John Carter

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I'm honored to present Sergeant First Class Ken Cates, U.S. Army and U.S. Coast Guard, Retired with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and devotion to the military, his nation, and his community speak to the best of our Texas' altruistic spirit. Heeding the call to serve, SFC Cates entered the military in 1988. During this time, he completed many heroic missions which included over 120 emergency combat responses as Operations Center Manager, 150 coordinated executive leader engagement missions, and 15 natural disaster responses. Throughout his military career, he applied his tremendous talents and energies to the defense of our great nation. SFC Cates closed out twenty-seven years of military service in 2015. While many would embrace a life of retirement, he still displays his loyal and selfless nature by providing aid to Veterans in the Fort Hood Area. SFC Cates currently works for the Fort Hood Area Habitat for Humanity and is working to support a veterans housing establishment in his area. His commitment to investing his gifts, talents, and abilities to improve his community has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, Cates was named a ``Hometown Hero'' by the Harker Heights Chamber of Commerce and the 2019 NEXEN Hero. I proudly join SFC Ken Cates' friends, family, and colleagues in saluting his selfless service to the military and his beloved Texas home. His work brings to life Gandhi's words. that ``The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.'' I congratulate SFC Ken Cates and than him for his service.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I am honored to present Captain Richard J. Archer, U.S. Army with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and devotion to the Army, his nation, and his community speak to why CPT Archer is an ideal recipient of the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Fulfilling the call to serve, CPT Archer first began his service in 1966 after graduating and commissioning from Central Michigan University's ROTC program. He continued to command ``C'' Company during his assignment at the 2nd Armored Division at Fort Hood and later served with the 13th Corps Support Command before being honorably discharged from the Army. CPT Archer closed out nine years of military service in 1975, and since then he has distinguished himself as a valuable community member in Temple, TX. While many would choose to take time for themselves, CPT Archer continues to employ his talents to his community. His public service and devotion to others include, but are not limited to, his involvement with the Marine Corps Junior ROTC program at Belton High School, his membership with the 13th COSCOM Association, his representation on the Veteran's Land Board for 21 counties, and the aid he provided by establishing various associations and groups like Emeritus Medicus. His allegiance to investing his talents and abilities to help better his community and nation represents the best of Texas values. I proudly join CPT Richard J. Archers' friends, family, and colleagues in saluting his selfless service to the Army and Central Texas. His life and career reflect hard work and dedication to what is best for his fellow man.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of First Sergeant Gene Davenport, U.S. Army, Retired, and recognize him for the Congressional Veteran Commendation. His resume tells the story of one unafraid to do whatever it takes to support his fellow man. 1SG Davenport dedicated 20 years of his life to defending our country, which included two tours in Vietnam. In recognition of these unselfish efforts throughout his career, he received numerous military honors, including a Bronze Star, a Vietnamese Gallantry Cross with Palm, 5 Army Commendation Medal, and 6 Good Conduct Medals. His support of our country's interests abroad serves as a clear testament to his dedication to our great nation. 1SG Davenport has been a stellar and committed volunteer in every one of his communities following his active-duty service. He's given his considerable talents and energies to a broad array of organizations and causes, ranging from officiating high school football games, volunteering at local hospitals, and mentoring tomorrow's leaders, to supporting his fellow warriors in the Marine Corps League and the Leander VFW Post 10427 where he's worked tirelessly to support veterans in need. I join 1SG Davenport's friends and family in celebrating his selfless service to both his community and nation. He is a worthy recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I am honored to present Sergeant Major Rodney Wayne Gilchrist, U.S. Army, Retired with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. SGM Gilchrist embodies the true meaning of selflessness, which is evident through his service and commitment to our nation as well as his community. SGM Gilchrist first began his service in 1986. During this time, he completed a multitude of tasks that have displayed his allegiance to our nation. His profound leadership skills are indicated by roles during his service such as the Advanced Noncommissioned Officers Course Small Group Leader for his Military Occupational Specialty. This position speaks to the innate craftsmanship of his leadership skills, as he mentored and trained 175 Senior Noncommissioned Officers to a ninety-nine percent graduation rate. SGM Gilchrist closed out 24 years of military service in 2010 but continued to contribute his time to the people of his community. His devotion is exhibited in countless ways, but one of the most notable acts to his community is his creation of the Liberty Christian Center of Killeen. As pastor, he has guided this center to be of service to community members of Killeen, giving free haircuts, clothing, and meals to any person in need. As a man of deep faith, SGM Gilchrist's commitment to investing his talents, and abilities to improve his community is a deeply held creed that speaks to the generosity and activism of a truly devoted public servant. I proudly join SGM Rodney Wayne Gilchrist's' family, friends, and colleagues in saluting his selfless service to the military and Texas. His work has made a real and lasting difference in the lives of his fellow citizens.