Kay Granger

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 587, due to a previously scheduled, important event in my district with my constitutents that could not be rescheduled, I was not present for this vote. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. I thank the gentleman from Florida for yielding me time. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of an outstanding public servant, Bill Young. It is a true honor to have been able to know a man like Chairman Young and to be able to call him both a friend and a role model for all of us. There is no one who was more respected, decent, gracious, dedicated and humble. Everyone who crossed his path is richer for the experience. That is evident through the hundreds of people who attended his memorial service last week. His service was attended by over 30 Members of Congress. During a time of such partisanship, the respect for Chairman Young was illustrated through the attendance from both sides of the aisle, including leadership. The respect the military has for his lifelong advocacy for our national security and for our servicemembers was evident through the attendance and heartfelt eulogies of former Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England and the Commandant of the Marine Corps, General James Amos. It was clear that the Department of Defense depended on him. Immediately before the service began, General Amos bestowed a very rare and appropriate honor by naming Chairman Young an honorary marine. I will never forget when I was first appointed to the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. As one of the first women ever to serve on the subcommittee, I wasn't sure how I would be treated, but Bill immediately brought me in and treated me with respect and kindness, as he did to everyone. Gender didn't matter to him; he only cared about my commitment to the military and to our Nation. When John Wooden wrote ``the true test of a man's character is what he does when no one is watching,'' he clearly was talking about Chairman Young. Over the years, we have all heard many, many stories about the personal interest and assistance that he and Beverly provided for our wounded soldiers, but we never heard these stories from him. He never talked about what he did. He was motivated by doing what was right for someone else's health and well-being. When Marine Lance Corporal Josh Callihan spoke at the memorial service, it was the first time that most of us had ever heard about the extraordinary efforts the Chairman and Beverly took to help this wounded warrior. Lance Corporal Callihan had been shot in the back and sustained significant damage to his spinal cord. With no family support system, he was in Bethesda injured both physically and emotionally. Then he met Bill and Beverly Young, and his life changed forever. They stepped in and became his family, helping him to recover. Today, Josh calls the Chairman and Beverly ``mom'' and ``dad.'' After many years of hard work, he is now married and expecting his first child. According to Josh, none of this would be possible without Bill Young. As I was thinking about what I wanted to say about Chairman Young, I realized it was impossible to do justice to such an extraordinary man merely through words. He was truly one of a kind. The best way we can honor this man is to redouble our efforts to our national security and to the treatment of our servicemembers and their families. I ask that all of my colleagues join me to make sure that we carry on his legacy. In closing, I want to let Beverly, their children, his friends and his staff, who were part of his family, know that you all remain in our thoughts and our prayers.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for allowing me to speak. Thank you for the hard work you've put into the bills in our committee. I rise in support of the continuing resolution to keep the Federal Government operating through December 15. We hope this resolution will give the Congress and the White House time to come together on a comprehensive budget agreement. I chair the State, Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee, and funding the bill directly supports U.S. national security. The world has never been a more dangerous place, and to cut back our diplomatic activities at this time would be irresponsible. Failure to get a CR enacted would impact key posts, including Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iraq. This would mean dramatically reduced influence in key regions like the Middle East and Asia. Military assistance to our allies, such as Israel, could be affected if payments are not made as planned, potentially jeopardizing the readiness of our partners. This could also impact the U.S. jobs of the men and women producing American-made equipment. One year ago, terrorists attacked and killed Americans in Benghazi. Failure to pass this CR could delay implementation of the Benghazi Accountability Review Board recommendations and jeopardize the safety of our diplomats who continue to serve abroad. It's important that we pass this CR today and that the Senate consider it as quickly as possible. It is a basic function and the responsibility of Congress to keep the government open and working for the people who elected us. This bill simply does that. I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote ``yes.''

