Vince Fong

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of my friend and colleague, Doug LaMalfa. Doug was a steadfast champion of rural California and for the issues that matter most to millions of Americans across the West, starting in the California legislature to the Halls of Congress. He fought for water storage and forest management. He fought for energy abundance. He fought for the farmer. He fought for common sense. I had the privilege of serving alongside him on the Committee for Transportation and Infrastructure and as a fellow member of the Western Caucus during his time as chairman. He would always greet me with a big smile by the nickname ``The Fongressman.'' Over the years, I was fortunate to be mentored by Doug. He was a great role model and friend. His guidance, leadership, and example left a lasting impact on me and on so many others who had the honor of working with him. Doug will be remembered for his deep love for his family, his faith and core principles, his unwavering dedication to his community, his humility, and his enduring legacy as a leader and lawmaker. I am personally grateful for his mentorship and know he will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. I certainly will vow to honor Doug's memory by continuing to champion the values that we both share that unite California's Central Valley to the rural communities like Doug's in northern California. I will continue fighting for rural priorities in Congress just as Doug did. Amanda and I are praying for his wife, Jill; his family and loved ones; and his staff during this difficult time. His absence leaves a void that will never truly be filled.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3109, the REFINER Act. This legislation is critical to unleashing our energy potential, lowering costs for hardworking families, and protecting our national security. U.S. refineries are vital to our energy ecosystem. They convert crude oil into fuels and countless products, ranging from shoes and plastics to cell phones, computers, solar panels, medical devices, and even space suits. They make gasoline and diesel for our cars and trucks, and they make jet fuel for our planes. Yet, over the past few years, our refining capacity has declined due to burdensome Federal and State policies. I know this bitter reality all too well in my home State of California. From 2020 to 2022, we lost more than 1 million barrels of production capacity per day, and refinery closures are projected to slash that capacity by 20 percent over the next year. Twenty percent of our refining capacity is going to disappear overnight. Since 2018, over 360 energy companies have left California. Oil production has dropped by 47 million barrels over the past 5 years, and foreign imports now account for over 60 percent of our crude supply in California. Californians pay nearly $5 a gallon. In fact, Californians are paying the highest gas and electricity prices in the Nation, thanks to Governor Gavin Newsom's radical-left failed energy policies. California has an affordability crisis that Governor Gavin Newsom created, but this crisis also goes well beyond the pump. As California fuel production declines, it jeopardizes our national security and undermines our military readiness, as multiple strategic military bases rely on California fuel. With threats from our foreign adversaries, like China, only continuing to grow, we cannot risk leaving our defenses weakened. The REFINER Act is common sense. It will help identify ways to expand refining capacity, protect our energy infrastructure, and strengthen our national security. Mr. Speaker, we must act now to restore American energy dominance, secure affordable fuel for families, and protect our Nation's military defense. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3109.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with my colleague, Representative David G. Valadao, to honor Joe Sill of Shafter, California, on his recognition as the 2025 Kern County Cattleman of the Year. Born in 1946 to Frank and Claire Clerou Sill, Joe was raised in a family whose roots run deep in Kern County agriculture. From an early age, he worked alongside his brothers, Mike and Tim, his sister, Trish, and many cousins in the family's potato shed in Shafter, where his parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and lifelong respect for honest labor. By age 14, Joe was driving feed trucks and caring for cattle at the Sill Properties feedlot, an experience that would spark his enduring passion for the cattle industry. Joe graduated from Games Memorial High School in 1965, then attended the New Mexico Military Institute, where he played football and ran track before continuing his studies at Fresno State University. There, he joined the rodeo team and Kappa Sigma fraternity, graduating in 1970 with a degree in Agricultural Business Management. After college, Joe spent time working in Hawaii and later as a cowboy for Camp and Mebane Cattle Company, balancing hard work with his love of the outdoors. Joe's spirit of adventure took him abroad to Australia in 1971, where he helped rancher Dick Stone establish his first feedlot and worked in the sheep and horse industries. Upon returning home to Kern County, Joe rejoined Sill Properties, managing cattle ranches in the Cuyama Valley in partnership with his future father-in-law, Jean Garcin. He also gained valuable experience at O.K. Meat Packing Company in Los Angeles, learning the packing and purchasing sides of the livestock business. In 1979, Joe married the love of his life, Vicki Garcin, and together they made their home in Shafter, raising three children: Joseph, Danielle, and Dominic. As manager of the Sill Properties feedlot and several cattle ranches, Joe oversaw operations across California, Oregon, Nevada, and Arizona, ensuring the continued success of a family legacy built over generations. After retiring from Sill Properties in 2018, Joe remained active in the family's enterprises by serving on numerous boards. He and Vicki also founded J & V Sill Cattle Company with their three children, a venture that has become Joe's greatest joy. Today, he continues to share his deep knowledge and love of the ranching lifestyle with his eight grandchildren, who represent the next generation of Kern County cattlemen and women. Mr. Speaker, Representative Valadao and I, ask our colleagues to join us in congratulating Joe Sill on being named the 2025 Kern County Cattleman of the Year, and in celebrating his lasting contributions to Kern County's proud agricultural heritage.