Mike Gallagher

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I stand before you today in strong support of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022. This year's NDAA includes a top-line budget that restores funding for shipbuilding, procurement, missile defense, and a number of other priorities that will help ensure the national defense of our great Nation. The NDAA continues to support and improve the lives of those who sacrifice for our country on a daily basis by authorizing a military basic pay raise of 2.7 percent. The bill reinforces the committee's longstanding commitment to the military family by requiring DOD to increase parental leave, expand the in-home childcare pilot program, it improves support available to military families with special needs children, and provides comprehensive reform of DOD's family violence prevention and response program. It also requires the Department to standardize the definition of professional military education across the joint force. It requires DOD to report to Congress on the number of military personnel infected with COVID-19 at the 2019 World Military Games in Wuhan, China. It increases funding for COVID-19 vaccine research, while providing $35 million for research and treatment of Havana syndrome. Madam Speaker, this is an outstanding NDAA. I want to thank the chairman and ranking member for their tireless efforts in working together to preserve the bipartisan spirit of this committee. I also want to thank the chairwoman of the Military Personnel Subcommittee that I work with, Ms. Speier. Madam Speaker, this is a bill we can all be proud of.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the 20th anniversary of the Grand Opening of Uncle Mike's Bake Shoppe. For over 20 years, Mike and Mary Vande Walle and the Uncle Mike's Bake Shoppe team have provided exceptional service and award-winning baked goods for people throughout the State of Wisconsin. Starting from humble beginnings, Uncle Mike's opened their first store location in the City of De Pere on October 5 of 2001 and after three years of operation they quickly ran out of space. This gave the Vande Walle's the opportunity to open their second location in the Village of Suamico in 2004. As business continued to boom, Uncle Mike's opened a third location in the City of Green Bay in 2018 and purchased a production facility in Northeast Wisconsin that produces baked goods for each of their locations. Given the Uncle Mike's team's commitment to providing exceptional customer service and the high demand for their products, pop-up shops in Appleton and Milwaukee were constructed for customers to purchase some of the most popular items on the menu. I commend the dedication and hard work that has resulted in Uncle Mike's continued growth and success for over 20 years. Uncle Mike's Bake Shoppe has been the recipient of over 100 awards in the baking industry for its excellence in baking and cake decorating. Most notability in 2014, Uncle Mike's won Best Kringle in North America for their world-famous sea salt caramel pecan kringle. Uncle Mike's Bake Shoppe has grown to be one of the most popular and recognizable bakeries in Wisconsin due to its exceptional customer service, friendly staff, and high-quality products. Uncle Mike's is also known for their unwavering support of the surrounding communities through offering fundraisers to local school districts and supplying fresh-baked cream puffs for the Denmark FFA booth at the Brown County Fair. Since the loss of Uncle Mike in 2020, his spirit has continued to live on through his family where they have carried on his love for baking. As third- generation bakers, Mike and Mary Vande Walle made it their mission to provide quality products through old-fashioned baking methods with high-quality ingredients. Throughout the years, Mike and Mary passed down their expertise in old-fashioned baking to their children, Brittni and Nathan, so that they could continue the exceptional baking traditions that began in 1974 with Don and Norma Vande Walle at Mehlberg's Bakery in Shawano. I Invite all members of this body to join me in celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Uncle Mike's Bake Shoppe. I extend my sincerest congratulations to the Uncle Mike's team on this remarkable milestone and wish them success for many more years to follow. Uncle Mike's Bake Shoppe is a wonderful business in Northeast Wisconsin and is deserving of the highest degree of recognition.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Northeast Wisconsin's 2021 Veteran of the Year, Ryan Lonergan. His service on and off the battlefield, his dedication to fellow veterans, and his devotion to Wisconsin's 8th Congressional District makes him well- deserving of this recognition. The Northeast Wisconsin Veteran of the Year is chosen annually by a selection committee consisting of members from the veteran and civilian community. It recognizes veterans in Northeast Wisconsin who continue to demonstrate service, excellence, and dedication in all that they do. A native of Southeastern Wisconsin, Ryan served 6 years in the Army National Guard including a 2009 deployment to Iraq. During Ryan's service he received numerous medals and achievements, including but not limited to, the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star. Ryan's service to his fellow veterans and dedication to our country did not stop upon returning home. Ryan has been a tireless advocate and ally for veterans in the Fox Valley and Northeast Wisconsin. Every day he helps veterans transition to civilian life by providing crucial job and career preparation. Two incredible examples of Ryan's continued support of the veteran community include working with the Outagamie County Veteran Service