Jeff Miller

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to join with my colleagues in commending the continued dedication, selfless service, and commitment of members of the Armed Forces and their families during the Globar War on Terrorism and in defense of the United States. It's difficult to comprehend that nearly 225,000 members of the National Guard and Reserve components have been mobilized for active duty since the start of the Global War on Terrorism. Of that number, more than 166,000 remain on active duty, with thousands facing a second year of active duty away from families and civilian employment. Additionally, more than 200,000 active-duty personnel have already been deployed to the Persian Gulf theater and thousands of Reservists and National Guard members have been alerted for mobilization or are deploying for a possible war with Iraq. These men and women are on the front lines of our war on terrorism and anywhere else we have asked them to be. One place they are not, is home. They are missing baseball games, soccer matches and all the other creature comforts we tend to take for granted. A year is a long time to be away from home and a long time to be wondering what is next. For many of our service members, that year grew by an additional three months, then six months and some are now standing at 2-year deployments. They do so with loyalty and dedication. Mr. Chairman, during the January work period, I had the opportunity to visit our men and women in uniform stationed in Germany, Italy and France. I was struck by their professionalism and commitment to their assigned duties. They are proud to serve. Simple as that. Of course they miss their families, they miss their home and some miss decent television programming. But they are proud to serve and know they will be home soon enough. We can never say thanks enough to these men and women but I appreciate the opportunity to thanks today.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of this nation's most dedicated citizens, Michael J. Quirk. At a time when the President is encouraging all Americans to serve their country in a volunteer capacity, there is no greater example than that of Mr. Quirk. For over 30 years he fought for this nation in the United States military and for the past 22 years, he has continued his dedication to his nation be serving as a volunteer in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. On March 8th, 2003, the Coast Guard Auxiliary will honor over a half of a decade of service as Mr. Quirk begins his retirement. During World War II, Mr. Quirk was a member of the famed 56th Fighter Group of the U.S. Army Air Corps and achieved the status of Double-Ace. Shot down on his 100th mission, he was subsequently held as a prisoner- of-war at Stalag Luft I, Barth, Germany until April, 1945. For his commitment and bravery in the Second World War, he received the Silver Star and was additionally awarded the Purple Heart for wounds he suffered when his plane was shot down. Mr. Quirk returned to the U.S. in 1945 where he entered Catholic University and pursued his degree. In 1947 though, the call to serve his nation yearned in his heart and he returned to military, joining the U.S. Air Force where he would remain for the next 30 years. Over the course of his career in the U.S. Air Force, he flew with the 4th Fighter Group flying F-80 Shooting Stars, at Langley Air Force Base flying F-86 Sabre jets, in La Paz, Bolivia training Bolivian pilots to fly the P-47, and served at the Central Air Defense Force from 1951-52. In addition, he was the Commander of the 87th Fighter Interceptor Squadron and flew with the 453rd Tactical Fighter Training Wing. After over 30 years of military service, Mr. Quirk retired from the U.S. Air Force as a Colonel in 1977. Shortly thereafter, Mr. Quirk and his wife Kit joined the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary as members of the voluntary division of the U.S. Coast Guard. Rising through the ranks, he was named Commodore of the 8th Coastal Region in 1990. Mr. Speaker, I would like to offer my sincere and heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Michael J. Quirk on his retirement from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. His contributions to the United States of America are significant and impressive and I consider him a patriot of the highest order. On this such occasion, we honor one of America's greatest citizens; a committed soldier and dedicated volunteer.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker I rise today to honor one of Florida's most cherished and dedicated citizens, whom over the course of her life has given an immeasurable amount of time and effort to the community that she has worked so hard to build. On February 15, 2003, the city of Laurel Hill will honor Ms. Ola Richbourg as its Citizen of the Year for 2003, recognizing her long and distinguished period of service to the Laurel Hill community. Born on March 27, 1921 in the same wood frame home where she lives today, Ola is described by her peers as a lady that will go out of her way to help others. The daughter of John Franklin and Katie Haynes Richbourg, she learned the value of working for her community at an early age from her father who served three terms as a state representative, beginning in 1907. In 1977, she was appointed