Scott McInnis

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to Fred Sipe of La Junta, Colorado. Fred recently retired from Otero Junior College where he taught art, drafting, and computer aided design. As Fred prepares for retirement, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize his many years of hard work and dedication to Otero Junior College. When Fred arrived at Otero Junior College in 1992, he fell in love with the town and the campus. He quickly began work as an art teacher. Through eleven years at the school, Fred has taught almost every art class the college has to offer. However, Fred did not restrict himself to the classroom; he was known to attend almost every extracurricular event he could. He was considered a regular at art shows, concerts, and athletic events, usually accompanied by his wife Joan. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this Congress and this nation to recognize the accomplishments of Fred Sipe. His hard work and dedication provided students with the ability to learn about art in new, creative ways. Teaching our nation's youth is truly a noble calling, and Fred's 11 years of service are truly a remarkable accomplishment. Thank you, Fred, for the service you have provided our community. I wish you all the best in your retirement.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I stand before this Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a dedicated veteran and loving family man from my district. Paul Deyerle of Pueblo, Colorado died recently at the age of 86. Paul's dedication and commitment to his country have left a legacy of leadership that we would all be wise to emulate. I am proud to stand and recognize his accomplishments here today. As a member of the Army Air Corps in World War II, Paul fought to protect the freedoms we cherish today. Paul also met his future wife Kay during his stint in the army; the couple would later marry and be blessed with three children. When Paul returned from the war he settled in Pueblo and was a founding member of the Pueblo West Ecumenical Church. At the church, Paul's humorous, loving spirit was evident, and he would later be recognized for the community service he provided his hometown. Paul was voted Optimist of the Year in 1981, 1986, and 1992. Mr. Speaker, I am saddened by the loss of such a kind and caring individual. The hard work and dedication that Paul has shown to Pueblo and the United States is truly remarkable. It was Paul's selflessness, reliability and positive spirit that have garnered him respect, and it is for those qualities that he has earned my respect. My thoughts and prayers go out to Paul's family and friends. He will surely be missed.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this Nation today to pay tribute to a selfless community servant and dedicated doctor from my district, Mary Jean Berg of Ordway, CO. An active member of the Crowley County community, Mary Jean is this year's recipient of the 2003 Rural Healthcare Excellence Award presented by the Colorado Rural Health Center. I would like to join with the Colorado Rural Health Center in congratulating Mary Jean on this distinguished honor. The Rural Healthcare Excellence Award is presented every year to someone who makes an outstanding contribution to rural healthcare or the rural healthcare system. Mary Jean is an obvious candidate, with over twenty years of rural healthcare experience. She has clinics located throughout Crowley and Otero counties, providing medical care that is closer to home for her patients. Mary Jean goes beyond the duty of a doctor; she has been known to make house calls and provide special services to her elderly patients. Mary Jean has also helped bring several new doctors and nurses into the area, ensuring an availability of healthcare professionals for years to come. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues here today in applauding Mary Jean's civic-mindedness and in recognizing this prestigious honor. This recognition to Mary Jean for her community service is well deserved, and I am proud to bring her achievements to the attention of this body of Congress today. Congratulations and thanks again, Mary Jean, for your many years of hard work. May you have many more to come!

