Phil Gingrey

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. I want to apologize to the gentleman. I referred to him as Dr. John Freeman. Actually, it's Dr. John Fleming, a family practitioner from the great State of Louisiana. And it reminds me, the reason I did that, Madam Speaker, is because Dr. John Freeman was one of my classmates in medical school and also one of my co- residents in my OB/GYN training back in Georgia. I think Dr. John Freeman practiced his entire career in Boone, North Carolina; and I hope Dr. John, wherever he is, is doing well, if he happens to be tuning into C-SPAN tonight. I wanted to say before yielding time to my colleague, Dr. Paul Broun, a fellow physician and family practitioner from the Athens and Augusta areas of Georgia, there was a letter sent from the National Coalition on Benefits within the last couple of days, addressed to the leadership of the House and Senate, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Minority Leader John Boehner, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, talking about the strong opposition to a public plan. I don't have time to stand here and read the names of all of these firms, but just to mention a few: Wal-Mart Stores, Xerox Corporation, Wellpoint Incorporated, Weyerhaeuser Company, National Restaurant Association, Bank of America, National Association of Health Underwriters, CIGNA Corporation, Chrysler LLC, Nike. I could go on and on. That's just maybe 5 percent of the number of companies that are a part of this National Coalition on Benefits that are so opposed to this idea of a public plan, which our colleagues, the 30-Something group, just an hour ago touted so strongly. At this point, I would like to yield to my good friend and colleague from Georgia, Dr. Paul Broun.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, for the next hour, I am going to be joined by a number of my colleagues on the Republican side of the aisle, and most of them are members of the GOP Doctors Caucus, and we are going to spend time, Madam Speaker, talking about health care reform. Certainly that is the number one thing that's on our plate as we go through these next 6 weeks leading up to the August recess. And, of course, as the President has outlined his desire to have a health reform bill on his desk for signature sometime in mid October of this year, whether or not that can be done remains to be seen. There are a lot of thoughts out there as to how to approach this, but we feel that it's very important as physician Members. I think there is something like 339 years of clinical experience combined in this GOP Doctors Caucus. About 15 of us are health care professionals who have actually practiced in the field, if you will, most of us involved just in clinical medicine, what I like to refer to, Madam Speaker, as meat-and- potatoes medicine. Not research at some high academic institutions but actually seeing patients every day in the office, in the operating room, in the delivery room. And so I think we have a perspective that we would like to share with Members on both sides of the aisle. Earlier in the evening, Madam Speaker, we heard from the 30-Something Group on the Democratic majority side. They were very articulate, very well spoken, but I think very wrong in some of the ideas that they have in regard to a government default plan, and we will talk about this during the hour. I have been joined by a couple of my colleagues, Dr. John Freeman, the doctor from Louisiana; and Dr. Paul Broun from Georgia. I would like to yield time to my colleague from Louisiana at this point.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, the government-run health care plan that my Democratic colleagues are pushing will lead to health care rationing and, ultimately, months of wait time for patients seeking treatment. Today, I want to read a testimonial from a Canadian citizen who has experienced firsthand the ill effects of their government-run health care. ``When I came to the major hospital in downtown Toronto with appendicitis, I had to wait overnight until a doctor saw me, but they did not have a CAT scan machine available, so they sent me home. I had to return to the hospital the next day, and at that time they rated me `less urgent.' When I asked them why, they told me I received the less urgent rating `because I have not died yet.' Again, it took many hours before I was able to see the doctor. Then I had to wait hours for an operating room before I was told that only those who would otherwise certainly die would receive surgery. However, the vet care in Canada is private, so there is nothing like this when it comes to taking care of my dog. The doctor is always available for a dog, but not for a human.'' Mr. Speaker, health reform must not preclude man nor his best friend from access to quality health care.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a young man from Georgia's 11th Congressional District who has distinguished himself as an excellent student and leader and has committed to serving his country. I am proud to announce that Grant Tucek from Powder Springs, Georgia has received appointments to both the United States Military Academy and the United States Naval Academy and will enter the Military Academy this year. Grant attends Harrison High School where he has a 4.22 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Beta Club. Grant is also in the top 5% of all foreign language students. Despite Grant's heavy focus on academics, he has remained very active in extracurricular activities. During High School, Grant has participated in the Navy JRROTC, where he has served as Company Executive Officer, Orienteering Team Commander, and as a member of the Rifle Team. He was also honored with the American Legion Military medal. Grant has also contributed to the arts and athletics at Harrison High School, playing trumpet in the Symphonic Band and running on Harrison's track and field team. Grant Tucek is an incredibly well-rounded young man, and I am honored to have the privilege to nominate him for an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy. I want to take this time to congratulate Grant as well as his parents, Wayne and Denise Tucek, for his accomplishments. It is because of dedicated young people like Grant that America has the finest military in the world. Our Nation is fortunate to have his service.