Christopher Gibson

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of peace in the Middle East. Peace for our allies and friends in the region. Peace for the Iranian people. And sustainable peace for the United States. Throughout my 29 years of military service, I served during war and peace. Throughout the Cold War, we constantly trained to respond to and combat the greatest nuclear threat the world has ever faced: the Soviet Union. I deployed to Germany on what was effectively the front line, within walking distance of this grave threat. Afterwards, I fought in Desert Storm, with the Iraqi chemical and biological arsenal a threat at any moment. Finally, I deployed several more times to Iraq during the most recent war, fighting for stability against Islamic terrorists bent on death, chaos, and destruction. In each of these experiences, I found the best and worst in humanity, and was always working towards lasting peace and stability. I now have the honor to serve in the United States Congress, where I seek to prevent engagements in various regional conflicts, including those in Libya and Syria. I seek to bring a more democratic process to deploying American personnel into combat, which was the intent of the original 1973 War Powers Act. I take these positions because I know that the best and most responsible means of preventing conflict, or the exacerbation of conflict, is through strong diplomacy. Today, I continue to fight to keep the United States out of another war. I work to protect and keep safe our allies and friends throughout the Middle East and the world. This is why I say no to an agreement that will only make us and our allies less safe in both the short and long term. The Iranian regime is the same regime that calls for death to America and Israel. This is the same regime engaged in destabilization of Iraq, Afghanistan, Yemen, and elsewhere. This is the same regime that funds the Assad regime in Syria which has used Weapons of Mass Destruction, killing hundreds of thousands of people. This is the same regime that funds terrorist organizations like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. This is the same regime that directly funded, trained, and engaged in combat alongside radical Shiite militias that fought, injured, and killed American service men and women, including those under my command. This deal not only allows, but in fact tacitly approves, Iranian access to modern conventional arms within five years. Within eight years, it lifts the ban on access to ballistic missile technology. The deal also allows Iran to immediately access tens of billions of dollars through sanctions relief, ensuring the modernization of its depleted conventional military and support for its world-wide terror network. The deal seeks to eliminate the legislative sovereignty of the United States Congress, our states, and our municipalities when it comes to key aspects of our foreign policy. The deal does not permit anytime, anywhere inspections. The deal does not outline how inspections will take place. The deal does not stop nuclear research and development in Iran. The deal does not prohibit Iran from seeking and obtaining nuclear weapons either through cheating or after the expiration of the terms. I am afraid that this deal could hasten the pace to war, not end the threat of it. But this can be prevented. We can return to the negotiating table and engage from a position of strength. We can do so through stronger diplomacy; a more credible and consistent military posturing that does not appear haphazard and reactive; we can enact stronger sanctions, if needed; and finally, we must be willing to stick to a true red line and say no to a bad deal. I plead with my colleagues in the United States Congress, as well as President Obama, Secretary Kerry, and others in this Administration: do not go ahead with this ill-fated and weak deal that hurts our national and international security.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the hard working and dedicated staff of the Columbia County Department of Social Services. The good people of Columbia County, New York are well served by this outstanding group of high minded professionals whose sole purpose is to serve the public. Rarely do these fine individuals receive any sort of public acclaim; nonetheless, they remain steadfast in their commitment to providing timely and effective human services. Whether it be providing funding for fuel oil to needy families each winter, finding shelter for families during hard times, protecting children from the horrors of child abuse, or reuniting a family torn apart by the ravages of substance abuse, Commissioner Jablonka and his staff are relentless in their pursuit of the public welfare. Commissioner Jablonka, who began his illustrious career in public service as a DSS caseworker more than forty years ago, is blessed to have an outstanding staff assisting him. Deputy Commissioner Michelle Ublacker has made a tremendous contribution to the agency in the few short months since coming on board. She brings with her a strong background in human services, years of experience as a DSS caseworker and a tenacious work ethic. Her commitment to excellence is apparent to all who serve with her. Under Michelle is an exemplary group of Directors who oversee the day to day operations of the agency: Lynn Kutski, Judy Richards, Deborah Amerling and Valerie Caruso make up this exceptional team and together they have worked hard to help move the agency forward into the twenty-first century. With leadership such as this, it is easy to see how the Department continues to excel in its efforts to serve our community. And finally, Mr. Speaker, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the most important group of individuals who contribute to the success of Columbia County's Department of Social Services--the caseworkers, investigators and the clerical and legal staffs who are the backbone of the agency. They lead the way in the ongoing struggle to end poverty, child abuse, substance abuse, and domestic violence. They protect the young and the old alike, and they do so without fanfare. But today we acknowledge our caseworkers and thank them for all that they do. May God bless each member of this team.