Rodney Frelinghuysen

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the 75th Anniversary of the Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association of Parsippany, NJ. Lake Parsippany sits in the center of the Township of Parsippany Troy-Hills, Morris County, NJ. The lake and grounds cover 168 acres and offer well kept swimming beaches as well as many different recreational areas to enjoy the summer. Boating, fishing, volleyball, and horseshoes, are just a few of the many sporting activities enjoyed at Lake Parsippany. Lake Parsippany began in the early 1930's when the New York Daily Mirror, part of the Mirror Holding Corporation, purchased a large expanse of pasture and farmland in The Township of Parsippany. They dug out 159 acres and constructed a dam that formed Lake Parsippany, which became the headwaters for Eastman's Brook. The Mirror Holding Corporation made the 7,916 lots surrounding the lake available to anyone agreeing to subscribe to the Daily Mirror for at least six months. Lots measured 20 by 100 feet and were offered for $98.50 each. A minimum of two lots had to be purchased to build a cabin. On October 29, 1933 the Mirror Holding Corporation held a meeting at Lake Parsippany. The meeting was attended by approximately 1,500 people. The meeting formed an incorporated organization of lot owners. The Mirror Holding Corporation then turned over the property to the new organization, The Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association. Today, the Lake Parsippany Property Association is supported by member volunteers. The membership seeks to preserve the natural beauty of the lake through its fees, and through active volunteer participation in the community. Madam Speaker, I urge you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the dedicated people of the Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association on their 75th anniversary.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, in compliance with new ``earmark'' disclosure procedures adopted by the House Republican Conference, I hereby provide the following information regarding requests for funding I made of the House Appropriations Committee for inclusion in the Department of Defense (DoD) Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Specifically, the projects will be included in Title IV, Research, Development, Test and Evaluation. The FY 2009 Defense Appropriations Act includes: $5 million for Remotely Operated Weapons Systems, Weapons and Munitions Technology. The entity to receive the funding for this project is the United States Army, specifically the Armament Research Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) located at Picatinny Arsenal, Picatinny, New Jersey, 07806-5000. The funding will be used to accelerate the development and fielding of critical Remotely Operated Weapon Systems technologies on DoD platforms, increasing soldier survivability while enabling them to perform hazardous missions effectively. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $5 million for Advanced Technologies, Energy and Manufacturing Science, Weapons and Munitions Technology. The entity to receive the funding for this project is the United States Army, specifically the Armament Research Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) located at Picatinny Arsenal, Picatinny, New Jersey, 07806-5000. Then funding will be used by the Army to meet the urgent need to develop and provide a breadth of innovative technology solutions to the joint warfighter with a focus on the lethality and survivability demands for munitions and armaments. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $4 million for Developmental Mission Integration, Weapons and Munitions Technology. The entity to receive the funding for this project is the United States Army, specifically the Armament Research Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) located at Picatinny Arsenal, Picatinny, New Jersey, 07806-5000. The funding will be used to meet the critical need for the ARDEC to have the capability and flexibility to ``bridge the gap'' between its armaments research activities and Current Force requirements through a dedicated effort to mature, update, prototype and ``spin out'' armament and munitions technologies needed by the warfighter in the near term (6 to 12 months). The program will develop, demonstrate and transition critical armaments, munitions and logistics technologies needed by Army Brigade Combat Teams and Special Forces prior to (i.e. reset periods) and during deployment. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $3.2 million for Rapid Prototyping for Special Projects, Weapons and Munitions Technology. The entity to receive the funding for this project is the United States Army, specifically the Armament Research Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) located at Picatinny Arsenal, Picatinny, New Jersey, 07806-5000. The funding will be used to capitalize on ARDEC's unique scientific and engineering capabilities to develop lethal and non-lethal solutions for the joint warfighter in periods of less than 6 months. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $2.4 million for Mitigation of Energetic Single Point Failures, Weapons and Munitions Technology. The entity to receive the funding for this project is the United States Army, specifically the Armament Research Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) located at Picatinny Arsenal, Picatinny, New Jersey, 07806-5000. Funding will be used to reduce single point failures which may lead to increased costs and jeopardize production of critical munitions required by the joint Warfighter. This effort will help increase the overall quality of ammunition items for the soldier and reduce the potential for disruption of armament production within the industrial base and the joint armed services. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near- term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $1.6 million for JM&L Joint Munitions and Lethality Mission Integration, Munitions Standardization and Effectiveness. The entity to receive the funding for this project is the United States Army, specifically the Joint Munitions & Lethality Life Cycle Management Command (JM&L LCMC) located at Picatinny Arsenal, Picatinny, New Jersey, 07806-5000. The funding will be used to build a network of strategic partnerships, all coordinated with the organizations associated with the JM&L LCMC. This program will provide an efficient process and will demonstrate how early RDE capabilities and solutions can and should be utilized to ``spiral in'' emerging technologies to expedite new system development or enhance current systems' performance across all services. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $2.4 million for JM&L Warfighter Technology Insertion, Munitions Standardization and Effectiveness. The entity to receive the funding for this project is the United States Army, specifically the Joint Munitions & Lethality Life Cycle Management Command (JM&L LCMC) located at Picatinny Arsenal, Picatinny, New Jersey, 07806-5000. The funds will be used to develop innovative partnerships with non- traditional finance or technology companies to expedite rapid solutions for the soldier. This new network of innovative suppliers will be focused on DoD applications, broadening U.S. suppliers' involvement to support the military. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $2.4 million for Rapid Insertion of Developmental Technology, Weapons and Munitions Advanced Technology. The entity to receive funding for this project is the Stevens Institute of Technology at Castle Point on Hudson, Hoboken, NJ 07030, working in partnership with ARDEC at Picatinny Arsenal. The funding will be used to enhance the Army's ability to accelerate the fielding of new systems and technology that are crucial to the success of ongoing military operations. Such systems increase the protection and survivability of the warfighter as well as enhancing his or her effectiveness in the field. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $2.4 million GreenArmaments/Rangesafe, Weapons and Munitions Technology. The entity to receive funding for this project is the Steven's Institute of Technology at Castle Point on Hudson, Hoboken, NJ 07030, working in partnership with ARDEC at Picatinny Arsenal. The funding will support the Army's Environmental Requirements and Technology Assessment (AERTA) to allow the Army to maintain its training and test and production facilities at the top operational level enabling their continued use to ensure war-fighting readiness. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter-- Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $3.2 million for Armament Systems Engineering--ASEI2, Weapons and Munitions Technology. The entity to receive funding for this project is the Steven's Institute of Technology at Castle Point on Hudson, Hoboken, NJ 07030. This funding will continue a program to provide the Army with the tools and methods to support systems architectures, adaptability and supportability to allow warfighters to change rapidly with changing battlefield conditions. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $3.2 million for Advanced Cluster Energetics, Munitions Standardization and Effectiveness. The entity to receive funding for this project is the New Jersey Institute of Technology at University Heights, Newark, New Jersey 07102-1982, working in partnership with ARDEC at Picatinny Arsenal. The funding supports a successful program that touches all aspects of manufacturing and performance of munitions: 50% manufacturing cost reduction; insensitive munitions through encapsulated uniform compositions munitions products of superior packing density in the same volume leading to greater performance and a reduced logistics tail. ACE manufacturing technologies are applicable to conventional explosives, insensitive RDX, HMX and PBX-type munitions, nitramine-based propellants, and AP-based rocket propellants and bomb fills. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $1.6 million for Enhanced Jam Resistant Technology for INS/GPS Precision, Weapons and Munitions Advanced Technology. The entity to receive funding for this project is L3 Communications, 450 Clark Drive, Budd Lake, New Jersey 07828. The funding will be used to develop technology for missile and rocket systems to counter electronic jamming attempts resulting from the proliferation of relatively low-cost, sophisticated and powerful GPS jammers. This program is important to increase effectiveness of the joint warfighter and reduce potential ``collateral damage'' in any zone of conflict. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $2.4 million for Lightweight Trauma Module, Medical Materiel/Medical Biological Defense. The entity to receive funding for this project is Impact Instrumentation at 27 Fairfield Place, West Caldwell, NJ 07006. This funding will allow the Army to incorporate newer medical device technologies to result in a 60% decrease in mass and cube through the integration of five separate, bulky and uncoordinated patient movement (PM) devices. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $1.6 million for Ink-based Desktop Electronic Material Technology, University and Industry Research Centers. Funding for this project will flow through Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey to Honeywell Corporation, headquartered at 101 Columbia Road, Morristown, New Jersey 07962. The funding will allow the Army to develop specialized inks that are wholly capable of fabricating electronics that would be printed on desktop printers and then incorporated into electronics. Army funding for innovative ink-based technology would lower costs and provide the Army with significant weight improvements resulting in improved mobility and point-of-use printing capability. This innovation would replace expensive traditional electronics that are primarily manufactured in semi-conductor facilities overseas. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near- term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $800,000 for Large Area, APVT Materials for Hi-Powered Devices, Materials. The entity to receive funding for this project is II-VI Corporation, 20 Chapin Road, Suite 1005, Pine Brook, NJ 07058. The funding will allow the Air Force to develop Silicon Carbide technologies with several key advantages over current technologies, including higher power density, better heat dissipation and increased bandwidth, thus making it an enabling technology for critical national defense applications. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Air Force, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $800,000 for Lightweight Multifunctional Material Technology, Weapons and Munitions--SDD. The entity to receive funding for this project is Frontier Polymers, 20 Robert Street, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054, working with ARDEC at Picatinny Arsenal. The funding will allow the Army to improve its ammunition packaging and handling systems and enhance the protection of medium and large caliber ammunition used throughout the military. The concepts in this program (fire/ballistic resistance, reduced weight) can be applied to packaging for a wide range of munitions. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near- term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable $1.6 million M-PACT Pure Air Generator, Small Diameter Bomb. The entity to receive funding for this project is Marotta Scientific Controls, 78 Boonton Avenue, Montville, New Jersey 07045. The funding will be used to allow the Air Force to complete development of an enhanced high pressure pure air generator (HPPAG) system designed to meet the specific operational requirements of the Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) program. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter. As this funding will be provided to the United States Air Force, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable. $800,000 for IM Formulation of Anthrax Therapeutic, Chemical and Biological Defense Program. The entity to receive funding for this project is Elusys Therapeutics, 25 Riverside Drive, Pine Brook, NJ 07058. This funding will allow the Department of Defense to develop a more viable treatment for unvaccinated defense personnel worldwide who have suffered from anthrax exposure. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this program will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Department of Defense, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, even after the remarkably emotional ceremonies on the House steps and at the Pentagon this morning, it is still hard to believe that 7 years have passed since tragedy struck in lower Manhattan and in the fields of Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon. It seems like only yesterday. In that time, we have mourned the loss of so many innocent people, learned many lessons, and have become stronger as a Nation. The events of that day demonstrated the truest form of evil our Nation has encountered, but in the face of that evil, good arose. Firefighters, police and EMS personnel rushed to the scene in lower Manhattan and at the other sites. They saw a danger in front of them, but were determined to help those inside the Towers. Strangers helped each other out of the buildings knowing the risks they faced; neighbors and friends consoled one another; and we saw Americans from all walks of life stand united side by side, waiving the stars and stripes and lighting candles to honor those loved ones missing or lost. Others gave in other ways, giving blood, donating to charity, or volunteering across our country. The best America has to offer was brought out by those terrible events of that fateful day. And we made a promise that morning that we would never forget, and we won't. We are here this afternoon honoring those lost and remembering the sacrifices of those who serve us. We have not forgotten, and we never will. Seven years later, we remember and we gather. We remember those lost on September 11, 2001; 3,000 Americans, 700 from my home State, and people from more than 80 other countries around the world. That morning too many of our friends and neighbors left for work, never to return home again. There is no doubt about it: The character and resolve of America is still strong. Let us take this time to honor and remember those whom we lost that day. God bless you, those we lost, and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Ada Budrick Child Care and Learning Center, a pre-school in Boonton, New Jersey, an exceptional organization I am proud to represent! On August 28, 2008 Ada Budrick celebrated 40 years of educating young children from low- income families. Ada Budrick is a non-profit early childhood education center, accredited by the National Association for Education of Young Children. Ada Budrick provides an opportunity for children of low-income families to enter school on an equal footing with their peers. Its primary goals are to provide a secure, stimulating and loving atmosphere for self-discovery, and to develop feelings of self-worth and accomplishment by stressing cooperation and involvement through interactive learning. Ada Budrick Child Care and Learning Center was founded in 1968 in the Town of Boonton by Ada Budrick, a local welfare leader. The program primarily serves low-income and single parent families of multi- cultural and multi-lingual backgrounds in Morris County, New Jersey. It has grown and changed over the years to meet the needs of this community. Madam Speaker, I urge you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the dedicated and talented trustees and staff of Ada Budrick Child Care and Learning Center on the celebration of 40 years of providing critical educational services to the Boonton community.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join with me in paying tribute to 9th Annual Kaleidoscope of Hope Foundation's Walk-a-thon, which would not be possible without the hard work of Gail MacNeil, a wonderful woman who truly made her mark as a dynamic advocate on behalf of ovarian cancer. On Sunday, September 14, 2008, the good citizens of Morris County will take part in the Kaleidoscope of Hope's 9th Annual Walk-a-thon at Loantaka Brook Reservation. Gail was diagnosed with Stage IIIC ovarian cancer over Christmas 1997. Sadly, her cancer recurred in 2002 and from then on she was on non-stop chemotherapy until she ultimately lost her brave battle on June 21, 2008. She was an amazing life force who continued to work full time as a realtor at Coldwell Banker as well as actively lead many initiatives at Kaleidoscope of Hope. She was an inspiration to all that knew and worked with her, her family and especially to all the cancer survivors and other families whose lives she so passionately touched over the past ten years. `` In 2000, Gail co-founded the Kaleidoscope of Hope Foundation along with two other ovarian cancer survivors, Lois Myers and Patricia Stewart-Busso. The mission of Kaleidoscope of Hope was to raise awareness of ovarian cancer. Gail, Patty and Lois realized that there was a critical and urgent need for more awareness and research to find an early detection test for ovarian cancer, especially in New Jersey, which has the third highest incidence of ovarian cancer in the nation. In her role as a co-founder, Gail helped enhance research programs and supported the state's first four year Gynecology Oncology Fellow, based at the Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Last year, Gail initiated the successful ``Turn The Towns Teal'' campaign which was the first major awareness effort for KOH. At first, this started as a grass-roots teal ribbon tying event in Morris County, New Jersey, however, word quickly spread and people throughout the state joined in and turned their towns teal. Gail also shared her story as part of the Survivors Teaching Students program through the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance. Madam Speaker, I urge you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the citizens of the 11th Congressional District of New Jersey and the Kaleidoscope of Hope's Walk-a-thon participants for their efforts to raise awareness for ovarian cancer, and in so doing, celebrating the life of a fine woman and leader.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, in compliance with new ``earmark'' disclosure procedures adopted by the House Republican Conference, I hereby provide the following information regarding a request for funding I made of the House Appropriations Committee for inclusion in H.R. 6599, the Military Construction--VA Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Specifically, the project will be included in Title 1, Military Construction--Army. H.R. 6599 includes $9.9 million for Phase 1 of the Ballistic Evaluation Facility (66725) in the Fiscal Year 2009 National Defense Authorization Act. The entity to receive the funding for this project is the United States Army, specifically the Armament Research Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) located at Picatinny Arsenal, Picatinny, New Jersey, 07806-5000. The actual design and construction will be executed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The funding will be used for planning, design and construction of a state-of-the-art Ballistic Experimentation Facility (BEF) for Large Caliber Armaments at Picatinny Arsenal. This process will produce a one-of-kind research and testing facility which will reduce Army's operational overhead and maintenance costs and improve safety for Army employees. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this construction will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, rise today to honor the Evangelical Mission and Seminary International in the Towaco portion of the Township of Montville, Morris County, New Jersey, a vibrant community I am proud to represent! On August 8 and 10, 2008, the good citizens of Montville will celebrate the Evangelical Mission and Seminary International's 40th anniversary. Evangelical Mission and Seminary International, EMSI, was established in 1968 by the Reverend Moses Yang. The mission has branches in four continents: Europe, Asia, North America, and Africa, and is made up of several organizations, including Evangelical Bible Institute, Christian Evangelical Mission, and Christian Evangelical Overseas Outreach. Reverend Yang started the personal ministry in 1968. He opened his house and targeted different groups for Bible study, including the College Bible Study group, youth and junior high school students and the Children's Sunday School. When Bible study groups continued to grow, a church was established. The Evangelical Mission and Seminary International was established in Towaco, New Jersey in 1982. In the past 40 years, 1968-2008, the ministry had expanded to include seminaries, churches, mission, literature, and broadcasting. The Evangelical Bible Institute, also located in Towaco, was founded in 1979 and occupies over 19 acres. Campus facilities include the Educational Building, a church, and Chinese/English library, which houses in excess of 14,000 books. The Christian Evangelical Mission was established in West Orange, New Jersey, in 1975. EMSI established the Christian Evangelical Overseas Mission in 1995 with the purpose of developing the overseas mission work. Madam Speaker, I urge you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Evangelical Mission and Seminary International, as well as the Reverend Moses Yang, on the celebration of 40 years serving Morris County and people around the world.