Member of Congress
Ben Cline
- Role
- Current Representative
- State
- VA
- Party
- Republican
Speeches
RECOGNIZING THE HEROIC ACTIONS OF CARTER NICELY2024-12-11
Mr. CLINE
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the courageous actions of 16-year-old Carter Nicely from Alleghany County who heroically saved the lives of his family as their home was engulfed in flames earlier this year. As dawn broke, Carter was awakened by an extraordinary heat. Attempting to turn on his bedside lamp, he quickly realized the electricity was out. Without hesitation, he sprang into action, rushing to warn his parents, Anthony and Kristin Nicely, and his younger brother, Brody, of the imminent danger. Thanks to Carter's swift actions, his family was able to evacuate their home safely, though they tragically lost everything in the fire. In recognition of his bravery, the Sharon Fire and Rescue team awarded Carter a lifesaving award, a commendation they have only bestowed once before. Mr. Speaker, I, once again, congratulate Carter Nicely on his quick thinking and decisive action which undoubtedly saved lives. Celebrating Strasburg Presbyterian Church's 200th Anniversary
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Strasburg Presbyterian Church as it proudly celebrates 200 years of service. The church was founded in 1824 by a small, dedicated group of Christians under the leadership of Reverend Dr. William Henry Foote, a Princeton graduate who came to the Shenandoah Valley to provide English language services for residents primarily speaking German. Notably, Strasburg Presbyterian is the only church in town to withstand the Civil War, even serving as a hospital for wounded Confederate and Union soldiers after the pivotal battles of Cedar Creek and Fisher's Hill. Today, under the guidance of Reverend David Howard, the church goes beyond traditional worship and Sunday school. It actively participates in community initiatives such as blood drives, Bible studies, pancake breakfasts, and spaghetti dinners. With 90 active members, many of whom are multigenerational families, Reverend Howard envisions a bright future for the church, embodying the spirit of community service with the belief that ``it is about putting your community before yourself.'' Mr. Speaker, I thank the Strasburg Presbyterian Church for its unwavering commitment to service and hope the church continues to bless our community for another 200 years. Celebrating the Roanoke Star's 75th Anniversary
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a beacon of hope and community pride in my district: the Roanoke Star. It was on the eve of Thanksgiving in 1949 at exactly 8:22 p.m. when a star was illuminated for the first time atop the most prominent mountain in the heart of the city of Roanoke, Virginia. What began as a Christmas decoration, this man-made metal star has now become an enduring symbol of our community spirit for 75 glorious years. Built by Roy Kinsey of the Kinsey Sign Company for $28,000, this impressive structure towers 88.5 feet tall, proudly visible from as far away as 60 miles. With 2,000 feet of neon tubing ready to shine in red, white, and blue, the Roanoke Star is not just any star; it is the largest freestanding illuminated star in the world. Visitors come from countless places to witness this treasured landmark, take in the breathtaking view of the Roanoke Valley, explore scenic trails, or enjoy the nearby Mill Mountain Zoo. The Roanoke Star is recognized on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register, reminding us of our heritage and commitment to preserving our history. As we mark this 75th anniversary, let us celebrate the Roanoke Star's significance in Virginia's Sixth District, and may it continue to shine as a welcoming beacon for all who visit.
PERMISSION FOR MEMBER TO BE CONSIDERED AS FIRST SPONSOR OF H.R. 45452024-12-10
Mr. CLINE
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that I may hereafter be considered to be the first sponsor of H.R. 4545, a bill originally introduced by Representative Gallagher of Wisconsin, for the purpose of adding cosponsors and requesting reprintings pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII.