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I am honored to present Captain Joseph F. Kiefer, Jr., U.S. Air Force with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Throughout his life, he's worked to put the needs and interests of others first. During his years of military service, Capt. Kiefer held multiple vital positions. He served in Vietnam as part of the 2nd Aerial Port Group, displaying meticulous attention and professionalism in his work. He went on to distinguish himself as the Chief of Tactical Operations Branch at Langley Air Force Base where his outstanding leadership was known to directly enhance the readiness posture of all active duty assigned to the Tactical Air Command. Along with defending our nation, public service has been a driving force in Capt. Kiefer's life. A pillar of Central Texas, he dedicates his time and energies to his local community with roles ranging from a Narcotics and Criminal Investigator to President of the Temple Lions Parks and Charities. It's true and devoted public servants like Capt. Kiefer that make Central Texas a great place to call home. I commend Capt. Kiefer's selfless service to his community and nation. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation and I celebrate his service.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Rear Admiral David Lee Maserang, U.S. Navy, Retired, who has dedicated his life to the Navy and health community alike. A humanitarian, leader, and patriot, it is my honor to award him with the Congressional Veteran Commendation. During his 34 years of military service, RADM Maserang directed numerous health initiatives in the United States, Africa, and many other countries that bettered communities around the globe. Additionally, RADM Maserang used his expertise to enhance homeland security by increasing preparedness for chemical and biological attacks. These contributions, and many others, have been invaluable, with lasting effects felt around the world. Today, he continues his lifelong devotion to service through community volunteerism with organizations such as the United States Naval Academy, the First United Methodist Church, and the Rotary Club. He has spearheaded efforts to support the next generation of warriors, our veterans, and the young people of Texas. His leadership and commitment to excellence exemplify the highest ideals of service. I commend RADM Maserang's selfless work on behalf of his community and nation. His patriotism, citizenship, and commitment to excellence are unmatched. I join his friends and family in celebrating his outstanding achievements, and I thank him for his service.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jason Shaw, U.S. Army, Retired for the Congressional Veteran Commendation. His life and career reflect hard work, activism, and dedication to what is best for Central Texas. CW2 Shaw spent 20 years serving our country, spending time in both Iraq and Afghanistan. As a pilot, he was an invaluable asset to his unit, the task force, and the brigade. His contributions and dedication to our nation cannot be overstated. As a pilot he was invaluable and, at every step along the way, his talents and work ethic were devoted to the protection of our nation. Upon retirement from the Army, CW2 Shaw committed his energies to community service. He is a Life Member of VFW Post 10472 and is active in the Leander Chamber of Commerce. He has worked tirelessly to ensure residents have a rich quality of life by using his expert knowledge on the city's water supply and infrastructure to ensure the long-term growth of the city, which he holds near to his heart. His legacy speaks to the highest values we Texans hold dear. I proudly join CW2 Jason Shaw's friends, family, and colleagues in saluting his selfless service to the Army and Texas. He is a local treasure, a champion for others, and a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I really wish I was here expressing my support for the fiscal year 2022 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies bill, because it includes funding for many important construction projects and programs for veterans. But, unfortunately, I cannot support the bill for three reasons. The responsibility of the Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies is to provide adequate resources for our servicemembers, ensure that we fulfill the promises America made to our veterans, and be good stewards of tax dollars. While this bill includes funding for many priorities, including child development centers, barracks, suicide prevention programs, and electronic health records, it is not part of a bipartisan funding framework that appropriately allocates funding between defense and nondefense programs. The bill also drops two restrictions on funding that have protected Americans from the transfer of detainees, terrorists, to the United States for more than 10 years. There is no reason to allow these terrorists on U.S. soil. They need to remain in Guantanamo Bay and pay for their heinous crimes. Finally, I oppose the majority party's attempt to force hardworking citizens to pay to end unborn human life. The Hyde amendment protects every American from seeing their tax dollars used to fund something that is the exact opposite of the American value of life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. It is simple. Congress must maintain the Hyde amendment. Despite my concerns, I think we can resolve our differences, address these issues, and provide responsible levels of funding for the next fiscal year. In closing, I want to thank Chairwoman Wasserman Schultz for her work on this bill and stewardship of the Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies. Along with the staff, she has personally worked to address many requests from all Members in this bill. Also, I thank Ranking Member Granger and Chairwoman DeLauro for their support.