Mike McIntyre

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Chair, during rollcall vote No. 414 the Amash amendment on H.R. 2055, I mistakenly recorded my vote as ``yes'' when I should have voted ``no.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote Number 395 on H.R. 2017 (Gosar), I mistakenly recorded my vote as ``yea,'' when I should have voted ``nay.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. I thank my friend, Ranking Member Smith, as well as full committee Chairman McKeon, and also thanks to the subcommittee chairman and my good friend, Todd Akin, for all of their hard work in helping us not only on this full armed services bill but also, in particular, on the Seapower and Projection Forces portion of this bill, which passed with strong bipartisan support in our subcommittee and in the full subcommittee. The work of the subcommittee continues the long tradition of providing strong support for our men and women in uniform. The projects authorized in this bill are critical to our country's ability to project power anywhere in the world at any time. This bill includes $14.9 billion for shipbuilding that would authorize a total of 10 new ships, including two Virginia class submarines, one Arleigh Burke class destroyer, four Littoral Combat Ships, one San Antonio class amphibious ship, one Mobile Landing Platform Ship, and one Joint High Speed Vessel. This mark also authorizes $1.1 billion for the National Defense Sealift Fund. There are a number of legislative provisions included in this bill which are aimed at providing a more efficient way to procure ships and weapons systems. In addition, this bill includes several provisions that require increased oversight over critical programs that will ensure they stay on schedule and on cost. In particular, this bill requires the Comptroller General to conduct an annual review and report on the progress of the KC-46 tanker program. All of these provisions, plus others, represent the subcommittee's commitment to ensuring that all major programs receive the proper oversight to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and effectively. This bill is a balanced authorization of programs under the jurisdiction of the subcommittee, and it meets the needs of our men and women in uniform. Again, I want to thank Chairman Akin for his hard work, and I strongly urge all of my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise today to pay tribute to the City of Wilmington, North Carolina, for its remarkable contributions to the U.S. war efforts during World War II. Its rich World War II legacy reminds us not only of its unique and pivotal role in the war, but also of the honorable dedication of all North Carolinians during our nation's time of need. As a reflection of its unique and pivotal role, and its deep and unmatched sacrifice, I stand to proclaim that Wilmington, North Carolina, should be recognized as ``America's World War II City.'' In fact, both the New Hanover County Commissioners and City Council have proclaimed it so! During World War II, Wilmington was the country's unique wartime boomtown, aptly and officially named ``The Defense Capital of the State.'' The once-quiet seaside city, geographically isolated for decades, suddenly found itself an exploding center for military life and defense production. Wilmington's wartime efforts were extensive and honorable. Wilmington based and trained all five military services--the Air Force at the Wilmington Airport, the Army at Camp Davis and Fort Fisher, the Navy at Fort Caswell, the Coast Guard at Wrightsville Beach, and the Marine Corps at Camp Lejeune. The North Carolina Shipbuilding Company of Wilmington, the state's largest employer at that time, constructed 243 cargo vessels with which to provide goods and equipment to our soldiers. Additionally, Wilmington provided the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad headquarters, three housing camps for German prisoners of war, a major training base for P-47 fighters, defense industries producing goods and equipment, a British patrol base, and a shipping point for Lend Lease supplies to the Allies. Wilmington's most important contribution by far, though, was its dispatch of thousands of its sons and daughters to fight the enemy. These New Hanover County men and women served in uniform, fighting on land, sea, and air as Navy frogmen, P-51 fighter aces, Tuskegee airmen, submarine skippers, bomber pilots, Marine riflemen, Army artillerymen, physicians and nurses, and volunteers of all sorts. Tragically, 248 Wilmington men bravely lost their lives as a result of their