Mariannette Miller-Meeks

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Muscatine County Vietnam veteran Staff Sergeant Keith Ormsby, who has finally received an Air Medal and his Purple Heart for injuries sustained in battle 54 years ago. As Mr. Ormsby's Representative in Congress, I had the privilege of pinning him with the Purple Heart and personally thanking him for his dedicated service to our country during a special ceremony that took place on our Nation's Independence Day. On January 31, 1970, while leading his platoon through the Vietnamese jungle and unloading a helicopter at a landing zone, Mr. Ormsby's unit was ambushed, resulting in him being shot and wounded. Due to the chaotic nature of those times, the paperwork for his Purple Heart was never processed, and he was air-evacuated out of Vietnam immediately. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Muscatine County VA, we were finally able to properly recognize this hero. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Ormsby for his service to our country and expressing our gratitude to the Muscatine County VA and Eric for their exceptional work. God bless our veterans, and may God bless the United States of America. Honoring Dawnell Doreo on Her Retirement

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service and career of Dawnell Doreo, who will be retiring after nearly four decades serving our Nation's heroes at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Dawnell is a lifelong resident of Iowa's First District, having grown up on a small farm in Washington, Iowa. She began her service at the Iowa City VA Medical Center in 1986 as a ward clerk and rose up through the ranks over the decades to become a management and program analyst today. Because of Dawn, the Iowa City VA was able to provide world-class healthcare and benefits to our veterans. In her free time, Dawnell also volunteers as a court-appointed special advocate, where she serves as a fierce advocate for child welfare. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Dawnell's amazing career and wishing her the absolute best on a well-earned retirement. Jensen Wedeking Receives Medal of Merit

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jensen Wedeking of Bellevue, Iowa, for receiving the American Medal of Merit. As a member of Bellevue's Boy Scout Troop 86, Jensen achieved the prestigious Eagle rank in 2023 after leading various community projects. However, his most remarkable achievement came when he saved the life of his friend. During a nighttime drive, Jensen's friend suffered an allergic reaction to peanuts. Acting swiftly and drawing on his Boy Scout training, Jensen administered lifesaving epinephrine via an EpiPen before rushing his friend to the hospital. This quick thinking and exemplary first aid skills really underscore Jensen's exceptional character and deep concern for others, qualities that define recipients of the Medal of Merit. This national award is bestowed upon Scouts who demonstrate uncommon valor and compassion in critical situations, criteria that Jensen undoubtedly fulfilled. I congratulate Jensen on this well-deserved recognition and on his quick thinking. Thanking Tom Woodruff

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a remarkable man whose passion for history has led to the immortalization of some of Iowa's forgotten heroes. Tom Woodruff stands as a testament to the dedication and tenacity in preserving the legacy of the Littleton brothers, Union soldiers who gallantly fought during the Civil War. Tom's journey began with a faded scrapbook, a gift that sparked a relentless pursuit of truth. Through decades of meticulous research and community-driven efforts, he immortalized the Littleton brothers in granite, ensuring that their story endures along the Great River Road. His leadership in constructing the Toolesboro memorial exemplifies his commitment to honoring our past with dignity and respect. His unwavering dedication and selfless service to Louisa County's history resonate deeply with us all. I thank Tom Woodruff for his indomitable spirit and for reminding us that history, when cherished and honored, binds us together as a community and Nation. Congratulating Iowa Hawkeyes Participating in Summer Olympics

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and honor all the Iowa Hawkeyes who have qualified for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics. These incredible athletes, ranging from disciplines like wrestling, track and field, rowing, and basketball, embody the excellence and determination encouraged in Iowa City. The athletes competing have worked hard their entire lives for this opportunity, the opportunity to represent their countries in the sport that they love while the entire world watches them. Their journey to this global stage exemplifies the dedication and resilience that define what it means to be a Hawkeye. As they prepare to represent Iowa and showcase their skills before the world, let us unite in cheering them on and sending our support. May their performances inspire future generations of athletes. Bring home the gold. As always, go Hawkeyes. Mr. Speaker, I wish a very boisterous happy birthday to my sister Mari-Eleanor Martino.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Chair, had I been present, I would have voted AYE on Roll Call No. 327. Stated against:

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise this morning to recognize the Road of Honor leading to the Keokuk National Cemetery in Keokuk, Iowa. This week, we are scheduled to have a groundbreaking for the new Road of Honor, which comes after my office secured almost a million dollars in Federal funding to repave it. When local and State officials were unable to get the funding, my office was able to deliver Federal Community Project Funding to repave the road so that Iowans could properly honor our departed veterans. This was made possible after Iowa State Senator Jeff Reichman and Representative Martin Graber first brought the project to my attention. I also thank Keokuk Mayor Kathie Mahoney for her involvement as the Federal funds were disbursed. As a 24-year Army veteran, it is a privilege and an honor to recognize the Road of Honor and Keokuk National Cemetery on the House floor. I look forward to visiting again soon to honor the veterans that are buried there. In Washington, I will continue to fight to deliver results for our veterans and for Iowa. May God bless our troops and our veterans, and may God always bless America.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague, General Bergman, for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today during PTSD Awareness Month to honor the millions of Americans, including thousands of veterans, who have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. As a 24-year Army veteran and one of 82 military veterans serving in Congress, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work on legislation that helps veterans diagnosed with PTSD get the care and support they need. One example is the Veterans Care Act, a bill I introduced that would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct and support research on the effectiveness and safety of certain forms of cannabis and cannabis delivery for veterans diagnosed with PTSD. As the chairwoman of the Health Subcommittee of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee along with General Bergman, I have also been able to host several key hearings and roundtables where we discussed effective treatment for PTSD, including emerging breakthrough therapies with psychedelic-assisted therapy. I have also passed the VIP Act, or Veterans in Parks Act, which allows lifetime passes to our national parks for veterans, Gold Star family members, and even Active-Duty military because we know of the meditative qualities and healing qualities that can come about through outdoor activity and work within nature. For far too long, society has focused on the negative impacts of trauma and struggles caused by PTSD, especially among our veterans. It has reached a point where being labeled as someone with PTSD has become debilitating. While it is crucial to recognize these challenges and get appropriate care, it is equally important to reduce stigma and offer more hope to those diagnosed. If you are someone with PTSD, I want you to know that you are not any less of a person because of your diagnosis. You are not a burden. Being diagnosed with PTSD isn't the end of your story. There is a pathway to extraordinary growth and transformation in your life. As a veteran serving in Congress, I am dedicated to ensuring that you understand that and receive the treatment you need to continue living your life to the fullest. God bless our veterans, and God bless General Bergman for bringing this to the attention of Congress and America. Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month is a time to heighten awareness about the disease and to show our support for the one in nine people aged 65 and older who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. My mother was one of those. Over 66,000 Iowans and nearly 7 million Americans are victims of this disease. As a doctor myself, I have advocated for affordable healthcare and doing everything we can to make medical research possible and to make medical research transferred into action. I am committed to working on legislation that ensures Americans impacted by Alzheimer's disease receive the care they deserve, and I call upon my fellow Members of Congress to remember those who have Alzheimer's and their families during this month and join me in the fight to end Alzheimer's. Presidential Scholars

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Andrew Dong from West High School in Iowa City, Iowa, for being named a 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholar. Andrew is one of 161 students from across the Nation being recognized for their remarkable academic achievements, contributions to their community, and success in fine arts. In his application, Andrew highlighted the incredible work he has done volunteering with mental health professionals and assisting them in developing guidelines for educators across the State of Iowa. As the youngest person in Iowa to be certified in Mental Health First Aid, Andrew is passionate about ensuring our communities have the tools necessary to face the ongoing mental health crisis head-on. With that, I would like my colleagues to join me in celebrating Andrew and his amazing achievements and wishing him all the best in his future endeavors. Floods

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to the recent floods impacting Iowa currently. After the recent supercell storms, Iowa suffered widespread damage, debris, and record flooding. Some areas received up to 15 inches of rain, and at least 1,900 properties were impacted, with hundreds destroyed. Over the weekend, at least 250 water rescues were conducted. Rivers all across Iowa will be impacted with extra water moving downstream and cresting to come. With the potential for possible more bad weather tomorrow and this weekend, the entire Hawkeye State is keeping a watchful eye. I urge my constituents to prepare in the event of flooding and bad storms impacting our communities. The entire Iowa delegation is working closely with Governor Reynolds and local officials during this difficult time. Finally, Madam Speaker, I am grateful to the first responders working around the clock to help Iowans in need. University of Iowa Boasts the Third Smallest Baby Born in the World