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Walter Grainger, a lifelong resident of Bakersfield, California, who passed away on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the age of 99. In May 1944, just weeks after graduating from Kern County Union High School, later renamed Bakersfield High School, Walter enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served honorably during World War II. He and his four brothers together wore our Nation's uniform in defense of freedom. After the conclusion of his military service, Walter dedicated his life to education and community. He taught at Bakersfield High School, Shafter High School, and North High School, where he chaired the Industrial Arts Department, before later working as a safety consultant for the school district. Beyond the classroom, Walter was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and faithful member of First United Methodist Church. Even in his nineties, Walter continued to serve. He was instrumental in the design and construction of the Kern County World War II Veterans Memorial at Jastro Park. His vision and leadership helped shape one of the most beautiful veterans memorials in the West. Today, that memorial stands as a lasting tribute to all who served, including Walter and his brothers, whose names are engraved in granite for generations to see. Walter was a deeply respected member of the community, and when he spoke, people listened. He lived his life with humility, service, and quiet strength. His legacy is found not only in the memorial he helped build, but in the family he loved, the students he taught, and the community he served. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the remarkable life of Walter Grainger. May his memory serve as an inspiration to all of us, and may his family take comfort in knowing the profound and enduring impact he had on Bakersfield, Kern County, and our Nation.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague Congressman David Valadao to honor Jenny Holtermann, a fourth- generation California farmer, water advocate, and strong communicator who has worked tirelessly to preserve family farming, elevate women's voices in agriculture, and strengthen the connection between growers and consumers. As she steps down as President of the Kern County Farm Bureau, we have no doubt her leadership and service will continue to influence the Central Valley and its farming community. Jenny was born and raised on her family's almond and walnut farm in Chico, California. She earned a degree in Agricultural Business Marketing with a minor in Fruit Science from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where she met her husband, Tim. After graduation, they moved to the Central Valley to continue their families' farming legacies. Since marrying in 2010, Jenny and Tim have farmed almonds in Wasco and Shafter, instilling the values of hard work, stewardship, and love of the land in their children. Before her advocacy work, Jenny spent five years in agricultural sales and later became a freelance writer, using her platform to connect farmers with consumers. Known as ``Almond Girl Jenny,'' she has shared stories as a blogger, social media content creator, and freelance writer, strengthening the public connection to agriculture. Jenny's leadership began early when she helped revitalize the Kern Young Farmers & Ranchers in 2011, serving as Chair for two years, and later as California YF&R State Chair in 2018. She has been a Kern County Farm Bureau Board member since 2011, serving in multiple leadership roles, and has represented Kern and Kings counties on the California Farm Bureau Board since 2018. Beyond Farm Bureau, Jenny's service extends to the Almond Board of California Leadership Program, the Wasco Planning Commission, and California Women for Agriculture. She also brings a wealth of knowledge in water management and currently serves as Executive Director for multiple water agencies. In 2020, Jenny and Tim launched a direct-to-consumer almond business, sharing their family farm and farm-fresh almonds with households across the country while continuing daily farm life with their young family. Mr. Speaker, Congressman David Valadao and I invite our colleagues to join us in recognizing Jenny Holtermann for her dedication to family farming, leadership in agriculture, and service to her community, which have left a lasting mark on Kern County and the broader agricultural industry. Her years of service and commitment to agriculture have strengthened the Farm Bureau and inspired meaningful progress throughout the agricultural community. We wish her continued success as she moves forward from her role at the Kern County Farm Bureau.