Brian Fitzpatrick

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Ukraine Support Act. This vote transcends politics. This vote is about freedom. Just days ago, Russia launched over 650 drones and 73 missiles at Ukrainian cities. Families were murdered in their homes, and children were forced into shelters. Once again, Vladimir Putin showed the world that he has no interest in peace. He is only interested in terror. Five years into this illegal war, the Ukrainian people are defending their country against Russia's brutal aggression. Against all odds, they have transformed and modernized their military into one of the strongest and most capable fighting forces in Europe. They have pioneered technologies that are changing warfare itself, from advanced drone operations to battlefield innovation that militaries around the world are now studying. Mr. Speaker, I have stood shoulder to shoulder with Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines during this conflict. I have heard the artillery fire. I have watched young men and women defend their country with extraordinary courage. They remind me of another generation of fighters: the Americans who defended democracy abroad during World War II, our Greatest Generation. They are fighting for their freedom. They are fighting for democracy. They are fighting for global peace and global security. Mr. Speaker, the Ukrainian people are not asking for Americans to fight this war. They are asking for the tools to defend themselves and for the partnership of a nation that has always stood for liberty. The Ukraine Support Act strengthens Ukraine's ability to protect civilians; extends lend-lease authority; provides critical military assistance; sanctions Russia's war machine, its shadow fleet, and those responsible for kidnapping innocent Ukrainian children by the tens of thousands; and makes clear that aggression on this planet has consequences. We must send a clear message not only to Russia but to every dictator watching us tonight around the world: America will not stand by while free nations are attacked.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a woman whose life was a gift to Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and whose legacy will live far beyond the years she walked among us, Linda Salley of Levittown. Linda was a visionary leader, a gifted educator, a keeper of history, a builder of bridges, and a trusted partner in service. Above all, she was a dear friend. Mr. Speaker, there are some people who do not simply pass through a community. They enlarge it. They deepen its memory. They strengthen its character and strengthen its conscience. They leave behind a light by which others may find their way. Linda Salley was such a person. Her life was rooted in faith, expressed in service, kindness, courage, and that steady belief that every person carries a story worthy of being heard. Linda once reflected that every joy and sorrow, every frustration and hope, every human encounter becomes part of one exquisite quilt. In many ways, that was the work of her life. She took the scattered pieces of memory, stories that were neglected, voices that were overlooked, chapters left out of our common telling, and she stitched them into something whole, something beautiful, and something enduring. As a teacher and administrator, Linda shaped young minds. As a founding member, president, and executive director of the African American Museum of Bucks County, she shaped the soul of our community. It was the honor of my life to work alongside Linda over the years and to see up close the depth of her conviction and the power of her vision. One of my greatest honors, Mr. Speaker, has been helping Linda and the African American Museum of Bucks County secure a permanent home at the historic Boone Farm in Middletown Township. For years, the African American Museum of Bucks County carried its mission across our region, into schools, museums, churches, civic spaces, and community gatherings, bringing stories too often left untold into the light. For Linda, Boone Farm was never just a location. It was a fulfillment of a promise that the history she worked so faithfully to preserve would finally have a place to stand, a place to teach, and a place to endure. Long after today, children will walk through those doors. Families will see themselves in the story, and neighbors will learn, remember, and understand. In that sacred work and memory, Linda's hand will still be guiding us. Mr. Speaker, Linda Salley understood a truth our Nation must never forget: History is not merely what we inherit. It is what we are brave enough to preserve, honest enough to tell, and faithful enough to pass on. Bucks County is a better place because Linda Salley lived. Our children are wiser. Our history is richer, and our community is more whole. Mr. Speaker, we mourn Linda's passing, but we will always celebrate the extraordinary life she lived and the work that she will pass on to others. The light that she lit is now ours to carry.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of accountants in my district and across the Nation in recognition of National Accounting Day. This day, recognized by organizations throughout the country, honors the hundreds of thousands of accounting professionals whose work strengthens the foundation of our economy. CPAs promote accuracy, transparency, and integrity in financial reporting. From the local CPA advising families and small businesses to those serving large and multinational organizations, CPAs play an important role in every community--supporting American entrepreneurship and job creation, compliance and understanding an increasingly complex financial landscape. The accounting profession is defined by rigorous education, examination, and licensing requirements, adherence to high professional standards, and a strong commitment to ethics and competence. These safeguards help protect investors and taxpayers and uphold confidence in financial markets. As technology and financial systems continue to evolve, CPAs apply advanced skills in mathematics, data analysis, and technology to measure performance, manage risk, and build trust. Their work reflects the growing connection between accounting and STEM disciplines-- combining technical expertise with professional judgement to support innovation and economic growth. I applaud the dedication and service of CPAs in my district of Pennsylvania and throughout the country, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing May 19th as National Accounting Day.