Ben Cline

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the late General John D. Lavelle who was born on this day in 1916. Jack Lavelle was one of the early investors in Bryce Resort in Basye, Virginia. He worked hard to keep Bryce solvent in those days, and contributed to turning it into the member-owned resort it is today. Jack served in the Air Force all over the world, but thought the Shenandoah Valley was the most beautiful place he'd been to. On the eve of war in 1939 he enlisted as an aviation cadet in the Army Air Corps and received pilot training at Randolph and Kelly Fields, Texas. He received his pilot wings and a commission as a second lieutenant in June 1940. During World War II he saw combat in the European theater of operations, where he served with the 412th Fighter Squadron. Following the war, he was assigned to Wright Field, where he was one of the two Air Corps officers who negotiated with all seven Army Technical Services and wrote the agreements for the division of assets and the operating procedures to be affected during the buildup of the Air Force. As a career airman with a 32-year reputation as being a smart, hardworking leader, he was promoted to four star general and assigned Commander of the Seventh Air Force in Vietnam on August 1, 1971. In April 1972, General Lavelle was removed from command as a result of allegations that he ordered unauthorized bombing missions into North Vietnam, and that he authorized the falsification of reports to conceal the missions. General Lavelle was retired in the grade of major general, two grades lower than the last grade he served on Active Duty. General Lavelle always maintained his innocence until his death on July 10, 1979. On this day of that year, his widow Mary Josephine McEllin Lavelle dedicated a flagpole with base and flag, and a plaque in his honor at Bryce, which is still there today. In 2007, newly released and declassified information disclosed that General Lavelle was authorized by President Richard Nixon to conduct the bombing missions. In light of the new information, his widow made a request to the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records for the restoration of his grade to general, his last grade while on Active Duty. On August 4, 2010, President Barack Obama nominated General Lavelle posthumously for promotion back to the grade of general on the Air Force retired list based on the information that he had been authorized by President Richard Nixon to conduct the bombing missions. Further, the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records found no evidence that General Lavelle caused, either directly or indirectly, the alleged falsification of records, or that he was even aware of their existence. Unfortunately, the Senate Armed Services Committee returned the nomination, and still to this day will not allow the full restoration of his grade to general. Jack Lavelle served the country outstandingly over his entire career. He and his wife ``Jo'' were heartbroken when he was removed from command and forced out of the Air Force that they had grown up with and were so proud of. But they found some solace in retirement in the beauty and peace of Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. General USAF (Ret.) Jack Lavelle is recognized by me today as an honorable and patriotic American and we remember him today as such on the anniversary of his birthday, September 9, 1916.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a cornerstone of faith and community in Winchester, Virginia, First Presbyterian Church, which is celebrating its 225th anniversary this September under the leadership of Rev. Amanda Maguire Thomas. Founded in 1800 but with roots reaching back to the earliest days of Winchester, First Presbyterian has stood as a witness to history and as a steadfast presence in the lives of generations. From hosting the funeral of Revolutionary War hero Daniel Morgan to opening one of the first Sunday schools south of the Mason-Dixon Line, its story is woven into the fabric of our Nation's growth. What really makes this church remarkable is its service. First Presbyterian helped to establish the Free Medical Clinic, Jubilee Kitchen, and many other initiatives that have lifted our neighbors in times of need. Even today, the congregation continues to live out its faith through community service, disaster response, and care for creation. Mr. Speaker, for 225 years, First Presbyterian Church has embodied the values of faith, service, and resilience. On behalf of the people of Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, I congratulate them on this milestone and thank them for their unwavering commitment to God and community. Celebrating 50th Anniversary of Seniors First

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 50th anniversary of Seniors First, the Shenandoah Area Agency on Aging. In 1965, with the passage of the Older Americans Act, Congress laid the foundation for home and community-based services so that older Americans could live with dignity, health, and independence. That vision remains alive today through organizations like Seniors First. Since its incorporation in 1975, Seniors First has served as the only comprehensive regional provider for older adults across the northern Shenandoah Valley. From Meals on Wheels and personal care to transportation, senior centers, and insurance counseling, these services make it possible for older Virginians to remain at home while being supported and connected to their communities. This vital work is carried forward by a dedicated team of senior center managers: Joe Babcock of Shenandoah County, Tina Landis of Winchester, Amy Courtney of Page County, Misty Alger of Warren County, Erica Owens of Clarke County, and Renee Carr of Frederick County, led by Executive Director Jimmy Roberts. For 50 years, Seniors First has exemplified dignity, compassion, and service. I congratulate them on this milestone and thank them for their continued commitment to our older neighbors. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Charles James Kirk

