Eni Faleomavaega

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Korean American Voters' Council for their continued commitment to the advancement of the Korean American community and to remind my colleagues about House Resolution 121, the ``comfort women'' resolution which was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on July 30, 2007. The Korean American Voters' Council was a strong advocate and key initiator in educating members of Congress on the ``comfort women'' issue three years ago when House Resolution 121 was passed. The Korean American Voters' Council is a grassroots non-profit organization built up of volunteers who work on constituency development, civic participation, voting rights advocacy, and community education within Korean American communities across the country. Friday, July 30, 2010, will mark the third anniversary of the passing of House Resolution 121. House Resolution 121 calls upon the Government of Japan to make an official and unequivocal apology, taking responsibility for the Japanese Imperial Armed Force's role in enslaving over 200,000 girls and women of Asia as ``comfort women'' before and during World War II. House Resolution 121 was sponsored by my distinguished colleague, Representative Michael M. Honda, and it was my privilege to serve as a co-sponsor of this bill and to hold the first hearing ever held in the U.S. Congress on this sensitive subject. The hearing was held before the House Foreign Affairs' Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific and the Global Environment on February 15, 2007 and paid tribute to those who suffered while acknowledging the past contributions of those Members of Congress like former Chairman Henry Hyde of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and also the late Congressman Lane Evans who also championed this cause. It has been three years since passage and the resolution clearly expressed a need for a formal acknowledgement and apology by the Government of Japan, through the Prime Minister to the victims of this atrocity. The Government of Japan has had multiple changes in the Prime Minister position and not one has formally acknowledged and apologized for this human rights violation. The victims are running out of time for this apology, as most of them are elderly, and the time is now for the Government of Japan to formally apologize for their past mistake. I strongly urge the Government of Japan to formally acknowledge and apologize in order to begin the reconciliation process and to create better relationships in the future. Japan cannot move forward by erasing the past and it is of the utmost importance that Japan follows through on House Resolution 121.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce a resolution for the United States to promote respect for and full application of the provisions of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, consistent with U.S. law. That Declaration is a landmark instrument outlining the rights of the world's 370 million indigenous peoples in 70 countries. A non-binding text comparable to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples sets out the individual and collective rights of indigenous peoples, as well as their rights to culture, identity, language, employment, health and education. The United States was one of only four member states of the United Nations to vote against the declaration in 2007, while 143 voted in favor. Three of the four states who initially voted against it have already reversed their opposition to the Declaration or are in the process of doing so. Meanwhile, the U.S. Government has launched a formal review of the Declaration to determine whether the United States will change its stance. Today, indigenous peoples face disproportionate discrimination, inadequate health care, violent crime, poverty, unemployment and environmental degradation even as they struggle to maintain their own institutions, cultures and traditions. The United States has taken great steps to improve the condition of indigenous peoples, including hosting a historic meeting of nearly 500 tribal leaders last year and President Obama's issuance of an Executive Order on Consultation and Coordination with Tribal Governments. Yet, as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice has said, ``far more must be done--at home and abroad--to tackle'' the challenges facing indigenous peoples. The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples provides an important framework for addressing indigenous issues globally. To further U.S. leadership in improving the conditions faced by indigenous people, the United States should promote respect for and full application of the provisions of the Declaration as soon as possible. I urge all my colleagues to join me and Representatives Ellison, Barbara Lee, Christensen, Grijalva, Hastings, Delahunt, Honda, John Lewis and George Miller in supporting this resolution and moving it toward speedy adoption.