Richard Hudson

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Howard Irvin on receiving the Cabarrus County Bar Association Liberty Bell Award. A native of North Carolina, Mr. Irvin graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Law School before beginning his legal career in 1965 as a lieutenant in the Judge Advocate General's Corps for the United States Navy. After his service to our nation, Mr. Irvin joined the law practice of his father, E. Johnston Irvin, before limiting his practice to real estate law in 1971. Mr. Irvin is a consummate professional and boasts over fifty years of legal service to his community and has continuously adapted to changes in real estate law to best protect his clients. He has handled over thirty-five thousand real estate closings during his career. The Liberty Bell Award is presented to an individual that goes forth to educate on and upholds laws that support American freedom. Throughout his involvement in Cabarrus County, Mr. Irvin has helped many people regain their confidence in our judicial system by being a constant resource of knowledge. There is no doubt in my mind that Mr. Irvin will continue to help the people of Cabarrus County with his unwavering commitment to the law and serving others. Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Howard Irvin as the Cabarrus County Bar Association Liberty Bell Award recipient and wish him well as he continues to uphold our American freedom.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, Newtown, Parkland, Las Vegas, Sutherland Springs, Charleston, the attack on our former colleague, Gabrielle Giffords, these are all tragedies that would not have been prevented by H.R. 8 or H.R. 1446. My colleagues across the aisle don't want to admit it, but every commercial gun sale in America already requires a background check. In Charleston, there was no loophole. The problem was information sharing. If the FBI had checked all available databases, then Dylan Roof wouldn't have been allowed to purchase a firearm. Congressman Tom Rice of South Carolina has a bill to fix that. Republicans are serious about ending gun violence and have brought forward policies that protect public safety without eroding our Second Amendment rights. That is why in recent years we have passed measures like the STOP School Violence Act, the Fix NICS Act, and 21st Century Cures Act. The bills before us this week would not build upon this progress but strips away from law-abiding citizens their rights. H.R. 8 would turn law-abiding citizens into criminals if you store a gun for a friend or loan a firearm to a neighbor with an abusive ex who wanted to borrow it for self-protection. Even worse, H.R. 1446 would extend the waiting period for a firearms sale from 3 to 10 business days and allow the government to delay a transfer indefinitely. Indefinitely, as in forever, if a government bureaucrat says so. Instead of these gun-grabbing bills, House Republicans are bringing forward targeted solutions. That is why I introduced the STOP II: Classrooms Over Conference Rooms Act to double funding for the STOP School Violence Act to harden schools, to get more mental health resources in schools, and increase active-shooter training for law enforcement. And we pay for it by taking money set aside for the Department of Education to rent conference rooms in Washington, D.C. However, the left is determined to take away your rights, after voting to defund the police just last week. It is no wonder gun sales and concealed carry permits are at all-time highs. These law-abiding Americans deserve to have their rights protected. That is why today, I am calling on my colleagues across the aisle to stand up for law-abiding citizens and adopt H.R. 38, the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act. H.R. 38 is a bipartisan and commonsense bill that ensures people like Shaneen Allen, a single mother from south Philly, don't become criminals for carrying a legally owned firearm across an invisible State line. We need H.R. 38 more than ever. And if my colleagues are determined to pass gun legislation, then let's help people protect themselves. Mr. Speaker, if we adopt the motion to recommit today, we will instruct the Judiciary Committee to consider my amendment to H.R. 1446 to include my bill, H.R. 38, the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act. I ask unanimous consent to insert the text of the amendment in the Record immediately prior to the vote on the motion to recommit.

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Joseph Vaughn for his 16 years of service, including three years as Director at the W.G. (Bill) Hefner Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Salisbury, North Carolina. I have seen his extraordinary leadership firsthand and know how much he means to this community and to our veterans. Mr. Vaughn began his career in 1983 with the United States Navy, where he served for ten years and completed four Mediterranean cruises before being awarded the Navy Achievement Medal. He retires today after over a decade of combined service at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. After being appointed Director on March 19, 2018, he immediately began the important work that would one day transform both the Salisbury VA and the surrounding community. Mr. Vaughn led implementation of the VA MISSION Act, saw facility complexity increase from 1c to 1b, opened ambulatory surgery at VA Health Care Centers in Charlotte and Kernersville, saw the Community Living Center obtain a 5- star quality rating for multiple rating periods, and stimulated major