Duncan Hunter

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize someone who has dedicated their entire life to the service of their fellow citizen. This week, Warren H. Savage, Jr. will conclude his term as the Executive Director of the Santee, California Chamber of Commerce; a final chapter in a career that began fifty-five years ago when he first entered public service as a member of the United States Navy. The Navy only marks the starting point for Warren, whose list of accomplishments is as distinguished as it is long. He served thirty-six years in the Naval Reserve, including four years on active duty, with his final twenty years of service as a commissioned Naval Officer. Warren also served two states and several localities as a volunteer firefighter and instructor. His leadership roles over the course of his career, whether as a member of the military, a community volunteer or an advocate for the city of Santee, are a testament of selfless devotion. To know Warren, it's necessary to reflect on his decision to join the Navy. We all know that Americans join the military for one of several reasons. In some cases, the decision is based on the education and benefits that are available. Others choose to serve in the interest of acquiring direction or discipline that might be missing in their lives. Then there are those who serve because they love America and believe in everything it stands it for, which is exactly the type of person Warren is--a selfless patriot who understands that quality leadership and personal sacrifice are what defines this great country. Warren's contribution doesn't end there. In fact, it's just the beginning of what would be many more years of public service in varying forms, including serving residents in both Virginia and California as a volunteer firefighter. He held positions as Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief in Burke, VA; Deputy Chief and Fire Chief in Annandale, VA, and Battalion Chief and Chief Training Officer for Fairfax County, VA. Warren also trained his fellow volunteers as a National Fire Protective Association (NFPA) Instructor IV for the Commonwealth of Virginia Office of Fire Programs, and served as a curriculum reviewer and writer for Virginia State Fire programs. He was also an adjunct instructor for the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland, and The Commonwealth of Virginia State Fire Academy. Warren was instrumental in starting the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Volunteer Section and was a member of the IAFC Accreditation Development Group and served as a member of the Accreditation alpha site and team leader and member of beta site, as well as a peer assessor and team leader at on-site Accreditation of Fire Agencies. He was a contributing author of the Commission on Fire Accreditation International's (CFAI) `` Fire and Emergency Services Self Assessment'' manual as well as its ``Exceeding Customer Expectation'' manual. Eventually, Warren and his wife Barbara found themselves together in Santee, California, where he would continue his life of dedicated service in both the business and firefighter community. As Executive Director for the Santee Chamber of Commerce, he has worked diligently to promote good relationships with the City of Santee, the School Department, the Water Authority and businesses in the area. He also serves as a member of California's State Citizen Corps council, a statewide policy board and is the California State Advocate for Fire Corps under Federal Emergency Management Agency. Warren is also the Chairman of the San Diego County Heartland Paramedic Program County Service Area. He also served on the Community Oriented Policy Committee since January 2008 and the Salary Setting Advisory Committee since January 2009. Warren has been involved with the Santee Collaborative since 1996 and chaired the Santee Redevelopment POC. Warren's life has been defined by service to his fellow citizen. He might be retiring, but that just means Warren will have even more time to do what he enjoys most: serving others. Call it a new chapter of that selfless pursuit he's shown for so many years. Mr. Speaker, I wish Warren continued success in everything he does. And I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to such a great American.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. I have an amendment at the desk, Madam Chair.

Mr. HUNTER. Madam Chair, this amendment is very simple. The most important assets we have in our United States military are our personnel, the men and women that we move around. They get moved around, they usually don't have a choice of where they move from base to base and camp to camp, and this amendment specifically covers those ladies and men who protect us that have special needs children, those children that would otherwise be covered under the IDEA, the disability act for kids, ensuring them a good education. However, these parents don't always know where they're going. What this would do would start a pilot program for up to 250 kids to allow them to choose whatever school fits their needs best, whether it's a private school, a charter school or public school, and to see if that helps alleviate some of the pain that the families face as they travel from base to base, as they go overseas to Iraq and Afghanistan, so we can take care of their kids here at home. It's a pilot program. I would like to say on our side the only issue that we had with this amendment was its funding source. I have spoken to the chairman from California, the chairman of the Armed Services Committee; and we are going to pull the funding source out of DOD and find another funding stream for this in conference. So with that taken care of, I would like to yield 2 minutes to my good friend from Arizona (Mr. Franks).