CONGRATULATING KIWANIS CLUB OF WAYNESBORO ON ITS CENTENNIAL2024-12-04
Mr. CLINE
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Kiwanis Club of Waynesboro as they celebrate their centennial. For 100 years, the Waynesboro Kiwanians have shown a deep commitment to children in our community. In the 1930s, they sponsored a clinic for children in need. During the 1950s, they acquired a campsite that hosted many summer activities for local youth, including scouting and 4-H clubs. Today, with 53 members, the Kiwanis Club actively promotes childhood literacy by providing books to public schools, hosting eight Little Free Libraries, and building a library at the Boys & Girls Clubs. They also host an annual Halloween event that brings together over 3,000 families for a safe celebration. In addition, the Kiwanis Club of Waynesboro invests approximately $45,000 each year into our community through grants, scholarships, and donations to nonprofits. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Kiwanis Club of Waynesboro on this remarkable 100-year milestone. Their dedication truly makes our community a better place. Congratulating Signal Knob Middle School FFA
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Signal Knob Middle School Future Farmers of America chapter for winning the national Middle School Model of Excellence award at the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. The national Middle School Model of Excellence award is given to a chapter that displays the ability to grow leaders, build communities, and strengthen agriculture. The chapter is led by a Signal Knob teacher and FFA adviser Dakota Stroud, who said he is ``ecstatic to have our chapter recognized for [the members'] hard work through the school year in creating and executing events and activities that benefit our students, school, and community.'' Students Piper Dellinger and Emily Hamrick, who are now freshmen at Strasburg High School, represented Signal Knob's FFA chapter and led the presentation. They spoke on the many activities and events that the Signal Knob FFA chapter participated in during the 2023-2024 school year. I again congratulate the Signal Knob Middle School FFA chapter for excelling in the areas of agriculture and leadership and making the Shenandoah Valley proud. I wish the entire chapter the best of luck in future endeavors. Celebrating 100th Anniversary of Rotary Club of Waynesboro
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the Rotary Club of Waynesboro as they approach their centennial. Chartered in December 1924, the Waynesboro Rotary Club has dedicated nearly 100 years to service. They have consistently met over lunch on Tuesdays and have fostered a commitment to the community through the Four-Way Test, ensuring their initiatives are fair, beneficial, and rooted in truth. The club has evolved since the first project of beautifying the grounds of the local library. They have helped individuals without homes, supported environmental efforts, and provided school supplies, often partnering with local organizations to maximize their impact. To mark its 100th anniversary, the Rotary Club has teamed up with the Central Shenandoah Valley Office on Youth and Waynesboro Parks and Recreation to create a traffic playground for children to practice bike riding and learn about traffic safety. Many of these children may also have the opportunity to receive scholarships from the club, which have totaled over $350,000. I have no doubt the Rotary Club of Waynesboro will continue their vital service. Mr. Speaker, I commend them for their past century and wish them continued success in their efforts to prioritize service to others. looking forward to the 119th congress
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address a critical moment in our Nation's history. The Biden-Harris administration's policies have severely weakened our country, putting the American people at risk. From the disastrous withdrawal in Afghanistan, resulting in the loss of 13 servicemembers and arming the Taliban with our equipment, to compromising our allies' energy security by waiving sanctions on Nord Stream 2, this administration has consistently failed the American people. Allowing $6 billion to flow to Iran, a state sponsor of terrorism, is both reckless and dangerous. Simultaneously, we see China continuing its human rights abuses while our Nation grows increasingly dependent on its supply chains. At home, we have seen a Chinese spy balloon surveil sensitive military sites, a border crisis that continues to spiral out of control, and a fentanyl epidemic devastating our communities. Working with the incoming Trump administration, House Republicans are ready to lead. We will secure our borders, restore energy independence, and prioritize America in foreign policy. We will protect American jobs and combat the inflation that is squeezing hardworking families. As we enter the 119th Congress, I look forward to working with my colleagues to reverse the damage done by the Biden-Harris administration and get our country back on track for the American people and our future.
