James (Jim) Moylan

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize former Governor Carl T.C. Gutierrez as an extraordinary son of Guam, who has been awarded one of Japan's highest imperial honors: the Order of the Rising Sun. This distinction, rarely given and never lightly, honors individuals whose lives reflect exceptional service and commitment to international friendship. Governor Gutierrez earned this recognition through decades of work strengthening the relationship between Guam and Japan--efforts rooted not only in policy but in humanity and compassion. During his tenure from 1995 to 2003, he helped deepen economic cultural ties that support thousands of families and reinforce Guam's role as a bridge between the United States and the Asian-Pacific region. We recognize former Governor Gutierrez for his lifetime of service, for strengthening the bonds between the people of Guam and Japan, and for reminding us that leadership at best is defined by humanity. The greatest honor of all is not a medal but the enduring friendship between nations and the lives impacted along the way. I thank Governor Gutierrez.

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Emelio Uy, a man whose contributions to Guam will be remembered for generations. Emelio was more than just a respected businessman. He was a community builder, a mentor, and a quiet force for good whose generosity touched families, organizations, and entire communities across our island. His leadership was never about titles. It was about people, about lifting others up, and about stepping forward whenever there was a need. Through his work with the Ayuda Foundation, the Lions Club, the Red Cross, and many other civic efforts, he showed us what it means to serve with humility and heart. He was also a pillar of Guam's Filipino- American community, strengthening cultural pride and supporting generations of leaders who credit him for guiding and encouraging them. Emelio leaves behind a legacy of compassion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the people of Guam. To his family, we extend our deepest condolences and our gratitude for sharing him with all of us. May we remember Emelio Uy not only for what he accomplished but how he lived--with kindness, integrity, and profound love for his community. May his memory continue to guide and inspire us. Recognizing Former Governor Carl Gutierrez

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable milestone, the 75th anniversary of Pacific Daily News, known across Guam for generations as simply PDN. Since its founding in 1950, PDN has chronicled the life of our community, documenting our triumphs, our trials, and everyday moments that define who we are. From Guam's postwar rebuilding to the growth of our civilian government, from typhoons and crises to celebrations and milestones, PDN has remained a constant and trusted source of information. It has ensured that Guam is not invisible. It has carried local voices to far corners of the world and connected our island to the broader community. For many beyond our shores, PDN has been their first window into life on our island. Behind every headline are dedicated reporters, photographers, editors, and staff who work under tight deadlines and challenging conditions to serve the public. Seventy-five years is a measure of trust earned, credibility built, and service rendered. I congratulate Pacific Daily News on this milestone and thank them for their enduring service to Guam. ``Long live''; ``Biba,'' PDN. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Emelio Uy

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Major Irenio Borja San Nicolas, as we approach the anniversary of his passing on April 7, 2025. Major San Nicolas lived a life defined by service--service to this Nation and to our beloved island of Guam. His story reflects a generation of individuals who stepped forward when called and carried that responsibility with quiet strength. A proud son of Guam, he was shaped by the values that define our island--respect for others, resilience in the face of hardship, and a deep sense of responsibility to family and community. These values guided him as he answered the call to serve in the United States Marine Corps. During his military career, he took on leadership roles that required not only skill, but trust. He served during the Vietnam era, demonstrating discipline, courage, and a steadfast commitment to those he led. Notably, Major San Nicolas made history as the first CHamorro commissioned officer to command Marines on Guam. This achievement reflects not only his professional excellence, but also the barriers he helped break and the path he helped pave for future generations of leaders from our island. Leadership in the Marine Corps is earned, not given and he earned that trust through integrity, capability, and a deep sense of duty. But what makes his legacy especially meaningful is that his service did not end when he returned home. Following his military career, he continued to serve the people of Guam. In Talo'fo'fo and beyond, he remained engaged in community and civic life, contributing in ways that strengthened the island he loved. His leadership was steady and often quiet--grounded not in recognition, but in responsibility. He represented a kind of leadership that is deeply felt across our communities--a reliable presence, someone who showed up, who contributed, and who led by example. Major San Nicolas' life reflects a broader story--one shared by many from Guam who served in uniform, returned home, and continued to give back. It is a story of humility, of resilience, and of a lifelong commitment to others. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded that service does not end after we are gone, it lives on in the values we uphold, in the communities we strengthen, and in the example we set for future generations. Major San Nicolas embodied that commitment. His life was one of purpose, discipline, and enduring service. His contributions-- both in uniform and at home--leave a lasting imprint on our island. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. We recognize that behind every life of service is a family that shares in that sacrifice. We hope they find comfort in knowing that his legacy continues to live on in the community he helped shape. Mr. Speaker, today we honor more than a memory, we honor a life that continues to guide us. With immense gratitude, we honor the legacy of Major Irenio Borja San Nicolas--a Marine, a leader, and a proud son of Guam.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pride to recognize a distinguished service member, a proven leader, and a proud daughter of Guam--Richelle Monique Calvo Esperanza--on the occasion of her promotion to Chief Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force. This selection represents one of the highest achievements within the enlisted force. It is a distinction earned by a select few--those who have demonstrated not only technical expertise, but sustained leadership, integrity, and the trust of those they serve alongside. Chief Master Sergeant Esperanza currently serves as the Senior Enlisted Leader for the 71st Force Support Squadron at Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma. In this role, she leads a team of over 140 personnel-- military, civilian, and contractors--supporting more than 7,000 Airmen and their families while managing millions of dollars in resources critical to mission readiness. Her responsibilities span everything from personnel and family support to education, readiness, and casualty services--work that directly impacts the strength and resilience of our force. But beyond the scope of her responsibilities is the journey that brought her here. Chief Master Sergeant Select Esperanza hails from Santa Rita, Guam. After graduating from Guam High School in 2007, she made the decision to serve--enlisting in the United States Air Force in April 2008. Over the past 18 years of service and counting, she has built a career marked by steady progression, increasing responsibility, and operational excellence. She has served at the squadron, group, and wing levels. She has deployed in support of Operations New Dawn, Inherent Resolve, and Spartan Shield, contributing directly to U.S. military operations abroad. She has also distinguished herself academically-- earning both a bachelor's and master's degree in management while completing the Air Force's most rigorous professional military education programs. Her record reflects not just competence, but excellence--recognized through numerous awards, including Senior Non- Commissioned Officer of the Year honors and a distinguished graduate distinctions throughout her career. But what makes this moment especially meaningful is what she represents. For Guam, a small island with a deep tradition of military service, leaders like Chief Master Sergeant Select Esperanza are a source of immense pride. She represents the values we hold close: service, humility, resilience, and a commitment to something greater than oneself. She represents the generations of families in Guam who have answered the call to serve. And she represents what is possible when talent, discipline, and opportunity come together. She is also grounded in family. She is married to Second Lieutenant Emery Esperanza, himself a prior enlisted Airman who recently earned his commission. Together, they are raising two children, Emelia and Emery, continuing a legacy of service and leadership. She is the daughter of Ricardo and Carmelita Calvo of Santa Rita, whose pride today is shared by the entire island of Guam. Mr. Speaker, at a time when our Nation depends on strong, capable leadership within our Armed Forces, the promotion of leaders like Chief Master Sergeant Select Esperanza sends a clear message--that excellence is honored, and that leadership matters. Her journey, from Guam to the highest enlisted rank in the Air Force, is not just a personal achievement. It is a reflection of the strength of our communities and the enduring contributions of Guam to the defense of our Nation. I congratulate Chief Master Sergeant Select Richelle Monique Calvo Esperanza on this extraordinary milestone. We thank her for her service, we honor her leadership, and we do so with immense pride as she continues to represent Guam and our Nation with distinction in the years ahead.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Marietta P. Vicente--affectionately known as Mayette--upon her retirement after 33 years of dedicated public service to the people of Guam through the Guam Waterworks Authority. Marietta began her career in public service 1993, at a time when the Guam Waterworks Authority operated as the Public Utility Agency of Guam, or PUAG. From those early days to the present, she built a career defined by professionalism, reliability, and a deep commitment to public service. For more than three decades, Marietta served with distinction in the Finance Division of the agency, ultimately retiring as Payroll Supervisor. In this critical role, she was responsible for ensuring that employees were compensated accurately and on time--an essential function for any organization, and particularly for a public utility that serves the entire island community. Behind every reliable public service system are individuals whose work often happens quietly, but whose contributions are indispensable. Payroll operations are a prime example of that reality. The work requires precision, accountability, and constant attention to detail, and Ms. Vicente carried out those responsibilities with dedication and care throughout her career. During her tenure, she also played an important role in modernizing the agency's payroll operations. She helped guide the transition to new financial and payroll systems, including JD Edwards World and later JD Edwards EnterpriseOne. These system upgrades strengthened operational efficiency, improved accountability, and enhanced internal controls within the organization--changes that continue to benefit the agency today. Her knowledge of the system and her commitment to excellence earned the respect of her colleagues and leadership alike. Over the years, she became a trusted resource