Jake Ellzey

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Montana (Mr. Rosendale).

Mr. ELLZEY. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I come before the House of Representatives to discuss the newest and best version of the PACT Act before us today. Putting the needs of our veterans first is something we can all agree on. On March 3, the House passed a version of the PACT Act that was unworkable and unaffordable. At that time, I joined my colleagues in calling for negotiations and refinements that would best help the veterans and gain bipartisan support, and I voted ``no'' on that original bill. The bill that we have before us today is the result of those long and difficult negotiations. This version of the bill reinforces why I opposed it during the initial passage. When we work together and put the well-being of veterans above partisan politics, we get a workable, effective bill that will save the lives of those who have given so much for us. It is not a perfect bill. There remains language, including the costs and mandatory spending that are somewhat troubling, but I am confident that we will be vigilant about carrying out our oversight of the implementation of those provisions and the spending associated with them. I also call on the moneys moved to mandatory spending be moved back to discretionary when we take back the majority. America's veterans who were exposed to toxins during their voluntary military service in combat to preserve America's liberty and freedoms will finally receive the healthcare and benefits they need. I support this legislation because it requires the VA to contact every single veteran who filed a claim for benefits that related to toxic exposure but had the claim originally denied, allowing them to refile their claim. I support this legislation because it expands the screening of possible toxic exposure to every veteran receiving VA care. America's obligation to our veterans is best conveyed by the words of Abraham Lincoln: ``To care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan.'' Madam Speaker, I urge all Members to vote in favor of the amendments to H.R. 3967.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, the United States is home to the most remarkable people in the world. We are the most caring, giving, and united country that has ever existed. But that is not the outlook we see daily in the news and on social media. Big traditional and social media outlets would have you convinced that Americans don't help each other. The algorithms used by these companies are designed to show controversy and to lead you to believe that there is more divisiveness in our society than harmony. But that is not true. Since being elected to Congress, I have seen firsthand that the Texas Sixth Congressional District is home to many remarkable people; so much so that each week my office sends out dozens of recognition letters highlighting some of their achievements. While in Washington, D.C., I have had the incredible opportunity to work with countless individuals, a lot of whom deserve the highest praise for their service to the American people. To be clear: These individuals I am referencing do not just make up my own party but also those across the aisle. Bipartisanship is alive and well up here, and I am proud to say that I am surrounded by like-minded individuals on both sides of the aisle who have dedicated their lives to public service, working tirelessly for the betterment of the American people. Growing up back home in Perryton, Texas, my pastor would start off every Sunday service with what he called ``Joys and Concerns.'' During this time, he would highlight some of the remarkable things that members of the church were doing and some prayer requests, to unite us as a congregation to pray for our community and those in need. I will give my own version of ``Joys and Concerns.'' Let's start with the joys. These upstanding constituents deserve to be recognized: I start by congratulating the valedictorians and salutatorians for the 2021-2022 school year. From Mansfield High School: Valedictorian, Kara Bell, and Salutatorian, Nicholas Bindel. From Mansfield Lake Ridge High School: Valedictorian, Angela Morka, and Salutatorian, Hailey Chuong. From Mansfield Legacy High School: Valedictorian, Ruth Oyerokun, and Salutatorian, Kennedy Ruhland. From Mansfield Summit High School: Valedictorian, John Weaver, and Salutatorian, Anthony Truong. From Mansfield Timberview High School: Valedictorian, Vanessa Bell, and Salutatorian, Yousef Ali. From Mansfield Early College High School: Valedictorian, Ruby Lima Gallegos, and Salutatorian, Mary Oshoba. From Corsicana High School: Valedictorian, Libby Green, and Salutatorian, Addie Owen. From Blooming Grove High School: Valedictorian, Kinley Skaines, and Salutatorian, Kamryn Brown. From Ennis High School: Valedictorian, Victoria Berry, and Salutatorian, Mason Gilb. From Ferris High School: Valedictorian, Brianna Brodin, and Salutatorian, Hayden Hartman. From Italy High School: Valedictorian, Rushton Trees, and Salutatorian, Bryant Haake. From Waxahachie High School: Valedictorian, Niki Holmberg, and Co- salutatorians, Lillie Loose and Elena Rojas. I would like to point out that Lillie is the daughter of my district director, Julie Loose. From Waxahachie Global High School: Valedictorian Preston Hoggard, and Salutatorian, Alexis Trojan. From Midlothian High School: Valedictorian, Katelynn Zimmerman, and Salutatorian, Avalon YungHung Mitchell. From Midlothian Heritage High School: Valedictorian, Cooper Lucas, and Salutatorian, Sterling Martinez. From Red Oak High School: Valedictorian, Saadi