Jeff Miller

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to recognize the life and service of my friend, Northwest Florida's beloved Charles Hutton ``Bull'' Rigdon, Jr. Throughout his long and distinguished life, Bull was a devoted family man, a patriotic veteran and civil servant, committed civic leader, an exceptional elected official, and a great friend. The entire Northwest Florida community mourns the passing of a truly remarkable man. Bull Rigdon was born in Portland, Florida on September 29, 1929, and he spent the majority of his childhood years growing up in beautiful Northwest Florida. A true patriot, Bull served with honor and distinction in the United States Army, where he served in both World War II and the Korean War. After leaving the Armed Forces, Bull continued his service to our Nation as a civil engineer working at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Thanks to his hard-work and commitment to excellence, Bull's 43-year career as a civil servant at Eglin Air Force Base was marked with wide-spread success and acclaim. Both during and after his extremely successful civil service career, Bull was also deeply involved as a leader in Northwest Florida's civic society. He was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, where he served as a church elder, as well as a Mason and Shriner, serving as Past Potentate of Hadji Temple and Master Mason of Alpha Lodge #172. In these capacities, he helped touch the lives of countless individuals in Northwest Florida, and he served as a true example of selfless community service. Bull was also a dedicated local official, serving for decades in various electoral capacities. In 1964, he won a seat on the Fort Walton Beach City Council, where he served until 1981. During this stint on the City Council, Bull also served numerous times as Mayor Pro-Tem of Fort Walton Beach. Bull rejoined the City Council briefly in 1985, when he was asked to fill a temporary vacancy, before returning to the City Council full time in 2010, where he continued to serve the people of Fort Walton Beach until his passing. In addition to his exceptional service on the City Council, Bull also served for three decades on the Okaloosa County Gas Board, representing the people of Okaloosa County. He played an integral role helping to attract businesses and promote economic development in Northwest Florida, as evidenced by his election to serve as the first Chairman of the West Florida Regional Planning Council, as well as his service on the Tourist Development Council Board. On top of these impressive civic duties, Bull also served as CEO of the Northwest Florida Fair until his death. In recognition of his impressive leadership and dedication, the Fort Walton Beach City Council voted in 2009 to name the fairgrounds in his honor. To some, Bull Rigdon will be remembered as a patriot, who answered the call to serve this great Nation with honor and distinction, first in the Armed Forces and then for more than four decades of exceptional civil service at Eglin Air Force Base. To others, he will be remembered as a man of great faith, who took on important positions at his church, and as a long-time elected official who went above and beyond the call of duty to serve the residents of the community that he called home. To his family and those of us who were fortunate enough to get to know him, Bull will always be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize the life and legacy of Charles Hutton ``Bull'' Rigdon, Jr. My wife, Vicki, and I extend our deepest prayers and condolences to his wife Helen Hunt Rigdon; children, Karen Rigdon Hughes and Charles William Rigdon; grandchildren Charles William Lamkin, Lauren Ashley Rigdon, Blake William Rigdon and Montana Dodson; sister, Ouida Rigdon Miller; stepson, Michael B. Dodson; and the entire Rigdon family.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, due to attending the funeral of the Honorable Charles Hutton ``Bull'' Rigdon, Jr., Fort Walton Beach City Council, I missed the following rollcall votes: Nos. 554 through 560 on December 10, 2014. If present, I would have voted: rollcall vote No. 554--H. Res. 775, On Agreeing to the Resolution Providing for consideration of S. 2244, the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2014; and for other purposes, ``aye;'' rollcall vote No. 555--S. 1000, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass the Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014, ``aye;'' rollcall No. 556--On Approving the Journal, ``nay;'' rollcall vote No. 557--On Passage of S. 2244--To extend the termination date of the Terrorism Insurance Program established under the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002, and for other purposes, ``aye;'' rollcall vote No. 558--Motion to Suspend the Rules and Concur in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 4681--Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2014 and 2015, ``aye;'' rollcall vote No. 559--On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Concur in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 2719--To require the Transportation Security Administration to implement best practices and improve transparency with regard to technology acquisition programs, and for other purposes, ``aye;'' rollcall vote No. 560--On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Concur in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1204--To amend title 49, United States Code, to direct the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration) to establish an Aviation Security Advisory Committee, and for other purposes, ``aye.''

