Pat Fallon

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I am opposed to this bill for procedural reasons. The House Oversight and Reform Committee's agreed-upon procedures for considering postal naming bills clearly dictate several requirements for such measures to advance through the House. Among those is the requirement that postal naming bills be cosponsored by the entire State delegation before it will be considered in the Oversight Committee, and then they proceed to the floor. There are very good reasons for these requirements. This is to ensure that the State's collective representation agrees that such a local hero deserves this high honor and the attention of the full Congress. Unfortunately, this bill is only cosponsored by 34 of the 36 Members of the Texas delegation, which means it is not ready for consideration here today. Furthermore, this bill has not even been marked up by the committee of jurisdiction in the House Oversight Committee, which means it is bypassing regular order to come straight to the House floor. This is a departure from past precedent and procedure. Following regular order and past practice on these measures prevents wasting valuable time and resources here on the House floor. There are dozens of other bills that have earned the support of their entire State delegations and have also been unanimously approved by the House Oversight Committee. We should be spending the valuable time on this floor that we have remaining in this Congress considering these other bills that are higher in the queue, some of which were introduced in the first half of last year. For these reasons, I cannot support H.R. 8203, which breaks with our agreed-upon process. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 8025 honors former Congressman Martin Olav Sabo, a longtime Representative from Minnesota. The Congressman served 28 years in the House of Representatives, eventually becoming chair of the House Budget Committee. One of his proudest achievements was putting together a Federal budget and a deficit reduction package in 1993 which later would result in budget surpluses. Prior to his election to Congress in 1978, he served 18 years in the Minnesota State Legislature including serving as house minority leader and speaker. He passed away, sadly, in 2016 at the age of 78. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I have no further speakers, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4899, which honors Neal Kenneth Todd, a former World War II U.S. servicemember and Purple Heart recipient. At the age of 22, Todd was assigned to the USS Oklahoma as a Navy Fireman First Class, where he was stationed on December 7, 1941, which President Roosevelt, standing right below where you are, Madam Speaker, said, a day which will live in infamy, when the ship was attacked by the Japanese Air Force at Pearl Harbor. The USS Oklahoma capsized, and Todd's fate was unknown to his family for months. He was eventually pronounced dead. His remains, along with the remains of other servicemembers, were recovered in the months following the attack but did not begin to be identified by the U.S. Department of Defense until 2015. At long last, on February 11, 2021, Todd's remains were successfully identified and reunited with his brother, Orville, and his sister, Karen. Todd was laid to rest with full military honors alongside his younger brother, Alfred, who also served in the Navy. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill honoring an American servicemember and hero who made the ultimate sacrifice for our great Nation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 3825, which honors the late Congressman Ron Wright of Texas, a great American and a gentle soul. Many of us in the House of Representatives today served with Congressman Wright in the 116th and 117th Congresses. A native Texan, Congressman Wright proudly represented Texas' Sixth Congressional District, stretching from Arlington down past Mansfield toward Corsicana. He kept up rigorous work schedules in D.C. and back in Texas, in his district, and he was fondly received; while simultaneously serving in Congress, he was being treated for lung cancer. Prior to his election to Congress he served North Texans as the Tarrant County Tax Collector, Chief of Staff for Congressman Joe Barton, and Mayor Pro-Tem of the city of Arlington, Texas. He was reelected to Congress for a second term in November of 2020 but, sadly, died February 7, 2021, just 1 month into this new Congress. Congressman Wright was a true public servant, a good friend, and a loyal American. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Ellzey), my good friend, a Naval aviator, a former Texas House member, a Southwest Airlines pilot, a great American, and one heck of a flag football player.

