Brian Fitzpatrick

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I ask to have my name removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 1297, the Air America Act.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge an outstanding constituent from my district, Lillian J. Gardner, who has served the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) for nearly four decades. After achieving both a bachelor's degree in Business Logistics and a master's degree in Business Administration from the Pennsylvania State University, Lillian joined the Defense Personnel Support Center (now the DLA) in 1983 as an Inventory Management Specialist. Since then, she has held a number of different positions within the agency, working tirelessly to support our Nation's warfighters and becoming an expert in the acquisition field. Now, after 38 years of dedicated public service and professional leadership in the Department of Defense, Lillian is entering retirement. She concludes her impressive career as the Director and Chief of the Contracting Services Office. Widely respected for her accurate, strategic, and creative acquisition support to DLA's leaders, Lillian has also demonstrated an extraordinary ability to overcome complex and innumerable challenges, including those that have arisen because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her dedication and diligence have contributed to keeping our military mission-ready. We are incredibly grateful for the positive impact Lillian has had on our community and country throughout her time in government service, and we wish Lillian countless blessings during her retirement.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an amazing young man and Scout in my community in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Alex Goglia. After completing his Arrow of Light Award in Pack 1 of the Scouts, Alex crossed over into Scouts BSA Troop 1 in Sellersville. Since then, Alex has moved up through the ranks of Scouting and recently became a Life Scout. As a member of Troop 1, Alex has held several leadership positions, including assistant patrol leader, patrol leader, and now senior patrol leader. His leadership through the ranks sets an excellent example for the younger Scouts to follow. Madam Speaker, I am proud to recognize Alex Goglia before this Congress as an individual who lives the words of the Scout Oath and Law in his everyday life and is steadfast in his commitment to better our community back home in Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, recently, in the midst of an emergency medical situation, Alex used his lifesaving skills he learned in Scouting to save the life of a young child who was choking on a piece of food in a restaurant where Alex was employed. Alex's calm, quick, and heroic response was recognized by the National Boy Scouts of America, which awarded him the BSA Medal of Merit, a rare award offered by the Scouts. We are incredibly grateful for Alex Goglia's meritorious acts and for the positive impact that he has had within Scout Troop 1 and our entire community. Madam Speaker, we wish Alex much success as he pursues the rank of Eagle Scout, and for all his other future endeavors. Well done, Alex.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the inauguration of Dr. Anne Prisco as the sixth president of Holy Family University. After achieving a bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona, a master's degree from Fordham University, and a Ph.D. from Columbia University, Dr. Prisco has gone on to faithfully serve a number of higher education institutions in a variety of roles. Over the course of her impressive career, she has worked as an administrator, faculty member, researcher, and consultant. Prior to her new post at Holy Family. Dr. Prisco was President of Felician University in New Jersey from 2012 to 2020, leading the school through a transformational period. Under her leadership there, the university grew and is now thriving with record-breaking increases in enrollment, growing net revenue, continued facilities enhancements, and a focus on inclusive excellence and shared governance. Dr. Prisco was appointed as the next President of Holy Family University in July 2021 and will be officially installed in that on April 8, 2022. We have no doubt that she will bring the same commitment that she brought to her previous academic posts to Holy Family University. As Dr. Prisco fully begins this new journey, we are incredibly grateful for the positive impact that she has already had community and wish her well in her new role.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable non-profit organization in my district, the College Settlement Summer Camp. Founded in Horsham, Pennsylvania, College Settlement works to shape the lives of underserved young people and instill in them a respect for self, others, and the natural world. Their mission to deliver a unique, growth-focused camp experience has improved the lives of countless boys and girls. In neighborhoods and communities that are often divided, College Settlement offers an invaluable sense of belonging. The camp's commitment to public service, inclusion, and affordable programming is admirable, and this year, as they celebrate 100 years of connecting our children to the outdoors, we express our appreciation for the impact that College Settlement Summer Camp has had on Bucks and Montgomery counties and the greater Philadelphia area.