Donald Davis

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I recognize the remarkable Alberta Whitaker Parker Newsome, a true gem in the community of Ahoskie, North Carolina. At the impressive age of 100, Ms. Alberta maintains her spunk by exercising 1 hour a day 3 times a week lifting weights at the ECU Health Wellness Center. She actively drives around town and takes great pride, too, in her yard that she beautifully maintains. Here is another secret: She starts the day with a bowl of oatmeal. Her spirited enthusiasm extends to her spiritual life, as well, where she sings in the New Ahoskie Baptist Church choir. She believes in eating right, exercising, and trusting in God. Ms. Alberta is the ideal of longevity and resilience, inspiring us to embrace life with purpose, gratitude, and a zest for living. She truly represents the heart and soul of eastern North Carolina, and we love her.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Kassie Barber, a dedicated teacher at Jamesville Elementary School in Martin County, North Carolina, has worked up the ranks. She has served as a substitute teacher, teacher assistant, and schoolbus driver. Now this school year opening marks her first full year as a third grade teacher. Pursuing her lifelong dream, she returned to college and now follows in her mother's footsteps. Mrs. Barber's passion for her students and for education shines brightly, making her a remarkable example in eastern North Carolina as an emerging school leader. Her mother, Judy, and Memaw instilled in her a deep love for working with children. As her mother now looks over her in Room 115 from above, I wish Mrs. Barber and JES a great school year. Much like her special graduation, may her life continue to grow brighter with each passing day with her students.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize 4-year- old Grayson Ellis from Windsor, North Carolina. Grayson is full of energy and curiosity. In his spare time, he loves baseball and fishing. He learned to count to 50 from playing hide-and-seek. What makes Grayson so special to me is his love for politics and civics. He wanted to meet with his Congressman, so we met. I am sure his mom, Samantha, and dad, Ryan, were proud of him because he even dressed the part, too. Mr. Speaker, young people like Grayson are watching us every single day. Grayson reminds us that we must inspire the next generation, work to open new doors of opportunity, and help every child live the American Dream. I thank Grayson for this reminder.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, my highest priority remains connecting with constituents. I traveled to all 22 counties in NC-01, making over 40 stops and holding over 70 events in August. We hosted seven listening sessions to hear from our constituents, connecting with so many voices in our communities. It was insightful. Many constituents voiced concerns about H.R. 1 and its potential impact on healthcare delivery, especially in our rural areas. Serious discussions took place regarding the future of Martin General Hospital as a vital rural emergency hospital and the need for a farm bill. We wrapped up a productive August welcoming students back to school. I feel genuinely honored to bring the voices of the residents of eastern North Carolina back to Washington, D.C.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to the following comprehensive history of Browntown, and to include in the Record in perpetuity. Physical Location of Browntown In what is known as Browntown, near present-day Snow Hill, located in Greene County, North Carolina, centuries of human presence, resilience, and cultural exchange have shaped the land. Long before Europeans or Africans arrived, the Tuscarora Nation, part of the Iroquoian speaking people, inhabited this region as early as the late 15th and 16th centuries, establishing an Indigenous cultural and agricultural presence along the Contentnea Creek and its trade areas. By the time of European contact in the late 1600s, explorers such as John Lederer had passed through and began to map the area. Followed by John Lawson, whose writings in the early 1700s documented the complexity of community life and culture among the Tuscarora living within the land's boundaries. Although Greene County, originally named Glasgow County formally established in 1791 and renamed Greene County in 1799, its origins were deeply entwined with those of the Tuscarora stronghold of Cotechney, located near what would later become the county seat. As settlers arrived in the early 18th century, they interwove their lives with those of Native Tuscarora through conflict, cooperation, and kinship. The town of Snow Hill, founded in 1828, emerged later in Greene County. Yet, beyond these chartered towns and official records, a different legacy took shape: one of kinship ties, spiritual traditions, and cultural memory of the rural settlement that became known as Browntown. Never incorporated, Browntown emerged as a self-sustaining community built on shared land, interwoven ancestry, and mutual survival. Its roots reflect a unique blend of African, Tuscarora, and European heritage, forming a tri-racial community whose resilience and cultural impact continue to shape Greene County's identity to this day. Browntown lies along ancient Native American trade routes and waterways, connecting to Contentnea Creek, located just south at a distance of 2-3 miles, and near the Neuse River, approximately 7-10 miles away. Browntown took form as a significant settlement and hunting area for the Tuscarora, located less than 10 miles away from the final, most decisive battle of the Tuscarora War in 1713 at Fort Neoheroka. Browntown is