John Carter

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, last night, tragedy struck a small town in central Texas. Little River Academy is a very small town outside of the largest town of Temple in Bell County, Texas. The chief of police, Lee Dixon, was killed in the line of duty while responding to a routine disturbance. There is an investigation ongoing, and I am confident, as a former judge and having personal knowledge of the judiciary of that county and the makeup of the juries, that justice will be served in this case. I ask this House to keep the family of Chief Lee Dixon in their thoughts and prayers as they go through this time in a very small, but important town, in Bell County, Texas.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, as cosponsor of this bill and chairman of the Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4228. Over this past year, I have aggressively called for a reform agenda to address the evolving needs of DHS. This bill tackles one of the most urgent, the need to reform DHS acquisitions. These reforms are much needed and long overdue. I sincerely appreciate Chairman McCaul's and subcommittee Chairman Duncan's collaboration on this effort. I urge a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Chairman, I would point out that this law pertains only to the southwestern border States and that my friends from Connecticut and New York are not affected by this rule. There is no reason why you can't buy long guns in New York or in Connecticut and ship them down to the border. This is discriminatory against four States and four States only. It is bad policy. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Chairman, law-abiding Americans shouldn't have to sacrifice their right to privacy to exercise their Second Amendment rights because they live in the southwestern part of the United States. I don't understand why they want to take the people who stand on the border and take this onslaught of the failure of the administration to defend and prosecute those who violate the laws of our country, and they want to have something that imposes upon our right to privacy and our right to exercise our Second Amendment rights. Law enforcement tools are not taken away by the fact that we have limited this intrusion upon the rights of the people in the States that are on our southwestern border. In fact, law enforcement has the right to at any time walk into a Federal firearms dealer and request any sales records, and they mandatorily must provide them. A bouncer can walk into a Federal licensed firearms dealer and get these records every day. The amendment doesn't prohibit gun dealers from reporting multiple sales of purchases. It just doesn't mandate on four States of this Union a violation of their right to privacy. The playing field should be level in anything we do under the law. But the fact is we are unleveling the playing field for the very people that stand down in the direct onslaught of the invasion coming across our southern border as a result of this administration's failure to properly enforce immigration policy. This is something that we shouldn't even be discussing, limiting the ability and making reporting requirements on four States and involving their right of privacy contrary to the rest of the union. I don't understand why this is even being discussed. I oppose the attempts to toss out the Second Amendment rights of the people of the State of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition.

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Chairman, I want to point out that this recordkeeping is directed at multiple rifle and shotgun sales of a semiautomatic character. It becomes a habit around here to call anything that will fire six shots when you pull the trigger an assault rifle. In fact, this requires the reporting of semiautomatic shotguns, as well as of semiautomatic rifles. People all over the United States--and particularly in our State--hunt every day with these weapons. Families have these weapons in their homes. They are not assault weapons. They are semiautomatic shotguns and rifles. This reporting requirement is on those weapons, and it doesn't say anything about assault weapons. I question the logic of this whole thing when we are talking about the privacy of the individual under the Second Amendment and about the right for Americans to keep and bear arms. Therefore, I think that the language that is in place today is the right language for the policies of the United States. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Royce Schertz who will graduate as a Second Lieutenant from the U.S. Air Force Academy on May 28, 2014. While his time at the academy is coming to an end, there's no extended summer vacation in store for him. Lt. Schertz has been accepted into the prestigious pilot school program which starts three weeks later. While the Academy's aviation programs give cadets the opportunity to fly in both powered and unpowered aircraft, learn advanced parachuting skills, and compete against students from colleges around the world, only the elite move on to the pilot school program. Lt. Schertz's next year will be focused and devoted to the program as his time will be filled flying and preparing for flights. Taking control of the most advanced aircraft in the world--and pushing their performances to the limit--requires extraordinary skill, precision, and commitment to mission accomplishment. All of these are attributes Lt. Schertz has shown time and time again. At the Academy, Lt. Schertz distinguished himself as both a scholar and a leader. A regular presence on the Dean's List, he also found time to support and motivate his classmates, raise funds for charity, and host foreign exchange students. In addition to his intense military training, Lt. Schertz devoted many hours to community service and was a key member of the Academy's competitive athletic programs. All this was atop an academic workload that challenges our nation's best and brightest. Lt. Schertz's dedication to excellence displays the best values of central Texas and is a reflection of the greatness of the men and women of our armed forces. I commend his achievements, celebrate his commitment, and wish him well in the future. I'm grateful that brave young men like him will be providing our nation's security in the years to come.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the fantastic public service of Belton, TX Mayor Jim Covington as he begins the next exciting chapter of his life. Recognizing the importance of allowing younger leaders a chance to make a positive impact, Jim is stepping down from his nearly two decades of dedication to making Belton a great place to live and work. Under Jim's leadership, Belton escaped the cycle of ``management by crisis'' by adopting forward-thinking strategic policies. Reviewed annually and updated every five years, these plans have put Belton on the right track. As a result, Belton has seen its population grow as the city has been repeatedly honored with awards from the Texas Municipal League, the prestigious Preserve America Presidential Award in 2008, and a Scenic City Award in 2010. Jim's tenure was dedicated to making Belton's natural beauty his top priority. Nolan Creek winds through the heart of Belton and connects many important areas of the city including three major parks, the University of Mary Hardin Baylor, and the historic downtown area. Recognizing this uncut gem flowing through his city, Jim worked tirelessly to improve and promote this critical waterway. His vision will dramatically enhance the quality of Belton life by offering a unique recreational corridor with watersports opportunities while promoting strong economic development. Widely admired and respected for his leadership, Jim has been a mayor both his colleagues and constituents could rely upon. His commitment to public service doesn't end when he leaves the office. A proud part of the larger Fort Hood community, he's been involved in troop support for years. 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 Jim Covington for his selfless service to his beloved community. I wish him only the best in the years ahead.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I was absent from votes earlier this week in order to attend the memorial services held for the victims of the tragic shooting at Fort Hood, TX, last week. Had I been present, I would have voted as follows: April 7, 2014: Rollcall No. 165, Motion to Recommit H.R. 1872--``nay.'' Rollcall No. 166, Passage of H.R. 1872--``yea.'' April 8, 2014: Rollcall No. 167, Motion to Recommit H.R. 1871--``nay.'' Rollcall No. 168, Passage of H.R. 1871--``yea.'' Rollcall No. 169, Ordering the Previous Question on H. Res. 544-- ``yea.'' Rollcall No. 170, Adoption of H. Res. 544--``yea.'' April 9, 2014: Rollcall No. 171, Substitute Amendment No. 1--``nay.'' Rollcall No. 172, Substitute Amendment No. 2--``nay.'' Rollcall No. 173, Substitute Amendment No. 3--``nay.'' Rollcall No. 174, Passage of H.R. 4414--``yea.''