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a young man from Georgia's 11th Congressional District who has distinguished himself as an excellent student and leader and has committed to serving his country. I am proud to announce that Andrew Neault from Kennesaw, Georgia has received an appointment to the United States Merchant Marine Academy. Andrew attends Paulding County High School where he has a 3.7 Grade Point Average and is a member of the BETA Club. Andrew has been very active with the JROTC where he has excelled as a State Champion JROTC raider. He also served as the Athletic Director and Chief Petty Officer for the Navy Delayed Entry Program. In addition to Andrew's focus on academics and military preparation, he has remained very active in extracurricular activities. Andrew is on Paulding's football and wrestling teams and is a four-time nominee for the ``People to People'' student ambassador program. He is also very involved in community service, having volunteered at the Sunbelt Christian Youth Ranch in Mississippi, Thanksgiving for the Homeless, Thanksgiving for Youth Penitentiary, and Operation North Pole. Andrew Neault is an incredibly well-rounded young man, and I am honored to have the privilege to nominate him for an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. I ask that my colleagues take this time to congratulate Andrew as well as his parents, Raymond and Lynette Neault, for his accomplishments. It is because of dedicated young people like Andrew that America has the finest military in the world. Our nation is fortunate to have his service.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a young man from Georgia's 11th Congressional District who has distinguished himself as an excellent student and leader and has committed to serving his country. I am proud to announce that Scott Rowe from Kennesaw, Georgia has received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. Scott attends Harrison High School, where he has a 3.75 Grade Point Average and has earned the College Board AP Scholar Award. Scott is also a member of Mensa. In addition to Scott's focus on academics, he has remained very active in extracurricular activities. He is on Harrison's wrestling and swim teams and is President of the school's Integrity Team. Scott is also very involved in community service activities, such as Habitat for Humanity. Scott Rowe is an incredibly well-rounded young man, and I am honored to have the privilege to nominate him for an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. I ask that my colleagues take this time to congratulate Scott as well as his parents, Larry and Barbara Rowe, for his accomplishments. It is because of dedicated young people like Scott that America has the finest military in the world. Our nation is fortunate to have his service.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a young man from Georgia's 11th Congressional District who has distinguished himself as an excellent student and leader and has committed to serving his country. I am proud to announce that Duncan Hall from Kennesaw, Georgia has received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. Duncan attends North Cobb High School, where he has a 4.104 Grade Point Average and is the Vice President of the student body. Duncan is the Commanding Officer of the North Cobb and Harrison High School NJROTC Unit and has been the NJROTC Unit Academic Team Commander for the past two years. Duncan also serves as NJROTC Academic Tutor and a Character Education Advisor for Underclassman. He was presented the Theodore Roosevelt Youth Medal for Outstanding Performance of Duty in the NJROTC program by the Navy League of the United States and was selected as the Atlanta Metropolitan Navy League's 2nd runner up for Cadet of the Year. Duncan has also been recognized with the American Legion's Scholastic Achievement Medal. In addition to Duncan's focus on academics and military preparation, he has remained very active in extracurricular activities, lettering on both North Cobb's track and cross country teams. Duncan Hall is an incredibly well-rounded young man, and I am honored to have the privilege to nominate him for an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. I ask that my colleagues take this time to congratulate Duncan as well as his parents, Duncan and Stefani Hall, for his accomplishments. It is because of dedicated young people like Duncan that America has the finest military in the world. Our nation is fortunate to have his service.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, in celebration of the nation's largest youth scouting organization's 100th anniversary, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 356, a resolution expressing support for the designation of February 8, 2010, as ``Boy Scouts of America Day.'' The Boy Scouts of America is an outstanding organization that prepares young men to be the future leaders of our Nation. Since 1910, Scouting has helped mold these boys by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun. The Boy Scouts of America understands that helping youth puts our nation on a path toward a more conscientious, responsible, and productive society. Scouting helps young people develop self-confidence, as well as prepare them with academic, ethical, leadership, and citizenship skills that influence their adult lives. The Boy Scouts of America builds upon strong traditional family values to complement the education of our young men through its mission of mentoring, lifelong learning, faith traditions, serving others, healthy living, and building character. While various activities and youth groups teach basic skills and promote teamwork, Scouting goes beyond that and encourages youth to achieve a deeper appreciation for service to others in their communities. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, Scouting promotes activities that lead to personal responsibility and high self-esteem. As a result, when hard decisions must be made, peer pressure can be resisted and the right choices can be made. Madam Speaker, from the beginning of the Boy Scout program to the eventual completion and rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America has long trained young men in the necessary skills that will enable them to be the future leaders of the United States. I applaud the efforts and the accomplishments of all of our nation's Boy Scouts, and specifically those of the 11th District of Georgia, which is my privilege to represent in Congress. I urge all of my colleagues to continue to support this honorable organization and the excellent young men that it continues to produce.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a young man from Georgia's 11th Congressional District who has distinguished himself as an excellent student and leader and has committed to serving his country. I am proud to announce that William Orr from Rome, Georgia, has received an appointment to the United States Military Academy. Will attends Darlington School, where he has a 3.93 Grade Point Average and has been selected as a member of the National Honor Society. In addition to his academic achievements, Will has also been an athletic star for Darlington, where he has played on Darlington's football, basketball, and soccer teams. He has earned varsity letters in four sports while at Darlington and was a captain on the football team for two years. Will is also very dedicated to public service and has participated in multiple mission trips with his church. Further, he has been selected to be a part of West Point's Summer Leadership Seminar. Will Orr is an incredibly well-rounded young man, and I am honored to have the privilege to nominate him for an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy. I ask that my colleagues take this time to congratulate Will as well as his parents, James and Jo Orr, for all of his accomplishments. It is because of dedicated young people like Will that America has the finest military in the world. Our nation is fortunate to have his service.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1709--the STEM Education Coordination Act of 2009. As a former Member of the Science Committee, I commend my colleague from Tennessee--Chairman Bart Gordon--for his leadership in crafting this thoughtful legislation that was reported to the House on a broad bipartisan basis. As a graduate of Georgia Tech with a degree in Chemistry, I know how important it will be that there is a continued focus on STEM--science, technology, engineering, and mathematics--education in order for our future workforce to be competitive in a global, technology-based, economy. Unfortunately, we are simply not graduating enough students in these critical fields of science and engineering compared to the rest of the world. According to a recent study, 50% of students in China receive their undergraduate degrees in natural science or engineering; in Singapore, that number is 67%, and 38% of South Korea's graduates fall into these fields. Unfortunately, the United States is lagging behind with a mere 15% of graduates in natural science or engineering. During the 110th Congress, I was proud to work with my colleagues on the Science Committee to pass the America COMPETES Act, which was signed into law by President Bush on August 9, 2007. This legislation took a good first step in addressing our shortcomings in STEM education, but we still have a large gap to close in this area. H.R. 1709 would establish a committee at the National Science and Technology Council through the Office of Science and Technology Policy that would coordinate the federal programs that support STEM education across the country. I believe that this legislation will help further the progress and efforts that have been made by the America COMPETES Act. Furthermore, I commend all of my colleagues on the Science Committee for working in a bipartisan manner to move this important legislation forward. I urge all of my colleagues to support H.R. 1709.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a very talented group of young men from Cartersville in Georgia's 11th District. This past weekend, the Cartersville High School Purple Hurricanes claimed the Class AAA Georgia High School Association State Baseball Championship. Success on the baseball diamond is nothing new for Cartersville High School, which has won back to back state titles and claimed five championships since 2001. However, this year's title win was extra sweet, as the Canes rallied back from a 7-5 deficit to win Game 3 of the championship series--defeating the Columbus Blue Devils, who were the 3rd ranked team in the nation, by a final score of 10-7. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Coach Stuart Chester and the Cartersville High School Baseball Team for their successful season as well as the hard work that got them there. And with a team that has made winning a tradition and brought home two straight state championships, the next question is can Cartersville make it a three- peat?