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor John K. Coutant, who passed away on June 19, 2015, at the young age of 69. John was the quintessential community servant. Born in Kingston in 1945, he graduated from Kingston High School and Dutchess Community College. He worked in the automobile industry for several decades, including founding Kingston Auto Supply and being recognized twice for having the top sales in the country. Very active in the community, John also served in several organizations and on the town board. It was as town supervisor that John left his greatest mark. His vision for a better town led to many accomplishments, including solar energy projects at the town hall and the landfill. John's outstanding reputation and popularity was a direct result of always being there for any constituent in need and of his inclusive style of governance of giving every citizen a voice. I am proud to have had the opportunity to know and work with John. He leaves behind an impressive legacy of service that has made his community a better place to live. May God bless John Coutant and his entire family.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 6 on behalf of the many Americans who have been impacted by Lyme disease and other tickborne diseases. Lyme disease is rapidly becoming a public health scourge in the U.S. We simply need to do better at prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. H.R. 6 includes the text of the Tick-Borne Disease Research Accountability and Transparency Act, which is a truly constituent- driven effort and represents a significant step forward in bringing solutions for our chronic Lyme sufferers. I would like to thank the physicians, the patient advocates, and researchers that helped in this process, including Dr. Richard Horowitz, Pat Smith, David Roth, Jill and Ira Auerbach, Holly Ahern, Chris Fisk, and other Lyme advocates across the nation, including Representative Chris Smith of New Jersey and my coauthor and friend, Representative Joe Courtney of Connecticut. Finally, I would like to thank Chairman Upton, Ranking Members Pallone and DeGette, and their dedicated committee staff for working tirelessly to include members' input and manage an open, bipartisan process for this important legislation. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the permanent reauthorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, an important program that benefits every American. LWCF was founded 50 years ago to utilize revenue from energy projects to fund important conservation efforts. In total, it has conserved approximately 7 million acres of land and water resources, including mountains, forest, waterways, nature trails, and other beautiful aspects of our natural environment. In New York's 19th District, for example, several different projects have benefited, including the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance's Community Forest and, potentially soon, a new improvement to the Appalachian Trail. Unfortunately, this critical program expires in about 100 days, potentially jeopardizing important funding for many local communities, States, and private organizations. We simply can't let that happen. We must permanently reauthorize this important program.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Army Sergeant Major Ed Olender, who passed away earlier this year at the age of 91. For those who knew Ed, he was a humble and dedicated family man, neighbor, and friend. He was well-known around Tillson, New York, in having given his work in the post office, in his extensive volunteer service, in his service as a firefighter, and as a life member of the American Legion and the VFW. However, without knowing him well, you would never guess the rest of his life story. Born in Dickinson, New York, in 1923, Ed joined the Army at the age of 17. He served in combat in the Pacific in World War II, including earning a Bronze Star for his actions in defending Hawaii during the attack on Pearl Harbor and earning a Purple Heart in Luzon. He also served in combat in both Korea and Vietnam, earning a second Purple Heart and various other awards and commendations. He retired in 1974 as a command sergeant major. He earned the Silver Star and also earned the Combat Infantryman Badge three times. Ed was predeceased by his wife of 53 years, June, and they had three children, two grandchildren, and three stepgrandchildren. I rise today to commemorate this great American hero--a humble but incredible example for all of us. May God bless Sergeant Major Olender and his entire family.