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Madam Chair, situations in Egypt have been problematic, and we're all dealing with that and trying to come to terms. But I want to remind Members that one reason we have a relationship with Egypt is the Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty. We helped forge peace between Egypt and Israel, a peace that has held for over 30 years. Our military-to-military relationship has been a key component to keeping that peace. Since the signing of the treaty, the Egyptian military has been a reliable partner and ally. Throughout all the changes and turmoil, the Egyptian military has upheld our security arrangements, including the peace treaty. They've also maintained priority access for U.S. ships through the Suez Canal and allowed U.S. military planes to use their airspace. We cannot underestimate the importance of this. Furthermore, since July 3, the Egyptian military has successfully closed nearly 80 percent of the tunnels used to smuggle goods and arms into the Gaza Strip. This is an important part of our partnership and how we've worked together. The relationship between the United States and Egypt has never been more critical than it is now. This amendment could jeopardize our ability to help Egypt and Israel secure the Sinai if the intent were other than it has been explained just a few minutes ago. It could harm our efforts to secure the Libyan border with Egypt, which is used to smuggle weapons to be used against Israel. It's vital to the United States national security that we maintain our long-standing relationship with the Egyptian military. I'm not going to oppose this amendment as long as the intent is not to interfere with this 30-year partnership and relationship. U.S. and Israeli security are simply too important to put at risk. I appreciate the time and the effort.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 55 I missed the vote due to an illness. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, we're here tonight to honor our friend and colleague, Sam Johnson, a man of service, a man of faith, and a man of tremendous courage. Sam was released from captivity 40 years ago as part of Operation Homecoming. It was a plan to bring home POWs. As part of the Paris Peace Accords of 1973, 591 POWs were brought home as part of that operation, and our dear friend, Sam, was one of those. Sometimes there are people that do great things but very few people know about it, people in their family or a few close friends. Sam Johnson's life has not been that way because it's been recognized because his achievements are so outstanding and he's been such a leader. So I think those recognitions deserve to be repeated tonight: two Silver Stars, two Legions of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, a Bronze Star with Valor, two Purple Hearts, four Air Medals, three Outstanding Unit Awards; and the Congressional Medal of Honor Society gave Johnson their highest civilian accolade, the National Patriot Award. Sam, it's such an honor for all of us to serve in this House with you, be a friend of yours and learn from you. Thank you for all your service.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to rise today to honor a true American hero, who is Chris Kyle, a retired Navy SEAL chief petty officer who was killed in Glen Rose, Texas, on February 2. Chris Kyle heroically defended his country through four tours of duty in Iraq, where he participated in major battles throughout the country. He was the single deadliest sniper in the history of the United States military. Chief Kyle was shot twice in the fighting and was in six separate IED explosions. However, he never received the Purple Heart because he didn't want to be separated from his unit while the paperwork was being processed. Chris Kyle fought for his country and saved the lives of many of his fellow Americans, but his accomplishments extended far beyond the battlefield. After 10 years of service as a SEAL, Chris retired from the Navy to focus on his family. He continued to train military personnel and security staff, and he wrote a book documenting his time in combat, which one of the Members talked about. Rather than keep the proceeds from the sale of the book, he donated the money to the families of two fellow SEAL members who had fallen in battle. On February 2, Chris and his friend Chad Littlefield were tragically killed by a veteran they had sought to help. This act of violence may have taken Mr. Kyle's life, but it doesn't erase the powerful legacy he leaves behind. Mr. Kyle is survived by his wife and two young children. He lives on through his family, through the lives he saved through his heroism in combat, and through the veterans he helped. He continues to be a source of inspiration to all who know his story. On February 11, more than 7,000 people from around the country gathered in Cowboy Stadium for Chris Kyle's memorial service. Hundreds more braved bad weather to line roads and highways to honor Chris by watching his funeral procession on the way to the Texas State Cemetery. It was a fitting tribute to a man who touched the lives of so many and who will continue to do so even after his death. This country owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to Chris Kyle for his selfless service to his country, both on and off the battlefield. His heroism and the heroism of all his fellow veterans will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, his children, his family and friends, and especially with his teammates.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. Wayne Nichols of Fort Worth, Texas for winning the ``Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award'' from Humanities Texas. Each year, Humanities Texas selects eleven teachers who have demonstrated outstanding skill and dedication in the teaching of the humanities to Texas students. The winning teachers and their schools receive a generous grant to purchase materials to enhance humanities education. Mr. Nichols teaches a variety of History, Geography and Culture classes for grades six through eight at the Middle Level Learning Center in Fort Worth, Texas, and was recognized for his ability to instill a love of learning in his students through innovative and interactive teaching methods. Because of Mr. Nichols work, thousands of students have been given a new appreciation of the vital subjects that he teaches and the importance of those subjects in their own lives. I offer my hearty congratulations to Mr. Nichols for this well- deserved award, and I am proud to have such an outstanding educator in my district.