Thomas Kean

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in favor of my legislation, H.R. 5419, the Enhancing Administrative Reviews for Broadband Deployment Act. Even as our world increasingly relies on the internet to access daily needs, communities across the country still lack a reliable wireless connection, especially in the most rural and Tribal communities. The process of obtaining permits to improve broadband and communications infrastructure in these areas is often duplicative, inconsistent between agencies, and can set projects back by years. Outdated bureaucratic processes, inefficiencies, and delays should not stand between American communities and access to a reliable internet connection. My legislation directs an interagency review of the procedures used by the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture to process permitting requests for communications infrastructure. This will allow Congress to direct smart and targeted reforms to improve efficiency, timeliness, and help accelerate access to the internet. For government to work at its best and most responsive, we must invite regular reevaluation of its procedures, judge what works and what doesn't, and implement process improvements so that the Federal Government can better serve American people into the future. This legislation does just that. H.R. 5419 ensures a coordinated interagency approach to making the government run more efficiently so our Federal Government is an active participant in, not an obstacle to, bridging the digital divide. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the partnership of Chairman Westerman and bipartisan colleagues as this bill passed through the House Committee on Natural Resources earlier this month. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the passing of Robert ``Gibby'' Gibson, a World War II veteran, and

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th birthday of Richard Lynch in White Township, New Jersey. Richard J. Lynch, a Warren County native and World War II U.S. Navy veteran, was honored this week. He celebrated his 100th birthday on January 7, 2026, while surrounded by family, friends, and fellow veterans. Lynch further received a quilt from the Quilts of Valor Foundation and a Distinguished Military Service Medal from the Warren County War Memorial Corporation for his service to our Nation. A Navy veteran of World War II, Lynch served as a signalman third class aboard the USS LST 1109. After his military service, he worked as a printer and volunteered as a Sunday school teacher in his local community. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring this hero. There is no greater responsibility, nor debt of gratitude, than that which our Nation owes to its veterans.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 100th birthday of Johnnie Mae Ayler of Branchburg, New Jersey. Born on January 8, 1926, in Maplesville, Alabama, Ms. Ayler is the eldest of fourteen siblings--and one of only two still living today. She and her late husband, R.E. Ayler, raised nine children: seven daughters and two sons. Her family legacy lives on through fourteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Johnnie has called Branchburg, New Jersey home for more than three decades. She devoted more than twenty years of her professional life to Gen Tech. Even after retiring, she continued her service to others as a certified nursing assistant--finally retiring at the remarkable age of 85. A two-time cancer survivor, Johnnie attributes her extraordinary longevity first and foremost to God, a daily routine that once included walking five miles a day, faithfully taking her vitamins, and never missing a doctor's appointments. As we celebrate 100 hundred years of strength, dedication, and grace, we are honored to recognize the truly remarkable Johnnie Mae Ayler. Mr. Speaker, as Johnnie Mae Ayler celebrates her 100th birthday, I am pleased to commend her for being an integral part of the Branchburg community. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring this determined woman truly dedicated to faith, passion, and the pursuit of a brighter future.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th birthday of Hilda Gutierrez in Millburn, New Jersey. On August 17, 1925, Hilda Gutierrez was born in Bogota, Columbia. Ms. Gutierrez immigrated to the United States of America from Columbia in 1951. Hilda lived in the Bronx in New York City when she first arrived at our Great Nation. After that, she moved to East Orange, New Jersey and spent a few wonderful years there. In 1958, Hilda moved to her final location in Millburn, New Jersey, where she still resides today. She worked as a beautician for 40 years and made a lasting impact on her community. Hilda is a devoted wonderful mother, exemplifying the hardworking and dedicated sprit of an immigrant who came to the United States for a better life. Hilda has shown her resilience, courage, and unwavering strength. I am deeply proud of the achievements of Ms. Hilda Gutierrez. Mr. Speaker, as Hilda Gutierrez celebrates her 100th birthday, I am pleased to commend her for being an integral part of the Millburn area. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring this determined woman truly dedicated to faith, passion, and the pursuit of a brighter future.