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a true American hero. A native son of Puerto Rico, Sgt. Felix Conde-Falcon volunteered to join the Army in 1963 and was soon stationed in Texas at both Fort Bliss and Fort Hood. He settled in the Lone Star State with his wife and young family before answering the call to fight for freedom in Vietnam. On April 4, 1969, while serving as platoon leader in the vicinity of Ap Tan Hoa, Vietnam, Sgt. Conde-Falcon showed extraordinary leadership under heavy fire as he took out multiple enemy positions. While his heroic actions saved the soldiers serving with him, he was shot and killed just as he eliminated the final bunker. He was laid to rest in Rogers, TX. Nearly a half century later, Sgt. Conde-Falcon was awarded the Medal of Honor. Reserved for personal acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty, it is our nation's highest military tribute. Were Sgt. Conde-Falcon still with us, generals, admirals, and fellow warriors of all ranks would honor the hallowed custom of saluting him. This simple gesture of respect, admiration, and courtesy speaks volumes about the reverence shown to Medal of Honor recipients. Were Sgt. Conde-Falcon still with us, he would know how grateful his nation is for his service, his heroism, and his commitment to duty. He'd know how admired he is by his fellow soldiers. Because of his valor, many of his platoon brothers were able to return home. Some would honor promises made in the jungles of Vietnam and spend decades tracking down Sgt. Conde-Falcon's family to let them know of his bravery, leadership, and the impact he had. Were Sgt. Conde-Falcon still with us, he would have seen his family grow and prosper. His children carried on the tradition of proud service in the military. His son Richard would receive the Medal of Honor on his behalf. Sgt. Conde-Falcon's name, like those of over 58,000, is enshrined forever in black stone at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Those extraordinary men and women, from a multitude of races, faiths, and backgrounds, fought for a country brave enough to confront its past imperfections and hopeful enough to embrace a better tomorrow. His story, like all of theirs, was one of sacrifice and devotion to freedom. There is no more deserving recipient of the Medal of Honor than Sgt. Felix Conde-Falcon. Despite a life cut short, this brave warrior's patriotism, valor, and commitment to service reflect the very best of both America and Central Texas. May his legacy remind us of the values and freedoms we must never cease to defend.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the founding of Wag-A-Bag convenience stores. One of central Texas' most beloved institutions, Wag-A-Bag is celebrating a half century of service to the Lone Star State. First opening in 1964, Wag-A-Bag stores were the brainchild of Virg and Nancy Rabb. A true innovator, Virg realized that the rural small towns that dotted the Texas landscape needed convenience stores. My home town of Round Rock, TX had just 1800 residents, no traffic lights, and no police force when the first Wag-A-Bag store was built. Since opening, Wag-A-Bag has enjoyed continuous but cautious growth. One store grew to nineteen and they expanded locations to Hutto, Pflugerville, Georgetown, Liberty Hill, and Austin. Each store has become an essential part of the fabric of community life. Wag-A-Bags have been the site of first jobs, last minute stops for ingredients before dinner, and countless cups of coffee to start the day. Proudly a family business, Wag-A-Bag still operates under the guidance of Nancy Rabb and her son Cary, who stepped in following Virg's death in 1998. They also devote resources to making a difference and are committed partners with numerous civic and school organizations. With its exemplary customer service as well as its commitment to being a contributor to the Central Texas community, Wag-A-Bag is truly an American success story. I wish their founders and employees a happy 50th birthday and all the best in the years ahead.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I would like to ask the House to join me in a moment of silence and hopefully prayer for the Fort Hood community and all those families of the injured and dead at Fort Hood today.

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, yesterday afternoon, tragedy struck the heart of Texas at Fort Hood, which we know as ``The Great Place.'' A gunman whose motives we do not understand took the lives of three American soldiers and wounded 16 more before taking his own life. Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, this is not the first time Fort Hood has had to endure a tragedy like this. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the Fort Hood community. We pray for a speedy recovery to the wounded and extend our deepest condolences to the friends and families of those soldiers who lost their lives. We stand ready to provide any and all assistance we can to support Fort Hood, the soldiers serving there, and the surrounding community. Now I yield to my good friend and colleague and ally in supporting this incredible community which we both have the honor to represent, Congressman Williams.