Tom Davis

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I rise to claim the time in opposition.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I oppose this amendment. This amendment would raise the threshold by which agencies must prove they would have taken disciplinary action against an employee notwithstanding the employee's whistleblower claim. Current law requires agencies to prove this by clear and convincing evidence. This amendment raises the threshold and requires agencies to prove that such action was highly probable or reasonably certain. There may be a real issue here which must be addressed, but after working on this bill for years now yesterday was the first time that this issue was brought to our attention. On its face, I am concerned this amendment would raise an already high threshold imposed upon agencies trying to prove they are placing an employee on administrative leave because, for example, the employee sexually harassed another employee and not because the employee is a whistleblower. The current clear and convincing evidence standard seems a sufficient burden of proof to impose upon agencies. I am also concerned we may be establishing a dangerous precedent by further defining in one isolated statute what the term ``clear and convincing evidence'' means. Does the U.S. Code typically define standards of proof such as ``clear and convincing'' and ``beyond a reasonable doubt'' or are these terms of art defined in case law? And does this new definition of ``highly probable'' or ``reasonably certain'' actually solve the problem or does it make it even more confusing for courts and litigants? Mr. Chairman, there may be a valid issue here worth investigating. It is entirely possible that the Office of Special Counsel, the Merit Systems Protection Board and the courts are getting this wrong, but we should review this proposed change and vet it through the committee process before amending the Whistleblower Protection Act. The good news is we have an opportunity to address these questions. The authorizations for both the Office of Special Counsel and the Merit Systems Protection Board expire this year, and the committee can and should carefully review the issue as we consider these reauthorizations. I think my concern on this, if there is a pending sexual harassment claim against an employee, and they all of the sudden turn out and become a whistleblower, that then in the sexual harassment claim we have a higher standard, and for the litigant, the person that has been harassed in that case, they have a higher burden of proof than they would notwithstanding the whistleblower claim. I do not think that is fair to the person who is being harassed in this case, and I do not see a need for it. So I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment today and allow the committee in regular order to consider carefully and foil this problem identified by my good friend and colleague Mr. Platts. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I just urge my colleagues to oppose the amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania and, once again, thank him for his leadership on this issue. I support this amendment. This amendment will extend additional whistleblower protections against reprisal to employees who cooperate with their agency Inspector General or in some other official grievance or investigative process. Unfortunately, courts have misread the intent of the Whistleblower Protection Act and have arbitrarily reclassified certain whistleblowing activity as an exercise of appeal right. These rights are covered under a different section of title V of the U.S. Code. By reclassifying these activities as exercises of appeal right, the courts have deprived employees of whistleblowing protection for their same disclosure showing significant misconduct if presented in a grievance or litigation instead of, for example, in a television interview. It could occur when an employee faces reprisal as one associated with a whistleblower when testifying in an IG investigation or Office of Special Counsel investigation. It strikes me these are precisely the forums Congress intended the whistleblower to take. These are, in essence, whistleblowers who are operating within the existing chain of command. They have used the chain of command, not gone outside the system, but they are not afforded the same protection as those who do. These are the forums where we can actually make a difference to policymakers. This amendment ends the inequity by clarifying that an otherwise protected disclosure cannot be disqualified because of the forum where it is communicated. I support this amendment. I congratulate my friend for offering it.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lynbrook Elementary School on their 50th anniversary. Located in Springfield, Virginia, Lynbrook Elementary School opened its doors on February 11, 1957. Although it opened on that day and was dedicated a month later, the school continued to take shape over the next twenty years as the local population boomed and the true needs of the community were realized. An air-conditioning system, a gymnasium, a music room, additional classrooms and ``the pod'' were all added to create the Lynbrook that we know today. Additionally, in 1976 a contest was held to select a new school mascot. Out of this contest, and the imagination of a young Wee Lane Yee, Lenny the Leprechaun was born. The school continued to evolve through the end of the last century. In the 1980's many of Lynbrook's long standing traditions, including ``Shamrock Shindigs'' and the medieval