of ERA Colonial Real Estate and Colonial Residential Properties, Inc. Despite his busy schedule, CPT DeWine remains dedicated to serving his community. He can often be found in jeans and boots working alongside his friends and neighbors. CPT DeWine's passion to serve is evident through his participation and leadership in numerous organizations, such as Central Texas Voices for Life, where he serves as Chairman. CPT DeWine has also proven his commitment to serving others through his company's efforts to successfully raise $100,000 for Muscular Dystrophy. Despite his business and charitable commitments, CPT DeWine has found time to raise a close-knit family, volunteer in community organizations, and remain active in his church. With admiration and deep respect, I pay tribute to Dennis DeWine for his sacrifices and the lasting impact he has had on his community and country.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Harvey took a lot away from us, but it couldn't take away who we are as Texans. It has shown our resilience and brought our communities closer together as we rebuild. I am very proud of our volunteers and first responders who have shown hospitality and heroism to support our neighbors in need. When disaster struck, Texans came from across the State to help our communities rebuild and recover from this storm. In my district, central Texans set up evacuation shelters and donated clothing and other necessary supplies. Our soldiers at Fort Hood and our local fire and rescue teams headed southeast to assist in lifesaving recovery missions because that is what Texans do: we come together to support one another. I know we will continue to work together as we rebuild after Harvey and in the face of anything that comes our way. By the way, a great big Texas thank-you to all our neighbors from across the United States who also came to help. Our hearts go out to those recovering disaster areas in Florida, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and all other communities in need of help. Let's do it together. God bless Texas.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the supplemental bill for Hurricane Harvey relief. This bill will provide $15.3 billion in emergency funding, including $7.4 billion for FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund, $7.4 billion for Community Development Block Grants to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and $350 million to support the Small Business Administration's Disaster Loan Program to assist small business and homeowners. This supplemental bill is not only a critical first step to provide basic needs of food, shelter, and water for those in immediate need, but it also provides initial funding to begin the process of rebuilding and recovery for those communities devastated by Hurricane Harvey. Further resources and hard work will be required. I will continue to work closely alongside my colleagues and the Appropriations Committee to meet the present and emerging needs of our neighbors across the Southeast. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by these devastating storms. This bill addresses the urgent needs of those affected by Hurricane Harvey. It sends a powerful message to all that we are here for them and we will be working hard for them throughout the recovery. Mr. Speaker, I strongly encourage a vote on this bill. As an aside, I grew up in Houston, Texas. I was born there, I grew up there. I remember floods, but I never remember floods that washed away people's homes and their livelihood. This is a once-in-a-lifetime situation down there, may we all pray, and it is time to get it done.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I only want to lay out that there is a potential very large cost once this door is opened. That is my opposition to this. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.