Luke Messer

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. I appreciate the gentleman's comments. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S. 1300, the Adoptive Family Relief Act. For many, family is everything, and as any parent knows, not seeing your child for even one day can be hard. Now, imagine you are separated from your child by over 6,000 miles for more than 2 years. This is the reality for too many Americans. Hundreds of adopted children are stuck in the Democratic Republic of the Congo because their government has refused to provide the paperwork required for these children to leave. For over 2 years, the Meyers, a family in my district, have been waiting to bring home their son and daughter, Papy and Octavie. We can do better for Papy and Octavie and all the other children waiting to come home to their families. As the Department of State continues to work to bring home these children, S. 1300 would provide much-needed relief to American families going through this harrowing experience. I urge my colleagues to vote for this legislation. It is the right thing to do and worthy of your support.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Madam Speaker, Proverbs 31:8 calls us all to speak for those who can't speak for themselves. That is why I am here today. I refuse to say nothing while Planned Parenthood executives are revealed casually putting a price tag on human life and haggling over the dollar value of an aborted child's lungs, kidneys, and heart. These actions are unthinkable. This legislation is actually a modest proposal that would place an immediate 1-year moratorium on all Federal funding of Planned Parenthood. It also funds women's health by taking the half-billion dollars that taxpayers send to Planned Parenthood every year and putting it instead in the hands of community organizations and health clinics that focus on saving lives, not ending them. Madam Speaker, no matter where you fall on the abortion debate, we can all agree that no unborn child should be dismembered and sold part by part. Where that is happening, let's stop it and join together to speak for those who can't speak for themselves.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to oppose this legislation and the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, also known as the Iran nuclear deal. A chief reason for this opposition is important, yet simple: The Iran nuclear deal doesn't make America safer, it doesn't make Israel safer, and it doesn't make the rest of the world safer either. Whatever your thoughts on this Iran nuclear deal, we should all be able to agree, the world will be a much more dangerous and unstable place if Iran were to obtain a nuclear weapon. Unfortunately, the deal the President negotiated won't stop that from happening. Instead, under this deal, Iran gets to keep its nuclear facilities. Amazingly, it will be allowed to self-police those facilities and report directly to the IAEA, an idea that would be laughable if it were not so crazy. Iran will get to enrich uranium, all while receiving sanctions relief to the tune of $150 billion--$150 billion pumped into a $400 billion a year national economy; $150 billion that will no doubt be used by Iran to bankroll terrorist organizations, further destabilize the Middle East, and continue their work to wipe Israel off the map. It was Ronald Reagan who said ``trust but verify'' during arms control negotiations with Communist Russia more than a generation ago, but it seems the Obama administration is asking us to trust Iran and then trust some more. Well, I'm not willing to do that, and the American people aren't willing to do that either. We need to stop this bad deal before it is too late and negotiate a better deal, a deal that stops Iran's nuclear program and ensures the safety of America, Israel, and the rest of the world now and into the future.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of a remarkable war hero from Indiana's 6th Congressional District--World War II Veteran, Carl Crisp. Carl honorably served in the United States Army Air Corps from 1943 to 1945. He flew numerous missions with the allied forces throughout the Ardennes and played a critical role in liberating France from Nazi occupation. It's been a long time coming, but on Saturday, August 1, 2015, Carl will be presented the French Legion of Honor Medal during a ceremony at the Henry County Historical Society Museum. This distinguished honor is given only to those who have served France or the ideals it upholds, and Carl's service in World War II makes him more than deserving. I congratulate Carl on this recognition and thank him for his service on behalf of our great nation. The entire free world owes him a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Margaret A. ``Annie'' Laudick, a loving wife and the mother of my close friend, Andy Laudick. Annie was a devoted wife to James, her husband of 47 years, as well as an adoring mother and grandmother to her two children and nine granddaughters. She was a woman of great faith, belonging to St. Mary's Catholic Church. She was also a member of the Eagles Ladies Auxiliary and the American Legion Auxiliary. Annie will be greatly missed by not only her family, but also by the Greensburg community. Her capacity for love and compassion is unrivaled, and I consider it a privilege to have known such a benevolent and sincere woman. On a personal note, I will never forget Annie's smile. In high school, I remember going to Andy's house to swim at their pond. And, every time I visited, I would be greeted by his mom's big smile. She was a remarkable woman who will truly be missed by everyone whose lives she touched. Today, it is my privilege to honor the life of Margaret A. Laudick.