El-Saadi, and Salutatorian, Elise Davis. From Palmer High School: Valedictorian, Alexandria Holmes, and Salutatorian, Neyda Perez. From Rice High School: Valedictorian, Nadhia Abreu, and Salutatorian, Laisha Perez. From Avalon High School: Valedictorian, Savanna Bacak, and Salutatorian, Ilene Ferman. From Kennedale High School: Valedictorian, Brian Flores, and Salutatorian, Kenaj Washington. From Maypearl High School: Valedictorian, Aaron Jett, and Salutatorian, Josey Austin. From Mildred High School: Valedictorian, Alejandro Tamez, and Salutatorian, Amanda Hawkins. From Milford High School: Valedictorian, Lillian Martin, and Salutatorian, Joshua Martin. From Arlington High School: Valedictorian, Adessa Segura, and Salutatorian, Alison Buer. From Arlington Bowie High School: Valedictorian, Angelina Nguyen, and Salutatorian, Whiton Nguyen. From Arlington Lamar High School: Valedictorian, Ashvi Patel, and Salutatorian, Haley Wehr. From Arlington Martin High School: Co-valedictorians, Jennifer Uyen Tho Nguyen and Heather Van Waasbergen, and Salutatorian, Christopher Dao. From Arlington Seguin High School: Valedictorian, Nhi Dinh, and Salutatorian, Linh Vu. Again, congratulations on your remarkable achievement. I look forward to seeing what each one of you accomplishes in the coming years. I also want to acknowledge the 12 outstanding young men and women we have from the Sixth Congressional District who have received and accepted appointments to our service academies. For the United States Naval Academy we have: Ethan Clarke and Jazmin Lemus. For the United States Air Force Academy: Seth Ramsey, Destiny Speltz, Carson Yingling, Lauren St. Clair, Oluwakorede Oylalami, Megan Fellows, and Jaiden Lanier. For the United States Military Academy at West Point: Vinh Ho and Charlotte Patterson. For the United States Merchant Marine Academy: Anthony Schmidt. Next, I want to recognize members of our community who have gone above and beyond. Let's start with Officer Rebecca Pevehouse. Madam Speaker, I congratulate Rebecca on her recent appointment as a field training officer in the Red Oak Police Department. I also recognize Rebecca for being awarded Enforcement Hero by MADD North Texas. The hard work Rebecca puts forth to keep our community safe has not gone unnoticed. I thank Rebecca for all that she does. It is an honor to recognize Priscilla Sanchez for more than 16 years of public service in the Mansfield community. Her outstanding performance as a senior code compliance inspector and then as the volunteer coordinator has helped strengthen the relationship between the residents and community members. I congratulate Connie Hickman on her retirement from Precinct 4 Justice of the Peace in Navarro County. It is an honor to recognize her for her nearly 40 years of public service to her community. I welcome Chris Young and congratulate him on his new position as an assistant fire chief for the city of Red Oak. I congratulate Darrell Hull on his recent new position as the city manager for Kennedale. Darrell brings a wealth of experience, and he previously served a 25-year career in Kennedale. The city of Kennedale is fortunate to have him in this position. Michael Watson is a sophomore at Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie, Texas. He led SAGU's baseball team to a 38-16 finish and was named this year's NCAA National Pitcher of the Year. Congratulations to Michael and the team for their outstanding work and achievements. Next, let me highlight the Eagle Scouts. To become an Eagle Scout takes years of dedication and hard work. To achieve this rank, Scouts must complete 18 hours of community service and demonstrate leadership within their troop. Only 5 percent of Scouts reach the rank of Eagle Scout. This year, Ethan Miller reached that goal. I congratulate him. It is an honor to recognize Master Sergeant Roger Hardie for his 15- plus years of service in education in the Corsicana community. His outstanding performance as the Air Force JROTC instructor has helped strengthen the relationship between our students and community members. I thank him for his service. Ashley Perkins has been working as an emergency medical dispatcher in Mansfield for several years, and in 2021, she was named Emergency Medical Dispatcher of the Year. I thank Ashley for her continued service to the Mansfield community. I congratulate Fox Luu on his new position as chief of police in Richland. Luu has been serving his community as a first responder for many years, and I am confident he will do so for many years to come. I congratulate Zoey Burt on starting her new position as sergeant in the Maypearl ISD Police Department. Ron Appleton has been well known in his community since 1966. He started out as an ag teacher at Waxahachie ISD and worked his way to district administration. I personally congratulate Ron on having the Ron Appleton Agriscience Facility in Waxahachie named after him. It is a beautiful facility, and the impact Ron has had on his students is immeasurable. I thank him for all that he has done. Chantell Reiper was awarded Employee of the First Quarter from Navarro Regional Hospital for 2022. This award is a tribute to her courageous and selfless acts working in healthcare. I truly appreciate all the work that Chantell does in physician practice and women's services. I personally congratulate Fred Pontley on his retirement from being a distinguished lieutenant of the Ennis Police Department. It is an honor to recognize him for his 25 years of public service to the people of Ennis. This year marks the 75th anniversary of Navarro College. What started out in 1946 with a group of returning