Mr. HUNTER. Madam Chair, I would like to inquire how much time is remaining.

Mr. HUNTER. I would like to yield 30 seconds to the distinguished gentleman from California and chairman of the Armed Services Committee, Mr. McKeon.

Mr. HUNTER. Madam Chair, I would like to yield the balance of my time to the gentlelady from Washington (Mrs. McMorris Rodgers).

Mr. HUNTER. Madam Chair, I would obviously urge a ``yes'' vote on this amendment and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, today I will introduce the Setting New Priorities in Education Spending Act, the first in a series of proposals to reform education in America. There is an urgent need to fix what is broken in our Nation's education system. Roughly two-thirds of eighth graders lack basic reading and math skills. Only 70 percent of students graduate high school. Meanwhile, Federal education spending is at an all-time high. The Department of Education currently administers more than 80 programs tied to K-12 classrooms. Many of these programs are duplicative, several have been deemed inefficient, and others are simply a poor use of taxpayer funds. It is time to trim the fat. Today, I will introduce legislation that will eliminate, not consolidate and not defund, but eliminate 43 wasteful K-12 education programs. At a time when approximately one-third of American fourth graders can't read, we must concentrate on education initiatives that have a track record of putting the needs of the students first. I encourage my colleagues to support the Setting New Priorities in Education Spending Act.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, every so often, the heroism of America's greatest generation is relived through personal accounts, ceremony and celebration. It was these Americans who lead our nation to victory in Europe and the Pacific during World War II, and then returned home to build an economy and set the gold standard for future generations to not only admire, but to follow. One of these great Americans, Marine Corps Master Sergeant Frank Mason, is celebrating his 90th birthday, a significant milestone that encompasses a lifetime of service and sacrifice. Frank's story, starting with his childhood and carrying through his career in the Marine Corps, is truly inspiring. And his courage as a prisoner of war following the fall of the Philippines is an example of the same American selflessness and fighting spirit that continues to motivate the men and women of the Marine Corps, and every other American who understands that freedom comes at a cost. Seeing both an obligation of duty and opportunity in the Marine Corps, Frank enlisted in the Marines in 1937 at 17 years of age. Frank was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment and, after a year in Hawaii, he joined the Battalion in Shanghai, China--0a part of the world that, outside of books and maps, was unfamiliar to most Americans--until the threat of a Japanese attack forced the evacuation of all American troops on November 28, 1941--days before the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Frank's next stop was the Philippines, where the Marines would soon put up a valiant fight against a determined and relentless Japanese enemy committed to fighting until the last man. The Philippines was a strategic asset for both the U.S. and the Japanese during World War II. And the Island of Corregidor was the culmination of the Japanese campaign for the Philippines. It was on Corregidor that Frank and others, cornered and outnumbered, endured multiple waves of attacks. They held their ground. The fighting intensified until Japanese tanks went into action and stacked the odds against the Marines on the Island. Many were wounded, and under fear that Japanese landings would continue overnight, General Jonathan Wainright made the decision to surrender. General Wainright's famous words to President Roosevelt provide a clear window into the conditions facing Marines on Corregidor, saying ``There is a limit of human endurance, and that point has long passed.'' On May 6, 1942, the Corregidor garrison, with two officers sent forward with a white flag, surrendered to the Japanese. Frank's account of these events aptly reflects the attitude of a Marine rifleman. An attitude, in fact, that reflects the tradition and honor of the Marine Corps to this day. Franks asserts that, ``we never surrendered. We were ordered to stop fighting.'' Frank was put on a ``hell ship'' and transported to japan with other Prisoners of War, where he was starved and nearly worked to death in a nickel and lead mine for over three years. Still, Frank did not lose his spirit or his desire to live. With some incredible fortune and personal resourcefulness, Frank survived. And when most people might say they've done their part and try restoring some normalcy to their lives, Frank made the conscious decision to stay in the Marine Corps. His extraordinary levels of experience, fortitude and resilience, would be needed yet again, this time in Korea. Less than a decade after the World War II victory parades rolled through America, Frank's next test would come during the Korean War and the historic battle of the Chosin Reservoir--a badge of pride for the Marine Corps, which, once again, faced insurmountable odds against a formidable enemy. Frank showed that the right leadership and experience is invaluable, under even the most difficult and dangerous conditions. It's impossible to quantify Frank's contribution to the nation, but what's certain is that there are only a few Americans whose experience and sacrifice compare to his. Frank is part of an elite class of Americans who deserve our unending appreciation. It was Ronald Reagan who famously said, ``Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have made a difference in the world. Marines don't have that problem.'' Mr. Speaker, I believe Frank is an example of the type of Marine President Reagan had in mind. Frank made a difference and we are all thankful for his service. On the occasion of his 90th birthday, I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Master Sergeant Frank Mason--a true American hero.