John Carter

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the retirement of Gary L. Janacek, CEO of Scott & White Employees Credit Union. This esteemed and valued citizen of the Temple, Texas area has made real and lasting impacts on his community and set a high standard of excellence in his profession. Gary truly embodied the Credit Union's slogan, ``people helping people,'' throughout his career and in all aspects of life. Throughout his nearly fifty years of service, Gary's work has been vital in helping the Credit Union succeed in serving their communities and achieving their goals. When formally announcing his retirement to the board of directors and staff last summer, Gary said, ``It's been a distinct privilege and honor to serve our members for the past 39 years. I have been richly blessed with a visionary board of directors and dedicated staff in serving the needs of our membership.'' That Gary chose to salute those around him rather than himself comes as no surprise to those who've been able to work alongside this exceptional leader. Gary's work hasn't gone unnoticed. He served in numerous leadership positions within the state and national credit union movement. In September of 2003, Texas Governor Rick Perry appointed Gary to serve on the Texas Credit Union Commission. He was soon chosen to Chair this commission's important work. In 2015, Gary was inducted into the Credit Union House Hall of Leaders. His work positively impacted countless people across Texas and nationwide. Retirement is to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but rather the beginning of a new adventure. I heartily salute Gary Janacek's work and contributions to his community. I'm sure I echo the thoughts of all when I wish him the best in both his retirement and all his future endeavors.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, ObamaCare is hurting Texas families, as the Speaker knows. The law has led to higher costs, fewer choices, and less access to the quality health care that is what the American people deserve. Currently, over 70 percent of the counties nationwide have two or fewer insurers. Texas could see as much as a 48 percent rate increase in 2017. This is proof that ObamaCare is failing. Hardworking Americans and their families have been begging for an end to the ObamaCare burden. It is up to this House to provide one. House Republicans have forged a new path to patient-centered health care. Our plan looks out for the most vulnerable and allows for Americans to choose a plan that best suits their healthcare needs. I am committed to repealing the broken promises of ObamaCare and replacing them with health care that works for Texas families.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Army Vice Chief of Staff Daniel Allyn recently told the House Armed Services Committee that our Army requires modernization equipment to win decisively, but today we are outraged, outgunned, and outdated. At the present time, he says that only three of the Army's 58 brigade combat teams are ready to fight. It is crucial, and I urge my colleagues to support this appropriations bill and fully fund our armed services.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful that we are here hoping to end the continuing resolution on the Department of Defense, and I rise in support of the bill we are debating today. We all know too well that continuing resolutions are unacceptable burdens on the least and the greatest of our DOD assets, our Members, and civilians at a time of unprecedented threats to our Nation. I thank Chairman Frelinghuysen and Chairwoman Granger for bringing this bill to the floor and for their unwavering commitment to the men and women in uniform, which will continue under their leadership in the future. I also thank this committee for fully funding an increase of Active, Guard, and Reserve soldiers. I am also co-chair of the Army Caucus, and providing them with the modern equipment and training necessary to keep them alive and the greatest fighting force on Earth is very important to the defense of our Nation. We have more that we need to consider.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, while January 1967 brought record- breaking snowstorms to Chicago, Texas had temperatures in the mid-70s. This was perfect for Ernest and Joan Rister of Round Rock, Texas, who joined hands on January 22, 1967 at St. Cyril Methodist Catholic Church in Granger, Texas to become husband and wife. Decades have passed and the Risters are as devoted to one another as the day they wed. They recently celebrated their 50th anniversary with over 400 guests honoring their Czech and German roots. All in attendance celebrated the Risters' longevity and deep love for one another. They met in grade school while living in Granger, TX and started dating their freshman year. These two high school sweethearts have been inseparable ever since. Following their wedding, Ernest graduated from Southwestern University in Georgetown and served in the United States Marine Corps. They returned to Texas and moved to Round Rock in 1975, living in the same house ever since. Ernest currently works as a research chemist and Joan is a retired real estate appraiser. They love the outdoors, gardening, hunting, and fishing. They especially enjoy spending time with their son Ernest Lee Rister, III and his wife Annie, daughter Shelley and her husband Malcolm Middlebrook, and two grandchildren Camryn and Zachary Middlebrook. There's no doubt the Risters have built a happy life together. Marriages like the Risters are the foundations of one of our most cherished institutions and give us all an ideal to which we can aspire. Their undying love for one another makes both Texas and our nation strong. I congratulate Joan and Ernest on 50 years together and wish them the best in the years to come.