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of one of the best men I've ever known, Bob Brewsaugh who passed away over the weekend at the age of 76. The good book says in 2 Corinthians 9:6, ``He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.'' Bob Brewsaugh lived this scripture. Bob was a lifelong farmer, and a loving father and grandfather. But, most importantly, Bob Brewsaugh was a man of God. He worked hard. He treated everyone with kindness and respect. Whether as a Sunday school teacher at Sandusky United Methodist Church or as a County Councilman or in his daily work on the farm . . . Bob tilled the land. He sowed bountifully. And as a consequence, he reaped a blessed and bountiful life. My thoughts and prayers are with Bob's wife Carolyn, his two kids Scott and Mandy, my brother Richie who is Bob's son-in-law, and Scott's wife Sarah. I also pray for Bob's grandchildren, including my nephews Connor, Trey and Reid, and the entire extended Brewsaugh family.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of one of the best men I have ever known, Bob Brewsaugh, who passed away over the weekend at the age of 76. The Good Book says, in 2 Corinthians 9:6: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, but he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Bob Brewsaugh lived this Scripture. He was a lifelong farmer and a loving father and grandfather. Most importantly, Bob Brewsaugh was a man of God. He worked hard. He treated everyone with kindness and respect, whether as a Sunday School teacher at Sandusky United Methodist Church or as a county councilman or in his daily work on the farm. Bob tilled the land. He sowed bountifully. As a consequence, he reaped a blessed and bountiful life. My thoughts and prayers are with Bob's wife, Carolyn; his two kids, Scott and Mandy; my brother, Richie; all Bob's grandkids; and the entire extended Brewsaugh family.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Oldenburg Indiana Volunteer Fire Department's 150 years of service to the community. Being a volunteer firefighter is a special calling. These brave men and women who serve obviously don't do it for the money. They volunteer for this job because they love their community and want to give back. Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect their neighbors. And, for that, their community owes them a tremendous debt of gratitude. It is my privilege to recognize Oldenburg's courageous firefighters for their dedication and to recognize the Oldenburg Indiana Volunteer Fire Department for 150 years of service to the community.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 375 I was unavoidably detained and missed the recorded vote. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of trade promotion authority because I am a conservative who believes trade creates jobs and opportunity. In my district, farmers grow corn and soybeans and sell them all over the world. Factory workers, like my mom, build faucets, cars, forklifts, and caskets and sell them all over the world. Trade allows that to happen. When the American worker gets a chance to compete on a level playing field, we win. That is why we need trade agreements. The truth is, under the policies of this administration, paychecks are shrinking. For many workers, there is more month than money as they struggle to pay their bills. Killing this legislation does nothing to help those workers. In fact, it would only make their situation worse. Trade-related jobs pay better. And when 95 percent of the Earth's population lives outside the United States, we can't afford to pull up the drawbridges and shut out the rest of the world. That is not smart policy, and it won't help the American worker. Let's grow our economy. Let's secure good-paying jobs. And let's make sure the American worker leads this century just like we did the last.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary accomplishments and career of Sue DeWine, President of Hanover College, located in Indiana's 6th District. After more than 40 years in education, Sue became the first female President of Hanover College in 2007. During her tenure, overall enrollment at the college increased by 20% and campus diversity grew from 9% to 15%, where it currently stands. In addition to many other achievements, President DeWine made it possible for faculty and student representatives to serve on the Board of Trustees at the college. It's a move that helped solidify her reputation as leader who listened to and advocated for her students and faculty. President DeWine will be retiring in the coming weeks, and she will be missed by all those whom worked with her. Her leadership touched the lives of thousands and her commitment to Hanover's students and faculty will never be forgotten. I ask the entire 6th Congressional District to join me in thanking her for her long career and distinguished service.