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 204 I am recorded as not voting for H.R. 471, the Scholarships for Opportunity and Results Act. Despite my presence on the floor during the vote on this bill, the electronic voting system erroneously recorded my vote. I ask that the Record reflect my support for H.R. 471, including my vote in favor of this important piece of legislation.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize and pay tribute to Gunnery Sergeant Darwin Leavell, United States Marine Corps, on the occasion of his transfer from the House liaison office. I, and many other members of this chamber, have had the pleasure of working with Gunnery Sergeant Darwin Leavell over the past two and a half years during his service with Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs and as the Congressional Liaison Staff Non-Commissioned Officer of the U.S.M.C. Liaison Office in the House of Representatives. Gunnery Sergeant Leavell distinguished himself through exceptional meritorious service while serving as the Staff Non-Commissioned Officer of Legislative Affairs. Every day he served in direct support of not only the Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs but in direct support of every member of Congress, every Marine and every American. His keen abilities in organization, interpersonal relationships, and communication were extremely critical to the successful accomplishment of the Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs' mission. His achievements and ability to get the job done have always been effective and noteworthy. During his time in the Liaison office, Gunnery Sergeant Leavell was able to develop and execute legislative strategy for the United States Marine Corps that was instrumental in creating a fiscal and policy landscape conducive to training and equipping the nation's most elite fighting force, ensuring their success on the battlefield. He routinely turned broad guidance into action which energized the Office of Legislative Affairs and members of Congress alike. His actions allowed the Marine Corps to engage members of Congress and their staffs, directly facilitating the increased emphasis on improving Congressional relationships. While leading the House Liaison Office through the extraordinary challenges associated with Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and the ongoing Global War on Terror, he concurrently ensured that a myriad of daily Congressional communications, assignments and events were executed flawlessly. During Gunnery Sergeant Leavell's tour as the Legislative Affairs Staff Non-Commissioned Officer, he accomplished the full spectrum of the Marine Corps' legislative mission. He exemplified the candor and knowledge that we have come to expect from the Marine Corps and he played a key role in maintaining superb relationships between the Marine Corps and the House of Representatives. Throughout his time here in the House, Gunnery Sergeant Leavell effectively responded to several thousand congressional inquiries, many of which gained national level attention. Gunnery Sergeant Leavell successfully planned, coordinated and escorted over 50 international and domestic Congressional and Staff Delegations. His detailed coordination with foreign government officials, U.S. State Department, and senior military officials ensured that each delegation was conducted professionally. His attention to detail and anticipation of requirements allowed Representatives to focus on fact-finding and gleaning new insights that informed critical decisions to support the people of the United States. He has made lasting contributions to the House of Representatives. I am proud to have had the opportunity to work with Gunnery Sergeant Leavell and I thank him for his devoted service to this great nation.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a fellow United States Marine, Mr. Richard ``Dick'' Sullivan, who died at the age of 79 on Thursday, February 3, 2011, from complications of lung cancer. Mr. Sullivan was part of a generation of Marines that, still to this day, all Marines continue to uphold as some of the greatest ever to wear a uniform and call themselves leathernecks. Mr. Sullivan grew up in Colorado Springs, CO, and enlisted in the Marine Corps at 17 years of age. Sergeant Sullivan bravely served his country as a machine gunner in the Korean War, alongside the other Marines of 1st Marine Division, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, George Company. With George Company, Sergeant Sullivan fought in Seoul, Inchon, and the historic Battle of Chosin Reservoir--where Marines faced incredible odds and demonstrated amazing tenacity and grit against a formidable enemy. Just like many of the Marines that survived the Chosin Reservoir campaign, Mr. Sullivan considers those 17 days of fighting as the most important days of his service to the nation. In the period between November 27th and December 13, 1950, the United National troops, which were