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to recognize a dedicated educator from my district. Over the last two decades, Cyndy Simms has provided Steamboat Springs, Colorado with exemplary service as the school district's Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent over the last two decades. As Cyndy's career now takes her to Washington State, I am proud to honor the determination and legacy that she leaves with Steamboat's school system. Cyndy accepted the school district Assistant Superintendent position shortly after arriving in Steamboat Springs in 1983. She revolutionized many aspects of the Steamboat Springs School District in that position as well as in her subsequent service as Superintendent. With her consensus model of decision-making, Cyndy forged a relationship between the school district and the community which remains strong today. The school district has come a long way under Cyndy's stewardship. Cyndy cherished her position as Superintendent and the opportunity it gave her to impact so many students' lives. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand before this body of Congress today to express my admiration for Cyndy Simms and her service and devotion to the students of Steamboat. Individuals like Cyndy personify the dedication and commitment necessary to impart strong values to future generations and allow them the opportunity to succeed. Thank you, Cyndy, for your dedication and selfless public service. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life and passing of Cody Brickell, a resident of Glenwood Springs, Colorado. As his family and friends mourn their loss, I would like to pay tribute to his life and the wonderful memories he has left behind. Just 18 years old, Cody was a recent high school graduate with plans for attending college in the fall and dreams of studying medicine. Cody was a young leader in his community, serving as the student body president, captain of the football team and a member of the Glenwood Springs High School Key Club. Cody was known for his solid work ethic, toiling long hours to save money while pouring concrete, mowing lawns and working at the local athletic club. The loss of a life is tragic in any instance, but the loss of a young life is even more trying. Cody showed such tremendous potential for accomplishing tremendous feats in his short lifetime, and it saddens me to stand here today and mourn his passing. Cody's family and community will certainly miss his generous spirit. Mr. Speaker, I am saddened by the untimely loss of such a kind and promising individual. Cody's commitment, compassion, and hard work garnered him respect in his community, and it is for those very qualities that I bring his life to the attention of my colleagues here today. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Cody Brickell.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to Vi and Ozzie Sis of Fruita, Colorado. This remarkable couple is being recognized by the City of Fruita for the hard work and dedication they have given to the community. As Vi and Ozzie receive this recognition, I am honored to speak of their contributions and accomplishments here today. Arriving in Fruita in 1985, these fine Coloradans quickly realized that they wanted to be involved in community activities. With a lot of hard work, the couple quickly became two of the area's best community servants. They helped bring a new Dinosaur Museum to Fruita, helped to establish a new civic center, and were instrumental in the creation of the Highway 340 corridor. In addition to these contributions, Vi spent over a decade on the Fruita City Council, serving several years as the Mayor Pro Tem. As Ozzie and Vi prepare for their move to Colorado Springs, they have begun to think about volunteering in their new town. Their friends claim that if something needs to be done, they will be more than happy to do it. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues here today in applauding Vi and Ozzie's civic-mindedness and in recognizing their hard work on behalf of our community. This recognition to the couple for the work they do in their community is long overdue, and I am proud to bring their achievements to the attention of this body of Congress today. Congratulations and thanks again, Vi and Ozzie, for your many years of hard work on behalf of Fruita and the State of Colorado.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I rise before this body of Congress to pay tribute to the life and passing of a truly visionary leader. As Chairman of the Southern Ute Tribe in Ignacio, Colorado, Leonard Burch worked tirelessly to elevate his tribe to a place of national prominence and improve the welfare of its members. I have great pride as I rise to highlight Chairman Burch's accomplishments and years of service to the State of Colorado. The Southern Ute Tribe found a leader with vision for the long-term when they elected Leonard to serve as Chairman in 1967. Despite a soft- spoken demeanor, Chairman Burch exuded a strong presence, and elected officials throughout my state held him in high regard. Chairman Burch built on these partnerships to help pass the statute creating the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs in 1976. Chairman Burch's high standard of public service and strong leadership style will serve as an example for generations of future leaders. Chairman Burch was widely renowned for his caring personality and dedication to the long-term development of the Southern Ute Tribe. His policies as tribal Chairman focused on energy development, the health of his fellow tribe members, and the education of tribal youth. While he cared for the entire tribe's well being, Chairman Burch's focus never strayed from his family. He always spoke proudly of his seven daughters. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand before this body of Congress to pay tribute to Leonard Burch for his devotion to his family, dedication to his community, and the leadership he offered to the Southern Ute Tribe. His legacy is evident in the enhanced self-determination, opportunity, and sovereignty that his fellow tribe members enjoy today. While he will be dearly missed, we can all take solace in the knowledge that Chairman Burch's spirit lives on through those whom he has touched.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I rise before this body of Congress today to recognize the life and passing of a skiing icon. Max Marolt was a world-class skier and prominent political figure in his hometown of Aspen, Colorado. I am honored to rise today to highlight Max's accomplishments and his service to the Aspen community. Max was born in Aspen in 1936, one of three sons that would soon become prominent figures in the skiing community. Max excelled as a member of the Aspen junior racing team, leading it to a third place finish at the National Junior Meet in 1951. After joining the Denver University Ski Team, he earned a place on the U.S. Ski Team in 1954. Several years later, Max's skills and determination led to an invitation to the 1960 Olympic Winter Games. Max's participation in the Olympic games inspired local skiers throughout the area to pursue their grandest dreams, including his brother Bill, who competed in the Olympics in 1964. Although Max's intrepid spirit led him on many adventures around the world, he continued to call Aspen his home. Max worked as a sales representative for several ski equipment manufacturers while raising his four children and cultivating their respective skiing careers. His son noted that Max dedicated the last 30 years of his life to his family and community. Max's service included a stint on the Aspen City Council in 1995 and a campaign for mayor in 1997. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand before this body of Congress today to pay tribute to Max Marolt for his devotion to his family, dedication to his community, and numerous athletic achievements. Citizens like Max provide the spirit and strength of character that made this nation great. While he will be dearly missed, we can all take solace in the knowledge that Max's spirit lives on through those whom he has touched.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to pay tribute to an inspiring veteran in Grand Junction, Colorado. Despite being confined to a wheelchair, Ron Gibson continues to set unprecedented athletic standards and win numerous medals in national competitions. I have great pride as I rise today to recognize Ron's athletic achievements and his service to our nation. Ron began competing in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games 15 years ago. After participating in the Winter Sports Games in Grand Junction, Colorado in 1988, Ron fell in love with the area and subsequently relocated there. He has since lost track of the number of medals he has won, recently adding another four at the 23rd annual games in California. Each veteran who competes carries with him an inspirational story of dedication and perseverance. Ron is no exception, and I am proud to recognize his many accomplishments. All those who participate in the National Veterans Wheelchair games are military veterans who have spinal cord injuries or other disabilities that require wheelchairs. Mr. Speaker, Ron Gibson embodies the courage and strength of spirit that have made our nation strong. I commend him for his service and all of his recent accomplishments. Congratulations, Ron. I wish you all the best with your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this Congress and this nation to pay tribute to an outstanding public servant from my district, Steve Sherwood. Steve is the Deputy Forest Supervisor in the White River National Forest who works hard to protect and maintain our beloved natural areas. Steve's service throughout the country has helped keep our national forests open to everyone, providing a variety of users with access to recreation. Steve came to the White River National Forest in 2000, moving from Washington D.C. to be part of the wilderness that he loves. He spends most of his time overseeing the White River's wilderness, recreation, and heritage programs. As an outdoorsman, Steve has a better understanding of the needs of our forests; he is often fishing and biking throughout the lands he protects. When Steve is not at work protecting our public lands, he is at home with his wife Carolyn and his two children William and Jessica. Steve works hard in the hope that his children will have forests and wilderness areas to enjoy many years after he has gone. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Steve for his dedication, and it gives me great joy to inform this body of Congress and this nation of his hard work and devotion at the U.S. Forest Service. Thank you, Steve, for your hard work and dedication. Your commitment and involvement in our national forests will not be forgotten.