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Charles James Kirk. At just 31 years old, Charlie accomplished what many could only hope to accomplish in a lifetime. He built a movement, inspired the next generation to love their country, and stood for the principles he believed in. Charlie's commitment to free speech and open dialogue on college campuses was at the core of his mission. He believed that young people should not only be heard but also equipped to engage respectfully in the exchange of ideas. In an era when open discussion is too often silenced, Charlie's voice reminded us all of the importance of defending our First Amendment rights. He was a man of deep faith, grounded in Christ, and he shared those traditional values with countless people across the Nation. His life reflected courage and conviction, a combination that left a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. While his time with us was far too short, Charlie's legacy will endure. It lives on in the students he mentored, the conversations he sparked, and the love of country he instilled in so many. Today, we honor not only his achievements but also the values he championed and the example he set for all Americans. Mr. Speaker, may God comfort his wife, Erika, his children, and all those whose lives he touched. May we continue to carry forward his commitment to free speech and open dialogue that defined Charlie's remarkable life. Bolstering America's Grid Reliability

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, families and businesses in Virginia's Sixth District are paying the price for failed energy policies. Reliability has suffered and communities are left uncertain whether the lights will stay on. That is why I strongly support the GRID Power Act. This commonsense bill cuts through red tape and empowers grid operators to prioritize power generation projects that actually improve reliability and affordability. For too long, unreliable energy sources have been propped up while reliable options in coal, natural gas, nuclear, and hydropower have been forced into premature retirement. Meanwhile, subsidies have been shoveled into wind and solar despite these intermittent sources being unable to fully replace the stability and affordability that traditional energy generation provides. The facts are clear: More than 95 percent of projects in the interconnection queue are wind, solar, or battery storage, yet only 5 percent are ever completed. Meanwhile, critical projects face years of delay. Families should not have to pay for two grids: one for wind and solar and another backup system for when the wind isn't blowing and the Sun isn't shining. The GRID Power Act ensures we get back to building affordable and reliable energy. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a true American hero, John Eakin of Catawba, Virginia, who will celebrate his 101st birthday on October 2. At the age of 19, John was drafted into the U.S. Army and served with the 34th Infantry Division, 168th Regiment, Company C. As a rifleman, he fought in some of the fiercest campaigns in Italy, including the final victory of the 34th Division. His valor earned him the Bronze Star medal, and he received commendations from President Truman and General Omar Bradley. John's story is one of both sacrifice and survival. He endured dangerous scouting patrols, near encounters with snipers, and even narrowly avoided sinking at sea. After the war, John returned home with the rank of staff sergeant. He farmed, built homes, and contributed to his community near Roanoke, Virginia. At 101 years young, he remains active in church and family life, an enduring example of faith, resilience, and service. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Virginia's Sixth District and a grateful nation, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating John Eakin on his 101st birthday and in honoring his extraordinary life. Celebrating 100th Birthday of Marion Grey Noel

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Marion Grey Noel of Botetourt County, Virginia, who will celebrate his 100th birthday on October 12. His life reflects the very best of our Nation: service, sacrifice, and commitment to family and community. Born near Eagle Rock in 1925, Mr. Noel enlisted in the United States Navy at the height of World War II. As a crew member of USS LST-779, he took part in the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. His ship delivered desperately needed artillery to Green Beach and provided the flag raised atop Mount Suribachi in Joe Rosenthal's iconic photograph, a moment forever etched in our Nation's history. After the war, Mr. Noel returned home, served 35 years with the U.S. Postal Service, and devoted his life to faith, family, and community service. A husband to his late wife, Beveline, for 73 years, he is the proud father of Donnie and Tony, and a beloved grandfather and great- grandfather. Mr. Speaker, we celebrate Mr. Noel's century of life and service, and we thank him for his enduring example of courage, patriotism, and devotion to country. Celebrating 100th Anniversary of Shrine Mont

