Sam Johnson

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, a new USA Today poll reported that three-fourths of those 18 to 34 don't expect to get a Social Security check when they retire. They deserve much better. In '35-- 1935, that is--workers were told that the payroll tax would never exceed 2 percent of the first $3,000 of earnings. Sadly, since then, Congress has raised the payroll tax 14 times, now at 12.4 percent, and the taxable wage base 10 times. Time and history prove Congress cannot resist the temptation to raise taxes on Social Security. We've got to find a better way forward without raising taxes, without any changes to those in or near retirement. Americans want action, not scare tactics. Let's start working together on fair, commonsense solutions so we can ensure Social Security will be there for those who need it most without raising taxes.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the recent accolades of the Third Congressional District of Texas. While I know it's a great place to live, work, and raise a family, clearly, other notable and even national publications have paid attention, too. For example, D Magazine put the spotlight on the best suburbs for Dallas; and 11 out of all 11 cities in the Third District outside of Dallas ranked among the top: Parker, Murphy, Allen, Sachse, Plano, Frisco, Wylie, McKinney, Rowlett, Richardson, and Garland. Money Magazine just named McKinney, Texas, as the fifth most desirable place to live in the Nation, while Allen took 16th and Rowlett claimed 24th. In addition, Newsweek featured 10 Third District high schools in June in the America's Best High Schools edition. My hat goes off to the people who make Texas places so special and the leaders who had the vision and courage to make their dreams for these communities a reality. Congratulations to all. God bless you. I salute you.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. You know, last week the House leader announced that Democrats will not craft a budget next year. Instead of going line by line to see what programs could be eliminated or reduced, they are ignoring the dire warnings of economists and continuing on their spending frenzy. No budget? No problem. Not enough money? No problem. They'll just raise taxes on the middle class, breaking their promise not to raise taxes on families earning less than $250,000. They need to produce a budget and stop the out-of-control spending that has pushed our national debt past $13 trillion. I don't know what's worse, failing to produce a budget or how the Democrats already have resigned to the fact they will raise taxes on middle class families to pay for their wasteful ways. Americans want, need, and deserve better. Make a budget, cut spending for our freedom and for our future.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Allen USA for uniting freedom, families, and fun. It's hometown events that promote quality together time while celebrating the bounty of America that make Texas a great place to call home. We're proud to remind folks that we're the land of the free because of the brave! My hat is off to the great folks at the City of Allen and Allen Parks Foundation who make Allen USA a success year after year. Below is information detailing this worthy celebration. It is an honor to be a part of it. God bless you all and I salute you one and all. Produced as a cooperative effort between the City of Allen and the Allen Parks Foundation, the Allen USA celebration is Allen's largest and most spectacular community event to say the least! Centered around the theme of being ``First to the Fourth'', Allen USA serves as the community's Fourth of July celebration, uniquely held the last Saturday of June every year. Being the last Saturday in June allows the event to be a stand out among area cities' celebrations and promotes attendance locally, regionally and state-wide. Allen USA began in 1995, taking place in the intimate surroundings of Bethany Lakes Park and Joe Farmer Recreation Center amphitheater. An estimated 5,000 people attended the first event complete with fireworks, a thrilling laser show and entertainment provided by the Allen Civic Chorus and other local talent. The phenomenal success from these humble beginnings led the event to move to a larger venue at Allen Station Park. Attendance grew to more than 20,000 as the entertainment included national recording artists such as Jerry Jeff Walker, Vince Vance and the Valiants, and others. In 2003, Allen USA exploded in attendance with a move to Allen's new 106 acre Celebration Park. Since that time, the event has grown to a regular attendance of up to 65,000 people and has included national recording artists such as Survivor, JT Taylor from Kool and the Gang, Eddie Money, 38 Special and Three Dog Night to name a few. There is truly something for everyone at Allen USA! A number of concessionaires will be on site selling all of your favorite festival foods and snacks. The Kids Zone hosts a multitude of bounce houses and play structures for children to enjoy. The Activity Zone provides fun and exciting entertainment for children and youth of all ages. This year our Main Stage will be rockin' with the tunes of the Commodores and, after what promises to be an exciting performance, the evening ends with one of the largest fireworks shows set to music in North Texas! And did we mention . . . admission is FREE! Allen USA also gives back to the community! A number of civic organizations support the event through countless volunteer hours to sell soft drinks, souvenirs and assist with festival activities. The event returns back to them a portion of the proceeds for their hard work and support! Many people have said that it's the memories they create at Allen USA that keeps them coming back year after year. The family friendly reputation of this event is what grabs other's attention to attend for the first time! But regardless of why people attend, at the end of the night, the smiles say it all! So come party in the park with us . . . you'll be glad you did!''