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the 248th Medical Company, which is scheduled for deployment to Balad, Iraq on Friday, June 5, 2009, after a month of training at Fort Lewis in Washington State. The 248th is stationed at the Marietta National Guard Armory in my hometown, Marietta, Georgia. As a physician, this group of citizen soldiers holds a special place in my heart as their primary mission while in Iraq will be to treat any medical problems or issues that their fellow troops may experience. The unit includes doctors, nurses and physician assistants who will trade their white lab coats for Army green fatigues to help care for those on the frontlines in the Global War on Terror. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the courage and bravery of each member of the 248th and thanking them for their service to this country. Know that you and your families will be in our thoughts and prayers, and please do not hesitate to contact my office if there is any way that we can assist you over the next twelve months. God Bless you and your families and God bless America.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a very talented group of young men from Cartersville, Georgia, in District 11. This past weekend, the Cartersville High School Purple Hurricanes claimed the Class AAA Georgia High School Association State Baseball Championship. Success on the baseball diamond is nothing new for Cartersville High School, which has won back-to-back State titles and claimed five championships since 2001. However, this year's title was extra sweet, as the Canes rallied back from a 7-5 deficit in the third game of the championship series, defeating the Columbus Blue Devils, who were the third ranked high school team in the Nation. The final score was Cartersville 10, Columbus 7. I ask that all my colleagues join me in recognizing Coach Stuart Chester and the Cartersville High School baseball team for their successful season as well as the hard work that got them there. And with a team that has made winning a tradition and brought home two straight State championships, the next question is: Can Cartersville make it a three-peat? I feel sure that they can, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a delegation, from my district that has traveled to Washington representing Polk County, Georgia and its Chamber of Commerce. The delegation includes representatives from the Chamber, elected officials from the City of Cedartown, elected officials from the City of Rockmart, county elected officials, as well as local business leaders. Located just outside metro Atlanta on the Georgia-Alabama line, Polk County offers a number of great opportunities for both residents and businesses that are looking to locate to Georgia. However, like counties across America, Polk County and its citizens are facing their own economic challenges. For this reason, this delegation has come to Washington to advocate on behalf of their community and to discuss both the potential positive and negative impact that actions here in Washington can have not just on Polk County, but on all of our Nation's communities. I want to take this opportunity to commend the Polk County Chamber of Commerce for taking this proactive approach in representing the best interests of the people of Northwest Georgia. I look forward to our visit as we continue to work together to facilitate a stronger and even more economically vibrant Polk County.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Missouri for yielding time to me and for bringing to this body this important hour. I was watching our colleagues on the other side of the aisle, the Democrat majority. I think they were mostly freshmen who had the previous hour, and they were praising, of course, the American Clean Energy Act and Security Act of 2009, and they were talking about all of the great and wonderful things that it does. Certainly, there are some good things in the bill. I'm not going to stand here, Mr. Speaker, and completely criticize every aspect of it. Our freshmen colleagues--our Democrat colleagues--spoke very eloquently, but they never talked about the whole picture. I don't know where they were. They obviously were not Members of this body in the 110th Congress when we Republicans stayed here a year ago in August rather than going home for our vacations, or for our August recess, or for our codels. The Speaker and others rushed out of here to head out to foreign places, leaving Americans high and dry with $4 a gallon regular gasoline at the time. That's when the real commitment came on our side of the aisle to say it's unconscionable to leave this body and to do nothing for the American people and to say, oh, well, we'll take care of it in 5 weeks when we get back in early September. That's exactly what the Democrat majority did a little less than a year ago. When I heard my freshmen colleagues on the other side of the aisle talking about how wonderful this new cap-and-trade energy bill is, I think one of them even described it as the foundation for new prosperity from sea to shining sea. Well, let me just tell you, Mr. Speaker: the folks in the 11th District of Georgia, in northwest Georgia--in fact, in the entire State of Georgia, in fact in the entire Southeast--don't think this is a foundation for new prosperity from sea to shining sea. It might be wonderful for northern New Mexico. It might be good for upstate New York. It may be good for some parts of Virginia. It may even be good, I guess--although I can't imagine how-- in some parts of Michigan, which are the areas that these freshmen represent on the Democratic side of the aisle. I want to tell you that it is not good in the Southeast. I think my colleagues have already pointed out that what the Democratic majority has done with this American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 has crammed down the throats of the American people not a comprehensive, all-of-the-above approach. It is not going to be a foundation for new prosperity from sea to shining sea because what it does is raise energy prices for every American family by an average of $3,000 a year.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. I would be glad to yield back to the gentleman who controls the time. I thank him for allowing me to be part of the discussion.