to the position of County Clerk of Laurel Hill and was subsequently elected, in 1979, to the City Council, where she remained for thirteen years. Even more remarkable is her history of service to her country. Upon graduating from Laurel Hill High School in 1939 and attending a government-run school in Ocala where she learned shorthand and typing, Ola joined the United States Marine Corps on November 5, 1943, during the height of World War II. It was at a movie that Ola saw a commercial asking women to join the military in order to free up men to fight overseas. To Ola, it was an easy decision. She was simply doing whatever she could to help her country in a time of crisis, but her decision would have a profound impact on the future of our nation. It was her, and many other women's, choice to fight for her country, that would open up all kinds of new doors for women. Following World War II, Ola returned to Laurel Hill, believing she was done with military service. However, shortly thereafter, the Korean War broke out and she reenlisted without hesitation. Dedicating herself to the Marine Corps for nearly two decades, Ola retired as a Tech Sergeant in 1966. Her strength and determination led her to fight for her country in one of the most important world conflicts of the 20th century and to personally win a battle against cancer of the larynx. Her smile is contagious and her heart as big as they come. She remembers how a nickel could once buy a big RC Cola and lots of candy and that fateful day when she learned where Pearl Harbor was, changing her life forever. It his her kindness and humility that have allowed her to do so much for so many during her life and I know she will continue to do so in the years to come. Mr. Speaker, I would like to offer my sincere and heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Ola Richbourg as she receives this special recognition as Laurel Hill's Citizen of the Year. Her contributions to the citizens of Laurel Hill and the United States of America are significant and impressive and I consider her a patriot of the highest order. On this such occasion, we honor a great soldier, civil servant, and neighbor; one of America's greatest citizens.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 4, the Personal Responsibility, Work and Family Promotion Act of 2003; and I support this important measure because it will remodel and improve the welfare reform legislation that has already helped millions of people off the welfare rolls, improved child well-being, lifted millions more out of poverty, and boosted personal incomes and improved the quality of life. Take, for example, a family from my district in northwest Florida. James and his wife and their 2-year-old son had to relocate to DeFuniak Springs at a time when there were few job prospects in that community. In November of 2001, James and his family had to apply for cash assistance to meet their needs. The couple agreed that James would participate in the Welfare Transition Program; and during the 2-week employment preparation program, he learned that he had an aptitude for the medical field. Upon completion, he entered a community service work site at the Council on Aging; and during this service assignment, he demonstrated not only an aptitude but also the initiative to seek training and further experience. He qualified for financial assistance for training through the Workforce Innovation Act and completed training as a CNA through Walton County Vocational Tech. Through his eagerness to learn, James was able to secure a paid position with the Council on Aging; and last February, he was hired to a full-time position with benefits and is no longer receiving cash assistance. Mr. Chairman, this is just one of the many examples of how hard work, personal ambition, and a system that puts faith in the individual can be successful. Even with accomplishments like this, we can do a whole lot more. Our welfare system is not perfect, and we must improve it by offering reforms that promote a life of self-sufficiency, dignity and hope. I hope that my colleagues support these important principles and will support H.R. 4.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to acknowledge Pastor Jim Schetler, who blessed us with our opening prayer today. Pastor Schetler comes to us from Pensacola Christian College Campus Church, a ministry involving over 1,500 members of the community, and over 4,000 Pensacola Christian College students when the school is in session. His personal journey with God and the Holy Spirit has given him a dynamic and vibrant ability to make his preachings come alive to Christians of all ages. As a result, his Sunday morning services are now aired by television stations nationwide. Originally from Traverse City, Michigan, Pastor Schetler graduated from Pensacola Christian College in 1979 and has remained in its service ever since. He met his wife, Marilee, while he was a student at PCC, and has been blessed with three wonderful sons: Benjamin, Luke, and Drew. Upon graduation, he spent the following 2 years traveling as a PCC representative. Afterwards, he and Marilee spent 6 months living in a kibbutz in Israel with the Baptists for Israel Institute. He then spent the next 7 years as a youth pastor of Campus Church until he became the pastor of Campus Church in 1988. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my friend, Pastor Jim Schetler, for joining us on the House floor today.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of Florida's most cherished and dedicated civil servants, Tom Connell. Tom will be leaving our office at the end of the month to begin his much- deserved retirement and I would like to express my sincere gratitude for all he has given and wish him well in his future endeavors. For the past 5 years Tom has worked as the Veterans' and Military Affairs caseworker for Florida's First Congressional District. He is the ultimate professional, the greatest of friends, and one of the most valuable members of our organization. Over 100,000 veterans and 18,000 active duty military personnel reside in the district I represent, giving Mr. Connell the heaviest case-load of all our caseworkers. He continuously brings unique and valuable insight into the primary issues faced in the office, drawing from over 30 years of active duty in the U.S. Navy. Entering the service in 1965, he sailed beneath the open seas as a submariner, serving as Chief of the Boat on three different submarines. For the last 5\1/2\ years of his duty, Mr. Connell was appointed Fleet Master Chief of CNET, all the while learning and developing the tools he would need to truly become the district's expert on veteran's affairs and military issues. Kindly referred to as ``Father Tom'' around the office, he has infinite patience when dealing with the more challenging casework. Regardless, he listens and genuinely tries to resolve their issues as best he can. The phone on his desk never seems to stop ringing and walk-ins have become a part of his daily routine. A gifted public speaker, Mr. Connell has been an outstanding representative at various veterans rallies and numerous events. Mr. Connell joined the office with considerable experience as a caseworker and was instrumental in getting the office up and running in very short order. A talented and strong leader, Mr. Connell continuously takes the time to train and advise other members of the staff in an effort to make our office the best it can be in representing the people of Northwest Florida. Mr. Speaker, at the end of the month I will lose a great member of my team. Not a day goes by where Tom's tremendous sense of humor does not make us laugh and we will miss his unique capability of never letting us forget that we work for the greatest government in the world. Respected and admired by us all, I wish Tom nothing but the best as he embarks on his well-earned retirement with his beautiful wife Billie. He will be truly missed. Tom Connell, you are and always will be a reason for our success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I move that the message of the President be referred to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union and ordered printed.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the residents of Jay, Florida. On the 30th of November, Jay will celebrate its centennial anniversary. Named after its first postmaster, Mr. J.T. Nowling, this small, Northwest Florida town near the Florida/Alabama border was established one hundred years ago primarily as a farming community. Even today, many residents of this Santa Rosa County community follow in their ancestors' agrarian footsteps. In 1940, a small group of farmers embarked on a venture to create a livestock market in the area. Sales brought revenues of up to $1 million by 1950 and the industry continues to thrive today. Jay boasts about their peanut buying and warehouse facility as well as Florida's only two cotton gins, making this one of Florida's finest and most progressive agricultural towns. In the early 1970's, the discovery of oil changed the life of this small community. The Jay oil field has approximately 67 oil wells that have provided profits of more than $400 million. The revenues generated from Jay's entrepreneurial spirit have funded a new city hall, fire department and recreation complex. In spite of its brisk development, Jay remains steadfast in its roots, distinctive in its identity, and carries on all that America cherishes about its small towns. Much like my nearby hometown of Chumuckla, these 700 residents live in a place where life centers on church, work and family. It is a place where the people are loving, friendly and neighbors help neighbors in times of need. On behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to congratulate the people of Jay, Florida on their centennial and wish them the best as they continue to move and prosper through the 21st century.s