veterans from World War II has now become a pillar in the community not only in Corsicana but also in Waxahachie. From the first class dubbed as the ``barracks bunch'' to the students who graduated this year, Navarro College is dedicated to serving our community. Congratulations to Navarro College on 75 years. I congratulate Jerry Lozier from Waxahachie Global High School on being named the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals Region X Assistant Principal of the Year for the 2021-2022 school year. I thank Jerry for his commitment to Waxahachie ISD. Each year Mansfield ISD honors nonteaching staff with the Shining Star Award for exceptional service and contributions to their students and staff members. This year's recipient was Brenda Stewart. As a crossing guard, each morning Brenda gets up to ensure the safety of all students going to Mansfield ISD. I thank Brenda for all her hard work and her dedication to her community. Congratulations to Chrisanna Melick on winning first place in the UIL State competition for journalism by leading the Waxahachie fine arts program. I pass on my sincerest congratulations to the team of Morgan Lenamond, Maven Navarro, Katie Walker, and Owen Bartosh. This entire team put on a brilliant performance to take Waxahachie High School to the top. I congratulate Greg Ellis on being named the new head football coach for Southwestern Assemblies of God University. I wish him good luck. I congratulate Elizabeth Tull on being awarded the Excellence in Community Service Award by the Rebecca Boyce Chapter of the national Daughters of the American Revolution and for being crowned the Crape Myrtle Queen at the annual Crape Myrtle Festival in Waxahachie. I congratulate Nolan Haisler on being recognized for 50 years of service as an H-E-B Ennis partner. Yes, that is 50 years at H-E-B. This honor recognizes him for his commitment to the city of Ennis that will leave a lasting impact for many years to come. It is always a big deal when a small-town boy makes it to the big leagues. From Navarro College to SMU, and now with the Indianapolis Colts, I congratulate Trevor Denbow on his achievement. He showed hard work pays off, and I know his family is very proud of him, as is the entire city. I congratulate Sonia Rivera on being awarded Detention Officer of the Year by the Navarro County Sheriff's Office for 2021. I want to bring attention to five young women who earned the honor of receiving the Girl Scouts Gold Award: Dani DelVecchio, Samantha Aos, Julia Daniel, Caelin Whitley, and Camden Woolery. To receive this award, they each had to help fix a problem in their community or make a lasting change in their world. Dani worked with Legacy Oaks, a retirement facility in Midlothian, to create garden buckets for the residents. She and her volunteers built two garden centers containing eight semi-self-sustaining garden buckets. The buckets are housed in a structure that allows easy access, regardless of a person's mobility level. Plants chosen for the gardens are easy to grow, high yielding, and compatible with each other, eliminating the need for pesticides. The new gardens encourage the residents to go outside, socialize, and offer an ongoing activity. The newly formed Green Thumb Club at the facility will maintain the gardens using instructions Dani provided. Samantha partnered with the Texas Conservation Alliance and Ducks Unlimited to address wood duck habitation loss. After learning that north Texas is along the path of the central flyway, the primary flight route for migratory birds, Samantha created resting spots and safe havens to protect these birds from predators. Together with her volunteers, Samantha built and installed 20 wood duck nesting boxes in three counties in north Texas. The Texas Conservation Alliance has agreed to monitor the boxes, which will provide homes for generations of wood ducks to protect the eggs from predators and support population growth. Julia's project was designed to assist older individuals with the difficult task of downsizing. Working with her church, Julia identified individuals who needed to organize and declutter their homes. She set up consultations with each family and set goals and dates to sort through items. With volunteer assistance, each family determined what they would donate, throw away, and keep during the process. The families were able to declutter in a positive way, even under difficult circumstances like a family death. The youth group at her church will consider continuing this service with instructions on the process provided by Julia. Caelin used her love of performing arts to start a local theater company to serve youth. Working with an anonymous donor and a local dance studio, Caelin was able to offer young artists the opportunity to be part of a theater production and work with professional actors at no cost. Twenty-three students created a production together, running tech or being a part of the cast. With her volunteers, Caelin organized the rental of the performing space, the selection of the play, rehearsal planning, and all costuming. Using Caelin's framework, The Troupe Theater has become a nonprofit organization that will offer low-cost theater experiences to local youth. Camden's project supported The Outlet Thrift Store, a nonprofit that helps fund camps and special projects for at-risk youth. The organization historically had difficulty processing donations quickly. Recognizing the relationship between inventory on the sales floor and potential revenue to benefit children, Camden built shelving units, added organizational bins with labels, and established a system to streamline the