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. A recent New York Times poll indicates 54 percent of the public believe the President does not have a clear plan for creating jobs. Clearly, the failed $1 trillion stimulus plan created to keep unemployment below 8 percent shows the President's inability to lead. The dismal numbers come as the Democrats neglected to produce a budget and the majority leader announced the Democrats will raise taxes to pay for more government spending. I say: Cut government spending so you don't have to raise taxes. While they should be focused on creating jobs, the Democrats have proven the only thing they can do well is tax and spend. Here's a novel idea that the American people know from personal experience: Stop spending money you don't have.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the dire warnings of economists and the vivid lessons of Greece and of other debt-burdened European countries which are collapsing under their cradle-to-grave welfare systems have done nothing to restrain the Democrats in Washington. They have failed to heed the warnings from abroad, and they continue to simply declare their out-of-control spending as emergency spending to try to cover up their fiscal irresponsibility. As a constitutional conservative with grave concerns about the Democrats' out-of-control spending, I support a different plan. I say balance the budget; cut the deficit; pay down the debt; fire the czars; and grow the economy. With President Obama in control, the term ``GDP'' has taken on a whole new meaning--growing Democrats' programs.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Thank you, both of you over there on the Democrat side, for getting this bill out. Today marks a new milestone for those who fought in the forgotten war, which was Korea. And today the United States Congress recognizes the importance of their service and reaffirms our longstanding commitment to freedom and the future of Korea. As many know, it was June 25, 1950, when Communist North Korea invaded the Republic of Korea with 135,000 troops, and that sparked the start of the Korean War. And what people don't realize about Charlie Rangel is he could be dead because he was up on the Yalu River when the Chinese decided to come across. So he saved a lot of lives and buried a lot of guys. I thank you, Charlie, for that service. And Howard, I thank you as well for serving over there. On June 27, 1950, President Truman ordered the United States Armed Forces to help the Republic of Korea defend itself against the North Korean invasion. While it ended in an armistice, the bitter conflict between Korea and North Korea still lingers on. We all know that. Korea is a strong ally, and America remains committed to Korea's safety, survival, and success. By commemorating the 60th anniversary of the start of the Korean War, the United States Congress and the country rededicate our promise to thank those who wore the uniform during that time. An estimated 5 million valiant men and women served in the Korean War. As a Korean War veteran who flew 62 combat missions, it brings me great pleasure to remind Americans of the sacrifice and service of those who fought in Korea. To the esteemed Korean War veterans, you are not forgotten. We honor you, we appreciate you, God bless you. And I salute each and every one of you.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to salute our warriors of tomorrow, the service academy-bound students of the Third District of Texas. This area is home to some of the best and brightest young people, and I always consider it an honor to recommend such fine students to our Nation's service academies. Over the next four years, these men will study hard and excel in training. Upon graduation, each will join the premier military in the world, fighting to defend and uphold our Nation's belief in liberty. I am proud of each student's accomplishments and preserve this tremendous achievement for antiquity in the Congressional Record. Texas' Third Congressional District's 13 appointees, their hometowns and schools are as follows: United States Military Academy Michael Carr--Plano, Texas--Plano West Senior High School Jarvis Coburn--Dallas, Texas--Plano West Senior High School Steven Grim--McKinney, Texas--McKinney Boyd High School Michael Janowski--Murphy, Texas--Plano East Senior High School United States Naval Academy Aaron Dougherty--Garland, Texas--Garland High School Lyndon Moorehead--Murphy, Texas--Naval Academy Preparatory School United States Air Force Academy Hunter Birdsong--Sachse, Texas--Sachse High School Austin Hayes--Garland, Texas--Sachse High School Brandon Ostert--Plano, Texas--Plano Senior High School Daniel Simpson--Plano, Texas--Liberty High School United States Merchant Marine Academy Trevor Ball--Plano, Texas--Plano East Senior High School Matthew Craft--Murphy, Texas--Plano East Senior High School Nathan Ley--Plano, Texas--Plano Senior High School Congratulations are in order for these 13 appointees. God bless you, God bless America, and I salute you.