Officer to find a home for a World War II veteran's Purple Heart and connecting the next of kin of a local Navy Seal with his ribbons and medals which included a Silver Star with Valor and Navy Seal Trident. Ryan has remained dedicated to creating and cultivating a strong veteran community in the Fox Valley. He plays a key role in organizing an annual archery event and has partnered with numerous local businesses to coordinate extraordinary experiences for our veterans. From his help with Wheels for Warriors to his Fragout Podcast, Ryan continues to advocate for his fellow veterans. Madam Speaker, I once again congratulate Ryan Lonergan for his service to Northeast Wisconsin and the veteran community, and on being the 2021 Northeast Wisconsin Veteran of the Year. Northeast Wisconsin can be proud of the many great veterans who call the 8th Congressional District home, and I urge all colleagues to join me in recognizing these outstanding men and women.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the 150th anniversary of the Great Peshtigo Fire. The deadliest fire in U.S. history, the Great Peshtigo Fire claimed nearly 2,000 lives and millions of acres of land across Northeast Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula. Today, we not only remember the lives lost in this blaze, but celebrate the resilience Wisconsinites showed in rebuilding their communities. The city of Peshtigo was founded in 1838. Adjacent to the western shore of Green Bay, surrounded by dense Wisconsin forest, and bisected by the Peshtigo River, Peshtigo became an immediate economic hub for logging and shipping. By 1871 it sustained the livelihood of thousands of families in Wisconsin and was the tenth most populous city in the state. October 8, 1871 may be often overlooked in American history, but to the citizens of Peshtigo and Northeast Wisconsin, it was a defining moment for generations. On that fateful night, the village of Peshtigo lost nearly half its residents, with many more traveling lumberjacks killed in the fire. Estimates believe that roughly 700 Peshtigo residents lost their lives as the city was consumed by flames. Hundreds more perished in the surrounding communities. Flames descended upon the city of Peshtigo so rapidly that it was described by eyewitnesses as a roaring tornado of unbearable intensity and heat. The Peshtigo River, which runs directly through the city, did little to stop the flames from darting over the waters, and survivors, realizing they were trapped, had no other choice but to leap into the river. Within hours, nearly the entire city was reduced to rubble. Though often overshadowed by the Great Chicago Fire which began the same night, the Great Peshtigo Fire claimed at least five times the lives and over 500 times the acreage. But in the face of this unprecedented destruction, the people of Peshtigo and the surrounding communities came together to rebuild and restore. Today, Peshtigo is a vibrant community with schools, parks, wineries, and museums, all held together by the grit and character of the Peshtigo people that has defined the city for generations. It is my hope that through this proclamation, the Great Peshtigo Fire will receive the proper recognition it deserves not only as a somber tragedy and the deadliest fire in U.S. history, but as a trial that displayed the tremendous resolve of the Wisconsinites who rebuilt the city of Peshtigo to even greater heights. Madam Speaker, I urge all Members of this body to join me in recognizing the 150th anniversary of the Great Peshtigo Fire of 1871.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the amendment, which I think would be very destructive. Earlier this year, the former head of Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Phil Davidson, warned that the Chinese Communist Party could make a move on Taiwan within the next 6 years. Within the next 6 years, we could be facing a crisis unlike anything we have seen in our lifetime. This assessment was concurred by the chief of naval operations, the commandant of the Marine Corps. And the idea that we are going to do an across the board 10 percent cut, an indiscriminate across the board 10 percent cut to the Pentagon, at a time when we are facing a serious national crisis, I think, makes absolutely no sense. The ranking member pointed out the irony and tragedy that the other side is proposing to spend $3.5 trillion on social welfare spending, and then telling us that we have an explosion in defense spending, when defense spending, as a percentage of GDP, is still at lows relative to what we spent during the Cold War. Does anyone seriously believe that by releasing a press release or engaging in a security partnership with the Taliban we somehow ended a war? Does anyone seriously believe that the struggle against Salafi jihadism is somehow over because we have surrendered in that struggle? Absolutely not. And the reason and the irony that defense spending has gone up, if you can even compare the Obama cut in real terms to the Reagan defense build-up, it is not because of missiles or ships or bombs, it is because of increasing personnel costs, right? It is healthcare and retirement costs. So as an empirical matter, what you are arguing is simply not true. As for spending too much money on defense, what costs a lot of money is when you stumble into war on someone else's terms, and the best way to do that is to project weakness. Weakness invites aggression. We can achieve peace only through strength.