Terry Everett

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, I would just simply point out, as the gentleman from Pennsylvania recognized in his statement, that the treaty does not require this actual dismantling to take place, only that they are removed from deployment. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Chairman, the bill reported out by the committee supports the administration's objectives while making significant improvements to the budget request. The recent conflict in Iraq dramatically demonstrated the effectiveness of emerging military technologies and at the same time validated the requirement to sustain and upgrade the Legacy Force. The committee's report strikes a balance between future investments and near-term priorities. In the area of missile defense, the committee's bipartisan recommendation provides the full $9.1 billion requested by the administration, but shifts $282 million from longer-term and less well- defined objectives to nearer-term priorities, particularly in the area of theater missile defense. Notably, it provides $20 million for improved Patriot IFF, identification, friend or foe, to address friendly fire incidents in Iraq. It also supports the President's program to achieve an initial defensive operational capability in fiscal year 2004 by expanding the Pacific missile defense test bed. In the area of military space, the committee's recommendation accelerates the next generation of satellite communications and navigation capabilities which have so recently allowed our military forces to act with unprecedented speed and precision. It also provides additional funds for operationally responsive space launch to shorten launch preparation times from months and years to days and weeks. Given the increasing importance of space to both the United States and potential adversaries, the committee recommends increased funding for space surveillance activities. The committee's recommendation provides for the sustainment and life extension of our strategic nuclear deterrent, which will remain a cornerstone of our national security posture for years to come. It provides the funds necessary to ensure the Nation's enduring stockpile remains safe and reliable even as the weapons in that stockpile age well beyond their designed service lives. The committee's recommendation also funds at the budget request several programs of special interest. Specifically, this includes the robust nuclear Earth penetrator, the advanced concepts initiative, and the enhanced test readiness program. The report also contains a provision that would repeal the prohibition on low yield nuclear weapons research. These actions will allow the defense nuclear complex to better respond to new and future military requirements. To quickly shift gears to an issue close to my heart, I am pleased to say that the committee was able to include an additional $147 million for Army aviation training to fully fund the Army's Flight School XXI program. Flight School XXI incorporates a new training syllabus derived from lessons learned from Kosovo's Task Force Hawk. Aviation students were being sent to operational units undertrained. To address this dilemma, Flight School XXI provides students with more flying hours in their ``go to war'' aircraft and calls for greater utilization of modern, state-of-the-art training simulators. Improved pilot and crew training is needed, and I firmly believe that Flight School XXI will better prepare Army aviators for real-world flying situations. I would also like to pay tribute to my ranking member, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes), for the great work he has done on these complex issues and to both the majority and the minority staffs for their long hours and hard work they put in on the issues before the subcommittee. Mr. Chairman, the committee's recommendation addresses administration objectives, Defense Department unfunded requirements, and Member priorities. I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Chairman, I reserve my time.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in reluctant opposition to this motion to concur in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1298, the U.S. Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis & Malaria Act of 2003. Although the intentions of this legislation are well placed to help stem the tide of these highly infectious diseases, I am deeply concerned about the management of these scarce Federal dollars by the UN Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Past practices of this organization leave me with little hope that these monies will be spent wisely to curtail these deadly diseases. Notwithstanding my opposition to this bill, I hope that USAID will work closely with the Global Fund to ensure that these funds are managed properly. In the event products are needed to be procured to prevent the spread of these diseases, I strongly encourage that the U.S. Buy America Act be employed. The expenditure of Federal, taxpayer dollars should support American companies whenever possible.