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. A recent Gallup poll showed 79 percent of Americans now view the Federal debt as a serious threat to the future well-being of this Nation. It's no wonder because the administration just announced that the Nation's debt will reach 93 percent of GDP this year, a new high. Economic experts predict that unprecedented debt level could squash at least 1 million more jobs. The news came the same day the Labor Department reported that nearly all of the new jobs were temporary hires at the Census and some of them rehires at that. Make no mistake, the out-of-control government spending, coupled with the heavy debt, prevent us from creating the quality jobs and the bright future America Americans want, need, and deserve. It's time to get our fiscal house in order, once and for all. The stimulus, the bailouts, government-run health care: Enough is enough.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, a new poll shows that 63 percent of the American public wants to repeal the expensive government-run health spending law. Sixty-three percent represents the largest opposition to the law since its enactment. It's no surprise, as the law forces people to hand over their hard-earned tax dollars to a private company to buy health insurance or else. As a constitutional conservative, I have to agree with the 63 percent of American voters who want this expensive, irresponsible, overreaching law repealed and replaced. Democrats were wrong on the bill's cost, wrong on the effect on jobs, and wrong on the issue of taxpayer funding of abortions. We must stand in favor of repealing and replacing the government health spending bill with real reforms that lower health care costs without subjecting us to any nationalized health plan. America does not want, need, or deserve government-controlled health care.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Last week we learned that Uncle Sam ran up the largest deficit for April ever. Equally alarming is that our deficit is being financed by countries such as China, our biggest holder of U.S. Government debt. Equally important, a former Chinese military official recently suggested the Chinese should consider dumping U.S. treasuries in response to the recent Pentagon decision to sell defensive weapon systems to Taiwan. To raise awareness of the threat to our economy and national security of our exploding deficit and debt, yesterday I introduced the Foreign- Held Debt Transparency and Threat Assessment Act. This bill would require a better accounting of debt held by foreign countries and, more importantly, require the President to submit a plan to cut spending should either a particular foreign creditor or the overall debt pose a risk to the national security interests of America. We must not let any other country hold our national and economic interests hostage.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I stand before the House today to congratulate the Garland, Texas branch of Hilex Poly Company, LLC on the occasion of its tenth anniversary. Hilex Poly, the world's largest manufacturer of plastic bags, boasts ten manufacturing plants in eight states, including three in North Texas. The company's Texas facilities employ 235 full-time associates and produce everything from yellow caution tape for first responders to plastic wrap for Dallas Morning News deliveries. Founded as Sonoco Products Company in 1980, Hilex Poly has expanded from a small producer of the grocery sack-style ``t-shirt'' bag to an innovative leader in its field. A Hilex product can be found in nearly every household and business in the country, whether it's the GLAD Press'n Seal wrap keeping your leftovers fresh or the umbrella bag at the entrance to your office building. The inventive and environmentally-conscious company not only produces more plastic bags and films than any other firm worldwide, but also leads its industry in recycling. Through its ``Bag 2 Bag'' and ``Grey is the new Green'' programs, Hilex has created a new standard for the reuse of grocery sacks and other plastic bags. Leading by example, Hilex has influenced other plastic manufacturers to produce more grey, high recycled-content bags and lends its own state of the art recycling plant toward the achievement of that goal. The company's eco-friendly measures have also earned recognition through the United States Environmental Protection Agency's WasteWise program. For its standard of excellence in business, creation of ecological solutions, and ten years of top-notch production in the Third Congressional District of Texas, it is my pleasure to congratulate Hilex Poly Company, LLC. I salute you!