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 5059) to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide for the conduct of annual evaluations of mental health care and suicide prevention programs of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs, to review the terms or characterization of the discharge or separation of certain individuals from the Armed Forces, to require a pilot program on loan repayment for psychiatrists who agree to serve in the Veterans Health Administration of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I now yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from the Second District of Indiana (Mrs. Walorski), who is a stalwart supporter of veterans in her district and who has a great future ahead in veteran issues.

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from the Sixth District of Illinois (Mr. Roskam), a gentleman who does not serve on the committee with us but who has a very keen interest in veterans affairs issues.

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I would be remiss if I did not say thank you to the gentleman from Maine, Mike Michaud. As the ranking member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, we, as a team, along with the members and the staff, have accomplished much this year, but it has all been done in a bipartisan way. We were able to move large pieces of legislation that will impact, in a positive way, veterans for years to come. We uncovered probably the largest scandal that has ever been uncovered at the Department of Veterans Affairs, and we are now turning that agency in a direction to where it serves the veterans and not itself. This wouldn't have happened without the steady hand of the gentleman from Maine, Mike Michaud, as the ranking member. Again, he is a fine man. He has been a great Representative, and he is a friend that will be missed. I look forward to going to Maine one day and hunting moose with Mike, whom I have pestered for 12 years to get a chance to go up and visit. But we will miss him, and we wish him well. And with that, I want to take a moment to express my condolences and my appreciation to Clay's family, whom I understand are in the Capitol with us today, as well as to all the families of veterans who have lost their lives to suicide. My thoughts and my prayers are with each of them. Once again, I encourage all the Members to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. MILLER of Florida. We have one more speaker before I close.

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from the First District of Michigan (Mr. Benishek), who is the chairman of the Subcommittee on Health.

Mr. MILLER of Florida. I now yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from the great State of Florida (Mr. Jolly), a colleague of mine and a fine member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee.

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on H.R. 5059, as amended.

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I might consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in proud support of H.R. 5059, as amended, the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act. In July, amidst the largest scandal--an accountability scandal--the Department of Veterans Affairs has ever faced, the committee heard testimony from three mothers whose sons had lost their lives to suicide following their service in our military. One of those mothers was Susan Selke, the mother of Clay Hunt. Clay was a Marine Corps combat veteran who served honorably in both Afghanistan and Iraq, where he was wounded in battle. Despite suffering from post-traumatic stress upon his separation, Clay devoted himself to humanitarian work and advocated on behalf of his fellow veterans. Nevertheless, in March of 2011, Clay took his own life at the age of 28. Tragically, Clay was far from alone in his struggle, and his family and friends are far from alone in their heartbreak. On average, 22 of our Nation's heroes commit suicide each day, in spite of significant increases in VA's mental health and suicide prevention budget, staff, and programs over the last several years. What is more, for some groups of veterans, including female veterans and veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, suicide rates are actually getting worse. Mr. Speaker, we must do more to help these veterans. With the passage of H.R. 5059, as amended, which is named in Clay's memory, I think we will. The Clay Hunt SAV Act will help struggling veterans access the supportive services and mental health care they need to, hopefully, save their lives. To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of VA programs and increase awareness of available services, the bill would require an annual third-party evaluation of VA's mental health care and suicide prevention programs, and it would require that VA publish an interactive Web site to serve as the central source of information regarding VA mental health services. To increase VA's capacity to meet the mental health care needs of our veterans, it would establish a pilot program to repay education loans for individuals who have received a degree in psychiatric medicine and who agree to work at VA for at least 2 years. To create a seamless transition from Active Duty to veteran status and increase community support for those in need, it would establish a pilot program to assist veterans during transition and require VA to collaborate with nonprofit mental health organizations in their communities. Importantly, the bill would also extend an additional 1 year of eligibility for VA health care services for certain combat veterans