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues on the House Agriculture Committee in saying farewell to an old friend and statesman, retiring Congressman Larry Combest of Texas. I've known Larry since I first came to Congress and joined the Agriculture Committee in 1993 and I have the utmost respect for his continual dedication to the Nation and our farmers and ranchers. Larry Combest's long and distinguished career has included the chairmanships of the House Intelligence and Agriculture committees. I had the pleasure of working side by side with Chairman Combest as he forged the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002. From holding ten historic nationwide Agriculture Committee field hearings, one of which he conducted in my state of Alabama, to personally securing a $73.5 billion funding commitment from the House leadership for the new Farm Bill, Larry Combest was largely responsible for the successful passage of the landmark legislation for farmers and ranchers. Chairman Combest's determination made it possible for the Committee to write a bipartisan, effective bill in a relatively short time and ensure its ultimate passage into law. This legislation restored a much- needed safety net to production agriculture that has been missing for too long. And when agriculture funding was under attack earlier this year, Larry Combest once again stood up for farmers by standing fast against harmful proposed budget cuts. As we in the House say goodbye to Larry, I thank him for his service to America and wish he and his wife Sharon the very best as they pursue a future life outside of Washington.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this legislation to improve pension security for American workers. However, I come to the floor today to express my serious concerns about the actions of some corporate decision makers, which has resulted in the sometimes criminal raiding and robbing of pension funds. I fear that we have not seen the last of the corporate malfeasance exhibited by the Enrons, Worldcoms, Global Crossings and HealthSouths. It is clear to me that consumer confidence in the American economy will not improve until corporate governance in America changes. I am concerned about what appears to be a growing number of executives in America who do not feel they should be accountable to their shareholders or employees. Moreover, some of these same corporate executives have been walking the halls of Congress looking for a taxpayer bailout for their failing industries. The sad fact is some continue to demand and receive outrageous salaries and perks while their companies flounder and, in some cases, face civil and criminal investigations for fraud and corruption. One of the most disturbing facts of these misguided or criminal actions by corporate leaders is that their employees see their hard- earned profit sharing plans disappear. The corporate ``rock star'' rides off with his guaranteed benefits package intact, while the workers and shareholders take it on the chin. Their investments and savings, tied to corporate growth and built up over the years, have vanished. Plans of retirement are halted, either permanently or indefinitely; and many workers find themselves forced to work in their golden years. Mr. Speaker, this legislation will do much to improve the security of private pension funds, but until the actions of corporate boardrooms reflect a new sense of responsibility and accountability to their employees and investors, consumer confidence in our economy will be a long time in coming.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Chairman, the Energy Policy Act of 2003 (H.R. 6) if a comprehensive package that balances conservation and efficiency, domestic production, research, and tax credits and incentives to promote increased development of traditional and alternative fuel sources. The exploration for oil and natural gas in ANWR is a matter that has been hotly debated for the last two decades. However, this issue has come to the forefront due to recent high energy and gas prices, which have dramatically raised consumer concern. This debate centers on whether the United States' interest in having a viable domestic supply of oil is worth the environmental risk of drilling in the refuge. The information we know so far is that far less than 1 percent of the 19 million acre refuge would be used for oil and gas development. In addition, improved technologies would be available, such as horizontal drilling, which allows oil to be extracted from miles around from a single point without any additional disturbance to the surface. Experts also predict that this could be the second largest supply of natural gas in America. In reference to reducing U.S. reliance on foreign oil, it is predicted that the output from this field could equal thirty years of imports from Saudi Arabia or sixty years from Iraq. As a result, our national security could be strengthened and the U.S. could have more control over its vital energy supplies. As you may know, the U.S. currently spends approximately $300 million per day from petroleum from overseas, which results in roughly $100 billion per year being sent overseas and thus helping to grow economies in those countries instead of ours. H.R. 6 represents a well balanced and long overdue national energy policy that will help our country secure the energy it needs and ensure a healthy economy into the 21st century. This measure will reduce our dependence on overseas sources of oil and create jobs here at home, while protecting our environment for future generations. I look forward to seeing this bill approved by the House and a final version signed into law so the American consumer can begin to realized the benefits.