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Today, I'd like to congratulate the players and coaches of the Allen Americans Hockey Team for capturing the Southern Conference championship title. This is the first time a first- season team has accomplished this. After a stellar inaugural, winning season, the minor league hockey team earned a slot in the playoffs. They won two playoff series against Laredo and Odessa. Their final postseason game against the Rapid City Rush ended in a double overtime battle. It's no surprise they sent four players up to the American Hockey League. The Allen Americans play at the Allen Event Center, and folks should be proud to have such an accomplished, dedicated team representing their community. I've seen them--and they're good. I had the privilege of cheering on the Americans last season and I look forward to attending more games in the future. I wish the team and its players all the best. Congratulations. God bless you. I salute you. As the fans like to cheer: Dread the Red!

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Heritage Farmstead Museum, a living-history museum in Texas' third congressional district which maintains an authentic look at 19th century life on the Blackland Prairie of North Texas. The museum welcomes more than 30,000 visitors annually to its 4.5 acre working farm complex. Guests get a first-hand, educational look at old farming techniques, a blacksmith shop, an original school house, and the 14-room 1890 farmhouse which serves as the heart of the museum. Heritage Farmstead's visitors range from classes of local school children learning about prairie life to Girl Scout troops on camping adventures and area residents enjoying the museum's Fall Harvest Festival. Converted from a private home to a public museum in 1972, the Farmstead has been recognized by the Plano Landmark Association and the National Register of Historic Places. It also boasts a State of Texas Historical marker and was just recently reaccredited by the prestigious American Association of Museums. This designation makes the Heritage Farmstead Museum one of only two accredited museums in Collin County, 39 in Texas, and only 775 nationwide, a tremendous accomplishment. I am pleased to recognize this outstanding museum from my own hometown of Plano, Texas before the United States Congress today. For its tribute to our past through the education of our children, our future, I tip my hat to the AAM-reaccredited Heritage Farmstead Museum. Congratulations! God bless you, and I salute you.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, in honor of National Nurses Week, I would like to recognize the unsung heroes of our nation's healthcare system. The endless efforts of nurses can never be praised enough. This group of men and women work on the frontlines of healthcare. That is why I am proud to participate in National Nurses week and to lend my voice in recognizing these distinguished individuals for their true professionalism. Anyone who has spent time in a hospital or doctor's office knows that nurses play an integral role in our healthcare team. They work tirelessly to ensure every patient receives the special love, care and attention they deserve. A nurse's role goes far beyond the hospital; nurses reach into charity clinics, in-home care, churches, and school volunteer health programs. Nurses conduct research, publish, review and continue to educate their peers and the public about their ever-evolving role and positive impact on the healthcare community. Nurses across this country deserve the same support and consideration as they have given to us. Let us stand together today to honor their tireless work and selfless acts. God bless them and God bless America. I salute you.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. As a constitutional conservative I'm outraged by the unbridled, unchecked, unaccountable, and out-of-control government championed by the Democrats. The Wall Street rescue, the bailouts of Fannie and Freddie, the auto industry, cap-and-tax energy bill, the government takeover of health care, and court-martialing Navy SEALs while giving terrorists rights. Enough already. The complete lack of respect for the liberties espoused by our Founding Fathers has got to stop. That's why I am proud to announce my participation in a new group, the Tenth Amendment Task Force. The sole purpose of the caucus is to rekindle the truth and foundation of freedom, like promoting personal liberties and responsibilities, championing freedom and free enterprise, restoring States' rights, and reining in government spending. It's time to roll back big government and rejuvenate respect for the Constitution. Americans are just fed up and want to tell the government, ``Get off my back.''