courageous efforts to defend America. Two New Hanover High School graduates received the Congressional Medal of Honor and numerous others received high decorations for valor, including Navy Crosses, Distinguished Service Crosses, and Distinguished Flying Crosses. Furthermore, Wilmington's strategic position made it vulnerable to enemy attack by German U-boats, which marauded shipping off our beaches. In July 1943 a U-boat fired at the Ethel-Dow chemical plant in Wilmington, perhaps the only German attack on America. Wilmington endured this attack, as well as constant civilian defense restrictions and air raid drills, including black-outs and dim-outs. The city's population more than doubled with the influx of military personnel, forcing locals to cope with strain on housing and schools, transportation, medical and social services, law enforcement, and food supply. Mr. Speaker, Wilmingtonians sacrificed in every imaginable way when our nation needed them during World War II. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognition and appreciation of Wilmington's contributions to the U.S. war effort during World War II. Now, in the spirit of that appreciation, let it be known that Wilmington, North Carolina, should be recognized as ``America's World War II City.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Elizabeth Redenbaugh, of Wilmington, North Carolina, who has been named an honoree of the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. On May 23,2011, Mrs. Redenbaugh will be recognized for standing up to racial and socioeconomic segregation perceived in the New Hanover County school system. The John F. Kennedy Library Foundation will be presenting the award. Caroline Kennedy, the President of the Foundation, has said of Mrs. Redenbaugh: ``She boldly challenged the citizens of her community to preserve quality public education for all of New Hanover County's children regardless of race.'' In light of these acts, the foundation's committee saw fit to bestow upon Elizabeth Redenbaugh what is generally seen as the highest honor available to United States public servants. As well as serving on the New Hanover County School Board, Mrs. Redenbaugh practices as an attorney with Redenbaugh & Risser, PLLC. So committed is she to public service that she serves as a member of Parsley Elementary School's Site Based Management Team and PTA Board of Directors and also as a member of the New Hanover County Council of PTAs' Executive Board. Her tenacious efforts in Southeastern North Carolina are those of a true leader utterly dedicated to the betterment of local education, and her community as a whole. Mrs. Redenbaugh's personal courage and political courage are to be congratulated. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me in recognizing a local heroine, whose principled efforts in the face of robust opposition might serve as an example to us all. Let us celebrate a noble public servant, soon to be the recipient of an award intent on decorating those who choose principle over partisanship, a quality we should all strive to emulate for the good of the United States.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote Number 92 (Kline Amendment No. 214) on H.R. 1, I mistakenly recorded my vote as ``no'' when I should have voted ``yes.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Chair, I rise in strong opposition to the Broun amendment that would eliminate funding for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers coastal projects. Simply put--this is a ``penny wise/pound foolish'' effort. Representing a coastal district I can speak first hand to the importance of coastal projects. Beaches are of incredible economic importance to the local, state, regional, and national economy contributing nearly $35 billion in annual Federal revenues. There are over 2 billion visits made to our nation's beaches each year, with the Federal Government collecting $320 per beach tourists for every $1 spent on beach renourishment! And more people visit our nation's beaches each year than all of our national parks combined! North Carolina beaches create about 50,000 jobs, $1.6 billion in spending revenues, $78 million in state revenue and beach-related tourism provides a total payroll of $350 million! But the coast is also something much more important than numbers--it is a place where our batteries can be recharged, where family memories are built, and where many choose to live out the sunset of their lives. Let's reject this amendment and support the coastal communities which support and provide much-needed employment and enjoyment for our Nation!

