Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Chair, had I been present, I would have voted Aye on Roll Call No. 286.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and service of Sergeant Kennedy Sanders from Waycross, Georgia. Sergeant Sanders was one of three soldiers who tragically died during a drone strike in Jordan at only 24 years old. This Sunday, June 30, would have been her 25th birthday. Her obituary reads: ``Her commitment to duty and love for her country were evident in every action, making her a true jewel among us. Verse 25 of Proverbs 31 describes the virtuous woman's attire as `strength and honor,' and Sanders wore these virtues with grace and resilience.'' Her grandfather, who is also a veteran, spoke about the importance of Memorial Day in honoring those who sacrificed their lives for our country. He spoke so highly of her character as a remarkable and fearless leader. Sometimes we take our freedom for granted, but in these solemn moments, we must remember to be eternally thankful for those who dedicate their lives to serving our Nation. Kennedy Sanders was and still is a leader and a hero. She gave the ultimate sacrifice for her country, and we will never forget that.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate one of Georgia's best on his retirement from government service. On June 27, Mr. John Eunice will retire after 43 years of service to the Department of the Air Force. Mr. Eunice has served on both Active Duty and in the career civil service. Prior to taking his current position in 2008, John served in Active Duty for 27 years in the U.S. Air Force, achieving the rank of colonel. While on Active Duty, he served two command tours, serving as commander of the 36th and the 347th Civil Engineer Squadrons. He deployed three times over the course of his Active-Duty career, including twice into combat zones. He received numerous awards and commendations over the course of his career, including the prestigious Newman Medal, which is awarded each year to the Air Force officer with the most significant contribution to military engineering in the entire U.S. Air Force. John has dedicated his entire life to serving the United States, and today, I am proud to thank him for his service. I wish him well on a much-deserved retirement.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Valdosta State men's tennis team on their recent national championship. The Blazers tennis team had an impressive season. They finished the year with an overall record of 26-3. In conference play, the team finished 8-1 and were named the Gulf South Conference champions. At the Division II National Championships Festival in Orlando, Florida, Valdosta State battled for the chance to earn their third national title in school history. After beating Flagler College 4-3 in the final match, the Blazers earned the title of national champions as well as the number one team ranked in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association. Boruch Skierkier, Rodrigo Carvalho, Takeshi Taco, and Luca Mack also earned Intercollegiate Tennis Association Division II All-American honors. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Head Coach John Hansen and the entire men's tennis team on an outstanding season and a national championship.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of Caroline Dowling, who tragically passed away at just the age of 11. Caroline passed away on May 18 after sustaining multiple injuries in an accident. Caroline is from Pierce County, Georgia, where she lived her whole life and attended Patterson Elementary School. In school, she was an A/ B honor roll student and received numerous awards. She was awarded the highest achievement in reading, the highest average in social studies, the PBIS award, the PE award, and the young authors winner in 2022. Caroline also participated in sports, including basketball and softball, where she made the Pierce County 12U all-star softball team. Caroline also had a love for animals. She enjoyed riding her horse, Honey, and playing with her dog, Rudy, and her cat, Milo. She was a member of First Baptist Church and attended fourth and fifth grade Sunday School classes. Caroline Dowling was a loving and caring young lady who made others feel valued, and I send my deepest condolences to the whole Dowling family.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Robert Lee Herrin, a valiant 22-year-old soldier who died tragically eight decades ago amidst the chaos of the historic Normandy landings, where he made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. With the recent 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings, we remember the brave sacrifices of the great Americans who fought and died to rid the world of tyranny so that we may remain free. Private Roberts' sacrifice was recognized with the Purple Heart award, a testament to his unwavering bravery and dedication to serving his country. Robert is a true son of south Georgia, born and raised in Brantley County, where his family still resides today. With the anniversary of D-day passing, it is important to remember that it is because of men like Robert Lee Herrin that we enjoy the freedoms that we have today. We are eternally grateful for his sacrifice and all others who sacrificed their lives for our country.