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. During these tough economic times, many people are experiencing financial uncertainty. That's why on Saturday, May 8, at 9 a.m. in Plano, Texas, I will host a free workshop titled Recession Proofing Your Resources. I will host the free seminar in conjunction with Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Dallas. Unplanned emergencies like job loss, illness, natural disaster, or death can be overwhelming and financially taxing. Financial knowledge and a sound financial contingency plan are vital to ensuring that you and your family come out of this fiscal crisis in the black. Fortunately, there are ways to plan for unexpected life changes. An expert will be on hand to show people how to learn more. Visit SamJohnson.house.gov or you may RSVP by calling my Texas office in Richardson.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2009-2010 Congressional Youth Advisory Council. This year 45 students from public, private, and home schools in grades 9 through 12 made their voices heard and made a difference in their communities, their country and their Congress. These students volunteered their time, effort, and talent to inform me about the important issues facing their generation. As young leaders within their communities and their schools, these students boldly represent the promise and the hope we all have for their very bright future. President Ronald Reagan said, ``Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.'' To ensure that the blessing of freedom is passed from one generation to the next, the members of the CYAC spent time interviewing a veteran and documenting the experience for the ``Preserving History Project.'' Today I'm proud to submit the brief summaries provided so the patriotic service of our dedicated veterans and the thoughtful work of the CYAC may be preserved for antiquity in the Congressional Record. A copy of each submitted student summary follows. To each member of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council, thank you for making this year and this group a success. It is not a coincidence that this congressional tribute celebrates two generations of service. Each of you is trusted with the precious gift of freedom. You are the voices of the future and I salute you. God bless you and God bless America. The summary follows: Louis A. Giamporcaro served as a Technical Sergeant in WWII. He worked with all forms of communication: teletype, phone, radio, photography, etc and was responsible for copying Morse code to send messages to different places and receive incoming messages. In addition, he was ordered to intercept where bullet shells were coming from and give instructions to the artillery unit so they could respond. His team's main assignment was to act as a liaison between the American Army and the Italian Army and place the army on the allied side. Unfortunately, it never materialized. After my interview with Mr. Giamporcaro, I gained valuable insight that I would have never been able to obtain had I read my U.S. History textbook. War is real and it is not something to be taken lightly. Many Americans nowadays tend to forget that war is existent because it is not happening on U.S. soil. In addition, I believe the citizens of America have become a little less disturbed of the thought of a fallen soldier because death is a reoccurring, constant process. This should not be the case. Every lost life of a soldier results in a loss of a whole generation of Americans. I also learned that no matter what position a soldier has in the military, they are an integral part to the execution of battle plans. The military functions as one unit, which is supported by many different departments. As a result, we are called upon to recognize and shine light to the millions of unsung war heroes who fought for our country to provide for the general welfare of the people.--Julia Wang

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2009-2010 Congressional Youth Advisory Council. This year, 45 students from public, private, and home schools in grades 9 through 12 made their voices heard and made a difference in their communities, their country and their Congress. These students volunteered their time, effort, and talent to inform me about the important issues facing their generation. As young leaders within their communities and their schools, these students boldly represent the promise and the hope we all have for their very bright future. President Ronald Reagan said, ``Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.'' To ensure that the blessing of freedom is passed from one generation to the next, the members of the CYAC spent time interviewing a veteran and documenting the experience for the ``Preserving History Project.'' Today I'm proud to submit the brief summaries provided so the patriotic service of our dedicated veterans and the thoughtful work of the CYAC may be preserved for antiquity in the Congressional Record. A copy of each submitted student summary follows. To each member of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council, thank you for making this year and this group a success. It is not a coincidence that this congressional tribute celebrates two generations of service. Each of you is trusted with the precious gift of freedom. You are the voices of the future and I salute you. God bless you and God bless America. The summary follows: Sergeant Archie Lee Dyer joined the Marine Corps on November 22, 1967. He was only 19 years old at the time, but he was courageous enough to begin his journey as a soldier in the Vietnam War. As a granddaughter of Archie Dyer, I have gotten to know his military career well. It's amazing to sit and listen to the stories of my sweet, humble' and brave Pawpaw's journey as a