nicknamed the Chosin Few under the command of Major General Edward Almond, were surrounded by as many as 100,000 Chinese troops. Fighting in extremely cold temperatures that reached -35 degrees below Fahrenheit, Sergeant Sullivan engaged the enemy on frozen ground and persevered frostbite, limited supplies and weapon malfunctions. The military historian Patrick K. O'Donnell highlights the valor of George Company in his book ``Give Me Tomorrow,'' by detailing how a small group of Marines, against all odds, made five separate stands against enemy units despite being severely outnumbered. During a critical point in combat, George Company put together a task force to break through to Haguaru-ri. George Company went down an 11- mile stretch of road, which became a shooting gallery. The Chinese had the high ground and started peppering vehicles with machine guns, bazookas and mortars. Many of their 150 vehicles were destroyed and over half the company was either captured or killed. Mr. Donnell states in his book that if the task force would not have taken the initiative to advance their position to Haguaru-ri, then the 1st Marine Division would not have been able to consolidate at Chosin Reservoir. There is a good chance the United States would have lost the Korean War. Thanks to George Company, the 1st Marine Division did consolidate their forces and managed to decimate 10 Chinese infantry divisions in its fighting withdrawal eastward to the North Korean port of Hungnam. The fighting withdrawal of the 1st Marine Division from the Chosin Reservoir is considered one of the greatest moments in the history of the Navy, the Marine Corps and the British Royal Marines. Mr. Sullivan was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps on August 1, 1952. Over the next four decades, Mr. Sullivan worked for Ronson Hydraulic Units and Sargent Aerospace. After retirement, Mr. Sullivan was very active in Arizona's Leisure World. He renewed his love of golf playing at Heron Lakes with the men's club on Mondays, the Donut League on Wednesdays, with friends on Thursdays at the Nine Hole, and always played on Saturdays. In the final year of his life, chemotherapy treatments never kept him from indulging in his favorite sport of golf. Even while he served on Leisure World's Architectural Committee for a number of years, his heart was always with other Marines who lived in Leisure World. He was instrumental in keeping the celebration of the United States Marine Corps birthday on November 10th by being involved with an annual dinner, a welcome back party in September and a barbeque at the close of the season in April. Although he only spent four years in the Marine Corps, his mind and body were always with the United States Marines. He was proud of the fact that wherever he went, he would always meet up with another Marine, giving and receiving the recognizable hello of those who served in the Corps. He is survived by his wife, Sydele E. Milgrim and his sons Rick Sullivan of Mesa, AZ and Stuart Sullivan of Redmond, WA. Mr. Sullivan is truly an inspiration, embodying the honor and tradition of the Marine Corps and its motto of Semper Fidelis. And I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to such a fine American, who we all owe a debt of gratitude.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, first, I was in the Marine Corps. I did two tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. I didn't do anything exceptional; but if anybody else has served in Afghanistan, I will yield to you right now. If anybody in this Congress who has served in a military capacity in these wars in Afghanistan, I'll be happy to yield to you. You might have taken a few trips over, and you can tell stories about the families that are impacted who you know. You can talk about people who you know that have been impacted. You can talk about those marines and soldiers and sailors and airmen that we see injured at Bethesda and Walter Reed; but if you want to quote somebody, you can quote me. I'm in 223 Cannon. If you want to talk to a family that's been impacted by three deployments, two of my kids, all of them 10 or under--I have three--two of them have been through three deployments. One child, my youngest daughter, has been through one deployment, the Afghan deployment in 2007. If you want to talk to somebody, feel free to talk to my family because they understand what it's like. What they also understand is the reason that we're there. Less than 2 percent of America's population serves. The burden from Afghanistan is on their shoulders. It's on my family's shoulders. They know what's at stake. That's why they basically allowed me to do it. They allowed me to go to Iraq and Afghanistan because of the number one reason that we're there, the number one reason. And it's not to nation- build. It's to make sure that radicalized Muslims stop killing Americans. It's to stop them from destroying this country. They want to murder us. Every single person in this room, every American, radicalized Muslims want to murder. That's why we have men and women over there right now fighting. That's it. There's no other reason for it. Nation building is a thing we have to do there on the side to get the people, the Afghan people, on our side. But what we're doing right now is we're taking out the enemy. And we have to trust General Petraeus. We have to trust President Obama, in this case, that they know what's going on. He's the Commander in Chief, not us. We are not the commanders in chief. There's one of them, and it's the other side's President.

