Thomas Kean

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the dedication of the historic Mount Olive Baptist Church in Mount Olive Township, New Jersey. On June 7th, the community will gather to celebrate the completion of a renovation project, honoring the legacy of this cherished place of worship. The Mount Olive Baptist Church has been a cornerstone of faith, fellowship, and community for generations. Its restoration represents not only the preservation of an important historic landmark but also the enduring strength of the congregation and the broader Mount Olive community. I commend the Mount Olive Township and the Mount Olive Township Historical Society for their dedication to this project. Their efforts ensure that future generations will continue to find connection and purpose within the church's walls. As we mark this special occasion, I extend my congratulations to the church leadership, parishioners, and community members whose vision and hard work brought this renovation to fruition. May the Mount Olive Baptist Church continue to serve as a beacon of faith and hope for many years to come.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the West Amwell Volunteer Fire Department as they celebrate 75 years of service to our community. Since its founding in 1949, the department has provided essential fire protection and rescue services to the residents of West Amwell Township. Their commitment to answering the call in times of need, often under dangerous and demanding conditions, is a testament to the sense of courage, duty, and selflessness embodying the very best of New Jersey's first responders. As June 14th approaches, the community comes together to reflect on this special milestone and honor the dedication of the men and women who have spent decades working to keep West Amwell safe. As the West Amwell Volunteer Fire Department celebrates 75 years of distinguished service, I look forward to seeing their continued growth and commitment to public safety for years to come.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of Peter Pearson, a 57-year resident of New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, who recently passed away at the age of 83. Residing in the town of Andover, he was elected member of the Andover Regional Board of Education from 1984 to 1996 and later as an Andover Borough Councilman from 2002 to 2022. Additionally, Mr. Pearson served as comptroller for multiple small businesses and as the School Business Administrator for several of the surrounding school districts for over 25 years. Mr. Pearson was always ready to help with anything that would better his community and will be remembered for his kind personality and dedication to serving those around him. I am honored to be able to recognize such a dedicated and thoughtful resident of my district.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of Robert A. ``Bob'' Bouwman, a former Branchburg Committeeman who faithfully served the Branchburg community for over thirty-five years. Bob's volunteer service began in 1990 when he was appointed to the Historic Preservation Commission, where he served until 2002. He was appointed again in 2012, serving until 2025. A true representation of New Jersey, he left a legacy of kindness, service, and dedication to his community. Inspired by change and seeing the potential to enhance his community, he became a founding member of the Country Fair in 1997. For 27 years, he diligently organized the annual ``hometown'' event, which brought community members together for a day of fun-filled activities and fireworks at White Oak Park. In addition to his long list of achievements, Bob was appointed to the Planning Board in 2001, serving until 2021. He also served on the Township Committee from 2003 to 2012 and was elected Mayor in both 2005 and 2010. I wish to express my sincere appreciation to Robert A. Bouwman for his many years of dedicated service and countless contributions to the Township of Branchburg. May his memory continue to inspire us all and live on in the heart of our community.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 99th birthday of Ethel Miers. Ms. Miers is a dedicated resident from the town of Milford in New Jersey's 7th Congressional District who is committed to preserving American values and strengthening our Nation's future. As we celebrate her birthday, we recognize her contributions and take this opportunity to reflect on the many blessings we share as a community. It is my honor to represent her, and I extend my warmest wishes for a joyous 99th birthday.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of Joseph M. Bristow, a former Councilman from Hackettstown. Joseph Bristow brought his passion for preservation and community to Fredon Township, New Jersey. He was a true New Jersey icon whose legacy of kindness, service, and dedication to his community will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A graduate of the University of Connecticut, Joseph earned a Bachelor's degree followed by a Master's degree from Villanova University. He also pursued doctoral courses at the New School for Social Research, reflecting his lifelong dedication to education. Joseph spent over four decades as a professor at County College of Morris (CCM), where his belief in the transformative power of knowledge inspired generations of students. Inspired by change, he saw the potential for enhancing his community. He was a founding member of the Committee for Crime Prevention (known as the DARE program), demonstrating his commitment to creating a safer and more just environment. His dedication extended to the younger generation as a devoted Little League coach, where he taught not just the fundamentals of the game, but also the values of teamwork and determination. As a Town Councilman, a member of the Board of Adjustment, and a member of the Library Board, Joseph was known for working tirelessly to be a beacon of change for his community. Faith was central to Joseph's life and influenced everything he pursued. He was a dedicated member of Trinity United Methodist Church and an active participant in the United Methodist Men's group. His unwavering belief in the power of community and spirituality was evident in all that he did. Our hearts go out to his wife, Patricia, and his three children-- Joseph, Laurie, and Thomas--and all who knew and loved him. May his memory continue to inspire us all and live in the heart of our city.