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Chair, during rollcall vote No. 74 on H.R. 1, I mistakenly recorded my vote as ``no'' when I should have voted ``yes.'' I ask unanimous consent that my statement appear in the Record following rollcall vote No. 74. Amendment No. 410 Offered by Mr. Price of Georgia

Mr. McINTYRE. During rollcall vote number 86 on February 17, 2011, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.'' Amendment No. 204 Offered by Mr. Scalise

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Chairman, as a ranking subcommittee member of the House Armed Services Committee and as a strong supporter of the Joint Strike Fighter Competitive Engine Program, I rise today in opposition to this amendment for three basic reasons. First, the competitive engine program will save billions in taxpayer dollars. Second, it will create thousands of jobs. Third, it is imperative to our national security. I think all three of these are issues that all of us share a bipartisan concern about. I am pleased, in fact, to join both the Armed Services Committee chairman and the ranking member of the full committee as well as many of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle, Democratic and Republican, in supporting this competitive program for the alternative engine. First, contrary to what you may have heard, the competitive engine program is about saving billions of dollars in taxpayer money. Competition does drive down costs, it does raise quality, and ensures responsiveness from the manufacturers. With the JSF program being the largest defense program in our Nation's history, we have to make sure that we have that competition to get the best quality and the lowest price. Striking funding for a competitive engine will give a 30-year $100 billion monopoly to a sole contractor. Funding the F136 engine, however, will allow two companies to compete head to head, resulting in the best price and the best engine. In fact, GAO studies have indicated that competition from the F136 engine will actually save taxpayers $21 billion over the life of the Joint Strike Fighter program. Second, the competitive engine program is about saving jobs. Currently, there are 2,500 U.S. jobs supporting the development of the alternative engine. Once full production occurs, the number will rise to 4,000. Third, the competitive engine program is about national security. Without a competitive engine, U.S. and allied forces will be dependent entirely upon one engine for 90 percent of our fighter jet fleets. One small problem could ground the entire fleet, which is something that none of us would want. This program is not about favoring one particular contractor over another. It is about having strong bipartisan support for competition, for creating jobs, for national security, and for saving taxpayer money. In fact, this was demonstrated when this was voted on last year when we had 116 Republicans and 115 Democrats--that's about as even as you can get--vote for the funding of the alternative competitive program. For these reasons, I strongly oppose this amendment and rise in support of saving $21 billion in taxpayer money, of creating jobs, and of ensuring our national security through the alternative engine competitive program. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of National Marriage Week, which occurs annually during the week of February 7th. National Marriage Week was established to help couples strengthen their commitment to each other by hosting special events, marriage classes, and home support groups. While it is important for couples to focus on their marriage every day, National Marriage Week is an excellent opportunity for Americans to rededicate themselves to their spouse and to their family. Marriage was ordained and instituted by God. It is the glue that binds the American family, and the safest harbor in which to raise children. Studies indicate that men and women who have a strong marriage tend to live longer, have better health, and experience more personal joy. Strong marriages also create the safest harbor for children to flourish and experience the complete spiritual, moral, emotional, educational, and financial benefits of both parents. I have been a long-time advocate of traditional marriage, and have been pleased to support numerous pieces of legislation to protect this sacred institution. The family structure is the cornerstone of our society, and we should emphasize its importance. I encourage all Americans to use this opportunity to renew their commitment and devotion to their spouse, and to personally take the steps they can to preserve this important institution.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a truly outstanding North Carolinian, Dr. D.E. Ward, Jr., of Lumberton, North Carolina. On January 31, 2011, a month after his 90th birthday, Dr. Ward retired from the practice of medicine after 57 years of service to his community, which is also my own hometown. I ask that you join me in recognizing his long and honorable career. After graduating from Wake Forest School of Medicine, Dr. Ward interned for a year at the Philadelphia General Hospital, and then served our country in the U.S. Navy Reserve. After returning to Wake Forest and finishing his residency, Dr. Ward became a surgeon in Lumberton, where he has remained all of these years. In addition to his professional practice, Dr. Ward has bettered his community in countless ways. He has served with distinction as president of the North Carolina Medical Society and on my Seventh Congressional District Advisory Committee on Medical and