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise reluctantly today on the Conference Committee report for the Fiscal Year 2003 Defense Authorization. The House of Representatives sent to the Conference concurrent receipt provisions that were a solution to the problem of the nearly 15 million veterans and their families in this Nation. Last night, after 40 minutes of debate, the House adopted a version of the report that will aid merely 33,500 of our military retirees who suffer from a combat-related disability. While I appreciate Chairman Hunter's efforts to keep some language in the conference report, I am left to wonder: what have we done for the other 14,966,500 servicemen and women who have stood behind this great Nation? We had the support and votes of over 400 Members of this House and funding in this year's budget to solve this seemingly unsolvable problem. When are we going to put our money where our mouths are? Adding insult to injury, the concurrent receipt provisions are confusing and complicated. Deserving or not, approved or not, claimants will innundate the Department of Defense, causing further delays and postponements in an already backlogged system. We may very well end up losing more Federal dollars in a drawn-out claims process than will reach our retirees in payments due to these vague eligibility provisions. I have the greatest respect for Bob Stump, for whom this legislation is appropriately named. he has been a tireless advocate for America's Uniformed Services, and an invaluable mentor to me. And while this is a first step on the road to improved compensation for our veterans, I was unable to sign this conference report. We have just sent a message to the men and women that defend our freedoms that I cannot support. That message is this: 20 years or more of honorable military service is enough to warrant receipt of military retirement pay only if you are injured in combat. Mr. Speaker, we must pledge now to provide for the welfare of veterans who have contributed in every capacity to the defense of our Nation. The remainder of this legislation is a cumulative statement on how this Congress views its armed forces. Our vote sends a clear message to our men and women in uniform that we support your efforts and appreciate your sacrifice to defend this great Nation. Of the total $355.1 billion, $93.6 billion ($11.5 billion over fiscal year 2002) supports the budget request for 1.4 million active duty and 864,558 guard and reserve personnel; it fully funds the pay raise of 4.1 percent and adds $110 million over the budget for enhanced force structure for B-52 squadrons, and Guard and Reserve full time support personnel. The Navy, of particular interest to Northwest Florida, will receive $3.2 billion for 46 Navy F/A-18 E/F fighters, including an additional $120 million over the budget request for 2 additional aircraft. The appropriation will also provide $4.0 billion for 23 F-22 fighters and $3.5 billion for continued development of the multi-service Joint Strike Fighter. Defense health programs are funded at $14.8 billion with $7.7 billion going towards Tricare for Life, post-65 military retirement medical care. Additionally, I am happy to see $26 million for the Joint Primary Aircraft Training System or JPATS. JPATS brings Naval aviation training into the 21st century by providing student aviators with glass cockpits and ejection seats, a more realistic training, for a more realistic age of war fighting. Mr. Speaker, this bill is progressive, reflective of Congress and goes a long way in supporting our men and women in uniform.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of Pensacola's most cherished and dedicated citizens, whom over the course of his life has given an immeasurable amount of time and effort to the community that he has worked so hard to build. He has given nearly 1,000 speeches, written over 75 books, and taught over 500 lessons and classes tracing Northwest Florida history. A prolific writer and local historian, John H. Appleyard has dedicated his life to the Pensacola community and has become one of Pensacola's greatest assets. Actively involved in the Pensacola community for the past half- century, Mr. Appleyard committed himself to the improvement of Northwest Florida. He served as president of the Pensacola Historical Society, the Downtown Rotary Club, and the PJC Foundation. In addition, he has given his time to such positions as director of the Home Builders Association of West Florida, the Lions Club, and the United Way Foundation. In 1959 Mr. Appleyard founded the John Appleyard Agency, a Pensacola advertising and public relations firm, for which he has actively been a part of since its inception. Over the past 50 years, this distinguished gentleman has received numerous honors and awards for his contributions to the Pensacola area. In 1955, Mr. Appleyard was recognized as the Jaycees Northwest Florida Young Man of the Year for his service with a variety of community organizations including the University of West Florida, Boy Scouts of America, and the YMCA, just to name a few. Continuing his efforts for the next 30 years, Mr. Appleyard was honored as the Chamber of Commerce-News Journal Pioneer Businessman of the Year in 1986 and awarded the Heritage Award of the Pensacola Historical Society in 1988. These are simply a few of the overwhelming number of awards and honors the Mr. Appleyard has received, a true testament to his dedication and commitment to the Pensacola community. As well has being firmly entrenched in the activities of the Pensacola community, Mr. Appleyard has become one the foremost historians on the Pensacola area. He has penned a variety of books, both fictional and non-fictional, including classics such as ``The Second Great Document'' and ``The Spanish-French Confrontation.'' Mr. Appleyard has also written several radio enactment plays and playlets. Mr. Speaker, on Thursday, November 14, 2002, John H. Appleyard, along with the Pensacola community, will celebrate his 80th birthday. On this such occasion, we honor a great historian, businessman, and neighbor; one of Pensacola's greatest citizens.