fair, were started. Also, the students began publishing the schools first newspaper, The Four Leaf Clover, which remains in circulation today. Lynbrook strives to stay true to its long standing mission statement: to provide a safe environment where all students will become lifelong learners and develop a positive sense of self-worth and an appreciation among students, staff and community for all diverse backgrounds and experiences. To that end, the school is constantly seeking to improve its strong relations with its students, parents and community. The students' academic, social and emotional learning are met utilizing proven instructional strategies. Families are encouraged to participate in PTA events, such as: family nights, socials, concerts, student programs and cultural events. Additionally, Lynbrook has been repeatedly recognized for its students' active participation in the Marine Corps Marathon Healthy Kid Fun Run. All of these factors demonstrate a concerted effort on behalf of the school's faculty to mold the young people at Lynbrook Elementary into well rounded, high-functioning adolescents. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to commend and congratulate all of the students, faculty and parents who have played such an integral part in the establishment and growth of this fine academic institution. I call upon my colleagues to join me in congratulating Lynbrook Elementary School on its 50th anniversary and in wishing them many more years of continued academic success.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Fair Oaks Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, FOVFR, as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. Since its inception in 1957, FOVFR has achieved great success. Working alongside career personnel, the company has provided high quality fire, medical, emergency, and support services. In my experiences with the company, I have seen its unwavering dedication to the Fairfax County community as well as its volunteers' strong values of unity, performance and personalized delivery. While FOVFR has admirably served the Fairfax County community for 50 years, their efforts in 2006 were especially notable. During the past year, volunteers spent 9,613 hours actively responding to emergency situations. Volunteer stand-by units supported the Marine Corps Marathon, the Annual National Down Syndrome Society's Buddy Walk, various high school band competitions and more. Company statistics show a growing need for FOVFR's excellent services. Response levels for basic life support, canteen and command level services all were elevated last year, in certain cases by as much as 30 percent. I am confident that FOVFR will continue to rise to the occasion to meet the needs of their local community in the years to come. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the men and women who serve in the Fair Oaks Fire and Rescue Company. Their efforts, made on behalf of the citizens of Fairfax County, are selfless acts of heroism and truly merit our highest praise. I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding this group of remarkable citizens and congratulate them on their 50th anniversary.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Fairfax County Federation of Citizens Associations 2006 Fairfax County Citizen of the Year, Sally B. Ormsby. For the past 40 years Sally B. Ormsby has been a dedicated community activist fighting on behalf of her neighbors in Mantua and the residents of Fairfax County, Virginia. Her community activism started through focused pursuits on parent-teacher associations and garden clubs, but blossomed into larger roles that ultimately changed the face of the community in which she lived. Most notably, in 1990, when a local underground oil spill rocked the foundation and stability of her local Mantua community, she rallied her neighbors, calmed fears and sought logical and appropriate remedies to the issues at hand. In the midst of the community outrage that followed concerning associated health risks and collapsing home values, Sally's steady hand played a key role in addressing the containment, control, and remediation of the affected grounds. This highlights just one of her many crowning achievements where her hard work and dedication overcame immense obstacles for the betterment of Fairfax County. Over the years she has served as president of the Federation of Fairfax County Citizens Associations, chair of the Providence District Council of Civic Associations, president of the Woodson High School PTA, appointee to the Committee on Revenue Expenditures, a member of the board of directors of the League of Women Voters and president of the Mantua Civic Association, to name a few. Sally has always been able and willing to step forward when duty called, to work toward the positive resolution of pressing local issues. Her leadership is most evident in the face of crisis where her ethos of service acts as a beacon guiding her fellow citizens towards their collective end goal. While compiling this impressive legacy of service, Sally has been a dedicated wife to her husband, Dr. W. Clayton Ormsby, and loving mother to her two children, Alison and Tyler. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to commend and congratulate Sally on her impressive record of service to Fairfax County. I call upon my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Sally B. Ormsby, the 2006 Fairfax County Federation of Citizens Associations Citizen of the Year.