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of William Louis ``Bill'' Hortsman, a devoted family man, respected Hoosier leader, and a selfless contributor to the Jennings County community. Bill leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Ruth Ann Hortsman, and his two children, Duane and Denise. Mr. Hortsman graduated from North Vernon High School in 1951 and, in addition to attending First United Methodist Church in North Vernon, was also a member of Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church in Charlestown. Bill is a true patriot who served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 after graduating from high school. In his early career, Bill worked for Hortsman Standard Service Station and Hortsman's Standard Oil Delivery. Bill was also well-known for his commitment to his community. He was a life-long volunteer at the Center Township Fire Department, and he served as Chief for eight years. Bill was also a bus driver for Jennings County Schools for 4 decades, Justice of the Peace for Center Township for eight years, Jennings County Treasurer for four terms, and a worker in the Jennings County Treasurer's Office for 28 years before retiring in 2008. In his free time, which was limited, Mr. Hortsman enjoyed word puzzles and the outdoors, including fishing trips and yard work. Bill was not only a valuable asset to his community, but also my friend. He frequently attended my Coffee with the Congressman meetings in the 6th District of Indiana and was a long-time supporter of my efforts to serve the State of Indiana. I will always be grateful for the encouragement he gave me and the impact he made on me throughout my political career. He will be missed. Today, it is my privilege to honor the life of William Louis ``Bill'' Hortsman. My thoughts and prayers go out to Bill's family, and may God comfort those he left behind with His peace and strength.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of my Aunt, Tamela Lynn Lathery Flemmings, a woman of great faith and an active volunteer in the Connersville community. Tamela was a loving and devoted wife to her husband of 12 years, Marcus. She was the proud mother of her daughter, Mamie Rae Young, and leaves behind a large family including her husband, mother, brothers, sisters, as well as many, many nieces and nephews. In addition to spending time with her family, Tamela was known for her faith in the Lord, as a member of the Growing Branches for Christ Church. Her faith led to an active commitment in her community. Through her work to help others recover from their drug and alcohol addictions by way of the Solid Rock Ministries and the House of Ruth, Tamela was able to serve the lives of many. She also regularly volunteered with Walk a Mile in My Shoes and Gentle Christmas. I know my Aunt Tamela was someone with a loving spirit, who could be counted on for her warm laugh and big smile. She was a straight- shooter, who was candid, loyal and smart. I will always be grateful for her love, friendship and support. Tamela, you will be missed by those you helped to smile, succeed and empower. May God bless you, your family, and all the people of Connersville who you touched and saved through your work.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Sheriff Michael ``Mike'' Scroggins, a devoted civil servant and longtime political leader in Delaware County. Mike is a lifelong Hoosier and leaves behind a legacy of public service in our state. After nearly 30 years as a police officer, including 11 years as a Uniform Division Commander, he ran successfully for Delaware County Sheriff in both 2010 and 2014. He is also a proud graduate of the respected FBI National Academy. He devoted his entire adult life to protecting and bettering his community and for that he will always be remembered. Sheriff Scroggins was a member of Whitney Lodge #229, the Indiana Sheriff's Association, and the Mt. Olive Community Church. He was also actively involved with the Delaware County Council, making public appearances regularly to advocate for his officers and his department. In his free time, Mike enjoyed fishing trips and spending time with his family. Today, it is my privilege to honor the life of Mike Scroggins. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mike's family, and may God comfort those left behind with his peace and strength.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a great Hoosier, a true patriot, and my friend, Major General R. Martin Umbarger of the Indiana National Guard. He is retiring at the end of this month. General Umbarger started his career in public service as an enlisted soldier in the Indiana Army National Guard in 1969. Over the next three decades, Marty rose through the ranks and stood out as a remarkable leader. In 2004, then-Governor Mitch Daniels appointed him Adjutant General of the State of Indiana, where he served as the highest ranking military officer in our great State's National Guard for more than 10 years. Mr. Speaker, General Umbarger is a true Hoosier hero. His shoes will be big ones to fill. Best of luck in your retirement, sir, and thank you for your incredible service to our State and our Nation.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the en bloc amendment and the underlying bill. My amendment language would simply require a study of the effects of any final EPA ozone rule on our military readiness. Mr. Chairman, we all want a healthy planet, but we must also recognize the real world consequences of any regulations that we pass. For example, according to NERA Economic Consulting, stricter ozone standards could reduce U.S. GDP by $1.7 trillion over 20 years, killing 340,000 jobs in Indiana alone. The EPA ozone rule will no doubt affect our military readiness as well. Estimates show 11 million acres of land under DOD control could be impacted. Tighter ozone standards could force imposition of new emission controls on our military vehicles. Military air bases could be impacted as well. No matter what you think of the EPA ozone rule, we should all agree that we ought to know how the final rule impacts our military readiness. Congress has no more important responsibility than protecting our national security. I urge my colleagues to support the amendment.