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today before you, expressing my strong support for H. Con. Res. 284, appreciating the work and recognizing the special education teachers of our nation. First, I would like to thank Congressman Pete Sessions of Texas and all of the co-sponsors, for recognizing these important people in our education system. I would also like to extend my gratitude to Chairman George Miller and Ranking Member John Kline of the Committee on Education & Labor for supporting this resolution. This bill recognizes the profound dedication that these teachers have for their students, and the general community. I would like to commend our special education teachers for continuing a phenomenal job. Not only do I respect their enduring patience and commitment, I applaud them on how much they have contributed to their local education systems. On a daily basis, these individuals must be able to motivate their students and push them past their limitations, and at the same time help them to mature and become productive members of society. Not only have these teachers helped the many special needs students to achieve in school, but they have also formed a support system for the many parents and families. They are the warm counsel to the students and their loved ones. They are entrusted to help the students succeed in their education. These teachers continue to encompass a genuine and dedicated work ethic. In American Samoa's education system, we have implemented a significant amount of special education programs into our schools. Importantly, we have integrated the special needs students in the mainstream education system. I would personally like to commend those teachers, for their enthusiasm and effort with our children. We, as the Congress, must continue to provide the tools and support for the special needs teachers and their students, especially during these times of economic strife. We are reminded that in 1972 the United States Supreme Court granted children with disabilities with the same right to receive `quality' education. Without our special education teachers and the efforts of many others to provide for the children with special needs, this clearly would not have been possible. Even as these individuals are faced with maybe, the most emotional and mentally stressful challenges, their continuous work in fostering and assisting our children is inspiring. I strongly urge my colleagues to pass this resolution.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of a young woman who has risen above very challenging circumstances, has attained an outstanding achievement, and serves as an example for other young people to follow.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Chair, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 5297, the Small Business Lending Fund Act of 2010. First I want to thank President Barack Obama for his foresight and recognizing the crucial function small businesses serve in our economy. I also want to thank Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the Chairman of the House Financial Service Committee, Mr. Barney Frank, for their leadership on this issue. This piece of legislation embodies a certain commitment to increase access to capital investments by a vital sector of the economy. As a major source of employment, increasing lending to small businesses is essential to achieve full economic recovery. Data shows that small businesses created about two out of every three new jobs across the country and I am pleased that small businesses in the Territories are eligible for the Federal programs created under H.R. 5297. Under Title I of H.R. 5297, the Secretary of the Treasury is authorized to establish a $30 billion Small Business Lending Fund (fund) to make capital investments in eligible banks. Eligibility is limited to community banks with total assets equal or less than $10 billion and according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) call report data for banks in American Samoa, ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank (AS Bank), with $132.884 million in total assets is a potential candidate. Based on criteria specified in the legislation, the AS Bank is eligible to receive up to 5 percent of its risk-weighted assets, or about $5 million. Instead of the 7 percent London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), AS Bank will pay a lesser rate of 5 percent, to be reduced further to 1 percent if AS Bank increases its small business lending by 10 percent or more. In addition, under Title II of H.R. 5297, the American Samoa Government (ASG) is eligible to apply for a grant of no less than $18 million to create a capital access program for small businesses in the Territory. As part of the grant application, ASG is to submit a proposal to the U.S. Treasury for approval that includes designs of a loan program and also designate a local agency to administer the program. Mr. Speaker, as our economy continues to slump under the strains of unemployment and the loss of revenue, this piece of legislation will provide much-needed capital investments to increase lines of credit available to small businesses across the country. I am pleased that the Federal programs will inject critical capital into the economy for small businesses to capitalize on. This legislation will go a long way to open up the flow of credit for small businesses that will help create more jobs not only across the country but also in the territories. I urge my colleagues to pass H.R. 5297.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 86) recognizing the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War and reaffirming the United States-Korea alliance, as amended.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the resolution under consideration.