Mr. GINGREY

Mr. GINGREY. If the gentleman will allow me, just on that same theme that you were just mentioning, this is not the number one concern of the American people today. The number one concern of the American people today is their jobs and their families and the cost of all these things, not just the cost of electricity, but everything that they have to purchase and concern over what's going to happen to Social Security and Medicare. And here we are going crazy about this cap-and-trade when we're taping our hands behind our back, penalizing the American people and losing jobs by the hundreds of thousands. It is pure idiocy, especially in an economic time of crisis like we're in.

Mr. GINGREY. I appreciate the gentleman yielding to me, Mr. Speaker, because this is a great segue into what I think is the bottom line here. When Madam Speaker became the Speaker in January of 2007, it was clear that her signature issue was this issue of global warming, and shortly after that Al Gore got a Nobel Prize. He shared it with an intergovernmental climate control panel of the United Nations, and of course, he came before the Science Committee and Energy and Commerce Committee. This was their signature issue. This was the most important thing, and here we are in 2009 in the deepest of recessions, the worst recession that we've experienced since the Great Depression--

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. If the gentleman will yield for an additional few seconds. Exactly. You break down this cost right at $3,000 a year for a family of four, it breaks down, as the gentleman has pointed out, Mr. Speaker, a 90 percent increase in the cost of electricity, 74 percent increase in the cost of gasoline, 55 percent increase in the cost of natural gas. Now, when I was home during this Memorial Day remembrance and district work period, I went to visit one of the plants in my district--again, northwest Georgia, the 11th--Dow Chemical, and what they do is make all kinds of products out of polyurethane, and the dashboard in your automobile is an example. And the cost, their feedstock is natural gas. And what we're doing is putting additional costs on all of these manufacturers, everybody that produces electricity, and it was a cost that was never there before. And somebody has to pay for that cost. And who is that somebody? The American public. I yield back to the gentleman.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as an original cosponsor, to voice my strong support for H. Res. 360, which urges Americans and people of every nationality to visit national cemeteries, memorials, and markers on this upcoming Memorial Day. Today, we rightfully take time to recognize the men and women who have dedicated their lives to the service of our nation. We are proud of all of our servicemen and women and are eternally grateful for their efforts in the Global War on Terror. Indeed, the democracy on display here today with our presence in this chamber is testament to the courage and valor of our Armed Services. Memorial Day is a federal holiday to celebrate the lives of those that have died while defending our nation. The soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who have served in our Armed Services deserve the utmost respect from our nation, and those that have died have made the ultimate sacrifice for the liberties that we enjoy every day. It is at their final resting place that there will forever be enshrined the spirit of American generosity, sacrifice, and courage that our brave men and women have so graciously provided in defense of our freedom. Let us also honor and say a gracious thank you to each and every military family member for the encouragement, love, and kindness they exhibit in supporting their precious loved ones as they serve a nation that will forever be free because of their sacrifice. It is to the family members that we say thank you now. Mr. Speaker, I believe it will be a worthwhile endeavor to spend time on this holiday remembering the sacrifice our heroes have made for America. I encourage every American to visit our national cemeteries and memorials so that they may take part in dedicating this holiday to the memory of the excellent men and women of our Armed Services who have spent a lifetime of service to America. I urge all of my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. It's a pleasure to be on the floor with my colleagues, with my physician colleagues, who are part of the GOP Doctors Caucus. I think, among us, we have something like 335 years of clinical experience, so we do feel that we bring to the body, to this great House of Representatives, some useful information, some practical information, not highbrow, academic, research-based information. I think we're just talking about, for the most part, the meat and potatoes practice of medicine, different specialties. We just heard from our colleague from Louisiana, Dr. Fleming--a family practitioner for many years. Dr. Roe from Tennessee is a long- term practitioner of obstetrics and gynecology, as am I, and we have a number of orthopedists in our GOP Doctors Caucus. So we bring a broad spectrum of experience. You know, as we look at this issue of health care reform, the main thing is the urgency that the Democrat majority