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Madam Chair, I rise today in support of my amendments 390, 737, and 745, which would deliver vital resources to the military installations of California's 20th Congressional District, their personnel, and surrounding communities. These critical provisions would ensure our servicemembers and their civilian counterparts have the resources they need for success. Specifically, my amendments will improve healthcare access for Navy personnel at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, strengthen the readiness of the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, and the Air Force Test Center, including Edwards Air Force Base. At China Lake, the local community hospital, which serves both the Ridgecrest community and base personnel, is facing significant challenges. My first amendment would direct the Department of Defense to assess the healthcare resources available to our Navy personnel at the base and provide recommendations to improve them. My second amendment focuses on strengthening the largest component of China Lake, the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division. It would direct the Secretary of the Navy to review the challenges NAWCWD is facing and report back to Congress on how they are working to address them. My third amendment supports Edwards Air Force Base by extending an existing provision for several more years, helping to further strengthen the base's vital mission. With new technology like the B-21, our Nation's newest bomber, it is critical Edwards Air Force Base has the tools to test these modern technologies so they can be utilized by our warfighters. I am proud of the incredible men and women, both civilian and military, who provide our military with the best technology to keep our Nation safe. I urge my colleagues to support these amendments which would ensure China Lake and Edwards Air Force Base have the resources they need to continue their critical work of research, development, testing, and evaluation of our latest military technology.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and celebrate the exceptional interns who have devoted their summer to serving the people of California's 20th Congressional District. From my offices in Washington, D.C., and Bakersfield, California these students have exhibited maturity well beyond their years, offering their time, talents, and energy to support my work in meaningful ways. Their contributions have been a powerful reminder of the potential and promise embodied by the next generation. At a time when many young Americans are contemplating their role in civic life, these interns chose to engage directly with purpose and passion. As all the summer Congressional internships come to a close, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Nikhil Bawa for his contributions to my Washington, D.C. office. His hard work has been instrumental to my team's efforts, and I am confident that the experiences and lessons he has gained will guide him toward continued success in his future endeavors in public service. I look forward to seeing where his path leads, and I hope that path includes a continued dedication to serving others.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr Speaker, I rise today to commend and celebrate the exceptional interns who have devoted their summer to serving the people of California's 20th Congressional District. From my offices in Washington, D.C., and Bakersfield, California, these students have exhibited maturity well beyond their years, offering their time, talents, and energy to support my work in meaningful ways. Then contributions have been a powerful reminder of the potential and promise embodied by the next generation. At a time when many young Americans are contemplating their role in civic life, these interns chose to engage directly with purpose and passion. As their summer internships come to a close, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Daniel Bazmi, Jake Dowell, Michael Edmonston, and Rafael Barrientos Posada for their contributions to my Washington, D.C., office, and to Penelope Campbell for her service in my Bakersfield, California office. Their hard work has been instrumental to my team's efforts, and I am confident that the experiences and lessons they've gained will guide them toward continued success in their future endeavors in public service. I look forward to seeing where their paths lead, and I hope those paths include a continued dedication to serving others.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of Joseph H. ``Joe'' Campbell, a respected farmer and pioneer in California's table grape industry, who passed away on July 10, 2025, at the age of 81. Joe Campbell was part of a generation that helped shape the modern agricultural landscape of the Central Valley. After graduating from Delano High School in 1960 and serving in the U.S. Army, Joe began farming in 1969. He first grew cotton and wheat, then later moved into almonds and, ultimately, table grapes. In 1986, he leased his first vineyard, setting the course for what would become a transformative career in California agriculture. Through his leadership roles at Delano Farms and Four Star Fruit, Joe helped grow the combined operation into one of the largest table grape producers in the state. His business decisions often required risk, but they were grounded in instinct, common sense, and a deep familiarity with the communities in which he operated. He played a defining role in shaping California's table grape industry--a legacy that endures. While Joe's work ethic and vision helped drive the success of a major agricultural enterprise, he remained grounded in his roots and true to the values that shaped him. He was known for his humility, consistency, and dedication to his family above all else. He shared a long and loving marriage with his wife, Jana, and raised three sons who continue his legacy in agriculture. Joe Campbell's story is a reminder of the strength and promise of California's farming families. His contributions helped define an industry, and his example will continue to influence the generations that follow. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Joseph H. Campbell. He was a farmer, a businessman, and a man whose life's work and pursuit of the American dream left a lasting mark on the Central Valley and California agriculture.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Joel Nelsen, who passed away on July 1, 2025, at the age of 78. For nearly four decades, he served as President of California Citrus Mutual, where he became a leading voice for citrus growers in California and throughout the Nation. From 1982 to 2019, Mr. Nelsen led California Citrus Mutual through significant challenges to and changes in the agricultural landscape. He worked to ensure citrus growers were represented in key policy decisions related to water, trade, pest management, regulation, and beyond. His efforts helped strengthen the industry and protect the long-term viability of farming in the Central Valley. Throughout his career, Joel built relationships across the agricultural community, in Sacramento, and in Washington, D.C. He believed in the future of Central Valley agriculture and worked to support family farms and the people who rely on them. He also took time to mentor others in the industry and help prepare the next generation of advocates and leaders. Joel Nelsen will be remembered for his deep knowledge of the Citrus industry, his decades of service, and his unwavering commitment to the growers he represented. I have no doubt that his legacy will last generations. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Joel Nelsen for his lifelong dedication to California agriculture and the citrus industry.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of John C. Harris, a visionary agriculturalist, respected horseman, successful businessman, and generous philanthropist, who passed away on July 2, 2025, at the age of 81. A lifelong resident of Fresno County, Mr. Harris was born into a farming family and embodied the spirit of the San Joaquin Valley. After graduating from the University of California, Davis, in 1965 and serving his country as a U.S. Army officer, Mr. Harris returned to the Central Valley to carry on and expand his family's agricultural legacy. As the driving force behind Harris Farms, he transformed the business into one of California's most prominent agricultural operations. Under his leadership, Harris Ranch Beef Company became a nationally respected name in food production, known for quality and innovation. Mr. Harris was equally influential in the world of thoroughbred horse racing. Over five decades, he bred and raced champions, including California Chrome, the winner of the 2014 Kentucky Derby and the 2014 Preakness Stakes. As chairman of the California Horse Racing Board and a board member of the Jockey Club and the Breeders' Cup, he was a pillar of integrity and advocacy in the sport. His green-and-white silks became a fixture in California's winner's circles, and his leadership helped shape the industry for future generations. Beyond his impact as a businessman and sportsman, John Harris was a servant of his community. He supported educational institutions throughout the Central Valley such as Fresno State, UC Davis, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Saint Agnes Medical Center. His philanthropic work spanned education, healthcare, and vocational training, including supporting a program at Pleasant Valley State Prison that pairs inmates with horses. Over the years, Mr. Harris was honored with numerous accolades, including the Livestock Man of the Year Award, the Leon S. Peters Award, and induction into the Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame. However, he was known not only for his accomplishments, but for his humility and his steadfast dedication to his home. He believed deeply in investing in people, mentoring young agricultural leaders, and uplifting those around him through quiet acts of kindness. He is survived by his beloved wife, Cookie. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in remembering John C. Harris--a pioneer whose legacy will continue to shape California agriculture, equine sport, and civic life for generations to come.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the outstanding interns who have devoted their summer to serving the people of California's 20th District. From my offices in Washington, D.C., and Bakersfield, these students have demonstrated maturity beyond their years, contributing their time, intellect, and drive to support our work in meaningful ways. They brought fresh insight, a willingness to learn, and an admirable commitment to public service. Their presence has been a welcome reminder of the promise and potential of the next generation. At a time when many young Americans are navigating questions about their role in civic life, these interns chose to engage directly with purpose and passion. As their summer internships come to a close, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Isaac Chipres, Luke Fernandes, and Margaret Woolf for their contributions to my Washington, D.C., office and to Gianna Gatson for her service in my Bakersfield, California office. Their hard work has been instrumental to my team's efforts, and I trust that the skills and educational experiences they have gained will guide them toward continued success in their future endeavors in public service. I look forward to seeing where their paths lead, and I hope those paths include a continued dedication to serving others.