Marine. His life has been shaped greatly because of his time spent in the Vietnam War and I am very lucky to have a brave grandfather who was willing to potentially sacrifice his life far our nation. Although he has created a successful pool company and had many other great successes in life, the one that can be most appreciated is his success as a Marine. I have learned so much about my Pawpaw by doing this interview. I have realized how passionate he is about protecting our nation by the way he continually holds his head high while telling stories of the ``good old days'' when he was a Marine. Although his time in the Vietnam War was a very trying experience, my Pawpaw never regrets his time spent braving the war and protecting our great nation. I am so proud of my Pawpaw for all that he has done and I am grateful to have had this experience to learn more about this man that I love and respect so much.--Caitlyn Woolum.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2009-2010 Congressional Youth Advisory Council. This year 45 students from public, private, and home schools in grades 9 through 12 made their voices heard and made a difference in their communities, their country and their Congress. These students volunteered their time, effort, and talent to inform me about the important issues facing their generation. As young leaders within their communities and their schools, these students boldly represent the promise and the hope we all have for their very bright future. President Ronald Reagan said, ``Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.'' To ensure that the blessing of freedom is passed from one generation to the next, the members of the CYAC spent time interviewing a veteran and documenting the experience for the ``Preserving History Project.'' Today I'm proud to submit the brief summaries provided so the patriotic service of our dedicated veterans and the thoughtful work of the CYAC may be preserved for antiquity in the Congressional Record. A copy of each submitted student summary follows. To each member of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council, thank you for making this year and this group a success. It is not a coincidence that this congressional tribute celebrates two generations of service. Each of you is trusted with the precious gift of freedom. You are the voices of the future and I salute you. God bless you and God bless America. The summary follows: I spent an evening with Staff Sergeant (SSG) Efrain Garcia, a member of the Texas Army National Guard, recipient of a Bronze Star and an Army Commendation Medal, currently serving his second term. That's right. A second term. You see, Staff Sergeant Garcia originally joined the U.S. Army when he was just a kid out of Grand Prairie High School, served seven years in the regular army, took a ten year break, and decided he missed the Army life so much, he reenlisted. SSG Efrain Garcia was a pleasant looking man, inoffensive in mannerism and he had a humble style of speaking. But, as he said best, ``The plumber working on your pipes could have a Silver Star. But so what? He's not going to tell you his life story, he's going to fix your pipes.'' Garcia shrugged, as his wife continued to inform us of his endless humility. It clearly wasn't recognition that drove him. It was something greater. It was the bond between men serving their country. When he had left the Army, it called to him, and finally--called him back. He is a man in his element. He doesn't need to brag. He just serves.--Ross Van de Kop

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2009-2010 Congressional Youth Advisory Council. This year 45 students from public, private, and home schools in grades 9 through 12 made their voices heard and made a difference in their communities, their country and their Congress. These students volunteered their time, effort, and talent to inform me about the important issues facing their generation. As young leaders within their communities and their schools, these students boldly represent the promise and the hope we all have for their very bright future. President Ronald Reagan said, ``Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.'' To ensure that the blessing of freedom is passed from one generation to the next, the members of the CYAC spent time interviewing a veteran and documenting the experience for the ``Preserving History Project.'' Today I'm proud to submit the brief summaries provided so the patriotic service of our dedicated veterans and the thoughtful work of the CYAC may be preserved for antiquity in the Congressional Record. A copy of each submitted student summary follows. To each member of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council, thank you for making this year and this group a success. It is not a coincidence that this congressional tribute celebrates two generations of service. Each of you is trusted with the precious gift of freedom. You are the voices of the future and I salute you. God bless you and God bless America. The summary follows: Like water that seeps through the cracks of our hands, history is continually being lost because it is not being written down. While interviewing Donald D. Simmons and documenting his experiences as a member of the Air Force during the Korean War, I felt that I became part of the quilt of history that is perpetually being woven. I hope by telling Don's story, I gave a veteran the full appreciation he deserved for what he had done for his country by ensuring that his story would never be forgotten. At the ripe young age of 18, Don decided to enlist in the Air Force. From 1952- 1954, he spent his days on a mountaintop north of Seoul where he repaired radar systems and monitored the search radar that was operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. After starting out as a private, he climbed the ranks to become a captain and received a Commendation Medal for his service in Korea. After the armistice was signed he continued college under the GI Bill at the University of Maryland where he studied electrical engineering. He is now the secretary of the Aircraft Control and Warning Group, a Korean War veterans' organization that holds annual reunions in cities across the United States, as well as a volunteer at Methodist Richardson Medical Center.