Ron Estes

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Leader Brady and Chairman Neal for their yeoman-like work on SECURE 2.0. This has been a truly bipartisan and bicameral effort that will assist all Americans save more for their retirement for longer throughout their lives. When SECURE 2.0 passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support, it had multiple provisions I helped introduce, including an increase in RMD age, retirement matching for student loan repayment, and enhancing 403(b) plans. As the House and Senate went through negotiations on this package, I was pleased to see that Unclaimed Savings Bonds was included, something that I have been working on since before I have been in Congress. The U.S. Treasury is sitting on potentially billions of dollars in bonds which haven't been claimed--mostly because people don't know they or their parents or grandparents even own bonds. If given access to federal records and the dormant bonds, most states would be able to make it easy for people to look up if they own lost bonds and to reclaim ownership. Approximately $29.7 billion in savings bonds have reached final maturity and ceased to pay interest. While Treasury claims that only one percent of all matured savings bonds have not been redeemed, it's much more. States already have programs in place to help their residents find lost or forgotten assets. It's a program that I'm passionate about, as I helped connect Kansans with their money and assets as Kansas State Treasurer for 6 years, fighting the U.S. Treasury tooth-and-nail the entire way. While my standalone unclaimed savings bond bill required Treasury to provide states with the names, addresses, and serial numbers--the best way to make sure Americans are reconnected with their rightful property--the provision in this bill makes Treasury's providing of serial numbers optional. I believe that this deliberate change is due to Treasury's failure to keep accurate records. This crucial information is necessary, and Congress overwhelmingly intended for Treasury to provide it. I would like to make it clear that it is the intent of Congress that, where possible, states should be able to access the serial numbers of unclaimed savings bonds. Inclusion of this provision is a positive step, but Americans won't see the full benefit until Treasury stops playing games with the savings bond program. I would briefly like to touch on the underlying Omnibus bill. It is a shame that good legislation supported by Republicans and Democrats like SECURE 2.0 has been tucked into a 4,000-plus-page bill that nobody has read in total. It contains highly partisan and reckless spending throughout, which I fundamentally oppose. I believe that last-minute legislation like this is a terrible way to run the greatest country in the world and I urge my colleagues to vote no.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Promoting Local Management of the Lesser Prairie-Chicken Act. Kansas energy producers and ranchers are excellent stewards of the land and resources. They work tirelessly to feed, fuel, and clothe our Nation while taking voluntary proactive measures to protect the lesser prairie-chicken's habitat. The U.S. Fish and Wildfire Service's inclusion of the lesser prairie- chicken on the threatened and endangered species list is nonfactual and disregards the preservation efforts of our energy producers and ranchers who best know their land. After a yearlong species status assessment, the Federal Government spent millions to conclude that the lesser prairie-chicken population is stable and has grown. Its inclusion on the threatened and endangered species list is detrimental to our robust ag and energy industries, blatant bureaucratic overreach, and is another example of the Biden administration's hindering American energy independence. My legislation stops Washington elites from undermining voluntary public-private conservation practices and ensures Kansans control our land.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor our friend and colleague, Jackie Walorski, with a cause that was near to her heart, the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting program, also known as the MIECHV program. Jackie lived a life of service, not just as a Member of the House of Representatives, but as a missionary for 4 years in Romania where, not surprisingly, she worked with a lot of children. She championed children and families in her role on the Worker and Family Support Subcommittee, and always advocated for the Hoosiers she represented. In her honor today, we're going to pass this critical bipartisan legislation reauthorizing a program that its whole purpose is to ensure that mothers and children do not fall through the cracks. Families will be able to be met where they are and connected to a host of support systems. Earlier this year, I visited with some early childhood supporters in Wichita, and the MIECHV program was something that they repeatedly told me was important for the work they do and the families they serve. I look forward to seeing strong bipartisan support today to pass this bill, lift up children and families, and honor our friend, Jackie.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following Roll Call votes. Had I been present, I would have voted as follows: On rollcall No. 495, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass Certain Bills and Agree to Certain Resolutions, I would have voted ``nay''; on rollcall No. 496, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass Certain Bills and Agree to Certain Resolutions, I would have voted ``nay''; and on rollcall No. 497, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 2521, as Amended, I would have voted ``nay.''