also home to several blended cemeteries, including at least one known unmarked Indigenous burial ground, as well as unmarked slave graves and colonial and antebellum burial sites. The presence of these sacred sites, ranging from Native burial grounds to unmarked family plots and church cemeteries, reflects the deeply intertwined histories of the people who once lived and blended on this land. Browntown also sits near the intersection of North Carolina Highways 11 and 13, which connect to Indian Woods to the North in Bertie County. Indian Woods was the Tuscarora Reservation established in 1717 after the Tuscarora War, which also contained blended people. Essential highways, such as Routes 58 and 70, once served as key routes for both Indigenous nations, like the Tuscarora, and later colonial settlers. Browntown runs parallel to Highway 258, a route constructed initially by the British for trade between Eastern NC and Southeast Virginia. It is where the descendants of tri-racial communities continue to live, such as those in the Winton Triangle of Hertford County. These trading paths were and still are conduits for agricultural exchange, tribal passageways, and rural resettlement areas before and after emancipation. Browntown in the Making Browntown in modern times has been a part of Hookerton Township, which lies within a deeply historical corridor that connects the lived experiences of tri-racial descendants throughout eastern North Carolina. The Browntown Community stands as a living testament to the enduring spirit of people of tri-racial heritage. Forged not by municipal charter but by the shared tenacity of descendants from African, European, and Tuscarora people of rural eastern North Carolina. Browntown's legacy is one of resilience and unity. Established as a free, autonomous, and safe haven before and after the Civil War, it was home to pioneers of land stewardship and mutual aid, all woven together by distinct cultures into a thriving, mixed-rural community. The Browntown community is also not far from Wheat Swamp, as the wooded wetlands offered natural seclusion for worship and reflection during antebellum times. This uncharted settlement, born outside the boundaries of conventional towns, cultivated a unique social fabric that honored mixed people while cherishing common purpose. Place of Worship and Study Before the formalization of land deeds and property holdings in Browntown, the people came together to worship. Although not located in Browntown, Shady Grove Church is closely linked to the community's history and identity, as it was the first organized church established nearby as a place of worship near Hookerton Town in Greene County. Shady Grove Church is the oldest known church serving people of mixed race in the community, established in 1867 as a bush shelter (a bush arbor) made of leaves and branches to offer shade during worship. Considered the mother church, Shady Grove gave rise to several churches, reflecting its profound spiritual influence. The founding landowners Ellis Dixon, Ellis Suggs, Lewis Dunn, Squire Turnage, and Ephraim Dixon laid the groundwork for faith-based resilience in post-Civil War Greene County. It is located approximately 6 to 9 miles from Browntown. Shady Grove church represents the early roots of communal worship that would later continue within Browntown itself through Brown Chapel, Oak Grove, McCoy's Chapel Church, and other churches in the community. Established in 1899 and formally deeded by Richard Brown in 1918. The creation of this church further cemented the community's spiritual legacy. As a central landholder and patriarch of the Browntown community, by deeded land ``for church purposes only'' to the United America Free Will Baptist Church, Brown Chapel, later known as Brown Chapel. This land, situated along the public road from Brown's Crossroads to Glenfield Road and near the cemetery road, served as sacred ground for religious practices, fellowship, and ancestral remembrance. The deed signed and witnessed on February 28, 1918, represents one of the earliest documented acts of faith-based land transfer by a mixed landowner in the county, reinforcing the continuity of spiritual life that began at Shady Grove and anchoring a new generation of worship in Browntown's evolving identity. Additionally, Browntown School served as an educational center for generations of children in this rural tri-racial community. Though no longer standing, the school's memory lives on through oral history and preserved photographs. Its foundation may remain buried on the original site, offering future potential for archaeological or cultural recovery. Browntown School was more than a building; it represented self-determination, literacy, and intergenerational legacy during a time when rural education for African American and mixed, heritage children was underfunded and overlooked by formal systems. Its presence reinforces the longstanding footprint of Browntown residents in shaping Greene County's educational and civic landscape. Living Summary of Browntown A living testament to the complexity of North Carolina's and America's rural past, it includes Richard Brown, a cornerstone figure in Browntown's development. Born in 1852, to formerly enslaved or free parents, after living through Emancipation and Reconstruction, a photograph taken of him highlights a prominent figure. It captures not just his face but also his determination. Born just before the Civil War, Richard would raise a family amid the struggles of Reconstruction and segregation, passing on values of land stewardship and kinship. His daughter, Annie Jane Jones (1884-1950), and her marriage to John C. Grant (1878-1936), represent the