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize WKIP, a news radio station serving the residents of New York's Hudson Valley. This year marks the station's 75th anniversary of operations, and I congratulate them on reaching this impressive milestone. On Friday, June 5 WKIP will celebrate its anniversary with a live broadcast from the Henry A. Wallace Center at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in historic Hyde Park. As area residents gather for this special event, I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the staff, hosts, and management of WKIP for their commitment to our community. We rely on locally-operated media organizations like WKIP to keep us informed of news and weather and to partner with our small businesses to help them grow. This radio station is an important component of the social fabric in our region, broadcasting announcements from government officials, emergency information, and valuable updates on public events, school activities, local sports, and ways that we can be helpful to our neighbors. WKIP programming helps bring people together, and I am proud to recognize this organization's many contributions to community life and the economy in the Hudson Valley over the past 75 years. WKIP listeners are also provided a daily platform for the exchange of ideas, which is crucial to the health of our democracy. I am deeply grateful to WKIP for carrying out this mission and for inviting me to be a part of its programming as I endeavor to represent the residents of the 19th District of New York. Mr. Speaker, I want to send my best wishes to everyone assembled for the WKIP anniversary gala in Hyde Park.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Staff Sergeant Robert H. Dietz who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his courageous actions during World War II. Sergeant Dietz hailed from Kingston, New York, a proud and historical city in New York's 19th Congressional District. In March 1945, Sergeant Dietz led his squad on an attack of a heavily fortified German position. Under heavy machine gun fire, Sergeant Dietz advanced forward, clearing enemy obstacles, providing a path for the men of his squad and platoon. This selfless act enabled the success of this attack; but in the process, Sergeant Dietz lost his life. With strong local support, we submitted a bill to rename the post office in Kingston for Sergeant Dietz. Yesterday that bill passed in the Oversight and Government Reform Committee. I thank Chairman Chaffetz, his committee, and the entire New York delegation for their strong support; and I look forward to its passage in the full House soon. Mr. Speaker, as we approach Memorial Day weekend, we pause to remember Sergeant Dietz and all those men and women who lost their lives in defense of our freedoms.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mercedes Santana, a talented young lady and athlete. Born on August 30, 2003, Mercedes has studied the martial art of Tae Kwon Do at Mechelle's Way Tae Kwon Do in Schenectady, New York for the last several years. During this time, she successfully earned the level of Red Belt, and she continues to pursue her goal of earning a Black Belt as well as completion of martial arts weapons training. Mr. Speaker, in July of 2013, Mercedes attended and competed in the 2013 Junior Olympics, held in Detroit, Michigan. At this event Mercedes earned a Bronze Medal in Tae Kwon Do, a feat which currently makes her the only Junior Olympian in Schenectady, New York. This accomplishment has proven Mercedes to be an impressive role model for her peers and fellow New Yorkers. Outside of Tae Kwon Do, Mercedes holds a diverse range of interests, including playing the drums, painting and reading. Mr. Speaker, the Junior Olympics have been held over 30 times since their inception in 1967. The event has included over 20 sports in this time span and the 2013 event alone had over 12,000 athletes in attendance. By winning a Bronze Medal, Mercedes has truly proven herself to be an impressive student of Tae Kwon Do and overall athlete. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other congressional colleagues join me in recognizing Mercedes Santana for her tremendous accomplishments, and to encourage Mercedes to continue to inspire those around her.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Harold W. McGraw III on his upcoming retirement from the board of directors of McGraw Hill Financial, the company that his great-grandfather founded in 1888. Known to his friends as Terry, he joined the company in 1980, holding a number of leadership positions before being named chief executive officer in 1998--the third McGraw to hold that position. During his tenure as CEO, Terry led the company's transformation from education and publishing into a credit ratings, benchmarks and portfolio-based company, with best-in-class brands that include Standard & Poor's, Platts and J.D. Power. Though he retired as CEO in 2013, Terry remains active in the global business community and is a well-known voice in various key economic fields. In addition to chairing the International Chamber of Commerce, the U.S. Trade Representatives' Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations, and the U.S. Council for International Business and the Emergency Committee for American Trade, Terry also is a former Chairman of the Business Roundtable and the U.S.-India Business Council. He serves as a member of the board of directors of United Technologies and of Phillips 66, chairman of the Emergency Committee for American Trade (ECAT), and a member of the Business Council. The company has always been a fixture in the New York City philanthropic community and, under Terry's leadership, employees have donated countless volunteer hours for causes and programs around the city. This has included everything from park clean-ups with the New York Restoration Project to reading to underserved elementary school children as part of the Read Ahead partnership. The company has provided scores of grants to arts and cultural venues as well. Terry has devoted himself personally to several programs with which he has particularly deep relationships. He greatly increased corporate support--and personal contributions--to the New York Public Library, where he also serves as a Trustee. He continued the long tradition of McGraw family and company support for Hartley House, a nonprofit community center serving the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of New York City. Terry also initiated the company's partnership with the South Bronx-based Morris High School Educational Campus, taking an active personal interest in the school by meeting and mentoring its students, speaking at events and launching an annual scholarship program. Mr. Speaker, Terry McGraw has distinguished himself throughout his career as a skilled and savvy businessman, as well as a generous and civic-minded philanthropist. I ask my colleagues to support me in congratulating him on his countless achievements during a remarkable career.