Health Affairs. Dr. Ward volunteered for 22 years as Lumberton High School's football, baseball, and basketball team doctor. He also has been recognized by numerous civic and medical organizations for his contributions, including receiving the Order of the Long Leaf Pine-- North Carolina's highest civilian honor--in 2001 and the Wake Forest Distinguished Alumni Award in 2004. His patients (including my late father, who was a fraternity brother of Dr. Ward's in college), employees, and colleagues praise him as courteous, professional, kind, and one of the best doctors and best people they know. Mr. Speaker, Dr. D.E. Ward, Jr., has practiced medicine in Robeson County for decades and has made our community a better and healthier place. As he closes the final chapter of his career, I wish Dr. Ward and his family well, and may God's richest blessings be upon them. I ask that you join me today in recognition of his impressive career of serving the community.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, two weeks ago, General David Petraeus designated our troops in Afghanistan part of the ``New Greatest Generation.'' I agree wholeheartedly with the General's words, and rise today to pay tribute to one of those great American heroes, Private First Class Amy Sinkler, of Chadbourn, North Carolina. On the morning of January 20, 2011, Amy lost her life while defending our Nation in Afghanistan during an attack by insurgents. I ask that you join me in honoring her memory and service as we mourn this tragic loss. A native daughter of Chadbourn, Amy had always expressed her desire to serve her country. Amy graduated from West Columbus High School in 2006. While in high school, she participated in the Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps to prepare for a career in the Army, which she joined in August of 2009. After training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, Amy joined the 109th Transportation Company, the ``Rough Riders,'' stationed at Fort Richardson in Alaska. She began serving in Afghanistan in July 2010, and she was sadly taken from us just six months into her first tour of duty. Amy was only 23. Amy will be sorely missed by her family and friends. She was the daughter of Randolph and Jackie Bullock Thompson and a sister to four siblings, Brittney, Sharonda, Sabrina, and Randolph Jr. She was the loving wife of Douglas Sinkler, her high school sweetheart, with whom she made her home. Her grandparents were Roosevelt and Irene Thompson and Raleigh Early and Juanita Bullock. Amy touched countless lives by serving as an admirable example of selfless service. She was so admired by her family, friends, and community, in fact, that hundreds of people attended vigils in remembrance of her. Amy's funeral on January 30, 2011, was one of the largest ever held in Columbus County, with over 1,000 people coming to pay their respects to Amy and her family. Mr. Speaker, it has been said that a person demonstrates greater nobility in war than in peace. Amy Sinkler's inspirational life and service to our country prove this to be true, and we will always remain in awe of the life she lived. May God bless her family, and may we always remember the life of Private First Class Amy Sinkler.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Madam Speaker, during rollcall vote No. 613 on December 8, 2010, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Commander Douglas Kunzman, as well as the officers and crew of the USS Gravely, which will be commissioned by the United States Navy in Wilmington, North Carolina, on November 20, 2010. This strong, state-of-the-art destroyer joins an impressive group of ships on deployment protecting our nation and defending our freedoms and national security interests. As a senior member of the U.S. House Committee on Armed Services and a longtime supporter of our great nation's military and those who have served our country, it is my honor to recognize the USS Gravely as the 57th unit of the ARLEIGH BURKE Class of guided missile destroyers. Named for Vice Admiral Samuel Lee Gravely, Jr., the first African- American commanding officer of a naval ship, this guided missile destroyer was constructed at Northrup Grumman Corporation's Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula, MS. Her keel was laid on November 26, 2007, launched on March 30, 2009, and christened on May 16, 2009. Impressively, the USS Gravely has an overall length of 510 ft, beam of 66 ft, full load displacement of 9,200 tons and a mean full load draft of 33 ft. The people of Southeastern North Carolina are honored to welcome and host Commander Kunzman and his crew for the commissioning festivities for this new vessel and hope they will consider the coastline of this state as a special home for them. I am especially appreciative of the Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Ray Mabus, for granting the request for this commissioning to occur in North Carolina and for his recent visit to Wilmington in anticipation of this important event, as well as for the celebration of Navy Day. The State of North Carolina and this nation are deeply proud of the personal talent and ability represented by the officers and crew of this new destroyer. It is their spirit, service, and sacrifice for which we all are extremely grateful. Madam Speaker, may we also never forget the bravery and dedication of those who have served before, those who currently serve, and those who will serve our country--and may we continue to receive inspiration from their courageous words and deeds. May God's blessings be with the USS Gravely, her officers, and her crew as she begins her time in service to this wonderful nation--the United States of America.