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I stand before you today in proud support of this bipartisan bill, which is a reflection of the hard work of both sides that went into this. This process remains some of the most gratifying work that we do in Congress and a testament to the way in which this institution can work when we put our mind to it. The FY22 NDAA includes a top-line budget that restores funding for shipbuilding, procurement, missile defense, and a number of other priorities that will help ensure the national defense of our great Nation. The bill that was voted out of committee continues to support and improve the lives of those who sacrifice for our country on a daily basis by authorizing a military basic pay raise of 2.7 percent. This bill reinforces the committee's longstanding commitment to the military family by requiring the Department of Defense to increase parental leave, expands the in-home childcare pilot program, and improves support available to military families with special needs children. This bill also addresses the threat of COVID-19 by prohibiting the use of DOD funds to conduct research, including biomedical, infectious disease, and genomic research in China or with any entity controlled by the Chinese Communist Party. It requires DOD to report to Congress on the number of military personnel infected with coronavirus at the 2019 Military World Games in Wuhan, China, and requires DOD and the Director of National Intelligence to assess the involvement of the Chinese Communist Party in the origins of COVID-19. I thank the chairman and ranking member for an outstanding bipartisan bill. I thank them both for their work on it, and I am proud to be a member of this committee. Let's do our duty. Let's support servicemembers, military families, and retirees. Let's pass this bill.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize James ``Hondo'' Geurts. After retiring from the Air Force as a colonel, Hondo served in the Senior Executive Service as United States Special Operations Command's Acquisition Executive as well as Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition. He is formally retiring again after continuing his faithful service by performing the duties of the Under Secretary of the Navy. He is not only an advocate for the hardworking men and women of Northeast Wisconsin, but also a dedicated patriot in service to his Nation. During his more than 30 years of service, Hondo served for 22 years in uniform as acquisition program manager with engineering and in program management leadership positions in numerous weapon systems. As a defense civilian, Hondo served in all levels of defense-related acquisition leadership including Acquisition Executive, Program Executive Officer, and Program Manager of a variety of Major Defense Acquisition Programs to include ballistic missiles, surveillance platforms, tactical fighter aircraft, advanced avionics systems, stealth cruise missiles, training systems, and manned and unmanned special operations aircraft. After retiring from the Air Force, Hondo served an additional 8 years as Acquisition Executive for USSOCOM and Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition until Feb. 2021 when he was designated as performing the duties of the Under Secretary of the Navy. Amidst his commitment as a service member, acquisitions leader, and performing the duties of Under Secretary of the Navy, his greatest contribution to both national security and to the people of Northeast Wisconsin has been his incredible work on the frigate program. Thanks to his uncommon skill and unparalleled dedication, the world is a safer place. I am incredibly thankful for his selfless and dedicated service. Madam Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in applauding James ``Hondo'' Geurts for his patriotism and inspiring service to a grateful Nation.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to join my constituents, businesses and organizations of Wisconsin's Eighth Congressional District in recognizing the declaration of Talent Day in the Greater Green Bay Area on September 8, 2021. Northeastern Wisconsin, like much of the state and country, is hampered by a shortage of qualified workers to meet the needs of business and industry. From manufacturing to health care, transportation to hospitality, every employer in the Greater Green Bay Area and Northeast Wisconsin feels the strain of a tight labor market. This reality does not come as a surprise. Talent attraction, development, and retention is a significant concern for the economic development of our area. The Greater Green Bay Chamber has developed a strategic plan to attract talent to Northeast Wisconsin, and the Chamber and our community are working to implement that strategy. To highlight the growing need for talent and update the community on new initiatives, the Greater Green Bay Chamber, working with Brown County and the City of Green Bay, established Wednesday, September 8, as Talent Day in the Greater Green Bay Area. Talent Day will raise awareness of the challenges employers face and foster conversation about how we can solve these problems together as a community. Events on Talent Day will include a presentation on talent hiring and employee development, hands-on workshops for hiring managers, and a roundtable discussion on hiring in the Greater Green Bay area. On Talent Day, the Greater Green Bay Chamber will also publicly unveil a new community brand, and a new website designed to show the world everything that makes Greater Green Bay a great place to live. As employers recruit talent from all over the world, this website will help showcase our incredible community and attract the employees our businesses need. Madam Speaker, I would like to extend my warmest greetings and congratulations to those in the Greater Green Bay Area who have come together on this effort and I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in celebrating Talent Day on September 8th. I applaud the organizer's dedication, commitment and energy shown through their service to the community and our country.