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Robert ``Bob'' Lechtreck, Sr., a decorated Navy veteran of World War II and the fifth Fire Chief of Kern County. Bob passed away recently, just months after celebrating his 100th birthday. His remarkable life reflects a century of service and deep devotion to both his country and his community. Born on April 2, 1925, Bob Lechtreck joined the U.S. Navy at the age of 17. He served in the Pacific Theater during World War II and saw combat in some of the most pivotal battles of the war, including the Battle of Okinawa. Just three days before his death, we marked the 80th anniversary of that battle, which serves as a reminder of the high cost of freedom and the courage of those like Bob who helped secure it. His ship later guarded Tokyo Bay during the signing of Japan's formal surrender, helping to usher in the end of the war. In 1948, Bob returned home and joined the Kern County Fire Department. Over the course of a 30-year career, he rose through the ranks to become the department's fifth fire chief. Having worked alongside Kern County's very first fire chief, Harold Boway, he was a bridge between generations and remains the only known person to have driven the department's first fire engine, a 1929 Moreland, on active calls. In his later years, Bob remained an active and honored member of the community. He was part of the very first Kern County Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he visited the World War II Memorial and the U.S. Capitol in recognition of his service. On his 100th birthday, he was celebrated by friends, neighbors, veterans, and members of the Kern County Fire Department, who gave their former chief a ceremonial ride in a working fire engine--a fitting tribute for a life of courage and leadership. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Bob Lechtreck, Sr., who was a patriot and a pillar of Kern County. His memory will endure in the hearts of those he inspired and the institutions he helped build.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of National Dairy Month and to honor the hardworking dairy farmers of California, our Nation's leading dairy producer. In my district, which encompasses Tulare, Fresno, Kings, and Kern Counties, we are proud to be the epicenter of dairy production. Tulare County alone holds the title of the largest dairy-producing county in America. It is home to 500,000 dairy cows, 222 dairies, and some of the largest dairy-processing plants. Most of these dairies are family-owned enterprises. I myself personally know the effort it takes to operate these family businesses. I am proud of the legacy of my own family members who are in the dairy industry and who brought their farms to the Central Valley. Even our region's large-scale operations remain rooted in family traditions, reflecting the dedication and perseverance of our agricultural communities. Together, these dairies contribute one-fifth of our Nation's milk supply, producing everything from butter to ice cream, nourishing families and bringing joy to countless households across America. To our dairy farmers, I thank them for their tireless efforts to feed our Nation. Their work sustains us, and it is an honor to stand in their corner.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of William ``Bill'' Deaver, a dedicated public servant, journalist, veteran, and lifelong champion of East Kern County. Bill passed away on May 30, 2025, at the age of 89, still engaged in the political and civic life of the region he called home for more than seven decades. Bill moved to Mojave, California in 1948. While his career and service took him to other places such as Northern California, Washington, D.C., and beyond, his heart never left the desert. He returned to Mojave time and again, determined to help the community grow and thrive. With a deep love for East Kern County, he spent decades working to improve local institutions for all residents to enjoy. Bill was a veteran of both the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force Reserve. He brought that same spirit of service to civilian life, including a distinguished tenure in the Reagan administration. He later served in the administration of President George H.W. Bush, worked for two Members of Congress and a California State Assemblyman, and held a seat on the California Fair Political Practices Commission. In Mojave, he and his wife Billye modernized the Mojave Desert News, cementing its role as a trusted local institution. He also served as Constable of Mojave, President of the Mojave Chamber of Commerce, and was a longtime member of the Kern Press Club. Throughout his life, Bill helped shape the institutions that define Mojave. He was a founding member of the East Kern Economic Alliance, the East Kern Educational Resource Network, and the Mojave Transportation Museum. He played a vital role in protecting Edwards Air Force Base from closure during multiple rounds of base realignment, and as one of the original organizers of the East Kern Medical Center, he helped ensure access to healthcare for area residents. Most recently, Bill served from 2014 to 2022 on the Board of Directors of the Mojave Air and Space Port, where he worked to preserve Mojave's role as a hub of aerospace innovation and exploration. Bill later moved to Tehachapi to be closer to his sister, Susan Wiggins, and her family. However, his love for the desert and his commitment to the people of East Kern County never wavered. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Bill Deaver, whose life was marked by tireless service and an unwavering devotion to community. East Kern and our Nation as a whole are stronger because of his contributions, and I have no doubt that his memory will continue to inspire future generations.

Mr. FONG

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

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1223) to require a plan to improve the cybersecurity and telecommunications of the U.S. Academic Research Fleet, and for other purposes.

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 1223, the bill now under consideration.