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Donald ``Danny'' Danielson, a devoted family man, respected Hoosier business leader, military veteran and longtime philanthropist. Danny leaves behind his three daughters and eight grandchildren and was preceded in death by his wife of more than six decades, Patricia. Danny attended Indiana University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in education in 1942. But, instead of launching a career in education, Danny decided to enlist in the U.S. Navy, right in the middle of World War II. He served in both the Pacific and Atlantic Theaters until 1946, when he was discharged with the rank of Lieutenant. After his service in the military, Danny was invited to attend training camp with the Brooklyn Dodgers, but instead, he took a different route. He worked for the Alumni Association at IU for a while before starting his career at City Securities in 1976. By 1981, Danny was elected Vice Chairman of the board there. Although busy in his professional and personal life, Danny was a big believer in the importance of community service and giving back. He spent a lot of his time and money working to make Henry County and the state of Indiana a better place for its residents. He and his wife led the effort to relocate the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame to New Castle in 1990, and they also championed for the development of the new Henry County YMCA in 2003. Danny also served on the IU board of trustees for many years and donated $1.3 million to the Indiana University School of Medicine. He was also chairman of the Walther Cancer Foundation for a time, chaired the Fellowship of Christian Athletes' national board, and served as a director of New Castle's Americana Bancorp. Because of his outstanding leadership and service to his community, Danny received the Sachem award in 2009, which is the highest honor given by the great state of Indiana. He also received the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash award and was named a ``Living Legend'' by the Indiana Historical Society in 2014. Danny was also my friend. I will always be grateful for the encouragement and support he gave me early in my political career. And, I know the city of New Castle and the State of Indiana will always be grateful for his selfless contributions. Today, it is my privilege to honor the life of Danny Danielson. My thoughts and prayers go out to Danny's family, and may God comfort those he left behind with his peace and strength.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Dr. Raymond M. Maddox, a well-known dentist and respected member of the Rushville community. Dr. Maddox was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was married to his wife Kay Maddox for 43 years. Together, they had two children and four grandchildren. A lifelong Hoosier, Ray attended Taylor University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in both biology and chemistry in 1971. After college, he attended and graduated from Indiana University's School of Dentistry in 1975 to pursue a professional dental career. Dr. Maddox then practiced dentistry in Rushville and Hartford City for several decades. In addition to his practice, he served in many leadership roles in the dental community. He was the past president of the Indiana Dental Association, delegate to the American Dental Association caucus 7th district, fellow of the American College of Dentists, president of the American College of Dentistry-Indiana Foundation, vice speaker of IDA House of Delegates, and Parliamentarian of IDA House of Delegates. Although Ray was known as a great dentist and as someone dedicated to his profession, he was respected and loved for much more than that. Members of the community, his family and friends loved him for his ability to create meaningful relationships and brighten the lives of all those with whom he came in contact. Ray Maddox was my friend. I will never forget his smile, his positive attitude and his strong support of my own career in public service. They don't come any more loyal than Ray Maddox. Today, it is my privilege to honor his life and legacy. My thoughts and prayers go out to Ray's family, and may God comfort those he left behind with his peace and strength.