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Lee A. Rau, recipient of the 2006 Citation of Merit by the Fairfax County Federation of Citizens Association. A resident of Reston, Virginia, since the 1960s, Mr. Rau has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life of Fairfax County residents. Possessing a true passion for the less fortunate, Mr. Rau has addressed the growing problem of housing affordability in Northern Virginia by offering his legal expertise to a variety of community projects. Throughout his career as a notable public servant, Mr. Rau has been involved with myriad civic organizations including Reston Association, Lake Anne Village Center Revitalization Project, Reston Interfaith, Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority, Greater Reston Arts Council, and the High Rise Affordability Panel established by Hunter Mill District Supervisor Cathy Hudgins. Through this work, Mr. Rau is able to assist Fairfax County in meeting affordable housing goals: increasing the supply, encouraging their provision, conserving stable neighborhoods and revitalizing older neighborhoods. While actively engaged in civic activity throughout Fairfax County, Mr. Rau has also served on an extensive list of professional associations such as the American Bar Association, Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, United States Chamber of Commerce Council on Antitrust Policy, D.C. Bar Energy Study Group, and the Constitutional and Administrative Law Advisory Committee of the National Chamber Litigation Center, Inc. Mr. Rau was named the 1990 Restonian of the Year; was awarded the Best of Reston Award in 1996, and is more than deserving of this Citation of Merit. His commitment to his community and to making the county a better place to live for all of its residents is to be commended. Madam Speaker, in closing, I applaud Lee Rau for his public service and receipt of the Citation of Merit by the Fairfax County Federation of Citizens Association. I call upon my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on this distinguished achievement.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the outgoing 2006 Board of Trustees of the Burke Centre Conservancy. The Burke Centre Conservancy is a homeowners' association representing 5,862 homes Burke, Virginia. A planned residential community, Burke Centre is comprised of single family homes, townhouses, condominiums, co-ops, duplexes and quad units. The variety of housing located in Burke Centre provides the conservancy with unique and pressing challenges to ensure the positive livability of the area. The board of trustees is made up of volunteer members of the association elected on an annual basis. Their purpose is to provide services to the membership, and to maintain and protect the common areas and amenities of the association. The board creates and approves a $4,000,000 annual operating budget funded through membership assessments. This board has been particularly active in addressing the most pressing issues facing Burke Centre. Over the past year, they updated the community strategic plan, created a community risk management plan, conducted a stream bank instability study, completed a $250,000 wetlands remediation project, assisted in the creation of a community parking district, completed a bathymetric study of the local ponds to establish maintenance needs and revised regulations associated with the conservancy's employee personnel, investment, and procurement policies. Burke Centre will sorely miss the guidance and leadership of President Greg Smith, Treasurer Phil Pool, Secretary Marc Flaster, Oaks Trustee Joe Berner, and Ponds Trustee Colette Sheldon who retired at the end of the year. The conservancy, however, will remain in good hands under the leadership of recently reelected Vice President Jimi Grande, Woods Trustee Kala Quintana as well as the newly elected members of the board. Madam Speaker, in closing, I wish to commend and congratulate the outgoing board on their exceptional commitment to their community. I call upon my colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2006 Board of Trustees for the Burke Centre Conservancy and in wishing their community continued success in the years to come.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I hadn't intended to come over and speak on this, but the gentleman from Tennessee's eloquence moved me to also add my support for this resolution. I supported it through the committee process. But to also recognize the contributions of the players, the Josh Gibsons, the Buck O'Neals who, because of the bars of segregation at the time, were never allowed to participate in what we now know as the Major Leagues. But this resolution speaks to the fact that their contributions, that their activities and their records are also an important part of American history and of baseball history, and they should be remembered for their contributions. And that is what this resolution does. In their own ways, they are not only great players, great all-stars, great performers, and great athletes, but they also were pioneers. And I am proud to be here to support the gentleman's resolution.