Joe Courtney

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the commendable career of a dedicated public servant and important figure in southeastern Connecticut, Lonnie Braxton. After 24 years of service as the Senior Assistant State's Attorney for juvenile matters for New London County, Lonnie retires on December 14th, 2021. Throughout his career, Lonnie has been a stalwart guardian defending civil rights within his community and a source of wisdom and guidance through his leadership positions within the State and local branches of the NAACP. Though the setting of Lonnie's public service has evolved throughout his career, his north star has always been driven by his mission to assist others. He has served honorably throughout his career, representing a true commitment to civil rights and justice. Born in 1948, Lonnie was raised in Greenville, Mississippi where he attended high school and signaled his high level of competence, joining the U.S. Navy Reserves by his sophomore year. Upon his graduation, he served 18 months on Active Duty aboard the USS Amphion AR-13. After completing his Active Duty service with the Navy, our region became lucky enough for Lonnie to take a job with the submarine manufacturer Electric Boat in Groton, ultimately causing him to choose southeastern Connecticut as his new home. Lonnie went to work at Electric Boat for 10 years, holding various positions including electronics mechanic, radiation control monitor, property control analyst, and technical administrator in the material department. His technical skills and expertise were highly prized in an enterprise that adheres to a standard of excellence. He knew from his naval service that the lives of sailors depended on doing the job right. Lonnie, of course, was destined to help his community in a different way--to make sure our courts protected the rights of every citizen young or old who came into contact with the criminal justice system. Following his time with Electric Boat, Lonnie went on to further his education, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Connecticut College in 1986 and subsequently a Juris Doctorate from the University of Connecticut School of Law in 1988. He immediately immersed himself in legal work, where he gained the experience that prepared him for his paramount work as a Senior Assistant State's Attorney with the Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice. Since 1997, he has worked in Juvenile Court where he has furthered the agency's mission of promoting restorative justice, accountability, and rehabilitation. Lonnie overcame all resistance faced in his career, relentlessly representing every member of his community in the courtroom. Madam Speaker, on a personal note, I first met Lonnie as a fellow attorney during my time as a practicing attorney in eastern Connecticut. His intelligence and compassion were apparent to me during the inevitable waiting time that lawyers experience in the court system. Based on that friendship, Lonnie in 2007 recommended a young attorney, Ms. Ayanti Grant, to apply for a job in my district office. Lucky for me, I offered her a job doing constituent immigration casework, and today she is the District Director for Connecticut's second district. I will be forever grateful to Lonnie for that fortuitous suggestion of Ayanti Grant, that has benefited thousands of citizens in eastern Connecticut. Lonnie spent considerable time outside of his duties as a prosecutor serving his local communities. He is a member of the Board of Finance for the City of New London, a past member of the New London Planning and Zoning Committee, a member of the New London Schools Truancy Review Board, among others. He has demonstrated a commitment to the well-being of others and has helped guide southeastern Connecticut's next generation of legal advocates and civil figures. He became the First Vice President of the Norwich Branch of the NAACP upon its founding in 1963. He has fought for equality and civil rights for decades, having been a former President of the New London Branch of the NAACP. His work has paved the way for current and future activists to continue making gains for all residents of eastern Connecticut. Lonnie has lived through and helped foster great change in his lifetime, helping lead our Nation's continuing civil rights movement. Outside of his career, Lonnie has demonstrated a passion for family, history, and the arts. He is the proud father of Lonnie Braxton III, who won the gold medal and silver medal in tennis at the National Special Olympics Games in 2010. This commitment to family runs into the past, as he is also the proud keeper of his family's stories and history. He is a renowned speaker and lecturer on the civil rights movement, African-American History, and African-American cinema. This history is crucial to our Nation's present and it is due to the efforts of historians such as Lonnie that the Nation can look to the past and continue striving to fulfill its great promises. Lonnie has also dedicated himself to collecting African-American movies from the 20th century. These arts have greatly contributed to the culture of the United States and we benefit tremendously from Lonnie's preservation efforts. Madam Speaker, Lonnie's contributions in administering and advocating for justice within Connecticut's Second District are immeasurable and deserving of an equal amount of gratitude. His life and career, dedicated to public service, exist as an inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps. Although his retirement from the Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice undoubtedly leaves large shoes to fill, he has demonstrated that the principles that have guided his career are larger than any one position. After such a long tenure in service, I also cannot imagine that his valuable insight will continue to go untapped. Lonnie will continue on to the next phase of his life with his family, his wife, Gwendolyn Bosco, and his son, Lonnie Braxton III. To these ends, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring, thanking, and congratulating Lonnie Braxton for his successful commitment to the public well-being and safety. There is no better way to honor such a steadfast steward of our community than immortalizing his career through the Congressional Record.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to mourn and observe the passing of a diligent public servant and a passionate community member, Joseph ``Jack'' Quinn, Jr. of Suffield, Connecticut. A dedicated member in local politics and a loving family man, Jack passed away on November 7, 2021, surrounded by his loved ones, after 85 years on this Earth. Born to Joseph J. and Mary Mae Quinn in Hartford, Connecticut, Jack demonstrated fierce loyalty to our State from the get-go. Jack's life- long intention was to improve what our region had to offer his fellow neighbors by way of hard work and civic engagement. This intention extended through every aspect of his life--even for his professional career, Jack chose to serve an impressive 37-years with the Connecticut Department of Transportation before moving on to a rightfully deserved retirement. Of course, Jack's personal commitment to improving his own community went far deeper than just an occupation with the State. His intrinsic community-oriented perspective encouraged his involvement within state and local politics throughout the entirety of his life. He was an ardent member of the local Democratic Town Committee, leading to various roles of service with the Town of Suffield, including a stint in leadership as a selectman. In his tenure with the municipal government, Joseph helped the town oversee several priorities from managing operations of the Suffield Police Department, to uplifting and preserving Suffield's 350 years of history, to improving proper traffic safety and the town's infrastructure. Beyond his time as selectman, it is worth noting Jack maintained his ability to advocate for the interests of the Suffield community through an innumerable amount of settings--acting as a traditional participant in state conventions, serving as a commissioner for the Suffield Police Commission, a member for the Pedestrian and Traffic Safety and Infrastructure Committee, serving on Suffield's Water Pollution Control Authority and additionally the Vice Chairman of the Heritage Committee. Throughout his impassioned involvement with the town, Joseph unwaveringly prioritized Suffield's best interests and sought to leave the town and its government even better than when he began his work. Armed with the vitality brought by his own sense of dedication, Jack kept a busy, local presence even into his latest years, working at Vinnie's Little Acre in Windsor Locks over the holidays, utilizing his younger experience as a florist to produce arrangements for and share stories with fellow community members. Madam Speaker, Joseph Quinn, Jr. was a diligent civil servant who deeply and consistently enriched the lives of those within the community. I have had the honor to represent the Town of Suffield for many years in Congress and have seen Jack's dedicated work firsthand. He epitomized what it meant to be a loyal public servant and a passionate community member. In his passing, Joseph leaves behind his loving wife, Corrine, three children: Katherine, Lisa, and Joseph Quinn III, as well as several grand and great-grandchildren. He loved spending time with them and will be remembered as a passionate family member. His memory will undoubtedly live on through his family as well as within the Suffield community which he served. To that end, I ask that my colleagues and this Chamber join me in remembering Joseph's legacy and expressing our deepest respect for Joseph's work and life.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, it is with great sorrow that I rise today to honor the life of the late Eric ``Ric'' Sawyer, a longstanding eastern Connecticut resident who passed on November 5, 2021, at the age of 76. Having served the State of Connecticut and our nation in a variety of capacities, public service was engrained within Ric's outlook on life. In fact, I can attest to the fact that community service was a vital aspect of the entire Sawyer family, as I had the opportunity to briefly serve with Ric's partner, Pamela Sawyer, in the Connecticut General Assembly, who is now going on to lead the Town of Bolton, Connecticut as its First Selectwoman after more than two decades in the Assembly. Born a stone's throw away in Providence, Rhode Island to Dr. Carl and Gertrude Sawyer, Ric was destined to spend his life giving back to his country. Ric joined the military at a young age in 1967, where he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and went on to proudly serve across seas as a pilot with the U.S. Army and National Guard (USANG) during the Vietnam Conflict. After a year on tour in Vietnam, Eric was not only promoted to the rank of captain for his integrity as a commissioned officer but then also shipped across the world to Germany for another two years in foreign service. Captain Sawyer concluded his long stint in active duty with countless recognitions of his skilled leadership through military campaigns. Among his several accolades, Captain Eric Sawyer was most notably bestowed with a Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star. After serving abroad, Ric returned home determined to strengthen his New England roots and direct his career in service toward his local community. Upon retiring from the USANG with a total of 27 years as a pilot, Ric spent the remainder of his career as a state police and corporate helicopter pilot. Though he was always dutiful in his work, Ric's prosperity was ultimately reflected by way of spending time with his family, network of friends and cultivation of several hobbies. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to represent constituents who are as humble, dutiful, and distinguished as Ric Sawyer. Though Ric's legacy and character will continue to have a ripple effect as a force of altruism, particularly for those who knew him in the Bolton community, his loss and what it means for the region cannot be understated. It is worth finding solace, however, in the impact that his legacy will have upon the local community as well as his surviving family and loved ones, namely, his wife Pam, daughters Margaret and Elizabeth and son- in-law Sean, and six siblings. He is predeceased by one sibling, Richard Sawyer. To that end, I ask that the entire House join me in setting Eric Sawyer's name further into stone, and recognizing his life and service to our Nation.