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Congregation Ahavath Sholom for its 120 years of dedication to the Fort Worth community. Congregation Ahavath Sholom was established in1892, and is the oldest Jewish congregation in Fort Worth, Texas. Led by Rabbi Andrew Bloom and Cantor Shoshana Abrams, this Conservative Congregation holds a deep commitment to Tikkun Olam, repairing of the world. Through inter-faith programs and outreach, Congregation Ahavath Sholom acts upon this commitment. For many years the congregation has collected food for the Tarrant County Food Bank on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar. This year, Congregation Ahavath Sholom is holding its 2nd Annual Community-wide Chanukah Candle Lighting in which the City of Fort Worth has joined as an official sponsor. Mayor Betsy Price and I will serve as honorary candle lighters. Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem after the Jewish victory over an oppressive army of Syrians and Greeks in 165 B.C.E., who had not allowed the Jewish people to live or worship freely. This Festival celebrates the freedom of religion, culture and self-determination that God has granted to all human beings--a founding principle of our country. Congregation Ahavath Sholom participated in Mayor Betsy Price's ``Connect with the Community'' program on October 25th. During the ceremony, the Congregation was honored for its participation in the Tarrant Area Community of Churches and Fort Worth Housing Authority's ``Clean for Quarters'' program--a program allowing those who were formerly homeless to have clean clothes ready for job interviews and work assignments. Through Rabbi Bloom's involvement and leadership, the congregation has enjoyed new initiatives in the areas of pluralism and cultural diversity in collaboration with the Fort Worth Intermediate School District, and has worked to foster greater understanding between faiths with its neighboring churches, the Brite Divinity School and Texas Christian University.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Like all the Members that are speaking tonight, I'm very honored to pay tribute to our friend, Ralph Hall. And I thank Congressman Lamar Smith for organizing this very well-deserved tribute. Congressman Hall served his country as an aircraft carrier pilot in World War II, and has continued his commitment to service ever since. As the oldest Member of Congress to cast a recorded floor vote, the dean of the Texas congressional delegation, and the oldest Member of this House, Congressman Hall has a long, distinguished career behind him. More important than the longevity of Ralph Hall's service, however, is the incredible dedication and commitment to his constituents that he's shown in his service. Congressman Hall has repeatedly earned the trust and respect of voters of north Texas who elected him to his first political office 62 years ago, and they've been sending him back with overwhelming support for 32 years. All along the way, in every office he's served, Congressman Hall has made Texas proud, and continues to do so as chairman of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee. Serving with Ralph has been a true honor, and I look forward to continuing to serve with him well into the future.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, for the last three years Shirlee and Taylor Gandy of Fort Worth, Texas, have dedicated themselves to preserving an important piece of both Fort Worth and American history. On November 22, 1963, President John F. Kennedy awoke in Fort Worth to find thousands of people standing in the cold rain outside his hotel. The President was in Texas to unify his party leading up to the 1964 election. That rainy day in Fort Worth, he delivered two speeches. The first was delivered to the crowd waiting for him outside the Hotel Texas, and the second to the Chamber of Commerce. The President greeted the crowd outside, shook hands, and gave a short but rousing speech received with excitement by those in attendance. He spoke of the progress our nation was making, as well as the challenges we faced. He in turn famously challenged the American people to bear the burdens of leadership. Inside the hotel's ballroom, the President addressed the Chamber gathering, speaking of national defense and Fort Worth's historic role in the effort. He left Fort Worth to a tickertape parade and the words of his final two speeches faded quickly in the wake of the tragic events that followed. The citizens of Fort Worth, the nation, and the world had just heard the final public thoughts of President John F. Kennedy. His visit was a triumph and his remarks, as much then as now, bear remembering. Nearly 50 years after the President's death, Shirlee and Taylor Gandy have championed the effort to pay tribute to John Fitzgerald Kennedy, his Presidency, and his historic Fort Worth visit. The Gandys led the cause, making a generous personal commitment to start the project, which includes a completed 8' bronze sculpture of the President by Texas artist Lawrence Ludtke. They assembled a committee of friends and members of Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. to guide the process. But perhaps their most impressive contribution to the cause was their time. They