within the Finance Division and an important part of the institutional knowledge that helps sustain effective public service. Ms. Vicente's story is also a reflection of Guam's diverse and resilient community. Originally from San Jose City in Nueva Ecija in the Philippines, she has made Guam her home for the past forty-four years. Today, she resides in the village of Yigo, where she has built both a career and a life rooted in service to our island. Her success in public service has been supported by the love and encouragement of her family. She is joined in celebrating this milestone by her husband, Arnoll M. Vicente; her children, Nicollette V. Velasco and Neal Keanu P. Vicente; and her father, Rosalino Paez. She also honors the memory of her late mother, Lilia Paez, whose guidance and values helped shape her life of dedication and service. After more than three decades of hard work and commitment, Ms. Vicente retired March 6, 2026. In retirement, she looks forward to traveling and spending more time with her family--an opportunity that is well deserved after so many years devoted to public service. Her career reminds us that the strength of our institutions rests on the dedication of individuals who work diligently behind the scenes to ensure that essential services continue to operate smoothly and reliably for the people they serve. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Marietta P. Vicente for her outstanding contributions to the people of Guam and to extend my sincere appreciation for her many years of service. I wish her and her family a happy, healthy, and fulfilling retirement.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for the introduction. I am very happy and pleased to be a cosponsor of this measure. As we know, human trafficking is modern-day slavery, Mr. Speaker, and traffickers abuse and exploit millions of victims, especially children, girls, and women, all for commercial gain. This is a serious problem around the globe, Mr. Speaker, and even here at home. We must do more to raise awareness of this crime. The U.S. Department of Labor is on the front lines of detecting human trafficking. In 2024, the National Human Trafficking Hotline's data showed that there were 21,865 victims, and that is only what we know was reported. Mr. Speaker, one in six endangered runaways is a likely victim of child sex trafficking. We have a moral and ethical obligation to empower Federal agencies to prevent, detect, and address these horrific crimes. This bipartisan, commonsense bill raises awareness of human trafficking and establishes effective and timely educational programs to train Department of Labor personnel. This bill establishes a framework for employees to assist law enforcement, requires reports to Congress on the scope of the issue, and ensures U.S. DOL personnel have the tools they need to detect forced labor and sexual exploitation when they investigate labor law violations. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to vote for this measure to help address, prevent, and crack down on this terrible practice.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, this bill is about empowering our residents to seek degrees that we need but are not available at home and to return home to strengthen our communities. I strongly urge my colleagues to support this bill, our students, and our community.

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend, Chairman Walberg, for yielding to me. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Guam's students and strongly urge my colleagues to vote for my bill, H.R. 6472. This bill delivers a targeted approach to make college more affordable, strengthen workforce pipelines, and support critical national security efforts in the U.S. territories. H.R. 6472 provides tuition rate guarantees to U.S. nationals who live in Guam, CNMI, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. High costs associated with education in the States, not ability, limit educational opportunities for students in the territories. None of our islands have doctorate, law, or medical degree programs. Lack of access to these programs leads to workforce shortages in critical sectors. Lowering barriers to access will lead to greater capacity building in the territories. Some examples of past folks are: Honorable Peter C. Siguenza, who attended California State University and returned home after law school to become Guam's first Chief Justice. Then there was the late Dr. Chris Perez, who went to UC San Francisco, who came home to be a good doctor for the island. There was also our first president of the University of Guam, Dr. Antonio Yamashita, who attended the University of North Carolina. We currently have leaders on our island, such as Dr. Enriquez, who is the president of our University of Guam. She attended the University of Maryland. We also have Dr. Aguon, who attended the University of Hawaii and is now running our Guam Memorial Hospital, and our Governor ``Lou'' Leon Guerrero attended UCLA. Every doctor and lawyer in Guam studied elsewhere, returned home, and has made an incredible impact on our community.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Judy Selk Flores, recipient of the Guam Council of the Arts and Humanities Agency's Lifetime Cultural Contribution Award, an artist whose lifework has shaped Guam's cultural landscape and preserved the soul of our island. Dr. Flores came to Guam as a child in 1957 and made this island her home. She learned the CHamoru language, immersed herself in our traditions, and devoted her life to preserving Guam's rich cultural identity. At a time when much of our heritage risked being lost, she chose to safeguard it through living, breathing art. Through batik and visual storytelling, she captured island life, family, and tradition, turning memory into something tangible that our people can carry forward. She did more than create art. She built community. As a founding member of the Guam Visual Arts Guild and the founder of Guahan Art, she opened doors for young artists, teaching them to have confidence, purpose, and pride in their work. Today, we honor not only an artist but a steward of heritage. Dr. Flores reminds us that culture endures because people choose to protect it, just as she has and continues to do every day.