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fire Chief Guy Willis of the Ocean City-Wright Fire Department. For 55 years, Chief Willis has dedicated his services to our Armed Forces and Okaloosa County, Florida. Guy J. Willis, Jr., was born in Mt. Ephriam, New Jersey on March 12, 1934, he was the son of Gary J. Willis, Sr. and Anna C. Willis. He spent his early years at ``fish town,'' the oldest section of Northeast Philadelphia. In 1952, at the age of 17, he entered the United States Air Force receiving his basic training at Samson AFB, New York. After basic training, Chief Willis continued to serve in the Air Force in the fire service industry and retired in 1984 having served honorably for 32 years with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Chief Willis joined the Ocean City-Wright Fire Control District as a Fire Safety Officer and later was promoted to the Fire Chief position. He has been employed with the department for the past 18 years. Chief Willis is married to the former Miss Kimi Kato of Nagoya, Japan. He has been married for 46 years and has two sons, Colonel Guy J. Willis III, and Lt. Colonel Steven W. Willis, both of who are Air Force Academy graduates. In addition to his sons, Chief Willis has one brother, Ronald B. Willis, Chief Master Sergeant, USAF, retired, and one daughter-in-law, Judith R. Willis, Lt. Colonel, USAF, retired. Between the five Willis family members, they have served a total of 125 years of continuous Air Force service to our country. Chief Willis and his wife, Kimi, claim Florida as their home of record and the Ft. Walton Beach area as their permanent home of residence, as they have resided here longer than any place else since birth. On behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to recognize this special person for the example he has set in his community. I offer my sincere thanks for all that he has done for Northwest Florida and this great nation.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize J.D. Bray of Santa Rosa County. Mayor Bray served the town of Jay for forty-four years as Mayor holding the second longest reign in the state of Florida. Mayor Bray was born Christmas day in 1919 and has been a lifelong resident of Jay. Mayor Bray volunteered for the U.S. Army in 1939 and served 18 months in Europe. He risked his life for our country when he crossed the half intact Remigan Bridge, while being shelled, in the ``Battle of the Bulge''. After being discharged from the service in 1946, Mayor Bray worked for Escambia River Electric Cooperative until going into business for himself in 1954. He owned and operated the Bray Service Station until he sold the business in 1962. He then worked for the Jay Natural Gas System during construction of the system and the conversion of consumer's appliances. Mayor Bray managed the parts department of Burns Tractor Company in 1963 and worked there until he accepted a job with the Santa Rosa County Board of Commissioners in 1968. Mayor Bray was elected to the Town Council of the town of Jay in 1954 and was elected its mayor in 1956. As mayor, Bray was instrumental in getting natural gas for the town, a sewer system, a second water well, a well-equipped voluntary fire department, Bray-Hendricks Park (named in his honor), which provides recreational facilities for all ages, and a new town hall. He worked to obtain facilities and transportation for over sixty years. I would also like to recognize Mayor Bray's family, who has had a helping hand in his success. Mayor Bray is married to the former Theda Rae Warrick and they have three children: Debbie Weil, Cheryl Bray, and Stewart Bray. Mr. Bray has been a part and is currently active in many organizations: Jay Volunteer Fire Department, Quarterback Club, Redrock Lodge number 96, Scottish Rite, Hadji Shrine Temple and Mustang Unit, Veterans of Foreign Wars and member and past commander of American Legion Post number 121. On behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to recognize this special person for the example he has set in his community. I offer my sincere thanks for all that he has done for Northwest Florida.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my constituent and the new National Football League's All-Time leading rusher, Emmitt Smith. On Sunday, October 27, 2002, Emmitt Smith took a handoff and crashed through the line for an 11-yard gain, giving him 16,728 career rushing yards, breaking the 15-year mark set by the former Chicago Bears great, Walter Payton, and establishing him as the most complete running back in NFL history. At Escambia High School, Emmitt Smith posted some of the state's highest career rushing and scoring titles with 8,804 yards, 106 touchdowns and two state titles. As a senior, Emmitt Smith was an All- American running back and prep Player of the Year by Parade magazine and USA Today. He was also selected as the ``Just Say No'' anti-drug campaign's prep football players representative at the White House. Being one of the nation's top high school recruits, Emmitt Smith decided to stay at home in the Sunshine State and attend the University of Florida. In his seventh game as a Gator, he passed the 1,000-yard mark faster than any other runner in college football history and led the Southeastern Conference in rushing as a freshman