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Tom Ray Raper, an innovative entrepreneur, generous philanthropist and devoted family man from the Sixth District of Indiana. Tom embodied what it meant to live the American Dream. He took a $2,000 investment in 1964 to open a small used car dealership and eventually turned it into one of the largest RV dealerships in America. He owned and operated Tom Raper RVs for 38 more years before selling his dealership empire to David Bane's Camping World Company in 2002. Not only was Tom a monumental success in the RV business, but he was also known for his huge heart and charitable spirit. After selling his company, Mr. Raper used his time and money to give back to the Richmond community. In 2009, Indiana University East renamed Middlefork Hall to Tom Raper Hall after he bequeathed $2.17 million to the university. Tom donated more than $1 million to Wayne County to build a 5,000-seat exhibition building and to make other improvements to the Wayne County Fairgrounds. He also gave $250,000 to the city to transform the gymnasium at the Civil Hall into a modern performing arts center. Most recently, Tom, established a $50,000 endowed scholarship fund at Ivy Tech Community College in Richmond as a means to provide more students with the opportunity to get a college education. It is for selfless contributions like these that the city of Richmond renamed Williamsburg Pike to Williamsburg Pike/Tom Raper Way. I have had the pleasure to meet with Tom several times throughout my life. He was an icon in Richmond and a philanthropic inspiration for any man or woman looking to give back to their community. I will always be grateful for the contributions he has made to improve the great city of Richmond, Indiana. Today, it is my privilege to honor the life of Tom Raper. My thoughts and prayers go out to Tom's family and his wife of 46 years, Suzanne. May God comfort those he left behind with His peace and strength.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 36th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA). The U.S.-Taiwan bilateral relationship has expanded and grown stronger since the TRA was signed into law in 1979. I recently returned from Taiwan where I experienced firsthand our shared values and close economic ties. Last year, Taiwan was the United States' 10th largest trading partner. My home state of Indiana has also benefited from these commercial partnerships and was the first state to establish a trade office in Taiwan. On April 9th, President Ma Ying-jeou shared his insight on our bilateral relations in his remarks at the AmCham's annual Hsieh Nien Fan gala which I have included below. Like President Ma, I look forward to continuing to promote policies that reaffirm our mutual commitment to democratic and economic development. ``I am very pleased to be here today for AmCham's annual Hsieh Nien Fan. This is a special occasion for me, because it marks the 13th time that I have been invited to attend. But there's also another reason why today is a very special day. It's because tomorrow is April the 10th, and that marks the 36th anniversary of the date the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) took effect. ``At the moment, U.S.-Taiwan relations are indeed the best they have been in the 36 years since the TRA became effective. Everyone in Taiwan, military and civilians, was shocked back on December 16, 1978 when President Carter announced on TV that the U.S. was breaking diplomatic relations with the Republic of China. But three months later, the U.S. Congress made significant amendments to the Carter administration's Taiwan Enabling Act. Congress not only changed the content of the Act, but also changed its name to the Taiwan Relations Act. ``As you all know, based on existing international law, an unrecognized country loses its status as a legal entity in the United States. It therefore cannot engage in any legal proceedings due to the lack of a judicial personality. But the TRA not only sees Taiwan as a foreign government for purposes of U.S. law, but also allows Taiwan to initiate and respond to judicial litigation. The TRA also allows the U.S. government to provide Taiwan with defensive weaponry. And the property rights attached to our embassy and Twin Oaks estate in Washington, DC also remained unaffected by the break in diplomatic relations or de-recognition. ``Since I took office nearly seven years ago, mutual trust between Taiwan and the United States at the highest levels of government has been restored. Taiwan military procurement from the U.S. has also exceeded U.S.$ 18.3 billion, the highest it has been in any period over the past 20 years, and twice what it was during my predecessor's term of office. And in March of 2013, our countries resumed negotiations under the 1994 Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) as we prepare to take a step-by-step ``building block'' approach in promoting further trade liberalization. ``Last year, Taiwan and the U.S. forged even closer cooperation in several areas. U.S. Secretary of Commerce statistics show that last year, Taiwan-U.S. trade in goods reached U.S.$ 67.4 billion. That allowed Taiwan to surpass India and Saudi Arabia to become the United States' 10th largest trading partner. At the same time, the U.S. once again surpassed Japan to become Taiwan's second largest trading partner. Last month, Taiwan companies also flocked to the U.S. government's SelectUSA 2015 Investment Summit, and overall, the Taiwan contingent was the second largest group in attendance. ``In addition to our interaction in the economic and trade arenas, official contacts between Taiwan and the U.S. have also continued. In December of last year, President Obama signed the Naval Vessel Transfer Act of 2014, agreeing to sell the ROC four Perry-class frigates. High-level U.S. officials also visited here, most notably U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy, who came to Taiwan in April last year. She was the first U.S. Cabinet- level official to visit us in 14 years. ``This year, in February, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Russel stated