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and congratulate the Andale High School Indians on their 2022 Class 3A football State championship, their fourth in a row. Since 2019, Coach Dylan Schmidt and the class of 2022 have shown the State and country that the hard work and dedication they put into the game are unmatched on the field. With their win last Saturday, Andale continued its 4-year undefeated streak of 51 games, the second-longest active win streak in the entire country. To put this in perspective, the seniors at Andale High School have never lost a high school football game. During this impressive run, Andale has outscored their opponents by an average of more than 45 points per game. Coach Schmidt and his team now hold the record for the fourth-longest winning streak in Kansas State history. In a testament to their talent and Coach Schmidt's commitment to excellence, the team has only lost twice since 2017. I hope the entire House will join me in congratulating Andale High School and Coach Schmidt on their monumental achievements on the field and off the field. I wish them continued success in their upcoming season. Go Indians.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following Roll Call votes. Had I been present, I would have voted as follows: Roll Call vote No. 386, On Ordering the Previous Question, I would have voted NAY; Roll Call vote No. 387, On Agreeing to the Resolution H. Res 1254, Providing for consideration of the bills: H.R. 3771 South Asian Heart Health Awareness and Research Act, H.R. 5118 Wildfire Response and Drought Resiliency Act, and H.R. 6929 Susan Muffley Act, I would have voted NAY.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following Roll Call votes. Had I been present, I would have voted as follows: Roll Call vote No. 263, On Agreeing to the Amendment (Dingell of Michigan Part D Amendment En Bloc No. 2, I would have voted YEA; Roll Call vote No. 264, On Agreeing to the Amendment, Kildee of Michigan Part D Amendment No. 4, I would have voted NAY; Roll Call vote No. 265, On Agreeing to the Amendment, Butterfield of North Carolina Part D Amendment No. 5, I would have voted NAY; Roll Call vote No. 266, On Motion to Recommit (H.R. 2773) Recovering America's Wildlife Act, I would have voted YEA; Roll Call vote No. 267, On Passage of the bill (H.R. 2773) Recovering America's Wildlife Act, I would have voted NAY; Roll Call vote No. 268, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended, the bill (S. 516), to plan for and coordinate efforts to integrate advanced air mobility aircraft into the national airspace system, and for other purposes, I would have voted YEA; and for Roll Call No. 269, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass the bill (H.R. 721), to amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, review a final rule of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and for other purposes, I would have voted NAY.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I thank my friend, Mr. Arrington, for hosting this very important hour on this very important topic. I will concede that Texas is bigger geographically than Kansas and several other States as well. You know, it is important that we talk about this important issue, and I really appreciate the work that he does, and I appreciate serving with him on the Ways and Means Committee on so many of the important issues that we have to address for our country. Madam Speaker, tonight, as many Americans put their kids to bed, they are checking their schedules for the next day and doing a quick review of the bank accounts. They are deeply concerned about how they are going to be able to live with the crushing price increases in Joe Biden's America. We are talking a lot about the debt tonight. We are talking about, you know, how do you afford to make your payments on the issues that you have to address today? But also, how do you have to plan for the future, knowing how that debt is going to weigh down on people, weigh down on Americans, weigh down on them as individuals, but also weigh down on their kids and grandkids? You know, there is a lot of noise that happens in this bubble we call Washington, D.C., but everyday Americans have the same top concerns about the economy and rising prices. In fact, it has been a top concern for months now. Even last year during a townhall in October, 98 percent of the respondents said that they had seen an increase in the cost of regular necessities. Last week, I had an opportunity to speak with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen about why it is taking the administration so long to recognize inflation as a problem. She complained about other challenges the Biden administration faced in January of 2021. Let's look at what really has happened over the last 18 months. When President Biden took office, he was met with a growing economy that was already recovering from a global pandemic. We were already seeing the debt being addressed and starting to work in that direction. The COVID vaccine that had been developed from Operation Warp Speed was being distributed around the world, as well as throughout the United States. We were actually starting to see inflation stabilized at a mere 1.4 percent, and filling up your gas tank only cost $2.39, thanks to American energy independence. Despite all the pandemic-related challenges that Americans have gone through over the past year; consumer sentiment was relatively high at 79. But after a year of total Democrat control in the city, Americans no longer have a positive outlook on the economy. Our economy shrank in the first quarter. Americans are paying more for everything they buy on a regular basis. Gas has skyrocketed to an average above $5 per gallon, and consumer sentiment has dropped to a record low of 50.2. It is bad news for our country. Joe Biden and the Democrat policies are taking away the prosperity and the American Dream from families and small businesses across the country. You know, on