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 1223, the Accelerating Networking, Cyberinfrastructure, and Hardware for Oceanic Research Act, also known as the ANCHOR Act. I urge my colleagues to support this bill because it addresses a critical and urgent need: safeguarding the integrity of our Nation's academic research fleet and ensuring that the valuable data collected at sea remains secure from emerging threats. This is about protecting the future of American science, innovation, and national security. Our research fleet is a cornerstone of America's scientific advancement. Since the 1960s, these vessels have supported federally sponsored missions that impact everything from human health and energy development to ocean hazards and national security. They are laboratories at sea, collecting data that fuels critical decisionmaking here on land. However, these ships face modern challenges. Right now, they lack the secure cyberinfrastructure needed to protect sensitive data and communicate reliably across global networks. That leaves them vulnerable to cyber threats from foreign adversaries, which have been on the rise and will continue to evolve with emerging technology. Data is the heartbeat of scientific progress. It informs policy. It drives discovery. It strengthens our ability to respond to crises. We need it to compete and win on the world stage. We must ensure that this data is protected, that our researchers have the tools they need, and that the outcomes of their work remain in secure hands. The ANCHOR Act directs the National Science Foundation to create a comprehensive plan to upgrade the cybersecurity and communication systems on these vessels to add another layer of protection where it is desperately needed. Mr. Speaker, I thank my cosponsor, Representative Haley Stevens, for supporting our bipartisan effort to protect our Nation's scientific edge and security. Today, let's take a critical step to safeguard our research fleet, protect our data, and secure the future of American innovation by voting in support of the ANCHOR Act. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Babin), the chair of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee.

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Babin) control the remainder of my time.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Hmong American community and commemorate May 14, 2025, as Hmong American Day, marking 50 years since the first Hmong families began their journey to the United States following the fall of Long Cheng in 1975. On this day, we recognize the legacy of service, sacrifice, and strength that defines the Hmong American experience. From 1961 to 1975, more than 40,000 Hmong men and boys--many under the age of 18--were recruited by the Central Intelligence Agency to fight in the Secret War in Laos, a critical but often overlooked chapter of the Vietnam War. Fighting alongside American forces, Hmong soldiers risked everything to defend freedom and combat the spread of communism in Southeast Asia. Following the end of the war, they and their families faced persecution and displacement, forcing thousands to flee Laos. On May 14, 1975, the final airlift evacuated Hmong soldiers and their families from Laos to refugee camps in Thailand. From there, many resettled in the United States, including in California's Central Valley, where they rebuilt their lives with determination and hope. Today, communities like Clovis, Fresno, and Sacramento are home to some of the largest and most vibrant Hmong populations in the country. These families have contributed to the fabric of American society in countless ways by serving as educators, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, public servants, and community leaders. We especially honor the Hmong veterans and their families, whose courage and loyalty to the United States must never be forgotten. Their stories remind us of the price of freedom and the enduring strength of the human spirit. I commend the County of Fresno, the City of Clovis, and other local governments for formally recognizing Hmong American Day and paying tribute to the history, culture, and contributions of the Hmong people. I join them in encouraging all Americans to learn more about this rich legacy and to celebrate the extraordinary impact of Hmong Americans on our communities and our country.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding group of interns who have supported the work of the 20th District of California this spring. These bright and driven young people--serving in my Washington, D.C. office and my Bakersfield, California office-- have brought a spirit of dedication and enthusiasm that enriched our team. At a time when many young Americans are questioning the role of public service, their eagerness to engage with the federal government on behalf of their communities offers real encouragement for the future of our Nation. With their time in Congress reaching its close, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Jonathan Clark, Justin Gibbins, and Jack Putrino for their work in my Washington, D.C. office, and Ava Dykes for her service in my Bakersfield, California office. Their hard work and dedication have been invaluable, and I hope that the experiences gained here will serve them well in their future endeavors.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a cherished institution in my district, Smith's Bakeries, located in Bakersfield, California. Since 1945, Smith's has been more than just a bakery. It has been a pillar of joy in our community. Founded by Howard Smith and Roy Balmain, the goal was simple: to provide the best baked goods possible. As we celebrate Small Business Week, Smith's Bakeries exemplifies how local businesses can thrive while staying deeply connected to their customers. A key part of their success is Jim Balmain, son of cofounder Roy, who, along with his wife, Jacque, took over in 1985, ensuring the bakery's continued legacy. Celebrating 80 years of business, Smith's has been a symbol of excellence and community spirit, known for their iconic treats, like the famous happy face cookie. As Jim Balmain once said: ``If you care and you try to do things right, people will appreciate it,'' and that is exactly what Smith's has done for decades. Here is to many more years of sweet memories and continued success for one of the most popular small businesses in California's 20th District.