that over the past few years, developments in Taiwan-U.S. relations have been productive. He also said that those developments were closely related to the improvement in cross-strait relations. He also expressed that the U.S. hopes to see the continued positive development of cross-strait relations. ``So ever since the Cold War began, this was the first time that the United States did not have to choose sides when handling cross-strait relations. Nor did mainland China or Taiwan have to face that kind of predicament. This highlights our efforts in the realm of cross-strait relations over the past few years, as both ROC-U.S. and cross-strait relations have become more harmonious. As this kind of interaction has transformed Taiwan's cross-strait and international relations, the vicious cycle of the past is gone, and we're moving ahead under the virtuous cycle of today. ``In truth, the Republic of China and the U.S. have a long and storied relationship. Now, I would like to tell you two stories to illustrate our friendship. ``The first story I want to tell occurred at the very beginning of the 20th century. In 1901, one year after the so-called Boxer Rebellion, the Qing Empire and the United States signed the Boxer Protocol, which paid U.S.$ 24.4 million to the U.S.--known as the Boxer Indemnity. In his State of the Union Address in 1907, President Theodore Roosevelt stated that part of the Boxer Indemnity should be returned to China. In 1924, an executive order by U.S. President Coolidge returned the other portions of the Boxer Indemnity. So by that time, the U.S. had returned about 95% of the Indemnity to the Republic of China, making a tremendous contribution to cultivating human talent. The Boxer Indemnity Scholarship Program provided funds that helped many people who became the pillars of the Republic of China. And what the U.S. did also had an effect in Europe, where Holland used Boxer Indemnity funds to set up a China Research Program at Leiden University. That made Leiden University a strategic center for research on China, and fostered several generations of talented individuals. That soon became the norm, and the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and Japan all followed suit. ``The second story took place 75 years ago. This year is the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, and the Republic of China's victory in the War of Resistance against Japan. During the course of World War II, the U.S. government and citizens not only gave the Republic of China substantive assistance, but also proved to be staunch friends. That hard- fought War of Resistance between the Republic of China and Japanese forces lasted for eight long years. For the first four years, our soldiers fought virtually alone, without any assistance from outside sources. During that period, however, the U.S. provided indirect assistance. And the most inspiring example of that assistance came from the American Volunteer Group--the AVG--which was later absorbed by the Fourteenth Army Air Force in China. That unit became known far and wide by their nickname: The Flying Tigers. They came to represent Chinese-American cooperation. When the Flying Tigers had been in China for less than a year, they had already downed at least 200 Japanese war planes. That allowed the Chinese Air Force, which was on its last legs, to slowly recover its fighting capabilities. So in November of 1943, at the Battle of Changde in Hunan Province, the U.S. Fourteenth Army Air Force in China joined forces with our own air force to form the Chinese-American Composite Wing. Working together, they brought down 25 Japanese planes, with another 14 planes listed as possibly shot down, and 19 additional Japanese planes damaged. The Japanese Air Force didn't dare return to challenge them again. And just when the forces defending Changde were in dire straits, the composite air forces air- dropped ammunition, rice, and pork for those ground troops. They also dispatched operatives to the battlefields who filed hourly intelligence reports to General Claire Lee Chennault. That allowed the General to direct the Flying Tigers to attack Japanese forces that mounted offensives, and also leverage victories by bombing defeated Japanese troops even as they retreated. ``So this year, we will be commemorating the 70th anniversary of victory in the War of Resistance Against Japan with various activities. We have decided to invite General Chennault's granddaughter, and descendants of General James Doolittle, who was famous for his bombing raid on Tokyo. We want to invite those descendants to participate in some activities, and also take advantage of this face-to-face meeting to thank their forbearers for their contributions to the Republic of China. ``For the Republic of China, from the beginning of the last century and up into the 1930s, 1940s, and even all the historical periods I didn't mention here today, there has been one constant: Our history, the history of the Republic of China, has been intimately linked with that of the United States. So my fondest hope is that we can build on the foundation of friendship that we've forged over more than a century, continue our cooperation, and strengthen our relationship. And that we can continue to make progress--in politics and economics, and in terms of our social, educational, and cultural interaction. As partners in progress, we can create a more beautiful future, and continue to write the history of tomorrow.''