enduring lineage that remained on the land. Browntown stood as a sanctuary for those born of blended lineages, offering dignity where societal bonds of rigid racial hierarchies were enduring. Historical records document Browntown's origins, at least, as far back as 1880. A warranty deed executed in 1887 by Chappel H. Churchill and M.E. Churchill, transferring land in Hookerton Township to William Brown, born in 1874, an African American landowner whose wife, Addie Grant Brown, born in 1881, to Needham Grant, 1845, of mixed ancestry, symbolizes remarkable self- determination during the post-Reconstruction era. The records for Greene County confirm that members of the Brown family legally held property in the area now known as Browntown. This deed serves as tangible evidence of landownership by a mixed, heritage family during an era when such claims were not only rare but often met with resistance. Unlike chartered townships, Browntown emerged as a self- defined community operating outside formal governance but deeply rooted in traditions of kinship, survival, and cultural unity. The legal documentation, when paired with oral histories passed down through generations, affirms that Browntown was not a place imagined but a living, land-based community that sustained itself through shared heritage, mutual protection, and pride in place. The Act of Preservation The Browntown Annual Community Picnic is a living act of preservation. For over 300 years, people and families of Tuscarora, African, and European descent have lived in this community in Greene County. The people return to honor their lineages, which shaped a rural community that continues to unite in celebration of a shared heritage, family ties, and collective memory. Preserving traditional foods, stories, and customs that contribute to the culture of Greene County and the State of North Carolina, the Annual Community Picnic is a living tradition that stands as both a homecoming and a cultural archive. This gathering is more than a reunion; it is an act of generational memory, where traditional foods, stories, and customs are passed down under the shade of longleaf pines. Generations in Browntown have thrived by blending traditions, celebrating lived experiences, and fostering a sense of belonging that transcends historical significance. Special Thanks A special thank you to the many groups and people whose contributions helped capture history and now are living history to Browntown. Dr. Arwin Smallwood--for his writing, research insight, and peer review guidance, enriching this work with scholarly depth and cultural integrity. Mr. Earl Ijmes--for his historical consultation, community storytelling, and grounding wisdom that shaped our understanding of the past. The 2025 Browntown Picnic Planning Committee: Mona Warren, Sharon Bright, Shaniqua Jones, and David Brown--for their tireless coordination, vision, and commitment to honoring tradition and bringing our people together. Penny Wade, Lucy Suggs, Arlena Brown, Helen Scott, and Reginald Sutton--for their historical fact-checking and family research, your voices carry the weight and beauty of generations. Billy Dale, Ruffus Grant, Dorris Speight--for nourishing the community with love and generosity, and who made the 2025 picnic day itself possible through food, fellowship, and celebration. Steven Dale--for sharing his gift of music and creating the joyful rhythm that tied the day together with pictures. The Greene County Board of Commissioners: Chairman Bennie Heath, Commissioners Jerry Jones, Ray Johnson, Robert (Bobby) Taylor, Jr., Derek Burress, and former Commissioner James Shackleford--for officially recognizing Browntown and passing the community resolution. Their leadership and support help ensure the story is appreciated. Kathy Mooring, Deputy Clerk to the Board--for her administrative coordination and professionalism. lgnacia Joyner--At the heart of this initiative, formally launched the Browntown Legacy effort to safeguard the cultural and historical identity of this tri- cultural community. Her leadership galvanized community collaboration, garnering recognition at both the county and federal levels as a contributing preservation Author and Community Historian.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the service of Richard ``Doc'' Borcicky, a Vietnam war veteran and constituent of North Carolina's First Congressional District. A native of Rocky Mount, North Carolina, Doc has dedicated his life to selfless sacrifice. After enlisting in the Marine Corps as a hospital corpsman 3rd class, Doc flew into the heart of danger to execute medevac helicopter support missions. Flown by an exceptionally skilled and resilient crew consisting of a pilot, copilot, crew chief, two gunners, and a skilled, combat-trained Navy corpsman, medevac helicopter support personnel volunteered to fly these missions anywhere, anytime, 7 days a week. In August of 1969, Doc, a 19-year-old, deployed to Da Nang. Almost instantly, marines stationed there came under heavy artillery and rocket fire, but Doc stood tall, going on to fly 250 combat support missions over 12 months outside the wire. Amidst the fog of war, Doc and his fellow marines sought refuge where they could. At the Sacred Heart Orphanage in Da Nang, Doc spent time with forgotten children, many of whom had fathers who had served alongside him. Doc captured one such kid on camera. His name was Kirk Kellerhals. After being adopted by a U.S. Army veteran, Kirk came to America. In 2017, when he learned of his past, he met the man who had volunteered at his orphanage to escape the tragedy of war. Through it all, Doc touched the lives of not only these children but of countless