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to urge defeat of the previous question so that we can consider my bill, H.R. 5071, to ensure no Americans are left behind in Afghanistan. Over the past week, we have all seen the horrifying images coming out of Kabul: babies being passed over barbed wire, 2-year-olds trampled to death, bodies falling from C-17s. These pictures are now forever painted onto American history. They don't depict the orderly withdrawal that the President promised. These are, instead, portraits of chaos, tragedy, and dishonor. And, yet, the administration assures us a plan for every contingency. Was the plan for America to give billions of dollars worth of U.S. military equipment to the Taliban? Was the plan to put terrorists, effectively, in charge of security around the Kabul airport? Was the plan to leave over 10,000 American citizens stranded behind enemy lines? Madam Speaker, if this was the plan, a plan to surrender so incompetently and on such ignominious terms, then our country can't withstand any more of this administration's plans. It is time for this body, this Congress, to act, to hold the administration accountable and save lives. This bill would do that by requiring daily reporting to Congress on the number of Americans left in the country and the number of Afghan allies that are seeking refuge. The bill also critically prohibits the President from withdrawing our forces until all Americans, who want out, are safely out of the country. Right now, it seems, the President is doubling down on this August 31 withdraw date, despite strong bipartisan opposition and push back. Make no mistake, if we get out on August 31, we are going to condemn thousands to death. I don't care what secret side deal was struck with the Taliban, this is America, we don't leave anybody behind. A great country, such as ours, takes care of our citizens and our allies. Our enemies are mocking our surrender right now. We have all seen the images. The Taliban, for example, just mocked the iconic image of Marines raising the flag over Iwo Jima. It may be too late to save face because of this debacle, but it is not too late to save lives. This isn't a news cycle that will blow over. This isn't a narrative that you can spin. We are talking about American lives, and we are talking about America's honor. Madam Speaker, let's act now, before this crisis, and with it, America's standing in the world deteriorates even further.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the Oneida Nation for receiving the Lake Michigan Champions of Conservation Award. The Lake Michigan Champions of Conservation Award honors people, programs, community groups, and businesses for outstanding achievements in the restoration, protection, or promotion of Lake Michigan. The Oneida Nation continuously provides critical services and programs to preserve, restore, and enhance our environment, and are extremely deserving of this recognition. The Oneida Nation has a long history of caring for our environment and understands that preserving and protecting the environment is a responsibility given to us all by our creator. The Oneida Nation has made environmental conservation a priority, administering conservation programs, like the Tribal Environmental Response Program, a program intended to address the release of hazardous and regulated materials into the environment. Additionally, the Oneida Nation has played a crucial role in the restoration of our watershed by returning wildlife habitat land back into natural areas, wetlands, forests, and grasslands. They also frequently partner with local governments, agencies, and private landowners to continue improving water quality standards locally. The Oneida Nation offers unique community education programs consistent with the culture, vision, and priorities of the Oneida Nation. The Nation works to weave Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) practices into each of their projects by incorporating cultural information and practices. To further raise awareness, they opened their restoration projects to field tours and educational experiences by other resource professionals and interest groups. The Oneida Nation's service to the conservation of Northeastern Wisconsin has been incredibly valuable and is deeply appreciated by the members of our community. The Oneida Nation's sincere efforts do not go unnoticed. I commend the Nation for all its efforts to be champions of conservation in Northeast Wisconsin. Madam Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in congratulating the Oneida Nation for receiving the Lake Michigan Champions of Conservation Award.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, due to a matter outside of my control, I was unable to participate in Roll Call numbers 193, 194, 195, and 196. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 193; YEA on Roll Call No. 194; NAY on Roll Call No. 195; and YEA on Roll Call No. 196.