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Morristown National Historic Park, county of Morris, New Jersey, as we commemorate its 75th anniversary. During two critical winters of the Revolutionary War, 1777 and 1779- 80, the countryside in and around Morristown, New Jersey, sheltered the main encampments of the American Continental Army and served as the headquarters of its Commander-in-Chief, General George Washington. The winter of 1779-1780 is largely agreed upon by weather historians to be the worst winter of the 18th century, even worse than the winter of 1777-1778 at Valley Forge, But, due to better construction standards, proper sanitation, and better training, the winter of 1779-1780 turned out to be much more successful than prior winter at Valley Forge. General Washington twice chose Morristown due to its strategic location, including proximity to New York City, defensible terrain, important communication routes, access to critical resources, and a supportive community. Morristown's location put it at the crossroads between supply lines connecting Philadelphia, and New England. And the town was close enough to New York to keep a watchful eye over the British encampment on Manhattan Island. This central location allowed Washington to move his army quickly to either New York or Philadelphia if need be. The park encompasses ground occupied by the army during the 1779-80 encampment, and the site of the fortification from the 1777 encampment. The National Park consists of four noncontiguous units: Washington's Headquarters with the Ford mansion and headquarters museum, the Fort Nonsense Unit, the Jockey Hollow Unit, and the New Jersey Brigade Area. The Ford mansion, where Washington made his headquarters, is an important feature of the Park and recalls civilian contributions to the winning of our independence. The Ford mansion has a very interesting history. It was built between 1772 and 1774 and was initially the home of COL Jacob Ford, Jr. Ford was a landowner, iron manufacturer, dedicated patriot, and colonel of the Eastern Battalion of New Jersey's militia. Through his command, Ford had participated in the first battle of Springfield. But, tragedy befell Ford shortly after the battle, when he was stricken with pneumonia. He died on January 10, 1777, After Jacob Ford's death, his widow Theodosia offered the mansion to General Washington to use as his winter quarters. General Washington and his aide-de-camp Alexander Hamilton, would use the mansion to formulate strategy for many of the revolution's greatest campaigns. Washington also used the house to write some of the most important letters of the revolution. The Ford mansion housed some of the most important figures of the revolution including the Marquis de Lafayette, General Schuyler, General Nathaniel Greene, General Henry Knox, and the infamous general, turned traitor, Benedict Arnold. It has been said that the Ford mansion has housed more prominent figures known to the military history of our revolution than any other residence in America. It is because of this rich history, that Morristown has been cited as the military capital of the revolution. On March 2, 1933, President Herbert Hoover signed Morristown National Historic Park into existence. It is the first National Historic Park in the United States. The park's mission is to interpret the extraordinary fortitude of the officers and enlisted men under Washington's leadership and the important subsequent commemoration of these crucial events of the American Revolution. The National Park Service and the Washington Association of New Jersey, a not-for-profit organization formed over 130 years ago to preserve Morristown's Revolutionary War landmarks, especially the Ford mansion, work to protect the landscape and historic resources of the Continental Army's winter encampments and other nearby Revolutionary War military and civilian sites for the benefit and inspiration of all. The Washington Association is the original keeper of the Ford mansion, also known as Washington's Headquarters, and continues to raise private funds for its renovations, and that of the museum, and its educational programs and remarkable archives. The Washington Association of New Jersey was founded in Morristown in June 1873. On March 20, 1874, the New Jersey State Legislature chartered the Washington Association as a stock-granting corporation in New Jersey. The association would be responsible for preserving the mansion until 1933 when it was donated to the Federal Government, and designated the first National Historic Park. The park's mission is to interpret the extraordinary fortitude of the officers and enlisted men under Washington's leadership and the important subsequent commemoration of these crucial events of the American Revolution. Madam Speaker, for the past 75 years, the Morristown National Historic Park has been an educational and heartfelt piece of history in this district. I ask you, Madam Speaker, and my colleagues to honor the Morristown National Historic Park, its dedicated employees and its many volunteer supporters as our Nation's first historic park celebrates a very special 75th anniversary.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, America expects that when the United States sends our brave men and women into combat, we provide them with the resources to protect themselves and to accomplish their mission. Finally today--after much delay--this Congress appears to be on the verge of providing our troops the funds they need to continue their courageous efforts in the Iraq and Afghanistan--both humanitarian for the Iraqi and Afghan people and military against those who would promote terror and chaos. There's no doubt that this proposal is a clear victory for our troops and their families. Thanks to the efforts of Mr. Obey and Mr. Murtha, Mr. Lewis and Mr. Young, this package ensures that our young; warfighters--all volunteers (Active, Guard and Reserve)--have the resources they need to protect themselves and do the job they've been sent to do. But the bill also supports the troops and their families by bringing the Montgomery GI Bill into the 21st Century. The legislation updates the GI Bill of Rights to recognize today's higher costs of higher education. And it also recognizes the new role of the Reserves and the National Guard-- 3,200 from New Jersey will deploy this summer to Iraq with our 50th Brigade Combat Team. But Mr. Speaker, this measure also includes a new, permanent provision that allows current soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines to transfer their educational benefits to a spouse or a child. Mr. Speaker, this is a huge improvement. Too often our personnel and forced to leave the military service they love in order to pay for their children's college education. This bill allows experienced Marines, soldiers, airmen and sailors to transfer their benefits to a dependant without separating from the service. This reform is good for the servicemember, good for the families and good for the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. My colleagues, the supplemental we vote on today is far from perfect. However, it represents a clear victory for our troops and their families.