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, tomorrow, I will be voting against H.R. 589, the so-called Student Success Act. Although there are some positive reforms regarding empowerment of local schools that my constituents support in the bill, major problems with the bill remain. For example, sadly, we have done nothing to roll back the onerous high-stakes testing regime that has led to a ``teaching to the test'' culture in our schools, and I want my parents, teachers, administrators, and students to know that I am listening and taking action. I offered a bipartisan amendment to roll back to pre-No Child Left Behind levels testing requirements. Essentially, it would have cut Federal testing requirements in half that we hope would have been a catalyst for States to cut their tests as well, but for the second straight year, that amendment has been ruled out of order, despite the fact that this is so important to the American people. The fight continues. As this bill moves to the Senate, we have allies there that are interested in empowerment and properly resourcing schools, and I look forward to working with them to get in the bill that the American people will support and we can enact.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, on roll call no. 51; 52; 53 H.R. 361, the Medical Preparedness Allowable Use Act; H.R. 623, the Social Media Working Group Act; H.R. 615, the Department of Homeland Security Interoperable Communications Act. Due to inclement weather, I was not present for the vote series on Monday, February 2, 2015. Had I been present, I would have voted AYE.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people in New York's--9th District to express our sincere appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices of Kenneth B. Hauck. Kenneth B. Hauck selflessly and courageously served in the United States Army between October 1942 and May 1946. During his period of service Kenneth B. Hauck participated in World War II, where he fought in the Battle of the Bulge with Company B, 112th Infantry Regiment and was a Prisoner of War. His personal sacrifice and steadfast loyalty during this time go unparalleled. For his service he was awarded the American Campaign Medal, EAME campaign medal, World War II Victory Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. It is an honor to know that such impressive and dedicated men and women like Kenneth B. Hauck are willing to sacrifice so much in the name of freedom. It is my honor to recognize and thank Kenneth B. Hauck for his exemplary service to our nation.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, on roll call no. 555, I was unavoidably detained on official business. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Major Curt Owens for his past two years of exemplary dedication to duty and service as an Army Congressional Fellow and Congressional Liaison for the Chief of Army Reserve. I am grateful that he will continue to serve the Army and Congress in his new assignment as a legislative liaison in the Programs Division of the Office of the Chief, Legislative Liaison. We wish him well in his new position. A native of Tallahassee, Florida, Major Owens earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business at Florida State University and was commissioned an infantry officer in the Army Reserve. He has earned advanced degrees in management and legislative affairs. Curt has served in a broad range of assignments during his 20 years of service as a citizen soldier. As a lieutenant, he served as a rifle platoon leader in the 100th Infantry Battalion during combat operations in Iraq. As a captain, he served as an operations officer in a combined joint special operations task force, commanded a basic combat training company, and served as platoon trainer at the basic officer leadership course, 11th Infantry Regiment, Fort Benning, Georgia. In 2013, following assignments as a battalion operations officer and executive officer with 1st Brigade, 98th Division, Major Owens was selected as an Army Congressional Fellow and assigned as the Defense Fellow in my office. In this role, Curt served as policy advisor on all matters relating to defense and national security. He provided me with candid advice and became a trusted source of counsel and productivity to my office. After this, he served as a legislative liaison in the Office of the Chief of Army Reserve. In this capacity, Curt represented the Chief of Army Reserve directly with the Senate and House Armed Services and Appropriations Committees to educate and inform Senators, Representatives, and staff on critical Army Reserve issues and programs. Throughout his twenty year career, Major Curt Owens has made positive impacts on the careers and lives of his soldiers, peers, and superiors. I am grateful that he has chosen to continue to serve as an Army leader. I join my colleagues today in honoring his dedication to our Nation and invaluable service to the United States Congress as an Army congressional liaison. Curt is accustomed to working long hours in his congressional relations work. So let me also acknowledge Curt's wife Allison, and their sons Grayson, Carter and Brady, thank them for their sacrifices and wish them all the best for continued success in the future.