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to Wiggie Shell, a great American and a great Texan, on the occasion of his 60th birthday. I am honored to call this business and civic leader a friend. A fifth generation descendant of a Central Texas ranching family, William Carroll ``Wiggie'' Shell was born March 1, 1957 in Georgetown, Texas. His family has long been committed to his beloved home town. During the early 1950s to 1968, Wiggie's father owned and operated the only public swimming pool in Georgetown known as ``The Shell Pool'' which was a favorite place where young and old spent many of their summer hours. Wiggie graduated from Georgetown High School in 1975. A true child of Texas, Wiggie was a rodeo bull rider in his youth and used that knowledge to wrangle Donna, his wife and love of his life, marrying in 1977. They have two children and three grandchildren. Wiggie started his railroad career as a carman at Georgetown Railroad Company, worked his way up to Chief Mechanical Officer, spending 20 years with the railroad. Wiggie then started at a supplier company called Georgetown Rail Equipment Company (GREX) in the Operations department and worked his way up to President and CEO. Under his leadership, GREX doubled in size and revenue in just three years. Wiggie made GREX into an industry leader by pioneering high-technology solutions for thorny long-standing railroad problems. Under his direction, the company is now moving into international markets. His work as an innovator led to Wiggie being a respected railroad industry support spokesperson in Washington, DC and Austin, TX. Wiggie's contributions don't stop when the work day ends. He served in the Georgetown Volunteer Fire Department for 28 years and volunteers with Sky Ball, the premier fundraising event for the Airpower Foundation, one of the oldest military support organizations in the U.S. When he's not working or volunteering, Wiggie relishes his family time, whether enjoying NASCAR races or fishing with his grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I join Wiggie's friends, family, and colleagues in wishing him a happy 60th birthday. His has been a life of innovation and service. With Wiggie, the best is yet to come and I wish him nothing but success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the Crusaders of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor who capped a perfect season by defeating the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Titans 10-7 in the Stagg Bowl to claim their first ever DIII Football National Championship. It was a game low on points but high on drama. While the Stagg Bowl was contested over the span of four quarters, for UMHB it was a championship 19 years in the making. A program built from scratch by Coach Pete Fredenburg nearly two decades ago can now call itself the best in the land. Anyone who follows sports knows the truth of these three words: defense wins championships. While high scores thrill the casual fan, the art of shutting down an opponent's ability to rack up points is what ultimately allows a team to hoist a championship trophy. The Crusaders' suffocating defense held the Titans to just 215 yards overall and allowed UMHB to control the game. Their relentless playmaking and defensive intensity, honed through seasons of tough practice and a strict commitment to football fundamentals, brought home the title for the Crusaders. While football is a team sport, there was great play from the Crusaders' star players. Quarterback Blake Jackson, the game's MVP, ended the game with 171 passing yards and 119 rushing yards. Senior linebacker Matt Cody came through in the clutch with a game-sealing interception. It's no secret that Texans live for football and the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor's commitment to teamwork and tough physical play represent the very best of our beloved sport. I congratulate the Crusaders on their victory in the Stagg Bowl and wish them continued success in seasons to come.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. I thank the chairman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I am a proud member of the Appropriations Committee. I have one of the most difficult areas as far as current events in the country, and that is homeland security. I don't like a CR any more than any other appropriator likes a CR, but our job is to fund the government. The Constitution tells us we are to fund the government, and we have hardworking people like Hal Rogers, who reads the Constitution and realizes we have got to take the best medium we can for now and fund the government. So, of course, I am going to support this CR and I hope all my colleagues will. I want to tell you, all of us on the Appropriations Committee go through the entire process of doing the best we can for the departments we represent, to give them suggestions of leadership and direction to fund the projects that they need, to take care of the employees who work there and take care of the mission of every department we have. To have to see cede all that to a CR is painful, but reality is reality. The government must go on, and at this point in this time the government will go on with a CR. I also wanted to get up and say, as you go through these battles, wonderful people like my chairman and ranking member, Mr. Rogers and Mrs. Lowey, fight through the frustrations through the entire committee, and we do this. Yet these great minds like Hal Rogers know what it takes to make things work around here, and they are willing to put in the time and the effort to get it done no matter how it has to be done. Our preference is to pass all appropriations bills into law. A necessity at this time is a CR, and I trust absolutely that my chairman is doing the right thing.