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, with so many distractions in our lives today, it is important to take a step back to acknowledge the central role that families play in the development of our Nation's youth. This resolution celebrates those aspects found in a positive family atmosphere which promotes healthy and well-adjusted young men and women. It is true that the children are our future, and the strength of our country has been and will continue to be built on families providing educational, social, ethical and moral guidance to our children. The devotion of time is one of the most important things we can do to help maintain a positive family environment. And while it may be difficult to find time in our hectic schedules, things as simple as playing with educational toys, reading together or visiting an age- appropriate museum will stimulate a child's curiosity that will be beneficial throughout their lives. Also, something as easy as slowing down enough to take the time to listen to one another, maybe by having dinner as a family whenever possible is a time tested way to nurture a child through family participation during their formative years. Young people are increasingly exposed to the stress and pressures of our modern society. In order to combat these negative influences, we must take it upon ourselves, as a society, to expose young people to loving and supporting families whenever possible. As an example, doing a community service project as a family is one of the many ways to teach children that to build a community and to thrive as a society, we should all share in assisting one another. National Children and Families Day provides us an opportunity to recognize our responsibility to create family environments that nurture the next generation and to promote a positive environment for families across America. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Con. Res. 62.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Bailey's Crossroads Rotary Club. The Bailey's Crossroads Rotary Club was chartered on March 12, 1977, under the sponsorship of the Falls Church Rotary Club. The club was known as ``The Early Birds'' due to their 7:30 a.m. Friday meeting time at a Bob's Big Boy restaurant. There were 27 members at the club's onset, which was prior to the approval of female membership. When Rotary International approved membership for women in 1989, the club led the way and was among the first to induct a woman into Rotary. Bailey's Crossroads Rotary Club continues to maintain a focus on the Four Avenues of Service, both internationally and in the local community. The following activities are highlights of the club's service sponsorships: Interact Leadership Club at JEB Stuart High School; ``Family Day''; delivery of Thanksgiving food baskets to the elderly during the holiday season; food and clothing drives to assist the needy; a Rotary Centennial construction project; and consistent support for matching grants projects. Bailey's Crossroads Rotary Club has consistently been a leader in the number of members who are Paul Harris Fellows, having contributed $1,000 or more to the Annual Programs Fund. The club has given a total of $312,000 to the Rotary Foundation since 1977. The Bailey's club is known throughout Rotary District 7610 as the ``Can Do Club'' and has received numerous awards including Outstanding Club. I am proud to have served as 1 of the 29 past presidents, and commend current president, Joseph W. Luquire, for his dynamic leadership and for the excellent reputation of the club. Madam Speaker, in closing, I congratulate Bailey's Crossroads Rotary Club on its continued success and contributions to their community and Nation. On the occasion of their 30th anniversary, I ask my colleagues to join me in acknowledging this outstanding and distinguished organization.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding group of men and women in Northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce annually recognizes individuals who have demonstrated superior dedication to public safety with the prestigious Valor Award. Several members of the Vienna Police Department have earned this highest honor that Fairfax County bestows upon its public safety officials. There are several types of Valor Awards that can be awarded to a public safety officer: the Lifesaving Award, the Certificate of Valor, or the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. It is with great pride that I enter into the record the names of the recipients of the 2007 Valor Awards in the Vienna Police Department. Receiving the Lifesaving Award: Master Police Officer Trent H. Nelson, Sergeant Jamie L. Smith, Police Officer First Class Jarod B. Evans; the Certificate of Valor: Sergeant Michael R. Reeves, Officer Christopher W. Shaver. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the men and women who serve in the Vienna Police Department. Their efforts, made on behalf of the citizens of Fairfax County, are selfless acts of heroism and truly merit our highest praise. I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding this group of remarkable citizens.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding group of men and women in Northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce annually recognizes individuals who have demonstrated superior dedication to public safety with the prestigious Valor Award. Several members of the Fairfax County Police Department have earned this highest honor that Fairfax County bestows upon its public safety officials. There are several types of Valor Awards that can be awarded to a public safety officer: the Lifesaving Award, the Certificate of Valor, or the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. It is with great pride that I enter into the record the names of the recipients of the 2007 Valor Awards in the Fairfax County Police Department. Receiving the Lifesaving Award: Mr. Khalid S. Sheikh; the Certificate of Valor: Sergeant Michael O. Barbazette, Detective Anthony D. Erway, Police Officer First Class Brian A. Gaydos, Detective John P. Keating, Second Lieutenant Christopher C. Cochrane, Police