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Kaptur for all she does for Ukraine. Mr. Speaker, I stand here not only as the co-chair of Ukraine Caucus, but also the ranking member of the House Subcommittee on Europe, Energy, the Environment, and Cyber; and a commission on the Helsinki Commission, having previously served and lived in Ukraine, in Kiev, standing side by side with the Ukranian people, and growing to love them for their heart, their passion, their desire for independence, their desire for closer ties to the West, and their craving for freedom, something that they are striving for more and more every single day. With all of those things in context, Mr. Speaker, this moment before us, unfortunately, has not come as a surprise. Over the last 8 years, the amazing people of Ukraine have endured Russia's illegal and violent occupation. To date, some 14,000 innocent Ukrainians have perished, many of whom were civilians with more than a million displaced. The autocratic regime of Vladimir Putin has engaged in countless humanitarian violations and challenged international norms of sovereignty over the last 30 years, and it is imperative that the United States and our NATO allies meet this moment with deterrence and diplomacy and strength in unity. America must, as we have in the past, stand up against Russian authoritarianism. The people of Ukraine share our Western values and deserve freedom from Russian oppression. The people of Ukraine share a steadfast commitment to regional cooperation resisting polarization and shining a light on corruption. The United States has moved to supply Ukraine with lethal aid to maintain its borders in the wake of increased Russian aggression. The United States has committed just recently an additional $200 million in security assistance, and we must encourage our NATO allies to act in a similar fashion. We applaud those NATO allies who have stepped up to the plate and encourage those who have not that they must do so now to maintain the NATO alliance. We have already stepped up to defend democracy in so many other areas of the world and this must be no exception. It is my hope, Mr. Speaker, that more of our ally countries will take this charge seriously and realize what is at stake. It is also my hope that our allies can look to decouple with the Russian economy, recognizing the larger threat Putin's destabilizing regime poses throughout Europe and throughout the world. Taking decisive action in implementing economic sanctions to the harshest degree is necessary, and we must weigh all of our options given the severity of this moment, along with a wide, bipartisan coalition in both Chambers of Congress. My colleagues in Congress have called for sweeping sanctions on the kleptocrats that keep Putin's regime operable. As it has before with other rogue powers, the international community must send a clear and unequivocal message. If Russia insists on threatening the sovereignty of another state and jeopardizing global security, there will be the harshest of consequences. I would like to thank my co-chairs for being here today as well as Representative Victoria Spartz, the first-ever Ukrainian born Member of Congress, an immense source of pride for the people of Ukraine. We are here to send a bipartisan, bicameral message to Vladimir Putin and his corrupt regime that these consequences will far outweigh any benefit he may perceive of further aggression in Ukraine. If the Euromaidan Revolution should have sent any message to Russia, it is that you never underestimate the heart and the passion of the soul of Ukrainian people to defend their own independence. The overwhelming majority of Ukrainians were born after 1991, after their independence. They do not want any part of Russia regardless of what Vladimir Putin thinks. And we will stand behind them unequivocally and unapologetically to call for the harshest of consequence should Vladimir Putin take one step across the Ukrainian border. I personally will make it my mission here in this body to see that they receive the harshest consequences, the least of which will be ending Nord Stream 2 and removing Russia from the Swiss banking system, cutting off their economy, targeting sanctions to Vladimir Putin himself and his surrounding oligarchs. I say to Mr. Putin that that will be just the beginning of what he will face.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge an outstanding constituent from my district, Paul William Beatty, who has served as a volunteer firefighter at the Goodwill Hose Co. No. 3 Station in Bristol, Pennsylvania for nearly four decades. Following in the footsteps of his father and brothers, Paul became a volunteer firefighter and fought over 500 fires, helping save countless lives and giving comfort to those who had lost everything. I am proud to honor Paul as an exceptional member of our community and celebrate his retirement. Whether at noon or midnight, the dead of winter or the heat of summer, Paul has always answered the call for help when it was needed. He has demonstrated extraordinary bravery and leadership over the past 39 years and his hard work has contributed to the safety of our community. I am incredibly grateful for the positive impact Paul has had on others throughout his long career of service, and I wish him countless blessings during his retirement.