Parker Griffith

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of former Congressman and the 21st Secretary of the Army John McHugh. In more than 8 terms in Congress, Secretary McHugh has served as a steadfast and reliable advocate for our men and women in uniform. His drive and determination for our soldiers have played a major role in the way we repay our troops. Throughout his career, Secretary McHugh has always sought new ways to serve his country, and America is better for it. Over the last eight years, he has made fourteen official visits to Iraq, Afghanistan, and multiple other deployed locations to visit United States forces. In his own words, Secretary McHugh has inspired many. Earlier this year, he summed up perfectly what it means to be an American--in uniform or civilian--when he asked, ``What else can I do to serve?'' The United States Army has been placed in the capable hands of Secretary John McHugh, and I wish him the best of luck in his new position.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a friend, Mr. Bobby Hayden, a scholar, a soldier, a community advocate and a family man. Bobby Hayden, who resides in my district, was one of the first African Americans on a Presidential Honor Guard. He took the first watch over President Kennedy's body. He became active in our community and has added a great deal to his alma mater, Alabama A&M. As a middle and high school teacher, Bobby has spent decades of his life shaping the lives of north Alabama's youth. He has been at the forefront of many activities, specifically working to preserve historical landmarks in the Tennessee Valley. Mr. Hayden is a dedicated Alabama A&M alumnus, a Bulldog, and has held several positions in the college alumni association. He was inducted into the Alabama A&M Sports Hall of Fame and currently serves as the secretary for the Hall of Fame Association. It is a privilege for me to mention his name on the floor, as he has gone somewhat unrecognized as one of the first African Americans on President Kennedy's Honor Guard, standing with the family through the ordeal.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Amelia Platts Boynton. Mrs. Boynton is member of the civil rights group that formulated strategies for nonviolent social resistance in Alabama and is most widely known as an activist and organizer for the march over the Edmond Pettus Bridge in Selma, AL. Mrs. Boynton was a proud supporter of Dr. Martin Luther King and used her home in Selma as a center for Selma's civil rights battles, which was used by King and his lieutenants, Congressmen and attorneys from around the nation, to plan the demonstrations known as the ``Selma to Montgomery Marches''. On March 7, 1965, during a march which later became known as Bloody Sunday, Boynton was viciously attacked. Following that event, her character and courage helped lead to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Mrs. Boynton is Vice Chairwoman of the International Schiller Institute. She is a 98-year-old author, playwright, speaker and organizer, speaking out publicly for justice, and inspiring people of all ages, nations, and backgrounds. Madam Speaker, I wish to congratulate Amelia Boynton on a remarkable career and a heroic life and wish her the best as she continues to be an influential civil rights pioneer.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the career of Dr. Tom Richardson. Dr. Richardson is the Chief Scientist and Technical Director at the Missile and Space Intelligence Center in Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. Tom began his career at MSIC in 1974 working primarily in the areas of sensor data analysis, weapon systems stimulations, and analysis methodologies. Over his tenure, he has held supervisory duties for several organizations involved with analyses of air defense, and theater and strategies ballistic missile defense systems. Dr. Richardson has received the DIA Director's Award for Exceptional Civilian Service and the National Military Intelligence Association John T. Hughes Award. His leadership and service to the Defense Intelligence Agency has been exceptional and he has represented North Alabama well. Madam Speaker, I wish to congratulate Dr. Tom Richardson on a phenomenal career and wish him continued success.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the American people about the current situation in the Middle East. On September 28, Iran launched and tested a Shahab-3 missile which has a range of 1,200 kilometers and puts American soldiers and our allies in the Middle East in danger. These tests must be met with stern opposition. Having recently returned from Israel and Egypt, I had the opportunity to meet with officials and members of the defense community who are directly involved in their missile defense decisions. I was able to see firsthand the stability and security that American missile systems provide for our allies. Recently, the administration announced a change of plans, eliminating missile silos in Poland and radar in the Czech Republic, which raised concerns both in our missile defense community and among our international allies. Clearly this logic must be questioned as a successful launch of the long-range Shahab-3 missile shows that we must protect our allies in the region and, most importantly, the eastern United States. These Iranian tests demonstrate a need for ground-based interceptors, if not on Poland, then on the eastern coast of the United States. American safety and security is essential to our soldiers abroad and citizens at home. Because national defense is a nonpartisan issue, we in Congress will work together to make sure our decisions are well thought out and executed.