donation receiving process. The new system allowed merchandise to be placed on the floor for sale in a much quicker and efficient manner. The store will maintain the new organization system moving forward and use a similar process when they open new stores. These are just a few examples of some outstanding people living in Texas' Sixth District. It is my privilege to honor them on the House floor. Every Sunday, after the ``joys'' would come ``concerns,'' and there was never a shortage because everyone knew in Matthew he says: ``Where two or three are gathered in my name I am in the midst of them.'' It is no different today, and we face a great number of challenges in our country. So I ask that you keep all Americans in your prayers. Pray for our farmers and ranchers, who have faced incredible trials and tribulations these past couple of years as they continue to provide for all of us. Pray for those affected by the war in Ukraine as they face an aggressor who cares not for morality and willfully disregards the importance of human life. Pray for those affected by the fentanyl epidemic, which has devastated our communities. Pray for the families who have lost loved ones and the innocent human life taken by human slavery as a result of the disarray in human trafficking at our border. Continue to keep the people of Uvalde, especially the families of those most affected, in your prayers. Keep those struggling with mental health in your prayers, and be a voice of light in a time of darkness to those who need help. Keep joy in your hearts, hope in man, and faith in God. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a true Texan, Michael Clark. Mike was a hero that dedicated his life to the service of his country. He started his career as an interrogator conducting strategic level debriefings of legal travelers, escapees, and defectors along the border between East and West Germany. He later moved to counterintelligence where he was assigned to Ballistic Missile Defense Systems Command and was the covering agent for the Missile Intelligence Agency and the Strategic Defense Initiative Program (Star Wars) programs. It was here that he participated in multiple espionage investigations, the most notable was that of James Durwood Harper. After his success with counterintelligence Mike spent the next 20 years of his career in the HUMINT operations. It was with HUMINT as a case officer that Mike focused on spotting, assessing, and recruiting foreign nationals in order to conduct espionage for the United States. He then spent his final 8 years of service with U.S. Army Special Operations as the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment Delta (Delta Force). Even after retirement Mike still served as a Senior Intelligence Operations Specialist for a USAF Special Operations unit and as CEO of OST-I, a security consulting company in Fort Worth Texas. Michael Clark is a national hero who was a expert in his field and true war fighter. We lost a great man who will always be remember for his service, love of his country, cigars, and Jameson Whiskey. But most of all the love he had for his family and friends. I thank Mr. Clark, for his dedication to our country and we all pray for peace for his family during this time.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the sesquicentennial celebration of the city of Ennis, Texas, founded on June 8, 1872. When the railroad was expanded from Houston to St. Louis in 1872, many of the workers found solace and community in what we know today as Ennis. The railroad workers were drawn to the area's bluebonnets and cotton fields. The appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds this Texas town still runs deep in the community. Through the years, Ennis has grown as an agricultural and industrial community, attracting residents and visitors, which has earned it the title of the ``Official Bluebonnet City'' of our State. Ennis is known for more than just its bluebonnets. It is also the hosting city of the National Polka Festival. The National Polka Festival began in 1967 and attracts as many as 50,000 people to the town. Ennis is also home to the Texas Motorplex, where national records have been set and speed milestones have been broken. My family and I have been able to witness some truly remarkable races there. It is places like these that make Texas proud. The events and venues of Ennis, Texas proudly promote Texas values by providing a family atmosphere and cultivating community outreach. Strolling along the historic district of Ennis, one can experience plentiful restaurants and shopping options. When entering any store, you are kindly greeted. Families and neighbors welcome each other with open arms. The hospitality of Ennis is seen through these interactions, and it becomes evident why the citizens of Ennis take so much pride in their town. Ennis has encompassed many of our Texan values, including community and family, and has shown Texas pride for the past 150 years. I am proud and honored to represent the people of Ennis in the Sixth Congressional District of Texas. I look forward to what the next 150 years brings to the great city of Ennis.