servicemembers wounded in battle who never knew his name. His story shines a light on the forgotten heroes of one of the most consequential conflicts in world history, and it reminds us that all those who have served are deserving of our everlasting gratitude. When they returned home, Vietnam veterans did not receive a hero's welcome as their parents and grandparents had following the world wars. Instead, their service went unnoticed, unappreciated, and unknown. By taking the time to honor their patriotism and sacrifice, especially of those whose responsibility it was to save the lives of servicemembers wounded in battle, we are taking one step toward righting that wrong. In the end, it was former Marine Corps Commandant General Chapman who best summarized what helicopter support meant to marines on the ground in Vietnam proclaiming: ``When a marine in Vietnam is wounded, surrounded, hungry, low on ammunition or water, he looks to the sky. He knows the choppers are coming . . . `'

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Browntown in Greene County, North Carolina. The community dates back more than two centuries, and it has a rich history. Browntown embodies the enduring contributions of African Americans, indigenous people, and European families who built and sustained it through many generations. The land belonged to the Tuscarora Nation and later became a refuge for blended families who worked the land, worshiped together, and educated their children despite obstacles. Many will unite in August for the Browntown Community Day which brings neighbors and descendants together to honor their ancestors, preserve their traditions, and inspire future generations. Madam Speaker, I am glad to celebrate this community as a part of the American story and commend their contributions to Greene County, our State, and our Nation.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Bost and Representative Takano for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2625, the Veterans Employment Readiness Yield Act of 2025. On behalf of the more than 56,000 veterans in North Carolina's First Congressional District, which I am proud to represent, and so many across our country, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this commonsense legislation. I thank the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Ciscomani), who co-led the bill. I also thank the House Committee on Veterans' Affair for marking it up and moving it forward. Lastly, I thank the Disabled American Veterans and Paralyzed Veterans of America for endorsing this legislation. H.R. 2625 amends terminology in the Veteran Readiness and Employment program to replace the term ``employment handicap'' with ``employment barrier'' and the term ``serious employment handicap'' with ``serious employment barrier,'' while, most importantly, leaving the definitions unchanged. The Veteran Readiness and Employment program helps former servicemembers find jobs and ensure their mental and financial well- being are intact. Updating the terminology will improve efficiency and encourage veterans to use the Veteran Readiness and Employment program. No veteran should have any discomfort advocating for themselves and seeking help for their service-connected disabilities. We will continue to stay in this fight until every disabled veteran has what they need to get the assistance they have earned. On behalf of a grateful nation, we can honor those who have given life and limb to serve by passing the VERY Act. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to do exactly that, and I thank the chair and the ranking member for yielding time.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Trey Cash, the economic development director for Greene and Lenoir Counties, whose leadership secured over 600 acres of prime land for industrial development, paving the way for job growth and investment opportunities in rural North Carolina. The North Carolina Economic Development Association named Trey the 2025 Emerging Leader of the Year, North Carolina's highest honor for a young economic developer. Trey is the first recipient of this distinguished award from any county east of I-95. His leadership has enhanced public-private partnerships and advanced workforce readiness. As a dedicated father, Trey works daily to ensure that his daughter, Celia, and all young people like her have the chance to live the American Dream in eastern North Carolina. He is tireless in his commitment to keeping young professionals and the next generation in the east.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Pasquotank County Emergency Medical Services for earning their prestigious 2025 Best in Category Award for Health from the National Association of Counties. Out of 157 entries, Pasquotank County EMS was recognized as one of the best health programs in the country and the only winner from North Carolina. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Pasquotank County EMS, like many counties, faced a serious shortage of paramedics and emergency safety workers. In response, they developed an innovative tiered response system allowing ambulances to quickly respond to emergencies while paramedics provided essential support when needed, improving their service, making it faster and more efficient. Pasquotank County EMS is a shining example of hard work, innovation, and dedication. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate each and every one on this remarkable honor.