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, while I unintentionally missed the vote on rollcall 156, I would have voted no.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I voted in error on rollcall 143. I mistakenly voted no when I intended to vote yes.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I'm proud to honor and celebrate the Taylor Rotary Club's century of extraordinary service. Founded on May 10, 1921 by twenty-five charter members, the Club has made lasting and monumental contributions toward making Central Texas a great place to call home. Throughout their century of service, the Club has helped where help is needed--in their own communities and around the world--with unmatched integrity and energy. When the Taylor Rotary Club gets involved, problems get smaller and communities get better. The Club has been instrumental in the creation of public parks, Taylor's first Boy Scout organization, and numerous philanthropic campaigns. Their continued participation in the Baylor Scott and White Blood Drive, Shepherd's Heart Food Pantry, Meals on Wheels, and numerous college and vocational scholarships to local students show the Taylor Rotary Club truly lives out its motto of ``Service Above Self.'' A century after its creation, the Taylor Rotary Club has touched countless lives for the better and continues to make positive impacts on those it's dedicated to serve. I celebrate 100 years of incredible civic involvement and join all Central Texas in wishing this great organization nothing but the best in the decades to come.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate my longtime friend Bob Phillips III who went to be with his Savior on March 5, 2021. As we reflect on his extraordinary life, my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. Blessed with a fierce intellect, Bob excelled at law school and went on to become one of Texas' premier attorneys. As a retired judge, I've seen many lawyers in practice and Bob, a tireless advocate for his clients, was one of the best. His was a life of devotion to causes bigger than himself. I was blessed to share a Bible study with Bob where he taught, rejoiced in, and worked to make the lessons of the gospel attainable to all. Like his beloved Savior, Bob did not come to be served, but to serve, and the teachings of Christ guided Bob throughout his life. While I miss him here on Earth, I know he is in Heaven with the Son of Man who gave his life as a ransom for many. Bob never shied away from coaching little leaguers or future attorneys and always rejoiced in thoughtful debate and good conversation. Throughout their joyous relationship, Bob and Jeanne, the love of his life, lived, loved, and prospered as one. Proud parents of five children and grandparents of seven, they kept family at the center of their lives. Bob's love of the game of baseball and his zeal for the gospel of Jesus Christ were two of the many legacies Bob passed down to his children, grandchildren, and so many others who were blessed to know him. While I join Bob Phillips' family and friends in mourning his passing, the positive impacts he had on the lives of others will remain in our hearts forever.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the work and service of Bobby Withrow. His efforts on behalf of veterans and those in need reflect the very best of Texas values. Since 2015, Bobby has coordinated and managed over 50 benefits and fundraisers for a host of community needs, ranging from supporting veterans and cancer patients to assisting those in their hour of need. For Bobby, there's no task too big or too small. Whether it's supporting those who've served, feeding thousands that are hungry, assisting non-profits with fundraising, or rolling up his sleeves to help families with home maintenance, Bobby's not afraid to take on the challenges of helping others. Public servants like Bobby Withrow make Central Texas a place that residents are proud to call home. I salute his efforts and am forever grateful for his contributions to veterans and those in need.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I'm honored to celebrate and recognize the extraordinary work of Harker Heights, TX Councilman John Reider. His eighteen years of dedication to his beloved city 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. It's public servants like him that make Harker Heights 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, operating a successful property management company with his beloved 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 Reider 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, it is my pleasure to honor retired Lieutenant Commander William DC Jones of Temple, Texas as he celebrates his 100th birthday on December 11. In his century of living, LTC Jones has exemplified not only the best in service to his country, but to his community as well. 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. During WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, LTC Jones bravely served as a pilot, aerial observer, and member of the Department of the Army Inspector General's Office. His work did not go unnoticed as he earned many awards and decorations for his patriotism including the Legion of Merit, two Bronze Stars, and a Meritorious Service Medal. After retiring in Temple, the very place he grew up, LTC Jones continued to service his country and community through the Temple Golden K Kiwanis Club, the Temple Community Concert Association, and civic organizations. His work speaks to the devoted and generous spirit of a man who puts the needs of others before those of himself. I join LTC Jones' friends and family in applauding the work he has done and service he continues to provide. 