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of this joint resolution, and I yield myself such time as I may consume. This resolution before us today, House Joint Resolution 86, recognizes the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War and reaffirms the strong United States-Republic of Korea alliance. This resolution will help ensure that the bonds we forged in blood during the Korean War will never be forgotten. Today, the United States and Republic of Korea relationship is stronger than ever, encompassing social, cultural, economic, security and diplomatic relations. Last year's joint vision statement between our two nations provided an important reminder to the importance of the bilateral relationship between our two countries. Our two countries are working as closely as ever on the problems of North Korea, which is critically important since North Korea continues its provocations, including nuclear and missile tests and just recently the sinking of the South Korean ship, the Cheonan, which resulted in the deaths of some 46 sailors from this tragedy. With President Lee chairing the G-20 meeting this year in South Korea, this is certainly indicative of South Korea's prominence in international trade and economic development. For our part, Madam Speaker, I have long supported the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement to further such growth. I continue to hope that the Congress will also pass this free trade agreement as soon as possible because it will reinforce U.S.-Korean ties and create American jobs. And for the benefit of my colleagues, I want to note that this free trade agreement with South Korea will provide somewhere between $11 billion and $20 billion in export trade between our two countries which will be of tremendous benefit to both our countries. I also want to thank my dear friend, the gentleman from New York, Congressman Charles Rangel, for his service to our country during the Korean War, for his long and able service in the House of Representatives, and for his authorship of this important resolution. I also want to note our other colleagues who are also veterans of the Korean War, Congressman John Conyers of Michigan, Congressman Samuel Johnson of Texas, and Congressman Howard Coble of North Carolina. My apologies if I may have left out other Members. It was certainly not intentional, Madam Speaker, but I also want to thank them as well. Congressman Rangel fought in the Korean War from 1950 to 1952 as a member of the 503rd Battalion, an all-black artillery unit, in the 2nd Infantry Division. In late November 1950, his unit was engaged in heavy fighting in North Korea; and at the Battle of Kunu-ri, Congressman Rangel was part of a vehicle column that was trapped and attacked by the Chinese Army. During that attack, he was injured in the back by shrapnel from a Chinese bomb shell. In subzero weather, members of the 503rd Battalion looked to Rangel, then just a private first class, for his leadership. During 3 days of freezing weather, he led approximately 40 men from his unit out of the Chinese encirclement. When asked about his experience in battle, Congressman Rangel commented, ``That was the coldest place, ever, in the whole world. We lost a lot of guys who froze to death in their sleeping bags.'' Nearly half of the 503rd Battalion were killed in the overall battle. And might I mention, a battalion is composed of about 600 soldiers. So you can imagine if 50 percent of the 503rd Battalion were killed in the Korean War. Congressman Rangel was later recognized for his courage and awarded a Purple Heart for his wounds and the Bronze Star for Valor for his heroic efforts. In addition, he was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation and three battle stars. In summing up his experience, Congressman Rangel once said, ``Since Kunu-Ri--and I mean it with all my heart--I have never, never had a bad day.'' I might also note, Congressman John Conyers from Michigan served for 2 years in the Michigan National Guard starting in 1950. With the onset of the Korean War, he joined the U.S. Army and fought for 1 year as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. For his service, he was awarded both combat and merit citations. Congressman Sam Johnson began his 29-year career in the U.S. Air Force at the early age of 20. During the Korean War, he was stationed just 25 miles away from the front lines and flew 62 combat missions in his F-86 Saber jet fighter. In his plane, Shirley's Texas Tornado, named after his dear wife, Congressman Johnson scored one MiG fighter kill, one probable kill and one damaged. He flew on combat missions with Buzz Aldrin and John Glenn, and when he shot down the Russian MiG, he was so low on fuel that he actually had to glide back to Seoul. He went on to continue his outstanding military career through the Vietnam War as director of the Air Force Fighter Weapons School, known as Top Gun, and was one of the two authors of the air tactics manual revolutionizing military air dominance by incorporating three- dimensional flight. Our good friend, Congressman Howard Coble, meanwhile, served in the Coast Guard from September 1952 until September 1956, and was deployed to Korean waters during the war. I ask all of my colleagues to join me in honoring the sacrifices of these gentlemen, our colleagues, Congressman Rangel, Congressman Conyers, Congressman Johnson, and Congressman Coble, and the sacrifices of all of the other 1.8 million Americans who fought in the Korean War, as well as in recognizing the vital importance of the U.S.