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Land and Water Conservation Fund. This landmark legislation was initially passed in 1964, permanently paving the way for the protection and growth of our Nation's natural resources. Mr. Speaker, New York's 19th Congressional District is home to some of the most amazing scenery in the Nation. Constituents in our district can walk and bike in the Hudson and Mohawk Valleys; they can hike through the Catskill Mountains and paddle along the streams that feed into the Hudson River. I'm proud to say my constituents know how important it is to preserve and protect our land. The Land and Water Conservation Fund has been a tremendous success for New York State. It has been estimated that outdoor recreational activity supports over 300,000 jobs for New York and that over 4 million New Yorkers participate in hunting, fishing, and viewing wildlife each year. Additionally, my district benefits from the Forest Legacy Program funded under the LWCF. This program helps States preserve and maintain their forest land. Mr. Speaker, next year, we will have the opportunity to reauthorize LWCF. I would encourage all my colleagues in the House and Senate to reflect on the legislation's success, recognize our Nation's legacy of historic beauty, and to support the reauthorization next year.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. So the issue is that here it is, the administration saying that they need a ground partner to conduct these air attacks, but we are not even going to have a ground partner for 6 to 8 months, and they are talking about launching airstrikes within a month. This is a problem. The other problem is these forces on the ground have not shown themselves to be militarily competent nor politically trustworthy. We should work politically in Syria. That is the second point. The third point is we ought to secure our borders, commonsense point. But look, they have expressed the desire to attack our country, and we need to protect ourselves from that. So empower the Iraqi Armed Forces and the Kurds, work politically to get a partner in Syria, and secure our borders. And reject this amendment, with all due respect.

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his strong leadership of our committee. I rise in opposition to the amendment. Certainly, the Islamic State is an evil organization and a threat to our country. There is no question on that. I saw that firsthand leading paratroopers in Iraq, al Qaeda in Iraq executing, at close range, Iraqis who were working with us just to provide for a better day for their people. This evil organization has to be defeated. The question is: How? Well, first of all, we always reserve the right to act in self- defense. If we learn of specific intelligence that the enemy is preparing, planning an attack on us, we always reserve that right. We will take action to protect our people. But, as the President reported when he spoke to the American people last week, the intelligence community, we do not have that specific intelligence at this moment that they are going to be able to strike our country. So then the question occurs again: What is the smartest way to deal with this threat? I maintain, based on my experience, escalating in Syria right now is not the best approach. We should instead implement a three-point plan. Number one, empowering the Iraqi Armed Forces and the Kurdish forces to defeat the Islamic State. We have seen in recent days, with our help, they have been begun to reverse some advances of the Islamic State, and they have a capacity. As was mentioned earlier, the big issue that they have is they weren't willing to fight and die for that Prime Minister. They didn't have the will to stand up because they didn't believe. Now we have had a new election. They are rallying around, attendant to their constitution, a new government, and they do need our support, and we should be standing there with them. Why is it so important that we do it that way? Well, our enemy, the Islamic State, is trying to frame this struggle as one, in their words, between the believers and the nonbelievers. There is certainly an element here, but it goes much broader than that. In the main, what is really at stake is what is happening to the mainstream Muslims in Iraq and Syria. Why this is so important is, when we help the Iraqi Army and the Kurdish forces to defeat militarily the Islamic State, that also lessens the ability of the Islamic State to recruit and to fundraise internationally. Long-term, that is what is key to success here. So, number one, empower the Iraqi Armed Forces and the Kurdish forces. Number two, we have not set the conditions for actions in Syria. There is no credible partner there. There is no political partner there, and that is really the issue. What we should be doing is working to compel--working with our friends and our neighbors in the region, other nations across the world, to compel the Government of Syria to get to some brokered agreement with the rebel forces, including what we would call the Free Syrian Army. From that foundation, we will be in a stronger place to complete the final destruction of the Islamic State. Here is the issue, the big idea that the administration is advancing right now. The big idea is that we need a ground element to support airstrikes. Now, given my military experience, I understand that and I actually agree with that point. But here is the point: What they are advancing today, what we have learned, is that, at the earliest, we would see a ground force in 6 to 8 months.