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3633, known as the CLARITY Act. I am honored to serve as a co-lead on this legislation, alongside Chairman Thompson, Chairman Hill, Ranking Member Craig, Subcommittee Chair Johnson, and so many others who came to the table in good faith to get this done. Let me also take a moment to thank the staff, both the majority and the minority staff. They put in so many hours working on this. I know I was up late one night. It was probably midnight. I really commend the team. They helped work on a very complex issue here that is before us and to help shape a bipartisan product that reflects the seriousness of the moment. This bill reflects compromise, collaboration, and months of work to craft the regulatory framework that meets the moment, because the truth is, we can't afford to fall behind. Right now we are at a crossroad. The digital asset industry is growing, evolving, changing the way people around the world engage with financial markets and emerging technologies. Without a clear regulatory structure in place, we are seeing innovation move overseas not because our talent isn't here, but because the rules aren't here. The CLARITY Act provides us with an opportunity then to change that, to lead, to establish thoughtful and balanced guardrails that support innovation, protect consumers, and foster confidence in our markets. You see disclosures and reports dealing with so many provisions, antifraud, manipulation. You can't commingle funds. But let me be clear: The bill isn't perfect. I have been vocal about that, too. I remain concerned about the absence of meaningful conflict-of- interest provisions dealing with the executive branch. It doesn't matter who occupies the White House. The bottom line is, whoever is in the White House, we need clear standards that ensure public trust is never compromised. I also remain concerned about adequate resources for the CFTC. Yes, I acknowledge this bill provides more flexibility to deal with hiring, but we also need to see more resources because we are asking the CFTC to take on a major role here. The Speaker pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. In the 118th Congress, we passed FIT21 with overwhelming bipartisan support. The CLARITY Act builds on this work. Let's pass the CLARITY Act and send a strong message to the American people and the world that the United States will lead in building a forward-looking digital economy. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the following obituary of Charles P. Gaylor, III. Charles P. Gaylor, III Obituary Charles ``Charlie'' Parson Gaylor, III, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated servant to the Goldsboro community, passed away on July 1, 2025, at the age of 75. Born and raised in Goldsboro, North Carolina, Charlie was the son of the late Judge Charles P. Gaylor, Jr. and the late Councilwoman Mildred Ellis Gaylor. A lifelong resident of the city he so passionately served, Charlie's legacy is deeply woven into the civic, legal, and cultural fabric of Wayne County. Charlie graduated from Goldsboro High School in 1967 before earning a double Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He went on to receive his Juris Doctor from the Delaware Law School of Widener University in Wilmington, Delaware. Charlie practiced law in Goldsboro from 1977 to 2008 and went on to serve with distinction as a District Court Judge from 2009 to 2022. Even in retirement, he continued to serve as a recalled judge. His professional and civic contributions were extensive and impactful. He held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including serving as Chair of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce and the Wayne County Economic Development Commission. He also served as the inaugural Chair of the Wayne County Development Alliance. Charlie was a dedicated member of the Wayne County Bar Association, North Carolina State Bar, and North Carolina Bar Association. He was also an avid supporter and past board member of the Foundation of Wayne Community College, the Arts Council of Wayne County, the Wayne County Public Library Foundation, the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corporation, the Wayne County Historic Association, the Military Affairs Committee of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, and the Goldsboro Civitan Club. Charlie was passionate about historic preservation and cultural enrichment, having served as President of the Historic Preservation Society of North Carolina and as a tour guide for the Goldsboro Union Station Project. His efforts were pivotal in safeguarding the architectural and historical heritage of the region. He also dedicated his time and leadership to a broad array of community initiatives--rom small business development and civic education to passenger rail service advocacy and military appreciation events. Notably, he co-chaired the 1976 Wayne County Bicentennial ``Town Forum'' series alongside his wife, Rhonda. Among his many accolades, Charlie was honored with the Jaycees Distinguished Service Award, the Exchange Club Book of Golden Deeds Award, the Gertrude S. Carraway Award of Merit, and the prestigious Cannon Cup from the North Carolina Division of Cultural Resources. He was also the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corporation and was inducted into the North Carolinian Society, an honor reserved for individuals who have rendered distinguished service to the state. Charlie was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Goldsboro, where he found spiritual grounding and community fellowship. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Rhonda McDonald Gaylor; his son, Charles P. Gaylor, IV and daughter- in-law, Sarah Gaylor; and his cherished grandson, Charles ``Charlie'' Gaylor, V. A celebration of Charlie's life will be held Monday, July 7 at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Goldsboro. The family will receive friends following the service in the church's activity center. A private burial for the family will take place at Willow Dale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 1101 E. Ash Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530 or the charity of one's choice. Charlie Gaylor's life was one of selfless devotion--to justice, to heritage, to education, and to the people and places he held dear. His legacy lives on in the institutions he shaped, the community he strengthened, and the countless lives he touched through a lifetime of committed service.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize an inspiring young leader from Gates County, North Carolina, Jonah Dickerson. Jonah earned the Congressional Gold Medal award after dedicating over 400 hours of volunteer service, hosting soccer clinics for children and supporting students of Buckland Elementary School. He is a proud East Carolina University Pirate and honors college student. Jonah studies geographic information sciences and applies his skills at Sound Rivers, protecting our precious waterways in the East. Alongside his brother Cole, Jonah has coauthored two research papers, one on low-cost buoy systems for geographic education and another advancing UAV tracking accuracy. Mr. Speaker, Jonah reminds us that our service can uplift and inspire an entire community. He truly represents the best of eastern North Carolina. We are so proud to honor him and look forward to what the future holds.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I honor the remarkable life of Charles Parson Gaylor, III, a distinguished district court judge, lifelong Goldsboro resident, and devoted servant. Charlie embodied compassion in his work, striking a balance between firmness and fairness. He enforced strict rules about cell phones in his courtroom. Yet, he approached the bench with such gentleness and care. His passion for life was evident in his deep love for his family, his genuine appreciation for history, and his fascination with old cars. For more than 15 years, I was fortunate to call Charlie my friend. His memorial service was a testament to the lives he touched. Many friends, family, and colleagues gathered at his beloved First Presbyterian Church. For 52 years, Charlie was a steadfast partner to his wife, Rhonda. Mayor Gaylor, his son, should always remember: Get in, get out. Sarah and Charlie brought him great joy. I send my deepest condolences to them both.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, over the past week, I had the opportunity to spend a day in Hertford County. During my visit, I connected with local leaders, business leaders, and workers at Alfiniti and Nucor. I also spoke with participants in a 4-H summer program as well as compassionate clergy and residents. My visit to The Gathering Place, which operates a food pantry, was moving. While in Hertford County, I engaged in meaningful conversation with the dedicated employees of the Hertford County Department of Social Services. They shared valuable insights about the potential impacts of H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, on the hardworking families and the community they tirelessly serve. I commend this remarkable and professional team for prioritizing the families in their care and encourage all Members to visit their local departments of social services. It is vital that we prioritize the hardworking families in eastern North Carolina, especially those who count on programs like Medicaid and SNAP without abusing them. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand with the people of Hertford County and eastern North Carolina.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize William Horne, affectionately known as ``Bus Dad.'' After an impressive 51 years behind the wheel of a schoolbus dedicated to transporting exceptional children within Wilson County Public Schools, Mr. Horne has recently entered a well-deserved retirement. Mr. Horne was more than just a schoolbus driver. He was devoted to his students and their families. He warmly welcomed each child onto his bus every morning, making sure they were ready for school. His bus was more than just a mode of transportation. It was a safe haven. Mr. Horne's dedication exemplifies a great American story highlighting the essence of public service: impactful, consistent, and full of love and compassion. I thank Mr. Horne for his extraordinary commitment to his students over the decades. His legacy will remain with those he has touched, and I wish him a wonderful retirement.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to highlight the voices of our local farmers. During a tour of Brown Family Farms and Produce, we met with fourth- generation farmer Patrick Brown, former United States Representative Eva Clayton, a group of local farmers, agricultural leaders, and advocates to discuss the future of farming in eastern North Carolina. Brown Family Farms was established in 1865 and is a family-run operation rooted in rich tradition and innovation. During the tour, we discussed the challenges farmers are facing and the importance of passing the farm bill. Our farmers deserve to be heard. Their voices must guide us to meet the needs of the American people.