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and extraordinary legacy of Llywellon Edwin Mohr, known to his family as ``Valley'' and to his community as ``Lew,'' who passed away on April 20, 2026, at the age of 96. Lew was a proud resident of Morrisville, Pennsylvania, a devoted family man, a veteran, and one of the most dedicated servants to his community that Bucks County has ever known. Lew was born in Upper Saucon Township, Pennsylvania, beneath the Bethlehem Star atop Lehigh Mountain. He was the beloved husband of the late Isabelle C. Mohr, with whom he shared more than 55 years of marriage. Together, they raised two children, Duane Llywellon Mohr and Debra Kay Pigott, and Lew was blessed to see his family grow to include six grandchildren and more than a dozen great-grandchildren. Lew was a proud graduate of Pennsbury High School, a member of its very first graduating class, and served as its first-ever Student Council President. Just days after graduating on June 13, 1949, he enlisted in the United States Air Force on June 16, 1949, and left home on June 20, 1949. He served 28 months of active duty in Germany during the Korean Conflict, returning home in 1952 after completing 40 months of total service to his country. Following his military service, Lew built a distinguished career with New Jersey Bell Telephone Company, later Bell Atlantic, and now Verizon, where he served as an Assistant Manager for 38 years before retiring. He remained deeply engaged in the telecommunications community as Secretary of the Telecom Pioneers of the Trenton/ Burlington Life Member Club and was honored with the Pioneer of the Year Award in 2001. He was a devoted member of the Morrisville Presbyterian Church for more than 65 years, serving as a Deacon for 15 years and an Elder for 6 years, and was also a proud Mason with the Newtown Lodge No. 427 F.&A.M. and a life member of American Legion Post No. 0834. Perhaps no chapter of Lew's life speaks more powerfully to his character than his more than sixty years of service to the Boy Scouts of America. He began as Scoutmaster in 1954 with Troops 3 and 46 in Morrisville, and over the decades, he shaped the lives of countless young people through the Playwicki District and Bucks County Council, now the Washington Crossing Council. The honors he earned in Scouting are a testament to a life of selfless mentorship: the Silver Beaver, Wood Badge, Scoutmaster's Key, Scouter's Key, the James E. West Fellow Award, the Luther Lord Award, the Commissioner's Arrowhead, the Vigil Honor of the Order of the Arrow, the Masonic Daniel Carter Beard Award, the Legion of Honor Award of the Chapel of the Four Chaplains, and many others. In 1991, the Bucks County Commissioners proclaimed November 1st as ``Lew Mohr Day'' in recognition of his extraordinary contributions. Lew Mohr lived ninety-six years of purposeful and faithful service to his country, his family, his faith, and the young people whose lives he helped shape. He leaves behind a legacy that stretches across generations, and our community is a better place because of him.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, of all of the debates that we have had on this House floor, I have yet to be so perplexed as I am with this one. There is so much conflation going on between title I, traditional FISA, and title VII, section 702. There is so much conflation over the collection of evidence versus the querying of already lawfully collected data. Everybody in this Chamber has been talking past each other for years on this issue. The Fourth Amendment applies to the collection of evidence. That has been the case from the very founding of our country. This so-called warrant requirement, Mr. Speaker, what they are asking for is a double warrant requirement. A warrant requirement is on the collection of evidence. They are seeking to attach a warrant requirement to the querying of already lawfully collected data. That is a secondary warrant requirement, the first time in American history that we would ever be doing such a thing. That would shut down the law enforcement system. You would have to expand the Federal judiciary by a factor of 100 to keep up with that work, and it would put us on pre-9/11 footing. We cannot do that. By the way, after we passed RISAA--56 reforms, by the way--the 2-year report card is in. There are zero abuses. Even though that is the case, we still went further in this bill before the House today and reaffirmed that the Fourth Amendment protections will always apply to 702 queries, in addition to all of the other reforms. I cannot, for the life of me, understand what is left to object to on this tool because I can promise you that if we were having this debate a week after 9/11, there wouldn't be a single soul on this floor voting against this bill. Let us not drop our guard just because we are several decades past 9/ 11 because we never ever want to see that happen again.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his support for this legislation and bringing it to the floor. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 5334, the Supporting Early-childhood Educators' Deductions Act, also known as the SEED Act. Mr. Speaker, in Pennsylvania, more than 68,000 early-childhood educators support our youngest learners every single day. The first 5 years of a child's life lay down the foundation for how they learn, how they grow, and how they succeed. These educators are central to that process. They do far more than teach. They create safe, engaging environments where children can thrive. Despite earning very modest wages, these educators often reach into their own pocket to stock their classrooms and ensure their students have the resources they need to succeed. That level of dedication speaks to their commitment, Mr. Speaker, not just to their students but to the communities they serve and our future workforce. Under current law, early-childhood educators cannot deduct these out- of-pocket expenses. That is a gap the SEED Act will fix. The SEED Act offers a simple, bipartisan solution by extending the existing educator expense deduction to early-childhood educators. It is a commonsense measure that supports educators and invests in our youngest learners during their most critical years. I thank my friend, the gentleman from California (Mr. Panetta), for his partnership and his care and concern for our educators and our young people across America. I urge all my colleagues to support this legislation to better equip and uplift our early-childhood educators and those they serve across this Nation.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Florence Kawoczka of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, a leader and a friend, who has devoted her life to helping families build not just houses but lasting foundations. For more than 14 years as CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County, Florence has helped create stability and open doors to new possibilities for so many families in our region. She has touched their lives forever. Under her leadership, Habitat Bucks partnered with over 50 homeowners, repaired more than 400 homes, and launched innovative programs that ensure lasting affordability for years to come. I have had the privilege of seeing those moments when a family steps into their home for the first time, not just receiving keys but beginning a new chapter. Mr. Speaker, as Florence retires, we thank her for her legacy that has truly strengthened our community. Congratulations to Florence. We wish her best wishes in this next chapter.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome and thank our guest chaplain, Pastor Aaron Derstine for offering today's opening prayer. Pastor Derstine currently serves as the senior pastor for Hopewell Christian Fellowship in Telford, Pennsylvania. He received his academic and ministry training at Wheaton College before entering full-time ministry in 2002 and continues to serve as a staff writer with Eagles' Wings Ministries in Buffalo, New York. For many years, Pastor Derstine has devoted himself to studying and teaching the Word of God, speaking at churches and events both here at home and abroad. He is also a gifted musician and a worship leader, using his musical talents across the country and internationally, including work amongst Jewish and Arab communities in Israel and the broader Middle East. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for Pastor Derstine's prayer this morning. We thank him for his faithful ministry. I thank Pastor Derstine, and may God bless him and his continued service.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2319, the Women and Lung Cancer Research Preventive Services Act. Lung cancer is the leading cancer death among women, and it disproportionately impacts women who have never even smoked. This bipartisan bill requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs, to conduct an interagency review of current research on women and lung cancer. Madam Speaker, this bill addresses the disparities women with lung cancer face, and it addresses it head-on, strengthening research, access to preventative services, and raising awareness. This is a significant step in addressing a disease that has left far too many women in my community and across the country vulnerable. The unique impact of lung cancer on women requires an investment in strengthening research and access to preventative care. I look forward to continuing to work across the aisle to ensure that real progress is delivered, that this bill makes it across the finish line, and that women and families impacted by this devastating disease finally get the help that they need. I also thank my friend and fellow Pennsylvanian Brendan Boyle for his partnership and leadership on this very, very important policy, and all my colleagues on the Energy and Commerce Committee for working to advance this critical bill to save lives. Finally, I thank the tireless advocates who have championed this legislation for years and who have been working to address this disparity in cancer research and care. Madam Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support H.R. 2319.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Public Safety Telecommunicator Week and to honor the men and women who serve as 911 emergency dispatchers across our Nation. America's 911 dispatchers are true first responders. Before a police officer arrives on scene, before an ambulance turns the corner, before a firefighter enters a burning building, there is a dispatcher on the line, gathering critical information, coordinating a response, and providing support. Without these workers, other public safety personnel would be unable to reach people in need and calls for help would go unanswered. These dedicated professionals answer the call no matter the circumstances, through blackouts, mass casualty events, natural disasters, and public health emergencies. They work in high-stress, fast-paced environments that demand steady composure and an unwavering commitment to the public they serve every day. Yet for too long, 911 dispatchers have gone unrecognized for the work they perform. Despite being the critical link in our public safety infrastructure, they remain classified as administrative and clerical workers. This misclassification has fueled persistent underinvestment: insufficient pay, inadequate mental health resources, and staffing. Too many of these public servants experience burnout and emotional exhaustion from years of exposure to traumatic calls without adequate support. In some facilities, staffing shortages are so acute that dispatchers sleep at their posts rather than returning home. At the same time, new technologies. including text-to-911, live video-to-911, and Next Generation 911 systems, are fundamentally changing the nature of this work. Congress has invested in these technologies, but those investments will fall short if we do not invest equally in those who operate them. Training, mental health resources, and fair compensation must keep pace with the demands we place on this workforce. I am proud to stand with AFSCME and the nearly 100,000 public safety workers they represent in calling for the reclassification of 911 dispatchers as protective service workers. Reclassification is the foundation for the investment, resources, and dignity this workforce has long deserved. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring America's 911 dispatchers during Public Safety Telecommunicator Week, and to commit to ensuring these vital public servants receive the recognition, support, and respect they are owed.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Helen Humphreys, affectionately known by so many as the Duchess of Edgely, who passed away on March 28, 2026. A longtime resident of Hulmeville and Edgely, Helen was a woman whose life was defined by compassion, warmth, and an unmatched devotion to others. She built a successful career in the printing industry, loved her summers in Townsends Inlet, and remained a spirited, vibrant person, even shooting better than her age on the golf course at 85 years old. More than anything, Mr. Speaker, Helen will be remembered for the home and heart she shared so generously with others. Alongside her beloved husband, Jim, she created a place of comfort, laughter, and belonging for family, friends, and neighbors alike. Helen touched countless lives with her kindness, her humor, and her open-door spirit. She will be deeply missed, and I am proud to honor her memory here today.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the incredible life, legacy, and memory of a constituent from my district, Arthur J. Younglove, who was a cherished father and member of our Bucks County community. Arthur passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026, at the age of 86, surrounded by his loving family. His life is a testament to service, community, and a true dedication to preserving the legacy of our community. Born and raised in Bristol, Pennsylvania, on April 2, 1939, Arthur grew up enamored by the performances of the Bracken Cavaliers, a long- running American Legion junior drum and bugle corps named for the Robert W. Bracken American Legion Post 382. He made it his goal early in his life to join the Cavaliers to bring the same sense of awe and patriotism to Bucks County and beyond. In 1955, he joined the Bristol Bracken Cavaliers as a horn player, where he helped contribute to the numerous honors and accolades the Cavaliers would acquire through their touring. After graduating from St. Joseph's Preparatory School, Arthur joined the U.S. Army in 1961. He served honorably during his enlistment but in 1964, decided not to reenlist and instead return to Bristol. There, he found that his beloved Cavaliers had been diminished from their heights during their early years, and so he took it upon himself to become the corps' director. In his six-year tenure as director, Arthur successfully recruited around 200 new recruits, instilling in them the same sense of patriotism and pride that he felt as a young boy. The Bracken Cavaliers continued their rigorous touring schedule and returned to their prestige as an award-winning corps, ultimately winning the Eastern State Championship in 1968. Arthur finished his time as director in 1970 and began focusing on his career at Rohm and Haas, where he spent over four decades. He married Rhonda Barker and had three children with her--Leeann, Catherine, and James. They traveled the country together, settling in Willingboro and Delran, New Jersey. Throughout that time, Arthur never forgot his hometown. His enduring love and passion for the community that raised him eventually pushed him back to Lower Bucks County in 2017, where he spent his time collecting memorabilia from the heyday of the Bracken Cavaliers. In 2022, on their 100th Birthday, Arthur helped to gather any alumni he could for a celebratory performance and the commemoration of their work with a mural, forever standing as a testament to the proud group that brought pride to Bristol. Arthur is survived by his wife, Grace Jones-Younglove; his children, Leeann, Catherine, and James; as well as his grandchildren, Caroline, Maura, Briget, Grace, Maeve, Tierney, and Isla. He will also be sadly missed by his sisters. Helen and Mary, as well as the members of the Robert W. Bracken American Legion Post 382. Mr. Speaker, Arthur lived a life full of pride, love, and joy as a pillar of our community. Lives like that of Arthur Younglove do not often make national headlines. Yet it is precisely these lives lived in service to others, rooted in community, and guided by quiet dedication, that form the backbone of our Nation. May his memory be cherished, and may we continue to honor his legacy as someone who represented the very best of America's hometown spirit. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his memory, celebrating his contributions, and extending our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional individual from my district--Bucks County's own, Sgt. Michael DeBonis. A courageous U.S. Army veteran and dedicated public servant, Sgt. DeBonis assisted thousands of veterans in our community in receiving the benefits they earned, organized trips to war memorials, and led seminars with local law enforcement to better assist veterans in crisis. I proudly commend him, following decades of committed service to not only the people of Bucks County, but to our Nation as well. Drafted into the U.S. Army on May 7, 1968, Michael served in Vietnam, specializing as a Military Policeman. Through his resolute dedication to our Nation, he earned the Army Commendation Medal with 2 Overseas Bars, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with a Silver Star for five campaigns, and the Good Conduct Medal. Returning home to his wife Lynne in December of 1969, Michael devoted his career to serving the brave veterans who served alongside him. As Senior Commander of VFW Post 6393 and Member of the VA Advisory Board for the Horsham, Pennsylvania Clinic, Sgt. DeBonis provided strategic guidance, advisory services, event organization, and VA assistance to countless veterans throughout my district. The friendship and camaraderie with his fellow veterans remain unwavering and given without reservation. Sgt. DeBonis was not only dedicated, but he was also selfless. While serving as Vice President of the Bucks County Tour of Honor, he organized free trips for thousands of veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit their respective war memorials. In his free time, Sgt. DeBonis is an avid lover of the outdoors. On land, he is an ardent bird photographer, woodworker, astronomer, and restaurateur. On the water, he is a passionate fly fisherman. Through these pursuits, he not only enriched his own life, but also fostered a deep appreciation for nature, craftsmanship, and his community above all. Most notably, Sgt. DeBonis is known as a trusted mentor and leader. He is always willing to assist a fellow veteran, being the right person to turn to for invaluable guidance and support. His indispensable knowledge, veteran advocacy, and sound judgement are just a few of the hallmarks that make Sergeant Michael DeBonis the outstanding man he is today. Mr. Speaker, I extend my heartfelt recognition to Sgt. Michael DeBonis for his ongoing veteran advocacy and thank him for his decades of distinguished service to the citizens of Bucks County and beyond. His leadership and dedication will leave a lasting mark on the community he so faithfully serves.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Jim Donovan for his more than two decades of service to CBS 3 Philadelphia. As so many in our community know, Jim was an award-winning anchor of the CBS Philadelphia morning and noon newscasts. He has also been a dedicated philanthropist. and now is being recognized as the 2026 Autism Cares Foundation CARES Award recipient. During his time with CBS 3, Jim has embodied the highest standards of journalistic integrity while being a warm inviting presence for all the viewers tuning in each morning and afternoon throughout the Philadelphia region. He is a 15-time Emmy Award winner in addition to being nominated an additional 20 times and has had a career in broadcast television that accolades alone cannot capture the magnitude of. Jim has reported from 55 countries across the globe, covered Pope Francis' visit to Philadelphia in 2015, and has earned both national recognition and the deep respect from colleagues and audiences alike. Jim began his career in broadcasting in 1987 as an intern at WWOR-TV in New Jersey and later moved on to hold roles at CNBC in New York City along with WGHP in North Carolina and WBNS in Ohio. In 2004, he began his tenure at CBS Philadelphia as an investigative journalist. He later took the helm of the morning newscast, helping to relaunch it to one of the region's most-watched programs. Outside of his outstanding career, Jim has been a community advocate since he planted his roots here in our community. He has advocated for several different groups, using his platform and his voice to bring awareness to a variety of causes. One such group is Bucks County's Autism Cares Foundation, which was founded in 2007 to focus on improving the life experiences of individuals with disabilities. Jim has been the emcee of many of their events including their annual CARES gala along with their Races 4 Resources annual charity 5k. He also has graced audiences and guests with his charming personality as the auctioneer for the gala's annual silent auction as well. Throughout his relationship with the Autism Cares Foundation, he has become a cherished member of their community, a strong voice and advocate, as well as a friend and role model to many of individuals the Foundation serves. It is without a doubt that he is a deserving recipient of the 2026 CARES Award. As Jim begins his well-earned retirement, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to him on not just an incredible career, but for his tireless efforts to serve our community. May he have many wonderful and restful years ahead of him.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an extraordinary milestone in the life of an incredible constituent from my district, Mrs. Norma Welker, who has recently turned 100 years old. Born on April 9, 1926, Norma grew up in Coal Township, Pennsylvania as the daughter of a schoolteacher. She spent her childhood enjoying all the surrounding countryside in rural Pennsylvania, instilling in her a passion for nature that would last a lifetime. Her childhood memories camping in the wilderness are to this day some of her most cherished. In addition to camping and exploring nature, she found herself drawn to cosmetology, enjoying the latest fashion trends of her time during the interwar period. In 1944, she graduated from Coal Township High School and later attended beauty school in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. During her time there, she stayed in a YMCA to save money while she got her education. Her wise financial decisions and frugal living paid off when she was finally able to open her own beauty shop out of her family home in Shamokin, PA at 19 years old. Named My Lady's, her beauty shop was a staple in her community, bringing in individuals from Shamokin as well as the neighboring towns. She brought joy and kindness to all who shopped with her. A few short years later, Norma married the love of her life, Clifford H. Welker, a World War II veteran, on August 15, 1948. Together, they had two children, Glenn