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, November 15, at about 3 o'clock in the afternoon, President Biden signed into law the bipartisan infrastructure bill, which, for a lot of us who have been serving around here, was an incredibly gratifying and important moment in terms of really finally getting this country ahead of the curve in terms of critical investments for infrastructure. Last Wednesday night, I held a telephone townhall on the infrastructure bill because the House had passed the measure on November 5. We had 7,000 people on the call who were either on the phone or streaming in. Lots of questions, lots of excitement. Connecticut is obviously a State that has been settled really since the origins of our Nation and has some of the oldest infrastructure in the country. Mr. Speaker, I would note, however, that some of the questions that came in said, Well, only 10 percent of the bill is for hard infrastructure, for surface transportation. What's up with that? And I was joined by Don Shubert, who is the executive director of the Connecticut Construction Industries Association, who was quick to jump into the call and point out the fact that if you step back and look at this bill, it is a continuation of the last infrastructure bill which passed in 2015, the FAST Act, which passed on a bipartisan basis and was signed into law by President Obama, and was extended twice by President Trump. Again, that baseline was kind of keeping the lights on for infrastructure. It was not, however, getting us ahead of the curve in terms of the changes that are happening in other countries around the world. And with the new money that was included in the bipartisan infrastructure bill, we are seeing a huge increase, both in roads and bridges, but also in rail, also in the electric grid, also in broadband, which is now critical for any economic development for small communities to be able to tell companies and businesses that they have high speed internet. So what does that mean in terms of the State of Connecticut? It means that the roads and the bridges--which again is a big focus--got a 32 percent increase in terms of the State's allotment, which will flow through the State's Department of Transportation. Some of the old bridges in our State--again, the largest vehicle bridge is the Gold Star Bridge, which is part of the I-95 corridor, has been getting a pounding since it was built in 1943. The northbound lane right now, quite frankly, is so compromised that large trucks are basically not given permits to travel across that bridge. Again, it is part of the Interstate Highway System. It is a $250 million job. This bill will make sure that that funding is there. It is a project labor agreement, so it is going to be union labor and apprenticeship programs incorporated into the work that is there. Again, there are countless other small bridges, medium-size bridges in the district. There is a swing bridge over the Connecticut River in East Haddam, Connecticut, that was built 108 years ago that breaks down, interferes with boat traffic going up and down the Connecticut River, that now has got full funding and is slated for repairs. Also, in terms of the rail piece, which is separate from roads and bridges, $66 billion, a big investment in the Northeast Corridor. Across the Connecticut River, there is the Old Saybrook Bridge, which is 114 years old. Anyone who sails underneath it and sees, again, how fragile the supports are for that bridge, it is screaming out for repairs. That project now will be fully funded as a result of this legislation. The Coast Guard Academy, which is in New London, Connecticut, is going to get $53 million to repair the barracks and the dormitories. Again, anyone looking at the age of those buildings, which some of our future leaders for the Coast Guard are going to school there, is getting a long overdue upgrade. As well as a city pier in New London where the USS Eagle--which is the proud sort of flagship of the U.S. Coast Guard--will now be able to tie up to modern infrastructure that is there. There is a host of other smaller projects in Tolland and Windham Counties that are included in this package. Again, I would emphasize that the total funding amount is not what some of the stuff that is out there in the media in terms of small fractions for hard infrastructure. The fact is when you incorporate the FAST Act baseline that was passed in 2015, along with the bipartisan infrastructure funding on top of it, the roads and bridges is close to 40 percent of the package. It also includes increasing and boosting the electric grid; which as we convert to electric vehicle passenger traffic, as we convert to offshore wind, which is going to be transmitting voltage to the coastline, we need to have a stronger grid. All of that is good jobs that is going to be, again, built-in, baked- in over the next five years. It is not going to create inflationary pressures because of the fact that, again, it is spread out over a period of time. It was a great day for our country. We came together on a bipartisan basis to get this done and now we are ready for a real 21st century growth that will be beneficial to all communities large and small.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding, distinguished career of Police Chief Brett Mahoney of Waterford, Connecticut. After more than 26 years of diligent service to the town of Waterford, Chief Mahoney ``pulled the pin'' and retired on October 29, 2021. He was sent off at a well-attended retirement ceremony where the department and town officials took the opportunity in heartfelt remarks to remember Chief Mahoney just as he is: a highly talented, good-natured community member and a dedicated public servant. As a native of nearby Westbrook, Connecticut, Brett steered his drive and focus toward bettering Connecticut from an early age. He placed high value in obtaining an education, graduating with a bachelor's in English Literature from Central Connecticut State University. Upon obtaining his first degree, Brett eagerly began his work in Connecticut law enforcement with a brief stint at the East Hampton Police Department before starting his nearly three-decade-long journey with Waterford Police in 1995. In his first few years as a Waterford patrol officer, Brett distinguished himself within the department by dutifully serving on task forces with the Federal Bureau of Investigation as well as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. His valuable contributions to the force were rightfully recognized by the department as he rose through the ranks to Sergeant in 1999 and then to Lieutenant in 2005. During his time as Lieutenant, Brett committed himself to advancing his law enforcement education, graduating from the FBI National Academy in 2012 and returning to Central Connecticut to earn a master's degree in Criminal Justice. His work with the FBI is something I particularly appreciate, since my father Robert Courtney who spent his retirement years in Waterford served in the FBI during World War II in its Manhattan office. In October 2015, Lieutenant Mahoney was promoted to Waterford's Chief of Police. It was not just his accomplished background that produced this promotion, but also his obvious leadership qualities. As Chief, Brett led the department with compassion for his community and commitment to ensure the department's success by modernizing and enhancing its members' capabilities. Chief Mahoney strengthened community engagement by integrating 21st technology into the town and department. During his time as Chief, Brett became chairman of the town's Information Technology Committee and oversaw the department-wide rollout of body cameras for all Waterford officers, building upon an already existent brand of transparency with the community. Brett's transformational leadership extended far beyond the department. Chief Mahoney utilized the department as a stalwart supporter in community outreach efforts like the Waterford Youth and Family Services 2020 Turkey Drive and breast cancer fundraisers for Waterford-led foundations. Chief Mahoney also initiated one of the first-of-its-kind programs in Connecticut, where Waterford officers were trained to connect and interact with community members diagnosed with cognitive impairments so that they had greater sensitivity and awareness with the town's more vulnerable population. Through this new program, first responders have honed their emergency response tactics and gained a refined understanding of the needs of their fellow community members. Chief Mahoney's emphasis on positive departmental and community change coupled with his genuine compassion for Waterford has undoubtedly left the town and the police department in a stronger, better position than it was 26 years ago. Madam Speaker, as the representative for the town of Waterford, Connecticut I can firmly state that it is constituents like Brett Mahoney whose dedication to their community represents the best of Eastern Connecticut's spirit. Even though he is stepping away from the department, Chief Mahoney has affirmed that his heart will always lay with the Town of Waterford and that he will continue to support the local department any way he can as a resident. Now that he has positioned the department for greater success along with the help of his colleagues, Brett will embark on a new chapter with his family--his wife, Michelle, and two daughters Marin and Clara--as deputy chief of police with the University of New Haven. To that end, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring and thanking Waterford Police Chief Brett Mahoney for his exemplary service and to wish the Mahoney family all the best on their new path in life.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Protecting America's First Responders Act. This is an important bill that includes a provision that I have worked on for the last three Congresses to extend the PSOB program to fire police officers. A dozen States have officers designated by law as fire police, who provide critical support at the scenes of fires, explosions, and serious accidents. They secure the perimeter so that other first responders can do their work safely. However, because there is no uniform national designation for fire police, the current PSOB program doesn't cover these officers, even if they are killed or seriously injured on the job, which sadly has occurred. It is only right that they receive the same protection as other public safety officers. This bill eliminates this exclusion and ensures that fire police and their families get the same benefits others do who provide first responder work. I want to acknowledge the Gales Ferry Fire Department and Ledyard, Connecticut, Fire Chief Anthony Saccone, who has tirelessly advocated for fire police over the last few years. Thanks to their advocacy and engagement and Mr. Pascrell's great support, we will finally send this fix to the President's desk for signature. Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of the bill.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to spend a few minutes to talk about an October 15 visit to Connecticut by President Biden where he actually put the eyes of the country for a couple of hours on a critical issue that his Build Back Better agenda is focused on fixing, which is, namely, the crisis in child daycare all across the country. On Friday, my colleagues and I, as well as President Biden, visited the Capitol Child Development Center, where the executive director, Barbara Jo Warner, laid out very clearly the dilemma that she and her colleagues who are in this very struggling sector are faced with today. Before COVID, her center had 70 slots for children completely full, with a waiting list. Today, they have 20 children in the same daycare center. Is it because there is no demand? No, that is not the case. There still is a waiting list of families who are trying to get their kids into daycare. Her problem is that the staffing that she had prior to COVID has severely diminished, and her ability to attract people back into her program is limited by the fact that she is only able to offer $13 an hour as a starting wage for people in a very important job for our country as well as families of the children that they take care of. So we are in a situation where they are in a place where McDonald's pays more, at $15 an hour, than a daycare center, at $13 an hour. It is a problem which is, I think, one of the reasons why the jobs recovery has stalled, particularly for families and women heads-of- household who, again, don't have centers with slots available because of the staffing problem that Ms. Warner described to the President and to the world on Friday. The Build Back Better legislation, he discussed it, finally, in a different kind of context, in terms of the horse race down here and who is up, who is down, which faction is negotiating what. He focused on the content of the Build Back Better legislation, which is addressed to provide a huge infusion of support for our daycare sector. What that provision will do is cap the amount of out-of-pocket for families who are using child daycare at 7 percent of income. Today, low- and middle-income families spend between 14 and 35 percent of their income on daycare. If we get this through, we are immediately going to provide savings for families with their kids in daycare. In Connecticut, looking at a family making $87,000 a year, that basically would result in weekly savings of $175 a week, which is definitely a huge boost in terms of working families and middle-class families, which this bill would provide. Again, I want to emphasize, this is not a Connecticut problem. This is happening all across the country, and the median or the average salary for daycare centers across the country is actually $12 an hour, a little lower than what the President heard about on Friday. If we are serious about a real job recovery and giving families the opportunity to really go back to work, why don't we listen to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the largest business organization in the country, which recognized during COVID that support for child daycare is essential, in terms of trying to get working-age families back into the workforce. Again, the openings are there. I could walk through employers in the State of Connecticut. Electric Boat in my district has about 500 job openings right now. They want to get those Gen Z'ers and millennials trained up and ready to go. But if they don't have a place for their children to be cared for safely and adequately, then we are just basically in a cul-de-sac where this economy is going to be held back. The Build Back Better agenda is not soft infrastructure. It is right at the heart of whether or not we are going to, as a country, fully recover and grow in the wake of this pandemic. It is something that hopefully every Member, when the time comes for this package, when that daycare provision is included in there, will think about long and hard because this is not a Connecticut-only issue. This affects every State, red and blue; every district, red and blue; every employer, in red and blue areas of the country. If anyone can't support that, then they are not serious about really helping this country recover from the pandemic. Again, I thank the President for coming out and really focusing like a laser on this issue. I thank Executive Director Barbara Jo Warner for her clear message to the country.