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Lieutenant General William N. Phillips, United States Army for his extraordinary dedication to duty and selfless service to our nation as the Military Deputy Director to the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology. Lieutenant General Phillips will retire after 38 dedicated years and exceptional service to this Nation. Mr. Speaker, let me be the first to say that there is no mission too great for this incredible individual. Bill's tremendous vision, leadership, and dedication to excellence has ensured our beloved Soldiers fighting on behalf of the Nation have always had and will continue to have well into the future, the most technologically advanced and reliable equipment whenever and wherever they need it most. A true champion for Soldier's and their Families, his efforts have proven to be exponential and his example unwavering. Lieutenant General Phillips earned his commission as a Field Artillery Officer in the United States Army from Middle Tennessee State University and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant on the first of July, 1976. Excelling in a multitude of positions spanning from Army aviator to defense procurement and contracting expert, Lieutenant General Phillips has performed at an elite level in business, academia, and combat. He humbly served with great pride as a warrior and scholar. Lieutenant General Phillips' assignments have been some of the most challenging and diverse his profession has to offer. He served impeccably in positions to include but not limited to: the Commanding General, Joint Contracting Command-Iraq/Afghanistan in Baghdad, Iraq, the Commanding General of Picatinny Arsenal in the great State of New Jersey, as well as the Program Executive Officer for Army Ammunition, and the Deputy Program Executive Officer for Army Aviation. Mr. Speaker it is my honor to recognize the selfless service of Lieutenant General William ``Bill'' N. Phillips as he proceeds into the next chapter of his life. Bill is leaving a legacy that will be remembered for the years to come. On behalf of a grateful Nation, I join my colleagues today in recognizing and commending Lieutenant General William N. Phillips for almost four decades of tremendous Service to his Country in the United States Army. I wish Bill and his loving and dedicated wife Marilyn Phillips, the very best as they begin their new journey that is sure to be filled with continued success and adventure.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Keifer Marshall, Jr., recipient of the Drayton and Elizabeth McClane Community Achievement Award for individuals who truly exemplify public service leadership. Marshall's life of sacrifice and activism reflects the very best values of central Texas. Marshall, a native son of Temple, TX, bravely stepped forward when his country needed him most and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during WWII. Stationed in the Pacific Theater, he fought the ferocity of the Japanese head on. At Iwo Jima, the casualties of his company were the severest of the entire campaign. Out of 250 Marines, Marshall was one of the lucky few to survive. This proud Marine is also a committed citizen. Marshall returned to Temple and began the next chapter of his life of extraordinary service. A member of numerous councils and boards, he later became a City Councilman and a two-term Mayor. Marshall was President of the Temple Chamber of Commerce, was commissioned a Kentucky Colonel, and was awarded Temple Citizen of the Year honors in 1992. He remains a respected leader who's made a real and positive impact on his community. Ronald Reagan once said, ``Some people live an entire lifetime wondering if they've made a difference in the world, Marines don't have that problem.'' Keifer Marshall is a local treasure and a fitting recipient of the Drayton and Elizabeth McClane Community Achievement Award. I join all who celebrate his selfless service to his nation and his hometown.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Lieutenant Colonel John Rafferty of the United States Army for his extraordinary dedication to duty and service to our nation at the Deputy of the Army House Liaison Division on Capitol Hill. Lieutenant Colonel Rafferty will soon transition to the Legislative Director for the Commander of the International Security Assistance Force in Kabul, Afghanistan. Army Congressional Liaison officers provide an invaluable service to both the military and Congress. They assist Members and staff in understanding the Army's policies, actions, operations, and requirements. Their firsthand knowledge of military needs, culture, and tradition is a tremendous benefit to Congressional offices. A native of Great Falls, Virginia, Lieutenant Colonel Rafferty enlisted in the Army in 1987 and served in Germany with the 8th Infantry Division. Two years later, he left the active Army to return to college and pursue a commission as an Army Officer. He received his commission as Second Lieutenant in the Regular Army as a Field Artillery officer. During the next twenty years, LTC Rafferty served in a variety of tactical assignments, including service in 1st and 3rd Battalions of the 75th Ranger Regiment, staff officer in the 25th Infantry Division, command of two artillery batteries in the 1st Armored Division, and command of 1st Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division. Along with becoming an Army Ranger and Master Parachutist, he served multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, he was selected as an exchange officer for the U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Warfare School and for the United Kingdom Joint Services Command and Staff College with the British Military. Lieutenant Colonel Rafferty is both warrior and scholar. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from Longwood College, a Master of Arts in Defense Policy from King's College-London, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. His devotion to his country is matched only by his commitment to family. Lieutenant Colonel Rafferty is married to the lovely Tracey Lowery Rafferty. They're proud parents of a thirteen-year-old daughter, Erin, and a twelve-year-old son, Evan. Lieutenant Colonel Rafferty's great work has not gone unnoticed. His military awards include the Combat Action Badge, Expert Infantry Badge, three Bronze Star Medals, and the Iraq and Afghanistan Campaign Medals. He was inducted into the Honorable Order of Saint Barbara and is a Distinguished Member of both the 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment and 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the selfless service of Lieutenant Colonel John Rafferty as he proceeds into the next chapter of his remarkable career and continues to serve the United States of America. I wish him the best as he continues to serve our great Nation and proceeds to the next chapter in his remarkable career.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 90th birthday of General Robert Shoemaker, U.S. Army, Retired. Through a lifetime dedicated to service, General Shoemaker continues to make extraordinary contributions to both the security of his nation as well as to improving the quality of life in Central Texas. He was born February 18, 1924 and grew up in eastern Michigan. Following graduation from West Point in 1946, General Shoemaker was commissioned in the Infantry. His brave service of nearly 40 years in both the 1st and 2nd Infantry Divisions as well as the 82nd Airborne Division saw numerous tours of duty in Vietnam, various commands, as well as achieving the elite status of Army Aviator. General Shoemaker rose to the highest levels of the military and was promoted to four star general and led the U.S. Army Forces Command. Known as FORSCOM, this command consists of more than 750,000 soldiers, nearly 90 percent of the Army's combat power, and provides expeditionary, campaign- capable land forces to combatant commanders. Under his steady leadership, FORSCOM held fast and true to its motto as ``Freedom's Guardian.'' Bringing to life Patton's maxim ``the soldier is also a citizen,'' General Shoemaker settled in the Fort Hood, TX area following his 1982 retirement and began the next chapter of his life of extraordinary service. Knowing firsthand of the importance of education to military communities, he worked tirelessly to establish Texas A&M University-- Central Texas near Fort Hood. He served eight years as an elected Bell County, TX Commissioner. Important civic organizations sought his tremendous leadership skills and General Shoemaker served as President and advisor to numerous entities, including the 1st Cavalry Division Association, the Heart of Texas Council of the Boy Scouts, and the Fort Hood Chapter of the United Way. The same commitment to excellence General Shoemaker brought to the Army he also brought to his beloved community. Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have made a difference in the world. General Robert Shoemaker doesn't have that problem. His patriotism, citizenship, and commitment to service reflect the very best values of Central Texas. Let February 18 continue to be a celebration of one of our nation's heroes who devoted his life to keeping us free and making America a beacon of hope in the world. Along with his friends, family, and loved ones, I wish him both a happy 90th birthday and all the best in the years ahead.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Bernita Peeples, the newest honoree of the Yellow Rose of Texas Award for her tremendous legacy as a Texas woman of outstanding volunteer and public service. A pillar of the Belton, TX community, Bernita's life and career is a reflection of hard work, activism, and dedication to bringing news to central Texas. Lucky enough to know what she wanted her life's work to be since she was a young lady, Bernita started her career as a reporter for The Belton Journal during her senior year of high school. In an age when the average worker stays on the job for just over four years, Bernita has been faithfully reporting to her desk for 80 years! While chronicling stories big and small, as well as producing regular and popular columns, she's seen The Belton Journal's circulation climb tenfold. The unofficial historian of Belton, Bernita's truly seen it all. A career that began on a 1927 Royal typewriter witnessed the rise of personal computers, the Internet, and social media to transmit the news. While reporting on 13 presidential administrations, WWII, and nearly a century of American advancement and innovation, she's kept her ear to the ground in Belton, never forgetting the community she calls home. Bernita took breaks from writing and even retired once. But like all who have a calling, she couldn't stay away from her profession and soon returned to journalism. She still has a desk at The Belton Journal office where she writes one feature per week. Even better, she still has the typewriter with which she started her career. Bernita's work doesn't stop when the paper has gone to the printers. She's involved in many organizations, including the Bell County Historical Commission and 1874 Church Restoration, for which she posed on a motorcycle for a 2010 calendar. She didn't miss a meeting of the Belton Rotary Club for 19 years and she was the first woman to receive the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Citizen award. The people of Belton and central Texas are lucky to have Bernita Peeples. She's a local treasure and a fitting recipient of the Yellow Rose of Texas Award. I join all who celebrate her enormous contributions to journalism and her beloved community.