personally labored over all the painstaking details necessary to the project. Their labors were rewarded with a beautiful sculpture, handsome tribute design and a successful fundraising campaign. On February 27th of this year, the Gandy's were joined by Fort Worth and Tarrant County dignitaries, including former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Jim Wright, to turn the first shovels of ground on this project. The JFK Tribute in Fort Worth will be complete in the fall of 2012. When the Tribute opens in General Worth Square on Main Street, the themes of the Kennedy Presidency will find a new public outlet for expression. His last public address and his Fort Worth visit will be remembered in bronze and granite. And perhaps just as importantly, the warm, genuine, enthusiastic reception President Kennedy received in Texas that has been so long overshadowed by an act of atrocity, will also be remembered. On behalf of the people of Fort Worth, Texas and the United States of America, I wish to formally thank Shirlee J. and Taylor Gandy for their leadership in the creation of the JFK Tribute in Fort Worth.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Petty Officer 3rd Class Clayton R. Beauchamp who was killed on August 7, 2012 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Petty Officer Beauchamp was serving with the 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 6, based at Camp Pendleton, California. Petty Officer Beauchamp was from Weatherford, TX. He graduated from Weatherford High School in 2009 and enlisted in the Navy that July. Petty Officer Beauchamp is one of three siblings who have all chosen to serve in the United States Navy. His brother, Christopher Beauchamp, is a six-year Navy corpsman serving his third tour overseas, and his younger sister, Cheyenne Beauchamp, is in the Navy Security Forces, stationed in Virginia. According to friends, Clay always knew he wanted to serve after high school, and he signed up at the first possible opportunity on his 17th birthday, Jan. 16, 2008, more than a year before graduation. Petty Officer Beauchamp, a medical corpsman, had earned a Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Navy Good Conduct Medal, Navy Expert ribbons in rifle and pistol and the Fleet Marine Force Enlisted Warfare Specialist device, and was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart. Petty Officer 3rd Class Clayton R. Beauchamp was a true patriot and made the ultimate sacrifice defending his country. I wish to extend my condolences to Petty Officer Beauchamp's parents, Jack and Diana, and his sister Cheyenne and brothers Christopher, Brian and Timothy, and hope that they continue to find solace in his lasting impact on this grateful nation, his fellow soldiers, and our community.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the 50th anniversary of MICA Corporation--a family-owned company based in Fort Worth, Texas. Back in 1962, two ambitious men named Mickey Stewart and Cayce Tubb had a vision for their futures and a plan for success. Together, they established the MICA Corporation to perform highway guard-rail contract work. Over the years, MICA Corporation has remained on the cutting edge of Texas highway construction and become a well- known and highly respected state-wide company. L.C. Tubb, son of co- founder Cayce Tubb and the current owner of MICA Corporation, has flown all of his employees to Washington, DC to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this great company. I am very proud of what this company has accomplished over the years and pleased that it calls Fort Worth home. Today, I want to welcome L.C. and the many dedicated employees of MICA Corporation to Washington, DC. I want to congratulate everyone at MICA Corporation on achieving this milestone, and wish them many, many more years of success.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a man who has preserved Fort Worth's unique history and has made sure it is available for future generations; Holt Hickman. This Weatherford native is being honored at the Texas Independence Day in Fort Worth, and I couldn't think of a better Cowtown honoree. While Holt is being recognized for his commitment to Fort Worth's past, his business career has been about innovation and looking to the future. Holt is responsible for helping bring air conditioning to automobiles turning the feature from a luxury to a necessity. The first Japanese cars sold to the U.S. market had air conditioning only because Holt convinced the auto makers this was the future. Holt is not only a successful businessman who has had local, national and international reach, he has also been one of the many tenacious civic leaders in our community who have made Fort Worth what it is today. Holt helped save and preserve the Fort Worth Stockyards in what was one of the largest historic preservation projects in the country. He accomplished this in part by working with passionate and committed partners. Because of his efforts, the Stockyards are one of the most visited and beloved areas of the city today. As Mayor, I was privileged to have Holt as a partner and that friendship has continued throughout my career. His energy, generosity, and vision will continue to enhance our city's cowboy heritage for generations to come. I couldn't think of a more deserving Texan to be honored on the day of our state's independence.