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Mount Kemble Home, of Morristown, Morris County, New Jersey. On June 22, 2008, the residents and staff at the Mount Kemble Home will be celebrating its 125th anniversary. The Mount Kemble Home was founded in 1883 by a group of parishioners from the Morristown Presbyterian Church as a refuge for women in need of a home. The Mount Kemble Home has been assisting women in the lower income bracket for over 125 years. The Mount Kemble Home provides each resident with a quality one-room apartment, complete with cooking facilities. There are two living rooms with comfortable chairs for reading, watching television, or playing the piano. The front and back porches further enhance the Home with wonderful views of the surrounding neighborhood. The Mount Kemble Home relies on donations from the community and volunteer work to keep the Home open, as the rent charged is only 25 percent of the residents' income. For 125 years the Mount Kemble Home has been providing women in Morris County the opportunity to afford quality housing in a comfortable and safe environment. Its staff, volunteers, and charitable donors are to be commended for their hard work. Madam Speaker, I urge you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Mount Kemble Home on the celebration of 125 years of serving Morris County's women, in one of New Jersey's finest municipalities.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, on the legislative day of June 17, 2008, I was unavoidably detained in returning to Washington, DC. As a result, I did not cast votes on rollcalls 414, 415, 416. Had I been here, I would have voted: ``Yea'' on rollcall 414, a motion to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 2964, the Captive Primate Safety Act; ``Yea'' on rollcall 415, a motion to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 3702, the Montana Cemetery Act; ``Yea'' on rollcall 416, a motion to suspend the rules and pass H. Res. 1275, honoring the life of Timothy John Russert, Jr., public servant, political analyst, and author.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, once again, I come to the floor to recognize the great success of strong local schools working with dedicated parents and teachers. I rise today to congratulate and honor a number of outstanding high school artists from the 11th Congressional District of New Jersey. Each of these talented students is participating in the 2008 Congressional Arts competition, ``An Artistic Discovery.'' Their works of art are exceptional. We have 46 students participating. That is a wonderful response, and I would very much like to build on that participation for future competitions. Madam Speaker, I would like to congratulate the three winners of our art competition. First Place was awarded to Jessica Pester of Millburn High School for her work ``Waiting.'' Second Place was awarded to Rebecca Bailey from West Morris Mendham High School for her work ``Mark.'' Third Place was awarded to Kristen Capote from Parsippany Christian School for her work ``Digital Camera.'' I would like to recognize each artist for their participation by indicating their high school, their name, and the title of their contest entry for the official record. Boonton High School: Cathy Yang's ``Self Portrait'' (Honorable Mention); Elyssa Hunziker's ``When I was Seventeen''; Jennifer Vasta's ``The Gift''; Steve McKeown's ``Self Portrait.'' Chatham High School: Anna Zamecka's ``Charcoal Still Life''; Grace Oakley's. ``Global Fabric''; Michelle Mruk's ``Miniature Eggplants and Egg.'' Livingston High School: Jordana Geller's ``Timelessness''; Kelly Keltos ``Carnival''; Victor Xia's ``Steel''; Wei Li Cheng's ``Vanilla.'' Madison High School: Alexandra Coultas ``The Luke Miller House''; Frank Wulff, III's ``Valor''; Frederick Greis ``Elaine''; Kimberly Smith's ``He loves me, He loves me not.'' Millburn High School: Kelly Blumenthal's ``Venetian Landscape''; Jessica Pester's ``Waiting'' (First Place); Jacqueline San Fillipo's ``Riding Shadows.'' Montville High School: Christine Riccio's ``Summer''; Grace Lee's ``Spring Flowers''; Jennifer Eishingrelo's ``Montville Farmer''; Michael Johnston's ``Book Smart.'' Morris Knolls High School: Elizabeth Westerman's ``Toy Trains''; Liana Kelly's ``A Brighter Life''; Jennifer Engleson's ``Sunburnt Lawn''; Amanda Wilson's ``Inside My Head.'' Mount Olive High School: Kristen Cignavitch's ``Puzzle Portrait''; Laura Smith's ``The Approach''; Olga Kazakova's ``Belarus in America''; Rachel Tenenbaum's ``Photography.'' Parsippany Christian School: Austin Dimare's ``Austin Splender''; Kristen Capote's ``Digital Camera'' (Third Place); Samantha Dahl's ``Go Fish.'' Ridge High School: Christina Stillwaggon's ``P.M.S.''; Frankie Cocuzza's ``Untitled #3''; Lara Charavantes' ``Purificacao'' (Honorable Mention); Sojin Ouh's ``Leftovers.'' Roxbury High School: Christian Peslak's ``Conscious Man''; Sam Knopka's ``Self Portrait''; Bret Koblyka's ``Self Portrait'' (Honorable Mention); Jacob Mandel's ``The Artist's Mindset.'' Watchung Hills High School: Kim Delli Paoli's ``My Vacation.'' West Morris Mendham High School: Caitlin Aromando's ``Intensity''; Elisa Cecere's ``Elephant Eye''; Olivia Sebesky's ``Jon''; Rebecca Bailey's ``Mark'' (Second Place). Each year the winner of the competition has their art work displayed with other winners from across the country in a special corridor here at the U.S. Capitol. Thousands of fellow Americans walk through that corridor and are reminded of the vast talents of our young men and women. Indeed, all of these young artists are winners, and we should be proud of their achievements so early in life. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating these talented young people from New Jersey's 11th Congressional District.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Alward and Henry Meeker Post 2833 and the Ladies Auxiliary, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Kenvil, Township of Roxbury, County of Morris, New Jersey, as we commemorate the Post's 75th Anniversary. VFW Post 2833 was formed during the winter months of 1932 and 1933 in a road stand which is now the office of the Kingtown Mountain Motel. Twenty-one other charter members were recruited by Frank Van Houten, a Spanish American War veteran, after his move from Paterson, New Jersey to Netcong. Mr. Van Houten was previously a member of the Alexander Hamilton VFW Post 139, Paterson. Netcong had already formed a post a year earlier, but Mr. Van Houten and his recruits from the Netcong/ Succasunna area sought to establish their own Post. The Post was named in remembrance of two brothers, Private Alward Wilson Meeker and Private Henry Fordham Meeker Jr., who both died during World War I. The brothers were sons of Henry F. and Charlotte H. Meeker, who operated a general store on Main Street in Kenvil. On Flag Day, June 14, 1933, the A & H Meeker VFW Post officially was chartered with Frank Van Houten as its first Commander. The Ladies Auxiliary was chartered on October 13, 1933. Ruth Hart was its first President. On January 12, 1935, Post charter member John Kasweck and Auxiliary charter member Margaret Kasweck deeded land for the new Post home. The members signed for a bank loan to cover the cost of building materials and held fundraisers and dances to pay off the debt. The loan was repaid by the early 1940s, so by the end of World War II, returning veterans had an established post to join. In the late 1960's a merger took place between Alward & Henry Meeker 2833 and Roxbury Memorial Post 10135, including the Ladies Auxiliaries. The Post retained its name. During 1988 additions were completed for the Post building, and land was purchased for a parking lot. The flag pole was moved to its present position at the Post building. Sidewalks and wheelchair access were also added, but funds fell short, and loans were once again given by members. In the 1990's the Post and Auxiliary joined forces, sponsoring spaghetti dinners to meet the obligation of these loans. Today, the Post celebrates its 75th anniversary. The members take pride in all the service they have provided to our veterans and the community of Roxbury Township over many years. Madam Speaker, I am privileged to honor the Alward and Henry Meeker Post 2833 and the Ladies Auxiliary, Veterans of Foreign Wars. I urge you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the members of this valuable, dedicated organization for their seventy-five years of service!