Friday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released a staggering higher-than-expected inflation rate of 8.6 percent, but that is the year-over-year number. It really doesn't show the impact of inflation that has come up during the Biden administration, what a lot of people are calling Bidenflation. If we go back to January of 2021 when President Biden took office, we can see that month-over-month inflation is actually up a cumulative 11.4 percent. Think about that. If you bought something in January of 2021, it now costs 11.4 percent more than it did. That is a marketplace average. Some products have been a whole lot higher than that. You see it in gas. You see it in meat, bacon, and milk. Now, what does that mean for the average American? We are looking at, for the average American household, an additional $635 in monthly costs. As you can see, prices have continued to climb for American families each month, meaning that on average, each household has already paid an additional $5,000 for these failed policies under the Biden administration. Even if inflation stays the same, households will pay an additional $7,620 over the next 12 months. My Republican colleagues and I understand how devastating this is for Americans. We warned for months that kneecapping American energy production, while flooding the economy with Federal dollars and deficit spending, would create runaway inflation, as it has. Today, right now, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle could ease the burden on families by encouraging American energy production and stopping their pursuit of Big Government spending sprees. We would have a stronger economy and a stronger America through energy independence, an ability to balance the Federal budget, and a smaller government. These are the keys that will reverse course on a disastrous economy, and I would encourage my colleagues in the majority to disband this far left, extreme agenda to face the crisis they have created. As we have talked about tonight, the debt continues to increase, and we need to focus on that. We need to focus on lowering the amount of ``free stuff'' that comes out of the United States Government and focus on what we need to do to help everyday Americans with the things that they go through and things that they have to deal with, their families and their small businesses. Again, I would like to close in thanking my friend, Jodey Arrington, for hosting this so that we can talk about, you know, the fiscal state of the country and what the problems are that we have to address going forward.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I rise on behalf of the people of the Fourth District of Kansas to pay tribute to Ralene Bergquist as she retires after 10 years of service in our congressional district. Ralene has been faithfully serving the people of Kansas' Fourth District for 10 years. She began with my predecessor, Congressman Mike Pompeo, before he went to be the CIA Director. Ralene was very familiar and a constant voice to help make sure that we had a smooth transition when I became a new Member of Congress for the Fourth District. Ralene's dedication and work have been very much appreciated and a great service to two Members of Congress, as well as the constituents of Kansas' Fourth Congressional District. I speak for myself and the entire D.C. and district staff when I say we will miss Ralene as she retires from congressional service. We are excited to see what the future holds for Ralene and wish her many blessings as she enjoys more time with her husband, Kansas State Representative Emil Bergquist, their children, and their grandchildren. Congratulations on a wonderful career, and thank you from a grateful district.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I rise on behalf of the people of the 4th District of Kansas to pay tribute to Ralene Bergquist as she retires after ten years of service to our congressional district. Ralene Bergquist has faithfully served the people of Kansas' Fourth Congressional District for ten years. She began her career as a U.S. House of Representatives district staffer during the tenure of my predecessor, former Kansas' Congressman Mike Pompeo. When Congressman Pompeo accepted the call to become Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, Ralene was instrumental in facilitating the smooth and successful transition when I first took office. Ralene joined my district office shortly after my special election. Despite all the changes that come with a change in a district's Member of Congress, Ralene remained as the familiar, constant voice and compassionate listener for the constituents of the Fourth District of Kansas. She has served as the friendly face in the lobby and office manager of our district office for five years, following her five years of service with former Rep. Pompeo. Ralene's dedication and work has been very much appreciated and a great service to two members of Congress as well as the constituents of Kansas' Fourth Congressional District. I speak for myself and the entire D.C. and district staff when I say we will miss Ralene after she retires from congressional service. We are excited to see what the future holds for Ralene and wish her many blessings as she enjoys more time with her husband, Kansas State Representative Emil Bergquist, their children, and their grandchildren. I congratulate Ralene on a wonderful career and say thank you from a grateful district.