and Lynn, and soon after moved to Morrisville in Bucks County when Clifford took a job as a blacksmith at American Bridge in Philadelphia. She continued her hair styling work in Trenton, New Jersey, before ultimately deciding to focus full time on raising her family. Even still, she enjoyed occasionally doing the hair of her friends and neighbors in her free time. In her later years, Norma fully pursued her passion for the great outdoors and traveling. She was able to visit all 50 states in the U.S., with the highlight of her travels being her cross-country road trip to Alaska in 1976 where she camped for 3 months in a tent. She has an adventurous spirit, and her travels and exploits certainly demonstrate that deep desire to experience all that our Nation has to offer. Now, in her 100th year of life, Norma remains an incredible source of kindness and warmth, enjoying her time with her daughter Lynn and two grandchildren. She continues to brighten the day of every individual who is lucky enough to cross her path and is always looking forward to the next gathering of her family and friends. As we celebrate Norma's 100th birthday, we honor her enduring dedication to our community as a traveler, mother, stylist and a woman of enduring love and joy.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Vietnam War Veterans Day to honor an extraordinary constituent from my district, Colonel James E. McCloskey, United States Marine Corps (Retired), who served with distinction and honor during the Vietnam War. Colonel McCloskey began his service in 1965 when he joined the United States Marine Corps and was an Honor Graduate from the Officer Candidate Course. In 1969, he began his first deployment to Vietnam, where he served in a Marine Reconnaissance Unit. During the was, Colonel McCloskey carried immense responsibility at a young age, being responsible for not only mission critical tasks such as training local militias, but also the lives of his own men. He made decisions under pressure that would shape the lives of those under his command, and in doing so earned their trust and respect. By the time he left Vietnam, he had been awarded two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star. After completing his service with the Marine Corps, Colonel McCloskey transferred to the United States Army Reserve. During his time in the Reserve, he served in many significant positions including Battalion and Brigade Command. In 1999, he retired after over 30 years of service to our Nation. For his service. he was awarded the Legion of Merit Medal. His over three decades of service reflect not only personal bravery, but a deep commitment to the servicemembers he led and to each mission entrusted to him. In the face of uncertainty and hardship, Colonel McCloskey demonstrated the leadership and resolve that defines our armed forces. Even after his service in country, Colonel McCloskey never forgot the Vietnamese people that he had grown close to. He has returned to Vietnam several times, often at his own expense, to act as a diplomat, volunteer, and teacher. He volunteered as a teacher at Vietnamese universities, teaching International Marketing. He made frequent trips to the State Department to help guide our diplomats in their understanding of the Vietnamese people. Most significantly, he helped found an orphanage run by nuns, which he spends the majority of his visits repairing, building additions, and serving as a mentor to the orphans. Through these efforts, Colonel McCloskey transformed the legacy of the war into one of reconciliation, education, and hope. As we pay tribute to all of our Nation's servicemembers who bravely answered the call of duty in Vietnam, we thank Colonel McCloskey for his leadership, service, and enduring commitment to preserving the legacy of his fellow Vietnam Veterans. May we always remember the sacrifices of his generation, and may we remain forever grateful.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the graduates from the Bucks County Opportunity Council's Economic Self-Sufficiency Program. Since 1997, this program has helped families in our community build brighter, more stable futures through education and a path to lasting economic independence. Today, Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize this year's graduates: Thais Defalco, Haussine Guengous, Kelsi Klinger, Amanda Leary, Haleigh Olie-Muller, Tanya Quiles, Allina Ramirez, Jacklynn Ramsey, Ashley Reukauf, and Katlynn Whiteley. Mr. Speaker, as Bucks County's leading antipoverty organization, the BCOC has worked tirelessly to reduce poverty and to help our neighbors achieve true self-sufficiency. I thank the BCOC team for changing lives for the better and for strengthening our community. I congratulate the graduates. We celebrate all that you have achieved and all the many great things to come.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable group of graduates from the Bucks County Opportunity Council's Economic Self-Sufficiency program. Since 1997, this program has helped families in our community build brighter, more stable futures through education, skill building, and a path to lasting economic independence. Today, I am proud to recognize this year's graduates: Thais Defalco, Haussine Guengous, Kelsi Klinger, Amanda Leary, Haleigh Oliemuller, Tanya Quiles, Allina Ramirez, Jacklynn Ramsey, Ashley Reukauf, and Katlynn Whiteley. Madam Speaker, these graduates now join more than 420 families whose lives have been transformed through this program, families who have broken cycles of poverty that, in many cases, had stretched across generations. That kind of change does not happen by accident. It takes courage, discipline, perseverance, and supportive people willing to invest in their potential. That is exactly what my friends and longtime partners at the Bucks County Opportunity Council have delivered for decades. As Bucks County's leading anti-poverty organization, BCOC has worked tirelessly to reduce poverty, expand opportunity, and help our neighbors at home.