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, this year we honor the 100th anniversary of Shrine Mont, a place of sacred refuge nestled in the Shenandoah Valley and owned by the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia. On August 6, 1925, Bishop William Cabell Brown consecrated the Cathedral Shrine of the Transfiguration, built from stones hauled from the mountain by faithful hands. That open-air shrine became the heart of what is now a beloved retreat and conference center. Shrine Mont's legacy endures thanks to generations of stewards, including the Woodward and Gibson families, whose vision and endowment ensured its growth. Today, Executive Director Kevin Moomaw, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, leads the center with Program Director Mary Moomaw and Development Director Kirk Gibson. Together with a dedicated board, they uphold Shrine Mont's mission of hospitality, community, and faith, while preserving its cultural heritage through the restored Orkney Springs Hotel, its art collection, and the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival. As Shrine Mont celebrates 100 years, I salute this holy place and all who have made it a sanctuary of spirit and culture for generations past and those still to come.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise with pride to honor the incredible athletes of Clarke County High School who for first time since 2009 are State champs in girls' track and field. The Eagles won the 4x400 meter relay to surge past the competition and win the Class 2 State meet at James Madison University. Led by seniors Teya Starley, who captured the 800-meter title and anchored the 4x400 relay; Reagan ``Megatron'' Myer, whose triple jump and 200 meter earned crucial points; and the ever-determined Abigail Cochran and Molly Husted, the Eagles soared to victory. They were joined by their teammates Kendall Harman, Grace Gerenski, Kenedy Money, and Mia Timberlake, who each gave it their all. None of this would have been possible without Coach Andre Kidrick, a true leader in his 18th and final season. His legacy, built on heart, toughness, and unity, will echo through Clarke County for generations. He was assisted by Coaches Jamie Starley, Gary Wymer, Nancy Specht, Regina Downing, and Jeff Webster in a true team effort. Please join me in congratulating these young women, their coaches, and the entire Clarke County community on this remarkable achievement. Go Eagles. Honoring Glenvar High School Highlanders Boys' Soccer Team

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Glenvar High School Highlanders boys' soccer team. They are the 2025 Virginia Class 2 State champs for the third straight year. Led by Head Coach Josh Jones, Captains Kian Fisher, Jake Williams, Aidan Hylton, and a remarkable roster: Grayson Shepherd, Tyler Shannon, Jackson Jones, Alan Vu, Kees Van Gerven, Gavin Miller, Tyler Curfiss, Seth Nichols, Levi King, Zack Brown, Heath Russell, Luke Farmer, Parker Doolan, Avery McClanahan, Cooper Mullins, Zach Adams, Henry Schruth, Griffin Geddes, Adam Saunders, James Housh, Alex Rottkamp, Ryder Francisco, Evan Harris, Wesley Feliciano, and Connor Magruder, this squad delivered perfection with a 23-0 record. They outscored their opponents 134-3, dominating with 20 shutouts and trailing for only 4 minutes all year. In the June 14 final, goals from Hylton and Saunders secured a 2-0 win over Bruton, claiming their fifth straight Region C and Three Rivers District titles. They also extended a 61-game unbeaten streak of 98-3 and 2 ties since 2021. Mr. Speaker, I commend the entire coaching and support staff, as well as school leadership, for guiding these young men to excellence. We congratulate the Glenvar Highlanders. They have made Glenvar and the Roanoke Valley proud. Celebrating Virginia Poultry Federation's 100th Anniversary

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Virginia Poultry Federation, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. In August of 1925, a group of poultrymen gathered at Virginia Tech for the first poultry field day where they organized the Virginia Poultry Federation and began a century-long mission to strengthen and support the poultry and ag industry. For the past 100 years, the Federation has served farmers, processors, and businesses through effective advocacy, youth programs, scholarships, and vital partnerships. From education and outreach to supporting 4-H, FAA, and ag in the classroom, its contributions extend far beyond the farm. Today, more than 1,000 farm families depend on this thriving industry which generates billions of dollars in wages and economic impact across the Commonwealth of Virginia. Nowhere is this more evident than in Virginia's Sixth Congressional District, the birthplace of the modern poultry industry and the top producing region in Virginia today. The continued strength of the poultry and egg industries in the Shenandoah Valley and across the Commonwealth is a testament to the federation's enduring commitment to its mission. I commend President Hobey Bauhan and the Virginia Poultry Federation on a century of service, leadership, and success, and I wish them many more years of growth and innovation. Making D.C. Safe Again