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the State- Foreign Operations division of this conference agreement, which contains $42.1 billion in discretionary budget authority. This means that since January, spending in this bill will decrease in this bill by $6.6 billion, or more than 13 percent. The agreement includes overseas contingency operations spending for State and USAID to implement in frontline states and conflict areas. These costs are temporary and extraordinary and will be reduced over time. This bill has been written to address our foreign assistance and State Department funding through the lens of what is most important to our national security interests and the security of our allies and our neighbor Mexico. The bill provides security assistance for critical allies, including full finding for the U.S.-Israel memorandum of understanding. The bill also carries new language on the Palestinian Authority, cutting off their economic aid and stopping their ability to have a U.S. office if they obtain member state status at the United Nations. Additionally, the bill addresses concerns about assistance to Egypt and to Pakistan. New restrictions are also placed on the U.N. and other international organizations. For example, funds are withheld from these organizations until they publicly display their audit and financial reports. I want to thank the members of the State-Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee and, in particular, my ranking member, Mrs. Lowey, who has been extremely helpful in developing this compromise. I also thank my colleagues across the Capitol who worked in good faith for the best possible outcomes. I believe we were successful in protecting our national security while providing appropriate oversight of taxpayer dollars. I want to sincerely thank the staff: from Mrs. Lowey's staff, Steve Marchese, Erin Kolodjeski and Talia Dubovi; and on my staff, Anne Marie Chotvacs, Clelia Alvarado, Alice Hogans, Susan Adams, Craig Higgins, Jamie Guinn, Johnnie Kaberle, and Matt Leffingwell. They all worked appreciable hours and with great dedication.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Army Sergeant First Class Houston M. Taylor who was killed on October 13, 2011 in Kunar Province, Afghanistan. He was working in support of Operation Enduring Freedom while serving with Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division based at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Sergeant First Class Taylor was posthumously promoted to Sergeant First Class and awarded a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his actions. Sergeant First Class Taylor was 25 years old, attended Azle High School, in Azle, Texas, and enlisted in the Army in 2005. His first assignment was to Fort Lewis, Washington, with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division. Sergeant First Class Taylor deployed to Iraq in 2006 and 2008 before deploying to Afghanistan in early 2011. Sergeant Taylor was killed during his third combat tour. He leaves behind his high school sweetheart and wife, Kelsey Rae Taylor, and two young children, Rylan, and Avery. Sergeant First Class Taylor gallantly and selflessly gave his life in the service of his country when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire while they were on foot patrol in Afghanistan. Major Dave Eastburn, a spokesman for the brigade in which Sergeant First Class Taylor served, said Sergeant First Class Taylor ``was a warrior, a great leader, and will be truly missed.'' This affirmation only confirms what his family and friends already knew about Sergeant First Class Taylor. His mother knew from an early age that he was destined for the service and his wife said that ``he never complained about anything he had to do'' in the Army. I wish to extend my condolences to Sergeant First Class Taylor's wife, Kelsey Rae, his children, Rylan and Avery, his parents, and all of his family and friends. I hope they continue to find solace in his lasting impact on both this grateful nation and his fellow soldiers.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Thank you very much for yielding to me and thank you for the time where we get to talk about women and our seniors. Women have made great strides in the workforce and in politics-- actually, in all areas of life. But while we've had our careers, we're still the primary caregivers for our children, and we're the ones often responsible for managing our household budget. Additionally, many of us have added the responsibility of caring for our aging and sick parents that we owe so much to, as you've talked about. We know the importance of being there for our parents, the way they were there for us throughout our lives, and that's why tonight the House Republican women are focusing on the issues that matter to America's seniors. While Medicare and Social Security often make the headlines, Alzheimer's disease is a challenge that's touched nearly all of us in some way, someone we know, if not our own family. Beyond the emotional toll, Alzheimer's is a disease that will weigh down our economy over the next century if it's not addressed head on. Nearly 6 million Americans are currently living with this disease, and every single day more than 10,000 baby boomers are turning 65. As these baby boomers age, one in eight will develop Alzheimer's. At a time when our government is looking for ways to save money, thinking about the economic cost of diseases like Alzheimer's is an important priority to consider. Today, Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, and we are seriously lacking in ways to prevent, cure, or even slow its progress. This year alone, the economic impact of caring for Alzheimer's patients will cost our economy a total of $183 billion. Unless something is done soon, the costs of Alzheimer's in the United States will total $20 trillion by the year 2050; $15 trillion of that cost will come from Medicare and Medicaid. This is a disease that is not only heartbreaking, but it is also a disease that we can't afford if we don't take action now. That means making Alzheimer's a national priority. Leadership from the Federal Government has helped reduce the number of deaths from other diseases, such as HIV-AIDS, influenza, pneumonia, and stroke. We need to do the same thing for Alzheimer's. We have the potential to create the same success that has been demonstrated in fights against other major diseases. By making Alzheimer's a priority, we can cut down on both the financial and the human cost of this disease. So I'm proud to stand with my Republican colleagues and talk about the issues that seniors and their families are dealing with every day. And we can find solutions.