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Postal Service Reform Act. As my colleagues have pointed out here, this is a long-overdue reform measure that will ensure 6-day delivery, eliminate the prefund mandate which, by the way, applies only to the U.S. Postal Service. Not a single other government agency across this Nation has been subject to this wildly outrageous provision that has significantly undermined the financial stability of the post office. Madam Speaker, the very first Postmaster General was someone from my hometown of Philadelphia, a man by the name of Ben Franklin. His annual salary was $1,000 a year. And you look at the history of the U.S. Postal Service, all the way up to and including the time of the COVID- 19 pandemic where they were up there on the front lines serving our communities, serving our constituents, making sure that our country continued to run. We owe them this support to reform these measures and ensure the stability and strength of our hero letter carriers and postal workers across our Nation.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to pay tribute to the life and legacy of a very respected member of our beloved Bucks County community, Eileen Reed. Born in Macon, Georgia, as an Army child, Eileen often relocated before eventually settling in our beloved Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Eileen enjoyed a long, successful career with New Jersey Bell Telephone, AT&T, and Lucent Technologies, before retiring in July 2000 to devote more time to her two granddaughters. Eileen was a lifelong learner with a keen interest in understanding the detail of exactly how things worked, especially in technology. Our community will remember Eileen for her strong passion and commitment to a number of local and national political, social, and charitable organizations. Mr. Speaker, the story of how I met Eileen is she was actually a protestor outside of my office who I got to know. I invited her up to my office and quickly saw her passion, her intellect, and her love for our country. Eileen taught me a lot. She taught our staff a lot. There is no question that Bucks County is missing a very, very special person today without Eileen in it. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of myself, my family, and our entire staff, we send our deepest condolences to Eileen's family and all who knew and loved her. Eileen will be deeply missed and remembered for her love and devotion to her family, her friends, and her community.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a notable public servant within my district, Robert Winkler. After serving his community as a Zoning Officer, Code Enforcement Officer, and Building Inspector for twenty-four years, Robert ran for office and was chosen by the Borough of Penndel to be their Mayor. Throughout his twelve year tenure, Mayor Winkler worked diligently to improve the borough and the quality of life of all its citizens. Through his relationships with other elected officials at every level of government, as well as business owners and industry executives, Robert improved the delivery of municipal services. He increased communication between residents and businesses through the establishment of a semi-annual newsletter. Through his office, Mayor Winkler actively coordinated community events such as holiday parades, the Penndel Borough Community Day, and food drives. His work did not go unnoticed: not only was he re-elected three times, but Robert was also honored by the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs as Mayor of the Year in 2019. Today, I am proud to recognize Robert Winkler as an exceptional man of proven leadership who never wavered in his commitment to serving our community and country. We are incredibly grateful for Robert's decades of public service and the positive impact that he has had on his beloved home of Penndel and the entirety of our Bucks County community.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to pay tribute to the life and legacy of an extraordinary person, Mrs. Janice Gallagher, who our community tragically lost. Born in Philadelphia, Janice was a lifelong resident of Bensalem and was a proud graduate of Archbishop Ryan High School and Holy Family University. Janice worked at her family's farm market, D-G's Farm Market, for over 30 years. Janice went on to own and operate her own market, J&M Deli and Produce for many more years. Janice spent the last 5 years, Mr. Speaker, working at the Bensalem Police Department, a phenomenal organization of tremendously courageous women and men where she was widely respected by our law enforcement community throughout Bucks County. A longtime volunteer of St. Ephrem Catholic Church, Janice will always be remembered for her kind and giving spirit. I send my deepest condolences to Janice's beloved husband of 45 years, District Judge Mike Gallagher, her son, her siblings, and all who knew and loved her. I know I speak for our entire community when I say that we are all grateful for Janice's contributions during her incredible 66 years of life on this planet. Mr. Speaker, may the spirit of her generosity and service continue to inspire everybody in our community and everybody in this Chamber. National Human Trafficking Awareness Day