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and commend Captain Todd D. Moore for his time as the Commanding Officer of Naval Submarine Base New London. After two and a half years of diligent service as the 52nd Commanding Officer of SUBASE New London located in Groton, Connecticut, Captain Moore turned over his command to Captain Kenneth M. Curtin, Jr. on September 24, 2021 at a Change of Command ceremony on the base with family, friends, and colleagues in attendance. Although his time as the Commanding Officer at Naval Submarine Base New London has concluded, Captain Moore's legacy with the U.S. submarine Force will live on as an impressive example of leadership during an unprecedented global pandemic. Native to Willoughby Hill, Ohio, Captain Moore was quick to expand his horizons and achieve an education that spanned multiple states. He graduated from New York's Hamilton College summa cum laude with degrees in Physics and Classical Studies. From there, he enriched his military career path with a master's degree in National Security and Strategic Studies at the Naval War College. It is worth noting Captain Moore carried on the values of education throughout his career and the betterment of his naval service with his participation and completion of an advanced, joint warfare training at the Joint Forces Staff College's Joint and Combined War-fighting School in 2007. Armed with a qualified educational background, Captain Moore was of course already on his way to a decorated and accomplished naval career prior to his time as Commanding Officer of SUBASE New London. He completed three deployments in the Indo-Pacific as a division officer aboard the USS Pasadena, as the Combat Systems Officer aboard the USS Asheville, and as the Executive Officer about the USS Georgia. He went on to serve as Commanding Officer of both the USS New Mexico and more recently the USS Montpelier immediately prior to his service as Commanding Officer of SUBASE New London. In his time in Command of the USS New Mexico, Captain Moore conducted the very first Virginia-class submarine surfacing at the North Pole and successfully completed a Northern Atlantic deployment. Captain Moore served our nation in a wide range of capacities both on land and at sea. On the international front, Captain Moore played a role as the United Nations' Military Observer for the UN's peacekeeping mission in the Western Sahara, known as MINURSO. Notably, Captain Moore further directed his service toward our national security apparatus as branch chief in the Capability and Resource Integration directorate at U.S. Strategic Command. Here in eastern Connecticut, Moore also spent time as the lead tactics instructor at the Naval Submarine School in Groton, Connecticut. Captain Moore continued his example of service as a Deputy on the staffs of Submarine Squadron Twelve and Four and as a Prospective Commanding Officer and Intermediate Leadership Course instructor for the Naval Leadership & Ethics Center. Since 2019, Commanding Officer Moore has played an effective and crucial role as the man-in-charge of SUBASE New London. In his time as Commanding Officer for SUBASE New London, Captain Moore pursued campaigns to meaningfully connect with the naval community. This pursuit paid huge dividends when his stewardship of the base turned itself on its head with the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic employing his down to earth ``nuts and bolts'' leadership style, Captain Moore led his community through the worst of the pandemic, setting a nationwide example for morale and public health with the base achieving the highest vaccination rates among all Navy installations, at home and abroad. In doing so, Captain Moore maintained the essential day-to-day mission of the base, keeping sailors trained and ever improving upon their mission of combat readiness. The 15 attack submarines stationed in Groton still kept a high tempo of deployments and did not miss one single day of schedule due to the pandemic. Captain Moore never ceased his work to better the community on SUBASE New London via his connection to the families and childcare on the naval base. During his command, he oversaw the opening of the only United Service Organizations center in Connecticut which will continue to help provide much-needed resources and relief for the servicemembers and families of SUBASE New London. For all his efforts in his two and a half years of command, it is no surprise that the men and women at Naval Submarine Base New London will remember Captain Moore as he is--a devoted, enduring, and passionate leader. Madam Speaker, I have had the honor to represent the Town of Groton and the servicemembers on SUBASE New London for many years in Congress, and as such, I have seen firsthand Captain Moore's dedicated work. As he turns over his command of SUBASE New London, Captain Moore will continue to work on the base with the Undersea Warfighting Development Center to help decide future investment priorities for the submarine force. To that end, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in congratulating and thanking Captain Todd D. Moore on a long history of service to our country, and further wishing himself, his wife Carrie and two children the best in this new chapter for their family.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, this morning, I wanted to share with the Chamber the latest statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and the Department of Health and Human Services regarding infection rates and vaccination rates in the country. I am proud to say, the State of Connecticut, which the Speaker knows well, we ranked as the lowest infection rate in the country, 1.4 percent, 14 cases per 100,000. Simultaneous with that report were the numbers regarding vaccination rates. For the population 18 and over, we are at an 80 percent vaccination rate, which, again, is the highest in the country. It is blindingly obvious there is a causal connection between communities that come together to boost vaccination rates and the benefit and the result of reducing infection rates. The benefit, in terms of our hospital system in the State of Connecticut, again, we have 9 per 100,000 COVID patients, which ranks number three in the country, right behind Vermont and the State of Massachusetts, which are 7 per 100,000 and 8 per 100,000. What does that mean? It means there is no pressure on your ICU units. There is allowance for normal elective surgeries and the processes of hospitals to continue, which is the endgame of what we all should be focused on like a laser, which is to get beyond this pandemic. It didn't happen by itself. Anecdotally, in my district, I was over at the Coast Guard Academy the other day: a 99 percent vaccination rate with the student body at the Coast Guard Academy. These are the future leaders of our coastal sea service, and they get it. They understand the benefits, that they can attend class and have a normal campus life. Across the river, the submarine base in Groton, again, just shy of a 90 percent vaccination rate. That is 10,000 sailors and officers. These are people with families. These are folks who have pregnant spouses. But they get it. I mean, there is no way you can socially distance in a submarine. They are now the number one naval installation in America in terms of vaccination rates. Again, it did not happen by itself. Governor Lamont, back in the spring of 2020, basically tuned out all the noise. He brought together experts from the Yale School of Public Health. He brought together experts from the Hartford HealthCare hospital system, which is the largest hospital system. They brought together the community health centers. They brought together community groups. They stayed focused in terms of getting testing, masking, and vaccinations out there to the public at large. I would note, Madam Speaker, that when we passed the American Rescue Plan back in March, like every State, we were given an allocation to our public health system for communication and education. Again, it has been put to good use, obviously, as these numbers show this morning. On Tuesday, the Biden administration announced the release of funding for community health centers, which have been the backbone in terms of reaching hard-to-get populations, to get the help that they need during this pandemic. In eastern Connecticut, the two community health systems--United Children and Family Services, and Generations--are getting close to $1 million for new equipment and new infrastructure to carry out their mission to make sure that we are going to beat this virus once and for all. All the issues that we talk about here--and they are all so important--right now, we still cannot be distracted from the need to get on the other side of this pandemic. These numbers from my State today show that when you work together, when you just combat all the misinformation and bad stuff that is out there about vaccines and masking--we had a hearing in Hartford where we had people up there saying that the authorization from the FDA was only for the German vaccine, not the American Pfizer vaccine, which is ridiculous. That stuff is out there, but we have overcome that. Again, the numbers speak for themselves in terms of that success. I look forward to working with my colleagues to make sure that we keep this priority number one, two, and three because that is how we recover our economy, and that is how we recover a normal life in this country. So, let's work together.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, it is with great regret that I rise today to mourn and observe the passing of an inspiring individual and dedicated public servant, Richard ``Dick'' C. Bowman, of Vernon, Connecticut. A passionate educator, devoted firefighter, and a loving family man, Dick passed away on September 10, 2021, in his home surrounded by his loved ones at the age of 74. Born in Oxford, Massachusetts to Harriet and Reverend Paul Bowman, Dick moved with his family to Vernon at an early age and remained dedicated to his local community throughout his life. After graduating from Rockville High School, Dick attended Boston University where he received a bachelor's degree in speech pathology and education. From there, he propelled his passion for education forward and went on to receive a master's in special education from Central Connecticut State College as well as a 6th-year degree in educational administration from the University of Connecticut. Armed with an impressive degree of knowledge, Dick went on to pursue an enriching career in education to give back to the school system that had granted him invaluable wisdom and a pathway to success. For the next 15 years, Dick was a speech pathologist and special education supervisor for the Vernon Board of Education where he excelled and made compassion and encouragement the top priorities for his students and educators. Soon after, he became an assistant principal and interim principal at Rockville High, and even after his eventual retirement in 2004, Dick remained dedicated to the Vernon community through his committee positions with several scholarship and trust organizations. Dick's devotion to his community and to service did not stop with his work in education. He was a devout member of the Vernon Union Congregational Church where he served as a choir member, mentor, leader, and committeeman. Dick's care for his community also led him to 50 years of service as a volunteer fighter for both the Vernon and Rockville Fire Departments. During his time, Dick was a member on several Department committees and successfully rose to the ranking of 2nd lieutenant for the Department. As the only active member on both the Vernon and Rockville Fire Departments, he became a conduit between the two departments and played a key role in unifying Vernon and Rockville under one authority. For his efforts in the merge, the Vernon Fire Department appointed him as a Charter Member. In January of 2020, Dick's unwavering dedication to his community rightfully earned him a Life Membership from the Town of Vernon's Fire Department. Even after his retirement from active firefighting, Dick continued to serve his town through numerous committees for the Vernon Fire Department and happily watched his grandson, Adam, become a fifth- generation Bowman firefighter. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to have the opportunity to represent constituents as devoted and caring toward their community as Richard Bowman. I have had the honor to represent the Town of Vernon for many years in Congress, and have seen firsthand Dick Bowman's diligent work. I also live in the town, and am grateful for his efforts to keep the town, my neighborhood, and my family safe. Dick leaves behind his wife, Carol, alongside two sons, his grandchildren, and his nieces and nephews. He loved attending his grandchildren's school and athletic events and will be remembered by his family as a loving husband, uncle, father, and grandfather. His memory will live on through them and reverberate throughout the community he proudly served. To that end, I ask that my colleagues and this Chamber join me in setting Richard's legacy further into stone, and expressing our deepest respect for Richard's work and life.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the Members of the House to join me in mourning the passing of Ralph Monaco, a highly talented and respected lawyer in the State of Connecticut, a devoted husband and father, and all-around outstanding citizen who cared for his community and always went above and beyond to help others. We tragically lost Ralph on July 10, 2021 at the young age of 54. Ralph truly represented the best of eastern Connecticut and was a role model to so many in the field of law. His legacy and his leadership in private practice and in the public sphere will always be remembered and cherished. Ralph was born in the Bronx in 1967 and spent most of his adolescence in the Big Apple. After exceling in his primary and secondary education, he decided to continue his education and attended Fordham University. While there--he made the decision that he would pursue a career in the field of law and chose to attend Quinnipiac Law School in North Haven, Connecticut, where his love for law truly flourished. After a successful academic career and graduation from law school in 1993--Ralph pursued his legal career and ventured to become a trial lawyer right here in eastern Connecticut. Through his determination and hard work, Ralph ascended in the field and became a partner at a firm right here in New London, CT at Conway, Londregan, Sheehan & Monaco P.C. His passion for the law eventually carried Ralph to becoming an active member of the Connecticut Bar Association (CBA). There, through his convivial personality and highly ethical and sophisticated knowledge of the law, he rose through the ranks and became the 87th and youngest President in the history of the CBA by 2010. With the CBA, he formed relationships with many public officials and led several initiatives within the organization including his activity as the founder of the Civics Education Committee and serving as chair of the Modernizing Lawyer Referrals & Law Firm Models Subcommittee of the State of the Legal Profession Task Force; as well as the legislative liaison of the Litigation Section. Moreover--he was a crucial contributor to the CBA's Volunteer Attorney Program which grants families and individuals in need access to pro-bono legal assistance. Ralph's community involvement went far beyond his major contributions to the CBA. He served on the Jury Committee of the Chief Justice's Public Safety and Trust Commission and was appointed by Connecticut Secretary of the State Denise W. Merrill to serve on the Civics Commission. He was also an active member of the Connecticut Trial Lawyers Association, Connecticut Bar Foundation, and New London County Bar Association. Ralph was an individual who gave all his energy to supporting the greater good and one cannot quantify all the lives he positively impacted with his contributions to our eastern Connecticut community through the field of law. We will be forever grateful for Ralph's efforts and will work to carry his legacy of compassion. Those who had the pleasure of working with Ralph attest to his tireless and focused work ethic. Ralph was a gentleman but not stuffy-- he enjoyed a good laugh and was sensitive to anyone he interacted with. I had the pleasure to get to him know him during my years in the practice of law and as his Congressman. Ralph's sudden and unexpected loss has left a void in Eastern Connecticut and the legal community. Madam Speaker, to that end, I again ask that my colleagues and this Chamber to join me in expressing our deepest respect for Ralph's work and life and send our deepest condolences to the Monaco family. Ralph is survived by his wife Dina and daughters Abby and Anna--his sister Angela--and many other family members and friends who will carry the lasting memory of Ralph in their hearts.