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Madam Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise today to ask you to join me in recognizing the Lumberton All-Star Majors team of Lumberton, North Carolina, on being named National Champions at the 2010 Dixie Youth Majors World Series. Each year, the Youth Baseball Association in my hometown of Lumberton, North Carolina, participates in Dixie Youth Baseball in the Coach Pitch (7-8 year olds), Minors (9 and 10 year olds), and Majors (11 and 12 year olds) classifications. Each baseball season concludes with the formation of an All-Star team chosen by coaches for each of those classifications. These All-Star teams participate in district and State tournaments. This year, the Lumberton All-Star Majors team won both its district and State tournaments without losing a single game. The team went on to win the 2010 Dixie Youth Majors World Series held in Gonzalas, Louisiana, finally earning the title of National Champions on August 12, 2010. This is the third time that a North Carolina team has earned this title since 1956. It is remarkable that each of these three North Carolina championship teams has come from North Carolina's Seventh District. Additionally, the team won the ``Around-the-Horn Relay'' during opening ceremonies and one of its members, Daniel Oxendine, hit sixteen home runs to win the ``Home Run Derby.'' Most importantly, however, throughout their weeks of practice and competition, each player and coach conducted himself in a manner that reflected the values of the people of Lumberton, North Carolina. Madam Speaker, the members of the Lumberton Youth Baseball Association 2010 Majors All-Star team deserve acclaim for their skill as well as for being outstanding ambassadors of the City of Lumberton, the County of Robeson, and the State of North Carolina. Their names are: Alec Brewington, Raleigh Forrest, Jack Frederick, Gage Hardin, Austin Hayes, Hunter Jolicouer, Tyler Musselwhite, Evan Odum, Daniel Oxendine, Austin Swiderski, Travis Suggs, and Richard Thomas. As founder of the Congressional Caucus on Youth Sports, and also as both a long-time Lumberton little league coach and one who grew up playing baseball in Lumberton, as well as a charter member of the Lumberton Youth Baseball Association, Inc., I appreciate the dedication, determination, and teamwork that earned these players the esteemed title of National Champions. I am also impressed by the volunteer coaches that led this team to victory--Robert Brewington, Kevin Hayes, and Thomas Odum--as well as the parents of each player and the Lumberton community as a whole for supporting these young baseball players as they worked to achieve their dream. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Lumberton All-Star Majors National Championship team, and wishing them the very best in all of their future endeavors.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise today in honor of the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. On July 26, 1990, thousands gathered on the South Lawn of the White House as former President George H.W. Bush signed into law legislation that would provide a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities. This moment changed the lives of so many Americans, and I rise today to recognize the overwhelming importance of this law. Over the past 20 years, this law has allowed Americans with disabilities to have access to educational opportunities, employment, transportation, buildings, and community affairs that once presented insurmountable obstacles. In June of 2008, it was my honor to advance the cause of this legislation even further by voting in favor of the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act, legislation which provides Americans with disabilities an even broader scope of freedom and protection. And today, it is my honor yet again to support a House Resolution recognizing and honoring this 20th anniversary of the original Act. Mr. Speaker, this law has improved the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities. But while we celebrate the freedom and opportunities provided by the ADA, we must also recognize that there is more work to be done. We should help all Americans, regardless of their physical or mental abilities. I am committed to continuing this work, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure all people can reach their full potential.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Madam Speaker, on July 14, 2010, I inadvertently voted ``yes'' on rollcall No. 437 on H. Res. 1509 when I meant to vote ``no.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my strong support of Social Security. This year, we celebrate 75 years of this critical program, and we must reaffirm our commitment not only to protect it but to ensure its continuing viability. America's senior citizens have lived through wars and recessions as well as periods of unprecedented prosperity. They have pioneered technologies in medicine, communications, transportation, and industry. These remarkable achievements demonstrate the strength and character of our older Americans, underscoring the debt of gratitude that we owe to generations that have given so much--one generation which includes my own parents, who are celebrating birthdays this week and next. Unfortunately, the recent recession has reminded us that economic prosperity is never a guarantee; and in times of such uncertainty, our Nation's seniors need the steadiness of Social Security now more than ever. Some have suggested that privatizing certain aspects of Social Security will somehow strengthen it. Well, I say not. I urge my colleagues to fiercely resist any such effort to privatize Social Security and to risk our seniors' well-being with the volatile, unpredictable nature of the market. I ask my colleagues to come together and to continue the promise that was made 75 years ago for those who have given so much to our society.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 398, on this vote, I was unavoidably detained and was unable to vote. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes.'' Stated against:

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 1389, a resolution that recognizes the immeasurable contributions of fathers in the healthy development of children, supports responsible fatherhood, and encourages greater involvement of fathers in the lives of their children, especially with the celebration of Father's Day coming up this weekend. On June 20, our Nation will celebrate the special place that fathers have in our country. From helping with homework to playing ball to reading a book to offering advice and support or to just listening and spending time with children, each and every day fathers of all ages contribute to the mental, moral, spiritual, and physical development of children, teenagers and, yes, adults. According to the National Fatherhood Initiative, children with involved, loving fathers are significantly more likely to do well in school, have a healthy self-esteem, exhibit empathy and good behavior, and avoid high-risk activities, such as drug use and even criminal activity. H. Res. 1389 recognizes the commitment of fathers and the wonderful work that both parents do on behalf of their kids, and I encourage my colleagues to join us as we all recommit ourselves to being the best fathers that we can be and honoring our fathers and grandfathers everywhere. In conclusion, I would like to publicly thank my own father, Dr. Douglas C. McIntyre, for the great example he has been to me throughout my life and for the dedication and support he has shown in my every endeavor. Indeed, may we all intend and exemplify the type of example that we would want our own children to one day exhibit when they may have that opportunity to be a father. Mr. Speaker, I ask for a ``yes'' vote on this important bill.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Chair, as a member of the House Armed Services Committee and a strong supporter of the Joint Strike Fighter alternative engine program, I rise today in opposition to the Pingree/ Larson Amendment. This amendment, which would redirect funding for the program, is about terminating jobs, killing competition and giving a $100 billion monopoly to one contractor who is already $2.5 billion (50 percent) over budget. This amendment would add $20 billion to the deficit by eliminating the savings GAO says will occur with competition. Supporting this amendment means making the choice to give one company a sole source contract for the next 30 years versus having two companies compete head-to-head every year, resulting in the best price and best engine. There was no competition for this program. The engines for every major weapons program in history have been competed--except for the Joint Strike Fighter, the largest defense program ever. Congress is not required to give a rubber stamp to the Defense Department, which has been proven wrong in its opposition to several key programs, including development of the Predator, creation of the U.S. Special Operations Command and funding for the V-22 Osprey. If this amendment passes, our national security will be put at grave risk, as the U.S. and Allied forces will depend entirely on one engine for 90 percent of their fighter jet fleets. And, there will be job loss. We must maintain our support of the competitive engine program to sustain the thousands of jobs in the United States that are a result of this program. I am pleased to join both the Armed Services Committee Chairman and Ranking Member, and the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the Air & Land Forces, the Sea Power & Expeditionary Forces Subcommittees, and the Acquisition Reform Panel in opposing this amendment. My colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee and I approved funding for the alternative engine program to continue, and the Department of Defense's own analysis states that ``the estimated costs of a competitive engine acquisition strategy are projected to be approximately equivalent to a sole-source scenario.'' If that is the case, I am confident the benefits of a competitive engine strategy warrant continued support. Therefore, I strongly oppose the Pingree/Larson amendment and I rise in support of keeping jobs, sustaining competition, and our country's national security.

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 322, I was unavoidably detained, and was not present for this vote. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.''

Mr. McINTYRE

Mr. McINTYRE. Mr. Chairman, this amendment would add $20 billion to the deficit by eliminating the savings that GAO says will occur with competition. Congress is not required to give a rubber stamp to the Department of Defense, which is opposed to other programs like the formation of the U.S. Special Operations Command and funding for the V- 22 Osprey. If this amendment passes, our national security will be put at grave risk as 90 percent of our fighter jet fleets will be dependent on just one engine. That's not wise and it's not fair.