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, today is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, and I rise in support of the more than 40 million men, women, and children, who are victims of this global tragedy. Human trafficking is a $150 billion criminal industry that exploits vulnerable individuals and strips them of their fundamental human rights. Mr. Speaker, while this criminal conduct may seem a world away, it is very often taking place right in our own backyards. Human trafficking is reported in cities, suburbs, and rural areas in all 50 States in this Nation. Last year alone, the National Human Trafficking Hotline reported 221 cases of human trafficking in my home State of Pennsylvania and more than 10,000 cases nationwide. These staggering and horrific numbers underscore the need for increased victim support services, education and awareness, and legislative advocacy surrounding human trafficking. On this National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, let us renew our commitment to the global fight to end this abhorrent crime against humanity and redouble our efforts for the millions of survivors and their victims.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the exceptional young women in my district who received the Girl Scout's highest honor, the Gold Award, in 2021. Our community is proud of their achievement and grateful for their commitment to service. Sabrina Adler, Troop 2697. Chakrika Aluri, Juliette. Julia Cunningham, Troop 2147. Olivia Davis-Egan, Troop 2992. Grace Dudek, Troop 754. Genevieve Eirich, Troop 2974. Elayna Frost, Troop 230. Sarah Hamer, Troop 2285. Kaitlyn Harrington, Troop 753. Julia Henry, Troop 2020. Natalie Landis, Troop 21809. Jane Macaulay, Troop 21275. Juliana Marino, Troop 2697. Chloe McNabb, Troop 21733. Maura Ott, Troop 2578. Autumn Robinson-Davis, Troop 23. Kelly Schieder, Troop 2060. Tara Shevlin, Troop 2147. Ashley Shup, Troop 2367. Emma Smirk, Troop 2105. Taylor Smith, Troop 2385. Reagan Ward, Troop 2268.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the phenomenal young men and women in my district who attained the rank of Eagle Scout in 2021. Our community is proud of their achievement and grateful for their commitment to service. Aaron Michael, Troop 153; Adam L. Cameron, Troop 79; A. J. Hirsch, Troop 10; Alex Borzillo, Troop 137; Alex Freeman, Troop 145; Alex Wood, Troop 6; Andrew Dreyzin, Troop 6; Aryan Patil, Troop 137; Benjamin Gromer, Troop 30; Benjamin Parks Stanell, Troop 34; Bennett Drakas, Troop 172; Bennett Smith, Troop 10; Bobby Evans, Troop 71; Brendan Bolte, Troop 547; Bryce Pannone, Troop 102. Caleb Reese Gilbert, Troop 461; Cameron Walsh, Troop 229; Chris Strickland, Troop 6; Christian Gary van der Kleut, Troop 461; Christian Kruse, Troop 34; Christopher Richard Hogan, Troop 10; C.J. Frisbie, Troop 6; Collin McGuire, Troop 229; Connor Blaise Harkiewicz, Troop 10; Connor V. Wilson, Troop 61; Dalton Bell, Troop 133; Dan Goldberg, Troop 137; Daniel Allan Kitchen, Troop 11; David Slavtcheff, Troop 99; Dean Richard DiDomenico, Troop 147. Derek Lee Graver, Troop 16; Erik Ulmer, Troop 187; Ethan J. Ford, Troop 547; Ethan Wight, Troop 36; Evan Gerdy, Troop 30; Greg Kraynak, Troop 229; Gregory Andrew Sanborn, Troop 113; Hope Evanko, Troop 99G; Jack Flaherty, Troop 24; Jack Mannarino, Troop 10; Jack Reed, Troop 51; Jack Weldon, Troop 6; Jackson Rugarber, Troop 11; Jacob Rea, Troop 10; Jacob Webb, Troop 456. James Sholly, Jr., Troop 137; Jared Daniel, Troop 36; Jason Hemminger, Troop 27; Jayden Morris, Troop 48; Jesse Caimi, Troop 137; Jesse Hirowski, Troop 137; Jodi Decker, Troop 30G; John Hutchins, Troop 10; John P. Daley, Troop 16; John Saveriano, Troop 67; Joseph Benincasa, Troop 145; Joseph Cook, Troop 153; Joseph P. Deitzel, Troop 547; Joshua Rowlands, Troop 145; Justin Kruse, Troop 34. Kamren DeJesus, Troop 102; Larson Hunt, Troop 316; Logan McHenry, Troop 51; Marcus Milkowich, Troop 87; Matthew Aber, Troop 16; Matthew Grindle, Troop 67; Matthew Hanly, Troop 34; Matthew Miok, Troop 36; Michael Krajci, Troop 10; Michael Scott Lorenz, Troop 461; Michael Socci, Troop 6; Nathan Trilling, Troop 870; Nicholas Phillipps, Troop 27; Nick Fuchs, Troop 229; Owen Webster, Troop 36. Pawan Chivukula, Troop 10; Preston Ziegenfuss, Troop 14; Quinn Keller, Troop 67; Reed Stoltz, Troop 147; Robert M. Blum, Troop 10; Roman Berretta, Troop 36; Ryan Killenbeck, Troop 137; Ryan Swope, Troop 145; Sam Dessino, Troop 137; Sarah Elizabeth Hogan, Troop 99G; Sean M. Gutekunst, Troop 82; Stephen Nothum, Troop 24; Thomas Clifford Warren, Troop 64; Tim Goldberg, Troop 137; Timothy Grindle, Troop 167. Tristin Kilgore, Troop 99; Tyler Kennedy, Troop 6; Tyler Rugarber, Troop 10; Will Cusick, Troop 10; William Callum, Troop 36; William Holzel, Troop 141; William Isaac Leyland, Troop 461; Zachary Charles Lincoln, Troop 1.