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the retirement of Attorney William ``Bill'' H. St. Onge after fifty years in the legal profession. Bill recently announced his retirement from a busy smalltown practice that ethically and capably represented thousands of individuals and families, sometimes at moments of crisis. Despite that demanding schedule he still found time to elevate the profession as an active member of the Connecticut Bar Association, and completed a distinguished stint serving his conununity as the First Selectmen of Putnam. Throughout his years, Bill has been a shining example of professionalism, compassion, and service to those around him. His retirement is one that is well-deserved. Bill's family has a long history of public service most notably his father Congressman William St. Onge, who served the Second district of eastern Connecticut from 1963 to 1970 with great success. That example certainly rubbed off on Bill Junior who has been a life-long contributor to the local community in northeastern Connecticut and someone who avidly followed world and national politics. I have always particularly enjoyed when Bill would share stories about his father as well as his shrewd understanding of public affairs. Bill was a graduate of Georgetown University and continued his education by attending the University of Connecticut Law School. Upon obtaining his JD in 1974, Bill went on to practice law through to his retirement. As I mentioned earlier, that while fresh in the field of practice, Bill wasted no time in running for and serving as First Selectman of Putnam, which he did so very successfully for nearly a decade. Even after leading his town as First Selectman, Bill remained a constant in the community and utilized his expertise to give back to his neighbors. Providing a form of accessible representation for fellow towns like Killingly and Thompson, Bill ran a highly successful small- town practice for probate, municipal, and real estate law. As the local lawyer, he sought to continuously improve upon the services available to those in the area, taking the initiative to serve on the Connecticut Bar Association's Task Force on the Future of Probate Court. He was also a staple at town meetings and local proceedings, providing legal advice and often cooling local issues of passion to the respectful, personable tone that they deserved. His thoughtful nature as a practicing lawyer always kept the town discussion purposeful and productive. As someone who practiced law for 27 years in nearby Tolland County, I did have the opportunity to work with Bill on real estate closings and an occasional civil matter. He was a true gentleman--very pragmatic, down to earth and cordial in all his dealings--kind of a modem-day Atticus Finch. Madam Speaker, Attorney St. Onge's passion for his home was a predominant presence throughout his life and career. His wife and children, Jane, Will and Caroline as well as his grandchildren and his many friends in Connecticut can attest to his caring, thoughtful approach to all he came into contact with. Although his long career is coming to an end, his family legacy of passion and work for his home will unquestionably go on to reverberate throughout the Town of Putnam and beyond for years to come. I can only hope that the example of his service is carried on and that hope he enjoys a fruitful retirement with his wife, children and grandchildren. To that end, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring and congratulating Attorney St. Onge for his dedication to the public and nearly 50-year exceptional career.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the Members of the House to join me in mourning the passing of one of our Nation's foremost experts on aviation safety and infrastructure, George ``Pratt'' Howard of Deep River, Connecticut. Known as Peter to family and friends--he passed away at his home in Deep River on January 30, 2021. Peter has moved on from this world but his spirit of love for his neighbors and community will never dissipate, and will continue to inspire us to put the public good above personal ambition or gain, and always treat one another with compassion and care. Born in New York City's Greenwich Village--Peter spent most of his childhood in the city and absorbed the cultural and community diversity in the big apple that would positively influence his creative and artistic mind later in life. An avid student and passionate learner-- Peter left the city after high school to earn a degree in economics from the University of Virginia before returning to the city to acquire a master's in business administration from New York University. Following university, Peter decided to pursue a career in a field that he had a true passion for--aviation. With that, Peter joined the Air Force where he gained firsthand knowledge of aviation as he worked with some of the most advanced military grade technology to exist in that time from 1952 to 1955. After receiving significant experience in the ins and outs of aviation in the Air Force, Peter began a life-long journey in the civilian aviation space serving in leadership positions in several organizations including Director of Marketing for Eastern Airlines, and Chief of Economics/Asst. Director for Policy and External affairs for the port authorities of both New York and New Jersey. In 1989, Peter landed a job that would allow him to have a direct impact on aviation policy in our nation--he became the new executive director of the Airport Operators Council International. In this role, he worked tirelessly in his advocacy of policy and procedural changes to improve the safety and effectiveness of American airports. His expertise was highly valued by all his colleagues and was often sought- after by policy makers. Proof of this can be seen in countless news media interviews and multiple testimonies he gave in Congressional hearings. In his work with Congress, he played a critical role in the Aviation Safety and Capacity Expansion Act of 1990. Since passage, this legislation has raised over $60 billion for airports in supporting passenger safety. Peter's work with aviation policy was truly light years ahead of his time as he understood that with increased air traffic and globalization--safety would need to become a number one priority for American airline companies and our domestic security apparatus. Peter was steadfast in his commitment to our nation's aviation industry and his efforts have inspired others to continue the mission of ensuring that our air travel procedure always meet the most comprehensive safety standards. Outside of the field of aviation, Peter was also an accomplished art historian who always used his wealth of knowledge to educate and enlighten anyone who was interested in the field. This included municipal governments and non-profit organizations in New York and Connecticut who used Peter's insights to expand their community arts and historical preservation programs. As a New York Resident, Peter was always active in his community and even became President of the Brooklyn Heigh association from 1967 to 1969. As President--Peter was one of the driving forces in the passage of New York's landmark law which resulted in Brooklyn Heights becoming the first designated Historic district in New York City. Later in life--Peter moved to Deep River and officially became a resident of Connecticut. As a Deep River resident, Peter tirelessly contributed to this historic Connecticut river town whose rich history and high quality of life he passionately championed. He offered his public policy expertise as an adviser to the Board of Selectman, and the town greatly benefitted from his creative solutions to complex problems, without incurring the high cost of consultants. I also recall Peter's tremendous efforts in establishing the town's first Design Advisory Board for which he became its first chairman. In this role, he organized and executed art galleries for the town that displayed local artwork, including artwork from students at the local high school. He would also work together with the rest of the board to review and critique ideas for development in the town put together by the Planning & Zoning Commission. What Peter did for art and historical preservation in every community he lived in is truly remarkable. Madam Speaker, it was an honor to represent a constituent as caring and compassionate for his community and Nation as Peter, who's dedication to our community and the town of Deep River went far beyond his service in local government. As a longtime friend and supporter of my work as a congressman, I always enjoyed talking to Peter and picking his brain on experiences he had with the U.S. Congress in the past and his well-informed opinions on current events, both at home and abroad. Even in his free time, he went the extra mile to enhance the community, from personally landscaping at the Veteran's Garden to helping design the local town pharmacy. Although his memory will live on through countless others, including his wife of 50 years, Sukey Howard, his three daughters, Connie, Kitty, and Ginger, his four grandchildren, and one great grandson, our eastern Connecticut community owes him an immeasurable level of gratitude. To that end, I ask that my colleagues and this Chamber join me in expressing our deepest condolences to the Howard Family and setting Peter Howard's name further into stone.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to honor the life of the late John K. Anderson, of Vernon, Connecticut, who passed away suddenly on June 16, 2021, at the age of 74. Known by family and close friends as Johnny, his military service, civic engagement, and devotion to his family and the greater Vernon community warrants the utmost praise and recognition. Born to Merrill and Isabelle Anderson of Manchester, Connecticut, John began his early years fanning what would become a life dedicated to public service. After graduating from Manchester High School in 1965, John went on to serve in the United States Air Force as an Aircraft Maintenance Specialist and crew leader. He served overseas in Germany, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Greece before receiving an Honorable Discharge and returning home to Connecticut. With his return home and affinity for hard work, John hit the ground running and opened his own business. His business smarts and entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him into the automotive trade where he joined the team at Bolle's Motor Sales in Ellington, Connecticut. A natural people person--John excelled at the dealership and fostered strong relationships with his coworkers and clients. It was this ability to communicate naturally with folks from all walks of life that led John to dedicate the latter half of his life toward building a positive impact on the lives of others within his local community. From his leadership at the Water Pollution Control Authority to being one of Vernon's Registrar of Voters--John embarked on a path of serving in municipal government that set his legacy as a leader of the public in stone. During part of his tenure, I was the Vernon town attorney and had the opportunity to see up close his calm practical approach to solving problems. With his wealth of knowledge of the town and its voting operations, and dedication to public service, registrars from around the state would go to John with their questions. At a time when the integrity of our nation's elections has become subject to doubt and controversy, John's service in recent years was particularly valuable. No one questioned his performance or work--not for one moment. John epitomized what it meant to be a kind and caring citizen in a small town and always sought opportunities to engage with his community. John was also known for his regular penmanship of editorials in the local news and his nuanced perspective on civic issues that impacted the community. While we remember John as a leader in public service--we also remember him as a man who truly loved his family, friends, and neighbors--a love that drove him to enhance his community even further. John, like all of us, was someone who filled his life with passions and hobbies--two of which were baseball and golf. An avid Red Sox fan and great golfer, John used sports as another avenue to connect to his community and was a youth baseball coach and a volunteer at the annual Thanksgiving Day Manchester Road Race. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to represent constituents as honorable and impactful as John Anderson. While we all mourn his loss, we can at least find solace that his memory lives on through his surviving family: his children Carly, Lauren, Justin and grandchildren; sister Carol; brother Rick; and four grandchildren. His life will also continue to live on through countless others as the stoic example he has set has now been woven into the very fabric of the Vernon community. To that end, I find it fitting that we, the People's House, set his name and character into the Congressional Record and ask that the entire House join me in recognizing the life of John K. Anderson, never forgetting his impact on the greater Vernon community through his civic and military service.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, last January, in one of his first executive orders, President Biden extended the student loan pause on monthly payments through the end of September. This order allowed all direct student loans issued by the Federal Government through the U.S. Department of Education, again, to have a grace period during the recession that we are still experiencing. Even with a good job growth last month, 800,000 jobs added to the economy, a 5.6 percent unemployment rate, and having people starting to again recover, the need for that pause was blindingly obvious. A couple weeks ago, myself and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley wrote to President Biden and the Secretary of Education calling on the President to extend that pause again. We are about 60 days away from all these student loans snapping back with very high interest rates, and again, at a time when the economy is still recovering. Madam Speaker, this is exactly what the Small Business Administration did for disaster loans issued during COVID when they extended the grace period allowed of 1 year, when those loans were issued during COVID, to have that grace period extended into 2022. That was a smart, wise move recognizing that this is the wrong time to add debt burden on individuals and businesses as the U.S. economy starts to recover. Again, we understand that at some point we are going to have to have a return to student loan debt payments, but, again, there are additional reasons why this pause makes sense. Two of the largest debt servicers, the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, which services a large number of student loan debts, announced a couple of weeks ago they are withdrawing from the program, which means that borrowers are going to be shifted to new servicers, as well as the New Hampshire Higher Education Loan Corporation. So again, the dislocation and the change that is happening with student loan servicers are additional reasons why the President and Secretary Cardona should agree to our request. Moving forward, it is time for Congress to act to fix some of the problems within the student loan space. Congressman Dusty Johnson and I, on a bipartisan basis, back in January, introduced the Recognizing Military Service in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Act. A companion bill in the Senate was introduced by Senator Rubio and Senator Hassan. Again, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program was created back in 2007 basically to allow teachers, nurses, people serving in the military, cops--who will, again, make 10 years of payments on their student loans while holding down public service jobs--to be eligible for discharge of their student loan debt. The last administration butchered this program. People who, again, for 10 years abided by the rules were refused and denied student loan discharge, including people serving in the military. Our bill will untangle that bottleneck, will recognize that people who are on Active Duty overseas, away from their families, who again, were allowed a grace period in terms of monthly payments, those months will be credited towards public service loan forgiveness. It has been endorsed by every veteran service organization from VFW to the Iraq and Afghan War Veterans, and again, is a smart bipartisan bill which will help a population of people who perform the highest form of public service; namely, wearing the uniform of this country. We should also, as Congress, change the law to allow people to refinance down the interest rate on their student loan debt. When these loans snap back, we are looking at 6 percent, 7 percent, 8 percent interest on legacy student loan debt. The rest of the economy with a zero percent benchmark at the Federal Reserve is refinancing debt on homes, on consumer loans, on auto debt, but student loan borrowers are trapped unless Congress acts. H.R. 3024 allows the Department of Education to refinance down the interest rates on student loan debt so that people, again, in a very low-interest rate environment--and the chairman of the Federal Reserve announced the other day he is going to keep the benchmark at zero through 2021. Student loan borrowers should get the benefit of those low interest rates just like every other middle class family that refinances their home or their consumer debt. So, extend the pause. Let's fix the problems in the meantime. Congress can act. The millennials, the young people of this country deserve our help, both to act with the tools that we have, and also, calling on the administration to provide an additional grace period just like we did for small businesses.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today in honor of the life of the late Commander Merle James Smith Jr., the first Black graduate of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Academy in New London, CT, and the first Black officer to command a warship in close quarters combat. Commander Smith passed away June 16, 2021, at the age of 76. It was an honor to know Commander Merle Smith and bare witness to all the incredible milestones he achieved in his life. He was a true patriot who always placed others before himself. Born in Greenville, South Carolina to retired Army Colonel Merle James Smith Sr. and Jacqueline T. Smith, Merle grew up in many cities across the United States as well as Germany and Japan. He graduated from Aberdeen High School in Maryland before choosing to attend the Coast Guard Academy in 1962 to play football under the coaching of Otto Graham, the former professional Cleveland Browns quarterback player. Graduating with a degree in marine engineering in 1966, Officer Smith's first assignment was to serve aboard the Minnetonka as a communication officer. He went on to command the Coast Guard Cutter, Cape Walsh, for two years before joining forces in Vietnam where he commanded the USCG Cutters Point Mast and Point Ellie, and made history serving as the first Black commanding officer in close quarters combat. He commanded these ships through more than eighty fire support missions during the successful Operation Market Time, which halted the movement of supplies into South Vietnam. For his heroic service, Commander Smith earned a Bronze star, a Navy Meritorious Unit Citation, Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry and Vietnam Campaign Medal, among several other accolades. After returning from the war, Commander Smith was stationed at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he attended George Washington University's School of Law where he met his wife of 47 years, Lynda. Upon graduating with a Juris Doctor, Commander Smith moved back to Connecticut to resume his activities at the Academy, this time as a professor in Jaw. As expected, Commander Smith excelled in his role as a professor and gained notoriety for his ability to keep his students engaged. Commander Smith went on to teach for 13 years and after enriching the minds of thousands of cadets--Commander Smith retired from this role and his active duty service in 1979. Commander Smith's service to our nation however continued at the Coast Guard Reserves for nine years as Commander of the Coast Guard Reserve. Commander Smith simultaneously was recruited by our nation's largest submarine manufacturer, General Dynamic Electric Boat, to join their legal team. Commander Smith worked at Electric Boat for 16 years and made his way up to Chief Council before officially retiring in 1995. From beginning to end, awe inspiring is the only way to really describe what was Commander Smith's career and life. To memorialize all he did for our nation--the Coast Guard Academy announced it will rename its Military Officers Club in honor of him and here in D.C.--our very own National Museum of African American History and Culture proclaimed that they will set up a special exhibit in honor of Commander Smith and his life. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to represent constituents who are as humble, dutiful, and distinguished as Commander Smith. While we mourn his passing, we can take pride in his legacy which will continue to echo through the United States Coast Guard community as an example to our future military leaders. Please keep Commander Smith's family--his loving wife Lynda, children Merle J. Smith III, Chelsea, and Danielle-- in your thoughts as they now carry his memory forward. I ask that the entire House join me in recognizing his life and service to our nation.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and celebrate another chapter of the remarkable career of local business leader, community role model, and true friend to my office, Nancy Cowser. A long-established pillar within the social services and economic development sectors in the eastern Connecticut community, Nancy will now take her wisdom and experiences to the world of academia as the chief advancement and alumni relations officer for Mitchell College. I cannot think of a better hire for one of our top local colleges than Nancy, as she truly represents the best and brightest in business leadership and community partnership in Connecticut. Having received an undergraduate degree in finance from Boston College and an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Nancy began her career in the banking industry as a mortgage auditor and exceled with her natural leadership and organizational skills. However, Nancy eventually found herself drawn to social services, which led her to United Community and Family Services (UCFS) in Norwich. As the senior vice president of strategy, Nancy worked tirelessly to ensure that constituents across eastern Connecticut had access to services such as healthcare and mental and substance abuse treatment to ensure each individual could experience a better quality of life. It was during her tenure with UCFS that my office had the first opportunity to work with Nancy. I believe one of the major highlights from both of our careers is when UCFS finally received designation as a Federally Qualified Health Center in 2015, after attempting to do so for eight long years. This critical designation enabled UCFS to receive significant federal funding and in turn allowed UCFS to enhance their primary care services and offer specialty care services, and Nancy was an essential part of this impactful achievement. Nancy is someone who knows that true community development happens when partnerships are developed and organizations work together to meet a common goal. In her work, Nancy became known as a master networker and someone who brought everyone to the table regardless of background or politics. Nancy's reputation and skillset brought her enormous respect and admiration from community coalitions and armed her with tools needed to take the helm of the Southeastern Connecticut Enterprise Region (seCTer) in 2016. Nancy hit the ground running as seCTer's executive director. Due to her years of collaboration with community partners, Nancy knew the lay of the land and quickly got to work solidifying relationships and creating pipelines to bring economic stakeholders together. Bolstered by a series of successes within the seCTer loan program, PTAC, and the CEDS' 2017 recognition by the National Association of Development Organizations as a national best practice model, Nancy aided one of the district's largest employers, General Dynamic Electric Boat, in developing an extensive pipeline of subcontractors to fuel the top submarine production force in our nation. In 2019, with Nancy leading the way, seCTer organized our region's largest business networking event, ``Leading the Way'', to connect General Dynamic procurement personnel with potential suppliers from across Connecticut and throughout New England. The tremendous success of this event exemplified Nancy's ability to bring a multitude of diverse companies under one roof to create new business opportunities and relationships that continue to flourish to this day. However, we must not forget, our region's defense industry is only one of many sectors that Nancy took under her tutelage to grow. From breweries to manufacturers, and even local gyms--Nancy was always a phone call away to help guide any business in driving its potential for growth. It was this niche ability to work with so many diverse companies and understand each of their needs that makes Nancy such a pivotal business leader in our district. With Nancy's departure from seCTer, we see the before and after of her time at the organization, and know that her impact that will continue to propel seCTer forward for years to come. Madam Speaker, I am truly proud to call Nancy a colleague and most importantly a friend. I have witnessed first-hand her professional growth and her ability to spur significant economic growth within the 2nd district. Now taking her talents to Mitchell College, our paths will continue to cross as we tackle the issues facing the academic sector. One cannot really quantify the influence Nancy has had on our region, from her work at UCFS to seCTer, but I know that she has moved mountains for our communities, and her trajectory of success will only continue upward. I ask everyone in the Chamber to please rise and applaud Nancy for her outstanding career and thank her for all that she has done to help Connecticut businesses and residents. Nancy is a true pillar of Connecticut. We wish her continued happiness and success.