Mr. KEAN

Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center in Bridgewater, NJ. Through its wide range of services and diverse programming, the JCC works with the Jewish community and the Bridgewater community at large to preserve and strengthen Jewish identity. Over the past 25 years, members of all ages have had the opportunity to enjoy services such as fitness centers, educational classes, summer camps, and much more. I am honored to have such an incredible organization in the 7th Congressional District, and I look forward to witnessing the continued growth of the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center.

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 heart 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 of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and honor the establishment of the Frelinghuysen Township Volunteer Fire Company in Frelinghuysen, NJ. The establishment of this fire company in 2022 marked the creation of the first all-volunteer company in the State of New Jersey in almost 30 years. As an advocate for local law enforcement in New Jersey, I recognize the Frelinghuysen Volunteer Fire Company as a testament to the hard-working people who tirelessly dedicate themselves to making our communities safer. The volunteers at the Frelinghuysen Fire Company dedicate their time to strengthening community relationships and providing high-quality emergency response services to all of Frelinghuysen Township. As we celebrate and honor this remarkable all-volunteer fire company, I have full confidence and trust that its volunteers will continue to serve with pride and distinction, striving to make a lasting difference in their community.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize John Browne, an extraordinary individual from Mountainside, New Jersey, as he celebrates his 50th anniversary as a volunteer firefighter with the Mountainside Fire Department. Since joining the department in February 1974, John has responded to no less than 60 percent of fire calls each year during his 50-year tenure--more than any other volunteer firefighter in the history of the department. He has been described as the type of first responder you can always count on to be there, serving in every capacity, including line officer, lieutenant, captain, deputy chief, assistant chief, and even as fire chief on three separate occasions. In his free time, John continues to educate and serve his community by volunteering to help lead free public tours of the John J. Harvey Fireboat Museum and Education Center in New York Harbor. John's dedication and commitment to the community of Mountainside have been immeasurable, and I thank him for his incredible contributions to New Jersey's 7th Congressional District.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak on a very important topic, carbon monoxide poisoning, particularly in relation to the dangers that come with operating an automobile. According to the CDC, there are over 400 deaths and 20,000 emergency room visits each year as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is often referred to as the ``silent killer'' because of its undetectable traits. When people inhale certain amounts of carbon monoxide, the gas enters the bloodstream and prevents the intake of oxygen, which could result in death. On September 2, 2021, Suzan ``Suzie'' Marie Hanna of Bridgewater Township tragically passed away from carbon monoxide poisoning while driving from her job in Flemington to her home, due to floodwaters preventing the movement of her automobile. Suzie Hanna, a graduate of Bridgewater-Raritan High School and Raritan Valley Community College, was known for her kindness, selflessness, and always brightening the mood of people around her. We are joined today by her family. In memory of their daughter and their sister, they have fought to urge drivers to acquire and use safety hammers in their cars to prevent tragedies like Suzie's from happening again. Additionally, the family started a foundation called Suzie's Mission. This foundation hosts fundraisers that directly support local organizations and keeps Suzie's memory alive. Mr. Speaker, I thank her family for joining me today and making the U.S. and New Jersey a safer place.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate Claire Seiffer, who is celebrating her 100th birthday on November 21st of this year. Mrs. Seiffer has spent her entire life in the State of New Jersey, where she was a longtime public-school PE teacher. Her service to the state and nation was complemented by that of her husband, a World War II veteran. Mrs. Seiffer met her husband at the school that they worked at together after he returned from his military service. Mrs. Seiffer has fond memories of iceboating on their hand-built boat with her husband on New Jersey's famous Lake Hopatcong. Going into her 100th birthday, she continues to maintain an active lifestyle, and her friends and family enjoy her vivacious spirit and sharp mind. lt is my distinct pleasure to celebrate Mrs. Seiffer today, as she continues to be the embodiment of American and New Jerseyan commitment to public service, health, and prosperity.