Officer First Class John S. Turner Jr., Police Officer First Class Eric M. Hillebrand, Police Officer First Class Darrell D. Estess; the Gold Medal: Master Police Officer Michael E. Garbarino, Detective Vicky O. Armel, Officer Richard A. Lehr Jr.; the Silver Medal: Master Police Officer Mark P. Dale, Detective Jeffrey W. Andrea, Master Police Officer William C. Horn, Second Lieutenant Boyd F. Thompson Jr.; the Bronze Medal: Police Officer First Class Westley S. Bevan, Lieutenant Stephen J. Thompson, Second Lieutenant Craig C. Copeland, Detective Steven L. Carroll, Police Officer First Class Daniel L. Horton, Master Police Officer Jeffrey K. Rockenbaugh, Master Police Officer Robert D. Patterson, Police Officer First Class James H. Urie, Police Officer First Class Ivan J. Roeske, Public Safety Communicator III Lisa A. Smith, Lieutenant Joseph R. Hill, Police Officer First Class Christopher R. Keaveny, Police Officer First Class David M. Popik, Sergeant Mark J. Smith, Sergeant John G. Sterling, Police Officer First Class Michael A. Wheeler. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the men and women who serve in the Fairfax County Police Department. Their efforts, made on behalf of the citizens of Fairfax County, are selfless acts of heroism and truly merit our highest praise. I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding this group of remarkable citizens.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding group of men and women in Northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce annually recognizes individuals who have demonstrated superior dedication to public safety with the prestigious Valor Award. Several members of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department have earned this highest honor that Fairfax County bestows upon its public safety officials. There are several types of Valor Awards that can be awarded to a public safety officer: the Lifesaving Award, the Certificate of Valor, or the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. It is with great pride that I enter into the record the names of the recipients of the 2007 Valor Awards in the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. Receiving the Lifesaving Award: Firefighter Jason M. Buttenshaw, Firefighter Marc G. Campet; the Certificate of Valor: Firefighter Joshua R. Allen, Master Technician Jerry Smith, Technician John C. Guy, Technician David A. Hessler, Firefighter Clarke V. Slaymaker, Lieutenant Richard S. Slepetz, Firefighter Jason E. Earl, Deputy Chief Jeffrey B. Coffman; the Silver Medal: Captain I Randal L. Bittinger, Master Technician William B. Wheatley, Firefighter Hugh S. Boyle; the Bronze Medal: Captain II Michael R. Smith, Master Technician Randal A. Leatherman, Firefighter Lloyd W. Coburn III, Lieutenant Thomas L. Flint, Lieutenant Bruce A. Neuhaus, Firefighter Ryan J. Ward, Technician Carl E. Jones. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the men and women who serve in the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. Their efforts, made on behalf of the citizens of Fairfax County, are selfless acts of heroism and truly merit our highest praise. I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding this group of remarkable citizens.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding group of men and women in Northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce annually recognizes individuals who have demonstrated superior dedication to public safety with the prestigious Valor Award. Several members of the Herndon Police Department have earned this highest honor that Fairfax County bestows upon its public safety officials. There are several types of Valor Awards that can be awarded to a public safety officer: the Lifesaving Award, the Certificate of Valor, or the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. It is with great pride that I enter into the record the names of the recipients of the 2007 Valor Awards in the Herndon Police Department. Receiving the Lifesaving Award: Senior Sergeant Jerry S. Keys, Corporal Robert A. Galpin, Police Officer First Class Damien C. Austin; the Certificate of Valor: Police Officer First Class Edward E. Stapleton, Detective Lisa A. Kara, Police Officer First Class E. Brian Hamilton, Police Officer First Class Justin P. Dyer. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the men and women who serve in the Herndon Police Department. Their efforts, made on behalf of the citizens of Fairfax County, are selfless acts of heroism and truly merit our highest praise. I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding this group of remarkable citizens.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding group of men and women in Northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce annually recognizes individuals who have demonstrated superior dedication to public safety with the prestigious Valor Award. Two members of the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office have earned this highest honor that Fairfax County bestows upon its public safety officials. There are several types of Valor Awards that can be awarded to a public safety officer: the Lifesaving Award, the Certificate of Valor, or the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. It is with great pride that I enter into the record the names of the recipients of the 2007 Valor Awards in the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office. Receiving the Certificate of Valor: Private First Class Robert L. Perryman; the Bronze Medal: Private First Class Darrell L. Carty. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the men and women who serve in the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office. Their efforts, made on behalf of the citizens of Fairfax County, are selfless acts of heroism and truly merit our highest praise. I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding this group of remarkable citizens.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Chairman, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 800, the Employee Free Choice Act. Today we are considering legislation to strip away a fundamental right for American workers: the secret ballot. Secret ballot elections have long protected workers from intimidation, coercion, and retribution. The National Labor Relations Act of 1947 set in statute a system that gave workers the option of voting by secret ballot when deciding the question of union organization in their workplace. Why, 50 years later, is there a compelling need to do away with the secret ballot system? How is it that a worker will only be given a ``free choice'' by making his or her preference known to all? This isn't about protecting workers; this is about flagging union membership and declining dues. Unions only represent 12 percent of the workforce--only 7 percent in the private sector. Union bosses know they don't fare as well in secret ballot elections as they do in card check elections, so they want to do away with them. Only two months after they regained the majority, the Democrats are here to do the bidding of their union backers. There is no other reason for this debate today. Consider the following letter sent to Mexican officials in 2001. This letter states: . . . the secret ballot is absolutely necessary in order to ensure that workers are not intimidated into voting for a union they might not otherwise choose . . . we feel that the increased use of the secret ballot in union recognition elections will help bring real democracy to the Mexican workplace. This letter was signed by 16 of my Democratic colleagues, including the sponsor of today's bill. Perhaps they have had the benefit of reflection. Madam Chairman, this legislation isn't about helping the working man and woman; it isn't about fairness or discrimination. It is about political payback, it is legislative tribute to the union bosses that still control the Democratic Party. I therefore urge my colleagues to vote against this bill.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, in this debate, our first care should be for the safety and morale of the men and women serving in the American Armed Forces. Whatever the way forward, nothing said here should be heard by friend or foe as disrespect for the work and sacrifice of those who willingly fight our battles in a very dangerous world. It took the United States and coalition forces less than 3 weeks to topple a brutal Iraqi regime that had held an iron grip on power for almost 30 years. Since then, they have battled a growing insurgency and rampant sectarian violence with professionalism and bravery. Of all the instruments of national power we could and should be discussing today, diplomacy, economic policy, intelligence and warfare, our military is the only one that has performed predictably, consistently, and well. Still, knowing what we know today, after almost four years of attempted nation-building on the shifting sands of Iraq, the plan to put 21,000 more Americans in harm's way there has to be viewed with a cold-eyed skepticism born of that hard experience. Putting American troops between feuding Sunni and Shia in the middle of Baghdad, in my judgment, is a mistake. This is the appropriate place for Iraqis, not Americans. The Iraq Study Group concluded that, ``Sustained increases in U.S. troop levels would not solve the fundamental cause of violence in Iraq, which is the absence of national reconciliation.'' They quoted a U.S. general who said that if the Iraqi Government does not make political progress, ``all the troops in the world will not provide security.'' I agree. Like many Members, Republicans and Democrats, I voted for the resolution authorizing President Bush to use force in Iraq, just as I supported President Clinton's decision to take military action against the former Yugoslavia. Four years ago, we were trying to persuade Saddam Hussein to comply with the United Nations resolutions on disarmament and weapons inspections. Only a credible threat of force could possibly convince him that it was finally in his interest to respect the lawful demands of the international community. Voting to support the President strengthened his hand in the diplomatic effort to get the Iraqi regime to comply peacefully. Saddam Hussein chose not to comply, and when diplomacy fails, and military action becomes necessary, politics should stop at the water's edge and every American should stand behind the Commander in Chief. But no grant of authority is a blank check. Today, naive notions about a quick or tidy victory in Iraq have given way to far grittier options on how best to achieve our strategic goals in that nation, in the region, and in the global struggle against Islamic extremism. We want the President to succeed, but we are disappointed our hopes and good intentions for Iraq remain unrealized. Many are frustrated by the mistakes and missed opportunities that plagued this noble but star- crossed effort. Poor planning for occupation and reconstruction of a devastated nation, and missteps by the Coalition Provisional Authority, allowed the insurgency and long-simmering factional hatreds to erupt and to take root. At this point, it seems clear to many that