has placed upon it to the extent that the Speaker, the majority leader, and the President want a health care reform bill by the time that we leave here for the traditional August recess. Here we are in mid-May, so we're talking about, maybe, 2\1/2\ months away. It's going to be awfully tough to do that. Although, Mr. Speaker and my colleagues, we have been doing a lot of work on both sides of the aisle. Unfortunately, it has not been done in a bipartisan way. Those of us in the minority, the Republican Party, have really not been privy to too many details about what is in the Democratic majority's plan for health care reform; but we can read; we can watch television; we can listen, and we can pay attention. Indeed, there have been some trips over to the White House to commiserate with the new Commander in Chief, our President, about ideas. The former majority leader of the Senate and the almost Secretary of Health and Human Services--and I'm talking about Senator Tom Daschle-- wrote that book called ``Critical'' where he kind of outlines what he thinks the blueprint for health care reform should be. So we're getting little inklings. I'll tell you, Mr. Speaker, the main thing that we're opposed to, and I think that I speak for all of my colleagues, I know, in the Republican GOP Doctors Caucus but probably for most of my colleagues on this side of the aisle no matter what their profession. We do not want to overreact to a problem, to a problem of too many people not being able to afford health insurance, to an overall problem of the cost of health care and to those insurance policies, 150 million of them probably provided by employers. Many of these employers are small, mom- and-pop companies, and they just can't afford it. They can't afford to continue to pay those premiums that are increasing by double-digit rates from year to year. So that's the problem, and we all understand that people don't have access because they can't afford it. In some instances, they don't have access because they have preexisting conditions, but we don't have to overreact. I don't know why it is that, in Congress, everything has to be a knee-jerk response where you just absolutely have to throw the whole kitchen sink at every problem. It may be because the media, in some instances, ginned it up almost to the point of hysteria. Then there are a lot of public opinion polls taken and a lot of push, and the next thing you know, you've spent $2 billion in preparing the country for swine flu and in producing a vaccine that probably will never be used, and if it is used, it will have the potential of doing a lot more harm than good. I don't want to say that we overreacted to Katrina. I don't think we did, but--gosh--we did buy a whole lot of trailers, sitting somewhere down there in Louisiana, that are soaked with formaldehyde because the construction was rushed. You know, in a lot of instances up here, we create, I think, more problems than we solve. There was an old adage, Mr. Speaker, in OB/ GYN--and I think Dr. Roe has probably heard this one, too, because he's also an OB/GYN practitioner. Most people want to say, ``Don't just sit there. Do something.'' How many times have we heard that expression up here? I mean, people will call and say, ``For goodness sakes, why don't you all do something? Don't just sit there. Do something even if it's wrong.'' For Dr. Roe and I, our motto was ``Don't just do something. Sit there.'' I'm talking about late at night when you're waiting for a lady to have a baby, and if you just leave her alone, she'll have that baby, and all you'll have to do is catch it, and if you start meddling and trying to push things and rush things and overreact, you cause some problems, don't you, Dr. Roe? I yield to the gentleman.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. ``Smoke a long cigar.'' That's right. A ``covered wagon'' I think they called those things back when I was a kid. Mr. Speaker, that's what I want to bring to this discussion tonight. We need to be very careful not to overreact. We don't need a government-run program to solve this problem. We do have too many who are uninsured. There are various and sundry reasons why they don't have health insurance. Yes, some of them are not poor enough to be eligible for Medicaid, so they missed that safety net. They're not old enough to be eligible for Medicare, so they missed that safety net. They just have enough money, but they can't afford expensive health insurance. We can do things to help them without turning this great health care system that we have--lock, stock and barrel--over to the Federal Government. Right now, part of the reason for lack of access and affordability is that the private market and the physicians who practice in that venue have a tendency to do too much. Maybe they order too many tests. Maybe they order duplicate tests because they don't know that the doctor down the street or in the next county had done the very same test a month ago. There are no electronic medical records for at least 300,000 doctors in this country, so we're a long way from having fully integrated electronic medical records where, every time that patient comes into your office or into the emergency room, you know exactly what they've had, what you should order and what you