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, in compliance with new ``earmark'' disclosure procedures adopted by the House Republican Conference, I hereby provide the following information regarding a request for funding I made of the House Armed Services Committee for inclusion in H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Specifically, the project will be included in Title 1, Military Construction--Army. H.R. 5658 includes $10,791 million for Phase 1 of the Ballistic Evaluation Facility (66725) in the Fiscal Year 2009 National Defense Authorization Act. The entity to receive the funding for this project is the United States Army, specifically the Armament Research Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) located at Picatinny Arsenal, Picatinny, New Jersey, 07806-5000. The actual design and construction will be executed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The funding will be used for planning, design and construction of a state-of-the-art Ballistic Experimentation Facility (BEF) for Large Caliber Armaments at Picatinny Arsenal. This process will produce a one-of-kind research and testing facility which will reduce Army's operational overhead and maintenance costs and improve safety for Army employees. The use of U.S. taxpayer funding is justified because this construction will provide near-term and long-range benefits to the joint warfighter--Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. As this funding will be provided to the United States Army, the requirement of matching funds is not applicable.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, once again, I come to the floor to recognize the great success of strong local schools working with dedicated parents and teachers. I rise today to congratulate and honor a number of outstanding high school artists from the 11th Congressional District of New Jersey. Each of these talented students is participating in the 2008 Congressional Arts competition, ``An Artistic Discovery.'' Their works of art are exceptional! We have 46 students participating. That is a wonderful response, and I would very much like to build on that participation for future competitions. Madam Speaker, I would like to congratulate the three winners of our art competition. First Place was awarded to Jessica Pester of Millburn High School for her work ``Waiting.'' Second Place was awarded to Rebecca Bailey from West Morris Mendham High School for her work ``Mark.'' Third Place was awarded to Kristen Capote from Parsippany Christian School for her work ``Digital Camera.'' I would like to recognize each artist for their participation by indicating their high school, their name, and the title of their contest entry for the official record. Boonton High School: Cathy Yang's ``Self Portrait'' (Honorable Mention); Elyssa Hunziker's ``When I Was Seventeen;'' Jennifer Vasta's ``The Gift;'' Steve McKeown's ``Self Portrait''. Chatham High School: Anna Zamecka's ``Charcoal Still Life;'' Grace Oakley's ``Global Fabric;'' Michelle Mruk's ``Miniature Eggplants and Egg''. Livingston High School: Jordana Geller's ``Timelessness;'' Kelly Keltos' ``Carnival;'' Victor Xia's ``Steel;'' Wei Li Cheng's ``Vanilla''. Madison High School: Alexandra Coultas' ``The Luke Miller House;'' Frank Wulff, III's ``Valor;'' Frederick Greis' ``Elaine;'' Kimberly Smith's ``He loves me, He loves me not''. Millburn High School: Kelly Blumenthal's ``Venetian Landscape;'' Jessica Pester's ``Waiting'' (First Place); Jacqueline San Fillipo's ``Riding Shadows''. Montville High School: Christine Riccio's ``Summer;'' Grace Lee's ``Spring Flowers;'' Jennifer Eishingrelo's ``Montville Farmer;'' Michael Johnston's ``Book Smart''. Morris Knolls High School: Elizabeth Westerman's Toy Trains;'' Liana Kelly's ``A Brighter Life;'' Jennifer Engleson's ``Sunburnt Lawn''. Mount Olive High School: Kristen Cignavitch's ``Puzzle Portrait;'' Laura Smith's ``The Approach;'' Olga Kazakova's ``Belarus in America;'' Rachel Tenenbaum's ``Photography''. Parsippany Christian School: Austin Dimare's ``Austin Splender;'' Kristen Capote's ``Digital Camera'' (Third Place); Samantha Dahl's ``Go Fish''. Ridge High School: Christina Stillwaggon's ``P.M.S.;'' Frankie Cocuzza's ``Untitled #3;'' Lara Charavantes' ``Purificacao'' (Honorable Mention); Sojin Ouh's ``Leftovers''. Roxbury High School: Christian Peslak's ``Conscious Man;'' Sam Knopka's ``Self Portrait;'' Bret Koblyka's ``Self Portrait'' (Honorable Mention); Jacob Mandel's ``The Artist's Mindset''. Watchung Hills High School: Kim Delli Paoli's ``My Vacation''. West Morris Mendham High School: Caitlin Aromando's ``Intensity;'' Elisa Cecere's ``Elephant Eye;'' Olivia Sebesky's ``Jon;'' Rebecca Bailey's ``Mark'' (Second Place). Each year the winner of the competition has their art work displayed with other winners from across the country in a special corridor here at the U.S. Capitol. Thousands of fellow Americans walk through that corridor and are reminded of the vast talents of our young men and women. Indeed, all of these young artists are winners, and we should be proud of their achievements so early in life. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating these talented young people from New Jersey's 11th Congressional District.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to this legislation, and I thank the gentleman for yielding. I oppose this legislation on two distinct grounds. On process, the American people should expect more from this Congress. They should expect that when the United States sends our brave men and women into combat, we provide them with the resources to protect themselves and to accomplish their mission, both military and humanitarian, and we do it expeditiously. In this context, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, the Nation's top military officer, has warned all of us and our congressional leaders, and I quote: ``The Pentagon is dangerously close to running out of money. We need the supplemental appropriations very badly before the Memorial Day recess. We stop paying soldiers on the 15th of June, and we have precious little flexibility with respect to that.'' Should it be a surprise to the majority leadership? Absolutely not. Our troops have been waiting nearly 450 days since the President delivered his request for emergency funds to Congress. Our soldiers need this funding to continue their efforts in the global war on terror. Yet this is a process that amounts to deliberate brinksmanship. You have waited until the 11th hour before bringing the bill to the floor in an effort to force the President and the Congress to endorse and accept billions of dollars of nonwar, nonemergency spending. Having said that, Mr. Speaker, on substance, on the funding for Iraq and Afghanistan, this is a solid package and I commend the gentleman, Chairman Murtha, and the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Young) for their work. However, my colleagues, once again we are being asked to endorse a policy that amounts to retreat from our battles with terrorists in Iraq. But this bill in the end should not be about binding or nonbinding deadlines for withdraw or how to conduct this war. The critical mass of this bill is about supporting our troops and making sure that all of these volunteers get what they need.