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Keifer Marshall, Jr., recipient of the Drayton and Elizabeth McClain Community Achievement Award for individuals who truly exemplify public service leadership. Marshall's life of sacrifice and activism reflects the very best values of central Texas. Marshall, a native son of Temple, TX, bravely stepped forward when his country needed him most and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during WWII. Stationed in the Pacific Theater, he fought the ferocity of the Japanese head on. At Iwo Jima, the casualties of his company were the severest of the entire campaign. Out of 250 Marines, Marshall was one of the lucky few to survive. This proud Marine is also a committed citizen. Marshall returned to Temple and began the next chapter of his life of extraordinary service. A member of numerous councils and boards, he later became a City Councilman and a two-term Mayor. Marshall was President of the Temple Chamber of Commerce, was commissioned a Kentucky Colonel, and was awarded Temple Citizen of the Year honors in 1992. He remains a respected leader who's made a real and positive impact on his community. Ronald Reagan once said, ``Some people live an entire lifetime wondering if they've made a difference in the world, Marines don't have that problem.'' Keifer Marshall is a local treasure and a fitting recipient of the Drayton and Elizabeth McClain Community Achievement Award. I join all who celebrate his selfless service to his nation and his hometown.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the artistry and influence of Tex Avery. A leading innovator of a distinctly American form of popular culture, Avery created iconic cartoon characters adored the world over by young and old alike and pioneered a new and lasting approach to animated storytelling. Avery, born in Taylor, TX in 1908, was a man of many gifts: animator, cartoonist, voice artist, director. A central figure during the Golden Age of Hollywood Animation (1935-55), his work was marked by speed, sarcasm, and irony. Collaborating with top shelf artists like Chuck Jones and legendary voice actors like Mel Blanc, Avery created Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Droopy, and developed Porky Pig and Chilly Willy. Youngsters loved their cartoons' action and slapstick; grownups loved the sly dialogue and clever commentary. Avery's artistry reflected the joy of a nation leading the world yet restlessly seeking new ways to express itself. He wasn't afraid to innovate and regularly pushed the boundaries of the cartoon form. His characters would speak directly to the audience, object to the plot of the adventure they were starring in, or leap out of the end credits. Yet Avery understood that cartoons had to be more than just animated hijinx featuring colorful characters. A lifelong perfectionist, he would add or cut frames out of the final negative of a cartoon short if he felt a gag's timing was not precise. Avery's importance to animation cannot be overstated. He saw things differently, changed them, and pushed the art of cartoons forward. His impact is as permanent as the characters he created are beloved. Tex Avery's tremendous legacy will be honored February 22, 2014 by the Taylor, TX Conservation and Heritage Society with a memorial being placed in Heritage Square. I join all who appreciate fearless innovators in celebrating his enormous contributions to animation and American culture.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of Round Rock, TX, Police Chief Tim Ryle. With his retirement approaching, he will soon close out his incredible service to my hometown and begin the next chapter of his life. A native Texan, Ryle carries on the family tradition of law enforcement service into its third generation. He began his career in Round Rock in 1983 and steadily rose through the ranks before being named Chief in October 2011. During his 31-year career, he's seen the Round Rock Police Department grow from a small town police force into a skilled and mobile law enforcement agency capable of providing safety to this rapidly growing city. Ryle understood effective police work at its most basic level. A unifying force for area law enforcement leaders, he brought together the region's chiefs, sheriffs, along with the County and District Attorneys, for regular meetings to coordinate strategies and share best practices. Ryle was among the first chiefs in the nation to implement mandatory physical fitness standards for all officers. Another lasting legacy was his devoted work to fund a public safety training facility. All these achievements have made a real difference in the lives of residents. Chief Ryle led his department with dedication, honesty, and integrity. Due in large part to his leadership, Round Rock is now one of the safest cities in the country. Locals could always sleep well knowing their safety was Ryle's first priority. Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have made a difference in the world; Chief Tim Ryle doesn't have that problem. I join the grateful citizens of Round Rock to wish him only the best in the years ahead.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Chairman Rogers, thank you for the time and thank you, more importantly, for the leadership that you and Ranking Member Lowey have shown in completing this process and giving us a fiscal year 2014 appropriation bill. I rise in support of that bill. Madam Speaker, the Homeland Security division of this bill is built on three themes: funding essential security and enforcement; increasing legitimate travel and trade; and demanding fiscal discipline and accountability. The Homeland Security division includes a nearly 10 percent increase to the CBP officer workforce and nearly 5 percent increase to ICE's investigations and funding to support ICE's statutorily mandated 34,000 detention beds; more than 13 percent increase to privatization of airport screening; nearly 14 percent increase to cybersecurity; a total of $404 million for the National Bio and Agro-Defense facility in Kansas; and significant increases to the Border Patrol assets, Coast Guard operations and acquisitions, Secret Service operations and investigations, FEMA's first responder grants and bombing prevention efforts. In addition, this bill does more to address the wait times, trade and resource shortfalls at our ports of entry, including a landmark provision for a public-private partnership authority and a mandate for CBP to work with industry on performance metrics and improved operational plans at our Nation's busiest airports. However, this bill cuts the overall DHS budget by nearly $400 million below the fiscal year 2013 level, and it holds administrative overhead at 2 percent below the current sequestered level. In addition, the Homeland Security division requires 31 departments to provide expenditure plans, terminates ICE public advocacy programs, zeros out three new headquarters offices, and mandates the most comprehensive accounting in DHS history. Madam Speaker, this is a bill that is worthy of support. I rise in support of this great work and thank both the majority and the minority staffs for their work.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Major John Truax of the United States Army for his extraordinary dedication to duty and service to our Nation. Major Truax and his wife Alaina will be moving on from his present assignment as an Army Congressional Liaison and will soon be reassigned as a Cyber Operations Officer for the Army National Guard. Army Congressional Liaisons officers provide an invaluable service to both the military and Congress. They assist Members and staff in understanding the Army's policies, actions, operations, and requirements. Their first hand knowledge of military needs, culture, and tradition is a tremendous benefit to Congressional offices. Following his graduation from Valley Forge Military College in May 2001, Major Truax was commissioned in the Army National Guard as an Engineer Officer. Major Truax reported to his first operational assignment with Charlie Company, 276th Engineer Battalion in West Point, Virginia where he served as a Platoon Leader and Executive Officer. Following a period of reorganization across the Army, Major Truax transferred branches and became a Military Intelligence Officer. He left his civilian career in management and sales to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from May 2007 to June 2008. During his time in combat, John was responsible for providing security and Area Response Forces in Northern Kuwait as a staff officer in HHC, 2- 183 CAV before assuming command of Alpha Troop. After returning from his tour in Kuwait, Major Truax remained on active duty and was assigned to the Army National Guard Materiel Programs Division in Arlington, Virginia. At the completion of an exceptional four years there, he was selected to represent the Army National Guard in the U.S. House of Representatives as a Legislative Liaison. Major Truax's accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. His awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (1 Oak Leaf Clusters), Army Achievement Medal (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), the Parachutist Badge, and the Army Staff Identification Badge. Mr. Speaker, it has been a pleasure to work alongside Major Truax over the last year. On behalf of a grateful Nation, I join my colleagues in recognizing and commending his dedication to service and the sacrifices he and his family have made. We wish him, his wife Alaina, and their children Xander and Margaux all the best as they continue their journey to his next assignment in the United States Army.