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following Roll Call votes. Had I been present, I would have voted as follows: Roll Call No. 152, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass bill (S.66) South Florida Clean Coastal Waters Act, I would have voted YEA; Roll Call No. 153, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended bill (H.R. 7077) Empowering the U.S. Fire Administration Act, I would have voted YES; Roll Call No. 154, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended bill (H.R. 1437) PRECIP Act, I would have voted YES; Roll Call No. 155, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass bill (S.1872) United States Army Rangers Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, I would have voted YEA; Roll Call No. 156, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended bill (H.R. 5911) Fair Hiring in Banking Act, I would have voted YES; Roll Call No. 157, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended bill (H.R. 5914) Empowering States to Protect Seniors from Bad Actors Act, I would have voted NO; Roll Call No. 158, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended bill (H.R.935) Small Business Mergers, Acquisitions, Sales, and Brokerage Simplification Act, I would have voted YEA; and on Roll Call No. 159 On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended bill (H.R.7066) Russia and Belarus Financial Sanctions Act, I would have voted YEA.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to call up H.R. 471, the PAUSE Act, to protect all Americans from Biden's border crisis.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, today I rise in support of SECURE 2.0. Since my time as Kansas State Treasurer and a member of the Ways and Means Committee, increased retirement security for Americans of all ages has been a major policy priority for me. Building on our great success with the SECURE Act in 2019, SECURE 2.0 includes a number of provisions for new employees and near-retirees, like my bill to improve the required minimum distribution rules, and my bill that would make it easier for employees to save for retirement and pay off their student loans. Employers who are part of an employee stock ownership plan--like the Kansas workers I have talked to at Inland Truck Parts, Conco, and others--benefit from the bipartisan ESOP provisions in SECURE 2.0. The bill also ensures public-sector and nonprofit retirement programs have the same access to low-cost retirements, just like for-profit retirement plans. It allows individuals who have decided to pay down a student loan instead of contributing to a 401(k) to still receive an employee match for their retirement plans. These commonsense retirement security reforms deserve to be law, and I strongly encourage my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on SECURE 2.0.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, the United States is the greatest market in the world to do business with. Our consumer spending is double that of the European Union, and more than triple that of China. Every country on Earth wants to do business with America. As we deal with the unjust invasion of Ukraine by Russia and continue to modernize our Nation's trade deals, like we did with the USMCA, we must keep in mind that the American marketplace is not something that is a right. It is a privilege for those that uphold international order. For far too long, many have overlooked repeated abuses by certain trading partners. For whatever reason, they decided it was okay for the United States to do business with those that lie, cheat, and steal in violation of international law. This has been a terrible mistake. Trade, when done right, is a critical boost to the economy and our families. When done poorly, it enriches our adversaries at the expense of those who do uphold the international system. It is clear that the unjust invasion of Ukraine by Russia cannot stand. Congress must make clear to the world that normal trade relations with the United States must be reserved for honest brokers that adhere to international order. This is the moment when irresponsible trade with the United States without consequence comes to an end.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for hosting this Special Order. Madam Speaker, for the past year, we have seen policies from the Biden administration devastate families and small businesses across the country. Moms in my district, like Meghan, have seen the cost of filling up their tanks and heating their homes continue to climb. The average American family will spend an extra $1,300 in gas this year. And Biden's Green New Deal energy policies have left us weak abroad and crushed us economically at home. The national average for a gallon of gasoline is now $4.17--the highest ever on record. There is nothing to stop that number from going even higher as we head into the summer. But the prices at the pump today are not the result of just the recent events in Eastern Europe. If we look at gas prices on January 21, 2021, just one day after President Biden took office, the national average was $2.40. One year later, on January 20, 2022--before Putin ruthlessly invaded Ukraine--the national average was already $3.33. President Biden and the Congressional Democrats are solely responsible for the year-over- year increase. And the anti-American energy agenda prevented the United States from maintaining our energy independence at a critical moment in history. That is why it is so important that we have good, permanent policies in place that encourage production here at home, keeping our prices low for American families and small businesses, and ensure that we maintain stability when bad actors disrupt the world. We should buy American first. We should buy American oil first. When the United States isn't reliant on foreign oil, we can better address the global threats of tyrants and dictators. Madam Speaker, it is time we prioritize American energy production again that will put American families first and keep our country safe.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I was not present for Rollcall vote Nos. 18 through 27. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Rollcall No. 18; NAY on Rollcall No. 19; YEA on Roll Call No. 20; NAY on Roll Call No. 21; NAY on Roll Call No. 22; YEA on Roll Call No. 23; NAY on Roll Call No. 24; NAY on Roll Call No. 25; YEA on Roll Call No. 26; and YEA on Roll Call No. 27.