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of Deborah Hunt. With her retirement approaching, she will soon close out over twenty years of incredible service to her community and begin the next chapter of her life. Deborah has fulfilled her duties with dedication and innovation. Her commitment to public service started in 1994 when she served as Justice of the Peace in Williamson County. Through the years, she continued to serve her community through various public positions, including her appointment to the Board of Tax Professional Examiners by Former Governor George Bush and later appointed Chair of the Board by Former Governor Rick Perry. Deborah is well known throughout the state for paving the way to modernize her department. She led the implementation of on-line payments and simplification of tax collections. Her office has served as a test site for the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to pilot upgrades and new systems. Deborah's leadership is this arena has made a real difference in the lives of Texans. Deborah's commitment to service and the highest standard of excellence has not gone unnoticed. Recognized by her colleagues for her devotion and hard work, she has achieved a long list of accolades, including Person of the Year as well as the Earl Luna Award, and the Marilyn Albert Achievement, the highest honor recognized by the Texas Association of Assessing Officers. Deborah Hunt's extraordinary commitment to service reflects the best values of Central Texas. There's no doubt that Williamson County is a better place because of her. I heartily salute her work and wish her the best of luck in all her new endeavors.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the retirement of Bell County Commissioner Richard Cortese. His extraordinary commitment to community service over nearly a quarter century reflects the best values of Central Texas. A native son of Little River-Academy, a growing community in the heart of Central Texas, Richard has led a life devoted to causes bigger than him. Upon completion of his U.S. Air Force career, he returned home to build a ranch while continuing to dedicate himself to his community. In 1992, he was elected to county commissioner and later was active in the Texas Farm Bureau. Even outside of his professional career, Richard has dedicated himself to his community. He has been active in the Young Farmers of Texas Association and even served as president of the Little River- Academy Lions Club. He has been a member and has acted as president or chairman of various associations and committees that worked to make Texas a great place to live. He has even been involved with the development of the consolidated 911 dispatch center in Bell County as well as the planning and construction of additional courts and jail facilities for Bell County. Retirement is to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but rather the beginning of a new adventure. I heartily salute Richard Cortese's work and contributions to his community. I'm sure I echo the thoughts of all when I wish him the best in both his retirement and all his future endeavors.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and work of David Flores of Georgetown, Texas. After nearly four decades of impeccable work as County Auditor, David is beginning his richly-deserved retirement. County Auditors play a vital role in maintaining the fiscal integrity in county government and few have taken on this important responsibility with greater professionalism than David. He knows that second-rate work isn't acceptable. The people of Texas deserve that level of excellence when it comes to managing their precious tax dollars. David doesn't let them down. David's positive impacts on the counties he's served cannot be overstated. Under his leadership, Williamson County's bond rating went from ``low investment grade'' to AAA, the highest rating available. He's established thoughtful standards for county purchases and has provided superb oversight for $1 billion in capital projects. Central Texas is better because of his leadership and hard work. David's commitment to excellence doesn't stop when the work day ends. He has been a trustee for the Texas County and District Retirement System and is a past president for the Texas Association of County Auditors. David shouldered the demanding responsibilities as the Chairman of the Investment Committee for the Texas Association of Counties from 2008 to 2012. Over the years, he's deservedly received numerous awards and commendations as well as the admiration of his peers and colleagues. Retirement is to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but rather the beginning of a new adventure. I heartily salute David Flores' work and contributions to his community. I'm sure I echo the thoughts of all when I wish him the best in both his retirement and all his future endeavors.