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I encourage all of our colleagues to support this bill honoring a loyal, public servant, and as Representative Ellzey just said, a gentleman and a gentle man, Ron Wright. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Staff Sergeant Johnny Kirk with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Air Force exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Staff Sergeant Kirk is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Staff Sergeant Kirk served in the Vietnam War as a weapons specialist where he loaded ammunition and rockets onto OV-10s. He also performed as a spotter in the OV-10s, directing artillery fire and close air support needs. He served a total of fifteen months in Vietnam including twelve months with no leave. Staff Sergeant Kirk's tour of duty was unexpectedly extended an extra three months. Yet, he maintained his quality of service as a patriot without complaint. To express the sacrifice made, Staff Sergeant Kirk's tour in Vietnam caused him to be classified as a disabled veteran due to Agent Orange exposure. After discharge, Staff Sergeant Kirk became a CPS investigator and served many years as a CPS Investigative Supervisor. His work in training other investigators has affected every law enforcement agency in Grayson County. In addition, he has taught Texas Family Code and investigation classes at the Grayson County Police Academy. After retiring from the CPS Investigative Agency after 26 years, Staff Sergeant Kirk has become an ordained Baptist Minister and continues to teach Sexual Assault Prevention classes to the public. I am beyond honored to have Staff Sergeant Kirk in Texas' 4th Congressional District and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Lieutenant Colonel Dudley Nosworthy with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Army and United States Army National Guard exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Lieutenant Colonel Nosworthy is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Lieutenant Colonel Nosworthy served in Infantry Leadership Assignments as a Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer, Company Commander, and Battalion Executive. His responsibilities included training soldiers in Civil Defense Operations for State National Disasters, Deployment for Homeland Defense Missions, and Overseas Contingency Operations. Lieutenant Colonel Nosworthy was vital for preparing and training soldiers to protect our Nation at the State and national levels. As a Battalion Commander and Regimental Deputy Commander for the 136th Regional Training Institute, Lieutenant Colonel Nosworthy assisted the Texas Army National Guard by training soldiers in professional development and military occupational skills. Lieutenant Colonel Nosworthy also dedicated time and effort towards bettering the State of Louisiana through the Louisiana Army National Guard. While serving in the Army, Lieutenant Colonel Nosworthy was deployed to Baghlan Province, Afghanistan as a Combat Advisor and Team Chief for a police mentoring team. He served as the Senior U.S. Army Advisor for the province and assisted in training the Afghan National Police in Security Force operations. Lieutenant Colonel Nosworthy has served his community as a Sergeant with the Dallas Police Department. He also donated his time as an Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 83 out of Rockwall, Texas. As an accomplished Eagle Scout, he continues to promote the ideals of hard work and service to future generations. I am beyond honored to have Lieutenant Colonel Nosworthy in Texas' 4th Congressional District and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Seaman James Murphey with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Navy exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Seaman Murphey is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Seaman Murphey is a true American patriot who served during the Korean war. He was aboard the USS Seminole which transported many prisoners of war. The ship was considered an attack cargo ship and the Seminole won herself the distinction for being one of the busiest cargo handling vessels throughout WWII and the Korean war. Seaman Murphey stepped up to the challenge when his country needed him the most. With no complaint, Seaman Murphey entered the Korean war with patriotism and grit. As a Storekeeper, his various responsibilities revolved around maintaining the ship. Seaman Murphey is a man who has lived a life full of perseverance and the mindset of never backing down from hardships. But maybe most important of all, Seaman Murphey is a true family man, sometimes working two or three jobs at once to support his wife and four children. I am beyond honored to have Seaman Murphey in Texas' 4th Congressional District and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Chief Warrant Officer Ralph O'Dell with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Army exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Chief Warrant Officer O'Dell is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Chief Warrant Officer O'Dell served overseas during WWII in the Pacific Theater. He had the ambition of fighting for freedom and democracy across the world. Specifically, Chief