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Major David Roman of the United States Army for his extraordinary dedication to duty and service to our Nation. Major Roman and his wife Dymphna will be moving on from his present assignment as an Army Congressional Liaison for the Office of the Secretary of Defense to the 10th Mountain Division in Fort Drum, New York. Army Congressional Liaison officers provide an invaluable service to both the military and Congress. They assist Members and staff in understanding the Army's policies, actions, operations, and requirements. Their first hand knowledge of military needs, culture, and tradition is a tremendous benefit to Congressional offices. In November of 2004, Captain Roman reported to his first operational duty assignment as a Platoon Leader with the 1st-501st Attack Helicopter Battalion during their rotation to the Unit Fielding and Training Program at Fort Hood, Texas in my Congressional district. Upon completion the unit was reflagged to 4th-227th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. In 2006, Major Roman deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom and served 14 months in the Baghdad area of operation. Upon redeployment in 2008, he reported back to Fort Rucker, Alabama for the Aviation Captains Career Course. In 2008, Captain Roman returned to the 4th-227th and took command of the Headquarters and Headquarters Company. In April 2009, he deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom for a second time. He then took command of C Company and served under operational control of the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force before moving to Al Asad Air Base in the Anwar Province. Due in no small part to his leadership, Captain Roman's company provided valuable reconnaissance and inflicted significant damage on enemy forces. In 2011, Dave served as an Army Fellow in the office of Congressman Silvestre Reyes representing residents of El Paso and Fort Bliss, Texas. During that year he also earned a Masters in Legislative Affairs from the George Washington University. In January of 2012, he arrived in the House Army Liaison Division where he assumed his role as a Legislative Liaison and continued to honorably serve as a conduit between the Army and Congress for two years. His great work has not gone unnoticed. During Major Roman's distinguished service to this nation, he has earned awards and decorations including: the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Action Badge, Army Aviator Badge, Army Parachutes Badge, and the German Proficiency Badge (Gold Award). Mr. Speaker it is my honor to recognize the selfless service of Major Roman and his wife Dymphna, who is a former Staff Sergeant in the Army and currently serves as a Department of the Army Civilian. I wish them the best as they continue to serve our great nation and proceed to the next chapter in their remarkable careers.

Mr. CARTER

Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate General James D. Thurman on his retirement from the United States Army after 38 years of dedicated, distinguished, and honorable service. He will retire on November 22, 2013, concluding his service over the past 2 years as commander of the U.S. forces in Korea. During both war and peace, General Thurman has served with courage and distinction in the face of tremendous adversity, demonstrating his commitment to America and to our people. During his long and honorable career, General Thurman successfully commanded 10 different units at every echelon of command, including extensive operational combat deployments. Besides his command of the 4th Infantry Division and the Multinational Division in Baghdad, Iraq, he made significant contributions during the initial invasion of Iraq as the chief of operations for the Coalition Forces Land Component Command. Other notable assignments during his tenure include operations in Kosova as the chief of the Plans and Policy Division for Allied Forces Southern Europe and battalion executive officer in the 1st Cavalry Division during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. In his final assignment, General Thurman served as the senior U.S. military officer in Korea where he was responsible for 28,500 U.S. forces stationed there. His top command priority was to deter and defend against North Korean provocations and aggression and, should deterrence fail, to be prepared to ``fight tonight'' and win. He ensured the readiness of his multinational, combined and joint forces through a broad range of actions. As a result of changes he directed during the two annual multinational, combined and joint exercises in Korea, forces under his command became the most mission-focused training exercises in U.S.-ROK history. His initial assessment of existing capabilities on the peninsula resulted in the addition of an armed reconnaissance squadron and other changes to better prepare and position U.S. forces to respond. His steady hand and strong relationships with his ROK counterparts, as well as with senior civilian and military leaders in the U.S., were critical to safely navigating several operational crises. A native of Marietta, Oklahoma, General Thurman graduated from East Central Oklahoma University, where he earned his commission through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps. His first assignment was with the 4th Infantry Division, which he later commanded and deployed with to Iraq. Since his first assignment, he and his wife, Delia, known as ``Dee'' Thurman, have moved over 25 times in 38 years, including four tours in Germany, two at the National Training Center, and three in my district at Fort Hood, Texas. During that time, they raised two daughters, and they are now proud grandparents. 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 General Thurman for his selfless service to the Nation and to the United States Army. I wish him and his wife the best in the years ahead, and I welcome them as new constituents to the 31st Congressional District.