Sam Graves

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of House Resolution 861. Since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, we have pursued terrorists and brought them to justice around the world. In this Global War on Terror--where evil, bloodthirsty fanatics kill to prevent democracy and liberty from taking root--there is no option for the forces of freedom but victory. This resolution affirms our commitment to victory. It is a solemn declaration that we will prevail over the terrorists, and that we will do so hand in hand with all who cherish freedom and repudiate extremism. Mr. Speaker, I came to Congress in January 2001. The Global War on Terror has been the defining issue during much of my time here on Capitol Hill. From that perspective, I can state that we have made tremendous progress in strengthening our defenses at home, and taking the fight to our enemies overseas. I visited Iraq for the first time in December 2003, shortly before the capture of Saddam Hussein. At that time, the Iraqi Governing Council had been formed, but the Coalition Provisional Authority still exercised most of the essential functions of government. In December 2003, Iraqi sovereignty seemed possible, but distant. I returned to Iraq this past Memorial Day recess. We are well on our way to achieving our goals. The death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the foreign terrorist who was al-Qaeda's top commander in Iraq, puts us one step closer to neutralizing the insurgency and defeating the terrorists. Democracy and liberty have taken root in the heart of a region that is not known for either. The Iraq I visited two weeks ago had a sovereign, democratic government; the result of three successful elections. And after much negotiation, the Iraqi government recently named interior, defense, and security ministers. These new ministers will continue to lead Iraq to security self-reliance. As an example of the improved security on the ground, it was my honor and privilege to be part of the first Congressional Delegation to spend the night Baghdad. The new leaders of Iraq implored me to bring back a message to this Congress: Iraq will never achieve security self-reliance if the United States leaves before its work is done. If we leave before our job is done, the terrorists and insurgents will not only wreak greater havoc upon the Iraqi people, but they will also create a terrorist state from which to perpetrate acts of violence against those who disagree with their world view. For the sake of our own national security, we must do everything we can to support the new leaders of Iraq. Mr. Speaker, I also had the opportunity to visit Afghanistan during the Memorial Day Recess. President Karzai heads a fully democratic government, the culmination of a complete transition to democracy. Women now have the right to vote and work. Although President Karzai's government has greatly extended its authority, history teaches us that we cannot let any part of Afghanistan remain a haven for terrorists. We must continue to pursue, capture, and eradicate the remaining Al Qaeda/ Taliban terrorists. What I saw overseas is not what is being reported by the media back home. The Iraqi economy is picking up steam: currency is more stable, the national stock exchange is up and running, and business registrations are on the rise. More roads and schools are being built as we speak, and the oil sector shows promise as pipeline security efforts increase. In Afghanistan, the Al Qaeda/Taliban terrorists are on the run and 28% of Afghan Parliament delegates are women. What our troops told me is not what is being reported either. We have the finest military in the world, and morale is high. Our brave troops know the world will be safer when the mission is complete. We must stand strong and support our troops and allies in this fight against global terror.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jimmy E. Steele III, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 167, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jimmy has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Jimmy has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Due to Jimmy's hard work and leadership, the Winston R-VI school baseball field now proudly displays a new flag pole and American Flag. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jimmy E. Steele III for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Trevor Tutt, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Trevor has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the many years Trevor has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Trevor Tutt for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Chance Brown, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 102, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Chance has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Chance has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Chance Brown for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Landon Crawford, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 102, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Landon has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Landon has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Landon Crawford for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jeffrey Lloyd, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 102, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Jeffrey has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Jeffrey has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Jeffrey Lloyd for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Clint Richardson, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 102, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Clint has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Clint has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Clint Richardson for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Cody Nichols, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 102, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Cody has been very active with his troop, participating in many Scout activities. Over the many years Cody has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Cody Nichols for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Josh Sutton, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 102, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Josh has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Josh has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Josh Sutton for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Blaine Evan Steck, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Blaine has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Blaine has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Blaine Evan Steck for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Taylor Michael Wallace, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Taylor has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Taylor has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Taylor Michael Wallace for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize John Anthony Clizer, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. John has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years John has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending John Anthony Clizer for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Noah Brandt Eber, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Noah has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Noah has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Noah Brandt Eber for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize James Cameron Jones, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. James has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years James has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending James Cameron Jones for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Brett James Main, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Brett has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Brett has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Brett James Main for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Aaron Scott McRuer, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Aaron has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Aaron has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Aaron Scott McRuer for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Kory Benjamin Roth, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Kory has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Kory has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Kory Benjamin Roth for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Joseph Olvera, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 337, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Joseph has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Joseph has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Joseph Olvera for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Northwest Missouri State University. Established in the year 1905, Northwest Missouri State University has just marked 100 years of outstanding service in higher education. Beginning as a two-year Normal School for teacher education, Northwest Missouri State University now is a nationally and internationally recognized university offering bachelor and master degree programs. Beginning in 1984, Northwest Missouri State University established a culture of quality and has won the Missouri Quality Award three times. An innovative leader, the first electronic campus at a public university in the United States was founded at Northwest Missouri State University in 1987. Northwest Missouri State University is a national leader in alternative fuels, having put in place a wood pellet system that has produced the University's own heating and cooling for more than 20 years, and providing a significant savings to the University and the State of Missouri. Among public colleges and universities, Northwest Missouri State University maintains one of the highest graduation rates at more than 60 percent. Students at Northwest Missouri State University consistently rank the university at the top of student satisfaction measurements. Realizing the need for more accessible education to all, Northwest Missouri State University established the American Dream Grant in 2004, the only program of its kind in the United States that provides students who qualify with free tuition, room and board, computer and textbooks. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Northwest Missouri State University, an exceptional institution in Missouri's Sixth Congressional District. The Northwest Missouri State University's commitment to excellence is inspiring, and I am honored to represent so many of its fine employees, students, and alumni in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Alexander Steven Ortega, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Alexander has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Alexander has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Alexander Steven Ortega for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Trevor Don Roth, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Trevor has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Trevor has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Trevor Don Roth for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Kyle Austin Spangler, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Kyle has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Kyle has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Kyle Austin Spangler for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Jim Weidinger. Jim is retiring after over 30 years of service to the United States Department of Agriculture in Rural Development. A lifelong Missourian, Jim was born and raised on a farm in Vienna, Missouri, then after the completion of high school attended the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. Jim began his career with Rural Development on February 11, 1975 as an Assistant Emergency Loan Supervisor in the Union, Missouri, office. His career spanned 30 years at various offices and levels within the Rural Development Department. Toward the end of his tenure, Jim was crucial in the process of obtaining grants that have been critical to the growth and development of northwest Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Jim Weidinger of St. Joseph, Missouri. Jim's commitment to excellence is remarkable, and I am honored to represent him in the United States Congress.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Anthony Warren, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 337, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Anthony has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Anthony has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Anthony Warren for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.

Mr. GRAVES

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Ren Dickson, a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 337, and in earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. Ren has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Ren has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Ren Dickson for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.