shouldn't order. So that's all part of the problem, but we can deal with this without having a government default program, because what happens is, in that instance, you're going to say, well, I'm going to solve this problem because the doctors and the hospitals are doing too much and are running up the cost, and so you turn it over to the Federal Government. What do they do? They do too little. They do too little. They begin to ration just like they do in other countries, like in the U.K. and like our great friends to the north and like other countries that have experienced that for many years. The only way they can pay for those systems is by rationing and by long queues. What happens? If they can afford to, a lot of those people come to this country for care. A lot of their doctors move to this country where they can practice medicine and can make a decent living. So I just wanted to touch on that. I will yield back to Dr. Roe, who is controlling the time. My friend from Georgia, Dr. Paul Broun, is on the floor. I know he'll want to talk and will want to bring some intelligence to this issue, but let's just say this as my closing remarks: I don't want to just do something even if it's wrong. I'm willing to sit there, to think and to hear from a lot of different folks who are experts on how we can best solve this problem, on how we can deal with this, whether they're the hospital associations, whether they're the insurance companies, whether they're the pharmaceutical companies or whether they're the doctors who've practiced for many, many years. I think we can come up with the answer, and I think we can do it a whole lot better. The final expression that I'll throw out there, Mr. Speaker, to you and my colleagues is the one that everybody has heard: ``Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater.'' We are on the verge of doing that. That would be a horrible thing for this country to take a great health care delivery system that needs some tweaking and that we can do in a bipartisan way without turning it over--lock, stock and barrel--to the Federal Government. They do a lousy job at running a lot of programs, and I certainly don't want them deciding what needs to be ordered and to come between the doctor and the patient in the exam room. With that, I'm going to yield back to Dr. Roe of Tennessee.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H.R. 1178, legislation that would direct the Comptroller General to conduct a study on the use of Civil Air Patrol personnel to support homeland security missions. Since its inception in 1941, the Civil Air Patrol has been vital in emergency services and disaster relief operations across the United States. As the official civilian auxiliary to the United States Air Force, the Civil Air Patrol contains over 56,000 of America's finest volunteers and owns several thousand aircraft and vehicles to complete its missions. Furthermore, the Civil Air Patrol has provided the nation's youth and general public with aerospace education and created numerous cadet programs for young people ages 12-18. These cadet programs help supply the necessary skills and resources for our nation's future leaders. Two such leaders, Barry and Christiana Loudermilk, reside in the 11th District of Georgia, which it has been an honor and privilege to represent for the last six years in this great body. Despite a very busy and demanding career as both a State Legislator and a businessman, Barry Loudermilk is an active officer in the Rome Civil Air Patrol Squadron. He also serves as the Squadron Commander of the Georgia Civil Air Patrol Legislative Squadron and is a Government Affairs Officer for the Georgia Wing Civil Air Patrol. Additionally, Barry has been active in his community as a Volunteer Search and Rescue Ground Team Leader and a Volunteer Search and Rescue Pilot. His daughter, Christiana, has distinguished herself as a leader throughout her career in the Civil Air Patrol. Christiana holds the rank of Cadet Captain and is a certified ground search and rescue specialist. She served as the Cadet Commander of the Rome Composite Squadron and attended the 2007 Cadet Officers School at Maxwell Air Force Base. For her tireless efforts, Christiana has received the Georgia Air Wing Commander's ``Coin of Excellence,'' and was awarded the Civil Air Patrol's ``Community Service Award'' for her volunteer works in a local hospital. In 2008, Christiana served as the Alpha Flight Commander at the Georgia Wing encampment and her flight was named the encampment's ``Honor Flight.'' In addition to serving as Alpha Flight Commander, she was selected to attend the ``Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training Course'' at Columbus Air Force Base in Columbus, Mississippi. I want to publicly thank Christiana for her service and thank the Civil Air Patrol for providing this type of quality leadership training to our young people. Madam Speaker, it is my firm belief that the Civil Air Patrol will provide an extraordinary addition to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) if the Comptroller General finds it worthwhile for such an endeavor. The Civil Air Patrol has displayed volunteer leadership for over 60 years in working with the United States Air Force, and it is a leader for developing our nation's youth. I applaud both Barry and Christiana Loudermilk for their accomplishments in this organization, and I support expanding the mission of the Civil Air Patrol so that they can assist DHS in defending the United States. We must use every resource necessary to keep America safe, and I am positive that the Civil Air Patrol will add to and continue the remarkable job our military has provided in defending our nation at home and abroad.