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognized The Arc of Warren County for its 70 years of service to the 7th Congressional District of New Jersey. By assisting families in addressing the challenges associated with the lifelong care of relatives with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc of Warren County has created an environment where those they serve are accepted and respected in the community. Currently serving over 1,100 individuals annually, The Arc strives every day to ensure that all those associated with the program are able to achieve independence, make friends, and contribute to society. I am honored to have such an amazing organization working to strengthen the lives of New Jersey residents, and I look forward to seeing all that they will achieve in the future.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor historic Warren County, which is celebrating its bicentennial anniversary this fall. Warren County was incorporated in November of 1824 through an act of the New Jersey State Legislature, which named the new county after the renowned Revolutionary War hero, Dr. Joseph Warren. At the time of her founding, a sum of almost $10,000 was raised to build a county courthouse that is still in use to this day. Warren County has historically been an important locus of transportation and commerce. In the 1650s, Dutch settlers built a road to carry mined copper in the region across colony lines to New York. Today, ``Old Mine Road'' is a popular visitor attraction for both New Jersey residents and tourists from across the country. Through the 19th century, Warren County expanded in commercial importance, hosting a large part of the Morris Canal, which connected the New Jersey and Pennsylvania countryside to metropolitan markets on the eastern seaboard. Phillipsburg, New Jersey, also became a major hub for five major railroads. The County also has a long history of industriousness and prosperity. In the 1830s, furnaces in Oxford, New Jersey, became the first in the Nation to use the hot blast process, while a Phillipsburg furnace was one of the first to employ the Bessemer process. Phillipsburg was also home to the first commercially successful diesel-electric train engines. In the 20th century, a heavy manufacturing plant in Phillipsburg provided critical machinery for the Allied World War II victory. Today, Warren County remains the leading manufacturing county among the 21 counties of New Jersey. Agriculture has long been a staple of Warren County's prosperity and health. Warren County feeds New Jerseyans as the top producing County of milk, dairy, cattle, feed corn, and eggs. The county's proud tradition of family-owned farms continues to provide quality fresh produce to residents across New Jersey and Pennsylvania. It is my honor to congratulate the communities of Warren County on their bicentennial celebration, as it continues to be a pillar of New Jerseyan and American agriculture, industry, and history.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commemorate the birthday of United States Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone. GySgt. Basilone was a courageous and honorable Marine who was awarded both the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroism during the Battle of Guadalcanal and the Navy Cross for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima. His acts of heroism left him the only enlisted Marine to receive both decorations during World War II. Many others also recognized and sought to memorialize GySgt. Basilone's relentless patriotism and leadership. In 1945, the United States Navy honored GySgt. Basilone's service through the commissioning of the USS Basilone (DD-824) and the USS John Basilone (DDG-122), which will be commissioned on November 9, 2024. His hometown of Raritan, New Jersey began hosting the annual Basilone Parade in 1981, which continues to be the only annual parade in the United States that honors a war hero. In 2005, the United States Postal Service included GySgt. Basilone as one of the four distinguished Marines commemorated on the 37-cent stamp issued on November 10, 2005. In 2010, Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks adapted his story as a storyline in the HBO miniseries titled The Pacific. Most recently, on March 23, 2016, Congress approved renaming the Raritan Post Office to the Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone Post Office, cementing his memory in brick and mortar within his hometown. GySgt. Basilone has roads, bridges, and highways named after him in several states, and every enlisted Marine is taught about GySgt. Basilone's courageous actions during their time in boot camp. It brings me tremendous honor to commemorate the Birthday of this American hero and native son of New Jersey. I would also like to recognize the Basilone Memorial Foundation for their tireless work honoring GySgt. Basilone and supporting our active military, veterans, and others in need. I am truly honored to represent a district home to such a hero and an organization that continuously works to support our Military.