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Mr. Speaker, I, too, rise in honor of the life and the experiences of Helen Keller. Born in my district in Tuscumbia, the Helen Keller birthplace is a national shrine visited by thousands of Americans every year. She was a remarkable woman, had great courage, and, with the help of Anne Sullivan, learned to overcome both deafness and blindness. She said about her disability that the loss of sight separated her from objects but the loss of hearing separated her from people. She overcame these with great courage and determination, and her teacher and her constant companion, Anne Sullivan, were heroes for all of America and continue to be heroes today. Always a constant role model for people with disabilities in America and around the globe, Mrs. Keller was a friend of many of our world leaders, recognized, as has been said, as one of the greats of the 20th century. Soon we will celebrate her life and her experiences by unveiling a statue, and we believe that she will be permanently enshrined in the history of the life of America. Her great courage and great determination are qualities that we certainly admire and can use to this day. I appreciate so much Governor Riley of Alabama and the entire State of Alabama in their dedication and their perseverance in getting the statue here and all the work that has gone into it. Our Alabama delegation here in the Congress as well as our Senators have taken part, and we appreciate that so much.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of someone who has played a large role in the development of north Alabama, Susie Hudson of Huntsville. Mrs. Hudson was known as a visionary and a brilliant businesswoman, but first and foremost she was known as a fighter. She fought for the well-being of her friends and family and for the revitalization of Huntsville, but her strongest battle was her fight with cancer. Susie died Tuesday, September 1, and she will be sorely missed. Mrs. Hudson was described as ``the jewel of Huntsville,'' but she was so much more than that. Her tireless work to create a more fluid learning environment at the University of Alabama-Huntsville has allowed the brightest minds our region has to offer to excel and give back to their community and their country. Mrs. Hudson moved to Huntsville in 1974 and honored her community with 35 dedicated years of commitment and service. She was the epitome of devotion to the people of North Alabama. On behalf of the Tennessee Valley, I respectfully rise in honor to pay tribute to Susie Hudson's life and her entire family.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Congressman Bill Hefner, who served North Carolina's eighth Congressional District for 24 years with distinction. In addition to his service in the United States House of Representatives, Mr. Hefner served as a Marshall County Commissioner in my home state of Alabama. He spent his later years in my hometown of Huntsville. Congressman Hefner was a fine example of a public servant. He fought for the interests of his constituents, bucking party lines time and time again in the process. He was a champion of our military, working tirelessly on behalf of our veterans to ensure they received the tools needed to do their jobs and the benefits earned through service. Congressman Hefner lived a full life, spending time in a myriad of positions from a Southern Baptist gospel singer to radio station owner. His dedication and commitment to public service made Alabama, North Carolina, Washington, DC, and our nation as a whole a better place, and he will be sorely missed. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and life of former Congressman Bill Hefner. General Leave

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, Mr. Aderholt and I rise today to recognize the Lady Rebels of West Morgan High School in Trinity, Alabama. In May, West Morgan's softball team captured the first Alabama State Championship for West Morgan in 42 years of athletic competition. West Morgan High School has always upheld the highest standards of excellence in all its endeavors, and this team of outstanding athletes is no exception. We commend the leadership of Principal Billy Hopkins and Coaches Keith Harris, Alesha Hutto, and Kenda Bradford on their successful careers with West Morgan High, and we look forward to the continuation of a tradition of solid and consistent performance in both academics and athletics. Madam Speaker, we congratulate each member of the dedicated Lady Rebels softball team--Hannah Harris; Haley Willingham; Madison Jones; Whitlee Potter; Hayden Hamby; Britanny Thompson; Ashley Hooper; Rachel Harbin; Brilley Stephenson; Hallie Cunningham; Lauren Seibert; Hannah Amos; Hannah Draper; Heather Amos; Mary Kelley; Chelsea Boston; Delissa Tidwell; Baylee Carpenter; Mikinzie Steele; Ashley Crow; Jamie Rohr; Katie Brazier; Alexis Casteel; Kimberlee Denard; Bari Jones; Kristen Parrish--and their staff for their commitment to achieving this championship.