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Enes Kanter Freedom. Since being drafted third overall in the 2011 NBA draft, Mr. Freedom, a newly minted American citizen, has made our country incredibly proud. Growing up in Turkey, Enes says he did not know what freedom was until he moved to the United States. And since then, he has used his platform to speak out against human rights atrocities in China, Turkey, and beyond. Enes uses his voice for the people around the world who are voiceless. And because of his outspoken criticism of Turkey's authoritarian regime and inhumane treatment of political prisoners, the Turkish Government revoked Enes' passport and issued multiple warrants for his arrest, leaving him stateless for many years. And in China, broadcasts of Enes' basketball games were banned after he criticized the Chinese Communist Party's repressive regime and their human rights abuses against the Uighurs and Tibetans. Since facing backlash, Enes has made it his life's mission to push the boundaries of what is possible on and off the court. He understands and recognizes using his voice and the importance of it. After waiting six long years, Mr. Speaker, last week Enes finally became a U.S. citizen, and at his citizenship ceremony, he recited the oath using his newly minted last name, Freedom. And I cannot think of a more appropriate new last name for Enes, as he embodies all that freedom means. And by changing his last name, Enes can now carry that word with him wherever he goes. Mr. Speaker, I salute the brave work of Enes Kanter Freedom. At a time when others remain silent, he has spoken up. I congratulate Enes on his citizenship, and this United States Congress and all of us welcome him to our American family.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 100th birthday of Miriam Keller Siefken. Born on December 2, 1921, Mrs. Siefken grew up in Abington, Pennsylvania and was a graduate of Abington High School. She then raised her three children, Barbara, Edward and Larry with her late husband, Edward A. Siefken. Edward was a United States Army Veteran and served in the 9th Armored Division and the 52nd Armored Infantry Battalion. He also served at the Battle of the Bulge and Remagen Bridge and attained the rank of Sergeant. Together they raised a wonderful family. She is a proud grandmother of four as well as a great grandmother of three. Today, our community is celebrating Mrs. Siefken's birthday at Neshaminy Manor. We wish her well in the upcoming year and for many years to come. I ask that my colleagues join me in wishing a Happy Birthday to Mrs. Siefken and a profound thank you for her contributions to our community.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstand constituent from my district, Ms. Carolyn Riemer. Ms. Riemer obtained her bachelor's degree in journalism from Temple University in 1983, and her law degree from the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law in 1986. Shortly after graduating law school, Ms. Riemer entered government service with the Department of the Navy. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to support our nation's warfighters through her work as an attorney for the Department of the Navy and the Defense Logistics Agency. After more than 35 years of dedicated public service and professional leadership in the Department of Defense, Ms. Riemer is entering retirement. I am proud to recognize and celebrate Ms. Riemer as an exceptional attorney who has provided outstanding legal support to the benefit of our nation's armed forces. Ms. Riemer retires as the Counsel for NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support, where she is widely respected for her accurate, strategic, and creative legal advice. She is recognized and respected as an expert in all areas of federal acquisition, whether it be competitive contracting or performance based logistics contracting. She has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to overcome complex challenges, including those innumerable legal challenges that have arisen because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ms. Riemer's expert guidance and creative leadership have helped her clients face challenges and overcome adversity. Her dedicated and diligent work has contributed to keeping our fleet mission-ready. We are incredibly grateful for the positive impact Ms. Riemer has had through her long career of public service, and we wish Ms. Riemer countless blessings during her retirement.