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I was not present for Roll Call No. 16, Providing for consideration of the bill H.R. 3485, Global Respect Act; providing for consideration of the bill H.R. 4445, Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act; and providing for consideration of the bill H.R. 4521, Bioeconomy Research and Development Act. Had I been present, I would have voted nay.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I was not present for Roll Call vote No. 15 on H.R. 5557, to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 3900 Crown Road Southwest in Atlanta, Georgia, as the ``John R. Lewis Post Office Building.'' Had I been present, I would have voted Yes.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, this week we look back over a year of failures; from the economy and crime to foreign policy and national security. There is not one area where a year of total Democrat control shouldn't receive an F. It is hard to believe it was only a year ago this Thursday that President Biden swore to uphold the Constitution just outside the building from where we stand today. Despite assuring the American people that he sought to unify the country, Biden's first hours in office were marked by divisive and controversial executive orders. Biden's incompetent economic policies destroyed our chance at a strong economic recovery and harmed hardworking families and small businesses. A year later, Americans are paying about 50 percent more each time they fill up their tank. That is after President Biden canceled the Keystone XL pipeline, halted new oil and gas leasing on Federal land, and proposed burdensome taxes and regulations on small energy producers. These policies all matter. They impact real people. That is why tonight I wanted to share some insight and experiences from folks in Kansas after a year of President Biden holding office. Nick, a new father in Derby, has certainly noticed the increase in fuel. He just had a baby last year and started a new job. Paying more at the pump means that he has less for his newborn's needs, and as every new parent knows, diapers aren't cheap. But that is not the only thing Kansans are paying more for. The Biden administration has directly caused rising prices by flooding the economy with their Big Government spending. The prices of many other everyday goods like beef, bacon, eggs, chicken, and coffee. That is a lot for any American, but it is especially noticeable for Nancy, a grandmother on a fixed income. She shared that each time she goes to the grocery store she notices her grocery bill keeps going up. That is not to mention bare shelves and out-of-stock items that many Kansans have experienced when they go shopping. Beyond the economy, we have witnessed the failure to keep our country safe from illicit drugs flowing into our country at the southern border. Executive orders have halted the production of a barrier at our southern border, and open border policies have allowed drugs and trafficking to become commonplace. Every State is now a border State, as fentanyl makes its way to communities in Kansas and across the country. CBP reports that more pounds of fentanyl were seized at the southern border than in the previous 2 years combined. In a recent survey, a majority of Kansans from my district told me the issues of most importance to them are the economy, rising prices, immigration, and our Federal deficit. It is time for Congress and the President to start addressing these core concerns. Americans cannot afford another year of radical socialist policies with this administration. I thank my good friend from Indiana for hosting this Special Order.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 50th anniversary of the passing of Vice Admiral Paul Frederick Foster, USN. Over his distinguished 23-year career in the United States Navy, Vice Admiral Foster became the first naval officer to be awarded the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Service Medal, and our Nation's highest military distinction, the Medal of Honor. Born in Wichita, Kansas, the son of a Congregationalist minister, he spent his early years traveling the west with his father, living in Kansas, Utah, Oklahoma, and Idaho before his appointment to the United States Naval Academy. At the academy, he reached the rank of cadet commander and served as commander of the Midshipmen Battalion. Upon graduation in 1911, he was assigned to various postings in the Caribbean Sea. In 1914, then-Ensign Foster took part in the Battle of Veracruz during the United States' intervention against Mexican dictator Victoriano Huerta. At the head of his company, he led his sailors ashore during the fighting on April 21 and 22, 1914. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his leadership, heroism, and courage under enemy fire. His commendation cites that ``Ens. Foster was eminent and conspicuous in his conduct, leading his men with skill and courage''. Upon his return to the United States in 1915, Vice Admiral Foster became one of the first American naval officers to undergo submarine instruction. He served as executive officer on the experimental submarine G-4 and participated in maneuvers along the Eastern Seaboard. When the United States joined the Allies in World War I, Vice Admiral Foster was sent to England and served on U.S. Submarine L-2. In 1918, he was awarded the Navy Distinguished Service Medal for his part in sinking one of the three enemy submarines sunk during the war. After World War I, he returned to peacetime duty back in the United States. In 1924, during a training accident on the USS Trenton, with total disregard for his safety, Vice Admiral Foster entered a burning gun turret and extinguished the fire both inside the turret and on the clothing of the crew members, saving their lives. For this act of valor, he was decorated with the Navy Cross. He retired from active duty in 1929 but remained a member of the Navy Reserve. Vice Admiral Foster was recalled to active duty in 1941 following the attack on Pearl Harbor. President Franklin D. Roosevelt