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my support for the INVEST Act which finally, at long last, includes robust funding for roads, bridges, rail, and new incentives to address climate change equity and most importantly job creation. However, I want to clearly state my deep concerns for an amendment adopted by the House, which creates a so-called North Atlantic Rail Interstate Compact to control the development of high-speed rail. I share the intent of the authors of the amendment to support high- speed rail throughout the Northeast. Connecticut and the Northeast region are home to some of the most densely-populated areas of the country, which are served well by mass transit, and high-speed rail would have significant positive impacts for our region and our nation as a whole. That is why I am proud to support the underlying bill, which triples funding to Amtrak and provides a 500 percent increase in the funding dedicated to improving high speed and passenger rail. The resources provided in the INVEST Act signal an unprecedented opportunity for the New England region, at the state and federal levels, to work together with common purpose to build on the work already being done to expand rail service in the northeast. I remain concerned, however, about an amendment added to En Bloc No. 1 to establish a North Atlantic Rail compact. While I appreciate the goals of this proposal, I believe that it is duplicative of existing interstate regional rail efforts and short-circuits established cooperative long term rail planning in the region. The North Atlantic Rail compact has as a goal a multi-phase rail development vision for the northeast that includes initial ``early action'' projects, many of which are already under development, and longer term goals of a cross- Long Island Sound tunnel and a new right of away across the rural communities of eastern Connecticut. Notably, many of these longer term goals reflect previously considered plans for rail expansion in the northeast and contradicts already-completed environmental assessments for existing high-speed rail plans and could cause significant negative environmental impacts in our region. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has already done extensive study on many of the concepts listed in the North Atlantic Rail plan which have been ruled out as part of the Northeast Corridor (NEC) FUTURE comprehensive plan for the route from Washington, D.C. to Boston, Massachusetts. The existing NEC FUTURE plan has taken years of work with stakeholders with thousands of public comments and has met crucial environmental milestones to move forward. As noted by Amtrak in a June 28, 2021 letter to the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee opposing the underlying compact proposal in the amendment, ``Amtrak, state DOTs, the NEC Commission and FRA already have the institutional capabilities, the collaborative framework and the requisite rights to advance high-speed and other intercity passenger rail service in New England.'' This compact as proposed in the amendment is also duplicative of existing regional rail cooperation between the Northeast Corridor states. The Northeast Corridor Commission and the NEC Future plan has been developed in partnership with state departments of transportation, metropolitan planning organizations, and local communities. In contrast, the NAR has been included as part of this bill without the support of major stakeholders such as the Connecticut Department of Transportation and without clear plans for oversight, transparency and public engagement that are inherent in existing regional planning efforts and state and federal agencies. This is a critical flaw, as many of the goals at the core of this compact would occur in and disproportionately impact Connecticut in the near and long term. As an alternative, the underlying bill authorizes expansion of interstate rail compacts that would be competitively approved and funded to develop plans to expand high speed rail through interstate cooperation and coordination. That is the approach that should be taken on this effort, rather than a duplicative organization without the full buy in of critical stakeholders. I appreciate that there have been significant changes that Chairman DeFazio of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and his professional staff made to the original NAR proposal, including making the North Atlantic Rail into an interstate compact instead of a federally-chartered special purpose entity, and most critically, requiring ratification from each state in order to go into effect in that state. The original proposal would have created an unaccountable federally-chartered entity with control of funds and eminent domain, which the Committee wisely eliminated from the plan. Unfortunately, these improvements still fail to justify the need for an additional interstate compact on top of existing state and regional entities and requires extensive evaluation and review as this bill moves forward. As the House and Senate come together to finalize the surface transportation reauthorization bill, I will continue to raise these concerns with lead Congressional negotiators. Additionally, I hope that my colleagues consider weighing these impacts against the existing mechanisms which are already in place to create high-speed rail in the Northeast, including NEC FUTURE, and the underling authority the bill provides to expand cooperative interstate rail compacts. Just last week on June 24, all 18 voting members on the Northeast Corridor Commission unanimously approved the CONNECT NEC 2035 plan, a 15-year action plan to rebuild the Northeast Corridor, and which could provide $70 billion in state-of-good repair funds over the next 15 years. The existing framework of the NEC FUTURE already has the organization, funding, environmental safeguards, stakeholder support, and local buy-in to make high-speed rail a reality for our region more quickly and more effectively than the NAR proposal could do. In closing, despite these concerns, which I believe can and will be addressed in the process and based on the overall historic opportunity that the INVEST Act provides, I will vote in the affirmative to keep this process moving forward. June 28, 2021. Hon. Peter DeFazio, Chairman, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Hon. Sam Graves, Ranking Member, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman DeFazio and Ranking Member Graves: I am writing to express Amtrak's concerns about reports that the House may include in the INVEST in America Act an amendment that would create a ``North Atlantic Rail Compact'' (NARC) with an ostensible charge to construct an ill-defined ``North Atlantic Rail Network.'' Amtrak is strongly opposed to the adoption of this amendment and the likely negative consequences of such a decision for the Northeast Corridor and the national rail network. Adopting the amendment would establish--without any hearings, committee consideration, studies or opportunity for those impacted by the proposal to be heard--support for an infeasible proposal, previously rejected because of the harm it would do to the environment, by an advocacy group called North Atlantic Rail (NAR) to build a new, up to 225 mph dedicated high-speed rail line between New York City and Boston. The dedicated high-speed rail line's route (NAR Alignment) would not follow the existing Northeast Corridor (NEC) alignment that parallels Interstate 95. Instead, it would travel beneath the East River in a new tunnel; cross dense urban sections of Queens and Long Island to Ronkonkoma; turn north to Port Jefferson; traverse the Long Island Sound in a 16-mile tunnel to Stratford, Connecticut; and after passing through New Haven and Hartford, turn east across Eastern Connecticut and Rhode Island to Providence, from which it would follow the existing NEC rail corridor to Boston. Most of the line would be built on elevated viaducts. Extensive portions of the high-speed line would need to be constructed along newly acquired and cleared rights-of-way on which there are no rail lines or existing transportation corridors today. Building a high-speed rail line along the NAR Alignment was evaluated in the comprehensive, five-year NEC FUTURE planning and environmental review process--and rejected in the Record of Decision (ROD) issued by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) in 2017 because of the harm it would cause to the environment, its costs and failure to provide needed investment to the existing NEC. Instead, FRA, eight NEC states, the District of Columbia and Amtrak endorsed a Preferred Alternative that would increase track capacity and speeds along the existing NEC alignment, and build dedicated high-speed tracks parallel to it where warranted, to minimize environmental impacts and benefit all Amtrak and commuter passengers on the NEC rather than just those traveling on high-speed trains. The prior rejection of the NAR Alignment is not the only crucial fact undisclosed in the cursory description of the NAR Proposal on NAR's website and in its handouts. Federal safety regulations governing Tier III (above 186 mph) high-speed rail equipment would preclude the operation of conventional speed (125 mph or less) intercity and commuter trains over any portion of the NAR Alignment. This means that passengers traveling from currently served NEC cities such as Stamford or Bridgeport to Boston would have to change trains to travel on high-speed trains over the NAR Alignment, as would passengers from New London, Springfield, and Northern New England. It also means that New York City- to-Boston trains would not be able to operate above 160 mph-- which will soon be the maximum speed between New York City and Boston--over the NAR Alignment until the entire line was completed, which NAR acknowledges would be decades away. While NAR's advocates claim that the NAR HSR Line would cost $84.6 billion, and ``Early Action Projects'' (investments in other New England rail corridors) an additional $23.4 billion, they have not provided any engineering or cost study to substantiate those figures. Building a new 240-mile high-speed rail line, much of it through heavily populated areas where there is no existing rail line or right-of-way, would require purchasing or condemning innumerable homes and businesses, and routing the line through parks and wetlands. Maps prepared for the NEC Future study indicate that the least intrusive route along the NAR Alignment would: Bisect Forest Park in Queens on a viaduct, and travel in a trench through Eisenhower County Park in Nassau; Be built on trenches or viaducts through residential neighborhoods and business districts alongside the Long Island Rail Road's heavily traveled Main, Hempstead and Ronkonkoma Lines (on which service would have to be curtailed during construction); and Follow new alignments, primarily on viaducts, between Ronkonkoma and Port Jefferson, and through numerous communities, parks and wetlands between Hartford and Providence. While the ``Early Action Projects'' listed on NAR's website are all worthwhile projects, they are not new ideas and have no connection to NAR's high-speed line proposal. In fact, most of them would not connect with a high-speed line built along the NAR Alignment. The massive levels of funding it would consume would make it less likely that these projects would be funded. Likewise, a federal funding commitment to the NAR Alignment--which would cost more than the Biden Administration's proposed investment in all passenger rail projects throughout the country--would leave little federal funding available for projects in other regions. The amendment would give NARC, the Compact it creates, responsibility for planning and constructing the New York City-to-Boston high-speed rail line. NARC would be tasked with planning other New England passenger rail improvement projects, a responsibility currently held by FRA, the states, the NEC Commission and Amtrak. NARC would gain these important and complex responsibilities once only two of the seven New England states ratified the compact creating it, even though it would have no resources or employees at that time. It would be governed by an unwieldy 17-member Board on which the federal government and each NEC state would have the same number of votes (two) on issues relating to the construction of a federally-funded high-speed rail line from New York City to Boston as Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Oddly, the amendment would not give NARC the legal authority possessed by Amtrak and states to condemn properties necessary for the construction of the NAR Alignment, or the remedies Amtrak has if freight railroads that own rail lines on which Early Action Projects would be constructed decline to allow those projects. Amtrak recognizes that the advocates for the NAR proposal are well-intentioned. We share their vision of faster service between New York City and Boston, where Amtrak carries more travelers than all airlines combined despite inadequate infrastructure and investment that makes the trip on Acela 45 minutes longer than traveling the same distance from New York City to Washington. The best way to accomplish that is to advance the series of investments contemplated by NEC Future, which will produce near-term benefits--shorter trip times and more trains--for all NEC rail users as each project is completed. Fifty years after the creation of Amtrak, the stars are finally aligning in ways that would provide New England with the improved and expanded high-speed, intercity and commuter service it needs and deserves. For the first time in Amtrak's history, we have an Administration, a Congress and multiple New England state partners who support making the types of investments other countries have made to develop world class passenger rail services. Because of climate change, an unprecedented pandemic, a growing population, and increasing congestion in other modes, the need for investments in passenger rail service to provide mobility, reduce emissions and spur an economic recovery has never been greater. Amtrak and our state partners stand ready to seize that opportunity. Two months ago, I testified before your committee to urge support for investments to reduce trip times between New York City and Boston to less than two hours and thirty minutes. Amtrak and our New England state partners along the NEC are about to begin one of the most important steps in that process: a study to evaluate alternative alignments-- including their environmental and community impacts--for increased capacity and higher speeds between New Haven and Providence to identify a Preferred Alternative, as contemplated by the NEC FUTURE ROD. The NEC Commission is about to release its CONNECT NEC 2035 report, a 15-year roadmap for implementing NEC FUTURE's vision for expanded and faster passenger rail service. In April, we released our ``Amtrak Connects US'' vision that would provide or expand Amtrak service, also over a 15-year time period, on the same intercity corridors off the NEC Main Line that are included in the NAR's list of ``Early Action Projects.'' Amtrak, state DOTs, the NEC Commission and FRA already have the institutional capabilities, the collaborative framework and the requisite rights to advance high-speed and other intercity passenger rail service in New England. Right now would be the worst possible time to throw a monkey wrench into the progress they are making by creating a new bureaucracy with poorly defined and overlapping aims and yet no institutional capability. Continuing to move forward with the NEC FUTURE investment program, which has already received Tier I environmental clearance, and advancing the ``Amtrak Connects US'' vision and state rail plans, offer the best, fastest, most cost-effective and most environmentally responsible path to achieving the improved and expanded high- speed, intercity passenger and commuter rail service that residents of New England expect and deserve. Sincerely, William J. Flynn, Chief Executive Officer, Amtrak.