Warrant Officer O'Dell's skill set was on display in New Guinea, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign, and the Liberation of the Philippines. Throughout Chief Warrant Officer O'Dell's 42 years of service in the Army, he served as an Azimuth Tracker where he fired anti-aircraft artillery 40-millimeter guns. In addition to his time on the battlefield, he was a clerk-typist as an instructor in Finance and Personnel. Chief Warrant Officer O'Dell attended the 4150th U.S. Army Reserve School in Dallas. His expertise was valued by Reserve Units out of Dallas, Waco, and Lubbock. Chief Warrant Officer O'Dell's time after his military service involves his continued passion to better his community. Organizations such as: Rotary International, Silver-Haired Legislature, Reserve Officers Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and American Legion have all benefited from Chief Warrant Officer O'Dell's knowledge, experience, and dedication. I am beyond honored to have Chief Warrant Officer O'Dell in Texas' 4th Congressional District and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life and service of Daniel Archie Flynn of Van, Texas. Mr. Flynn is survived by his wife Susan, his son Josh, his daughters Tammy and Missy, along with many more grandchildren and great grandchildren Mr. Flynn's lengthy public service career began as a soldier in the 36th Infantry Division of the Texas Army National Guard during the Vietnam War. In 2005, he joined the Texas State Guard and eventually obtained the rank of Brigadier General, where he later retired, As a State Representative, first elected in 2002, Mr. Flynn served for nine consecutive terms until 2020. During his tenure, he built an impressive portfolio of legislative achievements, including expanding transparency in State government, strengthening border security, and modernizing the Texas Military Forces. Moreover, Representative Flynn helped secure funding for a new music hall and planetarium at the Texas A&M University at Commerce and procured the property for the Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial site in Canton, Texas. Representative Flynn's work as the Deputy Banking Commissioner of Texas reformed banking code statewide and established him as a leader in the banking industry. A lifelong worshipper of the Church of the Nazarene, Representative Flynn was instrumental in the construction of several new churches. He served on the Dallas District Advisory Board for over 20 years and was also an active member of the Van Kiwanis and Canton Lion's Club. Likewise, Representative Flynn founded the Van Zandt County Council of Communities. I have requested the United States flag be flown over our Nation's Capitol to recognize Representative Dan Flynn's extensive contributions to District 2 and the great people of Texas. Representative Flynn will be dearly missed by his friends, family, and colleagues.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored to present 1st Class Petty Officer John Edward Page, U.S. Navy with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the Navy exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. This is a very humble gentleman who is committed to being good to others and honoring his sacred Nation. During his 10 years of military service in the Navy, 1st Class Petty Officer Page served by operating sonar radar missiles on Naval ships that have contributed to victories on the battlefield and had received many service accommodation awards while in Vietnam. After proudly serving the Navy and defending our Nation, 1st Class Petty Officer Page has been incredibly active in his community and has participated in prominent positions since his exit. This includes his time given to not just work at Texas Instruments in Sherman, Texas, but to come out of retirement to help set up divisions of the company all over the world. His passion for his community also shines as he will operate on, and repair vehicles for people free of charge, or help those in need through his small property rental business. First Class Petty Officer Page has been more than helpful, he has been life changing for a lot of people in his community and throughout his service. I am beyond honored to have 1st Class Petty Officer Page in Texas' 4th Congressional District and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Chief Petty Officer John Turner Jr. with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Navy exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Chief Petty Officer Turner is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Chief Petty Officer Turner served in the Navy as a Cryptologic Technician Technical. With such a talented mind in intelligence and cryptology, Chief Petty Officer Turner assisted with airborne, shipborne, and land-based radar signals. Chief Petty Officer Turner's tenure in the military consisted of time aboard submarines and surface ships in many locations across the world. From Guam, Germany, Japan, and across many stops from sea to shining sea across America, Chief Petty Officer Turner served with no complaint wherever he was deployed. Chief Petty Officer Turner used his impressive skill set in operating electronic intelligence-receiving and direction-finding systems, digital recording devices, and analysis