directly tasked him to conduct special naval inspections worldwide during the Second World War. As Assistant Inspector General of the Navy, Vice Admiral Foster examined bases across the globe, overseeing operations and ensuring the security, effectiveness, and safety of U.S. naval operations in North America, Europe, and the Pacific. He received the Legion of Merit and Navy Commendation Medal for his essential service. He retired from the Navy fully in October 1946 with the rank of vice admiral. The end of his military service did not mark the end of his career in public service. In 1954, Vice Admiral Foster was appointed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to be the assistant general manager for international activities at the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) and later general manager of the commission, advancing the United States' peaceful pursuit of atomic power. Finally, in 1959, President Eisenhower appointed him permanent U.S. representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna, furthering U.S. leadership in managing the peacetime development of atomic science and technology through the ``Atoms for Peace'' initiative. During his service in Vienna, he had the opportunity to meet with several world leaders, including Pope John XXIII. After retiring in 1961, Vice Admiral Foster settled in Virginia Beach. He passed away on Jan. 30, 1972, at the age of 82. In a tribute to his years of service, the Spruance-class destroyer USS Paul F. Foster was named in his honor in 1976. A true American hero, Vice Admiral Foster's legacy lives on through his family, friends, and commitment to service to his country. I hope the rest of my colleagues will join me in honoring his memory on the 50th anniversary of his passing on Jan. 30, 2022.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 50th anniversary of the passing of Vice Admiral Paul Frederick Foster, USN. Over his distinguished 23-year career in the United States Navy, Vice Admiral Foster became the first naval officer to be awarded the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Service Medal, and our nation's highest military distinction, the Medal of Honor. Born in Wichita, Kansas, the son of a Congregationalist minister, he spent his early years traveling the west with his father, living in Kansas, Utah, Oklahoma, and Idaho before his appointment to the United States Naval Academy. At the academy, he reached the rank of cadet commander and served as commander of the Midshipmen Battalion. Upon graduation in 1911, he was assigned to various postings in the Caribbean Sea. In 1914, then-Ensign Foster took part in the Battle of Veracruz during the United States' intervention against Mexican dictator Victoriano Huerta. At the head of his company, he led his sailors ashore during the fighting on April 21 and 22, 1914. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his leadership, heroism, and courage under enemy fire. His commendation cites that ``Ens. Foster was eminent and conspicuous in his conduct, leading his men with skill and courage''. Upon his return to the United States in 1915, Vice Admiral Foster became one of the first American naval officers to undergo submarine instruction. He served as executive officer on the experimental submarine G-4 and participated in maneuvers along the Eastern Seaboard. When the United States joined the Allies in World War I, Vice Admiral Foster was sent to England and served on U.S. Submarine L-2. In 1918, he was awarded the Navy Distinguished Service Medal for his part in sinking one of the three enemy submarines during the war. After World War I, he returned to peacetime duty back in the United States. In 1924, during a training accident on the USS Trenton, with total disregard for his safety, Vice Admiral Foster entered a burning gun turret and extinguished the fire both inside the turret and on the clothing of the crew members, saving their lives. For this act of valor, he was decorated with the Navy Cross. He retired from active duty in 1929 but remained a member of the Navy Reserve. Vice Admiral Foster was recalled to active duty in 1941 following the attack on Pearl Harbor. President Franklin D. Roosevelt directly tasked him to conduct special naval inspections worldwide during the Second World War. As Assistant Inspector General of the Navy, Vice Admiral Foster examined bases across the globe, overseeing operations and ensuring the security, effectiveness, and safety of U.S. naval operations in North America, Europe, and the Pacific. He received the Legion of Merit and Navy Commendation Medal War for his essential service. He retired from the Navy fully in October 1946 with the rank of vice admiral. The end of his military service did not mark the end of his career in public service. In 1954, Vice Admiral Foster was appointed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to be the assistant general manager for international activities at the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) and later general manager of the commission, advancing the United States' peaceful pursuit of atomic power. Finally, in 1959, President Eisenhower appointed him permanent U.S. representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna, furthering U.S. leadership in managing the peacetime development of atomic science and technology through the ``Atoms for Peace'' initiative. During his service in Vienna, he had the opportunity to meet with several world leaders, including Pope John XXIII. After retiring in 1961, Vice Admiral Foster settled in Virginia Beach. He passed away on Jan. 30, 1972, at the age of 82. In a tribute to his years of service, the Spruance-class destroyer USS Paul F. Foster was named in his honor in 1976. A true American hero, Vice Admiral Foster's legacy lives on through his family, friends, and commitment to service to his country. I hope the rest of my colleagues will join me in honoring his memory on the 50th anniversary of his passing on Jan. 30, 2022.