improvements in Hospital Rating (HCAPS). In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Mr. Vaughn's quick actions saved many lives and protected countless others through mass vaccination events. Renee and I would like to extend our most heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Vaughn for his years of exemplary service at the Salisbury VA. I know I speak for our entire community in wishing him continued success and happiness as he moves on to his next great adventure. Madam Speaker, please join me today in honoring Joseph Vaughn upon his retirement as Director at the W.G. (Bill) Hefner Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Republican Conference, I offer a privileged resolution and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Republican Conference, I offer a privileged resolution and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Godfrey Fondinka. A beloved member of our community, Dr. Fondinka's life was marked by an unwavering commitment to medicine and service to others. Dr. Fondinka was born in Cameroon, Africa where he began a life of distinction. After completing his medical education in Cameroon, he studied hospital management at Technion--Israel Institute of Technology. Dr. Fondinka then moved to the United States, where he received a Master of Public Health from Tulane University before completing a residency in family medicine at LSU Shreveport in 2003. Dr. Fondinka worked tirelessly on behalf of his patients and our community. He served as an emergency room physician at the Fayetteville VA Medical Center until 2010, when he founded an urgent care practice in Fayetteville, North Carolina. On the frontlines of our community's battle against COVID-19, Dr. Fondinka saved countless lives and, to him, our nation owes an immeasurable debt. Dr. Fondinka passed away on December 18, 2020, and my thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Florence; his children, Tuma, Ghinna, Babilla, and Khamali; and all who knew and loved him. I join our entire community in gratitude as we honor his extraordinary life. Madam Speaker, please join me today in honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Godfrey Fondinka.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, as we move forward and heal from the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, I rise to honor U.S. Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman. An Iraq combat veteran and former member of the XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg, Officer Goodman was an American hero long before he valiantly protected this body. Officer Goodman risked his life on January 6, 2021, as he lured a violent mob away from an unguarded entrance to the U.S. Senate Chamber. His courageous actions that day protected our colleagues, their staff, and our democracy. Officer Goodman represents the very best of law enforcement, and to him our nation owes an immeasurable debt. As Fort Bragg's Congressman, I extend my most heartfelt appreciation to Officer Goodman on behalf of North Carolina and our entire country. Madam Speaker, please join me today in honoring U.S. Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 100th anniversary of the Kiwanis Club of Fayetteville, located in North Carolina's Eighth Congressional District. Since a small group of businessmen met with Kiwanis International on November 10, 1920, the Kiwanis Club of Fayetteville has made countless contributions to our community. Over the years, the Kiwanis Club of Fayetteville has embodied its motto of ``Serving the Children of the World.'' As a fierce advocate for our children and youth, the organization has supported clinics for disabled infants, driving instruction for teenagers, and the construction of an athletic facility at Fayetteville High School, now Terry Sanford High School. I know I speak for our entire community in offering my most heartfelt gratitude to the Kiwanis Club of Fayetteville for their century of service. These exemplary men and women are the heart and soul of our community and I wish them continued success as they serve our community. Madam Speaker, please join me today in honoring the 100th anniversary of the Kiwanis Club of Fayetteville.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, by direction of the Republican Conference, I offer a privileged resolution and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, during this challenging year I have periodically taken the floor to update my Congressional colleagues on my continued work with our friends and allies across the Atlantic as we confront the challenges facing Europe and beyond. This has included not only the direct impact of the COVID pandemic itself on public and economic health but also in regard to ongoing issues like Russian aggression, the violation of human rights in Belarus and other countries, and the common threat all countries face from terrorism. Today, I take the floor to praise one of our best friends and allies in these efforts, George Tsereteli, who is stepping down as President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly--the OSCE PA--as a result of leaving the parliament of the Republic of Georgia. During his tenure as President, I have significantly deepened my engagement in this valuable forum, including being appointed by President Tsereteli earlier this year to serve as chair of the OSCE PA committee dealing with security matters. George Tsereteli is a true leader. During his time as President of the OSCE PA, he has spoken out forcefully against the violation of the Helsinki Principles which guide relations between OSCE