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Once is more than enough for us, but I am sure that it was a well-earned victory. I appreciate having my friend, Mr. Palazzo, give me this time today. Today, I come before the House of Representatives to honor and recognize those who have chosen to serve our country as members of their National Guard and those enlisted in military Reserve units. The National Guard's mission began on December 13, 1636, when the Massachusetts Bay Colony organized three militia regiments to defend its people. Since that day, they have been continuing their mission of always ready and always there. In 1775, during the American Revolution, they were there. In 1918, during World War I, they were there. In 1941, during World War II, they were there. Of course, on September 11, 2001, they were there. They are here today. Right now, there are over 6,500 Texas National Guard members stationed on our southern border. Why are they there? To protect us, as always. They are there to defend every man, woman, and child in this country. We should not have to rely on these brave men and women to secure our border as National Guardsmen, but we do, and they do. They are there to stop the cartels from trafficking drugs that are killing our young people by the hundreds of thousands--105,000 last year dead from fentanyl. They are there to save the women and children who are being brought into this country for the purposes of the sex trade, modern-day slavery. For many National Guard members, their love for country is a calling to protect it, and that attributes to years of service, just like Red Oak resident and veteran Captain Henry Sterling. Henry joined the Oklahoma National Guard shortly after graduating high school and marrying his wife, Billie. In 1951, Henry received orders to serve in Korea, and he answered the call to be there. He is still with us today and is still married to Billie after 73 years. While Captain Sterling's story is a remarkable one, it is not uncommon. We have outstanding men and women all over this country who dedicate their lives to protecting those who can't. History has always taught us that we can always count on the National Guard and those enlisted in our military Reserve units to always be there, so thank you. Thank you for what you do for this country. What you do for this country can't be overstated. It cannot be overlooked. We would not be here without you.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, today I come before the House of Representatives to honor and recognize the sacrifice of Sergeant Bishop Evans of the Texas National Guard, age 22, of Arlington, Texas. Sergeant Evans gave his life to save two others. He exemplifies the spirit of service and sacrifice that those who volunteer to serve in our Nation's military personify. He died an American hero. He was a light in times of darkness. May God bless his family. Madam Speaker, at this time I request a moment of silence to honor the life of Sergeant Bishop Evans.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I come before the House of Representatives to recognize the Midlothian Innovative Learning Experience, or MILE, as the nonprofit of the year in 2021 for the city of Midlothian, Texas. This is a state-of-the-art educational facility that is providing high school students with additional learning pathways throughout the community. Nonprofits are a fundamental part of America, and I thank Midlothian Innovative Learning Experience for their dedication to teaching the future generation. It is important that we bring awareness to career and technical education so that people can learn about many different professions at a younger age. Career and technical education is a perfect way for students to apply what they are taught in school to a real-world environment. MILE offers five career and technical education pathways: culinary arts, entrepreneurship, civil engineering, aerospace engineering, and cybersecurity. These programs provide students the opportunity to utilize industry-standard equipment and practices they have shown an interest in. This unique learning space is able to replicate scenarios found in a professional, real-world working atmosphere. With the support from industry professionals, MILE is able to thrive and partner with Midlothian Independent School District. It is an honor to represent this group of mentors who help contribute to the outstanding education found all around Texas' Sixth District. I thank them for all they do. Recognizing Orise Kopnak on Her 100th Birthday

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Orise Kopnak, who just celebrated her 100th birthday. Twice a week, this Waxahachie, Texas, resident volunteers at Baylor Scott & White hospital to volunteer in the day surgery department waiting room. Since 2014, she has logged more than 2,400 hours of her personal time to encourage, serve, and assist people who are waiting for a loved one to come out of surgery. Orise's faithfulness to stand with the families, friends, and caregivers of patients during anxious and often difficult circumstances is a testament to her character. Even during a pandemic, Orise continued to volunteer. People like Orise Kopnak represent everything that is good about our country. America was built on the volunteer principle. It has been instrumental in our Nation's advancement and made us, as Americans, a strong and self-reliant people. Ronald Reagan once said the volunteer spirit is the engine that drives the whole history of the United States. It is an extra dimension of faith, friendship, and brotherhood that makes us good neighbors and good people and made America a great country. I thank Orise for showing us how it is done. There is a reason her generation has been dubbed the Greatest Generation. May God bless her as she continues to carry out one of life's greatest causes: serving others. Recognizing Demond Davis