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of Logan Noel Sharpe who tragically passed away May 19 in a car accident. Logan was born on December 26, 2016, in Waycross, Georgia, to Shaunte Sharpe Williams of Patterson, Georgia, and Kevin Scott, Sr., of Waycross, Georgia. He attended Patterson Elementary School as well as Evergreen Church in Bristol, Georgia. Logan loved Spider-Man. He loved playing with his friends. He loved riding his bike and playing Roblox. More than anything else, though, he loved spending time with his family. He will be missed by his parents, his grandparents, his great- grandmother, and even his great-great-grandmother. On behalf of the entire First District of Georgia, I send my condolences to Logan's friends and family for this tragic loss of life.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of Shelton Lawrence ``Cricket'' Mobley, who passed away on May 30 at the age 65. Born and raised in Waycross, Georgia, Cricket Mobley distinguished himself as a four-sport letterman at Ware County High School, where he graduated from in 1977. Cricket devoted a majority of his time to activities such as shrimping, fishing, hunting, and showcasing his passion for the outdoors. In addition to being an avid outdoorsman, he was a successful businessman, founding his own company twice and serving as a business proprietor for nearly 40 years. He had a passion for sports, especially baseball, which he stayed involved in until his passing. Cricket coached baseball to many young men, many of whom went on to play in college and professionally. Cricket was eventually inducted into the Ware County Sports Hall of Fame in 2022. Cricket will be missed, but his positive impact on those he coached will be felt for generations to come.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Tricia Armstrong, who passed away on May 26 at the age of 75 years old. Tricia was a photographer for over 40 years, capturing special moments for people with her smile and boundless energy. She was a member of the Professional Photographers Association of Georgia and would travel the country taking photos and teaching seminars on camera methods. Tricia was also very involved in bettering her community. She served as president of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, and she was a trailblazer in the Jesup Kiwanis Club and a founding member of the board of directors for Wayne National Bank, all while serving her church. Beloved by her community, Tricia will always be cherished the most by her family, whom she loved dearly. Madam Speaker, I offer my heartfelt condolences to her family. Her positive influence will be felt for generations to come.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2024. Founded in 1965, this organization celebrates the top athletes of the region, and I am proud to recognize them today. The Hall of Fame Class of 2024 consists of Donald Chumley, Kris Edge, Frank Kearse, and Jason Shiell. Each of these honorees have led accomplished athletic careers. Donald Chumley began his football career at Groves High School. From there, he played for the University of Georgia, was drafted by the 49ers, and played in the CFL for the Calgary Stampeders. Kris Edge played baseball at Savannah Christian Preparatory School before playing at the University of Georgia. Frank Kearse began playing football at Savannah High School before playing at Alabama A&M and then in the NFL for 5 years. Jason Shiell played baseball at Windsor Forest High School and spent his professional career with the Braves, the Padres, and the Red Sox. The Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame also honors current coaches, athletes, and teams for their accomplishments, and I am proud to recognize them, as well. Danny Britt, the head football coach at Benedictine Military School, and Julie Jones, the head volleyball coach at Savannah Christian Preparatory School, were each awarded a coaching citation for their outstanding leadership and guidance for student athletes. The Lawton M. Calhoun Award, which recognizes the top student athlete in Chatham County, was given to Luke Kromenhoek, the quarterback for the Benedictine Military School's football team. Luke will be continuing his football career at Florida State University. Finally, the M.A. Spellman Award, which recognizes the team or individual making an unconventional impact in sports, was awarded to the Forest City Gun Club Juniors. I congratulate each of these award winners and inductees of the Class of 2024 Greater Savannah Athletic Hall of Fame. Honoring the 2024 NCAA Doubles National Champions

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Ms. Aysegul Mert and Ms. Dasha Vidmanova as they claim the title of your 2024 NCAA Doubles National Champions. This Georgia Bulldog duo are crowned NCAA Doubles Champions for the first time in Georgia women's tennis history. Vidmanova and Mert, up against Pepperdine University's top-seeded team, Janice Tjen and Savannah Broadus, had to push themselves to the limit to secure the victory. After Georgia won the opening set in a tiebreaker, the Waves duo took the second set, forcing a deciding 10-point tiebreaker instead of a third set. The NCAA championship win on Saturday was a great end to the Bulldogs' season, along with their run through SEC play and the NCAAs. The Bulldogs shared the SEC regular season title with Texas A&M and finished their season ranked number three in the country. I, again, congratulate Ms. Aysegul Mert and Ms. Dasha Vidmanova for their extraordinary achievements, and we wish them continued success in their future endeavors on the tennis court. Honoring Sergeant Travis Dailey