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise this afternoon to honor the career and the ultimate sacrifice made by my constituent, Thomas John Janis, who was killed near Florencia, Colombia on February 13th, while serving to defend his country in the war on narco-terrorism. Thomas Janis, a native of Chicago, Illinois, was born on November 23, 1946. Tom's distinguished military career began in 1966 when he entered the Army and served as a military policeman. While serving in Korea, Tom became interested in Army Aviation, and by 1969, he graduated from the Warrant Flight Officer Program. Tom Janis' tours of duty included serving in Vietnam, Panama, Germany, and several installations in the United States in aviation billets. Tom was an accomplished aviator with over 12,000 flight hours and had several assignments as an Instructor Pilot. After 32 years in active service to the country, Tom Janis retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 5 with numerous decorations for valor and service to his credit, including the Bronze Star, four Meritorious Service Medals, an Air Medal with valor, and numerous other commendations. After leaving the U.S. military, Tom continued his service as a pilot contributing to our nation's drug interdiction and counter-terrorism efforts in South America. On February 13, Tom was piloting a Cessna Caravan on a counternarcotics mission over southern Colombia. His aircraft experienced engine failure, yet he skillfully brought it to the ground without loss of life of any brave men on board his aircraft. Tragically, the crash site was in the center of a zone controlled by FARC narco-terrorists. While seeking to reach a safe area, Tom and a Colombian military colleague were deliberately killed by FARC narco- terrorists. Tom's murder will not go unpunished and his sacrifice will not be forgotten. Appropriately, Tom was buried with full military honors earlier this week at Arlington National Cemetery. Tom married his hometown sweetheart, Judith G. Gibaszek. As Tom's career progressed, the Janises raised four children--Christopher, Greer, Michael, and Jonathan. Tom's legacy of service lives on as two of his children are also Servicemen--Christopher is an Army Aviator, and Michael is in the Army Reserves. We all grieve Tom's loss and the entire Janis family will be in our prayers through these difficult days. Tom was one of Alabama's best and we shall truly miss him.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an American hero, Chief Warrant Officer Mark S. O'Steen, of Ozark, Alabama, in my congressional district. An Army Special Forces helicopter pilot, he recently gave his life in service to our nation during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. On January 30, while piloting a training mission flight in an MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, Mark O'Steen and three of his comrades lost their lives when their aircraft went down east of Bagram Air Force Base. Their sacrifices were not in vain. Mark O'Steen was and remains an inspiration to all of us, living his life for God and country. Highly motivated and talented, he followed in the footsteps of his late father and older brothers in pursing a military career. An excellent athlete, linguist, military pilot, husband, father, and son, Mark O'Steen embodied the best of Alabama and our nation. He was proud of his work and did not let the ever-present risk inherent in military service worry him. I join our Commander-in-Chief in offering the nation's gratitude for Mark's service and sacrifice to protect and preserve our freedoms. I also pass along my heartfelt condolences to Mark's family. This nation will be forever grateful to you.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I will be unable to vote during the following rollcall votes this afternoon because I am departing on the Speaker's CODEL to visit our troops in the Middle East. However, if I had been present, I would have voted as indicated below. Rollcall No. 29 (Motion to recommit H.R. 4, the Personal Responsibility, Work and Family Promotion Act of 2003, with instructions)--``nay''; rollcall No. 30 (Final Passage of H.R. 4)-- ``yea''; rollcall No. 31 (Motion to recommit H.J. Res. 2, Making Further Continuing Appropriations For The Fiscal Year 2003)--``nay''; rollcall No. 32 (Final Passage of H.J. Res. 2)--``yea''.