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the importance of commonsense policies that put public safety first. For too long, we have seen soft-on-crime approaches that let repeat offenders walk free, putting law-abiding citizens at risk. However, recent data from Washington, D.C., shows that when we take crime seriously, communities become a safer place. Since President Trump took decisive action to tackle crime head-on in our Nation's Capital, burglaries have dropped by nearly one-half and car thefts have fallen 36 percent. These are not just numbers on a page. They represent families who can walk their neighborhoods with greater peace of mind. They represent small business owners who feel more secure about opening their doors. They represent children who can play outside without the same fear of violence. This is what happens when we adopt commonsense policies. Holding criminals accountable works. Protecting communities works. Supporting law enforcement works. D.C.'s progress should serve as a model for the rest of the country. The American people are tired of failed policies that prioritize criminals over victims. We should reject those failed approaches and instead double down on strategies that deliver results for America.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to mark the anniversary of the legendary Freedom Train, a rolling symbol of American ideals that traveled more than 37,000 miles from 1947 to 1949, visiting all 48 States and welcoming over 3.5 million citizens aboard. For over 30 years, my constituents, Mary Jayne and John Z. Rowe, have been at the forefront of efforts to preserve the memory of this great national event which helped to remind Americans of the foundations of their liberty. Powered by the groundbreaking ALCO PA diesel locomotive, numbered 1776 and named the ``Spirit of 1776,'' the train revolutionized public perception of rail power. In an age still dominated by steam, the diesel proved its mettle across all terrain and climate, operating reliably without pause for coal or water. Its performance, witnessed by millions and scrutinized by railroad leaders nationwide, helped hasten the transition from steam to diesel across American railroads. Beyond technology, the Freedom Train carried our founding documents and civic ideals to the people. It was guarded by marines, celebrated in towns, and kissed literally by thousands in cities like Brooklyn. It was not a government project but a private and patriotic mission supported by the Truman administration and the American Heritage Foundation. At a moment of global uncertainty, the Freedom Train reminded Americans of who we were and who we still are. Recognizing the Roanoke Catholic School Lady Celtics

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary accomplishments of the Roanoke Catholic School Lady Celtics girls' track and field team who captured the 2025 VISAA Division II Virginia State championship with remarkable determination and unity. After narrowly missing the title by three points in 2023, the Lady Celtics redoubled their efforts, displaying unmatched teamwork in a sport often focused on individual performance. Guided by an outstanding group of seniors and supported by dedicated underclassmen, they secured the championship with a commanding margin of 55.5 points. I commend Head Coach Jason Smith and the entire 2025 team. They are Aubrey Aaron, Addison Becker, Anna Stadnyk, Charlie Floyd, Karly Smith, Justinne Llavore, Eva Coniglione, Lillian Kessler, Sydney Whitt, Jamariah Edwards, Lauren Bradley, Brinkley Aaron, Molly O'Herron, Joey Barger, and Kuk Kuk Chen. Their perseverance, skill, and sportsmanship are an inspiration to our community. I congratulate the Lady Celtics on this well-earned State title. Enforcing Laws for Illegal Entry

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Stop Illegal Entry Act. In recent years, more than 10 million illegal immigrants have crossed into our country, including hundreds who are on the terrorist watch list. This is more than a border crisis. It is a serious national security threat. A failure to enforce our laws created a dangerous incentive. Cross illegally, break our laws, and a person is likely to be released into our communities under past radical policies. That had to change. Even more concerning, over 70 percent of those charged with illegal reentry last year had criminal records. These are not first-time offenders. These are repeat criminals who have shown complete disregard for our laws. The Stop Illegal Entry Act will increase penalties and prison time for illegal entry and reentry, sending a clear message that there will be consequences. President Trump ended catch and release. With this legislation, House Republicans are continuing that commitment to restore accountability and protect American families. It is time to bring back law and order by stopping these illegal crossings. I urge my colleague to support this bill and stand for the safety of the American people.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the Central Falcons softball team for their first-ever State championship title. The heart of this historic victory was the junior left fielder Hadley Witherow, who made the catch of her life to seal the 4-1 win over King William for the class 2 State title. The Falcons were led by Coach Timmy Wakeman and Assistant Coach Jamey Mantz, who instilled belief in players like Kristen Hockman, whose bat sparked the offense; Veronica Gordon, who delivered key hits; and Keriana Stottlemyer, who set the tone with her patience at the plate. Serenity Burnshire and Carsyn Burton added crucial doubles, and Vanessa Gordon's sacrifice fly RBI in the bottom of the fifth created another scoring play. While in the circle, Lexi Burkholder and Liz Bilbow combined for a stellar performance, supported by the steady glove of Emily Finks behind the plate. Together, they held off King William's powerful bats. Mr. Speaker, please join me in celebrating this remarkable group, the Central Falcons softball team, and their unforgettable championship run. recognizing president's cup winner christendom college