Mr. HUNTER. If you want to quote somebody who's been there, feel free to quote me. If you want to talk about it, feel free to come to my office. And if you want to hold up pictures of families, hold up pictures of mine because they've been impacted by it. But I thank the gentleman from Ohio for bringing up this debate because what has happened is our side has cut defense by $16 billion in H.R. 1. If we're not going to support our troops while we're fighting, this type of resolution might need a look at later. I don't think now is the right time. I oppose the resolution. Announcement By the Speaker Pro Tempore

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of Lieutenant General Michael L. Oates, the Director of the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization (JIEDDO), who will retire from service on July 1, 2011. LTG Oates has honorably served his country for more than three decades. Since graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1979, LTG Oates has commanded troops from Company to Division level. He is a veteran of Desert Shield and Desert Storm and served three tours in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, serving as the Chief of Staff to the Deputy and Chief Operating Officer, Coalition Provisional Authority, as the Deputy Commanding General (Operations) 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) and the Commanding General, 10th Mountain Division/Multi-National Division- Center. Among his many decorations, LTG Oates has been awarded the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Bronze Star Medal. As a Member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have supported LTG Oates' mission to provide the necessary training, equipment, and analytical capabilities necessary to protect our service men and women from the threats posed by IEDs. Having served in both Iraq and Afghanistan myself, I have experienced firsthand the dangers that IEDs pose to our troops. Under Oates' leadership, JIEDDO has made significant strides to combat those dangers by not only reducing the effectiveness of the IEDs, but also by helping to eliminate the enemy networks that seek to use these devices to harm our troops. His approach on Capitol Hill brought a high degree of candor, integrity, and focus. Few missions are as important as JIEDDO's efforts to defeat the IED as a weapon of strategic influence and LTG Oates carried out that mission superbly, executing our counter-IED (C-IED) support to the Afghanistan surge and significantly reducing the effectiveness of IEDs. Also under his leadership, JIEDDO improved its processes and control measures to reduce wasteful spending, improve transparency to Congress, and demonstrate a greater level of accountability. I have gotten to know Lieutenant General Michael Oates well during his tenure at JIEDDO. He is an inspiring leader, a teacher, and a Texan. The philosophy he instilled in his staff and demonstrated by example in his daily work come from James P. Owen's book, ``Cowboy Values.'' As he concludes his military career and rides off to face even tougher endeavors, he takes Owen's ``Code of the West,'' with him: Live each day with courage. Take pride in your work. Always finish what you start. Do what has to be done. Be tough, but fair. When you make a promise, keep it. Ride for the brand. Talk less and say more. Remember that some things aren't for sale. Know where to draw the line. I am proud to share in the celebration of LTG Oates' military career, recognizing both his extraordinary leadership of JIEDDO and his distinguished military service.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words.