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a notable resident within my district, Thomas J. Gari. Mr. Gari obtained a bachelor's degree in Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering from my alma mater, the Pennsylvania State University in 1970, and later went on to achieve a master's degree in Business Administration from Villanova University in 1986. Following his education, Tom left his private sector career to join the Internal Revenue Service in 1999. In every stage of his career, Tom always worked to support and empower others, leveraging his extensive experience to identify complex case issues. find viable solutions, and produce consistent, quality results. In his final years at the IRS, Tom served as Engineering Team Manager, in which he managed all operational aspects executed by his team. Now, after more than twenty-two impressive years of dedicated government service and professional leadership, Tom is entering retirement. I am proud to recognize Thomas J. Gari as an exceptional man of character, guided by a sense to better his community and country. He has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to overcome complex challenges throughout the years as well as a steadfast dedication to supporting his colleagues. We are incredibly grateful for the positive impact that Tom has had on our community, and we wish him well in his retirement.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, on November 5th, I proudly recognized dozens of Chinese-American Veterans from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania who served gallantly in our United States military during World War II. Today, I rise once again to further acknowledge additional service members who committed themselves to defending our national ideals and values in the gravest hours of that war. Ging G. Ju, Hoi Yook Wong, Ging T. Chin, Harvey C. Young, George W. Jung, Leong Q. Yee, Poy Quon Fong, Jan Lim, William Lee Sr., Mun H. Wong, Yook Been Eng, Frank Wong Leung. In 2018, Congress passed and the President signed into law S. 1050-- The Chinese-American World War II Veteran Congressional Gold Medal Act, which authorized the Congressional Gold Medal to be awarded to these individuals in recognition for both their service to our Nation during a time at war and to our Nation's Chinese American community. Not only did they help in defeating our Nation's enemies, but they overcame the many challenges they and their families had due to the existence of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. As a matter of fact, 40 percent, of the Chinese who served were not even citizens of the United States at the time. It was not that they did not want to become citizens, but that they were denied that right under the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. However, due to their service and sacrifices for our Nation during WWII, Congress finally repealed this unjust law in 1943. This laid the groundwork for many of our Veterans to return home after the war and to attain the opportunities that they rightfully earned in their military service to our Nation. I would again respectfully like our Congress today to show our appreciation and gratitude to these great Americans. We will always remember and treasure their personal sacrifices and contributions to our Nation.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the following Chinese American Veterans from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania who served gallantly in our United States military during WWII: Henry Chang, Joseph Ying Yuen, Mong Quong Lee, Tuck Y. Young, Going T. Chin, Arthur Jun Lee, Yee Yuen, Anthony Wong, Mon Sheu Lee, Mun Pon Wong, Livingston Chunn, S. Young Louie, Hong G. Lee, Charles Nong Louie, Stanley Chunn, Harry Jung, Bon Yue Li, Harry G. Chin, Benjamin CK Tom, Paul Moy Toy, Chin J. Bow. George R. Jung, Yen Yee, Raymond Lee, Mun H. Wong, Robert L. Moy, Chester Gon Chu, Jan Louie, George D. Lee, Louie W. Chung, Ralph Wing Jung, Ming B. Wing, Jake Fong, Pow-Hen L. Lee, Hang C. Young, Paul Toy, Sik Woo Ting. James S. Louie, Dun S. Mark, Ming K. Ngee, Going G. Ju, Dunai Harry Yee, Richard D. Lem, Fan G. Ngee, James Lum, Ng Way Yee, Sing Shang Ching, Hol Yook Wong, George Jung, Mun Pon Wong. In 2018, Congress passed and the President signed into law S. 1050-- The Chinese-American World War II Veteran Congressional Gold Medal Act, which authorized the Congressional Gold Medal to be awarded to these individuals in recognition for both their service to our Nation during a time at war and to our Nation's Chinese American community. Not only did they help in defeating our Nation's enemies, but they overcame the many challenges they and their families had due to the existence of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. As a matter of fact, 40% of the Chinese who served were not even citizens of the United States at the time. It was not that they did not want to become citizens, but that they were denied that right under the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. However, due to their service and sacrifices for our Nation during WWII, Congress finally repealed this unjust law in 1943. This laid the groundwork for many of our Veterans to return home after the war and to attain the opportunities that they rightfully earned in their military service to our Nation. I would respectfully like our Congress today to show our appreciation and gratitude to these great Americans. We will always remember and treasure their personal sacrifices and contributions to our Nation.