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I take this time to recognize one of my constituents, Ellis County Sheriff's Deputy Demond Davis. Deputy Davis was new to the sheriff's force when he responded to a 10-200, which is a drug-related incident. Once he arrived, he witnessed a drug overdose. The individual was struggling, barely breathing, and his conditions were intensifying. Deputy Davis rushed to help and quickly administered Narcan nasal spray. According to the account, the individual immediately started coming to. They were transported to Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Waxahachie, where they received additional medical attention. Deputy Davis' actions ensured another person did not fall victim to the opioid epidemic. Ellis County Sheriff Brad Norman awarded the Life- Saving Award commendation and pin to Deputy Davis for his heroic actions. Drug overdoses, especially from fentanyl, have become more prevalent in the U.S. Deputy Davis and his fellow law enforcement officers are our front line in responding to this terrible crisis. We cannot thank our law enforcement and first responders enough. America needs more heroes like Deputy Demond Davis. Congratulating Timothy Redhair

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and congratulate a resident of Waxahachie, Texas, Timothy Redhair, who was promoted to the rank of colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve this month. Colonel Redhair has a long and distinguished career in the military while also being a steward of our community. As a lieutenant colonel, he commanded the 2nd Battalion, 132nd Infantry Regiment of the Texas Army National Guard and later had the opportunity to lead the Headquarters Battalion of the Texas Army National Guard's 36th Infantry Division. During the height of the pandemic, Colonel Redhair deployed with his division to Kuwait. After returning from the Middle East, Timothy joined the Army Reserve, where he serves as the emergency preparedness liaison officer for Texas. When Colonel Redhair isn't protecting our community, he spends his time as an assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 520, Circle Ten Council of the Boy Scouts of America, where he trains young men and women to become our future leaders. This commitment to our country and our community is outstanding, and I am glad to see such a worthy member of our community receive this honor. I thank Colonel Redhair again for his service and congratulate him on his well-deserved promotion. In Support of Ukraine

Mr. ELLZEY. It has been over 2 months since Russia invaded Ukraine. We are witnessing a war crime forced upon the people of Ukraine. But from this tragedy we have seen great strength from the Ukrainian people, as well as a great deal of kindness and support from our fellow Americans. In fact, throughout Texas District Six, you will see support with Ukrainian flags being flown and people donating their time to help the people of Ukraine. For example, Waxahachie's very own Gregg Burdette went with a nine-person team from Texas Baptist Men to assist with Ukrainian refugees in Poland. Gregg's team spent 10 days volunteering in shelters and receiving and sorting donated materials. With volunteers from all over the world, they were able to help many families and children get food, supplies, and a good night's rest. Gregg is not the only District Six native giving aid to Ukraine. Surepoint Medical Centers, a local free-standing emergency room chain based out of Mansfield, Texas, donated their own medical supplies to aid the people of Ukraine. With the help of many District Six residents who work for Surepoint, they were able to send critical medical supplies that included tourniquets, bandages, and various other lifesaving items. I am proud of the work and kindness not just from the people of District Six, but everyone else who has donated any time, supplies, or sent prayers to the Ukrainian people in their time of need. My friend from Arizona, I appreciate you yielding me time.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Thomas Peek Rozier, Jr., as he retires after 42 years of distinguished service in keeping the lights on for the people of Texas. A graduate of DeSoto High School, Tom started his career as a member of the Right-of-Way Crew for Texas Power & Light in 1980. The following year, Tom graduated from climbing school and scaled his way up--both literally and figuratively--to become a senior lineman in 1984, which happened to be the year Texas Power & Light became Texas Utilities Electric Company, later known as TXU and now Oncor. For the next 22 years, Tom proved to be a trusted employee of TXU, rising to the ranks of senior electrician and patrolman and managing several substation crews. A humble kid from Greenville, Mississippi, who--in his own words--``crammed 12 years of school into 14,'' Tom never saw himself reaching the heights that he did. Luckily, his superiors recognized his potential and encouraged him to seek a position in the Transmission Grid Management (TGM) Division in 2004, where he has worked ever since. Tom's decades of experience as a lineman and patrolman have been invaluable for TGM and allowed him the opportunity to serve the very crews he dedicated so much of his life to. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the people of the 6th Congressional District and the State of Texas, it is an honor to recognize Tom for his many years of hard work and to wish him the best in his retirement.