with 1,341 yards. Following his college career, Emmitt was the 17th pick by the Dallas Cowboys in the 1990 NFL draft. Considered too small and too slow by critics, he made an impression few other players can equal. Throughout his 12-year career, he has established himself as one of the games all- time greats. He has won three Super Bowl titles, four NFL rushing titles and a league and Super Bowl Most Valuable Player award. This same man who is impossible to tackle on the football field has trounced his biggest adversaries not in the football stadiums across the country, but on the streets and neighborhoods of our communities. Emmitt Smith is active in the communities of Northwest Florida, dedicating his time to aiding youth and children. He hosts the annual Feed the Children food drive and is a national spokesman for the ``Take a Player to School Program'' and is one of the many supporters of Big Brother/Big Sisters and Boys Club of Pensacola. On behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to congratulate Emmitt Smith, number 22, on his great achievement and offer my sincere thanks for his example to the communities of Northwest Florida.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, no Member of this body ever wants to put our men and women in harm's way in a war, a war that will undoubtedly cost lives and inflict anxiety on the families of the loved ones who are in harm's way. My community hosts the Navy's future force in schoolhouses, in the Air Force's current command and wing commands and special operation units. It is these brave men and women who will fight this war. These are the men and women who will put their lives on the line for us and defend freedom. I do not question the need for this action. I do not question the risk that is presented. But I do not wish for this war. I wish with all my soul that this monster could be removed from power without firing a single shot. I wish the people of Iraq would rise up and put their lives on the line, as our military personnel will. I wish we did not have to send America's sons and daughters to liberate their sons and daughters from a man who murders his own people. I wish our European partners would see the threat as we do. I wish they would use their tools to unite a common response to Iraq rather than sow the seeds of division seen in the parliaments and personal political campaigns of our allies. But most of all, we see that the world is content to ride our backs to prosperity and to freedom, a weight that we have carried before and, apparently, will carry again. Mr. Speaker, I know this task must be carried out by the United States of America. We must face this continued threat of terrorism head on, alone, or with our friends. And this position is no different than our position in the past. As leaders of the free world, we have always walked point. Mr. Speaker, we must trust our values, protect our freedom, and let liberty be our guide. This strategy has served us well over the past 200 years, and I can think of no reason to turn our back on it today. I support the President of the United States, and I support this resolution.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I move to lay the appeal on the table.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, today marks the one-year anniversary of the most horrendous act of terrorism ever perpetrated against any country. Our nation will never be the same after nineteen terrorists took thousands of American lives and declared war on our great nation. Since the infamous day last Fall, an outpouring of patriotism and love for this country can be felt in cities and towns from coast to coast. The symbol of America, our flag, can still be seen flying with dignity and honor outside homes and businesses, displaying the true pride this nation has in its freedoms and unwavering principles. As we look back at the tragedy of that day, I know that everyone will remember where he or she was on September 11th, 2001. I am sure we have all contemplated the frailty of life and that God has never promised anyone a set number of days. It is my hope that the citizens of the United States will use this time in our history as a catalyst to advance the nation and to return to the roots to which it was established; faith in God, democracy and patriotism. Terrorism is still a threat to the civilized world and must be destroyed before it spreads. The primary weapons of terrorism are violence and fear. Those who have no respect for human life and seek terror through these means have no place in civilized society, and must be eliminated. As President Reagan has said, ``We will always remember. We will always be proud. We will always be prepared, so we may always be free.'' Let us keep the families that lost loved ones in our prayers and continue to support our deployed military personnel who courageously protect our liberties and freedoms. They are the true patriots. I praise my colleagues and the President for the courage and resolve they have displayed during these trying and difficult times. May God grant us the wisdom to lead this country forward in a manner that would please Him and may He look favorably upon our great nation.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 348, I was detained from returning for the vote. Had I been present, would have voted ``Yea.''