terminals. American intelligence is the best in the world because of brilliant patriots like Chief Petty Officer Turner. Since his retirement from the military, Chief Petty Officer Turner has been an active member in the community with active involvement as a Commander in Hunt County Chapter 81 Disabled American Veterans, as a councilman on the Greenville City Council, and as a service officer connecting veteran families to benefits they earned. I am beyond honored to have Chief Petty Officer Turner in Texas' 4th Congressional District and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Private James Scott with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Army exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Private Scott is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Private Scott served as a Private to Sergeant 1st class in the United States Army. His devout service led him around the world, including deployments in Japan and Korea. With no complaint, Private Scott was drafted during a time of uncertainty and bravely defended the principles of our great Nation against the evils of communism during the Korean War. Private Scott's responsibilities in the Army gave a massive advantage to the United States. He was in charge of a section that fought the enemy, including backup infantry and anti-aircraft half-attacks. Only special servicemen have the ability to perform such leadership as Private Scott has shown. Even at the ripe age of 93, Private Scott continues to attend Korean veteran functions and events to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. As a true American patriot, he continues to serve those with pride. I am beyond honored to have Private Scott in Texas' 4th Congressional District and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Gunnery Sergeant Richard Hall, United States Marine Corps with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Marine Corps exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Gunnery Sergeant Hall is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. During his years of military service in the Marine Corps, Gunnery Sergeant Hall has served in a plethora of incredibly important positions such as a Marine rifle, infantry leader, communications, recruiting duty, a combat leader in Vietnam where he spent 23 continuous days in battle, as well as the Two Tours of Combat Duty. Not only is his dedication to his country shown through 23 straight days of warfare, but to serve one's Nation for twenty-one straight years is very admirable. Gunnery Sergeant Hall has also shown his adaptability by serving in many locations around the world such as San Diego Naval base, Camp Pendleton, Japan, Dallas, Vietnam, Texas Recruiting Center, and Pacific Command Hawaii with Weapons protection command. After serving for twenty-one years, Gunnery Sergeant Hall retired in 1975 with many awards including the Bronze Star Medal with combat ``V'' device; and was awarded two Purple Hearts for battle wounds. I am beyond honored to have Gunnery Sergeant Hall in Texas' 4th Congressional district and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Corporal Bob Kerr with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Marine Corps exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Corporal Kerr is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Corporal Kerr served as a Squad Leader for the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego. He was a very skilled and qualified Rifle Expert and had obtained the highest score in the Depot. Due to his raw talent and impressive rifle skills, Corporal Kerr was promoted to Lance Corporal in less than a month. With his eventual promotion to Corporal, Corporal Kerr was a great resource for the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. Corporal Kerr also served overseas in Vietnam. His specific service in Dong Ha, Hue City, Chulai, Phu Bai, and Quangtri exemplifies his passion and dedication to supporting the Nation he loves. As Squad Leader, Corporal Kerr oversaw four squads per platoon and also served as an Ammunition Technician. Corporal Kerr's long list of medals, awards, and honors include one representing the ultimate sacrifice of service. While in Vietnam, Corporal Kerr earned a Purple Heart. Today, Corporal Kerr serves the Sulfur Springs Community and those around him. He serves as a Judge Advocate with the Hopkins County Marine Corps League and rides in motorcycle events that honor fellow veterans. As a combat veteran from the Vietnam era, he attends various patriotic assemblies in both Franklin and Hopkins Counties. I am beyond honored to have Corporal Kerr in Texas' 4th Congressional district and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Major Michael Hogge with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Air Force exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Major Hogge is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Major Hogge served as a Captain Chief of Logistics for the Air Force where he contributed his expertise and knowledge as a maintenance manager for over ten years. With a brilliant mind in logistics, he contributed his skill set in fixed, tactical, and airborne systems. Major Hogge has undergone extreme training in electronics, including the formal Air