HONORING REPRESENTATIVE KELLY ARMSTRONG2024-12-04
Mr. CLINE
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. It is an honor to be here tonight to pay tribute to a great American and a great Member of this body, Kelly Armstrong. As we turn the page on a new Congress, a number of new freshmen are going to be coming in bewildered and looking for guidance on what committees to get on or what leadership roles to take. When we got here in 2019, Dusty Johnson was in the class, but Kelly Armstrong was also in the class and looked to the Judiciary Committee where he was a natural leader. It was an honor to get to sit next to him during that freshman term on the Judiciary Committee alongside several others. To this day, at the end of our third term, he is the only one left from our class on the Judiciary Committee. I think that is because there was a bit of a trial by fire that we went through there at the beginning. When we came in in 2019, we came in midway through the first Trump administration. After I had been in the majority for 16 years in the State House, it was kind of a shock to my system to have to come into the minority and be faced with a politically motivated impeachment. The Judiciary Committee was ground zero for that impeachment. Looking to Kelly Armstrong for leadership and making sure that the Republicans on the Committee stood up for the rule of law and made sure that this politically motivated impeachment was called out for what it was. In this body there are workhorses and there are show horses. Kelly Armstrong is a workhorse. It is Christmastime, and the other day the White House Christmas party invitation came across my desk. I remembered where I was when the White House Christmas party in 2019 happened. We were sitting in the Judiciary Committee, and we started getting pictures because our spouses could go but we couldn't go. We were there late in the Judiciary Committee into the evening, and we started getting pictures of our spouses, who were enjoying the Christmas party without us, alongside Melania and the President. However, Kelly Armstrong always put the people of North Dakota first, he always put his country first, and he will continue to serve the people of North Dakota as the next Governor. He will do a fantastic job. We will miss him, and it has been an honor to serve with him.
HOUSE REPUBLICANS PREPARE FOR 119TH CONGRESS2024-11-20
Mr. CLINE
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Utah for holding this Special Order this evening. This week, House Republicans are taking a decisive stand to support our fellow Americans who are wrongfully held hostage abroad. The Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act will change the way the IRS will treat American citizens who are held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad. With over 40 Americans currently detained, it is simply unacceptable for them to return home only to face tax penalties imposed by their own government. Our current tax code provides just 1 year of relief before late fees begin to accumulate, and this is unacceptable. The IRS imposing late fees and penalties on hostages for missing tax returns highlights the agency's failure to help the American people. We must ensure these Americans can focus on reuniting with their families and not be burdened by financial penalties and bureaucratic red tape. Additionally, a crucial part of this legislation is that it sends a powerful message to those who finance terrorism that we will revoke the tax-exempt status of U.S. nonprofits that support groups like Hamas. American taxpayers should never be forced to subsidize those who seek to undermine our safety and security. We must stand united with these Americans and make it clear: Our government will not tolerate any support for terrorism. We will continue to fight for justice, and we will continue to fight to protect our citizens. Mr. Speaker, I applaud the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Tenney) for sponsoring this legislation, and I urge all of my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this important bill.
CONGRATULATING NANCY HOWELL AGEE2024-11-19
Mr. CLINE
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight a remarkable individual from our great Commonwealth of Virginia, Nancy Howell Agee. Nancy was born at Roanoke Memorial Hospital, and it was here that she also began her journey into nursing at just 18 years old, a journey fueled by her passion for servant leadership. Over the last 50 years, Nancy has dedicated herself to the health of our community. Starting as a nurse, she rose to the role of president and CEO of Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, making her the only female top executive in that position. Under her leadership, the hospital has flourished, forging vital partnerships with Virginia Tech to establish a new medical school and Radford University's premier nursing program. These initiatives are essential to keeping world-class talent in the Roanoke Valley. As she retires, we must recognize her contributions, especially the future projects she leaves behind, including the new Crystal Spring Tower and the highly anticipated Taubman Cancer Center. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Nancy Howell Agee for her unwavering service and the lasting impact she has made on the Roanoke Valley. We wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement. Congratulating Wayne F. Pryor
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today I honor the remarkable life of a true patriot from Virginia's Sixth District, Mr. Leonard Kraemer, who recently passed away at the remarkable age of 100. Leonard exemplified what it means to serve our country. During World War II, he proudly served in the United States Navy as an electrician on the USS Erben, a Fletcher-class destroyer in the Pacific. His bravery earned him six battle stars, showcasing his dedication and sacrifice. Beyond his military service, Leonard was a pillar of the community. He led as president of the Winchester Host Lions Club for three terms, supported Little League Baseball programs, and even had the honor of playing baseball with Joe DiMaggio at Yankee Stadium. His generous spirit and love for his community continue to inspire us all. As we remember Mr. Leonard Kraemer, let us celebrate his extraordinary life, his wartime sacrifices, and his lifelong commitment to Virginia and our Nation. We thank Leonard for his service and dedication. May he rest in peace.