Mr. ESTES

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I thank Ms. Tenney, and I appreciate that tribute to our great Senator from Kansas. Bob Dole touched so many people's lives around the country and around the world. I do want to just mention some of those folks that we have some comments from. So I will refer to some of those. Kansas is an agriculture State. Senator Dole served as the ranking member on the Senate Agriculture Committee from 1975 to 1978. The Kansas Association of Wheat Growers president, Justin Knopf, said, in part: ``Wheat farmers across Kansas are pausing to reflect and honor the life and legacy of Senator Bob Dole, a lifetime friend to Kansas wheat growers. Wheat fields planted to the variety bearing his name will carry extra significance this season as I and other farmers tend to them along their journey in producing grain to feed and nourish people. Senator Dole was an endless champion for farmers and also for those who were food insecure, and saw the potential in connecting grain from Kansas wheat fields to those here at home and around the world who were in need.'' Another thing, as we talk about Senator Dole, obviously we talk a lot about his involvement during World War II. As a World War II veteran, Bob Dole spent a great deal of time working to thank and assist the men and women who sacrificed for our country. Paralyzed Veterans of America National President Charles Brown released a statement saying, in part: ``PVA joins the Nation in mourning the passing of Senator Bob Dole and extends our heartfelt prayers to Senator Elizabeth Dole and the entire Dole family. Prior to becoming one of America's longest-serving U.S. Senators, Dole served in the U.S. Army and later became a decorated World War II veteran and two-time Purple Heart recipient. A champion of the Americans with Disabilities Act, he devoted his entire life to advancing the cause of people with disabilities as well as advocating for servicemen and women who sacrificed their lives for this Nation. Following his tenure in Congress, Dole worked tirelessly on seeking U.S. ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.'' The effects of war left Senator Dole with lasting challenges in his life, something that strengthened his resolve to help Americans with disabilities. Maria Town, president and CEO of the American Association of People with Disabilities, said in a statement: ``The world as we know it today is more accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities because of Senator Bob Dole. Senator Dole worked to elevate the voices and perspective of people with disabilities, encouraging greater leadership opportunities for disabled people, and sharing his experience of disability with his colleagues to build bipartisan consensus for disability policy issues. His passing represents an enormous loss for AAPD, the disability community at large, and the Nation.'' Senator Dole, through all of his work and his life activities, has earned the respect of countless leaders, including our former Presidents from both sides of the aisle. Former President Donald Trump released a statement saying: ``Bob Dole was an American war hero and true patriot for our Nation. He served the great State of Kansas with honor, and the Republican Party was made stronger by his service. Our Nation mourns his passing, and our prayers are with Elizabeth and his wonderful family.'' Former President Barack Obama said in part: ``His sharp wit was matched only by his integrity, and he lived his life in a way that made it clear just how proud he was to be an American and how committed he was to making this country everything he knew it could be.'' Many of us recall the moving moment when former President George H. W. Bush was lying in State and Senator Dole stood and saluted his friend. It was a moment that reminded us of patriotism, camaraderie, and devotion. His son and former President George W. Bush said: ``Laura and I are saddened by the passing of a great patriot, Senator Bob Dole. This good man represented the finest of American values. He defended them in uniform during World War II. He advanced them in the United States Senate, and he lived them out as a father, husband, and friend. Our entire family benefited from that friendship, including my father. I will always remember Bob's salute to my late dad at the Capitol, and now we Bushes salute Bob and give thanks for his life of principled service. Laura and I send our heartfelt condolences to Elizabeth and join our fellow citizens in prayer for her comfort.'' Former President Bill Clinton, his political rival, who would later honor the late Senator with a Presidential Medal of Freedom said: ``Bob Dole dedicated his entire life to serving the American people, from his heroism in World War II to the 35 years he spent in Congress. After all he gave in the war, he didn't have to give more. But he did. His example should inspire people today and for generations to come.'' Tonight, I and a lot of the speakers here have talked a lot about the life of Bob Dole, and we have talked about different things regarding his life in Russell, Kansas, the small town that he was born in and grew up in, and his early outlook as a football, basketball, and track star before the war cut that plan short for him. We talked a lot about his war service, talked a lot about how he was injured in the line of duty trying to rescue somebody else and suffered consequences of war, and the time it took for him to recover in the field, the hospitalization. His small town of Russell, Kansas, started a crowdfunding process to help him with his recovery, and there was actually a cigar box where friends and family members made donations to help with the 39 months that it took for Bob to go through his hospitalizations and his recovery. We have talked tonight about his years of service in the House and the Senate. We have talked some about his involvement with the World War II Memorial and how he was a big driving force on making sure that that memorial got implemented and was available for us as a country to see and recognize the work that the Greatest Generation did in keeping and providing the freedoms for us. We have talked some about the Honor Flights and the effort that Bob took. Even when the weather wasn't good, even when he may not have been feeling well himself, he