Force electronics systems training, accompanied by many years of experience as an electrician technician. Throughout his military deployment, Major Hogge was known as an effective manager which he applied to everyday life. Major Hogge's life in service did not end with his retirement from the military. He continues to support various veteran community events in Hunt County and donates his time to local military fundraisers such as 1000 Miles Till Home. As an avid leader in his community, Major Hogge is a true patriot to those around him. Whether it's using his repair skills through his church or building homes for the impoverished in Mexico, Major Hogge is defined by humbly dedicating his life to service. I am beyond honored to have Major Hogge in Texas' 4th Congressional district and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Sergeant John Herrington with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Army exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Sergeant Herrington is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Sergeant Herrington was called to serve as a volunteer. As a Tank Crewman in Vietnam, he was a much-needed asset for the United States. Sergeant Herrington served in the U.S. Army with great passion and dedication to serve and deliver a great sacrifice. Sergeant Herrington was even willing to lose both of his legs in battle to support his country in the Vietnam war. A perfect example of a patriot who deserves one of the most decorated medals, a recipient of a Purple Heart. Sergeant Herrington did not let his new challenge stop him from continuing to live a productive life. He has held several professions including truck driver and gunsmith. During his free time, he is involved in the community and VFW activities. He serves as a Commander of the local chapter of Patriot Guard in which he uses his love of motorcycles to honor veteran funerals. Upon delivering Sergeant Herrington with congratulating him for receiving this prestigious award, I was informed by my staff that though Sergeant Herrington may have lost both legs in battle, he still managed to persevere and walk across the stage to acknowledge the message. It is the great people of Lamar county that amaze me the most. The fact that Sergeant Herrington has never backed down from a challenge and continues to press on with no complaints as to why I feel so lucky to recognize his sacrifices. I am beyond honored to have Sergeant Herrington in Texas' 4th Congressional district and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his true American grit.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Chief Petty Officer Robert ``Bob'' Dunn with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Navy exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Chief Petty Officer Dunn is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Chief Petty Officer Dunn spent many years supporting the Navy with his decorated engineering knowledge and skill set. He was first ported in Hawaii on USS Tunny SSN-682 as a reactor operator and electronic technician. He relayed his experience to new servicemen through teaching at the Electronics Technician Maintenance School in Hawaii. Chief Petty Officer Dunn was promoted aboard USS Los Angeles where he became a Chief Petty Officer in the Reactor Controls Division as well as a Reactor Operator and Engineering Watch Supervisor. Chief Petty Officer Dunn served during the Cold War at a time in our nation's history when young minds in engineering and nuclear power helped propel America above the Soviet Union. Chief Petty Officer Dunn's time of service also included five Western Pacific deployments and an Eastern Pacific Deployment. As a submarine sailor back in the 1980s, Chief Petty Officer Dunn worked long hours at the port, including 24-hour duty days. His submarine deployed for three to six months at a time which created challenges for his family. But above all, Chief Petty Officer Dunn persevered and demonstrated grit and passion to serve his country. After retiring, Chief Petty Officer Dunn continued to embody a true American patriot through his involvement in the community as a Party Precinct President of the Royal Kunia area in Honolulu and a member of the Freemasons in Hawaii. I am beyond honored to have Chief Petty Officer Dunn in Texas' 4th Congressional district and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Petty Officer Harold Scott with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Navy exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Petty Officer Scott is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Petty Officer Scott is a true American patriot whose sacrifices truly bettered the United States of America. As a volunteer, Petty Officer Scott was willing to risk his life to protect the freedoms he takes pride in. Petty Officer Scott held multiple positions as a versatile serviceman. As a Fireman in the engine room, he maintained order and created an environment of order to ensure nothing would happen to the ship. During a time when the United States of America needed strong young men to step up, Petty Officer Scott certainly delivered during his time in the Korean War. Serving across various ports on the east coast, west coast, and along the Mediterranean sea, Petty Officer