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary leader in Virginia agriculture, Wayne Pryor. This December, Wayne will retire as president of the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation after 18 remarkable years of service as State president. His dedication goes back even further, having previously served as vice president and as a member of the board since 1988. Wayne's contributions to farming haven't gone unnoticed. He was named Virginia Farm Bureau's Eastern District Young Farmer of the Year early in his career and received the organization's Warren Beach Award in 2005, a testament to his commitment to nurturing future leaders in the agriculture industry. His accolades also include the Honorary American FFA Degree, highlighting his dedication to agricultural education and FFA. Wayne's impact extends beyond Virginia. He serves on the board of the American Farm Bureau Federation and is involved with several key organizations within the agricultural community. Additionally, ``Virginia Business'' magazine has recognized him multiple times in its annual ``Virginia 500`` list of the Commonwealth's most influential business, government, and political leaders. Mr. Speaker, Wayne Pryor's leadership has made a lasting impact on the agricultural community and on Virginia itself. We thank him for his service and wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement. Congratulating the Roanoke Catholic School Girls Track and Field Team
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Roanoke Catholic School girls track and field team for winning the 2024 Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association Division II State Championship. After finishing second or third in the last three years, the Celtics were determined to improve. With hard work in technique, strength training, and practice, they made their championship dreams a reality. This achievement reflects the dedication of both the athletes and their coaches, Jason Smith, Sara Planta, P.J. Moyer, Erika Barger, and Brandie Smith. I especially recognize Jason for being named VISAA Girls Outdoor Division II Coach of the Year. This year's exceptional roster--Aubrey Aaron, Sophia Bradley, Allison Brundrett, Eva Coniglione, Bailey Cundiff, Barrett Cundiff, Charlie Floyd, Annie Kovats, Justinne Llavore, Nicole Medina-Salinas, Mickie O'Herron, Ellie Patel, Karly Smith, Natalie Smith, and Sydney Whitt-- had the honor of bringing home this historic title, marking the first girls track and field championship for Roanoke Catholic and the first private school to win a team title at the Cosmopolitan Invitational. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Roanoke Catholic School girls track and field team on this remarkable achievement. It is a great honor to have such talent in Virginia's Sixth Congressional District. Honoring the Life of Leonard Kraemer
RECOGNIZING BANK OF BOTETOURT'S 125TH ANNIVERSARY2024-09-24
Mr. CLINE
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a cornerstone of our community, the Bank of Botetourt, as they celebrate 125 years of dedicated service. Founded as the Bank of Buchanan in 1899 and chartered by the general assembly, the institution began its journey on Main Street in Buchanan. In 1995, they changed their name to the Bank of Botetourt. Today, they have grown into a vital part of our local economy, boasting $800 million in assets and employing 133 individuals across 13 locations. Covering 2,500 square miles, they positively impact the lives of residents throughout Botetourt, Franklin, Roanoke, and Rockbridge Counties, as well as the city of Salem. Most recently, they have expanded their reach by establishing new offices in Rocky Mount and Goodwill's Melrose Plaza in Roanoke. Throughout its remarkable 125-year history, the bank has been guided by seven dedicated presidents and remains one of only six Virginia State-chartered banks to have existed before the establishment of the State Corporation Commission. Mr. Speaker, I, once again, congratulate the Bank of Botetourt for 125 years of outstanding, efficient, and courteous service to our citizens. May their success continue for many more years to come. Recognizing Muhlenberg Lutheran Church's 175th Anniversary