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I join with the whole nation and the world in mourning the loss of the seven-member crew of the space shuttle Columbia (STS-107). My condolences go out to the families of Commander Rick Husband, Pilot William McCool, Mission Specialists David Brown, Kalpana Chawla, Michael Anderson, Laura Clark, and Payload Special Ilan Ramon. The flight of STS-107, seen as routine by many at its beginning, ended in tragedy on February first with the loss of the crew upon Columbia's re-entry in the earth's atmosphere as the shuttle was headed for home. All loss of life is tragic, but it is especially painful when those who represent our best and brightest are suddenly take from us. The crew of Columbia gave their lives doing what they loved most--pushing back the boundaries of the unknown while striving to better all humankind. For certain, their mission was not in vain. America is not finished with space. Indeed, our exploration beyond the veil of our home planet has only just begun. We owe it to the crew of Columbia, Challenger, Apollo 1, and all those who despite the risks dared to dream, to continue the beneficial programs of space exploration and experimentation. We live in an age when the ego and excess of pampered athletes and pop idols underservedly garner the lion's share of national attention. Yet there are plenty of suitable role models for America's youth. Those who wear the uniform of this great Nation in far away lands or while orbiting hundreds of miles above our earth are ``real'' heroes. Those who rushed the cockpit of United Airlines Flight 93 to save our Nation's Capitol from certain terrorist destruction are heroes, as are the tireless firefighters and emergency workers who labored in the wake of 9/11 to save lives and inspire our land. Today we say farewell to seven more heroes--the men and women of space shuttle Columbia. Their contributions and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise to pay tribute today to a very special American and citizen of my congressional district in Alabama. Captain Maureen A. Allen of the United States Air Force Reserve. Captain Allen is an Air Reserve Technician Evaluator Flight Nurse assigned to the 908th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron located at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama. When President Bush called our nation to join the battle against terrorism in response to the terrible attacks of September 11, 2001, Captain Allen responded. As part of her 908th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, she volunteered for a 120-day overseas deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. As the senior medical member of her three-person crew, Captain Allen served in the position of Medical Crew Director, transporting combat and non-combat casualties resulting from operations conducted in the Afghanistan battle theater. She performed her duty of diagnosing and supervising the treating of military patients with the highest level of professionalism and skill, often in challenging environments both in the air and on the ground. Captain Allen's patients included U.S. combat troops, Special Operations Forces, coalition and friendly forces, as well as civilian casualties and enemy prisoners of war. To be sure, it was not easy work as she and her crew lived in tented facilities and were often called upon to relocate in response to hostile threat or medical necessity. Captain Allen, whose uncommon service to her nation has resulted in her receiving both the Air Force and Army Commendation medals, the Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and the Air Force Training Ribbon, has not escaped the notice of our President. President Bush requested that Captain Allen sit with the First Lady during tonight's State of the Union Address here in this Chamber. Personally, I believe the President made a fine choice in honoring Captain Allen for her patriotism. I joined the rest of Alabama in expressing pride in her service beyond the call of duty to America.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the service and memory of a great American and a remarkable citizen of my State of Alabama, Dr. Martha C. Myers. On December 30, Dr. Myers and two others, William E. Koehn of Texas and Kathleen A. Gariety of Wisconsin, lost their lives in a terror attack aimed at them simply because they were American missionaries. All three were in Jibla, Yemen serving in a hospital for the poor run by the Southern Baptist Church. Like her colleagues, Dr. Myers was thoroughly devoted to serving the Lord and believed that her life should be spent doing His work regardless of personal risk. She loved treating and caring for the poor and labored in Yemen for 24 years before she lost her life. Americans and Christians are both a rarity in that remote Arab nation which has long been known for its lawlessness. Dr. Myers knew the danger that awaited her each day while serving in Yemen and yet she looked forward to her work as each day brought her closer to the Lord. Last weekend, a large memorial service was held at her home church, Dalraida Baptist, in Montgomery in my congressional district. So many family, friends and fellow Alabamians turned out to honor the testimony of this remarkable Christian. Perhaps the most striking example of Dr. Myer's walk for Christ was the attendance of Yemenis at another memorial service held for her last week in Jibla, a place she loved so much that she chose to be buried there. The Alabama Baptist newspaper reported that no less than 40,000 gathered at the missionary hospital and lined the street to pay their respects for Dr. Myers and her colleagues. ``In a country where professing faith in Jesus Christ could result in death, mourners sang `He is Lord' in Arabic and recited the Lord's Prayer,'' the paper wrote. Our prayers go out to the families of Dr. Myers and her colleagues who died in service to their fellow man. They are a powerful example of true courage and sacrifice no matter what the cost to themselves. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, after nine terms and 18 years in this chamber, Congressman Sonny Callahan of Alabama's First District is saying goodbye to this institution and will retire to life along the Dog River on the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast. Sonny certainly deserves a chance to enjoy life with his family, but I don't mind telling you that I will miss him. When I came to Washington ten years ago, I looked to Sonny for guidance as I sought to run my office and seek committee assignments. I leaned on him pretty heavy in my early days up here and I will be forever grateful for his sound advice. Sonny's reputation of fairness to all is respected and admired on both sides of the aisle and his garnered him plenty of friends of all political stripes. A good example of this was the close friendship he had with the late Rep. Joe Moakley. Politically, they were a world apart, but you could not find two better friends and I personally enjoyed their company at dinner on many an evening after we concluded legislative business. For those of us in the Alabama delegation, Sonny has been an invaluable ally in obtaining vital federal project funding for our districts. His chairmanship of the House Appropriations Energy and Water Subcommittee has been beneficial to our state. I personally owe him a debt of gratitude for his help in securing Army Corps funds to rebuild a life-saving levee residents in the flood- prone town Elba in my congressional district. Sonny was always there for us, no matter our personal politics and he never failed to put the needs of Alabama first. Sonny's impact was not only felt in Alabama, but also in the Oval Office, where he was continually leaned upon for support of foreign operations funding. As past chairman of House Appropriations Foreign Operations subcommittee, Sonny helped to shape America's foreign aid budget and to some degree our foreign policy. For that reason, it was not uncommon to find as many dignitaries in his office as constituents from Mobile. For many up here, such power and responsibility would go to their heads. But not Sonny's. He was a cardinal, but foremost he was and is a gentleman, a statesman, and a very good friend. I want to thank Sonny for his exemplary service to this House, to Alabama and to America. We're going to miss him.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give tribute to a dear friend and exemplary congressional staffer who served well the people of South Alabama for over three decades. It is with some sadness that I announce that Clay Swanzy, my long time chief of staff, will retire in November from the House of Representatives. When you think of the success and contributions of Alabama's Congressional Delegation over the years, you would be remiss not to recognize the strong support role of many of its knowledgeable staff. We have a lot of talented people working for us here on the Hill, but perhaps none is more fondly thought of, or more noted for his abilities, than Clay Swanzy. A native of Chickasaw and graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, Clay joined the staff of Congressman Jack Edwards of Mobile in 1971. Fresh from the newsroom of the Mobile Register, Clay found it easy to trade his reporter's notebook for the desk of a congressional press secretary. In ten short years, he climbed the ladder of seniority to become chief of staff for Congressman Bill Dickinson. Upon Dickinson's retirement in 1992, I was pleased that Clay chose to stay on and head my office for these last ten years. Members of Congress frequently get the lion's share of attention for much of what is accomplished in these Halls. However, if it were not for the tireless and devoted efforts of staffers like Clay, Congress would be less efficient and certainly less productive. Clay never liked to take the spotlight and has been happiest laboring behind the scenes to ensure that the people of Alabama's Second Congressional District have been well served. Ironically, most back home have never heard of Clay, but they have certainly benefited from his work. I would like to personally thank Clay for his devotion to me and the people of Southeast Alabama as well as his friendship. He will be sorely missed. I also wish he and his wife, Dianne, a happy retirement in their new home of Fairhope, Alabama.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the distinguished career of Colonel William H. Petty of the Alabama National Guard who prepares for retirement in the coming months. Colonel Petty has distinguished himself through more than twenty-nine years of service in the United States Armed Forces. Colonel Petty is best known for his outstanding performance as the director of human resources for the Alabama National Guard. As the human resources officer, his command presence and superb situational awareness helped to ensure all units within the Alabama National Guard, both Army and Air, exceeded personnel standards. Colonel Petty developed, implemented, and coordinated the State's first reduction-in-force of full-time personnel for both Army and Air AGR programs. Thanks to his efforts, no full-time AGR soldier lost his or her job. His superior application of technical, tactical and leadership abilities earned him the respect and admiration of all soldiers assigned to the command. In his current assignment as director of human resources, Colonel Petty has fully demonstrated his desire and ability to lead soldiers by example and prepare them for possible mobilization and deployment. Colonel Petty is a tough, standards oriented officer who always extracts the very best performance from soldiers assigned to his command. Colonel Petty is the epitome of the core Army values and proudly serves his nation, the State of Alabama, and the local community in an unwavering manner. Colonel Petty's numerous achievements and outstanding dedication to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on himself, the Alabama National Guard, and the United States armed forces.