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise and recognize five outstanding young leaders from eastern North Carolina who have earned appointments to our Nation's service academies. Abel Dees and Parker Stokes are headed to the United States Military Academy. Leo Fletcher-Fontana will attend the United States Air Force Academy. Nicholas Santiago and Dylan Sawyer are bound for the United States Naval Academy. These remarkable young leaders have achieved academic excellence. They reflect the best of our communities and are answering the call that goes way beyond themselves. Behind each of them is a community of supporters and families whose love is making it possible for them. Mr. Speaker, to our appointees: Abel, Parker, Leo, Nicholas, and Dylan, eastern North Carolina believes in them and we are proud of them.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the United States Air Force, truly the greatest, as we have seen over and over and over again. To ensure our status as the strongest and most effective Air Force in the world, it is imperative that we invest in a highly mission-capable fleet of frontline fighter jets. That is why I have introduced H.R. 4027, the Frontline Fighter Force First Act. The legislation mandates that we prioritize combat-coded fighters, evaluating both the immediate and future needs of vital fighters like the F-15E Strike Eagle at places such as Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and Next Generation Air Dominance. Air power and superiority are must-have assets in modern warfare, which is why I call upon my colleagues in Congress to pass the Frontline Fighter Force First Act without delay.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Juneteenth and the communities across eastern North Carolina who celebrated with joy, unity, and meaningful reflection. From Wilson to Columbia and Goldsboro to Rocky Mount, there was wonderful dancing with Boots on the Ground and plenty of delicious food and spirited singing. Residents came together as a community to celebrate freedom, an American value. I thank every organizer and volunteer who helped make these events possible. I also thank all who participated and especially our youth. Mr. Speaker, we were able to honor the past and renew our commitment to a more prosperous future.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the historic 2025 graduating class of Martin County High School. The proud Gators made history with their first graduation since the unification of South Creek High School and Riverside High School. The Gators had their first outdoor graduation ever in the swamp. There were hugs, smiles, dancing, chest bumps, and even tears. A touching moment was when Jaden Wiggins' parents accepted his diploma. Only weeks before he was due to graduate, he was tragically killed in a vehicle accident. Yet, his memory remains with his classmates. The graduation exercise not only ended with the turning of the tassels but also an amazing fireworks demonstration. The spirit of unity was incredible. I congratulate the parents, teachers, education support professionals, administrators, school board, community, and, above all, the students. I congratulate the class of 2025.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heavy heart to honor the remarkable life and legacy of Dr. Richard Eakin, who dedicated 14 years of his life as Chancellor of East Carolina University. Dr. Eakin was my mentor, my instructor, and my dear friend. He inspired me to pursue a doctoral degree in education, and I will always be grateful for that. Dr. Eakin was one of the most compassionate and insightful leaders I have ever known. He earned his B.A. in math from Geneva College and his M.A. and Ph.D. in math from Washington State University. Before his time at East Carolina University, he held several administrative positions at Bowling Green State University. He did all of this while always wearing an infectious smile. His gentle, yet impactful approach, left a mark on Pirate Nation and everyone who learned from him. My heartfelt prayers are with his wonderful wife, Jo, and their family.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I honor a remarkable public servant and friend, Efton Sager. Efton served in the United States Air Force, retiring as a master sergeant. His commitment to our community was evident in all the active roles he played, including serving on the Wayne County Board of Commissioners. When he served in the North Carolina House of Representatives, we took great pride in representing Wayne County together. Throughout the years, we kept in touch, and there were many cherished memories. For one, I recall how heartbroken Efton was when his beloved wife, Delores, passed after 68 years of marriage. He said to me: ``I hope God doesn't keep me here for too many years without her.'' It brings comfort believing they are together again. Efton passed peacefully on May 27. Today would have marked his 92nd birthday. I extend my heartfelt condolences to Debra, David, and the family as we honor Efton's life and lasting impact.

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina

Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I honor the remarkable life of Bronis Avent, an American hero. He bravely served in World War II and over the course of two other conflicts. At 101 years old, I had the privilege of meeting him and expressing my gratitude for his incredible military service. His daughter shared that her father had missed many milestones due to his overseas military service and that day was the first time she witnessed him being publicly honored. It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that just hours later Mr. Avent passed away peacefully, surrounded by his beloved family. My thoughts and prayers are with: his children, Ann, Calvin, and Bronis Jr.; his special cousin Dr. John Avent; and his many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren. Meeting him was a true honor, and being able to pay tribute to his legacy and present him with the American flag will remain a cherished memory forever.