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the N.E.W. Community Clinic as they celebrate their 50th Anniversary. The N.E.W. Community Clinic serves Green Bay and the surrounding areas by providing quality, comprehensive and compassionate medical care to those who are underserved in our communities. The N.E.W. Community Clinic's mission is truly remarkable. Since the clinic's start on July 27, 1971, the N.E.W. Community Clinic has partnered with organizations throughout the Green Bay area. Given the exceptional quality care provided to patients, the N.E.W. Community Clinic has been recognized by several healthcare organizations for their work. Over the last 50 years, the N.E.W. Community Clinic has substantially expanded, both in size and the services provided. In 1975, just 4 short years after their grand opening, N.E.W. Community Clinic gained the endorsement of the Brown County Medical Society and began working closely with all three local hospitals. In 1987, the clinic opened a second location with support from the community through several funding initiatives. Today, the clinic has five locations throughout the Green Bay area where they offer dental care, lead screening, and nutritional programs for individuals who are uninsured and underserved. To better serve the communities throughout Green Bay, the clinic also takes walk- in appointments, issuing referrals to outside providers or medicals facilities, as well as offering pediatric care. For 50 years, the N.E.W. Community Clinic has upheld its mission of providing the best possible care to the people of Green Bay and Northeastern Wisconsin. Over 80 percent of the N.E.W. clinic patients stated that their immediate health care needs were met through their visit, and 45 percent of those patients stated that the clinic prevented them from going to the emergency room. I commend the very important work does and dedication that the N.E.W. Community Clinic has shown to the Green Bay area and Northeast Wisconsin. I invite all members of this body to join me in celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the N.E.W. Community Clinic. The N.E.W. Community Clinic is a true credit to Northeast Wisconsin and deserving of the highest degree of recognition.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the career of retiring President and CEO of Family Services of Northeast Wisconsin, Jeff VandeLeest. During his 25 years at Family Services of Northeast Wisconsin, Jeff VandeLeest served as Executive Vice President, Senior Vice President, and finally President and CEO of the organization. Mr. VandeLeest's dedication and commitment to Family Services of Northeast Wisconsin and the people it serves is truly remarkable. Throughout his tenure, Mr. VandeLeest's leadership and knowledge lead to the expansion and long-term success of the organization. Family Services of Northeast Wisconsin is a non-profit, human services agency that offers more than 35 programs to people within Northeast Wisconsin during challenging periods in their lives. In 2019 alone, under the leadership of Mr. VandeLeest, Family Services was able to assist over 18,000 children, families, and individuals through some of life's most challenging transitions. For 25 years, Mr. VandeLeest has upheld the mission of Family Services; to protect, heal, and care. Throughout his 25 years with Family Services, the organization has grown exponentially. Mr. VandeLeest has been an advocate for a wide range of services, from training individuals to handle the most traumatic of cases, to educating communities about prevention. Mr. VandeLeest's expertise and knowledge in the services provided by Family Services will surely be missed by his peers and the entire Green Bay community. Prior to Jeff's career at Family Services of Northeast Wisconsin he spent nearly 20 years delivering and managing juvenile justice services. Jeff has dedicated his entire career to giving back to those in our community who are most in need. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Mr. Jeff VandeLeest's 25-year career with Family Services of Northeast Wisconsin and wish him and his wife, Mary, all the best in retirement. His service and commitment to Northeast Wisconsin is deserving of the highest degree of recognition.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor GLC Minerals, LLC as the company celebrates its 150th anniversary. GLC Minerals is a Green Bay based, custom manufacturer of minerals and applications in its fifth generation of ownership and operation by the Hurlbut family. GLC Minerals serves many of Wisconsin's key industries, including dairy, poultry, glass, paper, construction, and agronomy. The company came from humble beginnings when entrepreneur, Fred Hurlbut, Sr., realized the strategic location of Green Bay and the economic opportunity of Great Lakes shipping following the Civil War and, in 1871, Fred's foresight came to fruition as the Hurlbut Calcium and Chemical Company. In 1913, second-generation owner, Fred Hurlbut, Jr., grew the company to include major coal and bulk distribution throughout Northeast Wisconsin. In 1940, the now named F. Hurlbut Company relocated to the shores of the Fox River where it still resides today, 81 years later. Throughout the mid-1900s, the company expanded its equipment and product lines. Under third-generation owners, Wesley H. Garner I, Charles Bennet and Frederick J. Lenfesty, the company diversified into the calcium and concrete products business. In 1965, Wesley H. Garner I's son, Frederick L. Garner, joined the company and, after serving in various capacities within the company for more than twenty years, he purchased Hurlbut Calcium and Chemical from the family. Frederick focused on reinvesting in the plant and equipment to produce a diverse and high-quality product line, and changed the name of the firm to Great Lakes Calcium Corporation. In 1996, Wesley Hurlbut Garner ll, became the fifth-generation family member to continue the entrepreneurial spirit by further expanding product lines. In 2015, Wes changed the company's name to GLC Minerals, LLC and launched GLC Integrated Services, LLC, a trans-load company serving Wisconsin's dairy industry with cost-effective movement of product from rail to truck to farm. GLC Minerals continues to grow and support our local business community and the broader Green Bay community, as it did in the early days when it helped to establish and support the Greater Green Bay Chamber. Madam Speaker, I urge all Members of this body to join me in applauding GLC Minerals and the Hurlbut family legacy for their 150 years of success.