who have not yet enrolled and whose 5-year combat eligibility period recently expired. Congressman Walz from Minnesota introduced the bill, along with me and Congresswoman Duckworth from Illinois. I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to both of them for their service to our Nation in their uniform and in this Congress. I am proud to say that this bill has the support of numerous groups of veteran service organizations, including Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, the American Legion, the Disabled American Veterans, the Military Officers Association of America, and the Wounded Warrior Project. The Clay Hunt SAV Act will not singlehandedly halt the scourge of suicide. The problems the VA health care system faces, and the mental health wounds of war that our veterans face, are far too deep for any single solution to resolve. But it is an important first step, and it is a step that we owe Clay and those like him who returned home from honorable service troubled in mind and in need of help. With that, Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 5059, as amended, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I am privileged to recognize Mr. John Hutchinson upon the occasion of his retirement from Gulf Power Company, a Southern Company, as the Director of Community and Economic Development. For more than two decades, Mr. Hutchinson has served the Northwest Florida community, and I am pleased to honor his achievements. A graduate of Louisiana State University, Mr. Hutchinson held various roles throughout his career in the utility industry, which spanned 32 years, and included Mississippi and Southern Company Services. As part of Gulf Power, he worked tirelessly with local, regional, and state economic development organizations to help grow the company into what it is today. Without question, when one looks at the success of Gulf Power, one does not have to look too far to learn of the impact Mr. Hutchinson has made on the company. Through his dedicated efforts, Mr. Hutchinson helped bolster the company's job creation, strengthen community relationships and support charitable and civic programs. As Director of Corporate Communications for 22 years, Mr. Hutchinson ensured that Gulf Power stayed connected with the community that it served. His unwavering commitment was particularly important during some of the most challenging times, including Hurricane Ivan, which devastated the Gulf Coast, and, in 2009, he was recognized for his success when he was named the Communicator of the Year by the Florida Public Relations Association. In addition to serving the needs of Gulf Power's consumers, Mr. Hutchinson helped promote economic growth and opportunity for Northwest Floridians through his work with Enterprise Florida and Florida's Great Northwest, where he worked with economic development organizations to help bring new businesses to the area and help local businesses expand and hire new employees. In addition to his myriad professional accomplishments, Mr. Hutchinson also serves an integral role in the success of the Gulf Coast's civic community through his leadership and volunteer work. Mr. Hutchinson currently serves as the Community Economic Development Association President, Chairman of the University of West Florida Foundation, and he is a member of the executive committee for Florida's Great Northwest. As a result of his work in the community, Mr. Hutchinson has achieved numerous awards, including the Pensacola Area Chamber of Commerce's Community Leader of the Year, as well as its Volunteer of the Year. On behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Mr. John Hutchinson for his achievements and service to the Gulf Coast community. My wife Vicki and I wish John and his wife Nancy all the best in his retirement.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. I thank the gentleman from North Carolina for yielding the time. I also want to thank Chairman Goodlatte and the ranking member for speeding this through the Judiciary Committee. I rise in support of this piece of legislation, which is a simple bill, Mr. Speaker, designated to update the congressional charter of the VFW to reflect today's active duty and veteran population by changing, as we have already heard, the word ``men'' to ``veterans'' and the word ``widows'' to ``surviving spouses.'' Women veterans have in fact been eligible as members of the VFW since 1978, but like many things, it sometimes takes a little time for paperwork to catch up. I think VFW Commander in Chief John Stroud said it best in describing why they have requested this change: We are not changing our congressional charter because it's politically correct. We're changing it because being an eligible veteran is what's important to our great organization, not one's gender, and changing ``widows'' to ``surviving spouses'' is more representative of today's military. Women do in fact comprise over 16 percent of today's military force, and obviously, that means that they are making up an ever-increasing share of America's 22 million veterans as they return to civilian life. I ask my colleagues to join Chairman Goodlatte, Ms. Lofgren, and myself in supporting H.R. 5441.