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Eilers family of Solon, Iowa. Emily and Ted Eilers are parents to Evelyn Eilers who was born at the University of Iowa in September of 2023. Evelyn was tied as the third smallest baby born in the world. Thanks to world-class care available at the University of Iowa, Evelyn was able to come home as the size of an average full-time newborn. Evelyn's survival and the survival outcomes for other extremely premature infants at the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children's Hospital are among the best in the world. This is yet another demonstration of the phenomenal care available to Iowans through the university's hospital. As a former doctor at the University of Iowa Hospital, I am proud to celebrate the incredible work and the recent homecoming of Evelyn Eilers, and, more importantly, support a culture of life. God bless the Eilers family. Congratulating University of Iowa Track and Field Athletes

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the seven athletes from the University of Iowa track and field program on their appearance at the Olympic trials this past weekend. I would like to give a special congratulations to Kalen Walker, the brother of one of our legislative interns. Kalen Walker is a three- time, all-American record-holding athlete who competed in the 100-meter dash at the semifinal round at the Olympic trials this weekend. Kalen is from rural Iowa and graduated from Eddyville-Blakesburg- Fremont High School in 2020. He attended Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa, and then transferred to the University of Iowa as a walk-on. Kalen embodies what it means to be a true, hardworking Iowan. He came to the University of Iowa to fulfill his dream of running as a Hawkeye, and this weekend was a step toward fulfilling his dream of being an Olympian. I am proud to congratulate him and his teammates on their honor of representing Iowa and America. As always, go Hawks.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, today we commemorate the 249th birthday of United States Army. On this day, the Second Continental Congress transformed a local rebellion into a war for independence by establishing the Continental Army, which today is the United States Army. One day after the Army was established, Congress appointed French and Indian War veteran George Washington to be the very first commander of the Army, and the rest is history. The Army's birthday is a day where we can express gratitude for the brave men and women who served and continue to serve in our Nation's oldest branch of the military. As one of 38 Army veterans currently serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, I am honored to recognize this historic milestone. One thing everybody knows about the U.S. Army is that, when duty calls, we will rise to the challenge. ``This We'll Defend.'' God bless our troops, Iowa, and God bless the United States of America. I also acknowledge that today, June 14, is Flag Day. Please remember and honor the values of our flag. I extend birthday wishes to President Donald Trump. Happy birthday, Mr. President.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, Representative Grothman, for yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Women Veterans Recognition Day, which is the anniversary of President Truman's signing of the Women's Armed Forces Integration Act, which allowed, for the first time, women to serve as regular members of the military. While only about one in six Americans serving in the Armed Forces are women, they are responsible for some of the most important accomplishments in military history. Whether it is the Hello Girls from World War I who connected the U.S. military's communications in imperative ways, the thousands of volunteer nurses who saved lives in the Vietnam war, or the hundreds of thousands of women currently in active service, women in the military are playing an active role in ensuring the safety of our Nation, and I was one of those as a 24-year Army veteran. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating all the brave women who have put their lives on the line for this incredible Nation we call home. Honoring Ronald Knoche

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of one of my constituents, Ronald Knoche, for being named a 2024 Top 10 Public Works Leader of the Year by the American Public Works Association. As the most prestigious national award in the public works profession, Ron and the other honorees are recognized for their professionalism, expertise, and personal dedication to improving the quality of life in their communities through the advancement of public works services during their career. Knoche has served Iowa City for 25 years. He joined the city as a civil engineer in 1999, was promoted to senior engineer in 2001, and the city engineer in 2003. In 2015, Knoche was promoted to public works director. In this role, Knoche oversees the city's engineering, equipment, resource management, streets, wastewater, and water divisions. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Ron. I am very proud of him. Johnson County Engineer

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Johnson County, Iowa, engineer, Greg Parker, on being named the 2024 Urban County Engineer of the Year by the National Association of County Engineers. Mr. Parker's career has spanned 40 years and earned him a reputation for being a national authority on pavement reconstruction. Mr. Parker and the Johnson County Secondary Roads Department are responsible for 915 miles of county highways and the 213 bridges and infrastructure they contain. As the department director, Mr. Parker oversees construction and year-round maintenance with 50 employees. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Greg Parker for winning this award and wishing him all the best as he continues to pave the way for all Iowans. Peace Corps Volunteers

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the seven amazing Peace Corps volunteers from Iowa's first district who are currently serving worldwide on behalf of our great Nation. By freely providing their various skill sets, such as healthcare, education, and peacekeeping in the world's developing nations, these volunteers are on the front lines of ensuring a better world for all of us. Despite the stresses and tribulations the job may provide, these seven heroes have a true unending passion for helping people. Furthermore, I would like to specifically congratulate two of our Peace Corps volunteers from Iowa's First Congressional District, Katheryn Peck and Kent Rice, for completing their tenure in the Dominican Republic on May 17, 2024, and returning home to Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating these incredible Peace Corps volunteers and wish them the best on their continued journeys. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, Representative Grothman, for yielding me time.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Chair, had I been present, I would have voted AYE on Roll Call No. 272. Amendment No. 49 Offered by Mr. Mills