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 90th anniversary of The Deutscher Club in Clark, New Jersey. On September 30, 1935, a group of local men came together to establish an organization dedicated to celebrating and preserving their German heritage and ancestral roots. From this commitment on, this club has grown to be the largest German club in New Jersey. The club's first gathering took place in the welcoming walls of Nick Grunwald's delicatessen in Rahway, New Jersey. Shortly after this, the first official meeting was held at the Grevens Hotel. At this meeting Karl Krumer was elected as the organization's first president and the name ``Deutscher Club of Rahway'' was formally adopted. By the 1950's the club continued to grow. In response, the Deutscher Club purchased a farmhouse sitting on acres of beautiful land. With their dedication and outstanding effort by the members, the humble ``Ole House'' was turned into a beautiful and expansive Club House, reflecting the club's impressive progression and commitment to the German heritage. In 1955, The Ladies Division was established and reactivated again in 1979. Throughout the years, the ladies of this division have played a vital role in emphasizing the club's culture by organizing card parties, fashion shows and other cultural events. To advance the German Culture and education, the club provides financial support to multiple organizations, schools and other cultural institutions. The Deutscher Club will continue to be an ``Oasis for German-Americans in New Jersey.'' I am deeply proud of the achievements of this club and its members. Mr. Speaker as The Deutscher Club celebrates their 90th anniversary of German-American cultural and communal excellence, I am pleased to commend all members of The Deutscher Club for being an integral part of the Clark area. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring this community truly dedicated, to German cultural heritage.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 90th anniversary of The Deutscher Club in Clark, New Jersey. On September 30, 1935, a group of dedicated men came together with a singular purpose: to preserve the rich heritage and powerful cultural tradition of the German people. From this commitment on, this club has grown to be the largest German club in New Jersey. The club's first gathering took place in the welcoming walls of Nick Grunwald's delicatessen in Rahway, New Jersey. Shortly after this, the first official meeting was held at the Grevens Hotel. At this meeting Karl Krumer was elected as the organization's first president and the name ``Deutscher Club of Rahway'' was formally adopted. During the early 1940s, the club was such an outstanding success it moved into Eagle's Hall in Rahway to keep up with its increase in members. By the 1950s this growth showed no signs of slowing down. In response, the Deutscher Club purchased a farmhouse sitting on acres of beautiful land. With their dedication and outstanding effort by the members, the humble ``Ole House'' was turned into a beautiful and expansive Club House, reflecting the club's impressive progression and commitment to the German heritage. In 1955, The Ladies Division was established and reactivated again in 1979. Throughout the years, the ladies of this division have played a vital role in emphasizing the club's culture by organizing card parties, fashion shows and other cultural events. The club has maintained a bi-annual blood bank named ``The Deutscher Club Blood Bank'', which ensures the blood donations are reserved and ready for its members and families. To advance the German Culture and education, the club provides financial support to multiple organizations, schools, and other cultural institutions. The Deutscher Club will continue to be an ``Oasis for German-Americans in New Jersey.'' We take great pride and are deeply proud of what this club and its members have accomplished. Mr. Speaker, as The Deutscher Club celebrates their 90th anniversary of German-American cultural and communal excellence, I am pleased to commend all members of The Deutscher Club for being an integral part of the Clark area. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring this community truly dedicated to faith, culture and education.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th Anniversary of Temple Emanu-El in Westfield, New Jersey. Since its founding in 1950, Temple Emanu-El has been committed to embracing innovation and creativity in the practice of Jewish life and support of the Jewish community. The congregation works to create a space for each member to find the expression of Judaism that makes them feel connected, included, and seen within their community. Temple Emanu-El was founded by 43 Westfield Jewish families of varying Jewish backgrounds who came together to create their own religious home. At this time, Jewish individuals could not purchase land in much of Westfield, and, despite local residents circulating petitions against the founding of a synagogue, the founders of Temple Emanu-El remained resilient and persevered. Through traditional Jewish liturgy with Reform Jewish prayer and practice, Temple Emanu-El established a one-of-a-kind expression of Reform Judaism. Now comprised of 950 families, Temple Emanu-El creates a space where members participate in Jewish ritual life, educational programming, and lifelong learning. The values that members learn within the walls translate into the greater community of Westfield and Union County, where congregants engage in local, state, and national advocacy, philanthropy, and justice. The temple also encourages members to form a meaningful connection to the Land and People of Israel. Temple Emanu-El stands as the model of an engaged, creative, and vibrant Reform synagogue. Mr. Speaker, as Temple Emanu-El celebrates 75 years of Jewish spiritual, cultural, and communal excellence, I am pleased to commend Senior Rabbi Ethan Prosnit and the congregation for being an integral part of the Westfield area. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring this community truly dedicated to faith and education.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, on September 11, 2001, our Nation endured an unspeakable tragedy, and New Jersey carried a deep share of that loss. Thousands of our neighbors left home for work that morning and never returned. Today, 24 years later, we honor those we lost, the first responders, the everyday citizens who became heroes, and the families who continue to carry this grief. We also recognize the tens of thousands who still suffer from cancer and other illnesses caused by that day's attacks and its aftermath. Their sacrifice and their strength remind us of the very best of America--our resilience, our compassion, and our unity. We remember each and every one of them, and each generation will ensure that they are never forgotten. May God bless their memory, their families, and may God bless the United States of America.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service and commitment of the Chester First Aid Squad. Since 1945, the Chester First Aid Squad has provided exceptional care in times of need. For 80 years, these volunteers have provided free and professional support to the people of Chester and to neighboring communities during medical emergencies. The squad has logged thousands of hours administering emergency assistance to others exemplifying the spirit of sacrifice and volunteerism that embody New Jersey's 7th Congressional District. I ask my colleagues today to join me in commending this exemplary organization and congratulating them on 80 years of extraordinary community service.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the remarkable history and service of the Delaware Valley Food Pantry in Lambertville, Hunterdon County. For 70 years, this pantry has been a lifeline for families experiencing food insecurity in the Lambertville and New Hope communities. Since 1955, its dedicated volunteers have ensured that everyone who walks through its doors feels welcomed, supported, and part of a caring community. An entirely volunteer-run organization, the pantry serves more than 1,000 individuals each month, generously giving their time to meet the needs of their neighbors. As we celebrate seven decades of service, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the volunteers and community members whose dedication has made the Delaware Valley Food Pantry a lasting success and will continue to keep families fed for many years to come.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sadie Pirez of Readington, New Jersey, who has been recognized nationally as a Chevrolet Play Ball Player of the Month by Major League Baseball. This program highlights outstanding young athletes across the country who demonstrate exceptional talent, sportsmanship, and dedication to the game. Sadie has achieved remarkable success both on and off the field. She has been a part of three championship teams over the past three seasons and was selected for the Branchburg Recreation Spring 2025 All- Star Team. Sadie led her travel team to the Parkway League Spring Division Championship and was team leader in runs scored and RBI's, carrying an impressive .521 batting average and .662 on-base percentage this past spring. Off the field, Sadie is a two-time Hunterdon Art Museum Young Artist Award recipient and has been featured in the Holland Brook School Bobcat Bulletin. She also maintains straight A's in all core subjects. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring Sadie and her remarkable achievements, and I look forward to seeing Sadie continue to be successful both on and off the field for years to come.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2503, the Undersea Cable Control Act. Undersea cables have long been an integral part of America's transcontinental communication and data transmission. The Undersea Cable Control Act is a crucial, bipartisan piece of legislation designed to protect U.S. national security and ensure continued U.S. technological leadership. By limiting our foreign adversaries' access to undersea cabling infrastructure, we can protect U.S. leadership from the influence of adversarial governments, like the Chinese Communist Party. I think we can all agree, regardless of which side of the aisle we stand on, that there is a need to ensure technologies critical to America's telecommunications infrastructure do not end up in the wrong hands. Undersea cables carry approximately 99 percent of transoceanic digital traffic, enabling $10 trillion in daily financial transactions and contributing hundreds of billions of dollars to the U.S. economy every year. Mr. Speaker, undersea cable infrastructure has become the digital background for the modern global economy. Recent attacks on the transcontinental cable have exposed vulnerabilities in the framework. However, this bill directs Congress and the State Department to develop a strategy to eliminate adversarial access to the key technologies used in undersea cables. This strengthens our export controls, requires transparency and public reporting, and promotes collaboration with our allies abroad to ensure our standards and infrastructure are secure. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Mast of the House Foreign Affairs Committee for authoring this bill during the 118th Congress. I am honored to continue the legacy he began.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Land of Make Believe in Hope Township, Warren County the ``World's Greatest Amusement Park,'' the ``Most Iconic Amusement Park in New Jersey'' and the ``Number One Amusement Park in New Jersey.'' The Land of Make Believe has provided lasting entertainment and fun in the Northern New Jersey area for over seven decades. Since its founding in 1954 by Herman Maier, the park has remained family-owned and operated, with the Maier family upholding the same high standards of excellence and service that have defined it from the beginning. These high standards also earned the Land of Make Believe the award of ``Best Theme Park in New Jersey'' by MSN.com earlier this summer. Christopher Maier, Herman's son and the park's current owner, credited its most recent achievement to the park's enduring commitment to affordability, safety, and family-centered fun. As we celebrate this accomplishment, I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring this beloved institution and its legacy. I look forward to seeing it continue to bring joy to generations of families for years to come in Warren County and beyond.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Liberty Corner Fire Company, an essential part of Bernards Township, Somerset County, for its steadfast and selfless service to our community for 115 years. Since 1910, the Liberty Corner Fire Company's enduring strength has been built not only on the courage of its members but also on the support of the community it serves. Comprised of more than 65 volunteers, the Liberty Corner Fire Company is responsible for providing fire and rescue service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to the Liberty Corner section of Bernards Township. Through community fundraising events and donations, residents ensure that these volunteers have the equipment, training, and protective gear needed to continue their mission safely and effectively. Generations of families in Bernards Township have worn the uniform of Liberty Corner Fire Company, making it both a proud tradition and a vital lifeline. Mr. Speaker, as Bernards Township hosts its upcoming First Responders Appreciation Night, I am especially proud to commend Liberty Corner Fire Company for its unwavering commitment and remarkable legacy of more than a century of service to our community. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring these extraordinary volunteers, whose dedication to protecting our neighbors is a shining example of community spirit and sacrifice.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Land of Make Believe being named the ``World's Greatest Amusement Park'' by the nationally televised ``World's Greatest! . . .'' Located in Hope Township, New Jersey, the Land of Make Believe has provided lasting entertainment and fun in the Northern New Jersey area for over seven decades. Since its founding in 1954 by Herman Maier, the park has remained family-owned and operated, with the Maier family upholding the same high standards of excellence and service that have defined it from the beginning. These high standards also earned the Land of Make Believe the award of ``Best Theme Park in New Jersey'' by MSN.com earlier this summer. Christopher Maier, Herman's son and the park's current owner, credited its most recent achievement to the park's enduring commitment to affordability, safety, and family- centered fun. As we celebrate this accomplishment, I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring this beloved institution and its legacy. I look forward to seeing it continue to bring joy to generations of families for years to come.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and celebrate the Land of Make Believe, an amusement park that has been an important landmark of the Hope Township, New Jersey community, for over seven decades. Since its founding in 1954 by Herman Maier, the park has remained family-owned and operated, with the Maier family upholding the same high standards of excellence and service that have defined it from the beginning. Today, Christopher Maier, Herman's son and the park's current owner, attributes its enduring success to a commitment to affordability, safety, and family-centered fun. As we mark the park's 71st anniversary, I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring this beloved institution and its legacy. I look forward to seeing it continue to bring joy to generations of families for years to come.