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of this bill to fund the continuing operations of the Federal Government until November 18. I appreciate the leadership of Chairman Rogers in addressing the responsibilities of this Congress. Passing this stopgap measure will give Congress time to complete the fiscal year 2012 appropriations process. In spite of our late start, the Appropriations Committee was still able to move 11 of the 12 appropriations bills this year. However, the committee still needs time to collaborate with the Senate. The continuing resolution funds vital government programs and services and allows essential bills to be paid. It reduces spending to the levels agreed to by the Congress and the administration in the Budget Control Act that was signed into law in August. And it avoids controversial policy riders in order to ensure swift passage. There are many reasons Members should support this bill. Perhaps one of the most important is what this bill does for our military. Without a CR, our servicemembers and their families don't get paid. They would have to continue to do their work protecting the country, but they would have to do it while worrying about whether they would be able to pay their bills or mortgage. Our brave men and women in uniform already faced that possibility earlier this year. They deserve better. They need to know that the United States Congress stands behind them. This bill addresses disaster relief, and it funds it in a responsible way. I urge my colleagues to support this bill so it can be enacted as soon as possible and the Appropriations Committee can complete its work without any further delay. This is a responsible action for us to take to go forward. The American people expect the Congress to do our jobs. The Appropriations Committee must complete its work.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Army Specialist Michael C. Roberts who was killed on August 27, 2011 in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom while serving with the 561st Military Police Company, based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Specialist Roberts was 23 years old and was from Watauga, Texas. He graduated from Richland High School in Fort Worth, Texas in 2006 where he played tuba in the band and was a varsity wrestler. Specialist Roberts was the youngest of three brothers to join the Army when he enlisted in November 2007. According to his brother Patrick, Specialist Roberts relished the opportunity to ``have a positive influence.'' Specialist Roberts' first tour was to Iraq in 2009 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as a communications specialist with the 1st Cavalry Division based at Fort Hood, Texas. He re-enlisted in 2010 and transferred to Fort Campbell, Kentucky in February 2011. Specialist Roberts was on his second tour when he was killed. He lost his life to a vehicle borne improvised explosive device that detonated near his patrol. Specialist Roberts was protecting a secured area outside a police station when a vehicle attempted to breach the area. Specialist Roberts engaged the enemy, forcing them to detonate the device prematurely, and preventing them from injuring or killing a large number of fellow soldiers. Specialist Roberts was recognized for his actions by being awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Combat Action Badge. Our nation can never repay the debt we owe to this brave man and his family, who understand firsthand the meaning of service and sacrifice. Specialist Roberts represents the best values of this nation and of the United States Army. Specialist Roberts is fondly remembered as someone who lived life to the fullest, laughed every day, was extremely generous, and stood strongly for what he believed. I wish to extend my condolences to Specialist Roberts' parents, David and Kathy, and his brothers Patrick and Brian, and hope that they continue to find solace in his lasting impact on both this grateful nation and his fellow soldiers.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Master-At-Arms Petty Officer First Class John Douangdara who died August 6th in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. Petty Officer Douangdara was a patriot and a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice ensuring the security of our Nation. He will be greatly missed. Petty Officer Douangdara was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous awards, including two Bronze Star Medals with Valor, Purple Heart Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, two Presidential Unit Citations, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and numerous other personal and unit decorations. Petty Officer Douangdara is survived by his family, friends, and teammates. His Nation owes Petty Officer Douangdara an enormous debt of gratitude. We are honored to have had such an exemplary American fighting for his country. I wish to extend my condolences to Petty Officer Douangdara's family, friends, and teammates and hope they continue to find solace in his lasting impact on his grateful Nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Cryptologic Technician Petty