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to observe and mourn the passing of Barry Williams, a local civic champion who dedicated his life to bringing people together and who tirelessly advocated for social justice, the middle class, and the everyday working man and woman. Sadly, on May 2nd of this year--Barry passed away at the age of 71 after a tough 17-year battle with Parkinson's disease. Barry's inspirational life, however, will never dissipate from our community's collective spirit as he treated everyone he encountered with love and humility, setting an immortalized example for us all to aspire to. Born in in 1949 in York, Maine--Barry and his family relocated to Waterford, Connecticut where Barry grew up and acquired his love for the coastline. Barry would spend many hours of his life enjoying the beach, fishing, or sailing, and was invigorated when he caught a fish, which wasn't often. Barry was an avid reader and eventually made a career of his love for books by attaining a degree at the University of Connecticut in Library Science then even returning to work for his alma mater as an acquisitions librarian. While working as a librarian, Barry was also an active member of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT local union and even worked his way up to become President of his local. Being elected to lead his union truly changed Barry and ignited a passion in him that he used to champion workers' rights throughout his life. While president of the union, Barry was admired for his ability to fight for his members but still maintain a loving and friendly personality and always face challenges with a positive attitude. Barry's accomplishments and dedication to his union gained him statewide notoriety and led to him being recruited as a Government Affairs Representative by Connecticut statewide AFT President George Springer. Hitting the ground running-- Barry made his mark and inspired all those around him with his willingness to put others before himself. Not only did Barry talk the talk but he was always out on the front lines with his brothers and sisters rallying for their right to equal opportunities and fairness in the workplace. Achieving milestone after milestone--Barry set himself apart as one of the top labor leaders in Connecticut and this led to his election in 1985 to represent all workers in the state as the Secretary Treasurer of the Connecticut AFL-CIO. Now a true and tried advocate in the world of unions, Barry decided to go independent and start his own lobbying firm to represent unions and non-profits in 1987. With all the statewide connections he had developed in his decades of organizing and union work--Barry quickly gained traction as someone who could bring opposing sides to the table to talk, and he also became known for a little secret weapon in breaking the ice between opposing forces--his famous homemade bread. Barry was truly a master negotiator because he never lamented, and his genuine and happy nature rubbed off on all those around him which made coming to agreements easier for all parties. Barry continued a very successful lobbying career until later in life when he would receive a devastating diagnosis with Parkinson's disease which would lead to his retirement. Barry however as expected, did not let the disease damper his love for life and for bringing happiness to all those around him. Even when he was in the later stages of his life in the Hebrew Center for Health and Rehabilitation in West Hartford--his positive demeanor gained him the nickname, ``the Mayor,'' as he was so loved by his fellow residents and staff. Even up until his last Christmas, Barry grew out his beard to transform himself into Santa to pass out small gifts and candy to fellow residents. Madam Speaker, the loss of Barry leaves a deep void in Connecticut as he was a unifier who brought people of both sides of the aisle together. I ask that my colleagues and this Chamber to join me in expressing our deepest respect for Barry's work and life and send our deepest condolences to the Williams Family. Barry is survived by his wife Susan, children Colby, Jake, Sam, Patel, his sisters Sedona and Kathi, and many other family members and friends who will carry the lasting memory of Barry in their hearts so that his joy, laughter, and compassion will continue to carry on.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to honor the life of the late John David Ward, of Vernon, Connecticut, who passed away surrounded by family on March 17, 2021, at the age of 59. As someone who has shared a hometown with John, practiced law in the same courts, and witnessed his public service firsthand, I can attest to his intelligence, compassion and integrity in all his endeavors. Born to William and Mary Durkin Ward in Holyoke, Massachusetts, John was raised and educated in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts where he graduated high school in 1980. As one who always placed value on education--John went on to earn a bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst before obtaining his J.D. in 1991 from Western New England University's Law School. Equipped with a law degree, John quickly transitioned his Massachusetts-based education to start his career as an assistant clerk at the Rockville Superior Court. After some experience in the courthouse and brief stints with several law firms, John ultimately found a place at Liberty Mutual, where his specialties included labor relations and worker's compensation law. Having gained his full footing in a career that enabled his specialties to excel, John settled here in Vernon and we became neighbors. As I mentioned earlier, I handled cases in the same courts as John, and he was a talented, highly ethical professional who treated clients, fellow lawyers and court officials as consummate gentleman and advocate. As a resident of Vernon, John developed the roots for his greatest passion: community service. This was exemplified early on when he was first elected to the Board of Education and then to Vernon's Town Council. In 2008, John even decided to leave the insurance business to pursue this passion of community service by working in local government as the Town Administrator for Vernon, serving in this role over the course of three mayoral administrations. During his tenure as Town Administrator, John directed renovations of the old mills and secured a new senior center for our neighboring residents. In 2011, John placed himself on the front lines of emergency service in Vernon when Connecticut was hit with the ``Snowtober'' nor'easter. Outside working for the town in a more official capacity, he often volunteered as a ``pit parent'' for the high school marching band. In fact, he coached and help raised Vernon's youngest generation through numerous youth sports including basketball, soccer and football. It is worth noting that John's love for public service stayed with him into his latest years. In 2017, John made the switch to serve as the Town Manager in Granby, Connecticut where he brought the force of his passion for community service. John also went on to fuse together his enthusiasm for learning and public service, earning a master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Connecticut in 2019. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to represent constituents as honorable and impactful as John. John's commitment to our town became a part of his life blood, causing him to touch the hearts of many in our community. While we all mourn the early loss of John, we can at least find solace that his story and memory live on in others, including his wife of more than 25 years, Wendy, and children James, Joe, Elizabeth and David. I find it fitting that we, the People's House, honor John's name and character. I ask that the entire House join me in recognizing the life of John David Ward, never forgetting the importance of serving the community.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 75th anniversary of the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory, which occurred on Friday, June 25, 2021. Located at the Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut, the research center has served Connecticut's second district, the region, and the nation as a hub of excellence, ensuring the readiness and primacy of the United States' undersea deterrence efforts by way of cutting edge health and performance research. Although Friday's date marks the official date of the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory's 75th anniversary, the Research Laboratory's origins date back to as early as 1942 when it was created as an arm of the Naval Submarine Base New London Dispensary. During the earliest stages of America's direct involvement in the Second World War, when our nation's submarine force was put to one of its greatest tests, the center was created to provide answers to problems in communications, vision, personnel, selection, and environmental medicine resulting from wartime demands. The success of the Research Laboratory was evident from its earliest beginnings when in March 1944 it separated from the dispensary and became the independent Medical Research Department of the Submarine Base. Throughout the remainder of World War II, this department became responsible for the organization, development and operation of numerous training programs, including the school for Pharmacist Mates entering the submarine service, the Lookout Training School, the Voice Communication School, and the school for Second Class Divers. By June 1946, with the full conclusion of the War, the Research Laboratory formally gained command status as the Medical Research Laboratory, under the direction of the Navy's Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. From there, its mission grew to the selection of all officers and enlisted for training at the Naval Submarine School, specialized training in submarine medicine for hospital corpsmen and medical officers and research into the medical aspects of submarines and diving. As our maritime national security policy evolved to meet the demands of the Cold War Era and new age of nuclear deterrence, so too did the Research Laboratory's avenues of focus and innovation, including its innovative work in submarine rescue experiments. The Research Laboratory has worked tirelessly to push the field of underwater safety forward in the decades since. For example, it has developed countless reliable products including the International Orange high-visibility color enhancing rescue at sea, the Farnsworth Lantern color vision test, the improved Submarine Escape Immersion Equipment suit, the enhanced Disabled Submarine Survival Guide as well as numerous generations of the Navy's diving and decompression tables which are still in use today. In fact, the Research Laboratory's work has also been instrumental in evolving our nation's submarines to become more healthy, productive and disciplined places of work. This includes its adoption of smoke-free submarine environments, production of studies that supported women serving aboard and studies that have produced a better understanding of effective shifts of duty as a result of changes to an individual's natural circadian sleep cycle while aboard a submarine. The sleep research resulted in a healthy change in submarine work and sleep schedules that has since been embraced by the modem U.S. submarine force. In the wake of tragic ship collisions in 2017 that resulted in devastating loss of lives, the New London based- research is now being applied to our nation's surf ace fleet. Madam Speaker, as the Congressman who has the honor to represent Submarine Base New London, and has visited the lab, I can attest to the talent and passionate commitment of the workforce at that facility, whose unique mission is truly a national treasure. Employing sophisticated, one-of-a-kind equipment, the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory and its dedicated staff of scientists remain experts in many highly specialized areas to this day. They serve the fleet and support our Nation's undersea troops by conducting studies that ensures the readiness and effectiveness of submariners and divers operating aboard submarines, those operating in the undersea battle space, and warfighters fighting from the sea. To that end, on this 75th Anniversary of its founding, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring all those who have served, currently serve, or will serve at the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the esteemed career of Blair Decker, who retires from General Dynamics Electric Boat as Vice President of Supply Chain on July 6, 2021. Mr. Decker retires from a long, dedicated career that spans more than 40 years with Electric Boat. With his service to the company in mind, Blair's leadership has been central in maintaining the quality and rate of production at Electric Boat. In leading the company's supply and by extension output capabilities, Blair's role has directly resulted in tangible benefits for our country, including the creation of thousands of jobs for Connecticut and Rhode Island's local economies