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Chairman, I stand in opposition to this amendment for a few reasons, not any as eloquent as the ones that have already been stated but for some fairly simple reasons, I think. Number one, what if one of us here, one of us Members, a Congressman, earmarked a $100 billion project today? If it were one of us who did this, who said that we're going to give this one job worth $100 billion to one company, I think there would be an outcry from all over. We don't do that anymore, and there's a reason we don't do it anymore: Because it leads to corruption, and it leads to people doing things that they should not be doing. We shouldn't give the DOD the same-- let's call it--temptations to have to give a $100 billion contract to one company. Number two, competition. It's interesting now to see how things have switched where you have folks that have been talking about competition when it comes to health care, competition when it comes to business now saying that competition's going to bring quality down and bring costs up. That's not what competition does, Mr. Chairman. What competition does is bring quality up and bring costs down. I think there is definitely bipartisan agreement on that. And number three, I served in Afghanistan on my third tour and, when I was over there about midway through in 2007, an F-18 went down. It went down here stateside, and the reason it went down is it had a cracked wing, and what we didn't know at that time is if that was an inherent flaw in the F-18 structure. So what we did in Afghanistan is we shut down all F-18 flights. In fact, the world over, F-18 flights were shut down until we could figure out if this problem was inherent in all F-18s or if it was just one problem for that one particular F- 18. If this happens with the F-35, with just one engine, we're going to ground the free world's new jet. That's what will be grounded, because the F-35 is being sold to other countries. It's being used by all of our services except for the Army, and if it goes down and we have to stop flight for it, it could put people in harm's way. That's why this is, frankly, not a money issue or a jobs issue. This is an issue of operational risk. You should have a backup engine for the main engine for the main fighter for this Nation and other nations going forward. So with that, Mr. Chairman, I oppose this amendment.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Reclaiming my time, Mr. Chairman, $400 million is a lot of money, and Americans do need that money. But I would answer that with this: The men and women that have given their lives over in Afghanistan, the men and women, as you well know, representing Camp Lejeune and all of those marines, the men and women that have given their time and their blood for this country I think deserve to be backed up by us by saying we are going to give the money to your boss, General Petraeus, so we can win the war and leave victoriously, and I think that is what I think this $400 million does. With that, I oppose the gentleman's amendment.

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words.

Mr. HUNTER. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. First, I believe my friend from North Carolina does have the best intentions at heart. I believe he is doing this for the right reason. He wants to get out of Afghanistan and he believes that Afghanistan is a very corrupt country with very corrupt leadership. The problem is, is that things in this world aren't perfect. I served for 6 months in the Marine Corps in Afghanistan in 2007. I didn't do anything of significance, but when I was there I saw what really turned the people of Afghanistan towards America, what made them turn around, what made them change their mind. It wasn't us killing people who cause us to stay up at night and worry about them. That's what we're worried about. What the Afghans are worried about is, will they have electricity? Can they drive on the roads? Can they put fruit in their Mack truck and drive it 20 miles and sell it at the next town? Do their lights work? Is their trash getting picked up? Is their sewer getting cleaned out? General Petraeus understands this is counterinsurgency. That's what counterinsurgency means. I want to get out of Afghanistan, too. It is an expensive war in blood and treasure, but it is a war that was not started by us. It was started by two airplanes flying into two towers. And 9/11 has cost us more than Afghanistan ever will in what it has done to this Nation, making us second guess who our friends are, sending us to Afghanistan. I would ask my friend from North Carolina this, and I am going to yield the balance of my time to my friend from North Carolina: If we are not the ones helping out the Afghan people, I will tell you who it is going to be--the Taliban. The Taliban are the bankers of Afghanistan. They have drug money and they use it to loan to the locals in Afghanistan. So if we don't help them out, if we don't become their friends, if we don't befriend the people, the counterinsurgency doesn't work. I think that my friend, if he knew that we would leave quicker, we would leave Afghanistan in victory quicker by keeping this money there, I think he would withdraw his amendment. Mr. Chairman, I yield to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Jones).

Mr. HUNTER. Reclaiming my time, this is an interagency fund, DOD, State Department, USAID, different American agencies. They are going to be the ones distributing this money. I doubt Karzai ever sees this money, as it would go straight to contractors, either Afghan or from here, from the U.S., or other countries. I yield to the gentleman.