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the extraordinary life of Frederick Biermann, a man whose legacy of courage, service, and innovation spans continents and generations. Born in Vienna in 1930, Fred and his family fled Nazi occupied Austria in 1938, eventually finding refuge in the British Mandate for Palestine. At the young age of 15, Fred joined the Haganah, defending his community from oppression and later serving with distinction in the Israeli Defense Forces during Israel's fight for independence. Fluent in five languages, Fred immigrated to the United States in 1952 and continued his service, eventually rising to the rank of Colonel in both the Israeli Defense Forces and United States Army. His leadership is mirrored by his innovative contributions in the fields of dentistry and medicine, where he pioneered advancements in bridges, implants, and even heart valve technology. A devoted husband to Rose and a loving father to Sharon, Hal, and Wendy, Fred's life is marked by resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to improving and safeguarding the world around him. It is my privilege to place his name in the Congressional Record in recognition of someone who truly exemplifies service and excellence.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the extraordinary life of Frederick Biermann, a man whose legacy of courage, service, and innovation spans continents and generations. Born in Vienna in 1930, Fred and his family fled Nazi-occupied Austria in 1938, eventually finding refuge in the British Mandate for Palestine. At the young age of 15, Fred joined the Haganah, defending his community from oppression and later serving with distinction in the Israeli Defense Forces during Israel's fight for independence. Fluent in five languages, Fred immigrated to the United States in 1952 and continued his service, eventually rising to the rank of Colonel in both the Israeli Defense Forces and United States Army. His leadership was mirrored by his innovative contributions in the fields of dentistry and medicine, where he pioneered advancements in bridges, implants, and even heart valve technology. A devoted husband to Rose and a loving father to Sharon, Hal, and Wendy, Fred's life was marked by resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to improving and safeguarding the world around him. It is my privilege to include in the Record his name in recognition of a life that truly exemplified service and excellence.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the hometown heroes, first responders and law enforcement, who keep us safe every day. In recognition of National Police Week in May, my office put out a call for nominations for the first NJ-07 Law Enforcement Hometown Heroes initiative. Twenty-two law enforcement professionals from across New Jersey's 7th Congressional District were nominated by their chiefs and supervisors for the outstanding work they do every day. It is my honor to play a small role in recognizing their efforts as a token of appreciation for the difficult and often thankless task of keeping our communities safe. I will always support these men and women in blue. In recognition of their bravery and commitment, I would like to include in the Record the names of these twenty-two Hometown Heroes: Officer Alyse Brown, Sparta Township Police Department, Staff Sergeant Brent Hawkswell, New Jersey State Police, Officer Connor Strohm, Readington Township Police Department, Sergeant Daniel Kern, Hopatcong Police Department, Lieutenant Donald Sretenovic, New Providence Police Department, Lieutenant Douglas Baylor, Phillipsburg Police Department, Detective Elizabeth Savnik, Westfield Police Department, Corporal Gretchen Malone, Hunterdon County Sheriff's Office, Officer Jarren Mann, Hunterdon County Sheriff's Office, Officer Jessica Gutsick, High Bridge Police Department, Officer John M. Simonetti Jr., Mount Olive Police Department, Captain Jonathan Rachel, Springfield Police Department, Captain Michael Jackson, Mountainside Police Department, Captain Miguel Acabou, Clark Police Department, Officer Nicholas J. Villa, Raritan Township Police Department, Patrolman Peter Zabita, Hopatcong Police Department, Corporal Ryan Kamieniencki, Far Hills Police Department, Captain Scott Rayack, Rahway Police Department, Lieutenant Thomas Polito, Bedminster Township Police Department, Sergeant Timothy Richard, Bernardsville Police Department, Sergeant Tracy Baldassare, Bernards Township Police Department, Officer Vincent Conti, Scotch Plains Police Department. We are grateful for the commitment and sacrifice they make every single day.