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. 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. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. 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. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. 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. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. 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. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, today I am introducing legislation that provides an important extension of the Commodity Exchange Act of 1934. This legislation focuses on energy transactions that perform a ``significant price discovery function.'' The legislation also addresses fraud and retail transactions in foreign exchange markets. It gives the Commodities Futures Trading Commission broader authority to prosecute fraud in other commodities such as heating oil. Americans have lost confidence in our energy markets--particularly in the futures market. I have spoken with many constituents who are skeptical about the price of gasoline and heating oil prices. Many consumers strongly suspect these prices are being manipulated. Over the past year, we have seen historical increases in the prices of gasoline and heating oil. Our colleagues in the Senate have done significant analysis on this issue, and their findings have been supported by reports published by the GAO and in the fall of last year. At the end of last year, Triple-A, AAA predicted that these spring months would see a decrease in oil and gas prices between the busy winter and summer travel seasons. Yet, prices remain around all-time highs, despite relatively constant inventory levels. Residents of New Jersey and throughout the country have struggled with heating bills, businesses are having difficulty with their electricity and transportation costs and this situation does not appear to be improving. To fix this situation requires complex answers, but it is becoming patently clear that speculation in the unregulated exempt commodities market is working to increase energy prices. Providing transparency to these dark markets is long overdue. Today, I ask that all of my colleagues will support this legislation, which is very closely aligned with a Senate Amendment to the Farm bill, which had bipartisan support and was passed by a voice vote. Quoting the Energy Market Oversight Coalition, ``To restore public confidence, all energy markets must be fair, orderly, and transparent so the prices paid by consumers reflect the true supply and demand.'' In order for our futures markets to work, and our financial system as a whole, there is a pressing need for transparency. The CFTC exists for a specific reason and the work they do is vital to the operations of our economy. However, it cannot accomplish its mission if there are markets that it cannot monitor. This legislation addresses this troubling gap in the law and will ensure the solvency of our financial system and energy markets.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the people of the Borough of Roseland, County of Essex, New Jersey, as they commemorate the 100th anniversary of the incorporation of their community. In 1908, the residents of the Roseland Community, displeased with the services they were receiving, took action to separate themselves and their town from the Township of Livingston. During this time, many communities throughout the State of New Jersey decided to separate from larger townships and the time was right for the residents of Roseland to make a change. The completion of the Morristown and Erie Railroads in 1904-1905 had made it possible for residents of Roseland to work in neighboring cities, while enjoying life in the country. During this time, the Borough purchased water supply lines and installed electric home and street lighting which further enhanced life in Roseland. And by the 1920s, Henry Ford's methods of mass production of the automobile changed the development of Roseland forever. After World War I, new houses went up, many residents now owned cars and Roseland flourished. At this time, the Borough outgrew its country- style living and joined the more urban society we know today. The Great Depression and World War II brought with them some hard times for the people of Roseland, but the residents proved that as a community they could survive. When called to serve their country, all residents accepted their responsibilities, in both military and civilian service, and did their part. After victory, the pride felt all over the Nation was especially strong in Roseland. In the following decades, Roseland's development continued. During this time, great improvements in community services and facilities were made. Roseland is now thriving with a prosperous business and corporate center, excellent schools, recreational facilities and a strong sense of community. Madam Speaker, for the past 100 years, the Borough of Roseland has prospered as a community and continues to flourish today. By all accounts, it will continue to thrive in the future, and I ask you, Madam Speaker, and my colleagues to congratulate all residents of Roseland on this special 100th anniversary year.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, every year, more high school seniors from the 11th Congressional District trade in varsity jackets for Navy pea coats, Air Force flight suits, and Army brass buckles than most other districts in the country. But this is nothing new--our area has repeatedly sent an above average portion of its sons and daughters to the Nation's military academies for decades. This fact should not come as a surprise. The educational excellence of area schools is well known and has long been a magnet for families looking for the best environment in which to raise their children. Our graduates are skilled not only in mathematics, science, and social studies, but also have solid backgrounds in sports, debate teams, and other extracurricular activities. This diverse upbringing makes military academy recruiters sit up and take note--indeed, many recruiters know our towns and schools by name. Since the 1830s, Members of Congress have enjoyed meeting, talking with, and nominating these superb young people to our military academies. But how did this process evolve? In 1843, when West Point was the sole academy, Congress ratified the nominating process and became directly involved in the makeup of our military's leadership. This was not an act of an imperial Congress bent on controlling every aspect of Government. Rather, the procedure still used today was, and is, a further check and balance in our democracy. It was originally designed to weaken and divide political coloration in the officer corps, provide geographical balance to our armed services, and to make the officer corps more resilient to unfettered nepotism and handicapped European armies. In 1854, Representative Gerritt Smith of New York added a new component to the academy nomination process--the academy review board. This was the first time a Member of Congress appointed prominent citizens from his district to screen applicants and assist with the serious duty of nominating candidates for academy admission. Today, I am honored to