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to commemorate the life and dedicated service of Crestview, Florida's beloved Mr. Samuel A. Allen, who passed away on November 5, 2014. Mr. Allen was a veteran, inspirational teacher, committed public servant, and loving family man. The entire Northwest Florida community mourns the loss of a great and compassionate individual. Mr. Allen was born on November 4, 1921, in Tallahassee, Florida, to the late Samuel and Aljonia Allen, who instilled in him the teachings of Jesus Christ at an early age. As a young adult, Mr. Allen honorably served our Nation as a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1943 to 1946 before ``discharging from the military and [falling] head over heels in love with a beautiful girl in Texas,'' as he would say. He married his beautiful girl, the late Caroline J. Barker, on June 5, 1946. Mr. Allen enjoyed a long and successful career as an educator. He taught in the Okaloosa County School district for 34 years at Charles Drew High School in Baker, Florida, and at Carver Hill High School and Richbourg Junior High School in Crestview, Florida, until he retired in 1983. Mr. Allen's pride in his teaching was extremely evident by the impression he left on others. In addition to his exceptional work in the classroom, Mr. Allen was also a leader in Northwest Florida's civic society, and on November 4, 1968, Mr. Allen became the first African- American elected as a councilman to the Crestview City Council, on which he served for 11 years. In addition to his successful career and selfless leadership in the Northwest Florida community, Mr. Allen was also a member of Lebanon Baptist Church of Baker, a member of their Trustee Board, a Sunday School Superintendent-Teacher and Student, the transportation chairperson, and was active in the Progressive District of West Florida Association. From his humble beginnings, Mr. Allen achieved tremendous success throughout his lifetime, and his commitment to service never wavered. To some, Mr. Allen will be remembered as a man of integrity who devoted his life to public service and the shaping of the youth of Northwest Florida. To his family and friends, he will always be remembered for his loving and caring demeanor, and his dedication to his family. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is a privilege for me to honor the life and dedicated service of Mr. Samuel A. Allen. My wife Vicki and I extend our prayers and sincere condolences to his son, Samuel Jr; his daughter, Aljonia; five grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson; and the entire Allen family.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the life and dedicated service of Northwest Florida's beloved George H. Whitehurst who passed away on October 19, 2014. Throughout his long and distinguished career as a mayor and businessman, Mr. Whitehurst served as a mentor and an inspiration to countless individuals. All those who have been blessed by his presence and leadership mourn the loss of a great man and esteemed public servant. Mayor Whitehurst was born in Greenwood, Florida on July 28, 1926 to George and Ethel Whitehurst. Upon graduating from Greenwood High School, he enrolled in Florida State University where he was a part of the Flying High Circus and performed on the flying trapeze. From 1943 to 1945, Mayor Whitehurst honorably served our Nation in the United States Navy as a hospital corpsman, as well as an operating room technician. Following his military service, he continued his education and graduated from the Indiana College of Mortuary Science in 1950. In 1955, Mayor Whitehurst settled in Crestview, Florida, where he and his wife, Annelle, opened the Whitehurst Funeral Home. In 1961, he entered the public service arena where he would use his great business sense to lead the Crestview community as mayor for more than two decades. As Crestview's longest serving mayor, Mayor Whitehurst tirelessly worked to better the city he loved. He successfully advocated for increased public safety and economic development, which resulted in the establishment of two police substations and the Crestview Public Safety Building, development of an emergency transportation corridor, restoration of a cemetery, construction of the Okaloosa County Veterans Memorial, conversion of the former Yellow River Railroad bed into Industrial Drive, and a revitalized downtown, among other efforts. Mayor Whitehurst was a man of conviction and was widely respected by those who knew him. The community's immense appreciation was well evidenced when he received the Mae Reatha Coleman Citizen of the Year Award in August 2013 for his outstanding service. Mayor Whitehurst, fondly known as ``Mr. Crestview,'' will be remembered for his exceptional leadership and contributions to the Gulf Coast community, and his legacy will not be forgotten. To his family and friends, he will be remembered most as a loving father, grandfather, and great- grandfather. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am privileged to honor the life of George H. Whitehurst. My wife Vicki joins me in extending our sincerest condolences and prayers to his wife, Annelle; daughters, Angela and Ann; grandchildren; great- grandchildren; and the entire Whitehurst family. He will truly be missed.