--Cindy Wang.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2009-2010 Congressional Youth Advisory Council. This year 45 students from public, private, and home schools in grades 9 through 12 made their voices heard and made a difference in their communities, their country and their Congress. These students volunteered their time, effort, and talent to inform me about the important issues facing their generation. As young leaders within their communities and their schools, these students boldly represent the promise and the hope we all have for their very bright future. President Ronald Reagan said, ``Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.'' To ensure that the blessing of freedom is passed from one generation to the next, the members of the CYAC spent time interviewing a veteran and documenting the experience for the ``Preserving History Project.'' Today I'm proud to submit the brief summaries provided so the patriotic service of our dedicated veterans and the thoughtful work of the CYAC may be preserved for antiquity in the Congressional Record. A copy of each submitted student summary follows. To each member of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council, thank you for making this year and this group a success. It is not a coincidence that this congressional tribute celebrates two generations of service. Each of you is trusted with the precious gift of freedom. You are the voices of the future and I salute you. God bless you and God bless America. The Summary follows: The person whom I interviewed was Kirby Dean Luke, my stepfather. He married my mother four years ago, and ever since that day I have had a new found respect for the branches of the government. He ended his career as a Petty Officer first class/E6/M1 A. To me he has accomplished being a great soldier who has protected this country with his heart and soul. He accomplished being a great friend to other soldiers in need and he accomplished being a great father for his daughter and me, a girl whom he has only known for a few years. What I have gained from this experience is that a solider is a man who is honorable, strong, intelligent, and loving. He is a man who puts others before himself. He is a man whom you would want by your side during difficult times. He is a man whom you would want defending your country. To me one of the greatest parts of this country is the men and women we have in all our branches of government. I am thankful that we have them to defend our country and there is no one else out there better than them.--Caitlin Zanin.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2009-2010 Congressional Youth Advisory Council. This year 45 students from public, private, and home schools in grades 9 through 12 made their voices heard and made a difference in their communities, their country and their Congress. These students volunteered their time, effort, and talent to inform me about the important issues facing their generation. As young leaders within their communities and their schools, these students boldly represent the promise and the hope we all have for their very bright future. President Ronald Reagan said, ``Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.'' To ensure that the blessing of freedom is passed from one generation to the next, the members of the CYAC spent time interviewing a veteran and documenting the experience for the ``Preserving History Project.'' Today I'm proud to submit the brief summaries provided so the patriotic service of our dedicated veterans and the thoughtful work of the CYAC may be preserved for antiquity in the Congressional Record. A copy of each submitted student summary follows. To each member of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council, thank you for making this year and this group a success. It is not a coincidence that this congressional tribute celebrates two generations of service. Each of you is trusted with the precious gift of freedom. You are the voices of the future and I salute you. God bless you and God bless America. The summary follows: I interviewed my grandfather, Ted Falconer, who served for four years, 1948 to 1952, in the Navy as an electrician. He enlisted in September 1948 as a Seaman Recruit. Initially planning on three years of service, the Korean War caused him to serve for four years instead. After basic training he went to Treasure Island for the Navy electrician school. Then he was stationed at the Naval Communication Station on Guam. During this time was when the Korean War broke out and caused him to see a shift in life on Guam. There was more movement of soldiers and material; and he participated in training exercises to practice loading Marines onto naval vessels and practice landings in preparation, for the Incheon Landing. After months of exercises he was shipped back to Hunter's Point in San Francisco to re-commission an old World War II troop transport for active service in the Korean War. After six months his commission ended and he was honorably discharged from the Navy in September 1952 as a 2nd Class Petty Officer. He then went to Texas with his best friend Wayne, who he met in the Navy, and they both attended college at the University of Texas at Austin. There he earned his Bachelor's and Master's Degree. During this time he also met and married Alice Wilkinson, my grandmother, who both have been happily married for fifty-three years.