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Madam Speaker, I thank my friend, Chairman Cole, for the great work he has done on the appropriations. That is why I rise today in support of the measure before us. Madam Speaker, the Senate amendment preserves the bipartisan funding bills that this Chamber has agreed to while giving us the necessary time to come to an agreement on Homeland Security funding. We simply cannot allow our troops or Federal employees to miss another paycheck. If we fail to send this bill to the President's desk today, the shutdown will continue to drag on and limit access to the programs that Americans across the country rely on for healthcare, education, and national security. In Guam, where the enlistment rate is the highest in the Nation, many of our families rely on a timely paycheck for everyday needs. This bill strengthens support for our servicemembers and includes a 3.8 percent pay raise for all military personnel and continues the pay rate increases for our junior enlisted servicemembers. Madam Speaker, I strongly agree with and urge my colleagues to support this measure and to support the American people.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to wish a happy 90th birthday to Brigid Lukas and acknowledge her life of patriotism. Mrs. Lukas grew up in Great Brittan but came to the United States where she built a family and raised her four children. Her late husband Rimas also came to the United States as a young person, where he escaped communism and worked as an engineer for the Department of the Army. Together Brigid and Rimas are a testament to the American way of life. As Brigid celebrates her 90th birthday this month and looks forward to commemorating 44 years since becoming a naturalized U.S. Citizen, I wish her continued health and prosperity.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate a remarkable milestone, the 75th anniversary of Pacific Daily News, known across Guam for generations simply as PDN. For seventy-five years, PDN has chronicled life in Guam. Since its founding in 1950, it has stood as our island's paper of record, documenting our triumphs, our trials, and the everyday moments that define who we are as a people. PDN emerged in the postwar era, at a time when Guam was rebuilding, redefining itself, and finding its voice in the modern world. In those early years, the paper helped connect families and lay the foundation for a more engaged and informed public. As Guam moved toward greater self-government, as new institutions took shape, and as our island evolved, PDN was there, recording history right as it unfolded. PDN reported on the passage of the Organic Act, the growth of our civilian government, and the transformation of Guam from a war-scarred territory into a vibrant, modern community. It documented the rise of new industries, the opening of schools and hospitals, and the changing rhythms of island life. Page by page, year by year, PDN became a living archive of Guam's story. Through typhoons and tragedies, elections and celebrations, conflicts and recoveries, PDN has remained a constant and reliable source of information, reporting from the front lines often when conditions were difficult and information scarce. In those moments, PDN helped our growing community stay informed, connected, and grounded. At the same time, PDN has celebrated our joys. It has told the stories of our graduates and champions, our cultural festivals and community milestones. It has highlighted the achievements of our students, athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs. It has preserved the voices of our elders and the aspirations of our youth. PDN has helped ensure that Guam is not invisible. It has given our island a platform, a mirror, and at times, a conscience. It has carried local concerns into the public and helped connect Guam to the wider world. For many beyond our shores, PDN has been their first window into life on our island. Behind every headline is a team of dedicated professionals, reporters who chase the story, photographers who capture history in a single frame, editors who shape the narrative, and staff who work long hours to make sure each edition reaches readers. Their work often happens quietly, under tight deadlines and with limited resources, but its impact is felt across the island every day. Journalism is not easy work. It requires persistence, integrity, and a willingness to ask hard questions. It demands accuracy in moments of urgency and fairness in moments of disagreement. Over 75 years PDN has carried that responsibility on behalf of the people of Guam. In an era of rapid change, shifting media landscapes, and growing challenges for local journalism nationwide, PDN's endurance is a testament to both resilience and relevance. Seventy-five years in the industry is a measure of trust earned, credibility built, and service rendered. Today, we honor not only an institution, but the generations of people who sustained it. We honor the stories that have been told, the history that has been preserved, and the countless readers who have turned to PDN to understand their world. I congratulate Pacific Daily News on its 75th anniversary and thank them for their enduring service to our island. May PDN continue to inform, challenge, and serve our community for many years to come.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Warrant Officer Five Bernard Aguon of the District of Columbia National Guard, a native of Guam, as he concludes a lifetime of extraordinary service to our Nation. With more than 34 years of service across all three components of the United States Army, CW5 Aguon represents the very best of what it means to serve. Most recently, he served as the command chief warrant officer of the District of Columbia National Guard, where he was a trusted adviser to senior leaders and a steady voice in guiding complex decisions that affected the force. Throughout his career, he served in an extraordinary range of roles, from engineer and personnel commands to senior advisory positions, bringing clarity, professionalism, and technical mastery wherever he was called. Born and raised on Guam, CW5 Aguon's journey from our island in the Pacific to the highest levels of the National Guard is a source of great pride. He has strengthened our Army, supported countless soldiers, and brought honor to his family and his island. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful nation, I thank CW5 Aguon for his service, his sacrifice, and his enduring legacy.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine relations. In 1946, the Nation of the Philippines gained its independence and officially opened diplomatic relations with the United States. Since then, the U.S.-Philippine Alliance has evolved to become one of our most critical Pacific partnerships. The United States and the Philippines share deep historical and cultural ties. During the Second World War, Filipinos fought alongside American service members in a battle for freedom against the imperial Japanese military from the battlefields of Luzon to the shores of Leyte Gulf. Our shared sacrifice in defense of the Philippines led to one of our Nation's longest standing defense treaties in Asia, The Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty, signed August 1951. The foundational agreement set up the cornerstone for the U.S.-Philippine Alliance, ensuring an attack on one is an attack on both. Since 1951, our security cooperation has evolved and strengthened. In 2014, our two countries signed an Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, increasing the U.S. military's rotational presence to tackle new challenges in the West Philippine Sea. Our ties to the Philippines are more than just defensive, they are connected deeply by bonds of friendship and culture. More than 4 million people throughout the United States identify as Filipino. They serve in our armed forces, contribute to our healthcare system, and own and operate thousands of small businesses that support our economy. As we launch this 80th anniversary year, let us reaffirm our commitments to our shared democratic values, a free and open Indo- Pacific, and renewed prosperity for the peoples of the United States and the Philippines.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Erik Swanson upon his conclusion of service as superintendent of the Guam Department of Education. Dr. Swanson stepped into the role during a challenging period for public education on Guam. He brought a steady focus on students, accountability, and the responsibility that comes with leading an island-wide school system. During his tenure, he worked to address longstanding issues facing Guam schools while supporting educators, staff, and families who show up every day for our students. His leadership reflected a clear understanding that education is not just policy, but people. Public education on Guam carries unique challenges, and Dr. Swanson approached that responsibility with care and commitment. I thank Dr. Swanson for his service to Guam students and families, and I wish him well in the next chapter ahead.

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Mary Okada as she concludes her tenure as president of Guam Community College after many years of service to our island. Since 2007, Dr. Okada has served as president of the Guam Community College, becoming the first woman to lead the institution. Under her leadership, GCC strengthened its role as a pathway to workforce training, skilled trades, healthcare, and public service, helping students gain the skills they need to succeed and contribute to the broader community. She led with care and responsibility, ensuring strong financial stewardship, and building programs that respond to the realities of Guam's workforce and economy. The impact of her work is reflected in the thousands of students whose lives were shaped by the education and training they received at GCC. Guam is stronger because of her service and investment in our students. Mr. Speaker, I say: ``Thank you''; ``Si Yu'os Ma'ase''' to Dr. Okada for her leadership and for the opportunities she has created for generations to come. Recognizing Dr. Erik Swanson

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of the late Senator Carmen Artero Kasperbauer. Born in 1935, Carmen grew up during the Japanese occupation of Guam in World War II, an experience that shaped her deep sense of responsibility to her community and her island. She lived a life defined by service, first as a registered nurse, caring for others when they were most vulnerable, and later as a senator in the Guam Legislature, where she served two terms with professionalism and integrity. Her life spanned generations of change on Guam, from war and recovery to a steady life of service rooted in community. Guam has lost a matriarch, but her legacy of service lives on through her husband, Dr. Larry Kasperbauer, and her children and grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful island, I say ``a big thank you''; ``un dangkolo na si Yu'os ma'ase'.'' She will be deeply missed. Recognizing Dr. Mary Okada

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Colonel Reina ``Rei'' Serineo of the United States Air Force, a proud daughter of Guam, as she concludes her distinguished career in service to our Nation. For nearly two decades, Lieutenant Colonel Serineo embodied the very best of what it means to wear the uniform. As an air battle manager, she logged more than 2,000 flight hours, including hundreds in combat and combat support missions, where decisions made in seconds carried life and death consequences for those in harm's way. Across assignments in the United States, Europe, and the Indo- Pacific, she earned the trust of commanders and airmen alike, leading with precision, integrity, and care for those she served. Most recently, she helped shape the future of our Air Force through her work in the air combat command, guiding policies, training, and modernization. Mr. Speaker, Lieutenant Colonel Serineo's service brings great pride to Guam and to our entire Nation. I thank her for her leadership, her sacrifice, and her enduring legacy of excellence. Honoring the Life of Senator Carmen Artero Kasperbauer