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, evidently I am not going to get any more time. I ask the gentleman from California (Mr. Garamendi) for 1 minute.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of thousands of Americans who have been impacted by Lyme disease and tick-borne illnesses each year, including in my district in upstate New York, where this is a public health scourge. This legislation is truly constituent-driven and represents a significant step forward in what has been an extensive process. For the past few years, I have worked with physicians, patient advocates, professional researchers, and patients and their families throughout New York and the United States on a bill that focuses on solutions. I am proud to be joined by two of my colleagues who have been national leaders on this issue: Chris Smith of New Jersey is our leader, who has, for several decades, been a tireless advocate for our sufferers, and Frank Wolf of Virginia, who has added his significant voice to this issue and has also made incredibly meaningful contributions to this bill and the cause. I thank them both. Likewise, I thank Dr. Richard Horowitz, Pat Smith, David Roth, Jill and Ira Auerbach, Holly Ahern, Chris Fiske, and other Lyme advocate leaders from Pennsylvania and from across the Nation for their significant and persuasive engagement and unyielding commitment to change the direction of U.S. policy to bring solutions and relief for our chronic Lyme sufferers. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to thank Chairman Upton, Chairman Pitts, their ranking members, and their dedicated committee staffs. Thank you all for your great work. In August of 2013, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that the number of Americans diagnosed with Lyme disease each year is now over 300,000, while other researchers, such as Holly Ahern, have shown that we are significantly underestimating the cases in the U.S. It is clear that the increase of Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases is rapidly becoming a public health crisis in the United States. While the CDC, NIH, and other Federal agencies have recognized this threat to public health, regrettably, we have made far too little progress in improving prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This legislation before us seeks to make a positive difference, prioritizing and coordinating Federal tick-borne disease research through an interagency working group made up of relevant Federal agencies as well as non-Federal partners, such as experienced physicians, researchers, patient advocates, and chronic Lyme disease patients themselves. The working group is tasked with ensuring interagency coordination, accountability, and transparency, minimizing overlap, examining research priorities, and ultimately making policy recommendations. The working group is required to reflect a broad spectrum of scientific viewpoints and ensure patients and their advocates have a seat at the table. The bill increases oversight and accountability over tick-borne research throughout the relevant Federal agencies, ensuring all stakeholders are situationally aware of all existing research before making policy recommendations. Importantly, this bill also requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services, informed by the working group report, to submit a strategic plan to Congress to improve patient outcomes to cure our chronic Lyme sufferers. This plan will include benchmarks to measure progress, ultimately ensuring we spend the taxpayer dollars wisely and find solutions and cures that are long overdue. Finally, this bill is dedicated to those chronic Lyme sufferers out there who have been ill for years, at times seemingly without hope, wondering if anyone in Washington was listening or cared. We hear you. We do care. Today we pass this legislation to help you get better. I urge my colleagues to support the bill.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address a solemn and pressing issue that unfortunately has not received the attention that is warranted. This issue is the illegal capture, transport, ongoing detainment, and upcoming trial of First Lieutenant Nadiya Viktorivna Savchenko of the Ukrainian Army by pro-Russian Ukrainian separatists and, now, the Russian Government. Lieutenant Savchenko, whose first name Nadiya means ``hope'' in Ukrainian, is a true patriot and hero. She was born in 1981 in what was then the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic and grew up in that Soviet Union-aligned Republic. At the early age of 16, 1 year younger than myself when I joined the United States military, Nadiya joined the Ukrainian Army as a radio operator and started an incredible and groundbreaking career in service to a free and independent Ukraine. Now 33, she has not only been trained as an elite paratrooper, she also became the first female air