Mr. HUNTER. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, today, I am introducing the Fairness for Military Recruiters Act, legislation to ensure that America's military recruiters are not denied or unfairly restricted access to high school campuses. Most students on the verge of completing high school undoubtedly think about the future. For some, immediately entering college is an option. Others choose to follow a different path, including taking full advantage of the benefits and educational opportunities offered through military service. The intent of the Fairness for Military Recruiters Act is straightforward. The legislation simply reaffirms and strengthens existing federal law, enacted in 2002 under the No Child Left Behind, NCLB, Act, providing military recruiters the same access to high school campuses and basic student contact information that is provided to other institutions of higher education. Before the enactment of NCLB, it was reported that nearly 2,000 high schools across the country either banned military recruiters from campuses or restricted access to student directories. In the years since the implementation of NCLB, despite early opposition from several school boards and administrators, most schools ultimately altered their policies and allowed some form of recruiter access. Under current law, any high school that receives federal education funding must provide military recruiters access to its campus and student directory--the same access provided to colleges and universities. Schools are also required to notify parents and students of their right to ``opt-out,'' which occurs when a parent or student 18 years of age requests not to be contacted by a military recruiter. This is a balanced approach to ensuring that students are familiar with the multitude of education and career opportunities offered by any one of the military service branches. Military service promotes discipline and a strong work-ethic. Young Americans should not be discouraged from serving their country or, at the very least, considering the benefits of serving in the armed forces with the assistance of a military recruiter. The American military is an all-volunteer force. Without patriotic and talented young Americans continuing to step forward, end-strength won't be the only thing adversely affected. So will American security. Despite the necessity to recruit qualified candidates for the armed forces, there are some school administrators and activist groups who vehemently oppose the idea of military recruiters in high schools. There are reported instances of groups, known as ``counter- recruiters,'' attending parent-teacher conferences and distributing opt-out forms. In one case last year, the New York Civil Liberties Union sent volunteers to stand outside 24 high schools, in the interest of discouraging students from interacting with military recruiters. Others take a different approach. Amy Hagopian, a professor of Global Health at the University of Washington, who is equally committed to ending recruitment in high schools, wrote an article for the American Journal of Public Health that compares military recruiters with child sex predators. She alleges that military recruiter behavior is ``disturbingly similar to predatory grooming.'' What an insult to anyone who has ever worn a uniform in defense of our nation, especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom. The ultimate goal of Hagopian--who was behind the first successful effort to close the door on military recruiters in high schools--and others who share the same viewpoint is nothing less than a complete, across-the-board prohibition against military recruiters. Meanwhile, some school administrators have creatively interpreted notification and consent requirements in the interest of limiting campus visits or access to student contact information. There are numerous examples of this occurring, but a recent decision by the San Diego Unified School District, which incorporates several high schools in my congressional district, restricts all recruiters--military and private--to only two visits a year and needlessly complicates recruiter-student interaction. This decision is in fact consistent with federal law since military recruiters are provided the exact same access as private recruiters. But most private recruiters interface with students far less regularly than military recruiters. Often time, private recruiter interactions are limited to college or career fairs, instead relying on other forms of advertising and outreach. Military recruiters on the other hand have a steadier presence in high schools and, while it is absolutely necessary that these recruiters follow school guidelines and not interfere with individual learning, decisions like this, whether intended or not, are a significant step toward shutting the door on our military. When it comes to ``opting-out,'' students and parents should make that decision on their own, without undue influence from activists and administrators with anti-military bias. Families that recognize and honor the commitment of our military to defending freedom should not be represented by the small minority of those who actively seek to marginalize or even denigrate the armed forces. The legislation I am introducing protects the rights of parents and students to opt-out while also maintaining military recruiter access to high school campuses and directories. Schools would still be obligated to notify parents and students of their options, ensuring there is a mechanism in place that prevents contact information from being released. The alternative suggested by some of my colleagues, in anticipation of the upcoming reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, is to create an opt-in process. In other words, military recruiters would be denied access to student information unless a parent sends in a release authorization form. They question whether the recruitment provision violates a student's right to privacy, even though it's consistent with federal law and court-tested privacy rights. An analysis by the Congressional Research Service acknowledges this fact, noting that, unlike medical records, the basic information available to recruiters is no different than information ``typically found in a phone book.'' The Fairness for Military Recruiters Act specifically prohibits the implementation of an opt-in process and clarifies the notification and consent requirement by placing the personal information and career interests of students firmly in the control of parents. Mr. Speaker, our national security hinges on brave Americans coming forward to volunteer for military service. Restricting recruiter access to high schools would not only reduce the quality and effectiveness of the military, but also constrain the ability of students to consider military career and education opportunities.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, it's with a profound sense of appreciation and respect that I rise today to acknowledge the contribution of Steve Hamann to the San Diego community. Steve was recently named 2010 Citizen of the Year for the city of El Cajon, which I am proud to represent in Congress. Each of the candidates in the running for Citizen of the Year would have been an excellent choice, but Steve's tireless work and charity on behalf of so many others puts him in a class by himself. Anyone who knows Steve understands that his purpose is not derived from self-motivation. His commitment to helping others showcases his good nature and moral character, demonstrated through more than 16 years of charity work, where he raised millions of dollars for numerous causes. All of it on donated time and without compensation--a mark of true dedication and purpose. Such an extraordinary level of involvement is why Steven is known around East County San Diego as the ``Auctioneer Extraordinaire.'' He has spent countless hours hosting events each year--more than 80 in one year, in fact--and, thankfully for all us, he shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. A member of the Rotary Club of El Cajon, Steve embodies the Rotarian motto of ``Service above Self.'' The list of organizations Steve lends his time and efforts to support is long, but certainly worth noting. He is well known for his work with the Boys and Girls Clubs of East County, Stoney's Kids, St. Madeleine Sophie's Center, the East County Salvation Army, The East County Chamber of Commerce, the El Cajon Community Development Center, the El Cajon Elks Lodge, the Heartland Boy Scouts, the Cajon Valley Union School District, the Grossmont Union High School District, the Grossmont Cuyamaca College District, the Mother Goose Parade, the Home of Guiding Hands, the El Cajon Recreation Department, the East County YMCA, the Grossmont Hospital Foundation and the Olaf Wieghorst Museum. Aside from his sterling reputation, I got to better know Steve as the moderator for the East County Chamber of Commerce's Congressional Debates. The one thing about Steve in this setting is that he has always been as firm as he has been fair, demonstrating his objectivity while asking tough questions that help better inform community residents about their choices entering election season. Steve is also Editor-in-Chief for the East County Herald newspaper, where he focuses on promoting most of El Cajon's events and featuring those events in quality photo series. This is just one more service to the community that Steve provides. Many San Diegans, as do most Americans, often wonder if they are making a difference in their communities or do enough to help influence the lives of others. Steve is a good example of someone who should never have to wonder whether they are making an impact. The evidence is in his work, hours dedicated and results. Steve serves as an excellent example to others too, reminding us all that a little time and attention to helping others goes a very long way. I cannot say enough about Steve. He is an ambassador for our community and, without question, makes El Cajon a better place for each one of its residents. I want to thank Steve for his work and congratulate him on the Citizen of the Year award. His wife of 32 years, Lorraine, and his children Sarah and Ben, undoubtedly share Steve's enthusiasm and good nature. I want to extend my thanks and appreciation to them too. So, Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Steve Hamann and wishing him continued success in all future endeavors. The El Cajon community and our nation benefit from Steve's leadership, as well as others who commit their lives to causes bigger than themselves.