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Erik Swanson upon the conclusion of his service as Superintendent of the Guam Department of Education. Leading a public school system is never simple, and on Guam, that responsibility carries added complexity. Dr. Swanson stepped into the role of Superintendent during a period marked by significant challenges, including resource constraints, staffing concerns, and the lasting impacts faced by students and educators alike. From the beginning of his tenure, Dr. Swanson understood that the work of public education is deeply personal. It affects not only classrooms, but families, communities, and the future of the island itself. He approached the role with a focus on responsibility, transparency, and support for those on the front lines of education. During his time as Superintendent, Dr. Swanson worked to address long-standing issues within the Guam Department of Education while maintaining focus on student learning and school operations. He supported educators and staff who carry the daily responsibility of teaching and caring for Guam's children, often under difficult circumstances. Serving as Superintendent of Education on Guam requires balancing many responsibilities at once. It means overseeing schools spread across the island, supporting thousands of students, and working closely with teachers, staff, and families, all while navigating limited resources and high expectations. Dr. Swanson approached this role with an understanding of its demands and a respect for the people who carry out the work of education every day. He recognized that progress often comes through persistence, cooperation, and steady attention to the needs of students and schools. He also understood the importance of collaboration. Dr. Swanson worked with parents, school leaders, and government partners to confront challenges facing the education system and to seek solutions that would benefit students across the island. His leadership reflected an understanding that progress in education requires cooperation, patience, and persistence. Public education on Guam plays a critical role in shaping opportunity and strengthening our community. Leading that system requires not only professional experience, but resilience and care. Dr. Swanson carried that responsibility with seriousness and respect for the people he served. Those who worked alongside him describe a leader who listened, remained engaged, and understood the weight of the decisions placed before him. While no tenure is without difficulty, Dr. Swanson's service reflected a commitment to doing the work and facing challenges directly. Mr. Speaker, Guam's educators and students deserve leadership that recognizes both the importance and the difficulty of public education. Dr. Erik Swanson answered that call during a demanding time. I thank him for his service to Guam's students, educators, and families, and I extend my best wishes in the next chapter ahead.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Colonel Reina ``Rei'' Serineo of the United States Air Force, a proud daughter of Guam, as she concludes a distinguished career in service to our Nation. For nearly two decades, Lt. Col. Serineo has embodied the very best of what it means to wear the uniform. She has served with distinction across continents and commands, in the air and on the ground, in moments of routine readiness and in times of real danger. Her career reflects not only operational excellence, but a deep commitment to leadership, mentorship, and the future of our Air Force. Lt. Col. Serineo entered the Air Force in June of 2005 after graduating from the University of Portland and commissioning through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. From the very beginning, she chose a path that demanded precision, judgment, and courage. As an Air Battle Manager, she became a master of one of the most complex and critical missions in modern warfare. Over the course of her career, she logged more than 2,000 flight hours aboard the E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System with more than 300 of those hours in combat and combat-support missions in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Counter-ISIS. These were not abstract missions. They were real-world operations in contested airspace, where decisions made in seconds carried life-and- death consequences for service members on the ground and in the air. Her assignments tell the story of a leader trusted at every level. Lt. Col. Serineo consistently stepped into roles of greater responsibility. She served as an instructor, a flight commander, a chief of standardization and evaluations, an assistant director of operations, and a director of staff. In each role, she set the standard, not only for mission execution, but for how leaders should treat their people. Most recently, as the Common Mission Control Center Functional Area Manager within Air Combat Command, she directed policy, operations, and training for the Battle Control Center weapon system. In this role, she helped shape the future of how our Air Force fights, leading teams across major commands, building consensus and vision. What makes Lt. Col. Serineo's career especially meaningful is not only what she accomplished, but how she accomplished it. She invested in young Airmen, modeled professionalism, and reminded those around her that Leadership is not about rank, but integrity and responsibility. Her educational achievements mirror that same drive for excellence. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, completed Squadron Officer School, and obtained a Master of Public Administration. She is a graduate of Air Command and Staff College. At every stage, she prepared herself not only to serve, but to lead wisely. Lt. Col. Serineo's decorations, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, the Air Medal, and the Air and Space Commendation Medal are symbols of a career defined by impact. But medals alone cannot capture the lives she influenced, the missions she safeguarded, or the trust she earned. As she transitions from active service, our Nation remains stronger because of her. The systems she helped shape, the Airmen she mentored, and the standards she set will endure long after this chapter closes. I thank Lt. Col. Serineo for her service, her sacrifice, and her leadership. She answered the call in moments of uncertainty and danger. She carried responsibility with grace and she left behind a legacy of excellence that will guide those who follow. May the next chapter of her life be filled with the same purpose, fulfillment, and success that defined her time in uniform.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of Carmen Artero Kasperbauer, whose life reflected a deep and enduring commitment to service and community. Born in 1935, Carmen grew up during one of the most difficult periods in Guam's history, the Japanese occupation of World War II. As a child, she witnessed hardship, fear, and sacrifice that shaped her understanding of responsibility and resilience at an early age. Like many families on Guam, hers faced extraordinary risk during the occupation. Their decision to help protect U.S. Navy radioman George Tweed was an act of quiet courage, one that reflected the loyalty of the CHamoru people during a time when such choices carried severe consequences. These experiences were not abstract history for Carmen; they were formative moments that guided her life's work. She chose a path of service as a registered nurse, dedicating herself to the care of others and to strengthening her community through compassion. For her, service was not simply just a career. It reflected her belief that service begins with showing up for people when they are most vulnerable. Her commitment to public service did not stop there. In 1979, she was elected to the Guam Legislature, where she served as a senator for two terms. At a time when women were still fighting for equal footing in political leadership, Carmen Kasperbauer brought both strength and humility to the legislative process. She was known not for grandstanding, but for her steadiness, her preparation, and her deep concern for the people she represented. As a senator, she believed that public service meant listening first and putting people ahead of politics. She did her work carefully, asked thoughtful questions, and focused on what would truly help the people of Guam. She carried into public office the same values she lived by every day--respect for others, responsibility to community, and a strong sense of duty. These values guided her decisions, whether she was serving in the Legislature, working as a nurse, or helping her neighbors. Those who knew her remember her as the person who always showed up, did the work, and never sought attention. Beyond her formal roles, Carmen remained an active voice in Guam's community life. In later years, she shared her firsthand experiences of the war, ensuring that the sacrifices of Guam's people were not forgotten, minimized, or rewritten. Her testimony helped remind future generations that Guam's history is inseparable from America's, and that our island's people paid a very real price for freedom. Carmen Kasperbauer passed away on Christmas Eve at the age of 90. Her life spanned generations of change on Guam, from war and recovery to a steady life of service rooted in community. Through it all, she embodied resilience, service, and quiet patriotism. Mr. Speaker, Guam is a small island, but its contributions to this Nation are immense. Her life is a powerful example of that truth. Guam has lost a matriarch, but her legacy of service lives on through her husband, Dr. Larry Kasperbauer, and her children. On behalf of a grateful island, a very big thanks to the Senator. She will be deeply missed.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Mary Okada as she concludes a remarkable chapter of service as President of Guam Community College, after many years dedicated to education, workforce development, and the people of Guam. Dr. Okada's leadership at Guam Community College has been historic. She became the first woman to lead the institution and went on to serve longer than any president before her. That continuity mattered. It provided stability, direction, and trust at a time when higher education was facing rapid change and increasing demands. Long before becoming president, Dr. Okada served Guam Community College in key financial and administrative roles. She also brought experience from the Guam Department of Education. Because of that background, she understood the institution not only from the classroom level, but from the operational side--how to manage resources, plan responsibly, and make decisions that would stand the test of time. Under her leadership, Guam Community College strengthened its role as Guam's primary engine for workforce training and career education. Programs expanded to meet the real needs of the island, preparing students for skilled trades, healthcare, public service, and emerging technical fields. These were not abstract academic offerings; they were pathways to stable jobs and stronger families. Dr. Okada placed a strong emphasis on financial responsibility and accountability. Through careful planning and disciplined management, Guam Community College maintained long-term fiscal stability and earned consistent confidence from auditors, policymakers, and the broader community. That kind of stewardship is not always visible, but it is essential to an institution's success. She also understood that education cannot exist in isolation. During her tenure, Guam Community College strengthened partnerships with government agencies, private employers, and regional organizations to ensure that training programs aligned with workforce demand. As a result, students left GCC better prepared to step directly into the workforce and contribute to Guam's economy. Dr. Okada served as a respected voice for Guam and the Pacific in national and regional education discussions. She