Mr. FONG

Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and heroic service of Mr. Victor Killingsworth of Taft, California. Victor, a veteran of World War II, served our country in the U.S. Navy for over three years and made incredible contributions to the Taft community. Victor passed away on April 5, 2025, at the age of 104. Victor was born on November 11, 1921, in Coalinga, California, to Francis and Evelena Killingsworth. Shortly thereafter, Francis and Evelena would move to Taft, California, which would become Victor's home for over 90 years. After graduating from Taft High School and later Taft College, Victor enrolled in the University of California, Berkley. While studying there, the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred, causing the United States to formally enter World War II. Eager to defend his country, Victor enlisted in the U.S. Navy at a time when Japanese and German naval attacks had stretched American naval forces precariously thin. Victor sought to be a more valuable asset to the Navy and enrolled in Midshipman School at Columbia University on December 7, 1942. Industrious American shipbuilders soon remedied the ship shortage with remarkable speed, enabling Victor to later serve in the campaigns against Imperial Japan in the Pacific Ocean. During his naval training, while at Joint Expeditionary Base--Little Creek, Victor met his future wife Margaret (Peggy) Sexton who would keep his morale high with frequent devoted letters throughout the war. Upon completion of Midshipman School, Victor received orders to be assigned to the USS Sumter, a troop transport ship, carrying elements of the 4th Marine Division. Assigned to a U.S. Navy Amphibious Squad, Victor worked to transport ``Carlson's Raiders'' to Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands in February 1944. He would transport Marines onto the six-square mile atoll throughout a fierce four-day battle as part of the Gilbert and Marshall Islands Campaign. In the pouring rain and amidst choppy surf, Victor towed Marine landing forces behind him to the beach like ``ducklings'' as he recalled. Victor later noted that his audaciousness in landing so close to enemy positions at night seemed to have tricked the Japanese defenders into thinking his boat was one of theirs. Victor next took part in the operation to capture the island of Saipan. While on the island, Victor drove too far into enemy lines where he witnessed tremendous human suffering on the island. In one location in Saipan, he would successfully urge numerous Japanese soldiers to lay down their arms by promising the men they would be treated with civility. Adopting similar de-escalation strategies with civilians he encountered, Victor's compassion saved many from perishing. Upon completion of U.S. operations in Saipan in late July 1944, Victor transported--in just one day--some 8,000 Marines in 75 boatloads across three miles of open ocean to secure the Japanese-held island of Tinian in the Northern Mariana Islands. This vital island would later provide the two airfields necessary for American bombers to quickly reach Japan and bring about the culmination of World War II. Later in 1944, Victor served as a Communications Officer aboard the USS Artemis. While onboard at the onset of the heroic Battle of Iwo Jima in February 1945, the USS Artemis sustained withering fire from Japanese coastal artillery and was forced to withdraw to Guam. This was Victor's final combat of World War II, as the war would end seven months later on September 2, 1945. Promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, Victor was honorably discharged, married Peggy, and returned to his hometown of Taft. The couple ran Taft Sporting Goods for 37 years while raising their three daughters--Barbara, Janet, and Patty. Victor was passionate about supporting his community, helping launch Westside Little League and Westside Jr. Football. Later in life, Victor wrote a book about his service titled ``The Gator Navy,'' where he detailed stories of his training and service. Cementing his local legacy, Victor conceived of the idea to construct the iconic Oil Worker Monument in Taft, the largest bronze statue west of the Mississippi River, to mark the centennial anniversary of the city. Whether it was his service to our country or our community, Victor has certainly left a lasting impact on countless individuals. The Taft community remains fortunate and grateful to have had such a hero. Victor is survived by his daughters: Patty Killingsworth Gray, Barbara Killingsworth, and Janet Killingsworth Sandoval; his sons-in- law: Everett Gray and Miguel Sandoval; five grandchildren: Christian Gray, Ashley Gray, John Gray, Sarah Sandoval, and Andrew Sandoval; and eight great-grandchildren: Samantha Gray, Andrew Gray, Piper Gray, Foster Gray, Lex Gray, Charlotte Sandoval, Victoria Sandoval, and Oliver Sandoval. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in remembering Victor Killingsworth, and his legacy of invaluable service to both our country and his community.