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I am privileged to recognize Ms. Deborah ``Dee'' Copeland upon the occasion of her retirement. For 42 years, Ms. Copeland has dedicated her career to educating our Nation's youth and serving the Gulf Coast community. A graduate of Belhaven College in Jackson, Mississippi, Ms. Copeland began teaching at Mowat Junior High School in Panama City, Florida, in 1972. Eight years later, she joined the faculty at King Middle School in Milton, Florida, where she has established herself as a leader amongst the great educators in Northwest Florida and where she teaches today, chairs the History/Civics Department, and is the Student Government Association Advisor. For over four decades, Ms. Copeland has inspired the minds of our Nation's youth, and her innovative techniques have brought unique learning opportunities and experiences to her students. Whether organizing an annual visit to Tallahassee, the state capital, to engage her students in the legislative process, sponsoring an annual Veteran's Day program to honor area veterans and first responders and educate her students on the contributions and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform, or building pyramids and volcanoes, Ms. Copeland's passion for teaching is demonstrated through each of her tireless efforts in making learning enjoyable and bringing it to life. Her dedication and service, however, is not confined to her classroom at King Middle School. Ms. Copeland teaches hospital homebound students in the evenings as well as Sunday School at her local church. She has also organized and sponsored countless events, including the Ronald McDonald House Easter Basket to benefit Sacred Heart Children's Hospital in Pensacola, Florida; a Thanksgiving food basket drive to provide for the needy; a blanket giveaway for our area's homeless and to support low-income families; and Meet-the- Candidate breakfasts during election years to afford an additional opportunity to her students and the local community to participate in the democratic process. Her involvement in the classroom and throughout the community has not gone unnoticed. As a result of her commitment to excellence and service, Ms. Copeland has received myriad awards, including the Alpha Delta Kappa Educator of the Year in 2012, the Governor's Award in Education, the International Award ISTE Ana Mackay-Gutierrez Award for Community Giving, the Santa Rosa County Volunteer of the Year in 2006, the Veteran's State Teacher of the Year in 2007, and the King Middle School ``Teacher of the Year'' award three times throughout her tenure. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Ms. Deborah ``Dee'' Copeland for her lifetime of achievements and dedication to the Northwest Florida community. My wife Vicki joins me in wishing Ms. Copeland all the best for continued success in her well-earned retirement and thanking her for her service.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a member of the Greatest Generation, Colonel Justin McCarthy ``Mac'' Miller, United States Marine Corps Retired, upon the occasion of his 100th birthday. Colonel Miller has dedicated his life to service to his community, his family, and to our great Nation, and I am humbled to honor him and his remarkable achievements today. Born in 1914, aviation has always been a stronghold in Colonel Miller's life. As a young man, he admired the pursuit pilots, or fighter pilots, of the Allied Forces. From his early encounters with comic books and magazine covers depicting the Lafayette Escadrille, to his application to the United States Naval Academy, Colonel Miller knew his life's destiny was to become a fighter pilot. While at the Naval Academy, he resigned as a midshipmen and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps as an aviation cadet in 1940 before receiving his wings in 1941. His first assignment was as an Instructor Pilot in Pensacola, Florida, where he would return later in life. He then was assigned to Staff and Command school at United States Marine Corps Base, Quantico. Though these two assignments were perhaps not the most ideal for someone just pinning on wings eager to enter theater, shortly after the beginning of World War II, not only would Colonel Miller be presented with the opportunity to fly in combat, but he would be assigned as the Commanding Officer and take on the role of Executive Officer of the newly-established fighter squadron VMF 217, training in the F4F Wildcat. In 1943, the squadron embarked on the USS BARNES (CVE- 20) deployed to the South Pacific, transitioned aircraft to the F4U Corsair, and flew combat missions over the Solomon Islands. In 1944, the squad embarked on the USS SANTEE (CVE-29) and deployed to Guam, where they commenced strikes against the island of Rota. In October 1944, Colonel Miller took Command of VMF-321 until 1945, when the squadron returned to the United States. Throughout his tour in the Pacific Theater, Colonel Miller commanded two fighter squadrons. He then joined the Reserves in 1948 after the end of the war, where he continued his career in flight while also proving to be a successful businessman, as evidenced by his ownership of many radio stations, including WCOA Pensacola. Amongst his vast array of accolades and contributions lay a century's worth of anecdotes, including being taught to fly his favorite aircraft, the F4U Corsair, by the legendary Charles Lindbergh himself. Amazingly, throughout his remarkable career, Colonel Miller flew 140 combat missions in 31 different aircraft, and received three Distinguished Flying Crosses, 11 Air Medals, and four Battle Stars, amidst an interminable list of decorations, honors, and awards for his distinguished service in World War II. Mr. Speaker, Colonel Justin McCarthy ``Mac'' Miller is a valued member of our community and national history. He is a true ``American Patriot'' and an inspiration to all who have had the privilege of being a part of his exemplary life. My wife Vicki and I wish him a happy birthday as he turns 100 years young, and we wish him and his entire family all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Collinsworth family of Westville, Florida, for being selected as the 2014 Walton County Farm Family of the Year. The Collinsworth family traces its Northwest Florida roots to 1894, where their ancestors settled near the small community of Gaskin, Florida. Today, about 25 miles southeast of Gaskin, the Collinsworth family farm, owned