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before this body of Congress and this nation to honor the career of a great man from my district. After twenty years of service, Dave Hoart, of Texas Creek, Colorado, is retiring from his post at the Division of Wildlife. Dave's invaluable contributions to the community will be missed, and I stand before you here today to honor his service. Dave began his position as the Custer County District Wildlife Manager in 1983. Selflessly, Dave attributes all of his success over the years to the community and not to his own actions. He has seen a great deal of change in the region during his term, serving as the person residents call when they have a question about any new developments in wildlife patterns. During Dave's tenure, the area has been transformed from a primarily small agricultural community to a larger, less-rural community. Mr. Speaker, it is people like Dave, and their willingness to dedicate so much of their lives to the betterment of the nation, that make America so great. His excellent rapport with the community and his expertise will be extremely difficult to replace. I wish him the best with all of his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a great American and a former United States Representative for Colorado's Third District. Frank Evans of Beulah, Colorado will celebrate his eightieth birthday this Saturday, and I am pleased to join with my colleagues in wishing him well on this momentous occasion. Frank was born in Pueblo back in 1923 and has lived a life devoted to serving others. Frank first answered the call to service when he bravely fought to uphold the cause of freedom as a Navy patrol pilot during World War II. After returning home, he practiced law in his native Pueblo. Drawn to a life of public service, Frank served in the Colorado State Legislature for four years and then went on to represent the Third Congressional District of the great State of Colorado in this prestigious body. Frank selflessly served the constituents of my district for fourteen years before choosing to leave the Congress. All told, Frank spent eighteen years faithfully representing his fellow citizens of the State of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, as Frank Evans prepares to celebrate his eightieth birthday, I am privileged to pay tribute to his remarkable life and numerous accomplishments. Frank dedicated many years of service to his friends and neighbors in Colorado. In both the Colorado State Legislature and in this body of Congress, Frank diligently served to meet the needs of his constituents. I am honored to join with my colleagues today in wishing Frank a happy birthday and many more great years ahead.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I rise today to recognize the life and passing of one of my district's most prominent and accomplished ranchers. Ray Macht was a lifelong community leader in Archuleta County and is credited with founding the Archuleta County Fair. In addition to having a wealth of agricultural knowledge, Ray's reputation preceded him throughout the county as a kind and honest man. I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Ray for the contributions that he made to the State of Colorado. Ray's ancestors have lived in the Pagosa Springs area since 1883, when his grandmother first brought the family across the Continental Divide. Ray stayed close to his family after graduating from Pagosa Springs High School and subsequently attending Fort Lewis College, where he met his future wife, Genelle. The two were married in 1933. Ray and Genelle maintained their involvement in the Archuleta County community by serving as 4-H leaders for 25 years, as well as serving on numerous local boards and organizations. 4-H awarded Ray their ``Western Heritage'' honor in 1999 in recognition of his expertise and commitment. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise before this body of Congress today to recognize the lifelong contributions that Ray Macht made to my district. Ray will be remembered for his devotion to his community, a legacy that will live on through the Archuleta County Fair. While he will be dearly missed, we can all take solace in the knowledge that Ray's spirit lives on through those whom he has touched.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this Nation today to pay tribute to Cody Shira, a courageous young man from Grand Junction, Colorado. Cody recently woke up his parents during the middle of the night when he discovered their house was on fire. The actions of this brave seven year old are truly remarkable, and I am proud to recognize him here today. While fast asleep, Cody was awakened to the smoke and flames set by an outdoor grill. The grill set fire to a bench, which helped spread the fire into the house through a window. Thanks to Cody's quick reaction, most of the bedrooms in the apartment were spared, helping to save many important belongings and memories. While the Shiras will have to rebuild the bottom level of the apartment, they thank Cody for helping to save not only their bedrooms, but also their lives. Mr. Speaker, Cody Shira is a true hero. His courageous and quick reaction helped save the lives of his family and much of his home. I am proud to gather with my fellow colleagues and speak of Cody's accomplishments, as his actions are truly remarkable. Good luck, Cody. I wish you the best with all of your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an American hero. John Walker of Pagosa Springs, Colorado is a World War II veteran and a survivor of the Bataan Death March. John recently received the Purple Heart and the Prisoner of War Medal. I am pleased to share his story here today. John, like so many of his generation, heeded the call of his country and fought for the United States during World War II. He was captured by the Japanese and survived the brutality of the Bataan Death March and three and a half years in prison camps, including Camp O'Donnell. John has a strong will to survive and made it through the terrifying ordeal to return home safely. John could have easily become consumed by hatred over the way he and his fellow servicemen were treated, but rather John triumphed over that hatred and learned to forgive his former captors. John has even gone to Japan four times to help build churches there. Mr. Speaker, on August 26th, John Walker was awarded the Purple Heart and the Prisoner of War Medal. These awards are certainly well deserved, and I join with my colleagues in saluting him. John, your bravery and dedication are an inspiration. Thank you, and congratulations.