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, when I was elected to the United States House of Representatives, I took an oath to protect and defend the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. Fortunately, in my 10 years in Congress, we have had few opportunities to vote on authorizing the use of military force to protect our country from these enemies. Authorization of military force is one of the most solemn decisions that we can make as Members of Congress, and it is a decision that must be made only after thoughtful and prayerful consideration. Our Nation now faces a clear and present danger from the regime of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. Saddam has been without international supervision; and I have received information, both from public and from classified hearings, that suggests that the Iraqi regime could be merely months away from attaining the necessary resources to complete his mission of developing nuclear weapons. Saddam has made it clear that he will do whatever is necessary to prohibit inspections of his compounds for the purpose of determining the extent to which he has stockpiled the necessary components to produce these weapons. He has the technology and the know-how to build such a device. All that he lacks is materials. The Intelligence community says that Iraq is 3 to 5 years away from developing a nuclear device if it has to produce its own nuclear bomb material, and months away if it acquires this material from outside sources. The problem is, we do not know when the clock started on either scenario. Additionally, Saddam's government has repeatedly violated the 1991 cease-fire agreement that ended the Persian Gulf War and Iraq's obligation to unconditionally disarm its weapons of mass destruction. Not only does Saddam Hussein continue to halt the will of the international community with regard to inspections, he continues to shoot at coalition aircraft patrolling the northern and southern no-fly zones daily. For us not to recognize the clear and present danger that the Iraqi regime of Saddam Hussein represents to our country would be tragically wrong. We must protect and defend our Nation against this madman and his ability to destroy tens of thousands of Americans. The resolution authorizing the use of military force that we are considering today gives the President the flexibility and authority he needs to protect the American people while, at the same time, preserving the prerogatives of Congress. The findings at the beginning of this resolution offer more than enough evidence of Saddam Hussein's crimes. The authorization in section 3 has been appropriately modified in a bipartisan manner. It authorizes the use of military force as the President determines necessary and appropriate to: ``(1), defend the national security of the United States against the continuing threat posed by Iraq; and (2), enforce all relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions regarding Iraq.'' The resolution also requires a timely ``presidential determination'' that all means short of war have been exhausted, and that acting pursuant to this authorization is consistent with ongoing activities in the war against terrorism. Finally, this resolution contains reporting requirements to ensure that Congress and the American people are fully apprised on all matters relevant to this resolution and that both are full partners in an effort to rid the United States of the Iraqi threat. Mr. Speaker, September 11 changed our country and the world forever. For all of these reasons, I intend to vote in favor of the resolution and encourage my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, due to events that required my return to my district, I was unable to vote during the following rollcall votes. Had I been present, I would have voted as indicated below. Rollcall No. 400--On agreeing to H. Res. 525, expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the 107th Congress should complete action on and present to the President, before September 30, 2002, legislation extending and strengthing the successful 1996 welfare reforms.--``yes.'' Rollcall No. 401--On agreeing to H. Res. 524, expressing the sense of the House that Congress should complete action on the Permanent Death Tax Repeal Act of 2002.--``yes.'' Rollcall No. 402--On motion to suspend the rules and agree to H. Con. Res. 337, Recognizing the Teams and Players of the Negro Baseball Leagues for their Achievements, Dedication, Sacrifices, and Contributions to Baseball and the Nation.--``yes.'' Rollcall No. 403--On motion to Instruct Conferees on H.R. 3295, the Help America Vote Act.--``yes.''