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, as a 24-year Army veteran, I rise today in honor of the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a day etched in the annals of American valor and sacrifice. It was on the shores of Normandy that our brave troops, with hearts full of patriotism and determination, stormed the beaches to confront tyranny head-on. Let us remember those courageous souls who gave everything for the cause of freedom. Their bravery and unwavering spirit embodies the very essence of what it means to be an American. As we reflect on this anniversary, let us reignite the flames of patriotism within our hearts. Let us stand united in our commitment to uphold the principles of liberty and justice for which they have fought so gallantly. Today, we honor their legacy by reaffirming our dedication to the ideals that made America great. Let us pledge to never falter in our defense of freedom and to always remember the sacrifices made on that fateful day. God bless America, and may we forever cherish the memory of our heroes.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, on June 3, 2024, and on June 4, 2024, I was unable to make it back to D.C. for votes. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 233; YEA on Roll Call No. 234; YEA on Roll Call No. 235; and YEA on Roll Call No. 236.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Iowa's very own Julie Zerwic, recipient of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's Advocate of the Year award. Julie Zerwic is a committed advocate for nursing education, currently serving as a professor and dean at the University of Iowa's College of Nursing. Passionately supporting both students and faculty, Dean Zerwic emphasizes the importance of strong leadership within the nursing profession. She ardently believes in nurses advocating for their patients, communities, and the profession itself. As a former nurse, I can testify to the importance of the dean conducting herself in these endeavors. Under Dean Zerwic's guidance, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Iowa has consistently ranked among the top 10 in the Nation by U.S. News and World Report for three consecutive years: 2022, 2023, and achieving an impressive number four ranking in 2024. I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing appreciation for Dean Zerwic's unwavering advocacy and in congratulating her on receiving the Advocate of the Year award. Rocket Challenge

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, today we celebrate the exceptional achievement of Maharishi School students moving on to the finals in the American Rocketry Challenge. Among 5,500 talented students competing, Maharishi's team has risen to the top, showcasing unparalleled dedication and skill. Their mission is no small feat, carting a large egg to 820 feet, maintaining flight for 43 to 46 seconds, and safely returning, but I am confident in their design and precision. The Maharishi students' rocket journey has been marked by hours of hard work, creative problem-solving, and an unwavering dedication to STEM excellence. Iowa's aerospace partners stand behind you, cheering you on. For those that are interested, there will be some demonstrations tomorrow in the Rayburn foyer. Madam Speaker, they are not just competing for prizes. They are shaping aerospace innovation. Once again, congratulations to the bright minds of the Maharishi School. Their achievements inspire us all. Best of luck to them in the national finals.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of my home State of Iowa being ranked the sixth overall State to live in. Scoring third in opportunity and in the top 10 for education, Iowa has proven that regardless of where you come from or where you are going, you can find success in the Hawkeye State. Looking for a great place to study? Iowa has some of the Nation's top schools. Want to buy a house and start a family? Iowa is one of the most affordable States to live in and a beautiful State to raise a family. Want to start a new career? Iowa is home to several booming industries, entrepreneurship flourishes, and we would be happy to have you. Iowa is historically known for being a farming State, but recently our State has emerged as one of the Nation's leaders in clean energy production. In Iowa, the American Dream is alive, well, and waiting for you. God bless the Hawkeye State. celebrating national teacher appreciation day

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Day, which took place this past Tuesday on May 7. America's teachers are heroes who take on the monumental task of shaping our Nation's future leaders with the utmost grandeur and grit. Growing up, we never forget those teachers who have left a marked impact on our lives and mentor us through the grueling process of maturation. As a matter of fact, I remember my second grade teacher, Ms. Tenniswood in Michigan, who helped me to know that I was special enough to one day achieve my dreams. Thanks to the tireless efforts of America's teachers, our upcoming generation stands poised to confront the complexities of the future with resilience and readiness. Iowa is home to over 35,000 teachers who play a key role in the future of our State. As we honor their invaluable contributions, let us unite in recognition of their dedication and pray for their continued success in nurturing the youth and steering the course of America's future. Together, let us commit to supporting and uplifting our educators who are the bedrock of our society. national nurses week