-Korean alliance by supporting this resolution; and also noting as a matter of history that over 30,000 of our soldiers died from that terrible conflict in South Korea. Committee on Armed Services, U.S. House of Representatives, Washington, DC, June 15, 2010. Hon. Howard Berman, Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives, Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Berman: I am writing to you concerning H.J. Res. 86, recognizing the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War and reaffirming the United States-Korea alliance. This measure was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, and Veterans' Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. Our Committee recognizes the importance of H.J. Res 86, and the need for the legislation to move expeditiously. Therefore, while we have a valid claim to jurisdiction over this legislation, the Committee on Armed Services will waive further consideration of H.J. Res 86. I do so with the understanding that by waiving consideration of the resolution, the Committee on Armed Services does not waive any future jurisdictional claim over the subject matters contained in the resolution which fall within its Rule X jurisdiction. Please place this letter and a copy of your response into the Congressional Record during consideration of the measure on the House floor. Thank you for the cooperative spirit in which you have worked regarding this matter and others between our respective committees. Very truly yours, Ike Skelton, Chairman.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, as a veteran of the Vietnam War, I am deeply honored to yield all the time he needs to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Rangel), the author of this resolution.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, how much time do I have left on this side?

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I would like to certainly compliment and thank our distinguished veterans of the Korean War, now Members, our colleagues here in this institution, for not only sharing with us their experiences, but the fact that this close relationship that we have with the Republic of Korea should never be lessened in any way. It's been my privilege over the years to have visited the Republic of Korea, visited with their leaders. And the outstanding results of now South Korea becoming one of the great economic powers of Southeast Asia, I might say, is mainly because of our close economic ties. I also want to note the fact that the number one electronic company in the world is in South Korea. Also, the number one shipbuilding company is in South Korea. I sincerely hope that in the coming months we will be able to continue to negotiate successfully the proposed free trade agreement that was done previously by the previous administration and negotiators. It's my understanding that as a result of this proposed free trade agreement we stand to gain at least somewhere between $11 to $20 billion in exports of our products to South Korea if we get an approval of this proposed agreement. I also want to note, as a matter of a little history, and complement what my friend from New York has stated about the people and the good leaders of South Korea. My own personal experience while serving in Vietnam, I tell you, you really know who your real friends are. The fact that there were 50,000 South Korean soldiers fighting alongside American soldiers in Vietnam, now that is where you really know who your real friends are. The leaders and the people of South Korea came and joined us in that terrible conflict that our Nation was confronted with in fighting communism. It's also my understanding that in the coming months, the President of Korea will be presiding over the G-20 meeting of 20 of the most prominent countries economically, and hopefully there will be better solutions given to the economic demise that not only the world is faced with now, especially the contributions that the 20 countries can offer in solving some of the serious economic problems that we are confronted with today.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I gladly yield to the gentleman from New York.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I thank the gentleman for his comments. I might also note, Madam Speaker, that out of some 15 million Asian Pacific Americans, we have well over 2 million Korean Americans as part of the fiber of our great democracy that have made tremendous contributions to our country. I wanted to just note that for the record. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I have no further speakers, but I do want to say for the record again, on behalf of a grateful Nation, to extend our heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the gentleman from New York, Mr. Rangel, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Coble, and Mr. Conyers for their contributions, and especially as veterans of the Korean War.