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Dr. Alma Montgomery Blackmon of Huntsville, an educator and mentor of fond memory to all she encountered. Dr. Blackmon passed away in June at the age of 87. Dr. Blackmon had an unrivaled blend of passion for students, education and music. All three of these areas played vital roles in her life's purpose. She was born and raised in Washington, DC, where she began her distinguished career as an educator. Her love for music blossomed as a child when she served as an organist for her church at age 10. Her love for music never faded, and she instilled a zeal for music in her students throughout her 42-year career as an instructor. She was a scholar, a musician and a community activist whose impact will not be forgotten, and she is deeply missed by all who knew her. Dr. Blackmon had a way with people that made personal interactions with her as harmonious as the music she played. Her influence will continue to flourish for generations to come through the love of music that her former students now share. On behalf of the Tennessee Valley, I respectfully rise in honor to pay tribute to a champion of American values.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Reverend Dr. Julius Richard Scruggs of the First Missionary Baptist Church in Huntsville, Alabama. This year he celebrates his 50th pastoral anniversary and his 32nd anniversary with First Missionary Baptist. Dr. Scruggs is a wonderful asset to the community and all of North Alabama. Rev. Dr. Julius Scruggs began his pastoral career at the age of 18 at Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Harvest, Alabama. He has been at First Missionary Baptist Church since 1977 and welcomed more than 3,000 new members into the congregation during that time. Under his leadership, the church formed teams that have improved the community of North Huntsville through scholarship funds, health and recreation clinics, and jail ministries. Dr. Scruggs has also personally overseen multiple projects with Habitat for Humanity that have directly benefitted his area. Rev. Dr. Scruggs' leadership has been undeniably advantageous for Missionary Baptist Church's growth and development. Because of his vision and enthusiasm, he is a perfect candidate for President of the National Baptist Convention. The convention is being held during the second week of September, and I am honored to declare my support for this remarkable gentleman from North Alabama. Madam Speaker, I wish to express my extreme gratitude to Dr. Scruggs for his service to our community. As a former recipient of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. award and as Vice President at Large of the National Baptist Convention, U.S.A., Inc., Dr. Scruggs serves as an example of leadership for us all. The Tennessee Valley appreciates his invaluable service in the ministry for half a century and his dedication to First Missionary Baptist Church in Huntsville for more than three decades.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Elder Robert E. Wilson of Madison, Alabama, whose energy and enthusiasm rejuvenated the Presbyterian Church in North Alabama and engaged them in new and purposeful initiatives. To honor Bob Wilson's transformational leadership, the Fellowship Presbyterian Men are honoring him with a ``Bob Wilson Appreciation Day'' commemorating his efforts and accomplishments. The event will be held at Fellowship Presbyterian Church on Saturday, August 22, 2009. Mr. Wilson possesses a unique blend of humility and personal resolve. His gregarious personality makes him loved by everyone he meets, and he is relentlessly focused on achieving his goals for the church. His leadership is respected by members of the Presbyterian Church all over the country. In 2006, he was elected to the distinguished position of Vice Moderator for the 217th General Assembly. Robert Wilson's unyielding determination to advance the cause of the Presbyterian Church is a testament to his lifelong commitment to the institution. Madam Speaker, I wish to show my sincere gratitude to Bob Wilson for his longstanding devotion to his family, his church and the Tennessee Valley. Understanding that his leadership is a lesson to us all, I appreciate the values that he so strongly advocates.