countries and emphasized the linkages between these principles. That includes condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine and other neighbors, including his own country of Georgia. That also includes condemning the violation of human rights that is today so brutally evident in Belarus but has in fact been an ongoing issue there as well as in Russia and far too many other OSCE countries. True peace, in his view, requires respect for human rights. At the same time, George worked with parliamentarians from across the OSCE region, respecting their more specific concerns on a variety of issues, from combatting corruption to environmental protection, and giving them a venue to raise these issues in this multilateral forum. In this sense, George Tsereteli represents his country well. He understands that, if the international community is to assist Georgia with the challenges it faces, Georgians must make their contribution to security and cooperation across Europe, the OSCE region and beyond. George Tsereteli is also a true friend of the United States and of the Congress. He keeps in close contact with me and other Members from both sides of the aisle. George does the same with our colleagues in the Senate. When he visits the United States, George never fails to reach out. In between, despite his heavy schedule, George is always available when we need his input. In his speeches, George regularly recognizes the good work done by the U.S. Helsinki Commission. Finally, George Tsereteli understands that it is not only diplomats or parliamentarians who contribute to positive change. He has engaged and supported those individuals who, as opposition leaders, journalists or human rights advocates, act upon their own human rights to defend the human rights of others, indeed those of all citizens. This was evident in his support for efforts by many of us to hold accountable those who were truly responsible for the murder of Russian opposition figure Boris Nemtsov, or his suggestions on how best to respond to the assault on the citizenry today in Belarus. Those of us who have engaged through the OSCE PA will miss having George Tsereteli leading our debates from the dais, but I am sure we will continue to have opportunities to work with him in his future endeavors. I am also sure that, passing the gavel to Peter Lord Bowness of the United Kingdom as OSCE PA President, he has left a healthy institution in capable hands. As the Assembly undertakes this leadership transition, I want to assure my colleagues here in Congress and in the OSCE PA of my own enduring commitment to advancing the interests of the United States and of its many friends and partners throughout the OSCE region. On a more personal note, I consider myself blessed to call George Tsereteli my friend. He has mentored me, encouraged me, and given me extraordinary opportunities to be a voice for my constituents and our nation on the international stage. George's humor and kindness have enriched my life and the lives of all those who have been fortunate enough to crossed his path. Madam Speaker, please join me today in saluting the service of George Tsereteli as the longest serving leader in the history of the OSCE PA as well as recognizing the importance of continued Congressional engagement with the Parliamentary Assembly of the OSCE.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a hero-- Concord Police Department Officer Jason Shuping. On the night of December 16, 2020, Officer Shuping was among the first law enforcement officers on the scene to respond to an attempted carjacking. The suspect opened fire, striking Officer Shuping and another first responder--Officer Kaleb Robinson. Though wounded, Officer Robinson, aged 23-years-old, stood guard over his fellow officer as other officers arrived on the scene and engaged the gunman. Robinson was rushed to the hospital and is expected to make a full recovery. Tragically, Officer Shuping lost his life, succumbing to the gunshot wound he sustained. Officer Shuping was just 25-years-old and had been with the Concord Police Department for 18 months. Prior to joining the department, Officer Shuping graduated from UNC Pembroke and East Rowan High School. He was an athlete in both high school and college, as well as a North Carolina scholar graduate. Officer Shuping not only leaves behind his loving family, but his entire Concord Police Department Family led by Chief Gary Gacek--an exceptional leader and my friend. Today, I urge my colleagues to join me in praying for the family of fallen Officer Shuping, as well as for healing for Officer Robinson and the entire Concord Police Department community. We will never forget the sacrifice of Officer Shuping and all those who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe, as well as the sacrifice of their families. At this time, I ask my colleagues to join me to honor the life of Officer Shuping.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Carl Wilkerson, a dear friend and inspiration to many throughout North Carolina's Eighth Congressional District. Mr. Wilkerson was born on March 7, 1935 to the late Willie Wilkerson and Anna Irene White Wilkerson. A native of Rowan County, he served over 32 years as the custodian at China Grove Elementary School. Mr. Wilkerson made a profound difference in this community. We often highlight educators and their influence on the lives of children. Carl Wilkerson made an impact on the lives of all the children educated at China Grove Elementary School. Former students and educators alike remember that Carl always had a kind word for everyone, encouraged students and made each one feel special. He is the perfect example of a person who quietly but surely makes a community great. Mr. Wilkerson passed away on November 22, 2020 and left behind a legacy of kindness and compassion. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all who knew and loved him. Mr. Wilkerson will live on in the hearts and minds of all who felt his kindness and I join the entire community in honoring his quiet, but extraordinary life. Madam Speaker, please join me today in honoring the life and legacy of Carl Wilkerson.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my friend and my colleague, Congressman Greg Walden, on his retirement, following more than 20 years representing Oregon's Second District here in Congress. As a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Chairman Walden has been a real mentor to me. I have seen firsthand Chairman Walden's love for his country, dedication to his district, and hard work on so many important priorities for our Nation, like healthcare, energy independence, and telecommunications. I have so many fond memories of the work we have done together and the time we have spent. I especially enjoyed working with Chairman Walden on H.R. 6, landmark legislation to combat the opioid crisis. Chairman Walden, you will be dearly missed, but I wish you, Mylene, Anthony, and your entire family all the best. I urge my colleagues to join me in thanking Congressman Greg Walden for his extraordinary service.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Robert ``Bobby'' Smith for more than three decades of service to our country, our state, and our community. A U.S. Navy veteran and leader in emergency management, Mr. Smith's public service has spanned more than 34 years. Mr. Smith began his career in 1985 as a Telecommunicator and Emergency Medical Technician for Guilford County Emergency Medical Services. Over his career in public service he has also served as a firefighter, hazardous materials technician, rescue technician, fire inspector, and Chief Fire Investigator. During his work in Emergency Management he has developed, tested, and implemented numerous response, recovery, mitigation, preparedness and continuity plans, and has been an integral part of emergency operations during national events and disasters. Today, he retires as Director of Emergency Management and Fire Services for Cabarrus County. Over the years, Mr. Smith has proven to be a strong and effective leader and our region is better and more prepared due to his work. He has served as Unified Incident Commander during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic; coordinated response to a number of declared natural disasters; served as a member of the Domestic Preparedness Region (DPR 7) Committee, North Carolina Emergency Management Association Legislative Committee, and Rowan Cabarrus Community College Emergency Management Advisory Committee; and worked closely with the Local Emergency Planning Committee to develop emergency response infrastructure for local businesses. An exemplary public servant, Mr. Smith represents the best our nation has to offer and we will look up to his leadership for generations to come. I know I speak for everyone in our community when I say we are truly grateful for his tireless service and cannot thank him enough. I would like to offer my most heartfelt appreciation and wish him a long and happy retirement. Madam Speaker, please join me today in honoring Robert ``Bobby'' Smith for his 34 years of public service.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Thaddeus W. Gay, Sr., a true American hero and inspiration to many throughout North Carolina's Eighth Congressional District. Mr. Gay was born on June 27, 1922 and after graduating from West Southern Pines ``Rosenwald'' School, he attended North Carolina A&T State University before enlisting in the U.S. Army during the height of World War II. A decorated military servant, Mr. Gay served our great nation in New Guinea and the South Pacific and received the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal with a bronze service star, Good Conduct Medal, and World War II Victory Medal. Mr. Gay represents the best our nation has to offer and served with honor and distinction until 1944. Following the war, he found success running various small businesses and even sought patents for several of his inventions. Mr. Gay's service to our community extended far beyond his military service and entrepreneurial success. He was a tireless advocate on behalf of the West Southern Pines Civic Club, the Rufus L. McLaughlin American Legion Post No. 177, the Southern Pines Land and Housing Trust, and the NAACP. Mr. Gay passed away on October 20, 2020 and left behind a legacy of extraordinary accomplishment. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all who knew and loved him. Mr. Gay will live on in the hearts and minds of all who felt his kindness and I join the entire community in honoring his extraordinary life. Madam SPEAKER, please join me today in honoring the life and legacy of Thaddeus W. Gay, Sr.