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 am proud to honor Wes and Judy Pierce, two incredible members of our Central Texas community who have devoted their energies and talents toward providing support and aid to our incredible servicemembers, veterans, first responders, and their families. Originally from Illinois, Wes and Judy married in April 1987. Their journey from child rearing to becoming proud grandparents led them to Texas in 2001. After having five of their own sons serve in the military, Wes and Judy became increasingly aware of the unmet needs of our returning veterans. Through their own children's difficulties with accessing and finding resources, Heroes Night Out was born. Heroes Night Out is a non-profit community-based organization that is dedicated to enhancing and supporting servicemembers, veterans, first responders, and their family members through programs and services in a caring and safe environment enhanced by the contributions of peers and battle buddies. HNO can quickly address the unique situations they experience by creating an immediate and trusting relationship. Having nurtured Heroes Night Out into a valued part of the Central Texas community, Wes and Judy are passing the torch to a new generation of leadership. Their richly-deserved retirement is to be celebrated and enjoyed. I proudly join their friends and colleagues in gratitude for their enormous contributions to those who work and sacrifice so much for us.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I'm honored to celebrate and recognize the extraordinary work of Belton, TX Mayor Marion Grayson. After seven years of extraordinary work to her beloved city, Mayor Grayson retired on November 10, 2020. Her commitment to public service represents Texas values at their best. Not only was Marion the first female Mayor of Belton, but under her steady and forward-looking leadership, Belton has seen exponential changes that have improved the quality of life for all and put the city on the track for continued growth in the future. Mayor Grayson's work with Belton's parks and recreation including the Nolan Creek project and the restoration of beloved public infrastructure demonstrates that she is truly for the people and improving the lives of those around her. Not only did she enhance the roads of Belton, but she also worked to improve everything from water quality to performing arts education. In her wake, Mayor Grayson leaves behind a city, civic organizations, and elected officials all better off due to her involvement. She has brought her tremendous work ethic and commitment to excellence to every challenge she has encountered. It is officials like her that make the City of Belton the welcoming, successful city that it is. I salute her leadership, congratulate her on her retirement, and wish Mayor Marion Grayson nothing but the best in the years to come.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Joe Williams, a great Texan who became an angel on July 24, 2020. I salute his lifetime of service and join his loved ones in mourning his loss. Joe's dedication to both nation and family reflect the values we hold dear in Central Texas. A fellow graduate of Texas Tech University, he spent a lifetime working in and advocating for the retail and groceries industries. Starting in the 1960's, Joe spent 24 years at Mrs. Baird's Bakeries--Bimbo Bakeries USA, before serving as president of the Gulf Coast Retailers Association beginning in 1994 until its merger with the Texas Retailers Association in 2006. Joe finished his career with the Texas Retailers Association as Vice President for Regulatory and Member Services and head of the Texas Food Council. A tireless champion for the food sector, Joe played a key leadership role in several industry-related organizations, including the American Leadership Forum, Food Industry Association, Food Industry Association Executives Board of Directors, Texas Interagency Task Force for EBT, and the Texas Attorney General's Employer Task Force. He also served on the advisory board for The University of Houston's Retailing and Consumer Science Department and was appointed to USDA's Maternal, Infant, and Fetal Nutrition National Advisory Council, which he chaired in 2006. Joe's advocacy wasn't limited to the interests of the food industry. He also served as the President of his community's Municipal Water District and served many years on the Board of a local non-profit (SEARCH) that works with the homeless, and in addition served on the Board of The Greater Houston Chapter of the Red Cross. His work at these organizations speaks to the devotion of one committed to service. In addition to his leadership in the business and philanthropic community, Joe was a loving husband of more than 50 years to Jackie, father to Jeremy and Jo Leigh, and a proud grandfather. He was a dear friend and mentor to many in both Texas and well beyond our borders. While we mourn Joe Williams' passing, his presence was a blessing for all who knew him. The positive and lasting impacts he had on the lives of others will remain forever in our hearts.