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an individual I recently had the pleasure of having a conversation with, a singer- songwriter who, more importantly, is a tremendous supporter of our troops, John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting. John started Five for Fighting in 1995, and shortly thereafter rose to fame after releasing the Grammy-nominated ballad ``Superman''. While written and released well before 9/11, ``Superman'' became something of an anthem during the tough days following 9/11. As our Nation came together as one, ``Superman'' struck a chord with the survivors and families of those we lost on that terrible day, as well as our troops serving around the world. And its lyrics resonated with people and comforted those who needed it the most. Mr. Speaker, since then, John has been deeply involved with our troops. He has performed at dozens of USO shows for our servicemembers overseas and also works with several veteran-oriented charities. John has spent the past two decades writing deeply personal songs that include social messages that make an emotional connection and invoke the human spirit. Some of these songs are included on the ``CD for the Troops'' project which is a collection of 13 songs from top artists, including John's, that was compiled specially for U.S. military members. Since 2007, John has distributed over 1 million copies of ``CD for the Troops'' to servicemembers and their families around the world as a way of thanking them for the sacrifices that they have made and continue to make. John's support of the U.S. Armed Forces is unwavering and, like many of us, when he saw the devastating images coming out of Afghanistan during the onset of the U.S. withdrawal in August, he was horrified. Terrified mothers were throwing their babies over barbed wire fences and men were clinging on to military aircraft as they lifted off, all in an attempt to flee the Taliban. How could this be happening? John then did what many musicians in pain do. He sat at his piano and he wrote a song. He penned ``Blood on My Hands'' which is a song that mourns the Americans who died and the ones who were left behind in Afghanistan due to the failures of the administration. ``Blood on My Hands'' encapsulates the emotions that I and many Americans felt following the terrorist attacks in Kabul that killed 13 U.S. servicemembers and dozens of Afghani allies. Similar to ``Superman's'' effect on people post-9/11, ``Blood on My Hands'' went viral and quickly became an anthem for veterans and servicemembers in the wake of the deadly attacks in Kabul. Mr. Speaker, many people cautioned John not to release the song. Still, he kept coming back to the idea that this song sent an important moral message about the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. John says of ``Blood on My Hands'': ``It's not a political song. It is a moral message about promises that we made to people there, that we promised to protect, that we left there. We broke our promise. It's about accountability and admitting when you make mistakes because that's how you can rectify them and learn not to do them again.'' Mr. Speaker, I could not agree more with this sentiment. What happened to no person left behind? We put American citizens, SIV holders, and Afghan allies' lives at risk. The United States of America and this administration broke that promise to these people. The administration's decisions surrounding the withdrawal will go down, I believe, as one of the worst foreign policy decisions in American history. As a result, American lives were needlessly lost. It is time our leaders reflect on the mistakes that were made and take accountability for failures so that we can do better for the American people and our allies in the future. Mr. Speaker, John's work is evidence of the power that music holds. It brings people from different corners of the world together. It transcends time, and I am confident that John's song, ``Blood on My Hands'', will do just that. We will never forget 9/11 and, in the same vein, we can never forget the heroes who fought in the subsequent 20-year war in Afghanistan. Thanks to brave storytellers like John Ondrasik, we won't forget these heroes. Mr. Speaker, John is a true patriot, and I applaud and admire his courage to stand up for what he believes in, and even more so, demand accountability from our Nation's leaders.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Delaware River Basin Commission. Founded in 1961, this collaborative partnership between the federal government and the four states which share the Delaware River has successfully managed interstate water sources without regard to political boundaries. For nearly six million Pennsylvanians living in the Delaware River Basin, including those in Bucks and Montgomery counties, the Commission has reduced water loss, improved water quality, mitigated floods, and conducted stewardship and education efforts, all while saving the taxpayers millions of dollars. The Delaware River Basin Commission's efficient and beneficial public service is admirable, and this year, as it celebrates its 60th anniversary, we express our appreciation for the impact that it has had on our environment and natural habitats, our region, and our local communities.