only Iraqi interests, not ours, can be advanced on the streets of Baghdad. U.S. and coalition forces were tasked as protectors of Iraq's hard-won sovereignty, not referees in unchecked sectarian vendettas. From here, the surge looks much more like the status quo on steroids than a serious alternative policy to reach a realistic goal. Some way must be found to cut the Gordian knot that ties us to an Iraq strategy that says we can neither win nor leave. Moreover, so long as American troops are the ones on the ground, taking the fire and being objects for sectarian terrorist hatred, other stakeholders who have more at stake in the region than we will refuse to step forward. But whatever else it might accomplish, this resolution still does not do enough to illuminate a new, sustainable strategy in Iraq. It offers us few alternatives, and I am disappointed in that. The profound and complex issues central to our international position today cannot be reduced to simplistic political statements. We took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution, not just strike poses on how that duty applies to the key questions before us as a Nation. In the end, these are purely political statements, when the debate we really need to have is about the most apolitical subject of all: national security in a time of global peril. Today, the House sends a purely symbolic message to the President. It is a message that will also be heard by our troops, by the Iraqi Government, by the Iraqi people who have relied on us, and by our enemies who are hoping we will quit the fight soon. It does not say enough. We should be debating the elements of an effective policy to stem the tide of jihadism infecting growing swaths of the globe. This resolution says only what some Members are against, nothing about what we are for. The Iraq Study Group report put forth 79 specific recommendations, many focused on the need for far greater engagement of regional powers, friends and foes in taking realistic steps to stabilize Iraq. I joined my colleague, Frank Wolf, in supporting creation of the Iraq Study Group, and I wish he and others were allowed to offer those recommendations for discussion by the House. Those are the debates and the votes I had hoped to participate in today. The lack of substantive alternatives before us, particularly on the question of adequate funding for deployed troops, betrays the majority's empty, conflicted positions on Iraq: against the President, but for nothing. The Senate majority attempted to straddle the same contradictions recently, confirming without dissent the new commanding general for Iraq, while at the same time claiming to be against the very same mission they know he has been ordered to undertake. On the genuine questions of security and strategy in Iraq, we cannot remain, as Winston Churchill admonished, ``decided only to be undecided, resolved to be irresolute, adamant for drift, solid for fluidity, all-powerful to be impotent.'' Mr. Speaker, we must decide, and I have decided, to support this resolution because it is the only option that has been made in order by the majority today to engage the House in formulation of Iraq policy, but once troops are committed by the Commander in Chief and we are engaging the enemy, symbolic gestures like this must confront the more complex realities of how to support those forces in the safe and speedy completion of their mission.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Caressa Cameron for her year of service to the Miss America Organization and Greater Springfield area. Ms. Cameron won the title of Miss Greater Springfield 2006 on February 12, 2006. She has worked tirelessly with the Boys and Girls Club to promote her platform of AIDS awareness through behavior modification in the Northern Virginia area. During her reign, Ms. Cameron made numerous appearances around Springfield, including a gala fundraiser at Greenspring Retirement Community. She also spoke to students at Erving Middle School about ``Right Decisions, Right Now,'' a Miss Virginia program. Last June, Ms. Cameron competed in the Miss Virginia pageant in Roanoke, VA and placed 2nd runner-up. She was then asked to represent Virginia at the National Miss Sweetheart Pageant in Illinois and placed 4th runner-up to Miss National Sweetheart 2006. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to thank Ms. Cameron for representing the Greater Springfield area with great pride and respect. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating her on this distinguished title and in wishing her the best of luck in all future endeavors.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. George B. Gould for over 27 years of dedicated service to the National Association of Letter Carriers, NALC. Since joining NALC in 1979, George has been a legislative consultant involved in numerous issues, such as budget, appropriations, health care, retirement, and education. Through his advocacy, on behalf of the 300,000 members of NALC, George has made great progress on issues affecting postal operations. This progress includes his instrumental work in the creation of NALC's political action fund as well as his work in advancing political freedoms for federal workers through his efforts in reforming the Hatch Act in 1993. During his career, Mr. Gould co-chaired the Coalition to Preserve the Postal Service, a group consisting of representatives from the mailers community, the U.S. Postal Service, the postal supervisors and managers, and postal unions. The coalition worked to secure funds for the anthrax cleanup, to bring Civil Service