Officer First Class Michael Joseph Strange who died August 6th in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. Petty Officer Strange was a patriot and a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice ensuring the security of our nation. He will be greatly missed. Petty Officer Strange was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous awards, including the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, Purple Heart Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, and other campaign and unit decorations. Petty Officer Strange is survived by his loving family, friends, and teammates. His nation owes Petty Officer Strange an enormous debt of gratitude. We are honored to have had such an exemplary American fighting for his country. I wish to extend my condolences to Petty Officer Strange's family, friends, and teammates and hope they continue to find solace in his lasting impact on his grateful nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Petty Officer Special Warfare Operator Stephen Matthew Mills who died August 6th in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. Chief Mills was a patriot and a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice ensuring the security of our nation. He will be greatly missed. Chief Mills was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous awards, including three Bronze Star Medals with Valor, Purple Heart Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Valor, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, two Combat Action Ribbons, two Presidential Unit Citations, two Meritorious Unit Commendations, Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and numerous other personal and unit decorations. Chief Mills is survived by his loving family, friends, and teammates. His nation owes Chief Mills an enormous debt of gratitude. We are honored to have had such an exemplary American fighting for his country. I wish to extend my condolences to Chief Mills' family, friends, and teammates and hope they continue to find solace in his lasting impact on his grateful nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Information Systems Technician Petty Officer First Class Jared William Day who died August 6th in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. Petty Officer Day was a patriot and a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice ensuring the security of our nation. He will be greatly missed. Petty Officer Day was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous awards, including the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, Purple Heart Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor, Joint Service Achievement Medal, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, Combat Action Ribbon, two Presidential Unit Citations, two Navy Good Conduct Medals, two Afghanistan Campaign Medals, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and numerous other personal unit decorations. Petty Officer Jared Day is survived by his loving family, friends, and teammates. His nation owes Petty Officer Day an enormous debt of gratitude. We are honored to have had such an exemplary American fighting for his country. I wish to extend my condolences to Petty Officer Day's family, friends, and teammates and hope they continue to find solace in his lasting impact on his grateful nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Petty Officer Special Warfare Operator Matthew David Mason who died August 6th in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. Chief Mason was a patriot and a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice ensuring the security of our Nation. He will be greatly missed. Chief Mason was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous awards, including three Bronze Star Medals with Valor, including one for extraordinary heroism, Purple Heart Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Valor, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, two Combat Action Ribbons, two Presidential Unit Citations, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Commendation, two Afghanistan Campaign Medals, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and numerous other personal and unit decorations. Chief Mason is survived by his family, friends, and teammates. His Nation owes Chief Mason enormous debt of gratitude. We are honored to have had such an exemplary American fighting for his country. I wish to extend my condolences to Chief Mason's family, friends, and teammates and hope they continue to find solace in his lasting impact on his grateful Nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Petty Officer Special Warfare Operator Kevin Arthur Houston who died August 6th in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. Chief Houston was a patriot and a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice ensuring the security of our Nation. He will be greatly missed. Chief Houston was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous awards, including three Bronze Star Medals with Valor, two Purple Heart Medals, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, two Combat Action Ribbons, two Presidential Unit Citations, three Afghanistan Campaign Medals, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and numerous other personal and unit decorations. Chief Houston is survived by his loving family, friends, and teammates. His Nation owes Chief Houston an enormous debt of gratitude. We are honored to have had such an exemplary American fighting for his country. I wish to extend my condolences to Chief Houston's family, friends, and teammates and hope they continue to find solace in his lasting impact on his grateful Nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.