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to recognize a charitable organization that works to improve the lives of blind or visually impaired children throughout the United States. The Rush-Miller Foundation raises money to donate bicycles to visually impaired children in ten different states across the country. The foundation works to inspire confidence and a more active lifestyle in children who are visually impaired. The Rush-Miller foundation was formed in 2001 in recognition of the benefits that the initial project had conferred upon Garrett Rush- Miller. Garrett had been an outgoing, active child until a malignant brain tumor inhibited his usual activities and he stopped playing outside. With the hope that a tandem bicycle could improve Garrett's outlook, his parents were able to obtain a bicycle through the charitable contributions of many friends and sponsors. Now, the Rush- Miller foundation aspires to help other children like Garrett by donating bicycles to help restore their active lifestyles. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Rush-Miller Foundation for their philanthropic work. I commend the foundation for its noble objective and congratulate everyone involved on their tremendous success. I wish the foundation all the best in the years to come.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before this body of Congress and this nation to recognize and honor two remarkable women from my district. Nanette LeBorgne of Rifle, Colorado and Brenda Rice of Parachute have defied the odds and prevailed in the fight against cancer. Today, they fight a new battle, helping raise money for cancer research and assisting other cancer victims with their recovery efforts. I am honored to recognize these two brave women who now devote their lives to helping others conquer this deadly disease. Nanette and Brenda have developed a close relationship, not only with each other, but also with other cancer survivors in their community. Both women understand the array of emotions one undergoes when first being diagnosed with the disease. They can also relate to the triumphant feeling of victory upon overcoming their struggles. Brenda volunteers her time to share advice with other cancer sufferers on how she was able to cope with the disease, in addition to simply providing them with someone to talk to and identify with their ordeal. Nanette is a Team Captain for the Relay for Life in Rifle, a fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. This year her team will donate over $1000 to the organization. Mr. Speaker, it is a great privilege to honor Nanette LeBorgne and Brenda Rice for their courage and contributions to cancer research. Their spirit of community service and altruistic dedication to the welfare of other cancer victims is truly commendable. Their stories of recovery and survival are an inspiration to us all.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen and a devoted spiritual leader. Reverend Eugene Fenton of La Junta, Colorado has served as a minister for twenty-five years. Before joining the ministry, Eugene worked for twenty-five years as a plant manager and industrial engineer. His devotion, hard work, and humility inspire those around him, and his dedication to his career shows a spirit of loyalty all too rare in today's society. I rise to honor his service here today. Eugene is the pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in La Junta. He has served all across this country as a pastor, teacher, coach, and counselor. He came to La Junta after trying to retire and finding that he still wanted to work. His parishioners refer to him as a ``God send'' whose tireless work has strengthened and uplifted their church. - Eugene's remarkable loyalty is shown not only by the twenty-five years he has devoted to the ministry, but also by the twenty-five years he devoted to his career as a plant manager and industrial engineer before he took up his pastoral studies. Eugene leads by example and often draws on his experiences to better relate to his parishioners. Mr. Speaker, Eugene Fenton is the kind of devoted leader our community looks to for guidance and inspiration. He has devoted twenty- five years to his chosen career guiding his parishioners. I am honored to join with my colleagues today to thank him for his tireless work and to wish him the best of luck as he continues to serve the community that he loves so much.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to an outstanding organization in my district. Camp Good Grief! in Cedaredge, Colorado provides children coping with the loss of a loved one with a place to grieve and interact with other children experiencing similar emotions. The camp's work is invaluable in the lives of its campers, and I am proud to bring it to the attention of my colleagues here today. Camp Good Grief! offers kids a weekend retreat to help them deal with death, pairing them up with a counselor who provides support in sorting through their feelings. There are approximately forty-five staff counselors who offer companionship and serve as a friend while leading the children in their activities. Throughout the weekend, children participate in various arts and crafts that aim to help them to better cope with their loss and manage the grieving process. Camp Good Grief! invites children in grades three through eight to spend the weekend while also providing a teen retreat for high school aged kids. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the people who make Camp Good Grief! possible. Their altruistic pledge to helping kids in their time of need is truly commendable. Dealing with the loss of a loved one is not easy for anyone, let alone a child. This camp does a tremendous service in helping our kids cope with death. I want to recognize them for their commendable service.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I rise today before this body of Congress to honor the memory of a great citizen. Sue O'Brien passed away peacefully on August 6, 2003 after battling cancer. Sue was the respected and well-liked editor of The Denver Post's opinion page and a long time figure in public policy. As Colorado and the larger community mourn her passing, I would like to pay tribute to her memory. Sue was born on March 6, 1939 in Iowa, settling in Denver with her first husband, Jim Hautzinger, and their children in 1961. Sue was a stay-at-home-mom who was busy with the League of Women Voters, Young Democrats, and the drive for school desegregation and fair housing. Sue began her career in the media in 1968 when she reported on the riots at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago for KTLN/KTLK-AM radio. Through the years, Sue worked as an anchor and political reporter for local and national television and radio. Sue was a pioneer for women in news management when, in 1976, she became the news director for KOA-TV and radio in Denver. In 1995, Sue became the head of The Denver Post opinion page. She took her job very seriously and gave great thought to everything that crossed her desk. Sue was always fair and always forthright, and her colleagues respected her ability and integrity. Politicians in both parties respected Sue as well. She worked for two governors and was routinely consulted by Republicans and Democrats alike. Sue painstakingly examined every issue and always gave her honest and candid opinion. On a personal level, I hold Sue in high regard. I always enjoyed speaking with her about the issues of the day, and several years ago, Sue was my personal guest in the House gallery for the President's State of the Union Address. She had a strong set of values and cared deeply about helping people, qualities that will be sorely missed. Mr. Speaker, Sue O'Brien was a person whose hallmark was fairness and integrity. She was a committed idealist who worked every day to make the world a better place. Sue had great love for her family and tremendous pride in the accomplishments of her children. She was a master journalist who never faltered in her attention to detail. Sue O'Brien was a great American, a great journalist, and, most importantly, a great person. I join with my colleagues today in honoring her memory and her life.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I stand before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to the life of a brave citizen from my district. Army Staff Sergeant Mark Lawton of Hayden, Colorado was taken from us while serving his country in Iraq. His sacrifice for this grateful nation will not be forgotten. I am truly humbled to honor him here before you today. As a young man, Mark was an excellent athlete and ran track for Moffat County High School. Prior to his service with the Army Reserves, Mark spent 14 years in the Marine Corps, serving in the first Gulf War. In his civilian life, Mark worked for a local coal company as a heavy equipment operator. Most importantly, he was a family man who leaves behind a wife and two sons. While his family's feelings of loss and sorrow are deep, they can take solace in the fact that Mark died in the service of the people and ideals of our nation. Mr. Speaker, I cannot fully express my deep sense of gratitude for Mark's sacrifice and that of his family. Staff Sergeant Lawton displayed the strength of character and loyalty to his country that makes America and its citizens great. Throughout our history, men and women in uniform have fought for our freedom with distinction and courage. At the dawn of this new century, the United States military has once again been called upon to defend our freedom against a new and emerging threat. Mark has done all Americans proud, and I know he has the respect and admiration of all of my colleagues here today. He will be truly missed.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation to pay tribute to a most remarkable individual from my district. Walter Timme of Pueblo, Colorado honorably served in the Army during World War II, leaving his motorcycle sales business to answer his country's call to duty. Walter's service to our country in its time of need is indicative of his commitment to our nation, which I would like to recognize here today. Putting his passion for motorcycles on hold, Walt kissed his wife goodbye and shipped off to New Caledonia and Biak in the South Pacific. It was not long after they learned of his mechanical abilities that the Army put Walt to work as an aircraft engine repair technician. Walt's knowledge of engines, acquired from his fondness of motorcycles, provided him with an unparalleled skill for fixing planes. Our country owes Walt a debt of gratitude for his service during WWII. Walt returned safely from the war and revisited his passion for motorcycles. Aside from his time spent serving the country during WWII, Walt has been selling motorcycles since 1938. Walt's entrepreneurial spirit and business savvy have provided his community with jobs and services for over six decades. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to stand before this body of Congress today and recognize the loyal service of Walt Timme to our nation. Walt's wealth of knowledge regarding mechanics served as a tremendous resource to the Army in a time of need. Thank you Walt, and best of luck with your future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a selfless community servant and dedicated coach from Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Don Miller is being inducted into the National High School Athletic Coaches Association's Hall of Fame for his 31 years of outstanding dedication and commitment to the Glenwood Springs Football, Track and Wrestling teams. I would like to join with the National High School Athletic Coaches Association and the Glenwood Springs Community in recognizing Don's accomplishments. Don is a graduate of Western State College, where he excelled as a member of the football team. He began his career at Glenwood Springs High School in the early 1960's and has remained a loyal member of the faculty ever since, mentoring generations of young GWS athletes. Don has provided thousands of Glenwood students with a coach and mentor; a man they could respect and learn from. Don's record as a football coach speaks for itself. With 204 wins, 17 appearances in the state tournament, and two state titles, Don is certainly a deserving inductee. Don is known for his ``old school'' form of coaching; he was a hard-nosed, in-your-face type of coach who expected a ``never give up'' attitude from his players. Don will be the twelfth coach from Colorado to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, and was the fifth coach to reach the 200 win landmark. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues in applauding Don's service to Glenwood Springs High School. This recognition is long overdue, and I am proud to recognize him here today. Congratulations, Don, on this prestigious honor; you have made Colorado and the Glenwood community very proud.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress today to recognize Frank Martinez for his courageous act which saved the life of Kelly McNeil. The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission awarded Frank a Bronze Medal in recognition of the risk and valor he displayed in this selfless act. I am proud to join my colleagues here today in applauding Frank for his heroic action. Kelly McNeil was fishing on San Luis Lake with his family when he suddenly fell from his boat into the lake. After an unsuccessful rescue attempt by Kelly's son, Frank swam 600 feet out into the lake to rescue Kelly. Frank proceeded to position Kelly on his back to keep him above water and then made his way back to shore. Thanks to Frank's heroism, Kelly recovered quickly after receiving treatment for hypothermia. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Frank before this body of Congress today. His brave act serves as a reminder to all Americans of the courage upon which our great nation is founded. I congratulate Frank on the prestigious award that has been bestowed upon him and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. McINNIS

Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a courageous and dedicated veteran of our state, Pete Jimenez of Pueblo, Colorado. As a member of the Army's infamous E Company in World War II, Pete gallantly served, protecting our freedoms on the field of battle. Pete is the newest recipient of the Croix de Guerre, a medal given by the President of France for uncommon heroism, valor, and bravery during battle. Pete has also been named a Knight of the Legion of Honor. This is the most prestigious of French military awards, and past recipients include President Ronald Reagan, President George Bush, and Secretary of State Colin Powell. I would like to join my colleagues in congratulating Pete and recognizing his deeds here today. Pete will receive these commendations for events that took place throughout World War II, but particularly on September 17, 1944. On this day, Pete voluntarily took command of a patrol whose mission was to enter the city and knock out an enemy 20mm embedded cannon that was holding up the Allied advance. They were also told to investigate a vast underground structure that was possibly holding an American prisoner of war. In the destruction of the 20mm cannon, Pete single handedly killed two German soldiers while exposed to enemy fire. As Pete approached the underground structure, his squad encountered a number of enemy soldiers. After a significant struggle, they accepted the surrender of a 200 man fighting force positioned inside the structure. Due to the ferocity of Pete's squad, the enemy believed they were under attack from a much larger force and threw down their weapons. This is just one of the many heroic events that Pete Jimenez participated in during World War II. As the war ended, Pete was decorated with several medals, representing the valor and courage he displayed. He would go on to receive the World War II Victory Medal, four Bronze Stars for participation in the Normandy, Northern France, Central Europe, and Rhineland campaigns and two Bronze Stars for heroism and valor. Pete would also receive the Good Conduct Medal and the Purple Heart, as Pete was wounded five times in battle. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues here today in congratulating Pete and in recognizing this prestigious honor. This recognition to Pete for the work he did for our country is long overdue, and I am proud to bring his achievements to the attention of this body of Congress today. Congratulations and thanks again, Pete, for your many years of hard work on behalf of the United States.