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, l rise today to honor Colonel Randy Southard. Serving in both the Reserves and Active Duty in the Army, and as a patrol deputy for the Outagamie County Sheriff's Office, Colonel Southard is an asset to his community and to his Nation. During his nearly 30 years of military service, Colonel Southard took on several leadership positions as an infantry officer and commander. He served as the primary staff officer of five large Army Reserve units, Deputy Brigade Commander and Exercise Branch Chief for 1st Brigade, Great Lakes Training Division, 75th Training Command, and Chief Observer Controller Trainer for 15 Battalion and higher echelon units. During Colonel Southard's service he completed tours overseas in Kabul, Afghanistan as Deputy Chief, Afghanistan National Army Development, providing crucial support to the United Nations Security Council's International Security Assistance Force Joint Command. Amidst his deployments and hard work in the Army, he continued serving Northeast Wisconsin as a patrol deputy in the Outagamie County Sheriff's Office. Beginning his career with the Outagamie County Sheriff's Office on June 7, 1999 Colonel Southard has served as a Field Training Officer, as a member of the Emergency Response SWAT team, and as a K9 handler. Colonel Southard has clearly demonstrated his commitment to serving for the public good and making the world around him a safer place during his 22 year career. I am incredibly thankful for his dedication and continued service with the Sheriff's Office. Madam Speaker, I urge all Members of this body to join me in applauding Colonel Southard for his impressive career and service in the United States Army

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate the American Legion Post 337 Mixtacki-Johnson on its 100th Anniversary. Post 337 was formed on May 16, 1921 when 15 founding members came together to sign the Legion constitution in Pulaski, Wisconsin. For 100 years, the Pulaski American Legion Post 337 has upheld the vision of legions across the country to the highest degree. Post 337 proudly carried the name of Pulaski native and World War One veteran, Private Adam Mixtacki, who was killed in action in France in 1918 at just 21 years old upon their founding. In 1950 they added the name of fellow Pulaski resident and Airforce Veteran, Sergeant Harvey Johnson. Sergeant Johnson was killed in action in Germany during World War Two when his B-26 was shot down by enemy fire. The legion carries on the memory, service, and sacrifice of Private Mixtacki and Sergeant Johnson through their vision of strengthening America by improving the lives of veterans, the military, and their families. Post 337 has continued to grow from their beginnings of 15 founding members 100 years ago. Post 337 now has members from Brown, Oconto, Shawano, and Outagamie Counties, who work together to teach future generations about the importance of service. The members of the Post 337 are a true inspiration and example for all Americans. The continued service and dedication that the members of Post 337 have shown to not only the Pulaski community, but to the United States of America is deserving of the highest degree of recognition. As we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Post 337, we must recognize the outstanding services that they have and continue to provide to Pulaski and surrounding communities. In addition to providing the color guard and rifle squads for local ceremonies, Post 337 enjoys supporting the Pulaski High School and other organizations in countless ways. Post 337 sponsors sporting events, band trips, Badger Boys State, Youth Government day, offers scholarships and ceremonies, all of which have provided countless opportunities for members of the Pulaski community. Post 337 has been a voice for the men and women who have served our country. At Post 337 every day they put country before self, just as they did the day they enlisted. American Legion Post 337 Mixtacki- Johnson is a true credit to Northeast Wisconsin. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the Pulaski American Legion Post 337 Mixtacki-Johnson as they come together to celebrate their 100th Anniversary.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor GLC Minerals LLC as they celebrate their 150th anniversary. GLC Minerals is a Green Bay based, custom manufacturer of minerals and applications in its fifth generation of ownership and operation by the Hurlbut family. GLC Minerals services many of Wisconsin's key industries, including dairy, poultry, glass, paper, construction, and agronomy. The company came from humble beginnings when entrepreneur Fred Hurlbut Sr. saw the potential for a business located in Green Bay. Fred saw the convenience in shipping and transportation that the Great Lakes offered businesses, and in 1871 Fred's foresight came to fruition as the Hurlbut Calcium and Chemical Company. In 1913, second-generation owner Fred Hurlbut Jr. grew the company to include major coal and bulk distribution throughout Northeast Wisconsin. In 1940 The F. Hurlbut Company relocated to the shores of the Fox River where it still resides today, 81 years later. Throughout the mid- 1900s the company expanded its equipment and product line leading to a fitting name change of the ``Great Lakes Calcium Corporation.'' In 2015 Wesley Hurlbut Gamer I, fifth-generation family member to own the company, made the final name change to GLC Minerals, LLC. However, this was not simply a name change. Wes continued in his forefather's footsteps and expanded the business again to serve our dairy industry with the cost-effective movement of product from rail to truck and farm. GLC Minerals continues to grow and support our local business community and the broader Green Bay community, helping to establish and support the Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce. Madam Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in applauding GLC Minerals and the Hurlbut family for their 150 years of success