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. John L. Herndon, a man of exceptional character and integrity. Dr. Herndon has numerous talents and great ability, and he has served the people of Huntsville, most notably as minister of the Word and Sacrament at Fellowship Presbyterian Church. His dedicated service to the Fellowship Church family, the Presbyterian Church, and our community for more than 20 years is a strong testament to his passion for service and leadership. A life-long learner, Dr. Herndon has used his diverse interests to benefit people in many sectors. As a scientist, Dr. Herndon worked for the National Bureau of Standards and NASA, in addition to serving as Deputy Commissioner of Mental Health in Georgia. In 1985, Dr. Herndon was called to the ministry, and after obtaining a degree in Theology, he began a distinguished career at the Fellowship Church. Dr. Herndon has earned respect from the community for his unyielding resolve and dedication to youth development through justice and education. He was a court appointed juvenile advocate, police chaplain, and member of Governor's Task Force on Child Abuse and Youth Neglect. His work as a church and community leader is filled with faithful commitment to the training of young minds. Dr. Herndon's legacy grows with each passing day. I am honored to recognize a man of great service. Through his service to our community, he has had an invaluable impact on the lives he has encountered. Madam Speaker, I wish to express my sincere appreciation for Dr. John L. Herndon III and his faithful service to the congregation at Fellowship Church and the Tennessee Valley area.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Private Amos McKinney. Private McKinney was a Black Soldier who served the United States Army in a White Regiment during the Civil War. Amos McKinney started his service to our country at Rome, Georgia on December 15, 1863 as an Undercook in Company C of the 1st Alabama Calvary. Enlisting as a cook was the avenue to combat for many African American soldiers during the Civil War, and Private McKinney was no different. During his service, he was shot below the knee and also suffered several wounds to his chest before being mustered out of service on October 20, 1865 in Huntsville, Alabama. Unfortunately, history has forgotten many Black Soldiers who served the Union White Regiments during the Civil War. Driven by a firm belief in the Union's purpose, Private McKinney and others were willing to work their way up the ranks so they could fight for the cause. Their perseverance and courage should not be lost. In recognition of Private McKinney's service, there will be a dedication ceremony on July 11, 2009 for a memorial established in his honor. Amos McKinney married Melissa Ann McAfee Pearson after the war, and together they had 9 children. Private McKinney's courage is surely an inspiration to the family he left behind, and his bravery is a testament to the power of an unyielding American spirit and personal resolve. Madam Speaker, I stand to recognize an American soldier and to extend my gratitude for the service of Private Amos McKinney and those who served beside him. I commend the McKinney family and the historians of my district whose efforts made this recognition possible.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. David Muhlendorf, President and CEO of Paper and Chemical Supply, on his recent appointment to the U.S. Chamber Board of Directors. Throughout the years, David's dedication and commitment to the success of north Alabama have directly contributed to my district's economic success. Small business has always served to be the backbone of our nation, and Mr. Muhlendorf's presence on the national economic stage will prove to be a great benefit to our country. Earlier this year, David was named the 2008-2009 Shoals Citizen of the Year for his development work with the Chamber of Commerce of Northwest Alabama. He has also worked tirelessly for the area's education system with the Northwest Shoals Community College Board of Directors, for our local charities with the Shoals United Way, and for my State's economic development with the Business Council of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I wish to congratulate Mr. David Muhlendorf for his new appointment and thank him for his diligent and determined work for the Tennessee Valley, the State of Alabama and our country.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate this difficult situation. I believe that as the budget was formed and the decisions were made, North Korea was not as aggressive, nor was Iran. I stand in support of the Franks amendment. I share the gentlelady's concern that accountability needs to be increased; but in this time of increasing threat, I would prefer that we err on the side of the Franks amendment, even if we must attach certain conditions to it in conference. But I would urge Members to support it.