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today also in support of the partial-birth abortion ban of 2002. We have been accused of being political with this piece of legislation. We have been told that this is an infringement on women's rights, and I will tell my colleagues that what this is is an infringement on a person's right who is too young to speak, certainly too young to vote. I believe the life of the unborn child begins at conception, and I do believe that every time an abortion occurs, a life is lost. Each year over a million babies are slain at the hands of doctors performing abortions. Some doctors willingly and routinely kill babies during the second and sometimes third trimester. We have already heard that this is an excruciatingly painful procedure where the doctor violently manipulates the baby's position, creating a breech delivery, and then mercilessly stabs through the child's skull to remove the baby's brain with a vacuum. This procedure is appalling and disturbing, and I feel it is nothing short of murder. In response to the Supreme Court's split decision in the Stenberg- Carhart ruling, this will help give clear guidelines to what is considered constitutional and prohibited.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, today I rise with reserved support for the FY 02 supplemental Conference Report. This legislation, billed as a wartime supplemental, has egregious spending proposals I cannot wholly support. However, with more than $14 billion going to support our men and women in uniform, I am unable to oppose the measure. In my opinion, Mr. Speaker, this bill is the embodiment of resentment our constituents express in regular helpings. This process, of using strong and vital proposals to shield what is essentially pork, afford the hard working taxpayers in this country a valid complaint against their government. I have read and reread the bill, Mr. Speaker. I shook my head with disgust and held my breath when casting my aye vote. My vote supports our efforts to defend this great country and to protect our interests in other lands. However, I know that this supplemental could have been better and I know for a fact that our constituents deserve better.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the family of Rex and Ann Thomas. For eight generations this farming family has symbolized the tradition of the American family and our community values. The Thomas family can trace their roots in America back to the early 1700's where their family homestead in North Carolina. The Thomas family remained in North Carolina until the death of William Elias Thomas, who died in the Civil War. His wife, Mary, went south with six of her nine children settling in Alabama. Their grandson, Charles Thomas married Blanche Stevens and moved to Santa Rosa County, FL, to farm new land and raise six children. Upon the retirement of Charles Thomas, he handed the farm over to his two sons, James and John Rex. Rex Thomas' passions in life were his family and agriculture. Rex farmed from the time of his father's retirement; he also worked in other areas of the agricultural world. This included farm equipment sales, the management of granaries, and the ownership of his farm supply business. Ann Thomas, with the help of her sons Dale and Richard, farms around 660 acres of row crops and hay while running the farm supply business. John Rex Thomas Jr. lives with his family in Texas, but can be seen helping out around the farm whenever he is home. Lowell, Rex and Ann's second son, can also be seen driving a truck or tractor whenever help is needed. The Thomas family has been blessed throughout the years by having strong family values. Whether they are watching their grandchildren's T-ball games, enjoying family gatherings or at a local church function, Rex and Ann Thomas like to be surrounded by as many family and friends as possible. On behalf of the U.S. Congress, I would like to recognize this special family for the example they have set in their community. I offer my sincere thanks for all that they have done for northwest Florida.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. I will not take 3 minutes today, but I do associate myself with the gentleman's comments and the gentleman's apt portrayal of the infamous Battle of the Bulge, the largest land battle of the Second World War. As has already been pointed out to this Chamber today, Winston Churchill called it ``the greatest American battle'' of that war. I strongly support the Battle of the Bulge survivors' request for a new memorial that recognizes the scope of this battle, and I urge all of my colleagues to support H.R. 5055. I appreciate the chairman and the ranking member for their leadership on this bill.