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I come to the floor today to recognize Maxim Skripnik and the Gostomel Animal Shelter, an amazing individual and an amazing organization. The Gostomel Animal Shelter, located just outside of Kiev, Ukraine, is serving homeless animals in Ukraine, both in Kiev and outside. As the co-chair of the Ukraine Caucus here in Congress, Madam Speaker, I recently visited that country, and one of my many stops was at the Gostomel Shelter. This was originally established by the Kyiv Society for the Protection of Animals. For the past 20 years, the Gostomel Shelter has rescued abandoned animals off the streets of Ukraine, nursed them back to health, and gave them a second chance at life. The shelter is operated by Maxim, who graciously gave me a tour of the facility during my visit to Ukraine. Maxim has devoted his entire life to providing care for these vulnerable animals. Madam Speaker, there are an estimated 50,000 stray animals on the streets of Ukraine. This poses a considerable risk to the welfare of the animals and the overall public health of the community. The future for the majority of these vulnerable and abandoned and animals is bleak, but the Gostomel Shelter provides them with the opportunity to find a loving forever home. Since its inception, the Gostomel Shelter has advocated for their animals and promoted humane methods of controlling the ever-growing population of stray animals. Each victory, no matter how small, creates an environment more accepting of these vulnerable animals and proves that they can be rehabilitated and adopted into loving families. The shelter, which is housed in a former cowshed, provides safekeeping for up to 700 stray and abandoned dogs and cats. In 2006, the shelter established a veterinary hospital and rehabilitation center, which is now one of the largest in all of Ukraine. Here, homeless animals are sterilized, after which they undergo compulsory rehabilitation in a hospital and return to the shelter where they await their forever homes. Madam Speaker, the Gostomel Shelter, Maxim, and KSPA do not have reliable sources of funding and permanent employees. They often rely on public donations and volunteers to provide food and medicine to the animals. During my visit, I witnessed firsthand how Maxim and these volunteers work tirelessly, literally around the clock, to ensure these innocent animals have a second chance. Madam Speaker, I applaud the incredible work being done by Maxim and all the volunteers of the shelter. I paid a visit to the mayor of Kiev to relay all of my experiences and the positive impact that Maxim and those volunteers are making, and I wanted to formally recognize them here in this Chamber.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the following individuals for receiving the Girl Scouts of the United States of America Gold Award, the highest achievement a Girl Scout can earn. To receive this distinguished accolade, a Girl Scout must demonstrate outstanding accomplishments in the areas of leadership, community service, career planning, and personal development. On behalf of all residents of the First Congressional District, I congratulate these emerging leaders on their achievement. We are incredibly grateful for their commitment to service and the lasting impact they will have on our community. Name and Troop No.: Amylynn F. Garner, 7656. Anne P. Johnson, 2670. Anusha Sindia, 7271. Catherine J. Smith, 2974. Caylee Elizabeth Jumbelic, 229. Corinne E. Carlson, 2044. Georgia J. Moon, 2670. Julia K. Trainer, 2135. Kathryn Myer, 2401. Mary C. Gordon, 21267. Megan L. Swirsding, 2056. Rebekah Atkins, 2056.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the following individuals for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest achievement of the Boy Scouts of America. Since its inception in 1911, only four percent of scouts achieve this rank after a lengthy review process. On behalf of all residents of the First Congressional District, I congratulate these emerging leaders on their achievement. We are incredibly grateful for their commitment to service and the positive impact they have on our community. Name: Troop No. Aaryan Goel, 36 Alexander Danchak, 36 Andrew John Blemings, 230 Anthony Gambescia, Jr., 99 Augustine James Covelens, 610 Christian D. Allemang, 542 Christian Wolf, 64 Christopher Farese, 99 Christopher James Quinlan, 153 Christopher Kingsley, 30 Christopher Lee Myers, 10 Christopher S. Pullen, Jr., 53 Christopher Stockburger, 99 Cole Sheppeck, 99 Colin Chaar, 99 Connor W. Bautz, 10 Dakota Mihelcic, 461 Daniel Forsythe, 380 Daniel Haschets, 71 Douglas James Lang, 153 Erik H. Kleinfelder, Jr., 130 Erik William Fisher, 153 Evan Grant Storms, 277 Grant Rokuskie, 139 Henry Adams Polli, 99 Jacob Outcalt, 10 Jaiesh Madaka, 10 Jared Loeper, 147 John Wyatt Keating, 10 Lars N. Knudsen, 542 Matthew Allen Dohalick, 168 Matthew Barthelmes, 547 Matthew C. Small, 82 Maxwell Steven Quinn, 71 Michael Bahner, 71 Michael Joseph Elia, 145 Nico Valerio, 10 Pranav Chivukula, 10 Rajan Patel, 380 Robert Louis Lucot, 200 Robert P. Oleynick, 10 Ryan Henry, 130 Samuel Ryan Barndt, 13 Sean M. Gutekunst, 82 Stephen F. Jayne, 99 Thomas H. Stacherski, 36 Travis Fazio, 79 Victor Sorace, 168 Viet N. Tran, 542 Wesley J. Dearolf, 30 William Renson, 34 Zachary Danchak, 36