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and work of David Flores of Georgetown, Texas. After nearly four decades of impeccable work as County Auditor, David is beginning his richly-deserved retirement. County Auditors play a vital role in maintaining the fiscal integrity in county government and few have taken on this important responsibility with greater professionalism than David. He knows that second-rate work isn't acceptable. The people of Texas deserve that level of excellence when it comes to managing their precious tax dollars. David doesn't let them down. David's positive impacts on the counties he's served cannot be overstated. Under his leadership, Williamson County's bond rating went from ``low investment grade'' to AAA, the highest rating available. He's established thoughtful standards for county purchases and has provided superb oversight for $1 billion in capital projects. Central Texas is better because of his leadership and hard work. David's commitment to excellence doesn't stop when the work day ends. He has been a trustee for the Texas County and District Retirement System and is a past president for the Texas Association of County Auditors. David shouldered the demanding responsibilities as the Chairman of the Investment Committee for the Texas Association of Counties from 2008 to 2012. Over the years, he's deservedly received numerous awards and commendations as well as the admiration of his peers and colleagues. Retirement is to be celebrated and enjoyed. It is not the end of a career, but rather the beginning of a new adventure. I heartily salute David Flores' work and contributions to his community. I'm sure I echo the thoughts of all when I wish him the best in both his retirement and all his future endeavors.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the achievements of Major General Robert Halverson, retired, who served in the United States Army for 39 years and continues to work for his country and community following his retirement. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. MG Halverson, of Georgetown, Texas, began his active duty career upon graduation from Colorado State University. After 15 years he left active duty service and entered the U.S. Army Reserves and transferred to the Texas National Guard in October of 1985. In 1998, he was promoted to Major General and took command of the 49th Armored Division. During his time in service, MG Halverson acquired a long list of accomplishments and awards, including the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, and more. He also successfully commanded the first Active and Reserve Component integrated headquarters to serve in Bosnia. Along with his Army National Guard service, MG Halverson continued his life of service in the State of Texas, where he served in the Governor's Division of Emergency Management and as a Deputy Insurance Commissioner for Safety. Following his retirement from military service in March 2002, MG Halverson continued to serve as a mentor for other National Guard Division and Brigade Commanders and Staff. MG Halverson's skills as a strategic leader have improved every organization he's associated with. His commitment to community and his role as a mentor and friend to his colleagues make him a valuable asset to improving the quality of life in the Lone Star State. I commend Major General Robert Halverson's selfless service to both the United States Army and his nation. His patriotism, citizenship, and commitment to excellence reflect the very best values of Central Texas. I join MG Halverson's friends, family, and colleagues in celebrating his outstanding achievements.

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 Cedar Park, Texas. Specialist Donald Schliesser has dedicated himself to serving his community and is an embodiment of the Army values of honor, loyalty, and selfless service. He is deserving recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. SPC Schliesser enlisted in the Army in June 1957. After nine years of combined Active and Reserve service as a military radio operator, he left the Army and worked in the civilian sector as a financial planner. He concluded his successful career after 42 years, and enjoyed the next few years in retirement traveling our great nation with his wife. Choosing to be closer to their son, SPC Schliesser and his wife moved to Cedar Park, Texas. Throughout SPC Schliesser's life, he has demonstrated his deep commitment to selfless service time and time again. In 2007, and again in 2015, SPC Schliesser decided to come out of retirement to serve on the Bond Advisory Task Force to review and recommend potential bond projects to the City Council. His efforts helped establish Cedar Park's infrastructure to accommodate its massive growth. Being an avid pilot, he served in the Contra County Sherriff's Air Posse. Applying his skills learned from the Army, he assists in emergency communications as an amateur radio operator. In 2011, he led the effort to raise $225,000 in community donations for the Cedar Park Veterans Memorial. Citizens like SPC Schliesser are essential to making cities like Cedar Park, TX great places to live. Though humble about his military