--Eric Womboldt.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2009-2010 Congressional Youth Advisory Council. This year 45 students from public, private, and home schools in grades 9 through 12 made their voices heard and made a difference in their communities, their country and their Congress. These students volunteered their time, effort, and talent to inform me about the important issues facing their generation. As young leaders within their communities and their schools, these students boldly represent the promise and the hope we all have for their very bright future. President Ronald Reagan said, ``Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.'' To ensure that the blessing of freedom is passed from one generation to the next, the members of the CYAC spent time interviewing a veteran and documenting the experience for the ``Preserving History Project.'' Today I'm proud to submit the brief summaries provided so the patriotic service of our dedicated veterans and the thoughtful work of the CYAC may be preserved for antiquity in the Congressional Record. A copy of each submitted student summary follows. To each member of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council, thank you for making this year and this group a success. It is not a coincidence that this congressional tribute celebrates two generations of service. Each of you is trusted with the precious gift of freedom. You are the voices of the future and I salute you. God bless you and God bless America. The summary follows: Mr. Craig Sherwood was born on February 3, 1966, and was influenced at an early age by the sense of ``duty, honor, country'' that was enforced at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He was highly impressed by their integrity and strived to be like the officers he had seen at the academy. His father served in the Korean War and his uncle had served in the Vietnam War. Mr. Sherwood enlisted in August 1985 at age 19 and was sent to several training camps including airborne camp where he trained with parachutes and infiltration maneuvers. Afterwards, he was sent to ranger camp where he was put through rigorous training programs and eventually came through 43 pounds thinner! After training, he was sent to Germany and was stationed over 50 men and four canons. Mr. Sherwood was placed in 1989 to hold off the Soviet Union forces and was outnumbered three to one but was able to hold them off for 45 minutes, ensuring a U.S. victory. I have learned that despite the pride of serving the Nation at home and abroad, there is still a danger that is faced. I have gained an understanding and appreciation for those who have served and given their time to preserve freedom in the U.S. Mr. Sherwood's story portrays the sanctity of life and how important it is to protect those moments with loved ones and to never give up.--Alexis Webber.

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2009-2010 Congressional Youth Advisory Council. This year 45 students from public, private, and home schools in grades 9 through 12 made their voices heard and made a difference in their communities, their country and their Congress. These students volunteered their time, effort, and talent to inform me about the important issues facing their generation. As young leaders within their communities and their schools, these students boldly represent the promise and the hope we all have for their very bright future. President Ronald Reagan said, ``Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.'' To ensure that the blessing of freedom is passed from one generation to the next, the members of the CYAC spent time interviewing a veteran and documenting the experience for the ``Preserving History Project.'' Today I'm proud to submit the brief summaries provided so the patriotic service of our dedicated veterans and the thoughtful work of the CYAC may be preserved for antiquity in the Congressional Record. A copy of each submitted student summary follows. To each member of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council, thank you for making this year and this group a success. It is not a coincidence that this congressional tribute celebrates two generations of service. Each of you is trusted with the precious gift of freedom. You are the voices of the future and I salute you. God bless you and God bless America. The summary follows: Arjinderpal Singh Sekhon: Serving the Country, Representing a People Serving one's country is undoubtedly one of the most honorable duties of any citizen. Representing one's country in the face of great adversity and threatening challenges requires more than a sense of duty, however. It requires a sense of patriotism. Arjinderpal Singh Sekhon, a Colonel in the United States Army from 1984 to 2009, espoused that very attitude when he volunteered his medical physician services as a Pulmonary and Internal Medicine specialist. As the first follower of the Sikh faith to become a battalion commander, Dr. Sekhon served primarily in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Enduring Freedom. His experiences representing his country throughout the years, whether as a consultant or as the head of the Intensive Care Unit on base, led to him being awarded a total of 18 medals of commendation. Following his retirement, Colonel Sekhon continued serving the nation as he ran for the United States Congress, aspiring for political office. As a reminder of the multicultural foundation of our great country, Dr. Sekhon's story rings true to the basic principles of this nation: regardless of race or religion, any citizen may dedicate his or her life to safeguarding the liberties of our shared home.--Jaywin Singh Malhi