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Chairman, I, too, rise today in strong support of H.R. 4628, the Intelligence Authorization Bill for Fiscal Year 2003. I am proud of the bipartisan work that went into the crafting of this bill. The gentleman from Florida (Chairman Goss) and the ranking member, the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Pelosi), deserve a great deal of credit for this bipartisan effort and the great product that we have before us today. It would be disingenuous to state that all is well within the United States intelligence community. The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence has been for a number of years identifying a number of major shortfalls and providing for our foreign intelligence needs. We have identified shortfalls, major limitations in human intelligence officers and assets. We have pointed out the limited capabilities this Nation has with respect to foreign language specialists. We have identified problems with aging systems and capabilities. And we have identified a serious problem with respect to taking calculated risks in collecting critical intelligence against those who would do our Nation harm. Mr. Chairman, this bill represents a major step forward in correcting many of these problems by funding programs, operations, and personnel that are vital to the security of this Nation. This bill is important in particular in that it begins to focus on modernization and upgrading our signals intelligence capacities. It provides funding authorizations to modernize capabilities that have long been ignored. Although I am supportive of the fund recommendations and policy directions of this bill, I have been personally concerned that it may be difficult for a national security agency to effectively obligate the large infusion of funding. Therefore, the bill directs executive oversight actions for these acquisition programs of the National Security Agency. I believe the guidance and direction in the bill will result in honest appraisals and recommendations to the Congress to ensure the taxpayers' dollars are most effectively spent. I feel this is a good bill that balances the increased investments against critical priorities with procedures, and I recommend its passage to my colleagues. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4628, the Intelligence Authorization Bill for fiscal year 2003. I am proud of the bipartisan work that went into the crafting of the bill. Chairman Goss and our Ranking Member, Nancy Pelosi deserve a great deal of credit for this bipartisan effort and for the great product that we have before us today. It would be disingenuous to state that all is well within the United States Intelligence Community. The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence has been for a number of years systematically identifying a number of major shortfalls in providing for our foreign intelligence needs. We have identified funding shortfalls, major limitations in human intelligence officers and assets. We have pointed out the limited capabilities this nation has with respect to foreign language specialists. We have identified problems with aging systems and capabilities. And, we have identified a serious problem with respect to taking calculated risks in collecting critical intelligence against those who would do our nation harm. Mr. Chairman, this bill represents a major step forward in correcting many of these problems by funding programs, operations, and personnel that are vital to the security of the United States. This bill represents the largest increase for foreign intelligence funding in our a decade, and provides the necessary resources for improving our efforts to protect the homeland and support our forces--civilian, military and diplomatic--waging the current war on terrorism. The policies and programs in this bill will enable us to strengthen our intelligence capabilities to ensure the best foreign intelligence efforts possible. This bill is important, in particular, in that it begins to focus on modernizing and upgrading our signals intelligence capabilities. It provides funding authorizations to modernize capabilities that have long been ignored. While focusing on modernization, it maintains a fair balance to ensure that current and legacy capabilities continues to be viable and contribute to our national security efforts by providing the necessary collection and analysis capabilities. Although I am supportive of the funding recommendations and policy directions in the bill, I have been personally concerned that it may be difficult for the National Security Agency to effectively obligate the large infusion of funding. Therefore, the bill directs specific executive oversight actions for these acquisition programs of the National Security Agency. I believe the guidance and direction in the bill will result in honest appraisals and recommendations to the Congress to ensure the taxpayers' dollars are most effectively spent. Mr. Chairman, this bill puts a great deal of emphasis on getting the Intelligence Community ``back to the basics.'' In short, this bill begins to correct the systemic problems that left us under-prepared for warning against the terrorist attacks on America. I feel that this is a good bill that balances the increased investment against critical priorities with procedures for effectively monitoring the wise investment of the taxpayers money. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4628.