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about division D of H.R. 7608, the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill for fiscal year 2021. Throughout my time in Congress, I have focused on three things: soldiers, their families, and veterans. It is an honor to serve as the ranking member of the appropriations subcommittee that has their interests in the forefront of our minds. Overall, I strongly support the funding provided for military construction projects. I am pleased the bill includes funding for the services' unfunded priorities: privatized military housing, resilient and energy-efficient installations, and cleanup of contaminated sites. On a bipartisan basis, the bill increases funding for women veterans, mental health and homeless programs, and supports construction of new VA facilities. Veterans have earned special attention for their service and sacrifice. In many ways, this bill helps to fulfill our promises to them. However, unfortunately and regretfully, I must express my opposition to H.R. 7608. Less than a year ago, we agreed to the 2019 Bipartisan Budget Act. I believe it is irresponsible to designate some funding as emergency just to avoid the caps set by that act. This is especially true since we all acknowledged the growing costs of veterans' healthcare programs when we agreed to the budget deal. I recognize the budget realities we face, but we should not unravel that agreement through this year's appropriations process. I am also concerned that this bill includes provisions that limit the President's ability to address the national emergency on our southern border. Regardless of one's position, the fact remains that cartels and criminal gangs take advantage of our political disagreements and continue to flood our Nation with dangerous and illegal drugs and exploit and traffic men, women, and children seeking a better life. This is unacceptable. While I oppose the final passage of the bill, I believe that the committee can continue to work together to fund programs important to soldiers, their families, and veterans in a responsible manner. In closing, I would like to thank my subcommittee chairwoman, Ms. Wasserman Schultz, for her dedication to our subcommittee and its responsibilities. Also, I want to thank Chairwoman Lowey for her service and leadership in this Congress, and I want to thank Ranking Member Granger for her support and commitment to enacting responsible spending bills.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, more than two weeks ago, I called for more funding for the Paycheck Protection Program, which has provided more than 1.6 million loans to small businesses across the country. I strongly support rapid passage of the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act to support small businesses and our nation's health care professionals. With this fourth Coronavirus response package, we have secured an additional $310 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program, and $60 billion for Economic Injury Disaster Loans, to help more small businesses survive and continue to pay their employees. In order to reopen our country, more testing must be made available so Americans can safely return to their normal lives and jobs. There is a dedicated $25 billion in this legislation to prepare and ramp up necessary testing to equip state and local decision makers with critical information to reopen our communities and reignite our economy. Finally, the $75 billion in additional funds will help hospitals and health care workers on the front lines continue to take care of those that are battling this illness. It is critical that Congress continue working in a bipartisan manner to provide aid, relief, and economic security to the nation. With this in mind, I oppose passage of a resolution to establish a select subcommittee that is duplicative, unnecessary, and most likely a politically motivated tool to attack the President during an election year. Continuing to work across the aisle to provide our country the resources it needs is the only way forward. I remain grateful to the incredible health care professionals, first responders, and essential service employees who are working tirelessly to keep our nation healthy. I also salute Americans who are following guidelines and doing their part to flatten the curve for not only their own health but for their neighbors. The past few weeks have seen our nation unite to fight the Coronavirus. While these times have been challenging for all, I know that we will get through this.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, as the Coronavirus continues to sweep across our nation, there is nothing more important to me than the health and safety of the American people. I strongly support rapid passage of the CARES Act to accelerate much-needed resources to our nation's health care professionals and provide critical aide to Americans, small businesses, and families. As Ranking Member of the MilCon/VA Appropriations Subcommittee, I am proud to have worked on securing $19.6 billion for veterans' programs to help combat COVID-19. I'm honored to represent the largest population of veterans in Texas and am committed to ensuring Congress continues providing top-level care to the brave men and women who have sacrificed to keep our nation and free, many of whom are at-risk of serious complications should they contract COVID-19. In this challenging time, it is critical that Congress continue working in a bipartisan manner to provide aid, relief, and economic security to the nation. Continuing to work across the aisle to provide our country the resources it needs is the only way forward. I am grateful to the incredible health care professionals, first responders and essential service employees who are working tirelessly to keep our nation healthy. I also salute Americans who are following guidelines and doing their part to flatten the curve for not only their own health but for their neighbors. Together, we will get through this.