service, Specialist Schliesser has remained dedicated to serving his community and honoring the military. I commend him for his work and am honored to award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Colonel Otis Evans, U.S. Army, retired. COL Evans answered the call to defend our great nation for 27 years and continues to dutifully serve his community of Killeen, Texas in civilian life. An exemplary serviceman and citizen, it is my honor to award COL Evans with the Congressional Veterans Commendation. A distinguished military graduate from Prairie View A&M University, COL Evans commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and began his military career flying aero-medical evacuation aircraft in Vietnam. In high-risk situations ranging from enemy fire to extreme weather, COL Evans remained steadfastly loyal to his fellow soldiers, refusing to abort a mission without the wounded aboard his aircraft. Relying on the Good Lord for strength, COL Evans' leadership, dedication, and bravery saved the lives of many. For his service and bravery in combat, COL Evans was awarded the Silver Star, two Distinguish Flying Crosses, Bronze Star, the Combat Medical Badge, and the Master Aviator Badge. After twelve years of flying, COL Evans transitioned to Heath Care Operations, and later to Health Care Administration, concluding his career at Walter Reed Medical Center. COL Evans' service and sense of duty did not culminate with his military service. Upon returning to the great state of Texas, COL Evans dedicated his civilian life to the uplifting and betterment of his community, serving on the Killeen City Council, the Central Texas Council of Governments, and as President of the Killeen, Texas Branch, NAACP. Alongside his involvement in these and numerous other organizations, COL Evans has remained committed to honoring his fallen brothers in arms, assisting in the planning of the 2009 Fort Hood shooting memorial. COL Evans' 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, Rosalind, his children, and grandchildren in wishing him the best in the years ahead.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the accomplishments of Command Sergeant Major Elijah King, Jr., U.S. Army, Retired, who served his country in the Army for 30 years and continues to serve his fellow soldiers and his community following his retirement. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. A native son of Tuskegee, Alabama, CSM King enlisted in the U.S. Army in August of 1977. Along with serving in Korea and Germany, he is a veteran of Operation Desert Shield/Storm and served two tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He retired from the U.S. Army in 2007 as Command Sergeant Major of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Hood, Texas. During his service in the U.S. Army, CSM King was a recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, including the prestigious Legion of Merit and three Bronze Star Medals for his service in combat. This brave soldier is also a committed citizen. Following his military career, he continued to support the military and community through positions in various services such as the Co-Chairman of the Fort Hood Retired Council and the Chairman of the Central Texas Area Veterans Advisory Committee. He was a member of the Killeen Branch NAACP, Board of Directors KISD Communities in Schools, and Military Child Education Coalition. CSM King's work has improved the quality of life in central Texas in immeasurable ways. CSM King's motto is ``Old Soldiers never die and I refuse to fade away.'' As evidenced from the respect and admiration that his fellow soldiers and colleagues have for him, along with lasting effect on the community he loves, CSM Elijah King stands true to his word and will never fade away. I'm grateful that heroes like him call central Texas home.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Private First Class Shirley Stephenson, of Salado, Texas, for her selfless dedication and service to our nation while serving under the Women's Army Corps and her continued, unparalleled contributions to her community. I'm honored to award her a Congressional Veterans Commendation. PFC Stephenson entered the service in Houston, Texas in June 1959 where she would begin serving her country. Since her honorable discharge, PFC Stephenson has become a pillar in her community and has served and contributed in ways that exemplify the highest standards of service. Throughout PFC Stephenson's life, she has served on multiple boards and community organizations, such as the Harker Heights Parks and Recreation Board, the KPLE Christian Broadcasting Corporation Board and the Hope Pregnancy Centers Board. While dedicating her time to these institutions, she also served as the President of the Fort Hood Retired Officers' Wives Club, a Goodwill Ambassador to the Killeen Chamber of Commerce and served as the President of the Chisholm Trail American Business Women Association. PFC Stephenson is both soldier and committed activist. She has worked on numerous political, organized county conventions, and served as President of the Central Texas Republican Women from 2008 through 2010. PFC Stephenson's hard work and service has not gone unnoticed. Along with her being honored by Governor Perry as a Yellow Rose of Texas, she's received the Chisholm Trail ABWA, Salado, Woman of the Year and Hall of Fame award, as well as the Vietnam Service Award in May 2016. I commend Private First Class Shirley Stephenson's selfless service to her community and nation. Her commitment to excellence and citizenship reflect the best values we hold as Americans. I join her family, friends and colleagues in saluting her great work and dedication to our country.