Retirement System funding to the Postal Service, and to make general postal reforms. Mr. Gould also chaired the Fund for Assuring an Independent Retirement, FAIR, Committee on Legislative and Political Affairs. Representing over 8 million active and retired employees, FAIR fights to protect and enhance Federal employee pensions and other benefits. Mr. Gould has been recognized by Regardie's Magazine on their Power 100 List of the most influential people in Washington. Additionally, he has been featured in Roll Call, The Washington Post, The Washington Times, Legal Times, The Federal Times, and The Boston Globe for his effective and tireless lobbying efforts. Mr. Gould has also received acknowledgement from Project Vote and in 1990 he received the ``Good Guy'' award from the National Women's Political Caucus. It was apparent to all those who worked with George that he had a knack for the policy process and a desire to improve public policy for the Federal employee. Drawing on his years of experience, Mr. Gould went out of his way to be a teacher and mentor to the staff of NALC. As his last act of service, he trained an able replacement to ensure that the ideals and issues important to NALC do not suffer in his absence. Madam Speaker, in closing I would like to commend and congratulate Mr. George B. Gould on all of his accomplishments. His efforts have deeply impacted the public discussion, but more importantly the policy that affects the postal service, truly meriting recognition. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding George for his past accomplishments and in wishing him a happy and healthy retirement.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Edith Edna ``Betty'' Vaughn for a lifetime of service as a health care professional. Born Edith Edna Lunn on November 3, 1945, Betty, as she later preferred to be called, was the only girl of her parents' four children. She became interested in nursing and health care at an early age, often having to look after her brothers. Betty decided to turn this interest into a career when she attended nursing school in 1963. She graduated in 1967 with a diploma of nursing from the University of Essex in England. Betty met her husband, Victor Vaughn, at a hospital dance and married him 1 year later. The Vaughn's moved to Richmond, VA, where Betty began her career at the Johnston-Willis Hospital. In 1974 the Vaughns moved to Blacksburg, VA, where Victor attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Betty continued her career of service working at the local community hospital. Mrs. Vaughn was a dedicated professional during the days and a loving, supportive wife to her husband at night. Upon completion of Mr. Vaughn's education, the family moved to northern Virginia where Betty joined the staff at Fairfax Hospital, today known as INOVA Fairfax Hospital. Betty has been a cheerful, positive employee to the hospital, spreading joy to all patients she encounters. While her retirement is well deserved, she will be greatly missed. Madam Speaker, in closing I would like to commend Mrs. Edith Edna ``Betty'' Vaughn for her lifetime of service. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding Betty for her past accomplishments and in wishing her a happy and healthy retirement.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. G. Martin ``Marty'' Wagner for over 31 years of dedicated service to the Federal government. Through Mr. Wagner's current role as Deputy Commissioner of Federal Acquisition Services, and previously as Acting Commissioner and Acting Deputy Commissioner, he oversaw the acquisition of more than $50 billion of goods and services for various federal agencies. He managed a workforce of more than 4,000 associates who helped the Federal government find, buy and manage all federal non-real estate services. Mr. Wagner led initiatives that set the tone and direction for major changes in government-wide management. He has played a key role in promoting electronic government, in using commercial contracts and approaches, and in putting performance measures into practice. Such initiatives include the creation of FirstGov, the Government's Internet portal; and FedbizOpps, the gateway for all federal procurements. During Mr. Wagner's career he has been honored for his good work and accomplishments as a premier civil servant. Mr. Wagner received the Meritorious Presidential Rank for his career achievements as well as his efforts in leading the administration's effort to reinvent the federal management process. He also received the Distinguished Presidential Rank for his work to improve federal management, specifically the implementation of a new management framework to reflect modem management principles and effective uses of technology. Finally, Mr. Wagner received the General Services Administration's ``Giraffe Award'' for ``sticking his neck out'' and taking risks to improve various GSA programs. These recognitions illustrate the kind of results-oriented federal employee he is. Whether Mr. Wagner was instituting the massive modernization of the federal telecommunications system, establishing improved customer and employee management systems, or taking the simple, personal step of adding Brail to his business cards, Mr. Wagner has always worked to ensure that everyone had improved access to the federal government. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to commend and congratulate Mr. Wagner on all of his achievements. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding Marty for his past accomplishments and in wishing him continued success in the years to come.