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I celebrate the extraordinary work and legacy of Charly Skaggs, who has led a life of continual service to the state of Texas. His leadership, vision, and commitment to hard work has made a difference to countless lives within Williamson County. Charly's three-plus decades of public service have helped grow the juvenile services department in Williamson County into the program it is today. Knowing the hardships of being a small department with limited resources, Charly devoted his leadership abilities to staying on the cutting edge of programs and brought a state-of-the-art juvenile service department to his beloved community. His efforts speak to the dedication of an innovator unafraid to embrace the challenges of today in order to make a better tomorrow. Throughout his life, Charly has unselfishly devoted countless hours to help others with teambuilding workshops and to volunteer efforts that serve the youth in his community. As Como Santa, he's beloved by children of all ages as he works to support the military community of Central Texas during the holiday season. His commitment to investing his gifts, talents, and abilities in service of his nation is a deeply held creed that speaks to the generosity of a true and devoted leader. Many go through life wondering if they've made a difference; Charly Skaggs doesn't have that problem. He's led Williamson County to new heights and has helped lead many individuals into a brighter future. I salute his work, congratulate him on his achievements, and wish him nothing but the best for his well-deserved retirement.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I salute the extraordinary career of Mike Stanford as he retires from a lifetime of civic involvement. Mike devoted nearly four decades of incredible service to communities throughout the State of Texas through his career in the television industry. With his ``what can I do to help?'' spirit and high-minded vision, he's made Central Texas a model for child-focused community outreach. A pillar of the Texas community, Mike has devoted years of selfless service to help those in need. Through his tireless work and altruistic leadership, he created Camo Santa that focused on providing toys for soldier families in financial need. Mike's contributions. to his community doesn't stop there. He has organized several programs to help serve others, such as numerous Dallas Cowboys Charity events, Wednesday's Child, Criswell's Kids, and Adopt a Pet. Mike's dedication to service and hard work has helped make a difference in many lives from providing children with basic supplies to helping those impacted by natural disasters. His generous activism speaks to the very best of Texas values. Mike's commitment to the highest standards of excellence has not gone unnoticed. Recognized by his colleagues for his devotion and hard work, he has achieved a long list of accolades, including four Emmy Awards, twelve Addy Awards, the Dallas Press Club's Katy Award, as well as high recognition from the Texas Association of Broadcasters as recipient of the Bonner McClain Service Award. Mike's resume speaks to an innovator unafraid to do what it takes to excel in a demanding profession. Mike Stanford's generous commitment to helping others serves as an inspiration for all to follow. There's no doubt that Central Texas is a better place because of him. I heartily salute his work and wish him the best of luck in his richly deserved retirement.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor Davis S. Welch as he retires following 38 years of distinguished service to the Army and the nation. Throughout his extraordinary career, he embodied the duty, honor, and loyalty that makes the U.S. Army the world's premier fighting force. Davis' commitment to investing his gifts, talents, and abilities in service of his nation is a deeply held creed that speaks to the generosity and activism of a true and devoted patriot. Throughout his career, he earned numerous academic and military accolades, including the Legion of Merit, that garnered the respect and admiration of his peers. Davis was instrumental in balancing immediate needs within resource constraints while expertly and expeditiously funding peacetime and war-related Theater, Joint, and Operational Needs Statements. His resume tells the story of a man unafraid to embrace the challenges that forge the leaders our nation needs. For near four decades, Davis positively impacted all those around him, while zealously safeguarding the sanctity of our public accounts and our public trust. We have all benefited from his extraordinary guidance, judgment, and character. His dedicated service has greatly contributed to the security of this Country, and of free peoples around the world. 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 and sacrifice of Davis Welch as he starts this new chapter of his life. On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank him for his superb work and wish him the very best.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Madam Speaker, it is a fundamental ideal of our republic that every American receives justice under the law. As a Member of this body, we are required to uphold that ideal, and as a former judge, I was tasked with the same responsibility. What I have seen throughout this impeachment process is far from justice. In fact, this process has lacked impartiality, respect for the United States Constitution, and fairness. When I was on the bench, I instructed every jury the same way. I told them that ``what someone heard from another source other than what they directly observed is not evidence.'' Rumors and hearsay are not evidence under our laws, and it certainly shouldn't qualify as evidence in this chamber. The evidence presented by the Majority in this case is entirely hearsay and therefore, should be inadmissible. In fact, the only direct evidence presented to this body is the transcript of President Trump's telephone call with the Ukraine President. The Constitution is clear--treason, bribery, high crimes and misdemeanors are impeachable offenses, and the evidence presented does not meet those standards. Impeachment is one of the most serious acts that Congress will undertake. It is not to be taken lightly or to be used as a political weapon against those you disagree with, but unfortunately, that is where we find ourselves today. For that reason, I will not support the articles of impeachment and I also ask my colleagues to reflect on one thing: in light of what you have observed about the process used to charge the President, are we upholding justice? I think not.