continue this wise tradition in my service to the 11th Congressional District. The Academy Review Board is composed of six local citizens (several of whom are distinguished veterans) who have shown exemplary service to New Jersey, to their communities, and to the continued excellence of education in our area. Though from diverse backgrounds and professions, they all share a common dedication that the best qualified and motivated graduates attend our academies. And, as true for most volunteer groups, their service goes largely unnoticed. I would like to take a moment to recognize these men and women and thank them publicly for participating in this important panel. Being on the Board requires hard work and an objective mind. Members have the responsibility of interviewing upwards of 50 outstanding high school seniors every year in the academy review process. The nomination process follows a general timetable. High school seniors mail personal information directly to the Military Academy, the Naval Academy, the Air Force Academy, and the Merchant Marine Academy once they become interested in attending. Information includes academic achievement, college entry test scores, and other activities. At this time, they also inform my office of their desire to be nominated. The academies then assess the applicants, rank them based on the data supplied, and return the files to my office with their notations. In late November, our Academy Review Board interviews all of the applicants over the course of two days. They assess a student's qualifications and analyze character, desire to serve, and other talents that may be hidden on paper. This year the board interviewed 38 applicants. Nominations included 10 to the Naval Academy, 8 to the Military Academy, 5 to the Merchant Marine Academy, and 5 to the Air Force Academy--the Coast Guard Academy does not use the congressional nomination process. The recommendations are then forwarded to the academies by January 31, where admissions staff reviewed files and notified applicants and my office of their final decision on admittance. As these highly motivated and talented young men and women go through the academy nominating process, never let us forget the sacrifice they are preparing to make: to defend our country and protect our citizens. This holds especially true at a time when our Nation is fighting the war against terrorism. Whether it is in Afghanistan, the Iraq, or other hot spots around the world, no doubt we are constantly reminded that wars are fought by the young. And, while our military missions are both important and sometimes dangerous, it is reassuring to know that we continue to put America's best and brightest in command. Academy Nominees for 2008, 11th Congressional District New Jersey Air Force Academy Chelsea A. Bailey, Chatham, Academy of Arts Science & Engineering. Phillip XG Choy, Basking Ridge, Ridge H.S. Kenneth A. Natelli, Andover, Lenape Valley H.S. Ethan J. Proll, West Caldwell, Trinity Christian School. William D. Thimmel, Pompton Plains, Don Bosco. Merchant Marine Academy Michael C. Jones, Basking Ridge, Ridge H.S. Leslie M. Martin, Parsippany, DePaul H.S. Jack A. Morado, West Caldwell, St. Benedicts Prep. Evan Prill, Boonton, Boonton H.S. Matthew J. White, Bloomingdale, Butler H.S. Military Academy Brian P. Greely, Lake Hopatcong, Pope John XXIII. Travis Hughes, Randolph, Randolph H.S. Vincent J. Lally, Sparta, Sparta H.S. James J. Mariani, Fairfield, West Essex H.S. Mark E. McConnell, Lake Hopatcong, Jefferson H.S. Alexander G. Pagoulatos, Basking Ridge, Ridge H.S. Jason S. Rothamel, Basking Ridge, Ridge H.S. Brendan J. Ward, Chatham, Chatham H.S. Naval Academy William B. Brundage, New Vernon, The Pingry School. Aaron Z. Dewitt, Mendham, W. Morris Mendham H.S. Katherine S. Drainsfield, Bridgewater, Bridgewater-Raritan

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. I rise in strong opposition to this legislation, the process that brought it here tonight, but not to the money that is badly needed for our troops in the field. For each of the last 3 years, the Defense appropriations bill, ably led by Chairman Young and Chairman Murtha, has included a straightforward bridge fund to cover the cost of ongoing operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Indeed, the continuing resolution we passed last month gave our military access to the bridge funding until November 16. This funding allowed our warfighters, all volunteers, the ability to fuel their Stryker vehicles and Humvees, restock their ammunition, resupply their mess halls, power the systems that allow them to keep in touch with their families at home, and even to ship their new MRAP vehicles to the battle zone so they may be better protected from IEDs. And yes, protect their fellow soldiers and innocent Iraqis. But bowing to antiwar sentiment, the majority leadership pointedly chose to keep this important bridge funding out of the defense bill that we approved last week. So while our brave warfighters are hard at work in Iraq in a hellish environment, they find they have to watch their own backs from those in Washington who want to choke off funding for their missions, both military and humanitarian. I submit that this deliberate attempt to starve our operations in Iraq threatens the very safety of those troops and the lives of hundreds of thousands of innocent Iraqis. No, Mr. Speaker, we should be sending to the President a clean bridge fund that does not tie the hands of commanders in the field and allows them to build on their undeniable successes in recent months in Iraq. Cutting money does tie their hands, limits those commanders' options, as does the setting of date certain. My colleagues, the ill-advised process this House started last week is not without its costs. While Congress deliberately procrastinates, and some say throws roadblocks in front of our brave warriors battling violent international terrorists every day, military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan will run out of money, causing the Department of Defense to borrow from other important programs to support their operations. I am told this process could completely drain the Army's operations and maintenance accounts by the end of next January. In fact, it is my understanding that the Deputy Secretary of Defense has warned that the military would have to start preparing in December, next month, to close domestic military facilities, lay off civilian workers, and delay contracts if the bridge funding is not provided. This could have very damaging consequences for those communities privileged to host a military installation. Mr. Speaker, I am also troubled that this bill requires the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq and slaps restrictions on the mission of U.S. troops, again, both military and humanitarian. This harkens back to what was recently described by the junior Senator from Connecticut as the ``narrative of defeat and retreat.'' As Senator Lieberman said yesterday, and I quote, ``Rather than supporting General Petraeus and our troops in the field, antiwar advocates in Congress are instead struggling to deny or disparage their achievements, and are now acting, once again, to hold hostage the funding our troops desperately need and to order retreat by a date certain, regardless of what is happening on the ground.'' I would remind my colleagues that even the Iraq Study Group warned us against setting arbitrary deadlines. We should let the troops and their commanders do their work. I have always maintained that our brave troops' service in Iraq should be as short and as safe as possible. This legislation does nothing to advance either of these goals. I urge rejection of this bill. General Leave