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, today I rise in celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the Waupaca Fire Department. The Waupaca Fire Department was formed shortly after the founding of the city of Waupaca on May 11th, 1871. As the Waupaca community celebrates this milestone, we look back on the outstanding history of the department and critical role they have played in the community. Throughout their history the department has grown immensely and now provides service to approximately 150 square miles. For 150 years, the department has remained committed to serving the city of Waupaca and surrounding communities to the highest degree. In total, the Waupaca Fire Department's Fire Inspection Division works incredibly hard to keep the community safe, conducting an impressive 550 inspections for commercial business in 2019 alone. Their work demonstrates not only the amount of expertise and knowledge the department holds, but the importance the department places on keeping their communities safe. Over the last 150 years, the department has faced many challenges, but their efforts to give back to the community have never wavered. From participating in the Annual Battle of the Badges Softball Tournament, where the Fire Department takes on the Police Department, to hosting corn roasts and raffles, the Waupaca Fire Department is a true pillar of the community and Northeast Wisconsin. Many Waupaca families have benefited from the department's thoughtfulness and generosity. When the department is not fighting fires and saving lives, their members donate their time and efforts to making Waupaca a better place. The department played a key role in countless improvements around the city, such as the playground in South Park and the construction of multiple shelter homes. I commend the department's dedication and commitment to the Waupaca community. The Waupaca Fire Department supplies the community with incredibly trained individuals who are able to handle fire and other emergencies at a moment's notice. It is evident that the knowledge, dedication, and perseverance conveyed through the men and women of this department are deserving of the highest degree of admiration. I invite all members of this body to join me in celebrating the sesquicentennial of the Waupaca Fire Department. The Waupaca Fire Department is a true credit to the community and deserving of the highest degree of recognition

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, today I rise in honor of the career and service of Hobart, Wisconsin resident, Mr. John Carlson. Mr. Carlson's notable Transportation Security Administration (TSA) career began in 2002, serving as the Assistant Federal Security Director (AFSD) for the Outagamie County Regional Airport, where he played a major role in the start-up of several TSA activities and assumed responsibility for day-to-day aviation security. In 2006, he was reassigned as the AFSD-Generalist at the Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) Hub and Spoke Federal Security Director (FSD) staff where he handled compliance oversight, customer service, property accountability, safety, and model workplace strategies. Given his extensive knowledge and leadership skills, Mr. Carlson would go on to assume roles where he was trusted to oversee a majority of TSA operations in four separate airports in northern Wisconsin: Austin Straubel International Airport, (GRB), Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA), Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport (RHI) and Appleton International Airport (ATW formerly Outagamie County Regional Airport). Before beginning his career of service with TSA, Mr. Carlson served the United States honorably for twenty years in the U.S. Army as an infantry and military intelligence officer until his retirement in 1995 as a Lieutenant Colonel. Mr. Carlson's dedication and leadership in the state of Wisconsin are incredibly valuable, and the service he provides to Northern Wisconsin and his country is remarkable. As we look back on Mr. Carlson's career, there is no doubt that he dedicated his life and career to making the world around him a safer, better place. Mr. Carlson's continued service to both his country and his community is worthy of our highest admiration.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, today I rise in honor of the career and service of retiring Green Bay Police Chief Andrew Smith. Chief Andrew Smith's career as a Police Officer began 33 years ago when he arrived in Green Bay from Los Angeles after having served 27 \1/2\ years with the Los Angeles Police Department. Throughout his career, he held countless command level assignments in Media Relations and Community Affairs groups, Operations, and Criminal Gang Homicide Division. For those who are unfamiliar with Chief Smith's extensive career with the LAPD, you may recognize him from the popular true crime docuseries on Netflix: The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel. During Chief Smith's time with the Green Bay Police Department, transparency was one of his top priorities. He gave regular updates to the public through the department's community update videos where he would address current events taking place throughout the Green Bay Area. During Chief Smith's tenure the Green Bay Police Department successfully grew, hiring 65 new police officers and swearing in approximately 190 officers. When the attacks against our men and women in uniform sparked national attention last summer, Chief Smith continued to protect and defend the Green Bay area. I commend his selfless service and dedication to the Green Bay Police Department and surrounding communities. Chief Smith is leaving behind a notable legacy that will be admired by generations of police officers for years to come. After retirement, Chief Smith and his family plan to stay in Green Bay and I am confident that he will continue to be a value add to Northeast Wisconsin. Chief Smith's dedication and selfless service to his community is deserving of the highest degree of recognition and honor. I wish Chief Smith and his family all the best in his retirement.