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Mr. Speaker, I come before the House of Representatives to bring attention to National Agriculture Month. And, of course, before I begin my prepared remarks, I want to talk about what we see going on in Ukraine and Russia. Ukraine is the breadbasket of that region. And 30 percent of all of the world's grain, wheat, is produced in that region. And as we talk about this today, and in a few months we are going to be talking about it even more, about how the farms and ranches of the United States feed the entire world. Over the past couple of years our farmers have faced unprecedented obstacles from COVID, COVID lockdowns, labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, high fuel prices, and record-high fertilizer prices. But as always, they have overcome those challenges, and they have kept Americans and the world fed during a time of great uncertainty. Each American farmer feeds more than 165 people. Texas leads the Nation in the number of farms and ranches, with 248,416 farms and ranches covering 127 million acres. The ag industry is the pillar of a healthy and prosperous nation. And in the 6th Congressional District of Texas, we have a long history of farming and ranching. We are home to families like the Beeklys, the Patmans, the Buchholzes, the Borns, and the Dineens. Many of them have earned the title of a ``Texas Century Farm'' or Texas Century Ranch.'' Those titles are only given to families that have served our country as farmers and ranchers for over 100 years. Families who get up before dawn to tend to crops and herd cattle. They are part of over 5,000 farms and ranches in my district. So if you fed your family today, thank a farmer. Thank a rancher. And in Texas, thank a neighbor.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to address the floor today and bring attention to an extraordinary young man from Mansfield, Texas, named Orion Jean. In 2020, Orion was selected as the National Kindness Speech Contest Winner. With the cash prize that Orion received from the speech contest, he created his own initiative focused on community and kindness, called Race to Kindness. His first project was Race to 500 Toys. Orion collected and personally donated over 600 books to the Children's Medical Center of Dallas, but Orion did not stop there. He continued on with his next Race to Kindness project, Race to 100,000 Meals. With the support of local communities and nonprofit organizations, Orion fed over 100,000 people during Thanksgiving 2020. Orion's efforts not only reached the people of District 6, but with his most recent endeavor, Race to 500,000 Books, he has collected 500,000 books and is distributing them to Mansfield Independent School District, Fort Worth Independent School District, and Dallas Independent School District, along with several literacy organizations. Just when you think this young man could not get any more impressive, he is also a published author with his debut book, ``A Kids Book About Leadership,'' which encourages children to discover the power of leadership that resides within themselves. He has appeared on Good Morning America and The Ellen Show, where he received a $10,000 donation for Race to Kindness. And right now, Orion is a Top 5 finalist for Time's Kid of the Year 2021. Orion's goal is to pull kindness to the forefront and show the true power of community and how those two qualities can change people's lives. We should all strive to be more like Orion Jean.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize an outstanding constituent of Texas 6, Battalion Chief David Maeker, who has dutifully served the people of Waxahachie for the past 26 years. David was Battalion Chief in 2018 but was leading in and out of the fire station well before that. Throughout his career, he has set the tone for what it means to be a good leader. I am incredibly proud to announce that Chief Maeker was named Firefighter of the Year for Waxahachie in 2021, an outstanding honor for which he deserves to be recognized. David also helps his community. He has done so by starting a nonprofit called Compassion for the Fatherless, which works with an orphanage overseas in fulfilling the needs of children by providing them with a strong foundation to be successful in life. David, you truly lead by example. I, and the citizens of Waxahachie, thank you for your incredible service and leadership in our community and to those who need it most. Congratulations on the well-deserved honor.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Mr. Speaker, I come to the House floor today to congratulate Mike Fletcher, the store director of the H-E-B in Corsicana, Texas. After 27 years, Mike did something we all hope to do one day, and that is retire. Though not a Corsicana native, Mike has come to call Corsicana home. He grew up in Waco, and lived there until he was about 20, and then attended Texas A&M University and while attending school, started his career in the grocery industry. What H-E-B and Mike have done for Corsicana and the surrounding community over the last 19 years cannot be captured in a 1-minute speech. But what I can say is that Mike has served his community. He kept the doors open, the shelves stocked, and the community fed during the COVID-19 pandemic and the winter storm that hit the great State of Texas. He and his wife, Deedy, have been an integral part of Navarro County since they moved there in 2002. Mike has served on the Salvation Army board, the United Way board of Navarro County, been a member of the Rotary Club, volunteered on disaster relief teams in West, Texas, when the fertilizer plants exploded in 2013, and much more. He might be retired from working at H-E-B, but he is not finished serving his community. So, Mike, congratulations on your retirement and thank you for your continued dedication to Corsicana and Navarro County.