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the hometown heroes, first responders and law enforcement, who keep us safe every day. In recognition of National Police Week in May, my office put out a call for nominations for the first NJ-07 Law Enforcement Hometown Heroes initiative, Twenty-two law enforcement professionals from across New Jersey's 7th Congressional District were nominated by their chiefs and supervisors for the outstanding work they do every day. It is my honor to play a small role in recognizing their efforts as a token of appreciation for the difficult and often thankless task of keeping our communities safe. I will always support these men and women in blue. In recognition of their bravery and commitment, I would like to include in the Record the names of these twenty-two Hometown Heroes: Officer Alyse Brown, Sparta Township Police Department, Staff Sergeant Brent Hawkswell, New Jersey State Police, Officer Connor Strohm, Readington Township Police Department, Sergeant Daniel Kern, Hopatcong Police Department, Lieutenant Donald Sretenovic, New Providence Police Department, Lieutenant Douglas Baylor, Phillipsburg Police Department, Detective Elizabeth Savnik, Westfield Police Department, Corporal Gretchen Malone, Hunterdon County Sheriff's Office, Officer Jarren Mann, Hunterdon County Sheriff's Office, Officer Jessica Gutsick, High Bridge Police Department, Officer John M. Simonetti Jr., Mount Olive Police Department, Captain Jonathan Rachel, Springfield Police Department, Captain Michael Jackson, Mountainside Police Department, Captain Miguel Acabou, Clark Police Department, Officer Nicholas J. Villa, Raritan Township Police Department, Patrolman Peter Zabita, Hopatcong Police Department, Corporal Ryan Kamieniencki, Far Hills Police Department, Captain Scott Rayack, Rahway Police Department, Lieutenant Thomas Polito, Bedminster Township Police Department, Sergeant Timothy Richard, Bernardsville Police Department, Sergeant Tracy Baldassare, Bernards Township Police Department, Officer Vincent Conti, Scotch Plains Police Department. We are grateful for the commitment and sacrifice they make every single day.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and congratulate the Morris County Prosecutor's Office on its 200th anniversary. I am extremely grateful to be able to celebrate this incredible milestone with the Prosecutor's Office and the Morris County community. As an office of integrity, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office stands on the principles of justice, fairness, and a commitment to attentive response to the public. This truly selfless office is dedicated to ensuring the safety of those in Morris County. By cooperating with law enforcement, the members of the office work to reduce crime and protect the families of Morris County. As we reflect on the past 200 years of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, it is clear they have exceeded the expectations of their community, and I know they will continue to do so for the next 200 years. I am honored to represent such an amazing community in the 7th Congressional District, and I look forward to what the future holds.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my warmest congratulations to the Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child on their 100th anniversary. I am truly grateful to be celebrating this monumental milestone with you all. The Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child was founded by the Society of the Holy Child Jesus and has been at the forefront of empowering students not only academically but also in personal growth and social responsibility. Over the past 100 years, Oak Knoll has fostered a welcoming diverse student body of inquisitive students who think critically, embrace knowledge, respond with moral and ethical integrity, and make responsible choices that enrich their own lives and contribute to the lives of others. The Oak Knoll school has maintained a steadfast commitment to integrating faith with education, promoting a community of compassionate and informed citizens who are ready to lead and serve in a global society. The past 100 years have served as a reflection of the vibrant legacy that will continue to inspire and shape future generations. The Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child has stood as a testament to a century's worth of educational innovation, resilience, and dedication. May the schools next 100 years be filled with as much success as the past 100 years.