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of the late Sergeant Travis Dailey. Sergeant Dailey was a loving father and husband who devoted his life to protecting his community. In 1985, Sergeant Dailey began his career with the Statesboro Police Department. Starting off as a deputy, he served his community for many years before moving into the civil division. Upon his return to law enforcement, he worked with the Effingham County Police Department as a firearms instructor, where he worked to train, motivate, and mentor young deputies. Sergeant Dailey was an accomplished and respected law enforcement officer. His life serves as a model of public service and is emblematic of the sacrifice police officers across the Nation make each and every day. I send my condolences to his family, Sheriff McDuffie, and the entire Effingham County Sheriff's Department.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lucille Patton Holloway for her dedicated service to the United States through her civilian work contributions during World War II. Mrs. Holloway is a part of a special group of women who answered the call to duty when the Nation needed civilians to aid the war effort. Lucille worked at the Douglas Aircraft Company in Elsinore, California, assembling wings for the B-17. She also worked at the Louisiana Army Ammunition Plant in Minden, Louisiana, manufacturing various types of weaponry. She was working at this plant on the day the Japanese surrendered on September 2, 1945. Her actions, hard work, and we-can-do-it attitude contributed directly to our victory in World War II and represent the highest ideals of service of the United States of America. Madam Speaker, I extend to her my personal thanks and our sincere appreciation of a grateful Nation for her service to our great Nation. My best wishes to her and may God bless her and her family.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the achievement of the girls soccer team at Frederica Academy with their back-to-back State title wins. The team defended their State title with a final score of 1-0 against the Westminster Schools of Augusta. The goal was scored by freshman Sophia Gregg who outmaneuvered her defenders in the first half of the game. Gregg's goal was made possible by an assist from Mary Ford Fitzjurls. Frederica's strong defense was also able to hold off every shot attempt made at their goal. This allowed them to go undefeated in the Georgia Independent Athletic Association AAA District 2 Region, making them the number one ranked team in the region. Congratulations to the young women of the Frederica Academy soccer team. I know I speak for the whole First District when I say we are very proud of you.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mackenzie Connell for being recognized as one of the Atlanta Journal- Constitution's top 15 high school girl golfers in the State of Georgia. Mackenzie joins a very elite class of young women golfers. This selection process is highly competitive and includes every young woman in the Georgia High School Association. Since joining the Pierce County High School girls' golf team, Mackenzie has won many prestigious honors. A few of these include being named the 2023 GHSA AA Player of the Year, the 2024 GHSA AA Area 1 Low Medalist, and a two-time 912 Sports Magazine Player of the Year. In both 2022 and 2023, the Pierce County girls' golf team won back- to-back State championships. Mackenzie was an integral player on both teams. During the 2023 State Championship Golf Tournament, she was named the GHSA State Low Medalist where she shot a tournament low of 73. Outside of golf, Mackenzie is recognized as one of the top performing students in her class. She boasts a stellar GPA and is involved in a whole host of extracurricular activities. Congratulations to Mackenzie. I look forward to seeing all that she will accomplish in the future as she continues to make our district proud.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor the life of Robert ``Bob'' Merriman, who passed away on May 11 at the age of 69. Bob began his law enforcement career in Athens, Georgia, in 1975 and then moved to the Chatham County Police Department in 1977, where he became a detective. He moved to the Chatham-Savannah Police force in 2004 and retired as captain in 2007. Bob came out of retirement in 2013 to serve as the chief of police in Thunderbolt and retired 5 years later. Officer Merriman's skills as a detective led him to solve some of the toughest cases in his department. He was truly one of our finest. He was known for treating his victims and their families with great dignity and respect. Bob will continue to serve as a hero to many and will always be remembered for his compassion, selflessness, and bravery.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the achievements of New Hampstead High's Gianna Brown, who recently was named the winner of the 32nd annual Hollis Stacy Award. The Hollis Stacy Award is presented annually to the area's most versatile female athlete in Savannah, Georgia. Gianna, who is MVP on all four of her high school sports teams, embodies this award. In addition to being an All-Greater Savannah first team selection in flag football and basketball, she was also an All-Region first team pick as middle blocker in volleyball and as a goalkeeper in soccer. Gianna is truly an all-star. Not only is she great at flag football, but she is also a star on the basketball court. In just her second year playing basketball, she was a quick study as she averaged 20.6 points per game and 11 rebounds per game. Gianna's record speaks for itself. She is a multisport star, and the First District could not be prouder of her. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Gianna. I know we will continue to see her success on the field for years to come.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Fentanyl Awareness Day, which was celebrated last week on May 7. In 2023, a record number of our sons' and daughters' lives were taken by opioid overdoses, the majority of which were caused by illicit fentanyl poisoning. Fentanyl poisoning is the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45 and is predominantly sourced from our southwest border. This is unacceptable. We must close that southern border, but there are additional steps we can take to ensure everyone, especially our youth, is protected. I have been a long-time advocate for naloxone, an overdose reversal drug, to be available over the counter. I am so glad the FDA finally took this step so that more people can access this lifesaving medication. As a pharmacist, I understand just how important access to naloxone is. I carry it around with me in my backpack everywhere I go. I never had to use it, and I hope I don't have to use it, but it is there just in case of an emergency. I have introduced legislation, the Saving Lives in Schools Act, which would require schools to carry naloxone. Wherever you see a defibrillator, you should see naloxone. It is safe, effective, and easy to use, and it could save a life. This National Fentanyl Awareness Day, we must band together and commit to ending the fentanyl poisoning epidemic for good.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a former United States House of Representatives Member from the great State of Georgia, Lindsay Thomas, for receiving the 2023 Rock Howard Conservation Achievement Award. The Rock Howard Conservation Achievement Award is given to those who are recognized as an environmental and natural resources leader, embodying the passion and success of Rock Howard, Georgia's first director of the Environmental Protection Division. It is only natural that Representative Thomas received this award. He was a champion of the outdoors and conservation during his 10 years in Congress. He cofounded the Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus in 1989 to bring together Members of the House and Senate in a bipartisan effort to support America's hunting and fishing communities and Federal policy decisions. This bipartisan caucus has helped influence policy benefiting hunters and anglers, and it has inspired the creation of parallel caucuses in 50 States and 36 Governors' offices. Again, I thank my good friend, Representative Thomas, for being a tireless supporter of sportsmen and our environment. I congratulate him on winning this prestigious award.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the achievements of Jaylin Simpson, who was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts. Jaylin was drafted in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL draft after 5 years of playing at the University of Auburn. Before attending Auburn, Jaylin graduated high school from Frederica Academy in the First District of Georgia. In his senior year at Frederica, Jaylin racked up 1,433 passing yards, 441 rushing yards, 22 touchdowns, and 1 interception as Frederica's quarterback. He also made 48 tackles and 4 interceptions while playing corner in a season that led to a GISA State Championship for Frederica. At Auburn, Jaylin played in 47 games, tallying 116 total tackles, 7 interceptions, 14 pass breakups, and 4 tackles for a loss during his career. The Indianapolis Colts have no doubt just received an outstanding football player. I congratulate Jaylin. I know I speak for the whole First District when I say we are very proud of him. FLETC Deputy Director Kai Munshi

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the career of Kai Munshi, who is retiring from his position as deputy director of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers. Deputy Director Munshi's law enforcement career began in August 2002 as a U.S. Secret Service special agent. He helped conduct investigations related to issues such as counterfeit currency, bank fraud, and other financial crimes. Deputy Director Munshi also served in the Special Operations Division Counter Assault Team, where he led countless protective missions for the President of the United States and other dignitaries domestically and abroad. During his time as deputy director, he oversaw training for 125 Federal partner organizations. He directed operations across all four of FLETC's training delivery points, leading FLETC's administrative, security, financial, mission support, and resource management programs. I thank Deputy Director Munshi for his years of dedicated service to this great country. I hope he enjoys his well-earned retirement. Celebrating Jamari McIvory Mr. CARTER of GEORGIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the achievements of Savannah Christian's Jamari McIvory, who recently received the 71st annual Dearing Award. The Ashley Dearing Award, given annually to the area's most versatile male athlete for more than seven decades, was recently presented at Savannah Christian to Jamari, who consistently brings home hardware for his alma mater. He is the 10th Savannah Christian Raider to win the award in 71 years, and he is currently signed to play football at Northern Illinois. Jamari is truly an all-star. Not only is he great at football, but he is a star on the basketball court. He is one of the greatest track athletes Georgians have seen in ages. He is the reigning State champion for both 200 and 400 meters for track. Jamari's record speaks for itself. He is a multisport star, and the First District could not be more proud of him. I congratulate Jamari. I know we will continue to see his success on the field for years to come. Recognizing Representative Lindsay Thomas