would come out and greet all these World War II veterans and veterans from other wars who were coming to the memorial that he had helped implement. My father, before he passed away, was one of those veterans who was able to come and attend an Honor Flight and participate in that process. It meant so much to watch those veterans as they come through that process. They are actually like little kids again when they get off the bus and tour through the monuments. In some cases, they relive some past life, but in other cases, they just reconnect with their brothers in arms. We have talked some about Kansas, and we talked about the friends and family of Bob Dole. One of his favorite sayings was: ``Remember where you are from.'' That is important for us, particularly as Kansans, to remember where we are from and what we should do and what we should stand up for and be responsible for. I had the honor as State treasurer to participate in a lot of the stops through the counties that Bob Dole participated in, and it was a time for him to reconnect with old friends. It was amazing to see the respect and admiration that came from his fellow Kansans as they sat down and talked with their friend Bob. The funny thing about that, or the inspiring thing maybe is a better word for me to use, was just to watch his interaction with fellow Kansans, people who he may not have seen for years or in some cases decades, but he could talk about the same issues with them. He could talk about their family members, be able to connect with the stories that they had and be able to ask questions about: Now, do you still have that big rock on the hill that was in the way when you were trying to work through with the cropland? It was an interesting life to be able to watch and watch him lead. He has had an impact on not just Kansas but Americans and internationally. The influence on people who he has been able to touch throughout his life will never be known by all of us, but his engagement, his ability to win friends, his ability to help lead and solve problems will be forever admired. There is maybe a small army, if you want to call it that, of people who have worked with Senator Dole throughout his life and were engaged with him either as an intern or a staffer in his office or connected with one of his campaigns or connected with one of his causes that he got engaged in. It is important that all of us recognize the value that he has created for the world today. Last but not least, let's not forget his humor and wit. I mean, we talk about all the commentary, and several of the stories that were told tonight talked about the way he approached life and the comments that he made that were just reflective of what type of man he was. Mr. Speaker, I would just like to say, may God bless Bob Dole and care for his wife, Elizabeth, and daughter, Robin. Kansans, Americans, and people throughout the world will miss him, but we are better off for having known him and for his years of service that he provided to us. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, as a fellow Kansan, Bob Dole was able to reach out and have such an impact on so many people's lives across the country and, in some cases, across the world. I do want to make one comment about just one of the other people that Bob Dole actually touched in his life. There are countless Kansans that worked for Bob Dole and people from Kansas that were involved in the work that he did in the House and the Senate during his time there. It is amazing the number of people around D.C. or back in Kansas or elsewhere in the country. One particular staff member, David Spears, served for 3 years in Senator Dole's D.C. office as an agriculture legislative assistant and 4 years as state director in Kansas. He wrote me saying: ``It was an honor and privilege of a lifetime to serve on Senator Dole's staff and to serve the constituents of Kansas. I learned many leadership lessons from him that carried over into my additional years of public service as well as my career in the private sector. Senator Dole provided great examples of strong leadership that included listening to all sides and an ability to build a consensus on very difficult and divisive issues. He was a statesman and great American. He made a huge difference in my life and will be missed.'' Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Tenney).

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, it is great to be able to have broader reflections of Bob Dole and all of the things and the people that he has touched. He served, obviously, a long time in the Senate, including as majority and minority leader, and with his wife, Elizabeth as well. Madam Speaker, I actually have a couple of quotes from our current Senators from Kansas, and I wanted to just mention those as part of this Special Order hour tonight. The senior Senator from Kansas, Jerry Moran, said: Whether it was on the battlefields, in the Halls of Congress, or in his everyday life, Senator Dole's passion and dedication to his fellow Kansans and to his country was a steady reminder that a single person can make a difference and change the world. He held an unmatched patriotism born out of wartime sacrifice that marked every day of his existence. Yet rather than ask for help, he offered it. Senator Dole used his horrific wartime experience to be a champion every day for those with disabilities and for veterans, and I thank him for his service to Kansas and to this country. Senator Roger Marshall shared: ``As one the heroes from our Greatest Generation, you would be hard-pressed to find somebody with a bigger heart and more resilience than Senator Dole. He was an American hero, a statesman of the highest order, and one of the greatest legislators of all time. While he had incredible negotiating skills and was tough as nails, it was his huge heart and ability to work across the aisle that constantly led the way and delivered results for all Americans.'' Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Meijer), a U.S. Army veteran and a friend of mine.

Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, I thank my friend, Congressman LaTurner, for being here to be able to talk about our fellow Kansan and such a great American hero. At this time, Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Pelosi), the Speaker of the House.