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize an incredible milestone for Muhlenberg Lutheran Church in Virginia's Sixth District as they celebrate their 175th anniversary this year. Muhlenberg has come far from their humble beginnings in 1849 in downtown Harrisonburg. The first worship space was a small, wooden structure on the corner of Wolfe and Main, and the congregation boasted 50 baptized members. The church grew in size and spirit, and after one century, Muhlenberg broke ground on its current location along East Market Street. The new soaring spire was topped with a unique ``Gospel cross'' containing four outward-pointing arrows. The cross is a perfect representation of the church's identity as members go forth in all directions to live out Christ's love. Muhlenberg's values can be seen in their work to establish People Helping People and Second Home to sponsor refugee families and to support numerous local nonprofits and global missions. Muhlenberg celebrated their anniversary with a homecoming banquet complete with live music, catered lunch, the unveiling of their signature quilt, and a special program recounting memories of the many saints who have gone before them. As they mark 175 faithful years, they look forward to many more, inviting all to gather at the wellspring of God's grace. Honoring Gold Star Mother's Day
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, this week, we honor Gold Star Mothers and the families of our fallen servicemembers. Gold Star Mother's Day, observed on the last Sunday of September, is a tribute to the valor of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our Nation and the immense pain their families endure. The Gold Star symbol originated during World War I when families displayed blue stars for their loved ones in the military. When a servicemember was lost, families would replace the blue star with a gold star, a poignant representation of the profound loss experienced by these families. It is a symbol of love, loss, and sacrifice. While we may never know the exact number of Gold Star families, the national Gold Star Family Registry reports at least 472,259 fallen military members are honored by loved ones. In Virginia alone, at least 9,640 servicemembers have been recognized. Today and every day, we remember the bravery of our fallen heroes and acknowledge the tremendous sacrifice made by their mothers, fathers, siblings, and loved ones. Their families endured unimaginable pain, yet they show incredible resilience and strength. Their sacrifice shapes their lives and reminds us of the true cost of freedom. As we honor Gold Star Mothers, we extend our deepest gratitude to all military families. They are the backbone of our Armed Forces, supporting their loved ones through deployments and navigating uncertainty with resilience. As a Nation, we are forever grateful for the sacrifices made by our servicemembers and their families. Mr. Speaker, we must continue to provide support and resources to help Gold Star families heal and honor the memories of their loved ones. Recognizing Terri Tulley
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable individual from Virginia's Sixth District, Ms. Terri Tulley. Tulley served in the United States Marine Corps from 2000 to 2003 and broke her leg while stationed in Japan in 2001. Due to complications, her leg was amputated in 2020. Tulley went on to train for the National Veterans Wheelchair Games in a variety of sports, including swimming, adaptive fitness, softball, pickleball, air rifle, and cornhole. Tulley was one of 13 people chosen to compete in New Orleans in July on a team sent by the Veterans Affairs facility in Martinsburg, West Virginia. She competed in 7 events and left with 1 gold medal and 2 silver medals in swimming and adaptive fitness. She also placed in the top 8 for pickleball and the top 10 for air rifle. Her remarkable athletic accomplishments and commitment to overcoming adversity are testaments to her exceptional character. Her achievements as an athlete, veteran, wife, and mother deserve commendation. Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate this achievement, we congratulate Terri Tulley on her remarkable feats and thank her for her service. On behalf of Virginia's Sixth District, I extend our deepest gratitude and best wishes. Honoring Leonard Kraemer
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today I honor a special person from Virginia's Sixth District, Mr. Leonard Kraemer, for his amazing service to our country.