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor Christendom College, which has, once again, shown that excellence on the field can go hand in hand with achievement in the classroom. The United States Collegiate Athletic Association named Christendom the winner of the 2025 President's Cup, recognizing the Nation's top academic-performing athletic department. I commend Director of Athletics Patrick Quest and Assistant Athletic Director Joe Dotson for their outstanding leadership. Christendom's varsity teams posted a 3.51 GPA, with the senior student athlete class achieving a 3.61 average. A total of 45 student- athlete sophomores, juniors, and seniors earned USCAA and NCR National Academic All-American honors. The 20 senior academic all-Americans are Josie Belleville, Regina Bonvissuto, Cate Brezinsky, Jude Burkett, Sean Corcoran, Joshua Cruz, David Echaniz, John Gunthorpe, Miranda Keller, Colleen Kosten, Bridget McCaughey, Mary Noble, Mary Sabados, Lizzie Scarchilli, Andrew Snyder, Catherine Thomas, Michael Townsend, JP Tsakanikas, Christopher Usher, and Nicholas Ward, many excelling in multiple sports. Twenty-five sophomores and juniors were also recognized for their academic excellence. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Christendom on this fourth President's Cup in 6 years, which reflects a deep commitment to forming student athletes who excel both intellectually and athletically. recognizing salem high school boys' lacrosse team

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize the Salem High School boys' lacrosse team, which made history this year by capturing their first-ever VHSL State championship. They capped an incredible 2025 season with an 11-7 victory over Loudoun County. Along the way, they won the Region 4D championship with a 14-3 win over Jefferson Forest and claimed the Tommy Girani Cup, achieving all three of their goals. Their journey was defined by resilience and determination. After falling short in last year's quarterfinals, they returned to defeat Broad Run 9-4 and upset three-time defending champs Atlee in a hard- fought 7-5 semifinal. This historic run was powered by standout performances. Jackson Jones led with 37 goals and 47 assists. Holden Custer added 45 goals and 21 assists. Parker Dallas scored 42 goals with 36 assists. Jackson Wininger contributed 24 goals and 26 assists. On defense, Ronnie Frith, Brayden Hall, and Carson Garland combined for over 120 takeaways and 180 ground balls, while goalie Richard Hof made 125 saves. Face-off specialist Ryan Warren won nearly 70 percent of his draws. Remarkably, seven players earned first team all-State honors. I commend Coach George Revercomb, his staff, and Athletic Director Drew Barrett. This championship reflects the spirit of Salem, a city that rallies behind its youth. I congratulate the team, their families, and the Salem community. protecting americans from financial surveillance

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act. This critical legislation aims to safeguard financial privacy and freedom of the American people. A central bank digital currency may sound like innovation, but under Federal control, it becomes a powerful and dangerous tool for surveillance. This allows unelected bureaucrats to monitor and potentially restrict how Americans spend their hard-earned wages. Recently, we have seen alarming examples of this kind of overreach, from the Chinese Communist Party using its digital currency to track and control citizens to Prime Minister Trudeau in Canada freezing the bank accounts of peaceful protesters. That kind of government power has no place in the United States. The Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act ensures the Federal Reserve cannot issue a CBDC without explicit authorization from Congress. It protects financial privacy and upholds the constitutional rights of every American.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 81st Convention of the Kappa Alpha Order, which will be held in Roanoke, the heart of Virginia's Sixth District. It is a distinct honor to welcome this historic brotherhood back to its roots. Kappa Alpha Order was founded on December 21, 1865, in a small room at Washington College, now Washington and Lee University, in Lexington, Virginia. What began as a bond of friendship has grown into a nationwide organization that continues to promote leadership, service, and moral integrity. The Order's motto, ``Dieu et les Dames,'' meaning God and the Ladies, reflects its core values. For over 150 years, its members have committed themselves to cultivating character and serving their communities with distinction. Today, KA's across the country continue to make a meaningful impact through ongoing charitable work, campus leadership, and a lifelong commitment to honor and duty. The Order's presence in our local community is a point of pride, and I applaud their continued contributions to the betterment of our society.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a beloved mainstay in Virginia's Sixth District, Fulks Run Grocery, celebrating 75 years of continuous and family-owned service. Fulks Run Grocery was opened in 1949 by Navy veteran Garnett Turner and his wife, Lena, as a general store offering a little bit of everything. They are probably best known, though, for their award- winning Turner country ham, using an old-fashioned sugar-cured recipe from Garnett's grandfather. Over the years, ownership passed from Garnett to his brother, Miles, and wife, Marcella; to Garnett's son, Ron, and wife, Peggie; and now to his grandson, Chad Ritchie, and wife, Anna. Alongside General Manager Jared Bowser, they continue to proudly serve their corner of Rockingham County and beyond. On June 14, they gathered in celebration with live music, door prizes, and the HamVan turning out their famous ham sandwiches. Even the store's very first employee, Virginia Ann Fawley Hulvey, joined in. Fulks Run Grocery isn't just a store. It is a legacy rooted in family and community. I congratulate the Turner family on reaching this incredible milestone. I wish them many more years of success, and I look forward to stopping into the store again soon. Congratulating Stuart Hall School Boys' Basketball Team