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I rise today in support of my amendment in the en bloc amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act. This amendment will require the Quadrennial Defense Review to be completed every 4 years to examine the national defense strategy, the force structure, the force modernization plans, infrastructure, budget plan and other elements of the defense program to determine our strategy for the next 20 years. Additionally, my amendment reinforces the importance of the Nuclear Posture Review, which addresses the role that missile defense capabilities and conventional strike forces play in determining the role and size of nuclear forces. These reviews are an essential element of our national security perspective as are the Ground-based Midcourse Defense missile program, the Kinetic Energy Interceptor, the Multiple Kill Vehicle and the Airborne Laser program. The Department of Defense is aware that the Ground-based Midcourse Defense, the GMD, is the only fielded and operational capability that can defend the U.S. against long-range ballistic missiles. However, the current budget cuts of $524 million from the program, deploying only 30 of the 44 GMD interceptors that were scheduled, we believe this logic should be questioned given the events occurring in North Korea and Iran. Furthermore, we should reconsider the stop work order for the kinetic energy interceptor. This project is an essential part of our boost- phase ballistic missile approach, and I urge my colleagues to continue to support its development. Congress should also support the continued development of the multiple kill vehicle. As rogue nations continue to advance their missile defense capabilities, multiple kill vehicle technology will be required to destroy countermeasures, warheads and ultimately the missiles shot from our enemies. I support all of these projects because they are a deterrent to our enemies and they are the programs our warfighters in the field require. As we look at the missile tests and balance of power occurring in the Middle East and East Asia, this is not the time to reduce our missile defense budget and cut back on these programs. North Korea plans to launch a long-range Taepodong-2 missile in July, and is only a few years away from deploying a missile capable of hitting the United States. We must prepare for the development and the deployment of more advanced technologies by our adversaries. These missile systems should all be considered essential elements. I urge passage of this amendment.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Coach Jack Doss and the S.R. Butler High School basketball team from Huntsville, Alabama. Along with assistant coaches Charlie Steele, Terry Mitchell, Arthur Wesley and Michael Freeman, Coach Doss led the Rebels to a second straight 5A State Basketball Championship and Butler's fourth of the past six years. Though one of the smallest high schools in Division 5A, S.R. Butler High School has always upheld the highest standards of excellence in all its endeavors, and this team of outstanding athletes is no exception. I commend the leadership of Principal Jacqueline Wyse and Coach Doss on their successful careers with Butler High and look forward to the continuation of a tradition of solid and consistent performance in academics and athletics. Madam Speaker, I congratulate Coach Doss and the entire S.R. Butler High School administration and staff for their commitment to achieving this championship.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding career and contributions of Lt. Col. Kenneth A. Reiman. Lieutenant Colonel Reiman is retiring from his most recent position as Deputy Director of the Test Support Group for the Missile Defense Agency at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. Prior to assuming his current position, Lt. Col. Reiman was Program Director of the Missile Defense Agency's Ground-based Midcourse Defense Program for Ground and Flight Test Execution. He has served 23 years as an Air Force officer and has spent a lifetime serving his country. Lt. Col. Reiman has always played an important role in the development of North Alabama's missile defense community and our nation's defense. His dynamic leadership and exceptional technical skills directly resulted in the Missile Defense Agency's successful execution of its $2 billion per year flight and ground test programs. Reiman's distinguished career reflects great credit upon himself, the United States Air Force, the Department of Defense, and the Tennessee Valley. Madam Speaker, on behalf of everyone in North Alabama, I rise to express my gratitude to Lt. Col. Kenneth A. Reiman for his many years of service to the United States of America.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Mr. Chairman, I rise to enter into a 2-minute colloquy with the chairman. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for allowing me. I rise from Alabama's 5th District, the birthplace of NASA and of the space program. I, too, am concerned, but I appreciate very much the hard work the chairman and Ranking Member Wolf have entered into in trying to preserve the NASA budget. However, the decrease in funding is of some concern to us. The Aries 1 and the Aries 5 will represent what the Saturn was to us 50 years ago with spaceflight and in putting a man on the Moon. This is not just a matter of jobs; it's a matter of international security and of national pride. I believe, after the Augustine Commission is done, we'll find that the NASA program is underfunded and that the funding will return to a level that will put us on the Moon in 2020 and that will return us to manned spaceflight in 2015.