force pilot in the Ukrainian military. Her exemplary time in uniform includes service in Iraq between 2004 and 2008 as a member of Ukrainian peacekeeping troops, during which time she served alongside and earned the respect of U.S. personnel, including Special Operations Forces. In fact, her tour in Iraq overlapped with part of my own time serving in that theater. I personally know the hardships and exemplary work done by our coalition forces during that difficult period, including Nadiya's Ukrainian contingent. She has since become a national hero and icon, serving in the 3rd Army Aviation Regiment and being recognized by Ukrainian defense forces and the United Nations. Nadiya also became a leading national figure in the Euromaidan demonstrations, which led to the fall of President Viktor Yanukovych. After Yanukovych, pro-Russian forces began stoking anger and violence across Ukraine's eastern provinces and the Crimean Peninsula. Lieutenant Savchenko then joined one of many volunteer, pro-government units that were organized to supplement deployed government forces. As the leader in the Aidar Battalion, she served alongside Ukrainian military personnel and civilians alike to quell the Russian-supplied, - trained, -supported, and -supplemented separatist forces. On June 28, Nadiya was captured by the separatists. After several days of unknown whereabouts, she resurfaced in Russia in the custody of the Russian Government on charges of murdering two Russian journalists. Access to her by family and Ukrainian officials has been very limited, and calls for her release based on her illegal capture, transport, transfer, and detention have gone unanswered. This is unacceptable. As Americans, we must recognize those who have fought alongside us and those who have stood up for democracy and freedom across the globe. Furthermore, we cannot let international law and due process be violated by any entity or nation. For these reasons, I call on the United States Government and the United Nations to take immediate action to seek release of First Lieutenant Nadiya Viktorivna Savchenko. If she, a citizen of the sovereign state of Ukraine and a war hero, is to face trial, she must be granted the full ability to do so in an open, transparent, and unbiased venue such as through the international court system or be granted the privilege of a full and proper investigation by her own country. Lieutenant Savchenko deserves due process of law. I further call on Russia to comply with its international obligations and immediately release Nadiya Savchenko to her family or appropriate authorities.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the retirement of Command Sergeant Major Frank Wicks. Command Sergeant Major Wicks has served the people of New York and the United States admirably throughout his career. He will be missed. Born in Troy, New York, Command Sergeant Major Wicks entered the Army in November 1982 and attended Basic Training in Fort Dix, New Jersey, and advanced individual training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. His assignments include the 205th Support Group, 2nd Battalion 105th Infantry, Headquarters 42nd Infantry Division, Company A 204th Engineer Battalion, Headquarters 1st Battalion, 105th Infantry, 2nd Battalion 106th Regiment, 1st Battalion 108th Infantry, Headquarters 27th Brigade Combat Team, and Headquarters 53rd Troop Command. His Command Sergeant Major assignments include 2nd Battalion 106th Regiment, 2nd Battalion 108th Infantry in Utica, NY, 27th Infantry Brigade in Syracuse, NY, and the 53rd Troop Command, Valhalla, NY. Command Sergeant Major Wicks has served in every leadership position from Team Leader to Command Sergeant Major. He has also served as an Instructor at the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy. In October 2003, CSM Wicks mobilized and deployed as the 2nd Battalion 108th Infantry and Task Force Hunter Command Sergeant Major to the Sunni Triangle, Iraq, serving as the Senior Noncommissioned Officer in the conduct of combat and stability operations of the Task Force during Operation Iraqi Freedom II. His military education includes all four Noncommissioned Officers Development Courses culminating in his graduation from the Sergeants Major Academy in June of 2002. Command Sergeant Major Wicks has earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management from NYACK College. Command Sergeant Major Wicks' awards and decorations include: Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (with bronze oak leaf cluster), Army Commendation Medal (with 2 bronze oak leaf clusters), Army Achievement Medal (with bronze oak leaf cluster), Good Conduct Medal (2nd Award), Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (with 4 bronze oak leaf clusters), National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award), Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal (``M'' device 4th