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize City of Fayetteville Police Department Officer Michael Tackema as a recipient of the Public Safety Valor Award, presented annually by the Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. The Valor Award is a prestigious honor presented to men and women of the Fayetteville region who perform acts of heroism under extreme risk. An outstanding member of Fayetteville Police Department, Officer Tackema went beyond his call of duty on July 5, 2019. Upon arrival to a domestic disturbance call, the scene escalated quickly and became dangerous when the homeowner opened fire from within the residence. As other officers were forced to take cover, Officer Tackema placed himself in the line of fire to protect his team and engage the subject. Officer Tackema is a hero and that day he not only saved the lives of his fellow officers, but the lives of countless civilians as well. His quick actions, bravery, and dedication to service is a credit to him, his family, and the entire Fayetteville Police Department. I know I speak for everyone in our community when I say we are truly grateful for his unwavering service and cannot thank him enough. Officer Tackema is deserving of this honor, and I would like to extend my most sincere appreciation and wish him success as he continues to protect our communities. Madam Speaker, please join me today in celebrating City of Fayetteville Police Department Officer Michael Tackema for receiving the Public Safety Valor Award.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Cape Fear Valley Emergency Medical Services Paramedic Kimberli R. Wheeler as a recipient of the Public Safety Valor Award, presented annually by the Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. The Valor Award is a prestigious honor presented to men and women of the Fayetteville region who perform acts of heroism under extreme risk. An outstanding member of Cape Fear Valley EMS, Ms. Wheeler went beyond her call of duty when responding to a 911 call. After her ambulance was struck by a motor vehicle and inverted, Ms. Wheeler saved the lives of two individuals who were critically injured on the scene. As she hung from her seat belt, she checked on her partner and calmed an alarmed EMS student. Bystanders assisted in freeing her and her team from the ambulance, and Ms. Wheeler immediately began to render aid to the critically injured victims in the other vehicle. Ms. Wheeler's quick actions, bravery, and dedication to service is a credit to her, her family, and Cape Fear Valley EMS. I know I speak for everyone in our community when I say we are truly grateful for her unwavering service and cannot thank her enough. Ms. Wheeler is deserving of this honor, and I would like to extend my most sincere appreciation and wish her success as she continues to protect our communities. Madam Speaker, please join me today in celebrating Cape Fear Valley EMS Paramedic Kimberli R. Wheeler for receiving the Public Safety Valor Award.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize City of Fayetteville Firefighter Justin White as a recipient of the Public Safety Valor Award, presented annually by the Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. The Valor Award is a prestigious honor presented to men and women of the Fayetteville region who perform acts of heroism under extreme risk. An outstanding member of the Fayetteville Fire Department, Firefighter White went beyond his call of duty on March 22, 2020. After responding to a motor vehicle accident alongside Lieutenant Joe Bumgarner and Captain Jason Hulon, Firefighter White heroically rescued a victim from a burning vehicle that was pinned to a tree. Remarkably, this feat was accomplished within two minutes and fifteen seconds of arriving on the scene. While Captain Hulon and Firefighter White got dressed in PPE, Lieutenant Bumgarner attempted to free the victim wearing only his turnout coat. When his superiors were pushed back by the intensity of the flames, Firefighter White saw an opening and pulled the victim to safety just as the vehicle's dash was encased in fire. He sought medical attention for the victim before successfully containing the remaining blaze. Firefighter White's quick actions, bravery, and dedication to service is a credit to him, his family, and the entire Fayetteville Fire Department. I know I speak for everyone in our community when I say we are truly grateful for his unwavering service and cannot thank him enough. Firefighter White is deserving of this honor, and I would like to extend my most sincere appreciation and wish him success as he continues to protect our communities. Madam Speaker, please join me today in celebrating City of Fayetteville Firefighter Justin White for receiving the Public Safety Valor Award.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize City of Fayetteville Police Department Detective Jonathan R. Miller as a recipient of the Public Safety Valor Award, presented annually by the Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. The Valor Award is a prestigious honor presented to men and women of the Fayetteville region who perform acts of heroism under extreme risk. An outstanding member of Fayetteville Police Department, Detective Miller went beyond his call of duty on the evening of Tuesday, August 29, 2019. While driving over a bridge, Detective Miller witnessed a driver lose consciousness at the wheel and swerve into oncoming traffic. He saw a woman in the other lane attempt to avert the oncoming vehicle and jumped into immediate action. Detective Miller pulled over and successfully stopped the moving vehicle before impact. After securing the scene, he called for medical assistance for the unconscious driver. Detective Miller is a hero and that night he prevented not only a head on collision, but also a possible second tragedy from occurring. His quick actions, bravery, and dedication to service is a credit to him, his family, and the entire Fayetteville Police Department. I know I speak for everyone in our community when I say we are truly grateful for his unwavering service and cannot thank him enough. Detective Miller is deserving of this honor, and I would like to extend my most sincere appreciation and wish him success as he continues to protect our communities. Madam Speaker, please join me today in celebrating City of Fayetteville Police Department Detective Jonathan R. Miller for receiving the Public Safety Valor Award.