and the maintenance of our national security. Madam Speaker, by way of origin, Blair's background is a model example for contributing to one's own community after receiving an in- state education. After graduating from Fairfield University with a bachelor's degree in Economics, Blair went on to receive a Master of Science in Engineering Management from the University of New Haven. Although he went on to gain additional educational experience from Penn State University and Bryant College, Blair quickly transitioned the application of the skills and knowledge he gained toward a career at Electric Boat right here in Connecticut. During his loyal tenure at Electric Boat, Blair continuously sought to increase his role in leadership positions and level of responsibility, taking the mission of this essential company to heart. He further developed the skills from his earlier education through these new roles of responsibility--including his expert oversight of Material Acquisitions and Warehousing, Inventory Management, Material Services, Information, Document and Configuration Management as well as Supplier and Shipyard Quality Assurance. As Vice President of Supply Chain, Blair has been responsible for cultivating the vision for organizing General Dynamic's entire Material and Acquisition Value Stream--an undoubtedly heavy influx order for the ever-increasing national security demands placed upon Electric Boat. At this crowning position, Blair has been specifically responsible for the execution of design and engineering, construction, material conveyance, supply chain development, strategic sourcing, supplier development and product life cycle support, Overall, Blair has been instrumental in the progression of General Dynamic Electric Boat's acquisitions abilities, transforming the company's reputation as a national leader in shipbuilding. It is worth noting that Mr. Decker also sought to contribute toward the local community outside of his impressive leadership record at Electric Boat. For example, Blair previously donated his time as an active member of the Board of Directors and Trustee for the Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Directors of the DNA-EPI Science Center and the Board of Trustees for the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts of the University of New Haven. Considering the nature of his demanding position at Electric Boat, Blair also notably served as chair of the General Dynamics Supply Chain Management Council reporting directly to the Corporation's Chief Executive Officer. Madam Speaker, Blair's competence as an advocate for Electric Boat's mission has been incomparable. With his departure, our region and Electric Boat can find comfort in the sound supply chain infrastructure that he directly brought about. This bright future for Electric Boat will continue to mean incredible things for the second district's local economy and even more for the stability of our national security for generations to come. To that end, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in congratulating Blair Decker on his well-earned retirement, where he now goes on to spend more time with his family: his daughters Alyssa and Robyn, and his sister Beth.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of a distinguished public servant in my district, Chief Robert Tardif. On June 12, 2021, Chief Tardif celebrates an incredible milestone of 50 years in service to the Baltic Fire Engine Company, No. 1. While it is an honor to reflect upon and commemorate graceful and dedicated tenure of Chief Tardif, it should be emphasized that his service as an essential community leader will only continue from here. Born in the Taftville section of Norwich in 1956, Robert was inspired at an early age to public safety from his Father who also served as a firefighter--in both Norwich and Sprague, Connecticut--for an entire 66 years. An instrumental figure in his life, Robert's father served until his passing. Five years after his family moved to Sprague, Robert began his career of public service at the age of 15 as a Firefighter Cadet for the Baltic Fire Engine Company No. 1. After three years as a cadet, he was accepted by a unanimous vote to become a full-time firefighter. The rest is history. Robert climbed the ranks of the department as he braved years of danger on the front lines fighting fires and assisting in an array of other public safety missions including the 1994 ice flood, which resulted in significant damage to the downtown area of Sprague. Chief Tardif was crucial in the ensuing rescue missions in that disaster and helped get rescue boats to residents in danger of drowning from the incredible floods. As a firefighter, it has always been ingrained in Chief Tardif to put others before himself. As a member of the local and essential workforce community, however, there was no one in better standing to become Chief of the fire department than him when he took the reins in 1999. Chief Tardif has not only fought for his department against fire and calamity but has worked to ensure that his team and department are best equipped to serve the public to the best of their ability. I know this to be true as he has personally worked with my office on numerous occasions to attain FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grants to ensure his units are equipped and prepared for safety with the most up-to-date protective and emergency gear. When not serving Sprague, Robert serves the common good through his work as a union carpenter with United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Local 1302. Through his work as a union carpenter, Robert has worked at Electric Boat, a submarine manufacturer and economic powerhouse in our region, for more than 46 years, serving in numerous leadership roles for his union including President and Vice-President. Robert currently leads Local 1302 under the position of Business Agent/Chief Steward--a position he has held since 2003. To this day, Chief Tardif works to ensure that carpenters at Electric Boat are well equipped and versed in the most modern safety procedures and go home just as they came in. He has made a significant difference during his time at Electric Boat, working hand in hand with the company to prioritize safety on the job site. We are truly fortunate to have a leader in public safety in our midst who serves the public good in so many different forms. Chief Tardif is not only my colleague in public service but a friend, and one who has even come to my own personal aid when I was left with a flat tire on the road one hot summer day with no wrench. He never hesitates to help those in need. Madam Speaker, it is a great honor to ask the chamber to join me in celebrating Chief Tardif's 50 years of service to the town of Sprague. Chief Tardif's inspirational and as piling career are perfectly encompassed in his own mantra on why he chose a life of public service which is that, ``My Father had done it forever--and he inspired me to work to make a difference--no matter big or small--as long as it was helping someone.'' To that end, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in congratulating Chief Tardif for his 50 years of service with the fire department and Electric boat and wishing him thanks for the many more milestones to come in a truly decorated career. I wish him and his son Robert Tardif II continued success and happiness.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the esteemed career and public service of John V. Leonard, Jr, who retires from General Dynamics Electric Boat as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer on July 6, 2021. While John retires from a career in the private sector, his outstanding leadership and dedication as a senior employee at Electric Boat holds merits for maintaining the public interest as he has helped oversee an economic boon at Electric Boat, creating thousands of jobs for the hard working residents of eastern Connecticut while simultaneously advancing our national security priorities. Having earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from the nearby University of Rhode Island, John was always meant to apply his expertise toward the betterment of our local community. Before dedicating his career to Electric Boat, however, John first went on to serve in the Marine Corps, achieving the rank of Captain, then going on to attend Columbia University where he earned an MBA in numerous areas of concentration. From there, John joined Electric Boat in 1980--first as a Financial Analyst--where he ultimately carried out the company's mission for more than 40 years. John's track at Electric Boat has been defined by loyalty and an ever-increasing degree of responsibility. Receiving one of his first major promotions in 1995 to Vice President of Finance, John seized upon the opportunity to prove his leadership capabilities. In 1998, when Electric Boat was experiencing an era of downsizing and uncertain financial sustainability, John envisioned a path where others had not and earned the company the Block I contract with the Navy fortwo Virginia-Class attack submarines. His mastery of unconventional problem solving and deep understanding of the engineering thought processes led John and Electric Boat to lay the groundwork that has allowed the company to meet today's high demands from the Navy. John's success and contractually-focused perspective most recently earned him the appointment of Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in 2019, which has come after his promotion to the Chief Financial Office in 2003. As Senior Vice President, John has been responsible for a wide range of functions at Electric Boat, including finances, contracts, tax, strategic planning, IT management, oversight of the facility master plan, Applied Physical Sciences and the Washington Engineering Office. Madam Speaker, John's presence and expertise at Electric Boat will be sorely missed. Our region and Electric Boat, however, can at least find solace in what his leadership has helped create: a healthy backlog of submarine construction and the highly sought after Columbia Build I contract, meaning that Electric Boat will be responsible for building out the nation's first ever, next generation sea-based strategic deterrent. This bright future for Electric Boat means great things for the second district's local economy and even more for the security of our national defense. We owe a lot of thanks to John Leonard's leadership abilities. To that end, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in congratulating John on his well-earned retirement, where he now goes on to spend more time with his wife Julia and adult sons Adam, Jack, Mason and Max.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the esteemed career in public service of Colonel Gerald ``Jerry'' Lukowski, Junior. Colonel Lukowski retires on June 5, 2021, from the apex of his service as Chief of Staff to the Joint Staff for the Connecticut Army National Guard. Having dedicated a 36-year long career toward securing the common defense through a distinguished vocation in the military, Jerry will move on and continue to benefit the State of Connecticut with his skill and expertise within the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Jerry's sense of duty catalyzed his service to the public through a military-oriented career. This was exemplified from the earliest days of his education, when he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through the University of Connecticut's ROTC program in 1989, before graduating from the University of New Haven in 1991. Armed with a Bachelors in Civil Engineering, Second Lieutenant Lukowski set his sights on a path to leadership within the State's civil defense unit, the Connecticut Army National Guard. He put himself forward on this path, engaging with various career-related roles whilst simultaneously advancing a civilian and military education, obtaining his Master's in Environmental Engineering from his alma mater in 1997, completing countless military instruction courses and acquiring numerous licenses within the State's engineering apparatus as recent as 2019. Colonel Lukowski applied his affinity for knowledge throughout the ranks of his distinguished profession. His education prepared him for 17 years of service at several stations of duty with the Combat Engineers and most prominently catalyzed his ability to excel in the latter half of his career as the Construction and Facility Management Officer (CFMO) for 13 years, and then Chief of Staff to the Joint Staff since 2016. As Chief of Staff, Colonel Lukowski greatly enhanced the operations of the Connecticut Army National Guard, pushing the troops to work with their respective units on their pre-deployment and redeployment requirements. During his tenure as CFMO, Colonel Lukowski's leadership and expertise in facilities management, fiscal policy and federal contracting enabled the state to obtain nearly $975 million in Military Construction Project and Sustainment Restoration and Modernization funding, resulting in the planning and implementation of 17 total projects. His tenacity as an advocate for boosting Connecticut's emergency response infrastructure has well positioned our state's readiness capabilities for generations to come and has truly kept the safety of our public at heart. Madam Speaker, Colonel Lukowski has spent his life developing Connecticut's emergency response infrastructure. His example of selfless service now extends throughout his family--his wife Mary Beth and children John, Sarah, Megan and Emily--the last of whom has gone on to attend the US Air Force Academy after receiving a nomination from my office. While the Connecticut Army National Guard is losing an incredibly influential proponent, we can at least find comfort knowing that he will continue to serve the State and the maintenance of its essential infrastructure in the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Having risen through the ranks from Second Lieutenant in 1989, all the way to Colonel in just 18 years, Colonel Lukowski's impressive line of service to Connecticut has been displayed by his rapid rate of promotion and further by his list of numerous accolades. To that end, I ask my colleagues in the House join me in honoring and thanking Colonel Jerry Lukowski for his extensive history of service and wishing him and his family all the best in this new chapter of their lives.