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I do want to thank my good friend and colleague from Texas as well as our friend from the State of Hawaii for managing this important resolution. Madam Speaker, it is ironic that we just got through considering a resolution which commemorated the 60th anniversary of the Korean War. Four of our colleagues were veterans of that terrible conflict: Congressman Rangel, Congressman Sam Johnson of Texas, Congressman John Conyers of Michigan, and Congressman Howard Coble of North Carolina. The Korean War took 30,000 of our soldiers' lives. Let us not forget their sacrifice as we honor the celebration of the 235th birthday of the U.S. Army. It was my honor to have served as a member of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam conflict, Madam Speaker. I recall the time of the Revolutionary War and of George Washington, with some 12,000 soldiers who were not very well trained. They had to go up against some 30,000 British Redcoats, which was the most powerful military organization at that time, but we had to fight it. We won the war, giving credit to General George Washington and to those who were able to assist him. Madam Speaker, as a matter of history of the U.S. Army, during World War II, some 100,000 Japanese Americans were incarcerated in concentration camps. Despite all the discrimination, all the hatred, and all the racism that was heaped upon the Japanese Americans, they volunteered and organized the 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry brigade, which was sent to Europe. These two military organizations became among the most decorated ever in the history of the U.S. Army. As I recall distinctly of the 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry, some 18,000 individual decorations were given to the men who served, these Japanese Americans. Some 9,000 Purple Hearts were awarded, some 560 Silver Stars and 52 Distinguished Service Crosses--and ironically, only one Medal of Honor. Well, we corrected that. As a result of again reviewing the value and the courage of these Japanese American soldiers who fought during that time, 19 additional Medals of Honor were awarded because of what they had done during the war. I just wanted to note that as a matter of history. I want to commend the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Edwards) for his authorship of this resolution. I sincerely thank my good friend, Congressman Ortiz, for allowing me to say a few words in celebrating the 235th birthday of the U.S. Army.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Con. Res. 286, celebrating the 235th birthday of the United States Army. First, I would like to thank Chairman Skelton and Ranking Member McKeon of the Committee on Armed Services for bringing the resolution to the floor today. I also want to commend my good friend, Congressman Chet Edwards of Texas, for introducing this resolution as well as all of the other cosponsors for their rapid and strong support. The freedoms that this great country was built on were not formed out of peace and diplomacy, but out of necessity for war. The United States Army has ensured the safety and continuance of the freedoms won since the Revolutionary War that declared our independence from Great Britain. In 1775, the Continental Army was formed representing the thirteen American colonies consisting of a few thousand soldiers. Today, according to the Department of Defense, there are over 2 million personnel serving in our Armed Forces while 675,000 are either active duty or reserve in the U.S. Army. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely give my thanks to all the men and women who have served and are serving in the U.S. Army. As a Vietnam veteran, I appreciate the dedication and service of all those who have volunteered. The United States military is an essential component of our country's success and we owe them a debt of gratitude. Given that the average age of a soldier in the U.S. Army today is 22 years old, I would like to recognize the young men and women of this country for devoting themselves to maintaining the freedoms and rights enumerated by our founding fathers since 1776. The United States Army personnel, as well as all branches of the military, deserve not only our respect, but our recognition. Our United States military today is the strongest and fiercest volunteer force dedicated to protecting and defending our great nation. For this reason I would like to recognize all U.S. military personnel serving in our homeland and throughout the world. For their service, valor and commitment, we must honor the United States Army. I urge my colleagues to pass H. Con. Res. 286.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation to ensure that the flags of the several States, the District of Columbia, and the Territories of the United States encircle the Washington Monument. Standing at 555 feet and 5\1/8\ inches tall, the Washington Monument is the most prominent structure in the nation's capital and is the world's tallest stone structure and the world's tallest obelisk. Completed in 1884, it memorializes the first President of the United States, President George Washington, who led our country to independence and helped shaped the role of the presidency and the course of our democracy in its early days. It was most fitting then that Congress in 1833 established the Washington National Monument Society to create a monument in honor of the Father of our Country. Today, the Washington Monument serves as a reminder of the greatness of this Nation, as an object of pride to the American people and of admiration to all who see it. The legislation I am proposing directs the U.S. National Park Service through the Secretary of Interior, to