award, bronze hourglass), the NCO Professional Development Ribbon (with numeral 4), Army Service Ribbon, Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon, and the Combat Infantry Badge. Yet, Command Sergeant Major Wicks' career is much more than a list of accolades. While those are important and serve as a testament to his knowledge, drive, and continual self-improvement, more important are the lives across New York, the United States, and the world that Command Sergeant Major Wicks' has impacted for the better. On behalf of all those individuals, directly or indirectly, impacted by Command Sergeant Major Wicks throughout his career I express my deepest appreciation for his leadership and wish him and his family the best in their next endeavor.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Chair, I want to thank my friend Sean Patrick Maloney. We are working together on this amendment, and we are fighting for our constituents. We just came through last winter, one of the harshest winters for those in upstate New York, where we saw our gas and home heating prices rise. We saw our electricity prices double. And yet as my friend Mr. Maloney just pointed out, we see that FERC wants to continue on and has moved forward with this new capacity zone, which they claim is going to lead to more generation. But, look, these rising rates, they are not necessary. We already have interest in our region for more generation, and this is just more burden on our constituents. And if you take a look at how this is impacting across the area, this is hurting hardworking families. It is impacting small businesses. So we are talking about a loss of jobs, we are talking about heartache on families, all for something that is unnecessary. And, as Mr. Maloney pointed out, this is coming from FERC, which has really been unaccountable when it comes to our concerns. Mr. Maloney and I, our Governor, one of our Senators--we have had leaders at every echelon reach out to FERC and explain to them, especially given the harsh winter that we went through and the fact that it is unnecessary. This is tone-deaf and outrageous that they are going forward. We want to fight this. We thank the chairman and ranking member for their acknowledgement in the report language. Going forward, we think that will be helpful. But we need relief right now. We are asking for support for this amendment. We think this is the right thing to do. And I would ask all my colleagues to stand up. Let's fight for families. Let's fight for small business.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Winnakee Land Trust, an organization dedicated to preserving the beautiful history and nature of northern Dutchess County, New York. This Saturday, July 12, the Winnakee Land Trust will be celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary, marking a tremendous achievement in land conservation and care for New York's natural resources. Founded in 1989, the Winnakee Land Trust was born out of the desire of local Dutchess County residents to protect open spaces and agriculture. The name ``Winnakee'', meaning ``good land,'' comes from the name of a Native American tribe that roamed Dutchess County. In 2011, Winnakee earned accreditation from the Land Trust Alliance, a national conservation organization with high standards for membership. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, and as an Upstate New Yorker, I am honored to have the privilege of recognizing this great organization. The Winnakee Land Trust has worked hard to engage our community all over the region and build relationships with stakeholders in the towns and villages of Clinton, Hyde Park, Milan, Red Hook, Rhinebeck, and Tivoli, among others. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Winnakee again on twenty-five years of excellence. I look forward to attending their anniversary gala this Saturday, July 12. I urge my colleagues in the House and Senate, and all Americans, to look to their example as a beacon of historic land conservation in our great nation.

Mr. GIBSON

Mr. GIBSON. I thank my friend and colleague. Madam Chair, if another country gave arms to a rebel group or another country for the express purpose of attacking our country, we would view that act as an act of war. But for some reason, we don't hold ourselves to that same standard. If it is the intent of the administration to give arms to any group then, under our Constitution, the administration must first come here and debate it on the floor and get authorization from the people's representatives. So, Madam Chair, I oppose us getting involved in the Syrian civil war. I believe that there is more that we can do diplomatically to isolate the Assad regime, but I don't think giving arms to any rebel group is in our best interest. But most certainly, if that is ever to occur, there first has to be an authorization. So I urge my colleague to support this amendment.