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, located in my district in Greensburg, Indiana, reached a significant milestone by celebrating the production of its 1 millionth vehicle on April 8, 2015. Honda began manufacturing Civic Sedans at the plant in October of 2008 and is the sole U.S. plant producing these vehicles. While most of the production is slated for the U.S. market, the Indiana facility exports to a number of locations around the world. The facility's annual production capacity is currently 250,000 vehicles. Honda, a Japanese company, exemplifies how strong trade ties can benefit Indiana's economy. Honda purchases parts and materials from 49 suppliers from around the state of Indiana and has spent more than $16 billion with suppliers in North America since 2008. Additionally, since Honda opened its doors, it has had a strong presence in Greensburg and the surrounding communities, providing thousands of jobs to Hoosiers. Please join me in congratulating Honda and the more than 2,000 associates at the facility for this major manufacturing achievement.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Captain Luther Rice, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and a truly selfless Hoosier. Luther was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was married to his wife Barbara Anne Nehls Rice for 61 years. Together, they had three children and six grandchildren. Luther was also a proud Marine. He served in the United States Marine Corps for 23 years, eventually retiring with the rank of Captain in 1971. He completed one tour in Korea and two tours of duty in Vietnam, earning a Bronze Star with Combat ``V'' during his second Vietnam tour. Overall, Captain Rice was awarded an impressive 14 different medals during his career in the Marines. After his distinguished military career, Luther started attending night and summer school at Indiana State University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in 1977 and a Master's in K-12 education in 1978. Luther found a passion for education and was named principal of Connersville vocational school where he served from 1979 to 1983. He also taught at the Career Center in Versailles, Indiana, and was eventually appointed school principal there as well--a position he served in until his retirement in 1992. In 1991, Luther was appointed Judge of Aurora City Court by Indiana Governor Evan Bayh, a position he held for six years. In his spare time, Luther enjoyed supporting fellow veterans in his community. Luther was a lifetime member of the Korean War Veterans Association and served as its National Director for six years. He also volunteered at Dearborn County Hospital for 17 years, where he eventually became President of the Dearborn County Hospital Community Foundation. Today, it is my privilege to honor the life of Captain Luther Rice. My thoughts and prayers go out to Luther's family, and may God comfort those he left behind with His peace and strength.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Frank E. Gilkison, a longtime Muncie attorney and a truly admirable Hoosier. Frank was a devoted husband to his wife Donna, the loving father to five children, and stepfather to two step-sons. After initially serving as an Air Cadet for two years in the U.S. Army Air Corps, Frank diligently attended IU Law School before moving to Muncie. He started his 62-year law practice with a predecessor firm to Beasley and Gilkison and remained a member until his retirement in 2012. Not only was Frank one of the longest practicing attorneys from East Central Indiana, but he also served on the Indiana Supreme Court Commission on Character & Fitness for 35 years. Additionally, he was the CEO of Home Beverages, Inc., a small beverage distribution company for 45 years. Frank and Donna are also my close friends, who both played a key role in my career. They were among the first friends in Muncie to step forward in support of my initial Congressional pursuits. I will always be grateful for their friendship and early leadership. Today, it is my privilege to honor the life of Frank Gilkison. My thoughts and prayers go out to Frank's family, and may God comfort those he left behind with His peace and strength.

Mr. MESSER

Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of the Columbus North girls basketball team. The Columbus North girls' basketball team recently captured the team's first state championship. The Bulldogs won the Indiana High School Athletic Association Class 4A State Final 62-56 over Homestead High School. The team embodied the best of Hoosier sportsmanship with their dedication, grit, and execution shown not only in the championship game but throughout the entire season. For the leadership and support of this championship team, congratulations and accolades go to Superintendent Dr. John Quick, Principal David Clark, Athletic Director Jeff Hester, Coach Pat McKee, the assistant coaches, all other support staff, and the 27 young women who worked so hard to achieve their championship goal. I ask the entire 6th Congressional District to join me in congratulating the Columbus North Bulldogs for their impressive victory. I look forward to seeing what each of these talented young women will achieve in the future.