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Florence Kawoczka of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, a trusted partner, dear friend, and leader who has spent her life helping families in our community build not only homes but lasting foundations. For more than 14 years as CEO and executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County, Florence has understood that the work of building a home reaches far beyond the lumber, brick, and mortar. It is the work of building homes for people who are facing uncertainty, dignity where there has been struggle, and conditions in which a family can begin to imagine a different future. Madam Speaker, I have had the honor of working alongside Florence and witnessing those unforgettable moments when a family crosses the threshold of a home of their own, not simply receiving a set of keys, but entering a new chapter of possibility. Under Florence's leadership, Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County has partnered with more than 50 new homeowners, completed repairs on almost 400 homes, launched the Almost Home financial empowerment program, and pioneered a permanent workforce housing model that ensures that every home sold since 2022 remains permanently affordable. It is a legacy that will continue opening doors for Bucks County families for years to come. Madam Speaker, as Florence enters retirement this summer, I and our entire community offer our deepest gratitude for the life of service that she has lived, which has, without a doubt, made our community a better place. Madam Speaker, I congratulate and thank my friend, Florence, and extend best wishes to her as she enters this next chapter of her life. Recognizing Bucks County Opportunity Council

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to remember Bryan Rosica of Doylestown, a beloved educator, devoted husband and father, advocate, and truly good man. For more than 26 years, Bryan served the children and families of Buckingham Elementary School as a teacher and guidance counselor. Early in his tenure, he established the school's character education program and coined a phrase that captured both the spirit of the school and the spirit of his own life: Home of the Mighty Knights. It was more than a motto. It reflected what Bryan believed at his core: that very few things matter more than kindness and respect, and that character is formed not in grand gestures alone but in the small, daily choices that shape one's life. Bryan did not simply teach those values. He lived them. After being diagnosed with ALS in 2020, at just 49 years old, Bryan met that battle every day with extraordinary courage, grace, and his signature positive spirit. In the face of a cruel and unforgiving disease, he became not only a source of strength for his beloved wife, Lisa, their three children, and all who loved him, but a powerful advocate for others walking that very same path. Madam Speaker, as co-chair of the ALS Caucus, I have seen the heartbreak this disease leaves behind and the extraordinary strength of those who face it. Bryan was one of them. Working alongside ALS warriors in our community, we fought to advance the Right to Try Act so that those facing terminal illness would be met not with indifference, but with urgency, compassion, and every single possible avenue of hope. Bryan's life is a reminder of why that work matters and why it must continue. Bryan brought joy, inspiration, humor, and hope wherever he went. He will be remembered forever as a beloved pillar of our community. His legacy will live on in the family that he loved, the countless lives that he touched, and in the fight we will continue in his honor. Honoring Florence Kawoczka

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th birthday of Charles Jack Podhaizer, a remarkable constituent. Charlie was born on March 23, 1926, and has lived a life marked by service, family, and generosity. Charlie spent the early years of his life growing up in the Lower East Side of Manhattan as the youngest of 5 children. He spent his early years experiencing the melting pot of cultures from the immigrants arriving through Ellis Island and helped contribute to his family's wellbeing by selling items on the street whilst still finding time to enjoy basketball with his friends. When the time came, Charlie answered our Nation's call and served valiantly in the Second World War. He was a member of D Company, 232 Infantry Regiment of the 42nd Infantry ``Rainbow'' Division and fought during the Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes Forest. When he returned home, he married his high school sweetheart, Florence Weiss. Together, they moved to Sheepshead Bay in Brooklyn and had three children--Gary, Steven, and Todd. Florence unfortunately passed away in 1963, and in 1965, he was remarried to Betty Sheridan who expanded his family with two daughters--Raelyne and Sharon. In 1965, Charlie and his family became a part of our Bucks County community when they settled down in Yardley, Pennsylvania after years of Charlie commuting from Brooklyn to Eastern Pennsylvania each day for work. It was in Bucks County where Charlie started the Big C, a thriving department store in the Fairless Hills Shopping Center. Shortly thereafter, Charlie was able to expand his operations to two stores across the river in Trenton and Camden, New Jersey. With his business success, Charlie was able to become very active with local charities as well as his local police department, making sure to help provide for those less fortunate than him and support the community. Charlie is honored to have been named Bucks County Man of the Year among other honors and accolades received for his commitment to the community. It was later in his career when Charlie decided to step away from the Big C and start auctioneering, which allowed him to fully dedicate himself to this passion and connect with people at the various auctions he attended. He also started a wholesale business, where he traveled the United States to visit his customers. For every connection he made and place he visited, he was always noted for his integrity, passion, caring, honesty, and humor. As he reaches the age of 100 years old, Charlie is blessed to have 10 grandchildren--Jamie, Adam, David, Derek, and Falynn along with their spouses--as well as 9 great grandchildren--Sofie, Zoe, Kira, Jack, Cameron, Ellie, Brenna, Olivia, and Drew. Following the passing of his wife Betty, he found love once more in his life with Irene Hastings. He has cherished every moment spent with her and the rest of his family since he retired at the age of 75. Mr. Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in extending our heartfelt congratulations, sincere well-wishes, and God's blessings to Charles Jack Podhaizer on the celebration of his 100th birthday.