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time, and I thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Chairman Smith) and the ranking member, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans) for bringing this bill to the floor today, in addition to their steadfast commitment to our military veterans. I would also like to recognize and thank the gentleman from Arizona (Chairman Stump) for his continued commitment to preserving the original intent of Arlington National Cemetery as a national military cemetery, as well as unwavering support for our men and women in uniform. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4940, the Arlington National Cemetery Burial Eligibility Act, would codify eligibility criteria for burial at Arlington in order to ensure it remains the premier resting place for those who dedicated their lives to our Armed Forces. The bill incorporates the provisions of previous Arlington bills which have passed this House in both the 105th and 106th Congress. The bill also incorporates language included in H.R. 3423, introduced by Chairman Smith, which passed the House last December. H.R. 4940 contains a significant change to the Arlington bills approved in the House in the past two Congresses. Today's bill includes language extending to the President the authority to grant a burial waiver to an individual who does not otherwise meet the military service criteria for burial, but has made extraordinary contributions to our Armed Forces. The final section of the bill would make retroactive to September 11, 2001, VA's authority to provide a bronze marker to those families who request a government headstone or marker for the already-marked grave of a veteran interred at a private cemetery. Previous language authorizing this bronze marker was considered by the House last year, and is now incorporated in Public Law 106-103. That particular provision went into effect in December 27, 2001, and I would like to recognize the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Shimkus) for his work on this issue. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4940 and look forward to working with the other body to ensure that this bill becomes law this year.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Chairman, on September 11th, terrorist hijackers killed eight unarmed pilots, hundreds of passengers, and thousands of innocent people. There is evidence that more terrorist cells have been trained to take over commercial aircraft. Our own armed services may be forced to shoot down a plane full of innocent passengers to thwart a terrorist takeover. The Federal Government has a constitutional mandate to provide for the common defense. Mr. Chairman, we are failing! Our aviation system is still vulnerable, and we remain susceptible to unknown threats from an often- invisible enemy. Arming trained and qualified pilots to defend their aircraft cockpits is a necessary step to ensure the safety of the flying public. Many pilots have a law enforcement or military background and have experience with firearms. Pilots are entrusted with the lives of the flying public, and arming them will serve as a significant deterrent. What hijacker will break into a cockpit not knowing whether he will face an armed pilot? Mr. Chairman, some of my hoplophobic colleagues will urge us to give the current efforts at heightened security a chance. They will cite more metal detectors, sealed cockpit doors and the presence of air marshals. I ask them to explain that rationale to loved ones of the 9/ 11 victims. Mr. Chairman, we would never ask a combat pilot to fly into battle without his side arm as a back up. On September 11th, the battlefield entered the cockpit of commercial aircraft. How can we deny the pilots of commercial aircraft the right to defend themselves and the passengers on their aircraft?

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida

Mr. JEFF MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, look what the courts have done now. Just when we think life after September 11 had gained some sense of normalcy, just after patriotism at a level not seen since World War II had permeated every segment of our society, a society under God, two liberal judges in San Francisco have told this Nation at war that our Pledge of Allegiance is unconstitutional. Personally, Mr. Speaker, I am sickened. The Pledge is not a prayer. It is a declaration of being an American. It is the embodiment of everything we hold dear, the flag, the Republic, and one Nation under God. I guess in a country where our constitutional safeguards have been taken to the extreme and have had to have nativity scenes removed from town squares and even silent prayers removed from high school football games, I should not be surprised. I suspect it is only a matter of time or a matter of finding the right lawyer who is seeking to make a name for himself to proclaim that the U.S. flag is unconstitutional and that by flying the flag someone may be offended by its semblance. We are forced to say happy holidays instead of Merry Christmas. We are forced to say gesundheit rather than God bless you. If a school teacher mentions Jesus during a lesson on history, that teacher faces disciplinary action. Mr. Speaker, it is time we put our foot down as a body, a representative body of this country and respond to this outrageous decision and proclaim that these United States are united against terrorism, united against this decision, and united under God.