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Bost for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to be addressing the House today as we are just days removed from Veterans Day, when our Nation recognizes those who honorably served to protect our precious, God-given liberties and freedoms. We have a duty and responsibility to help the veterans of our Armed Forces who have fought to preserve our freedoms and liberties. In 2011, VA launched the Veterans Integration to Academic Leadership program, or the VITAL program, to provide mental health services to student veterans on college campuses. Hundreds of thousands of veterans attend college every year. They often have difficulty adjusting from the military to an academic campus culture and relating to nonveteran peers. As someone who has personally gone through the transition back to civilian life, I can say my experiences in combat and leadership were vastly different than the experiences of my fellow students. I was much older than my fellow students; much older. I was no longer surrounded by my fellow warriors; and I was a stranger in a strange academic land. For these reasons, I understand why the VITAL program is so important. Since its inception in 2011, it has grown to support student veterans at 183 locations. VITAL program services are locally managed, staffed, and evaluated by VA medical centers working with area schools, which allows for independence and flexibility. It connects student veterans with needed care and services, and helps prevent veteran suicide. The VITAL Assessment Act will ensure critical information about the VITAL program is gathered, improvements are made, and will help provide mental healthcare and support to student veterans. This act adds accountability and transparency. It will require the VA to report to Congress about the program's management, operations, and effectiveness in support of student veterans' mental health and educational goals. It also requires the VA to use information gathered to create best new practices, goals, and performance measures for the program. In conclusion, I thank the many veterans' groups supporting this bill. I am grateful to House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Ranking Member Bost for being an original cosponsor of this bill. And I thank Chairman Takano for supporting this bill and speaking favorably during the committee hearing; Health Subcommittee Chair Brownley, and the members of the Veterans' Affairs Committee for their unanimous support of this bill. This will help student veterans achieve their goals and dreams. And just as the VITAL program has a proven record of saving lives, this bill will further improve the program and help save even more lives of veterans. I ask all Members of the House to please support H.R. 5516.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I rise to urge defeat of the previous question so that we can immediately consider H.R. 5071. Operations Enduring Freedom and Freedom's Sentinel are coming to a conclusion in a way that no American should be willing to tolerate nor accept. This conflict began nearly 20 years ago. There have been 2,443 U.S. military killed in action, 3,800 contractor and DOD civilians killed in action, 1,144 allied troops killed in action, and over 30,000 veteran suicides since 9/11; the victims of their internal and unseen wounds. In Texas District 6, we lost Staff Sergeant Jeremy S. on April 6, 2011, and Private First Class Joel R. on April 16, 2011. Brothers in arms, killed 10 days apart. In Texas, we have lost 193 of our sons and daughters, all of whom, like Luke Bushatz would say: ``Not one ounce of sweat or blood in the defense of others is a waste.'' But last week, this administration handed over 600,000 weapons, 75,000 vehicles, and 200 aircraft to the enemy. What we have now is September 10, 2001, with a well-armed enemy. For those who have stood the watch and those who have died standing that watch, duty, honor, and country is not an academic study; it is a way of life and sometimes death. So I call on our Commander in Chief, Madam Speaker, to take those words as seriously as we do and to do his duty to honor our servicemembers and their families by informing this body, and the Americans we represent, every day on what is happening on the ground in Afghanistan and what this administration is doing to bring American citizens, and the Afghans who helped us, to safety. Infrastructure needs did not leave 10,000 to 15,000 Americans stranded. Climate change did not cause this catastrophe. Combat is a not a PowerPoint briefing. American lives are at stake. Get our countrymen out of Afghanistan. The mission is only complete when they are out, not one minute before.

Mr. ELLZEY

Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, first of all, I thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; my family--my beautiful wife, Shelby, my incredible daughter, McCall; and my incredible son, Jack; my parents in Texas and California; and papa looking down on me from Heaven. I thank my family in the Sixth District of Texas. I will serve you with quiet professionalism. I would like to read for you Philippians 4:8-9. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable--if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy--dwell on these things. Do what you have learned and received and heard from me, and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. I believe America is exceptional. I love my country. It is an honor to serve. I would appreciate the prayers of all of those in here as I learn my job. Madam Speaker, I would like to leave you with a moment of silence for your colleague, our friend, and my predecessor, Ron Wright, and his family.