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my strongest support for H. Res. 377, a bill that recognizes Armed Forces Day and commends the exemplary service of the members of the United States Armed Services. I would like to say a special thanks to Chairman Skelton and Ranking Member McHugh, as well as to the Members and staff of the House Armed Services Committee for their tireless efforts in support of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who are bravely defending us at home and abroad. Today, it is appropriate that we take a moment to recognize and say thank you to the members of our Armed Forces for their dedication, sacrifice, and honor. Each and every day, they keep this great nation safe and protect the freedoms that we enjoy every single day. We are proud of all of our servicemen and women and are eternally grateful for their efforts in the Global War on Terror. Furthermore, let us not forget those who have given their lives in service to our freedom, and let us say a gracious thank you to them for their willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for liberty. Madam Speaker, the families of those who serve our country on the front lines also deserve the admiration and appreciation of each and every citizen. These family members often watch their loved ones travel to far away lands in support of a cause and an ideal so much greater than any one individual. Indeed, our democratic form of government is testament to the courage and valor of our Armed Forces. The support given to our servicemen and women by their loved ones is irreplaceable, as it is the foundation for the bravery inherent in those who labor steadfastly in the defense of liberty. I believe that the brave men and women who sacrifice for our present freedoms deserve our fullest support. Our nation's servicemen and women represent the best our country has to offer, and they must be treated with the respect and honor they deserve. As we ask these courageous soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines--and their families--to do more and more, it's only right we continue doing all we can for them. Recognizing Armed Forces Day in 2009 is just one small reminder of the superior job our troops perform for America at home and abroad, and it is my hope that we will continue to do all we can and more for the members of our Armed Forces. Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 388, celebrating the role of mothers in the United States and supporting the goals and ideals of Mother's Day. House Resolution 388 enumerates not only the ``immeasurable contributions toward building strong families, thriving communities, and ultimately a strong Nation'' made by mothers but also the importance of Mother's Day in recognition of these contributions. From hallowed chambers to corporate boardrooms to classrooms to assembly lines, none of us would be the individuals we are without our mothers. While every family, every relationship is unique, we know that the bond between a child and a maternal figure--whether a mother, a grandmother, a stepmother, or a foster mother--is so very important. Strong families are the backbone of our nation. It is therefore very appropriate that we take this time today to celebrate and recognize the contributions of our nation's mothers to the strength and prosperity of America. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to take a moment of personal privilege, as I have done before on the floor of this House, to talk a little bit about a very special woman--my Mother, Mrs. Helen Cecelia Gannon Gingrey. Born in New York City in 1918, my mother has lived and continues to live life to its fullest. From the hustle and bustle of Manhattan to the serenity and beauty of South Carolina, my mother--grounded in her deep faith and her love for her husband, her children, her grandchildren, and her great grandchildren--has never stopped, never strayed from her commitment to God and to family. Mr. Speaker, at 91 years young, my mother has also refused to let time and its effects keep her down, so much so that at the end of last year, she opted for a second knee replacement--with full knowledge of the inherent risks--because of her commitment to living life and making the most of every opportunity that God has given her. She faced this challenge as she does everything--with a big smile and an abiding faith. I am happy to report that in the months following the surgery, she has recovered very well and hasn't missed a beat. As this House honors our nation's mothers, I would like to say a special thank you to my mother, not just for the blessing that she has been to me and our family, but for being a shining example of a life well-lived. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this Resolution for mothers everywhere, and I yield back.