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Engineering Aide Chief Troy R. Cole Sr., U.S. Navy, Retired, of Cedar Park, Texas. A World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War veteran, EAC Cole served as a guardian of our great nation against countless enemies. A true patriot and exceptional citizen, EAC Cole is a deserving recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. An intrinsic sense of adventure inspired EAC Cole to begin his naval career at age 17, shortly after World War II began. With a career spanning over three decades, EAC Cole saw much combat, and received numerous commendations, medals, and awards as testament to his exemplary service. Yet even upon retirement, the call to serve his beloved country continued to burn inside. EAC Cole returned to the Navy he loves, spending the next decade teaching, training, and mentoring the next generation of service men and women. EAC Cole's love of country is matched only by his commitment to his fellow service members. Today, EAC Cole remains devoted to celebrating the life, and honoring the memory, of his brothers and sisters in arms. Each year, EAC Cole invests countless hours in orchestrating many of Cedar Park's veteran memorials, parades, and ceremonies. He is beloved by the Cedar Park community for his leadership and passion. EAC Cole 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. May we all follow the example of great men such as EAC Cole, and live a life of passion, loyalty, and selflessness.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the service of Corporal Roberto Vasquez. The embodiment of the U.S. Marine Corps' values of honor, courage, and commitment, Cpl. Vasquez is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Cpl. Vasquez's seven years of honorable service in the Marines from 1983-89 reinforced his innate drive to not quit until the job is done and done right. He leaves every situation better then he found it and has made permanent and positive impacts on his beloved Hutto, TX. Whether it's teaching, working with at-risk kids, or coaching football, Cpl. Vasquez communicates the importance of self-respect to young people. His honors as an educator and his achievements as a school administrator are testimonies to his skill and devotion to ensuring students receive the education and guidance they deserve. Yet Cpl. Vasquez's commitment to community doesn't stop at the schoolhouse gate. He's active in Cub Scouts, feeding the hungry, and is a devout member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church. As Commander of American Legion Post 302 in Hutto, TX, Cpl. Vasquez has seen the membership of this proud organization devoted to the family of veterans grow under his leadership. Most important, he's never forgotten those who served but did not return. Corporal Roberto Vasquez's motto is ``other first.'' These stirring words aren't a meaningless expression but a deep and lasting creed that is the guiding force of his life. It's the work of selfless citizens like Cpl. Vasquez that keep our country safe and make cities like Hutto, TX wonderful places to live. I commend his commitment to his Corps, his nation, and his community and am honored to award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Captain George White, U.S. Army, Retired, a decorated soldier and distinguished citizen of Round Rock, TX. In all aspects of life, CPT White goes above and beyond the call of duty. It is my honor to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Upon his enlistment in the Army in 1968, CPT White volunteered for a tour of duty in Vietnam, eager to serve his beloved country. As testament to the quality of his service, CPT White received numerous medals including the Bronze Star, the Army Commendation Medal, and the South Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. A true patriot, CPT White continued to honorably answer the call to serve even following his discharge from active duty. For seven more years, CPT White volunteered in an Army Reserve battalion, where he commanded every firing battery in the battalion. Under his leadership, his unit was named Best Firing Battery in the battalion each year. In civilian life, CPT White has served those around him with boundless altruism and exemplary leadership. A profound and respected pillar in the Round Rock community, CPT White has served on numerous committees and boards, volunteered countless hours in community service, and has consistently placed his neighbors' needs before his own. He served on the city council for eight years, the last two as Mayor Pro Tem. For these reasons and many more, his community came together in 2005 to honor CPT White as Round Rock Citizen of the Year. A reflection of the very best values of Central Texas and America, CPT White's service to his community and country has made a resounding impact on those around him. I thank and commend CPT White, 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 Lieutenant General Pete Taylor, U.S. Army, Retired, of Belton, Texas, for his dedication to our country while serving over 33 years in the Army. LTG Taylor 