ensure that the flags of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and the Territories of the United States encircle the Washington Monument. As an object of pride to the American people, I think it is most fitting that the flags of all States, DC and U.S. Territories are flown at the Washington Monument. Yesterday, we celebrated our national Flag Day by commemorating the adoption of the national flag of the United States as proclaimed by President Woodrow Wilson on June 14, 1916. As such, a public display of State and Territory flags at the Washington Monument will be an opportunity for each State and Territory to share its own uniqueness through its icons and figures representing the traditions, values, and local histories that collectively have made the United States. Flags have always been a part of our history and traditions. This legislation will ensure that every American will be part of one of our great national treasures.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 989, expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should adopt national policies and pursue international agreements to prevent ocean acidification, to study the impacts of ocean acidification, and to address the effects of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems and coastal economies. We know ocean acidification occurs as a consequence of high levels of man-made carbon dioxide emissions. But we do not know the full ramifications of ocean acidification. As H. Res. 989 suggests, the United States should pursue national and international activities and agreements to develop a full body of scientific research in addition to the work that will be done by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as part of the Federal Ocean Acidification Research and Monitoring Act of 2009. H. Res. 989 emphasizes that we must do more monitoring and research on ocean acidification in order to protect and preserve the ocean, which serves as a source of food, income and cultural identity for hundreds of millions people living in the United States and around the world. As Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Subcommittee for Asia, the Pacific and the Global Environment, I know firsthand how important it is for the U.S. Congress to act as a primary supporter of efforts aimed at curbing climate change and its consequences, including ocean acidification. And in representing a district whose livelihood and heritage were shaped by the South Pacific, preserving the ocean environment will always be one of my paramount concerns. I urge my colleagues to join with the 53 Members who have already cosponsored H. Res. 989 and support its passage.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 518, legislation honoring the life of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, explorer, researcher, and pioneer in the field of marine conservation. First I want to thank the chief architect, the gentle lady from Florida, Ms. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, for her leadership on this important resolution. I also want to thank the gentle lady from Guam, Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans and Wildlife, my good friend Madeleine Bordallo, and all my colleagues on the Natural Resources Committee for their support on H. Res. 518. This house resolution enjoys bi-partisan support as well as the blessings of the Cousteau family. And it is most fitting that we approve this measure to recognize the life and accomplishments of Jacques Cousteau on the 100th anniversary of his birth on June 11, 1910. Mr. Speaker, H. Res. 518 recognizes an exceptional individual that has left an indelible mark on marine science, research and conservation. Over the span of his career, Mr. Cousteau produced over 120 films, authored or contributed to 50 books, invented the skin diving gear, and was awarded the prestigious United Nations International Environmental prize as well as the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Ronald Reagan. In 1952-53, Mr. Cousteau sailed to the Red Sea on the Calypso and filmed the first color footage ever taken at 150 feet depth. Called ``The Silent World'', the documentary won the Academy Award for the Best Documentary Feature in the United States and was also awarded the top honor award at the Cannes Films Festival in 1956. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to know that the legacy of Cousteau lives on with his family. An article by Shelly Banjo in today's edition of the Wall Street Journal highlighted the works of Fabien Cousteau, grandson of Jacques Cousteau. Following the footsteps of his grandfather, the younger Cousteau is pursuing marine conservation projects to restore and protect bodies of water around the world. These efforts are not only important to sustain our oceans and marine resources, but they would also teach and educate everyone on the value of our oceans and aquatic life. At the time when our nation is facing one of its worst oil spills in our history, the legacy of Cousteau continues to serve as a reminder to all of us about the importance and values in marine conservation and about managing our natural resources. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 518.