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, today I rise in honor of the career and service of retiring City of Niagara Mayor, George Bousley. Mayor Bousley has had a long and esteemed career in public service. He was first elected as the Mayor of Niagara in 1989 and held the position for 32 consecutive years. He also served 12 years on the Marinette County Board, with 8 years as the County Board Chair. Throughout his service to Niagara and Marinette County, Mayor Bousley lead and contributed to countless projects and initiatives that will surely benefit Northeast Wisconsin for years to come. Colleagues of Mayor Bousley have praised him for his humility, dedication, open mindedness, and hard work, all of which will be missed as his tenure as Mayor of Niagara comes to an end. Mayor Bousley has accomplished much during his time in public service, and truly personifies the generous spirit that Northeast Wisconsin is known for. From his work on the U.S. 141 project, to Niagara's Centennial Celebration, Mayor Bousley worked tirelessly for his community. Mayor George Bousley will certainly be missed by the people of Niagara, and I commend him for his dedication to his community. Madam Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in applauding Mayor Bousley for his service.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to remove Representatives Bill Huizenga, Jay Obernolte, and Vicente Gonzalez as cosponsors of H. Res. 157.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor World War II veteran Warren Pierner as he celebrates his 100th birthday on March 13, 2021. Warren grew up in Green Bay and attended Green Bay East High School. In 1942, he joined the United States Coast Guard, where he served in the Atlantic on a patrol frigate called the Grand Rapids, and in the Pacific on an attack transport called the Aquarius. Mr. Pierner ran the boilers on these ships for nearly four years and attained the rank of Water Tender 1st Class. Warren continued his service to his country and community as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, where he worked for 36 years before his retirement in 1984. After his military service, Warren began to build a family. He married Myra Larsen in 1948 and together they had 7 children during their 60 years of marriage until her passing in 2008. His family enjoyed the summers together fishing, swimming, and playing cards while camping or staying in a rented cabin in Northern Wisconsin. An avid sportsman and sports fan, Warren love to golf, bowl, fish, and swim. Mr. Pierner has been a longtime Chicago Cubs fan but makes up for it by being an ardent Green Bay Packers fan, UW Green Bay Phoenix fan, and Wisconsin Badger fan. Beloved husband, father, and soldier, Warren is a tribute to the ``Greatest Generation'' and a grateful nation and state thank him for his service. Madam Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in applauding Warren Pierner for his service in WWII and wishing him a happy and healthy 100th birthday.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the heroic efforts of the Sturgeon Bay Fire Department. In the early hours of February 1st, a bulk carrier ship holding fuel and docked for the winter, the M/V Roger Blough, caught fire. Over 100 Sturgeon Bay firefighters battled the blaze for hours, using 1.4 million gallons of water to extinguish the fire. Their bravery and skill ultimately lead to no deaths, no injuries, no fuel discharged, and minimal damage to the ship. These brave men and women deserve our thanks and gratitude, and have served Northeast Wisconsin exceptionally well. Madam Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in applauding the Sturgeon Bay Fire Department for their service and bravery on February 1st.

Mr. GALLAGHER

Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor World War II veteran Lloyd Ellefson as he celebrates his 100th birthday. Mr. Ellefson grew up in Appleton, Wisconsin on his family's farm. In 1942, his 21st birthday, Lloyd registered for the draft and joined the U.S. Army. Lloyd was stationed at Fort Sill in Oklahoma, where he trained as an auto mechanic with the 93rd Armored Field Artillery. Lloyd served under General George Patton in both France and Italy during WWII. He was first stationed in Naples, Italy where he remembers being ``boomed'' by the German Air Force. Lloyd's service then brought him to the shores of Southern France where he recalls seeing all the ships waiting in the calm waters of the Bay before the fighting began. Lloyd was the only mechanic sent to the D-Day invasion, and he and his battalion received a Bronze Arrowhead for their service and bravery in the invasion. Beloved husband, father, grandfather and soldier, Lloyd is a tribute to the ``Greatest Generation'' and a grateful nation and state thank him for his service. Madam Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in applauding Lloyd Ellefson for his service in WWII and wishing him a happy and healthy 100th birthday.