by Bobby and Hazel Collinsworth, comprises three generations of farmers, including their son-in-law and grandchildren of the Currid family, each of whom play an integral role in the family's farming operations. Since 1924, Bobby and Hazel Collinsworth have worked tirelessly to cultivate their farm to the successful operation it is today. What originally produced corn, soybeans, cotton, peanuts and consisted of hogs and cattle has flourished into 320 acres owned and 240 acres leased to raise 129 crossbred cows and 16 registered Simmental cows. Mr. Speaker, our great Nation was built by farmers and their families. The Walton County Farm Family of the Year Award is a true reflection of the Collinsworth's family dedication to family and farming and their shared passion for ranching and caring for the land for future generations to come. On behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to offer my congratulations to the Collinsworth family for being outstanding in their field. My wife Vicki and I extend our best wishes for their continued success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Ms. Sarah Mason as the Hurlburt Air Force Association Chapter 398 Elementary School and the esteemed Overall Teacher of the Year for 2014. Ms. Mason was among three educators selected throughout Northwest Florida for her inspiring efforts to bolster her students' interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education, and I am pleased to honor her outstanding achievements. Though Ms. Mason has been teaching for ten years, she was keenly aware of her passion for putting others before herself long before she stepped foot in a classroom as an educator. Her teaching aspirations took flight in high school, when she joined the Gold Seal Quality Care program her junior year, which afforded her the opportunity to inspire the young minds of local elementary school students. Ms. Mason built on this positive experience and pursued a Bachelor of Education at the University of West Florida. She has spent the last seven years of her decade of teaching at Blue Angels Elementary School in Pensacola, Florida. Ms. Mason credits her family for igniting in her curiosity and passion for science, which indirectly led to the chemical reaction rocket experiments in her backyard as a child that have helped her cultivate tomorrow's scientists and engineers as an adult. She brings science to life in her classroom through hands-on activities, like the pegboard ``engineering wall'' that allows students to engineer their own creations using pegs, rubber bands, and pipes and the building and analyzing of marble roller coasters to understand mathematical, scientific and engineering concepts through real world applications. Ms. Mason also welcomes the latest technology in her classroom, including iPads loaded with STEM applications that stimulate student interest in outer space through the engineering of models of irregular galaxies and discovering the complex motions of the planets of our solar system, as well as constructing motors. In addition, Northwest Florida is home to some of the world's finest engineers, and Ms. Mason has partnered with Gulf Power Company making it possible for her students to engage its engineers in the developing of their classroom robots. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate Ms. Mason on this well- earned achievement of Hurlburt Air Force Association Chapter 398 Elementary School and the esteemed Overall Teacher of the Year for 2014 and thank her for her commitment to service and dedication to the Northwest Florida community. My wife Vicki joins me in wishing Ms. Mason all the best for continued success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the West Florida Regional Planning Council and recognize its significant impact and contributions to Northwest Florida. The West Florida Regional Planning Council was established in 1964 as the Pensacola-Escambia County Regional Council when the need of transportation planning and coordination was recognized. As the third regional planning council to have been formed in the State of Florida, it has since grown to also include Bay, Holmes, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton, and Washington Counties and their municipalities. In addition to transportation planning, the Council today provides a forum to engage its members in regional planning, comprehensive economic development strategic planning, emergency preparedness planning, environmental planning and education, and intergovernmental review. Furthermore, the Council provides assistance in grant-writing, project management, technical planning, and data analysis. Due to its collaborative nature, the Council naturally recognizes the importance of an all-of-community and region approach. To that end, it welcomes and encourages citizens throughout the Gulf Coast to become engaged in the process to actively address and solve problems of the growing region. Over the past five decades, the Council has dedicated their efforts to preserving and enhancing the quality of life in Northwest Florida. Their contributions have helped ensure that the Emerald Coast remains a top tourist destination and a place where thousands live like millions wish they could. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it gives me great pleasure to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the West Florida Regional Planning Council. My wife Vicki joins me in thanking all of its members for their devotion to service and wishing them and the Council all the best for continued success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Ms. Susan Cundiff as the Hurlburt Air Force Association (AFA) Chapter 398 High School Teacher of the Year for 2014. Ms. Cundiff was among three educators selected throughout Northwest Florida for her inspiring efforts to bolster her students' interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education, and I am pleased to honor her outstanding achievements. Ms. Cundiff joins the ranks of teachers previously bestowed this honor for her more than three decades of service as an educator at Gulf Breeze High School and her service to the Gulf Coast community. Since 1983, she has witnessed and has played an integral role in the growth of some of the finest minds of our Nation's youth. Through her passion for teaching, which has helped spark her students' sense of wonder and interest in the world around them, Ms. Cundiff's contributions to producing the next generation of active participants in our society, and perhaps future scientists and engineers, cannot be overstated. Her tireless efforts and innovative techniques have brought unique hands-on learning opportunities into the classroom. As a result of this practical learning, her students gain a working knowledge of wireless computer integration and electronics construction. Today, her students can also be found researching, building, wiring, programming and testing robots on a specified task. Her dedication to the community, however, is not confined within the classroom. Ms. Cundiff is active in Hurlburt AFA Chapter's aerospace educational programs, devoting her time and energy to assist in planning and organizing events. She also utilizes her considerable experience and success in the classroom to assist in the professional development of other educators throughout the area at the Chapter's Teacher Workshops, sharing best practices and stimulating lessons that can be brought back to their respective classrooms. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate Ms. Cundiff on this well- earned achievement of Hurlburt Air Force Association Chapter 398 High School Teacher of the Year for 2014 and thank her for her commitment to service and dedication to the Northwest Florida community. My wife Vicki joins me in wishing Ms. Cundiff all the best for continued success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Jay Peanut Festival and recognize its founders, Gene and Brenda Gabbert and the community of Jay, Florida. The Town of Jay, situated in northern Santa Rosa County, Florida near the Florida/Alabama line, is home to over 500 residents and the annual Jay Peanut Festival. A quarter of a century ago, Gene and Brenda Gabbert founded the festival in honor of their daughter Melissa, who had lost her battle with cancer at the young age of 19. Melissa found great joy in frequenting agricultural festivals throughout the Gulf Coast and the special sense of community that festivals often bring to life. After her passing, the Gabberts started the Jay Peanut Festival to keep Melissa's memory alive and bring together the entire Northwest Florida community in celebration of the area's deep agricultural history. In the 25 years since, the festival has flourished. While the pig chase has remained a highlight, what began in 1990 as a one-day event with 30-40 vendors is now a two-day event with 230 booths, live entertainment, carnival rides, 5k run, and a parade. The staple of the festival--the peanut--may attract the tens of thousands of visitors from all over; however, to the Town of Jay, the festival is much more than that. It's also a celebration of community, that Melissa was so fond of, and its members who have helped carry on this proud tradition. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to commemorate the 25-year history of the Jay Peanut Festival. My wife Vicki joins me in wishing the Gabberts and the Town of Jay all the best for continued success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize retired Navy Captain Robert ``Bob'' Rasmussen for his lifetime of honorable service and dedication to our great Nation on the occasion of his retirement as Director of the National Naval Aviation Museum aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola. A native of Sacramento, California, Bob was born on May 26, 1930, and entered the Navy through the Naval Aviation Cadet Program in 1951. He excelled in flight training school at NAS Whiting Field and NAS Pensacola, both located in Northwest Florida, and was assigned to a fighter squadron in San Diego, California, where he deployed on multiple occasions to the Western Pacific aboard the carrier USS Philippine Sea. In 1956, he was selected to join the elite Navy Flight Demonstration Team, the Blue Angels. For three years, he awed and inspired millions of Americans flying flight demonstrations as the right wing pilot and number four slot. Bob continued his tours at sea in Fighter Squadron 33 aboard the USS Intrepid and as a Flag Lieutenant to Deputy Commander Atlantic Fleet before completing the Navy Postgraduate School program in Monterey, California. In 1966, he was assigned to Fighter Squadron 111 aboard the USS Oriskany, where he completed two combat tours in Vietnam and served as first Executive Officer and then Commanding Officer. Before returning to combat in Vietnam as the prospective Air Wing SIXTEEN Commander, subsequently selected for Captain and assigned as Chief of Staff and Operations Officer of Carrier Division SEVEN and then as Commanding Officer of the ammunition ship USS Mount Hood, Bob completed a tour in our Nation's capital region. After the end of the war, he served as Commanding Officer of Roosevelt Roads Naval Station in Puerto Rico before later returning to Washington to command