RECOGNIZING CONSTITUTION DAY2024-09-19
Mr. CLINE
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Constitution Day, which we observed Monday, honoring the bravery and wisdom of the 39 men who signed the supreme law of the land on September 17, 1787, at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. This pivotal document has truly shaped our Nation's history. For over two centuries, the Constitution has guided us, reflecting the vision of our Founding Fathers. It creates a government that is accountable to the people and dedicated to protecting individual rights. The Constitution lays the foundation for our liberty, ensuring that America remains the freest Nation in the world and secures the God- given rights that we cherish as Americans. As we reflect on its enduring legacy, let us remember that it embodies the values we uphold as a Nation. Let this Constitution Day remind us of our sacred obligation to uphold its principles. We are here to serve the American people and protect their liberties, ensuring their rights are preserved for generations to come. Celebrating WFIR Radio's 100th Anniversary
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate WFIR radio in Roanoke, Virginia, on its 100th anniversary. As the second oldest radio station in Virginia and one of the oldest commercial radio stations in our great Nation, WFIR has been a cornerstone of our community since its founding in 1924. What began as the passionate hobby of Mr. Frank E. Maddox with his amateur station 3BIY evolved into a vital commercial station, thanks to the vision of the Richardson-Wayland Electrical Corporation. They recognized the power of radio to connect communities and seized the opportunity to not just sell radios but to enhance the lives of those in our region. Before WFIR, Roanokers had no reliable radio source during the day and only sporadic signals at night. WFIR changed that reality, delivering a consistent and dynamic voice to the people of Roanoke. Today, it is a trusted source of news, information, and entertainment for countless Virginians. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate WFIR Radio on reaching this remarkable milestone and wish them continued success in the years to come. Celebrating Vinton First Aid Junior Crew's 50th Anniversary
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Vinton First Aid Junior Crew on its 50th anniversary. Back in 1973, nine students from William Byrd High School showed interest in the Vinton First Aid Crew. After attending initial training to become CPR and American Red Cross advanced first aid certified, the Vinton First Aid Junior Crew was officially formed in 1974. The original charter members, Kenneth Drewery, Gary Honaker, Perry Spangler, Terry Fuqua, Mike Huddleston, Chris Stull, Ralph Hargis, Ray Sloan, and Danny Wood showed us what it means to serve. These dedicated individuals were recently honored at the 2023 installation and Christmas banquet by the Vinton First Aid Crew and the town of Vinton. While their paths may have diverged over the years, with many pursuing profound careers in public service, they remain bonded by that shared commitment from their youth. Two members, Chris Stull and Danny Wood, achieved life-member status with the Vinton First Aid crew. Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing this incredible milestone. Their dedication to service over 50 years ago set a standard that continues to inspire today. Honoring the Life of Daniel E. Karnes
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Lieutenant Colonel Daniel ``Dan'' E. Karnes, a dedicated servant to our country and his community. A proud native of Roanoke, Dan enlisted in the U.S. Army at just 17 years old, completing two tours in Vietnam. After returning to southwest Virginia, he completed his education and devoted himself to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Dan began his career as a clinical social worker and went on to manage a counseling center for combat veterans in Roanoke, ensuring our heroes received the support they needed. He was a constant presence in the veteran community, taking on numerous volunteer and public service roles, always with humility and a profound commitment to his fellow veterans. He served on essential boards like the State Board of Mental Health, the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority, and Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare. Dan was also an active member of organizations such as the Rotary, Kiwanis, American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars, among others. Dan is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Nancy Walters Karnes. His dear friend, Captain Gary Powers, once said that he was an individual who selflessly dedicated his life to helping others in need. This is a true testament to a meaningful life well lived. Let us honor Dan's legacy by continuing to support our veterans and those in need in our communities. Celebrating Captain Leland Teets' 100th Birthday
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable individual from Virginia's Sixth District, Captain Leland Teets, and his service to our Nation. Captain Teets embodies what it means to be a devoted American, and his birthday on June 25 marked 100 years of patriotism. Throughout World War II, Leland Teets served with the United States Army. He stormed Utah Beach on D-day, surviving two gunshot wounds to the leg from a German soldier. After his bravery on that fateful day, Captain Teets spent 153 days in England undergoing medical care before continuing to serve in the Battle of the Bulge. However, Captain Teets' legacy goes far beyond his military service. Returning home, he dedicated 35 years as a security officer for the Mount Weather facility in Clarke County, Virginia, contributing to the safety of our community and our Nation. I wish Captain Teets a belated happy birthday and extend our deepest gratitude and best wishes on behalf of Virginia's Sixth District.
DHS RESTRICTIONS ON CONFUCIUS INSTITUTES AND CHINESE ENTITIES OF CONCERN ACT2024-09-10
Mr. CLINE
Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chairman, I rise as the designee of the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Huizenga), and I have an amendment at the desk.