Scott sacrificed all he could with no complaint. I am beyond honored to have Petty Officer Scott in Texas' 4th Congressional district and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Commander Bryan Crittendon with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Navy, United States Marine Corps, and State Guard exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Commander Crittendon is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Commander Crittendon served as a transport helicopter pilot during his time in the Marine Corps where he assumed the titles of Captain and Pilot. His service spanned the globe protecting American Sovereignty and the Constitution. His skill set and passion were practiced in service across: Beirut, Southern Europe, Iraq, the Persian Gulf, and Afghanistan. Commander Crittendon ministered to many servicemen and their families as a Military Chaplain. His original mission was to fly, his service in ministry began after the 9/11 attack to preach to Marines in combat. Commander Crittendon's work as a chaplain extended across multiple positions including: USMC Battalion Chaplain, USMC Wing Chaplain, U.S. Coast Guard Chaplain, Naval Air Station Fort Worth Command Chaplain, and Naval Air Station Pensacola Command Chaplain. Commander Crittendon continues to commit his life to service even after his discharge. While supporting a local rural church, his desire to aid fellow veterans has led him to become a member of the Marine Corps League. Despite being 70 percent disabled, Commander Crittendon has become a certified Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Trainor. I am beyond honored to have Commander Crittendon in Texas' 4th Congressional district and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored with the privilege of presenting Corporal Charles ``Charlie'' S. Cooper, U.S. Army/Air Force with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Throughout his life, Charlie was known for being a jack of all trades but remains humble and kind. During his 3 years of military service, Corporal Cooper had some very important duties. Charlie's squadron was top secret, monitoring and decoding Japanese communication regarding the movements of the enemy and upcoming attacks on America and allied forces. Because his squadron was able to break up the codes and could relay the information within the strict timelines of the Japanese, the Air Force was able to eliminate incoming enemy attacks. While he served, Charlie was stationed in many different countries across the Pacific Theatre, including New Guinea, Dutch East Indies, the Philippines, and Tokyo where he was stationed when WWII ended. Other than defending our nation, Charlie worked in the Aircraft manufacturing industry for 29 years, where he worked from maintenance all the way up to become a manufacturing foreman. He has many hobbies which consist of staying active in his church, where he sung in the choir until recently. One of the reasons Charlie resides in Rains County is because he wanted to enjoy his favorite past time, bass fishing, where he could do so on Lake Fork. I commend Corporal Cooper for his undoubtedly brave service to this country and his community. He is a fitting recipient of a Congressional Veteran Commendation and I celebrate his service.

Mr. FALLON

Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Lieutenant Colonel Dewey Ray Collier II with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Army exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Lieutenant Colonel Collier is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. Lieutenant Colonel Collier began his military duty as a Non- Commissioned Officer where he was assigned as a Platoon Sergeant. Leading twenty enlisted soldiers whose responsibility was to upkeep and operate twelve UH1H Helicopters, Lieutenant Colonel Collier played a crucial role in supporting combat and non-combat missions. With the promotion to Junior Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Collier was tasked with caring for neonatal infants and providing emotional support to families. Lieutenant Colonel Collier began his medical responsibilities for the military as a Mid Level Officer. Using decorated medical knowledge and an impressive skill set, his involvement in life-saving surgery and non-combat surgical procedures included: open heart, vascular, neurology, and trauma nursing duties. Upon his promotion to Senior Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Collier continued challenging the lives of servicemen by coordinating all aspects of surgical services. After the attack on the twin towers in 2001, Lieutenant Colonel Collier deployed to support Operation Enduring Freedom, spending time in Kuwait as part of the 555th Forward Surgical Team. His unit extended its duties in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom where Lieutenant Colonel Collier's unit became the first unit to reach Baghdad. Lieutenant Colonel Collier is a true American patriot who comes from a long line of veterans who have fought in every American war since the Revolutionary War. National pride is truly built into his DNA. I am beyond honored to have Lieutenant Colonel Collier in Texas' 4th Congressional district and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.