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the hometown heroes, first responders and law enforcement, who keep us safe every day. In recognition of National Police Week in May, my office put out a call for nominations for the first NJ-07 Law Enforcement Hometown Heroes initiative. Twenty-two law enforcement professionals from across New Jersey's 7th Congressional District were nominated by their chiefs and supervisors for the outstanding work they do every day. It is my honor to play a small role in recognizing their efforts as a token of appreciation for the difficult and often thankless task of keeping our communities safe. I will always support these men and women in blue, and I look forward to welcoming each of these hometown heroes to a ceremony in October to formally recognize them in-person. In recognition of their bravery and commitment, I would like to include in the Record the names of these twenty-two Hometown Heroes: Officer Alyse Brown, Sparta Township Police Department, Staff Sergeant Brent Hawkswell, New Jersey State Police, Officer Connor Strohm, Readington Township Police Department, Sergeant Daniel Kern, Hopatcong Police Department, Lieutenant Donald Sretenovic, New Providence Police Department, Lieutenant Douglas Baylor, Phillipsburg Police Department, Detective Elizabeth Savnik, Westfield Police Department, Corporal Gretchen Malone, Hunterdon County Sheriff's Office, Officer Jarren Mann, Hunterdon County Sheriff's Office, Officer Jessica Gutsick, High Bridge Police Department, Officer John M. Simonetti Jr., Mount Olive Police Department, Captain Jonathan Rachel, Springfield Police Department, Captain Michael Jackson, Mountainside Police Department, Captain Miguel Acabou, Clark Police Department, Officer Nicholas J. Villa, Raritan Township Police Department, Patrolman Peter Zabita, Hopatcong Police Department, Corporal Ryan Kamieniencki, Far Hills Police Department, Captain Scott Rayack, Rahway Police Department, Lieutenant Thomas Polito, Bedminster Township Police Department, Sergeant Timothy Richard, Bernardsville Police Department, Sergeant Tracy Baldassare, Bernards Township Police Department, and Officer Vincent Conti, Scotch Plains Police Department. We are grateful for the commitment and sacrifice they make every single day.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7323, the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act of 2024, introduced by my friend, Congressman Van Orden from Wisconsin. This legislation includes my bill, H.R. 7613, the Veterans Flight Training Responsibility Act of 2024. This act would allow up to $115,000 in benefits for veterans to use at public institutions of higher learning for flight school. This number is on par with the cap for 4-year private institutions so that veterans in flight schools are not disadvantaged and it would allow veterans to go to school year-round. Additionally, this legislation would protect American taxpayers from schools charging hundreds of thousands of dollars for a degree that should not cost that much. Finally, by getting veterans through school faster and protecting the VA from flight school GI Bill fraud, this legislation would help the economy and America's deficit, while being a good steward of taxpayer dollars. This bill would allow student veterans who wish to train during the summer months to do so. This allows those students to take advantage of better weather conditions for flight training. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this vital piece of legislation to help our veterans obtain degrees quicker and advance in their chosen profession. Finally, I thank Chairman Bost for advancing this legislation and my friend, Congressman Van Orden, for sponsoring the underlying bill.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mannion's Irish Pub and Restaurant on their 25th anniversary. I am extremely honored to be able to celebrate this impressive milestone with Mannion's and the Somerville Community. Mannion's Irish Pub and Restaurant harbors a warm environment where food, music, conversation, and laughter all find a home. For the past 25 years, Mannion's has showed its commitment by serving authentic Irish specialties and fostering a ``proper Irish pub'' by ensuring friendly service, making it feel as if you are entering not just a restaurant, but also a home. As we look back on the past 25 years of Mannion's, they have exceeded the expectation of what an Irish pub can provide for a community. I am honored to have such an amazing establishment in New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, and I look forward to what is to come.

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey

Mr. KEAN of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and congratulate the Urban League of Union County on their 80th Anniversary. Since 1944, the Urban League has worked in Union County to assist African Americans and other underserved communities in achieving social and economic equality by providing education, housing, health services, and promoting economic self-reliance and civil rights. By working to ensure the success of individuals and families in Union County, the Urban League is truly working to make New Jersey's 7th Congressional District a better place. I am honored to have such an amazing organization in the 7th District, and I look forward to seeing what they will continue to achieve in the future.