Mr. HUNTER

Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jonathan D. Olsen for his involvement in the San Diego community. Jonathan is a lifelong resident of Santee, California, having graduated from Santana High School and finalizing his bachelor of arts degree in 2011. Jonathan has served as the president of the Santee Chamber of Commerce, is leading a successful organization and serves the community with distinction. He is a thriving businessman in Santee, having worked in the Santee community management and operating several business endeavors. He has great abilities in working and managing his family's doughnut shops and other businesses. Jonathan also has been active in the development of the special edition of the Echo, the Santee Street Fair, Business Expos, the Santee Car Show, and the Santee Chamber of Commerce Awards Night. Under his leadership, several successful community events were organized. These include the Miss Santee-Teen Pageant, Sunrise Santee Morning mixers and programs, business-after-five monthly business networking meetings, Santee Day at the County Fair, Fall Frenzy-City Wide Sale and Craft Fair, SCORE Counseling-SBA counseling, installation and retreat planning and numerous ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremonies. Jonathan is also involved in speaking to high school and college students concerning their goals and aspirations. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor to stand in recognition of Jonathan Olsen for his tireless work as a member of the San Diego community. Such an extraordinary level of dedication serves as an example to others and showcases the goodness that community service, charity and strong local leadership could have on impacting the lives of others. I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Jonathan and wishing him continued success in the future.