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 Veterans Commendation. LTG Taylor has more than 33 years of Senior Executive experience as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army. He has led organizations at every level, culminating with his appointment as Commanding General of III corps at Fort Hood, Texas. For his service and actions in combat, LTG Taylor has been awarded two Distinguished Service Medals, the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars and two Army Commendation Medals for valor. LTG Taylor has focused his career on leading, training, planning, operations, and crisis management. After retiring from the U.S. Army in 1993, LTG Taylor continued to dedicate his time to worthy causes. His leadership skills have been invaluable throughout his post-military career. LTG Taylor served as one of five congressionally appointed members on the Overseas Basing Commission, is founder and the current chairman of The Heart of Texas Defense Alliance, and founded and served as chairman of the Military Child Education Coalition. From 2006 to 2010, LTG Taylor assisted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the development and implementation of their influenza pandemic response plan as well as the ongoing testing and refinement of that plan through training drills and exercises, which paid great dividends in the successful response to H1N1 in 2009. I commend LTG Taylor'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 Sergeant Frank Thompson, for his dedication and service to our country. SGT Thompson's extraordinary commitment to community and service reflects the best values of Central Texas. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veterans Commendation. SGT Thompson was born in the small town of Troy, Texas, where he later attended A&M University. At the start of World War II, SGT Thompson left college to serve his country in the U.S. Army. In July 1943, SGT Thompson served in the South Pacific with H. Co, 172nd Infantry 43rd Division. His unit received five Distinguished Unit Citations, and for his service, SGT Thompson received the Asiatic- Pacific Medal with 3 Bronze stars, the Philippine Liberation Medal with 1 Bronze star, the Combat Infantry badge, and the Good Conduct Medal. SGT Thompson is a highly respected citizen involved in a number of different organizations, which exemplifies his commitment to community and nation. After returning from the war, SGT Thompson followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, J.Q. Thompson, who was instrumental in the founding of the town and school system in Troy. SGT Thompson joined the Troy Masonic Lodge where he served as the secretary for 38 years, and was recognized for being a Mason for 60 years in 2007. SGT Thompson also served on the first Troy City Council, the Bank of Troy Board of Directors, and was a Charter Member of the Troy Volunteer Fire Department. With admiration and deep respect, we pay tribute to SGT Thompson for his sacrifices for our country and the lasting impact he has had on his community and beyond. Dedicated public servants like him make Central Texas a great place to live.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I cast a No vote on Roll Call Number 570 (Kildee of Michigan Amendment No. 19 to H.R. 5303: Water Resources Development Act). This was an unintended error, and I wish to reflect that my intention was to support passage of Roll Call Number 570. Additionally, I was recorded as Not Voting on Roll Call Number 574 (H.R. 6094: Regulatory Relief for Small Businesses, Schools, and Nonprofits Act--On Passage). I wish to reflect that my intention was to support passage of Roll Call Number 574.

Mr. CARTER of Texas

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Gohmert's frustration level is extremely high, as I would argue the American citizens' frustration level is extremely high. For that reason, he is concerned about what people who are avoiding the intent of the law are doing to circumvent the laws in this country. So am I. But does that mean, because we don't trust someone in the White House or someone in an agency to do the right thing, we shouldn't provide the additional training that will keep law enforcement officers from being killed because they weren't trained well enough to respond in a first responder situation or an active shooter situation? We are trying to get additional funding to train up every person who enforces the law right in this country. I understand Mr. Gohmert's worry about these people who are circumventing the intent of the Congress. We all worry about that quite a bit. But it is not a reason to take down a piece of legislation that will provide needed resources for first responders and law enforcement across this great land. Those people, the better trained they are, the better chance they have got to stay alive. If they stay alive, they can do their job.

Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I listened diligently to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gohmert), who is a friend and a colleague, both in the Judiciary and in the Appropriations Legislative Branch Subcommittee. I am not going to address the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gohmert) by his first name because judges don't address opponents by their first name. Mr. Gohmert, your frustration level is extremely high, as I would argue most Americans' frustration level is extremely high.