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the bipartisan Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act. As a father to three sons and a grandfather to seven beautiful grandbabies, there is nothing more important to me than improving health outcomes for mothers and children. Tragically, more than 21,000 babies are stillborn every year, upending the lives of mothers and families across the United States. No family should have to experience the heartbreak of a stillbirth. That is why I am proud to support the Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act so that women and children have the best health outcomes our Nation can provide. Increasing access to maternal care, especially for rural and underserved communities, is critical toward preventing stillbirths so more babies experience a healthy birth and make it home with their families. This critical legislation would strengthen and enhance the Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant, which will help ensure expecting moms can receive quality prenatal care. We value women, we value life, and this bipartisan bill prioritizes both. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Hinson for working on this important issue, and I urge my colleague to support this legislation.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 6960, the Emergency Medical Services for Children Reauthorization Act of 2024. As a healthcare professional serving in Congress, my goal is to increase the accessibility, affordability, and quality of healthcare for all patients, including children. That is why I am proud to sponsor the bipartisan Emergency Medical Services for Children Reauthorization Act, which will improve emergency care for children. This bill reauthorizes the Emergency Medical Services for Children program, which focuses on addressing the unique needs of children in emergency medical systems with the ultimate goal of reducing the prevalence of morbidity and mortality in children. For nearly four decades, the Emergency Medical Services for Children program has been the only Federal grant program specifically focused on addressing the needs of children in emergency medical systems. As we know today, children have special healthcare needs. Whether children require emergency care following a car crash or when falling ill in the middle of the night with nowhere else to turn, our emergency medical system needs to have staff trained to treat children. A major part of that is providing the resources to equip healthcare professionals with the right size medical tools. As a pharmacist, I understand how critical it is that children receive care that is specialized to their unique needs. That is why I am proud to be leading the reauthorization of the Emergency Medical Services for Children program, which has proven to be an effective approach for saving America's children. The authorization of the Emergency Medical Services for Children program is set to lapse on September 30 if Congress does not reauthorize it. That is why we are strongly urging Congress to reauthorize this program through 2029 without any disruption to it. I thank Representatives Castor, Joyce, and Schrier for working with me on this important issue, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Magistrate Judge Jennifer Lewis. Jennifer has recently been awarded the 2024 Magistrate of the Year award from the Georgia Council of Magistrate Judges. The magistrate court functions as Georgia's small claims court, which allows residents to proceed with a case with or without an attorney. Winning this award is a testament to Jennifer's character and it shows how seriously she takes her judicial service. Like myself, Judge Lewis was a Georgia Bulldog. After school at Georgia, she later went to Florida Coastal School of Law. Following her education, Judge Lewis started working at the Camden County Magistrate Court in 1998. In 2008, she was elected as chief magistrate and took office the following year. I look forward to witnessing Judge Lewis' future accomplishments and thank her for her service.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Donald Leebern, Jr. Don, a native of Columbus, Georgia, graduated from Columbus High School and went on to attend the University of Georgia. Don played football for the Bulldogs, winning an SEC championship in 1959 and the Orange Bowl in 1960. After his impressive career at Georgia, Don joined the family business, Georgia Crown Distributing Company. Don worked his way up to become the president of Georgia Crown where the company saw continued success under his leadership. In 1992, he became chairman of the board of the company. Don also served five consecutive terms on the University System Board of Regents after he was appointed by former Georgia Governor Zell Miller. This included time as regents chairman from 1994 to 1995. Outside of his professional career, Don was known as a generous and kind man. He was a founding member of the University System of Georgia Foundation, as well as a member of numerous professional, civic, and social organizations. Don was larger than life. He positively impacted everyone he met, and he will be sorely missed by all.