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an extraordinary team of individuals who have personified the meaning of a champion on the national stage. The cheerleading squad of Enterprise High School in my hometown of Enterprise, Alabama was recently successful in attaining their third cheerleading national championship in as many years. Earlier this year in Orlando, Florida, the squad earned the CheerSport National Championship in senior dance, the grand championship at the National Cheerleaders Association/National Dance Association Sunshine Classic, and the NCA/NDA American Classic Championship. In addition, the squad has claimed three individual national championships and the coach of the year national championship. The Wildcat cheerleading squad has exemplified the type of determination and hard work that is required to fulfill the heart of a champion. Their unprecedented history of national achievement is a testament to the community's commitment to excellence and fortitude for success. I take great pride in acknowledging the talents of the young people from my district, and it is this type of spirit, resolve, and ability embodied by this team of champions that allows me to confidently rest the future of our country in the hands of Alabama's youth.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, due to my attending to pressing business in my district on Friday and Monday and today's flight delays, I was unable to vote during the following rollcall votes. Had I been present, I would have voted as indicated below. Rollcall No. 244 (On Approving the Journal)--yes. Rollcall No. 245 (On agreeing to H. Res. 451, providing for consideration of H.R. 4931--the Retirement Savings Security Act)--yes. Rollcall No. 246 (On agreeing to the Neal of Massachusetts Substitute Amendment to H.R. 4931)--no. Rollcall No. 247 (On motion to recommit H.R. 4931 with instructions)--no. Rollcall No. 248 (On passage of H.R. 4931)--yes. Rollcall No. 249 (On motion to suspend the rules and pass as amended H.R. 3937, to revoke a Public Land Order with respect to certain lands erroneously included in the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge, California)--yes. Rollcall No. 250 (On motion to suspend the rules and pass as amended H.R. 3786, the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Revision Act of 2002)--yes. Rollcall No. 251 (On motion to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 3971, independent investigation of Forest Service firefighter deaths that are caused by wildfire entrapment or burnover)--yes. Rollcall No. 252 (On motion to suspend the rules and pass as amended H.J. Res. 95, designating an official flag of the Medal of Honor and presentation of that flag to each recipient of that Medal of Honor)-- yes. Rollcall No. 253 (On Approving the Journal)--yes. Rollcall No. 254 (On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 4858, to improve access to physicians in medically underserved areas)--yes. Rollcall No. 255 (On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill as amended H.R. 4679, the Lifetime Consequences for Sex Offenders Act of 2002).

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman, the chairman, and my good friend, the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Stump), for yielding me this time. I have served under him while he has been chairman of the Committee on Armed Services and also when he was chairman of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. This House will miss him. Let me speak about Army aviation training. The Army continues to short fund the training budget of its helicopter pilots. To address this shortfall, the committee took steps last year to begin funding the Army Aviation Institute Training Simulator program to enhance pilot training at the Aviation War-fighting Center. Unfortunately, the committee did not add funds for the program in this year's authorization bill due to the lack of resources. The Army is concerned with the crash rate of the OH-58C/D. It is four times greater than all other helicopters in the fleet. The Army has an immediate need for high-fidelity OH-58C/D simulators to improve the crew training of emergency procedures and other techniques on the aircraft. The Army has identified the AAITS program as the best way to provide this training. It is my hope that the defense appropriators in both Houses will give strong consideration to a $15 million add for six high-definition OH-58C/D simulators. Mr. Chairman, I can't think of a more important responsibility than to train Army Aviators in the best way possible, with the latest technologies available. The AAITS program meets this challenge by using commercially available technologies that are cost effective and ready to be deployed today.

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, due to illness, I was unable to vote during the following rollcall votes. Had I been present, I would have voted as indicated below. Rollcall No. 124 (H. Res. 404, on ordering the previous question)-- ``yes.'' Rollcall No. 125 (H. Res. 404, on agreeing to the resolution)-- ``yes.'' Rollcall No. 126 (H. Res. 392, on motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended)--``yes.''

Mr. EVERETT

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Etheridge) is a strong and tireless advocate for the tobacco growers of his State, and I understand his interest in the future of the tobacco program. The reform of the tobacco program is something that deserves and requires a great deal of thought and debate. I look forward to holding hearings in my subcommittee on this topic. I know several members are interested in this issue, and I can assure the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Etheridge) that the committee will take a hard and serious look at the Federal tobacco program later this year.