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional individual from my district, Officer Michael Marks of the Middletown Township Police Department. I proudly commend him on his well-earned retirement, following 3 decades of committed service to the people of Bucks County. Officer Marks' exemplary career began in January of 1996, joining the Middletown Township Police Department after graduating from the Philadelphia Police Academy. He was primarily assigned to the Patrol Division, where he built a reputation as a hardworking, dependable, and highly respected officer. Officer Marks also served the department and his fellow officers in several other important roles. He helped to mentor and serve as an example for the next generation of Middletown Township police officers as a Field Training Officer. He selflessly stepped up when he was needed, serving as the officer in charge when a sergeant was unavailable, letting his sound decision making and professionalism shine. Additionally, he served as a UAS operator, firearms instructor, and a K-9 handler to police dogs Usher and Bach. Notably, Officer Marks received numerous commendations recognizing his stellar police work, thorough investigations, professionalism and commitment to his profession. He also made a number of notable arrests that were recognized throughout his time with the department. Beyond his assignments and accomplishments, Officer Marks is known throughout the department as a mentor, leader, and trusted colleague. He was always willing to take younger officers under his wing to ensure not only that they were doing a good job, but that they had someone to turn to for invaluable guidance and support. He offered them a voice of reason, his knowledge, and his approachability so that they could be the best officers they could. Outside of the department, Officer Marks is a well-respected member of the Middletown community, having raised his family there. After a long and honorable career in law enforcement, Officer Marks looks forward to a well-deserved retirement. Mr. Speaker, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Officer Michael Marks on his retirement and thank him for over 30 years of distinguished service to the citizens of Bucks County. His leadership and dedication will leave a lasting mark on the community he so faithfully served.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, this week we celebrate the 100th birthday of my friend, the indomitable Mae Krier of Levittown, Pennsylvania, one of our Nation's original Rosie the Riveters. As a young woman in World War II, Mae went on to work for the home front, helping build the aircraft that formed the backbone of America's airpower. For decades since she has been a tireless advocate to ensure that millions of Rosies receive the recognition they have long deserved. They riveted, welded, and labored in our factories, in our shipyards, in our farms, in our schools, and in our hospitals. Mr. Speaker, I was honored to lead the Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal Act and to present Mae Krier with that gold medal, the very first one, the highest civilian honor from Congress, on the shores of Normandy during the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion in tribute to all the women whose hands and hearts helped win this war. Mae is the embodiment of a trailblazer. Her contributions during the war and her tireless advocacy for women's empowerment and equality have laid the foundation for the America we cherish today and for the next generation of young women. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Rosie the Riveter Mae Krier a very happy 100th birthday and in honoring all the Rosies whose courage and patriotism changed America forever.

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of Levittown's own Gerard ``Jerry'' Galloway of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, my hometown. He passed away at the age of 75 after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer. Born in Philadelphia as the first of 10 children, Jerry's deep Catholic faith instilled by his parents, Jim and Jane, guided him throughout his life of service to his family, his community, and to his country. Drafted into the United States Army in 1968, Jerry served our Nation with quiet strength before earning a bachelor's degree and two master's degrees in education and psychology later in life. He devoted his career to serving individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities, working with students who were too often labeled as difficult or unreachable. He showed every child the attention and love that only he could give. A lifelong member of Queen of the Universe parish, my home parish in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Jerry brought Holy Communion and companionship to those who were unable to attend Mass. He and his family are the heart and soul behind the annual Bucks County St. Patrick's Day Parade. He will be remembered not only for his faith and service but for his ``king of cool'' spirit that made everyone he met feel known and feel loved. We extend our deepest sympathies to his beloved wife, Edna; his daughters, Meaghann, Bridget, and Maria; his grandchildren; and to all who knew and loved him. Jerry Galloway's legacy of faith, family, and service will forever be remembered with pride by the Galloway family and the entire Bucks County family. He will be dearly missed, and we love him. Celebrating 100th Birthday of Mae Krier

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues, Representatives Lee and Nadler, for bringing this very important piece of legislation to the floor today. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support, as a cosponsor, of the Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act, the HEAR Act. Mr. Speaker, during the Holocaust, the Nazi regime and its collaborators systematically looted hundreds of thousands of works of art and cultural treasures from Jewish families across Europe. These were not simply valuable objects. They were pieces of family history, family identity, and family heritage. For decades, many survivors and their heirs have fought simply for the chance to have their claims heard in court. The original HEAR Act, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in this Chamber in 2016, tried to ensure that these claims would be decided only on their merits, rather than being dismissed because of technical objections, such as the passage of time. Mr. Speaker, however, the courts did not follow Congress' intent on many issues, and new legal barriers have emerged that threaten to close or have closed the courthouse doors once again. This legislation expressly reverses the ability of defendants to use non-merit-based offenses, such as the Supreme Court's decision in Germany v. Phillipp, which held that Germany's expropriation of German Jews' property in the Holocaust was simply a ``domestic taking'' and not a violation of international law under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act. If not corrected by Congress, that decision would prevent Holocaust survivors and their heirs from recovering most of the art held by foreign governments and their museums. It would excuse the historical and moral culpability of Nazi Germany and its allies and collaborators for perpetrating the Holocaust. An affirmative vote today closes that huge loophole. Mr. Speaker, time is not on our side. Roughly 30,000 Holocaust survivors remain alive today in the United States of America, many now in their nineties, some of whom live in my district. They deserve to see in their lifetimes--and the world needs to hear--that in these times of rising anti-Semitism, Congress wishes to right these historical wrongs. Mr. Speaker, this bill does not guarantee outcomes. It simply ensures that claims are heard fairly and decided on their merits. Passing this legislation reaffirms our Nation's commitment to justice, historical truth, and the memory of those who suffered one of history's darkest crimes. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support the HEAR Act.