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise to bring to your attention an amendment that I proposed to H.R. 5136, the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2011, but unfortunately was not included for Floor consideration. This proposed measure would amend the appropriate section of the Non- Foreign Area Retirement Equity Assurance Act of 2009, Subtitle B of Title XIX of Public Law 111-84, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010, to allow otherwise eligible workers in American Samoa to be paid territorial cost of living adjustment (TCOLA) rates that match the now frozen TCOLA rates applying to Guam. Madam Speaker, just a year ago, the Non-Foreign Area Retirement Equity Assurance Act (NAREAA) was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 or Public Law 111-84. In essence, COLA would be phased out and locality pay would be phased in over 3 years for all current and future Federal employees, regardless of whether or not they received COLA payments. Before last year, American Samoa was the only non-foreign area in which Federal employees did not receive COLA. Notwithstanding that by law, Federal employees in the U.S. Territory of American Samoa were eligible to receive COLA payments, OPM decided not to create a separate non-foreign COLA-designated area for American Samoa. This was especially frustrating given that American Samoa faces many of the same issues, driving higher prices for goods, services, and travel that face other territories in similar situations, and its seemed discriminatory that the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has chosen not to provide COLA to Federal employees in American Samoa. These were the concerns that I continued to raise with OPM over the years but to no avail until last year and I want to thank my good friend from Hawaii, Senator Daniel Akaka for his leadership and efforts on this issue. As a result of NAREAA, GS and white-collar Federal employees in American Samoa are now receiving locality-pay. Madam Speaker, the enactment of Public Law 111-84 has made more glaring the discrepancy that continue to exist for USPS workers in American Samoa that were not receiving territorial cost of living adjustments (TCOLA) rates. Only Postal Inspectors and employees of the Postal Service Offfice Inspector General in non-goreign areas are receiving locality pay like other federal employees in the non-foreign areas. The rest of the USPS employees would continue to receive TCOLA payments. Unfortunately, USPS workers in American Samoa did not receive any adjustments called for under Public Law 111-84 as OPM has never designated American Samoa to receive TCOLA rates. Despite the fact that American Samoa by statute is eligible to receive TCOLA payments, OPM continues to deny American Samoa COLA-designation. Now that COLA is being phased out and we are now in the 10th pay period since locality pay kicked in and COLA rates have been frozen, it is highly unlikely OPM would ever establish American Samoa as a COLA area because there is not more COLA per se and other GS and white- collar Federal employees in American Samoa are now receiving locality pay. Therefore, the intent of my amendment is to give the USPS employees in American Samoa the same TCOLA treatment accorded to USPS employees in Guam. Madam Speaker, as I have been saying throughout all these years, it seems unreasonable that OPM asserts that the cost of living in American Samoa is not high enough to justify payment of COLA when no survey has even been conducted in American Samoa. Especially, American Samoa is about 8,000 miles away from Washington, DC with unique economic challenges and issues. Madam Speaker, while my amendment was not accepted by the U.S. House Committee on Rules, nevertheless, I will continue to pursue a solution to this critical issue for the people of American Samoa.the people of American Samoa.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I thank my fellow members of Congress who join us today in honoring Asian Pacific Heritage Month and I thank the gentleman from California, Mr. Honda, for sponsoring this resolution to recognize and honor the contributions of our Asian Pacific American community to this great nation. I also thank my colleagues who are members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, and all those who continue to address the issues facing the Asian Pacific American community, and ensure that our community has access to resources and a voice in government. Originally, Congress in 1978 designated the first week of May to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants and the completion of the transcontinental railroad that was built by the Chinese laborers. Every year since then, the President would issue an Executive proclamation from the White House to honor this month and direct all federal agencies and military installations throughout the country to conduct special events and ceremonies to honor our Asian- Pacific American communities throughout our country. The achievements and successes of Asian-Pacific Americans demonstrate, above all, that the greatness of our nation lies in its diversity and ability to accept peoples from all over world, as they pledge themselves to become fellow citizens of this great nation. Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander descent, over 16 million strong, are among the fastest growing demographic groups in the United States today, even though they make up only 9 percent of our nation's population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Asian American and Pacific Islander community is comprised of over 45 distinct ethnicities and over 28 language groups. In recent years, the Asian-Pacific American population has more than doubled and this rapid growth is expected to continue in the years to come--reaching 40.6 million by 2050, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. There are an unprecedented number of Asian-Pacific Americans in the fields of medicine, business, sports, academia, entertainment, and government, just to name a few. As Asian Pacific Americans serve in their respective fields, they share vast knowledge, experience and viewpoints that their unique backgrounds have contributed to. When I envision America, I don't see a melting pot designed to reduce and remove racial differences. The America I see is a brilliant rainbow--a rainbow of ethnicities, cultures, religions and languages with each person proudly contributing in their own distinctive and unique way for a better America. Asian-Pacific Americans wish to find a just and equitable place in our society that will allow them--like all Americans--to grow, to succeed, to achieve and to contribute to the advancement of this great nation. Surely Asian Pacific Americans have achieved many important milestones in the history of this nation. Yet while there remains much to be done, I am hopeful that the character of this great nation will ensure equity and access to all of our fellow American citizens from every racial, cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic background. I would like to close my remarks by asking all of us here--what is America all about? I think it could not have been said better than on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in that summer of 1963 when an African American minister by the name of Martin Luther King Jr., poured out his heart and soul to every American who could hear his voice, when he uttered these profound words, ``I have a dream. My dream is that one day my four little children will be judged not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.'' That is what I believe America is all about. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1385, to recognize and honor the courage and sacrifice of the members of the Armed Forces and veterans for their service to the people of the United States. First I want to thank Chairman Ike Skelton, and Ranking Member Howard ``Buck'' McKeon, of the Armed Services Committee, for their leadership and for championing the cause of our military men and women and our veterans. In this month of May known as National Military Appreciation Month, it is important to take time from our busy schedule to recognize and celebrate the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces and veterans, and again I commend Chairman Skelton and Ranking Member McKeon for introducing this resolution. Mr. Speaker, as a Vietnam veteran, I want to thank all members of the Armed Forces and veterans for their service to this great nation. I especially want to recognize the service and sacrifice made by the sons and daughters of American Samoa to protect this great nation. I am most proud to state for the record that American Samoa's sons and daughters have served in record number in every U.S. military engagement from WWII to the present. Indeed, located some 3000 miles from Hawaii, the American Samoa reserve unit is under the only remaining infantry unit of the U.S. Army Reserve, the 100th battalion of the 442nd Infantry Regiment, or the ``Purple Heart Battalion'' based at Fort Shafter, Hawaii. As a true testament to the sacrifice made by our brave warriors from American Samoa, I am always reminded of retired Command Sergeant Major Falaniko and his late son Private Jonathan I. Falaniko. PVT Falaniko attended basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, in May 2003 and was later deployed to Iraq in August 2003. He was then assigned to the 70th Engineer Battalion under the 1st Armored Division, Engineers Brigade of which his father, CSM Ioakimo Falaniko, was the Command Sergeant Major of the brigade and was the most senior enlisted soldier. On October 27, 2003 PVT Falaniko was killed by a rocket-propelled grenade attack. Twenty-year-old Jonathan Falaniko had been in the U.S. Army for less than 6 months. He was laid to rest with all the other brave men and women that have served this great nation, at the National Cemetery in Arlington. Jonathan's story is only one of thousands of the many Americans who have given the ultimate sacrifice for this great nation. Mr. Speaker, it is customary in the Samoan culture to recognize great deeds and exceptional feats in speeches, songs and storytelling so that they are memorialized and imbedded in the hearts and minds of generations to come. Therefore, I rise today with great honor in support of H. Res. 1385 to recognize the service and courage of all our servicemen and women and veterans. Let us honor their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice so much to bring about peace and freedom in a troubled world. To our veterans and current service members, and especially to American Samoa's Reserve unit scattered throughout the Middle East, I would like to close by saying how honored and proud I am of your service to this great nation and I commend you for your courage. May God bless you and may God continue to bless the United States of America. I strongly urge my fellow colleagues to pass this resolution.