the Aviation Officer Distribution Division of the Bureau of Naval Personnel. Following three decades of service as one of the finest Naval aviators in history, recording 650 carrier traps and with more than 5,000 flight hours logged, as many servicemembers do, Bob found his way back to Pensacola where he completed his Naval service in 1983 as the Commanding Officer of the Naval Aviation Schools Command. Throughout his prestigious career, he received many awards, including three Legions of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Bronze Star. Bob's love for aviation, however, remained, and his artistic prowess proved too strong, as he went on to serve as the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation Director of Development for four years before becoming Director of the National Naval Aviation Museum in 1987. During his tenure there, he produced hundreds of naval aviation watercolor pieces and several bronze sculpture works for the Museum, the Foundation, and several other historic venues, earning him the R.G. Smith Award for excellence in naval aviation art. As a direct result of his efforts, the Naval Aviation Museum more than tripled in size and remains the most successful Naval museum in the country as close to one million people visit and enjoy the museum each year. My wife Vicki and I join Northwest Florida--and a grateful Nation-- in thanking Captain Bob Rasmussen for his more than six decades of admirable military and public service and wish him all the best as he takes off in his retirement alongside his wife, Phyllis; their children, Kathryn and Eric; and grandchildren, Christopher, Ashton, Emily Page, Madison, Avery, and Jack.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Ms. Penny Moore as the Hurlburt Air Force Association Chapter 398 Middle School Teacher of the Year for 2014. Ms. Moore was among three educators selected throughout Northwest Florida for her inspiring efforts to bolster her students' interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education, and I am pleased to honor her outstanding achievements. The never-ending yearning to help others is the foundation on which Ms. Moore has built her success as an educator. Prior to moving to Northwest Florida, Ms. Moore worked as a special needs teacher inspiring students at Churchill Academy in Montgomery, Alabama. She has since spent the last decade of her professional career teaching at Avalon Middle School in Milton, Florida. Her willingness and constant ability to adapt to the ever-changing needs of her students is a challenge that Ms. Moore embraces and is furthermore evidence of her passion to mold and enlighten the minds of our Nation's youth. While she holds high expectations for her students and works diligently with them to master theory and practice, she also inspires and motivates her students to rise to the occasion and put theory into practice. Under her leadership and guidance as the school's science, technology, engineering, activity and math (STEAM) team, nearly 100 students from all grade levels have competed in boosting engineering, science, and technology (BEST) robotics competitions and the Science Olympiad and have represented Northwest Florida at state and national competitions. Furthermore, Ms. Moore recognizes the importance for her students to experience science and technology outside of the classroom and affords them the unique opportunity to visit the Flight Adventure Deck and the National Naval Aviation Museum aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola, where students complete preparatory lessons and apply their knowledge of what they have learned through hands-on activities at the Adventure Deck. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate Ms. Moore on this well- earned achievement of Hurlburt Air Force Association Chapter 398 Middle School Teacher of the Year for 2014 and thank her for her commitment to service and dedication to the Northwest Florida community. My wife Vicki joins me in wishing Ms. Moore all the best for continued success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the Sixtieth Wedding Anniversary of John and Christina Broxson of Gulf Breeze, Florida. I am proud to honor the Broxsons and congratulate them on this remarkable milestone. John and Christina met in 1953 at Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) in Waxahachie, Texas where John earned his Bachelor of Science degree in May 1954. They were married the following month on June 4, 1954 and spent the early years of their married life in pastoral ministry as well as missionary evangelism. In 1959, John was appointed by Florida Governor Leroy Collins to complete his father's term as Santa Rosa County Sheriff, and in 1962, John was elected to the Florida House of Representatives. John and Christina moved to Gulf Breeze, Florida, with their family in 1964 to begin their business, John Broxson and Associates, Inc., an Independent Insurance agency and real-estate brokerage company. Committed to public service, John also served in other various roles to include, Florida State Senator and Santa Rosa County Commissioner. Both John and Christina have lived a life of service to God and country, while raising five children: Sylvia, Bob, Cheryl, Bart, and Angela. John and Christina are loving and devoted parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is my pleasure to join John and Christina Broxson; their children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and the entire Broxson family in celebration of their sixty years of marriage. My wife, Vicki, and I wish John and Christina many more years of happiness and all of God's blessings.