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Stuart Hall School boys' basketball team on winning their first 2025 VISAA Division 4 State championship. The Dragons secured the championship with a 69-56 victory over Rise Academy, led by standout performances from Owen Laver with 17 points, Tiberius Fields with 16 points, and Christian Scott with 12 points. They finished the season with a 13-game winning streak and a 19-2 record. The Dragons' dominant defense allowed the fewest points per game in all VISAA divisions. I again congratulate the 2024-2025 Stuart Hall boys' basketball team, consisting of Wade Bland, Ethan Baiotto, Xavier Bland, Latham Fields, Tiberius Fields, Harper Kauffman, Owen Laver, Cori Powell-Nisbett, Malachi Payne, Linney Reed, and Christian Scott. The team was led by Head Coach Jeff Lafave and Assistant Coach Rob Hagy. I also recognize two significant individual honors: Tiberius Fields was named VISAA Division 4 Player of the Year, and Jeff Lafave was named VISAA Division 4 Coach of the Year. It is an honor to have such a program in Virginia's Sixth Congressional District, and I wish them the best for many seasons to come. Requiring DHS to Report High-Risk Individual Encounters

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Special Interest Alien Reporting Act. In recent years, over 400 individuals on the terrorist watch list have been caught trying to enter our country through our southern border due to the failed policies of the previous administration, with many of these individuals coming from hostile nations, like China and Iran, which seek to do us harm. This situation demands a means for positive change. When we don't know who is coming in, where they are headed, or what their intentions are, every single American community is put at risk. That is why House Republicans are stepping up. This week, we are set to vote on the Special Interest Alien Reporting Act. This commonsense bill would require the Department of Homeland Security to publicly report the number of high-risk individuals encountered at the border because without transparency, there is no accountability. Without accountability, our national security is on the line. This critical legislation is not just necessary but vital. It puts the American people first. We will keep fighting to secure our border and protect every American citizen.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable impact of New Freedom Farm in Botetourt County, Virginia, and to honor its founder, Lois Dawn McGill, as she prepares for a well-deserved retirement. Since 2016, New Freedom Farm has served as a place of healing for veterans, first responders, and rescue animals, offering a sanctuary where pain met purpose and isolation gave way to hope. Through Lois' tireless dedication, lives were transformed and bonds were forged between heroes and horses. As the farm prepares to close on July 31, we reflect not with sorrow but with deep gratitude. The legacy of New Freedom Farm will live on in the hearts it healed and the community it united. Mr. Speaker, I thank Lois for her vision, compassion, and unwavering service. She has left an indelible mark on all she has touched. Honoring Retirement of Fire Chief Tim Williams

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and commend an extraordinary public servant, Shenandoah County Fire Chief Tim Williams, who will retire on October 1 after an astounding 50 years of dedicated service in fire and rescue. Chief Williams began his journey as a volunteer with the Strasburg Volunteer Fire Department in 1975. He went on to serve 25 years with Fairfax County, ultimately retiring as a captain, and then brought his leadership to Shenandoah County, where he has served since 2005, including the past 9 years as chief. Chief Williams has been a unifying force, skillfully bridging the gap between volunteer companies and career staff. Under his leadership, the department launched a strategic plan that brought all stakeholders together and set a path for the future. His guidance has ensured operational readiness and the expansion of essential services, even as challenges grew more complex. Chief Williams leaves behind a legacy of integrity, collaboration, and tireless dedication. I thank him for his service, leadership, and enduring commitment to the safety of our communities. He has truly earned this next chapter in his life. Eliminating Wasteful Federal Spending