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Flemington Jewish Community Center (FJCC), which is marking the celebration of its 100th anniversary as a cherished spiritual and cultural home in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. Since its founding, the FJCC has exemplified the spirit of community, service, and faith: principles that have guided it to its position as a flourishing center of Jewish life and learning. The history of the FJCC stretches back to the early decades of the twentieth century, when a wave of Jewish farmers, inspired by the promise of opportunity and liberty from oppression, found their way to Hunterdon County. 1922 marks the founding of the Hebrew Citizens Congregation of Hunterdon County, the brief precursor to today's Flemington Jewish Community Center. The FJCC's earliest permanent home was a small house on Park Avenue in Flemington, which was remodeled to suit the religious and cultural needs of its growing membership. During these formative years, the congregation's devotion to community and Jewish life was evident not only in weekly services and holiday observances, but also in robust cultural activities. Furthermore, as the world plunged into the Second World War, the Center turned its attention outward, raising funds for defense bonds and organizing to support displaced Jewish populations worldwide. The congregation's compassion, resourcefulness, and generosity established the Center as a moral beacon in Flemington and beyond. In the post-war period, the FJCC renewed efforts to build a larger and more modern facility--a vision realized through a new synagogue on East Main Street, which was dedicated in 1948. Under the steady guidance of religious leaders like Rabbi Maurice Idell, and later Rabbi Evan Jaffe, the FJCC's mission expanded even further. Hebrew classes, a Ladies' Auxiliary, youth activities, and vibrant cultural programs created a profound strength of community. As the congregation continued to thrive, it outgrew its Main Street home and, in 2006, celebrated the completion of a new 23,000-square- foot facility in Raritan Township. Under the guidance of Rabbi Eric Cohen, dedicated officers, staff, and volunteers, the congregation has embraced this modern space. From its Nursery and Hebrew Schools to adult education and dedicated interfaith outreach and charitable engagements, the FJCC stands today at the head of Jewish life in Hunterdon County, and reaches members from Trenton to Princeton, and from Annandale to Bucks County, Pennsylvania. As the earliest members hoped a century ago, the FJCC today is far more than a synagogue--it is a true community center. It provides a welcoming atmosphere for families on Friday evenings, Torah discussion on Saturdays, and learning opportunities for youth and adults alike. It brings together individuals of all backgrounds, reflecting the pluralism and mutual respect that are hallmarks of both American democracy and Jewish tradition. May it continue to be a sanctuary where tradition thrives, learning flourishes, and community guides generations to come. On this 100th anniversary, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Flemington Jewish Community Center.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Scott Ruskan, a native of Oxford, New Jersey, who displayed extraordinary bravery during the devastating flooding in Kerr County, Texas. On his very first rescue mission, Petty Officer Ruskan saved 165 people, many of them children, including campers and staff from Camp Mystic. Serving as the only triage coordinator on the scene, he played a critical role in one of the largest rescue efforts in recent Coast Guard history. Scott grew up in Warren County, attended Rider University, and answered the call to serve by enlisting in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he trained as a rescue swimmer before deploying into action with courage far beyond his experience. I am grateful to the first responders and to volunteers, especially heroes like Petty Officer Ruskan, who risk their lives to protect others in need. I thank them for their service and for their sacrifice.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1765, the Promoting United States Wireless Leadership Act. The United States has long been a leader in the development and deployment of the wireless infrastructure that connects Americans and the world. America led the way in the development and the deployment of 5G, an important tool in our communications arsenal that connects millions to everyday needs, emergency services when needed, and to one another. Make no mistake, our adversaries are aggressively working to exert their own influence, their own values, and their own interests on the global wireless stage. As the next generation of wireless technologies take shape, it is critical that America leads and does not follow. This bipartisan bill will cement our continued leadership by directing the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, or NTIA, to encourage participation by trusted stakeholders in the international standards-setting bodies, like 3GP and IEEE, that develop technical standards for 5G and next-generation wireless. Through this bill, NTIA will partner with these trusted stakeholders, representing companies, engineers, and policymakers from America and our allies, to offer technical expertise to American-led innovators. By ensuring that our companies, engineers, and policymakers have a seat at the table, we can promote fair competition, protect our national security, and prevent our adversaries, like China, from shaping the future of global communications to their advantage and to our detriment. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the partnership of Representatives Dingell, Walberg, and Clarke, as well as the work of the Energy and Commerce Committee, on this matter.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Westfield Fire Department as they celebrate 150 years of service to our community. Since its founding as a volunteer fire department in 1875, the WFD has grown into a career department, providing essential fire protection services to the residents of Westfield and the surrounding area. Over the past 150 years, they have answered the call in times of need--often under dangerous and demanding conditions--a true testament to the courage, duty, and selflessness that embody the very best of New Jersey's first responders. I extend my deepest congratulations to the Westfield Fire Department on this milestone anniversary and look forward to their continued growth and commitment to public safety for many years to come.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize CJ Kirst--a talented athlete, loyal teammate, and valued member of his community. CJ grew up in Bernardsville, New Jersey and attended Cornell University, where he recently completed one of the most historic men's lacrosse careers of all time. During his senior year at Cornell, CJ broke the NCAA record for the most career goals (247) and tied the NCAA record for single-season goals (82). These efforts led the Big Red to win the program's first national title since 1977. CJ also became this year's first overall draft pick by the Premier Lacrosse League and was selected by the Philadelphia Waterdogs. As a result of his impressive time at the collegiate level, CJ is the most recent recipient of the Tewaaraton Award--the highest honor bestowed upon a men's lacrosse player. I am pleased to join the Bernardsville Community in congratulating CJ and wish him nothing but continued success in his lacrosse career.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 90th birthday of Jerry Sheard, a man who has devoted his life to serving his country, family, and community. Jerry enlisted in the Navy Reserve in 1952, serving on the USS Cabot, USS Saratoga, and with the Commander Amphibious Forces Atlantic. Following his release from active duty, Jerry spent 12 years with the Naval Reserve and later transferred to the Coast Guard Reserve as a Chief Firefighter. In 1962, Jerry was named Coast Guard Reservist of the Year and received a direct commission to Lieutenant Junior Grade in 1973. Jerry's commitment to his community cannot be overstated. He has been a member of the American Legion for close to 50 years--first serving with Post 91 in Wharton and currently with Post 278 in Sussex County. Jerry is a life member and past Chief of the Budd Lake, New Jersey Volunteer Fire Department and has served on the Mt. Olive Township Council, the Planning Board, and as President of the Mt. Olive Free Library. I am proud and honored to wish Chief Jerry Sheard a happy 90th birthday. He is the embodiment of the values that New Jersey's 7th District represents.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jay Post--a dedicated patriot, family man, and valued member of his community. Jay moved to Westfield, New Jersey, in 1951. He graduated from Westfield High School in 1957 and earned his degree from Siena College in 1961. Soon after, he completed Officer Basic Training at the U.S. Army Field Artillery School in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and was deployed to Korea with the 7th Infantry Division, where he helped defend the Demilitarized Zone. After being honorably discharged as a First Lieutenant in 1963, Jay worked for Ford Motor Company and later earned an MBA in Finance from Columbia University. In 1965, he married his wife, Arleen. They returned to Westfield to raise their four children, and in 1995, moved to Mountainside, where they still live today. I am pleased to join the Borough of Mountainside in recognizing Jay Post as a Co-Grand Marshal of this year's Memorial Day Parade. His life of service, leadership, and love of country is truly deserving of our gratitude and shall be remembered for years to come.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of John N. Post--a patriot who was and still is truly committed to service, community, and country. John moved to Westfield, New Jersey, at age ten and graduated from Westfield High School in 1958. He attended St. Peter's College, where he joined the U.S. Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class program. On the day he graduated in 1962, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps. John went on to study at Georgetown Law School and was admitted to the bar in both New Jersey and the District of Columbia. He served for three years as a legal officer in the Marine Corps, advising commands both in the U.S. and in Vietnam. In 1966, while still on active duty, John married his wife, Mary. After completing his service, he founded the law firm now known as Post Polak, P.A., where he served as managing partner until 2008. Today, I am pleased to join the Borough of Mountainside in honoring John Post as he serves as a Co-Grand Marshal of the Mountainside Memorial Day Parade. His life is a testament to the core principles that define our Nation: service, commitment, and integrity.