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Cape Fear Valley Emergency Medical Services Paramedic Hunter Fox as a recipient of the Public Safety Valor Award, presented annually by the Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. The Valor Award is a prestigious honor presented to men and women of the Fayetteville region who perform acts of heroism under extreme risk. An outstanding member of Cape Fear Valley EMS, Mr. Fox went beyond his call of duty on March 23, 2020. When his ambulance was overturned following a collision with a privately owned motor vehicle, Mr. Fox took command of the scene. In an act of heroic selflessness, he rendered aid to his partner, an EMS student, and the critically injured driver of the other vehicle. Working in conjunction with other EMS units, he successfully triaged all injured individuals and ensured that exceptional care was provided. Mr. Fox's quick actions, bravery, and dedication to service is a credit to him, his family, and Cape Fear Valley EMS. I know I speak for everyone in our community when I say we are truly grateful for his unwavering service and cannot thank him enough. Mr. Fox is deserving of this honor, and I would like to extend my most sincere appreciation and wish him success as he continues to protect our communities. Madam Speaker, please join me today in celebrating Cape Fear Valley EMS Paramedic Hunter Fox for receiving the Public Safety Valor Award.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the City of Fayetteville Police Department as a recipient of the Public Safety Valor Award, presented annually by the Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. The Valor Award is a prestigious honor presented to men and women of the Fayetteville region who perform acts of heroism under extreme risk. In honor of heroic efforts by the Fayetteville Police Department on July 5, 2019, this award recognizes the combined actions of Sergeant Steven Bates, Lieutenant Michael Mulcahy, and Officers Daniel Jackson, Hakim Madyun, James McLeod, Jared Backey, Jeffrey Prevatte, Nicholas Wrench, Rachel Wood, Robert Ostendorf, and Stephanie Collins. When responding to a 911 distress call about a hostage situation at a private residence, these courageous men and women were met with gunfire immediately upon arrival. In an incredible display of teamwork, they worked together and secured the scene, apprehended the subject, and removed the hostages without any civilian casualties. These men and women represent the best our nation has to offer, and I applaud them for their quick actions, bravery, and dedication to service. I know I speak for everyone in our community when I say we are truly grateful for their unwavering service and cannot thank them enough. The Fayetteville Police Department is deserving of this honor, and I would like to extend my most sincere appreciation and best wishes to them as they continue to protect our community. Madam Speaker, please join me today in celebrating the City of Fayetteville Police Department for receiving the Public Safety Valor Award.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate my friend Captain John A. Sweat, Jr. upon his induction into the North Carolina Military Veterans Hall of Fame. Over the years, CPT Sweat has answered historic calls to duty on behalf of our nation, state, and community. He began his extraordinary career in 1986 with the U.S. Air Force and served honorably in both Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. CPT Sweat's leadership extended far beyond the battlefield and he was named Active Duty Volunteer of the Year for his off-duty devotion to family services. CPT Sweat was selected as the Tactical Air Command First Term Airman of the Year and served in a special duty billet as an instructor at the Security Police Academy at Lackland Air Force Base. Following tours in Turkey, Florida, and Texas, CPT Sweat went on to join the North Carolina Air National Guard. Exemplary of his tireless leadership, he became the first officer to complete training with the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard. From his days at basic training to his 2011 retirement from the North Carolina Air National Guard, he only missed one day of service over his combined 24 years, 9 months, and 23 days of military service. He has led a career of distinction and is an effective, prolific leader. In addition to his military service, CPT Sweat has served on the Concord City Council since 2009. A tireless public servant, he has also served on the Racial Diversity Committee, Historic Commission, and the Planning and Zoning Commission for the City of Concord and is a member of the Habitat for Humanity Executive Board and Literacy Council for Cabarrus County. This year's class was selected by an independent selection committee that includes North Carolina military veterans and civilians. In total, a group of eighteen was chosen to join the ranks of our state's greatest heroes in the Hall of Fame. CPT Sweat is especially deserving of this honor and will now be enshrined forever for his remarkable contributions to our great nation and state. Madam Speaker, please join me today in congratulating CPT Sweat on his induction into the North Carolina Military Veterans Hall of Fame.