Mr. GRIFFITH. I appreciate those comments. Mr. Chairman, we will certainly work hand in hand with the committee. I will say one final thing, which is that the human spaceflight community--the scientists who are involved in that--is a culture, and that culture cannot be interrupted and put back together again as though it were a puzzle. So I appreciate so much your efforts, and I appreciate the wording in this bill. Thank you for allowing me to enter into a colloquy with you.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of SSG Jeffrey Alan Hall. On June 1, 2009, Jeffrey Hall and two other soldiers were killed in Afghanistan by a roadside bomb west of Kabul. Jeffrey was part of the U.S. Army's 2nd Battalion in the 10th Mountain Division and had achieved his lifelong goal of earning the distinction of serving as a U.S. Army Ranger. As our nation and my community struggles with this sudden loss, I would like to pause and recognize Staff Sergeant Hall and the ultimate sacrifice paid by him and his family. Jeffrey was an eight-year veteran of the United States Army, earning many well-deserved awards and decorations including two Army Commendation Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, a NATO Medal and a Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal. This was Jeffrey's third tour in Afghanistan. He was an American Hero who believed in his mission and told his father that this was a sacrifice he was willing to make to protect his country and the freedoms we enjoy. Jeffrey Hall was a soldier but he was also a loving son to his parents Charles and Annette, a devoted husband to his wife Allison and eleven months ago became a father to Audrey Faith. Jeffrey loved life and his family and the outpouring of love and affection by his family and friends is the real tribute to the man that he was and the life that he led. Staff Sergeant Hall is an inspiring example that we can all look up to and aspire to be like. He put the safety of all Americans before his own, and the people of this nation will be forever grateful. He motivated and inspired those around him and will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and by those who never had the honor and privilege of meeting him. Our country lost a great soldier and an even better son last Monday. All of us in north Alabama are deeply saddened by Jeffrey's passing. On behalf of the entire community in the Tennessee Valley, across Alabama and a grateful nation, I rise today to remember SSG Jeffrey Allen Hall and to pay tribute to his honor, his sacrifice and his memory.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Staff Sergeant Jeffrey Alan Hall. On June 1, 2009, Jeffrey was killed in action in Afghanistan. As north Alabama mourns this sudden, devastating loss, I would like to recognize Staff Sergeant Hall and his entire family's sacrifice. Jeffrey was an 8-year veteran of the United States Army, earning many well-deserved awards and decorations, including two Army Commendation Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, a NATO Medal, and a Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal. Staff Sergeant Hall is an inspiring example of someone we can all look up to and inspire to be like. He put the safety of all Americans before his own, and the people of this Nation will be forever grateful. He motivated and inspired those who were around him, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him, as well as those who never had the honor and privilege of meeting him. Our country has lost a great soldier and an even better son. All of us in north Alabama are deeply saddened by the loss of Jeffrey. On behalf of the entire community in the Tennessee Valley and across Alabama and the Nation, I rise today to join Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, the United States Army, and the family of Jeffrey Hall in honoring his service, memory, and life.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 203rd Military Police Battalion of Athens, Alabama. On June 21st, the 203rd Battalion will depart for Fort Bliss to train before leaving for Iraq. The 203rd Military Police Battalion has provided community service support to the Athens Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP) for more than a decade, specifically with the annual RSVP Picnic in the Park. Without their assistance, this special event for RSVP volunteers would not be possible. The Picnic in the Park will be especially meaningful this year as the 203rd prepares to deploy. We enjoy our way of life and the freedoms we have because of groups like the 203rd Military Police Battalion. Their years of sacrifice on both local and national levels serve as an extraordinary example of leadership for us all. Madam Speaker, I wish to express my extreme gratitude for the 203rd Military Police Battalion's service to my district and to honor them as they leave home in defense of our Nation.

Mr. GRIFFITH

Mr. GRIFFITH. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.