represented the interests of island communities in conversations about access, opportunity, and workforce development, ensuring that Guam was not overlooked in broader policy discussions. Her leadership extended beyond a single campus. She served on accreditation bodies, education councils, and advisory boards, helping shape policies and standards that affect students well beyond Guam. Through this work, she elevated career and technical education and reinforced its importance as a respected and viable pathway. Those who worked with Dr. Okada describe her as thoughtful, steady, and deeply committed to students. She led with consistency and care, focused not on short-term recognition, but on building systems that would continue to serve students long after her tenure. As she steps away from her role at Guam Community College, her impact is evident in the thousands of students whose lives were shaped by the education and training they received. Her legacy is reflected not only in programs and facilities, but in opportunity created and futures strengthened. Mr. Speaker, Guam Community College plays a vital role in our island's success, and Dr. Okada's leadership helped ensure that a role was carried out with purpose, responsibility, and vision. I thank Dr. Okada, for her years of service and for the lasting contributions she has made to Guam and its people--past, present, and future.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Warrant Officer Five Bernard Aguon of the District of Columbia National Guard, a proud son of Guam, for a lifetime of extraordinary service to our Nation. With more than 34 years of collective service across all three components of the United States Army, CW5 Aguon represents the very best of what it means to serve. His career is defined not only by longevity, but by impact, by a steadfast commitment to solving problems, building systems, and ensuring that the men and women who serve our country are supported with professionalism and care. Most recently, CW5 Aguon served as the sixth Command Chief Warrant Officer of the District of Columbia National Guard. In this role, he was the top Army Warrant Officer advisor to the Commanding General, the Adjutant General, and the Land Component Commander. He was relied upon as a trusted counselor to commanders at every level, called upon to bring clarity to complex challenges and to guide decisions that affect the force. Before assuming this role, he served at the highest levels of the National Guard as the G1 Senior Personnel Advisor within the Human Resource Information Systems Division. There, his work helped shape the future of how the Army manages its people, a responsibility that reached far beyond any single unit or command. Throughout his career, CW5 Aguon served in an extraordinary range of positions. From Engineer Platoon Sergeant to Warrant Officer Recruiter; from Unit Administrator to Army Band Commander; from Education Services Manager to Personnel Systems Advisor--his service reflects rare breadth and depth. He supported Engineer, Infantry, Personnel, and Recruiting commands, and in each role, he brought the same steady leadership and technical mastery. Perhaps most notably, CW5 Aguon was inducted into the U.S. Army Adjutant General Corps Wall of Fame in 2023 as a Distinguished Member of the Corps. This honor recognized his pivotal role in developing, testing, deploying, and sustaining the Army's Integrated Personnel and Pay System. This platform now supports Soldiers across the entire force, ensuring accuracy, accountability, and efficiency in how the Army manages its people. That contribution alone will shape the Army for generations. His decorations, including the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Action Badge, and Army Staff Identification Badge, reflect a career defined by excellence. But as with all great leaders, his true legacy is not found in ribbons or medals. It is found in the systems he built, the soldiers he guided, and the trust he earned. Beyond the uniform, CW5 Aguon has continued to serve. He has been a leader within the Adjutant General Corps, a life member of multiple professional associations, and the President of the Guam Society of America, remaining deeply connected to the island he proudly calls home. Born and raised on Guam, he now resides in Northern Virginia with his wife Jennifer and their four children: Rocco, Rio, Aurora, and Andre. His journey from our small island in the Pacific to the highest levels of the National Guard is a powerful reminder of the reach and resilience of those who come from Guam and choose to serve something greater than themselves. CW5 Aguon's career stands as a testament to quiet leadership, technical excellence, and unwavering dedication. He has strengthened our Army, supported countless soldiers, and brought honor to his family and his island. On behalf of a grateful Nation, and with great pride, I thank him for his service, his sacrifice, and his enduring legacy.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Congressman Doug LaMalfa, a dedicated public servant who spent his career standing up for rural America and the communities he called home. A fourth-generation rice farmer from northern California, he brought a deep understanding of hard work, responsibility, and service into public life. Those values guided him as he served in the California State Assembly, the State senate, and later in the United States House of Representatives. In Congress, he was a strong and respected voice for agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. His colleagues recognized that commitment when he was unanimously elected chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus. I had the honor of working alongside him as a colleague and a friend on the Natural Resources Committee, where his connection to the land and the people he represented was always clear. His work strengthened rural communities and left a lasting mark on policies that affect them. My thoughts are with his loved ones and the people of northern California. May we honor his memory by continuing the work he cared so deeply about.