James (Jim) Moylan

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor Sergeant Major Juan Ogo Blaz, a proud son of Guam who sadly passed away on September 3, 2024. Sergeant Major Blaz served with the 82nd Airborne Division in Vietnam where he experienced intense combat and served gallantly. During a 1969 incident, Sergeant Major Blaz' platoon came under attack, instantly incapacitating the platoon leader. Sergeant Major Blaz took immediate command of his unit and moved to drag other wounded men into positions of safety. While evacuating the wounded, Sergeant Major Blaz himself was injured in his right shoulder but refused medevac at that moment. The platoon continued receiving fire from enemy bunkers, and when close air support arrived, they struggled to place rockets on target. Despite his injuries, Sergeant Major Blaz made a series of solo charges at enemy positions marking them with smoke for attack by aircraft. Only once these enemy positions were neutralized did Sergeant Major Blaz accept medical care. Based on these actions, Sergeant Major Juan Ogo Blaz has earned himself a place among the pantheon of Guam's heroes. His life and military career stand as an example of patriotism and the people of Guam will always be proud of his legacy. Although in his life Sergeant Major Blaz was only awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions in Vietnam. As honorable as this distinction holds, many would agree that his acts of valor mirrored those throughout the Nation who were recognized with the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest of honors bestowed to military heroes. Since the start of my term, I have prioritized ensuring that Sergeant Major Blaz and two other Guam heroes, who also qualify for the Congressional Medal of Honor for their acts of heroism from the Vietnam conflict, are indeed recognized so that a chapter spanning nearly six decades would finally be close to a conclusion. Honoring Congressional Medal of Honor Recipients

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, and I am happy to share that earlier this year an amendment I was able to offer was successfully included in the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which would award the Congressional Medal of Honor to Sergeant Major Juan Ogo Blaz, Army Command Sergeant Martin Manglona, and the late Army Specialist Joseph Perez. I was even more humbled when I saw the joy in the eyes of Sergeant Major Blaz when I shared the news in person and advised that we are almost there. Sadly, the Sergeant Major passed away, and while he may not be here with us to accept his much-deserved Congressional Medal of Honor, if language remains in the final version of the NDAA, he will be here in spirit. More importantly, he will be smiling down on the island and Nation which he proudly and faithfully served. I am committed to getting this job done. Mr. Speaker, I ask that in these historic Halls, I would like to take this time to ask for a moment of silence to honor the late Sergeant Major Juan Ogo Blaz, a man of family, faith, patriotism, and a true hero of this Nation. May he rest in peace.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the following letters in support of awarding the Medal of Honor to three Guam natives who served in the Vietnam War. Call to Action: Support Medal of Honor for Guam Veterans As veterans and residents of Guam, we have a unique opportunity to support three of our own who have displayed extraordinary valor in service to our nation. Delegate James Moylan has introduced amendments to the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to authorize the President of the United States to award the Congressional Medal of Honor (MOH) to: CSM Martin Manglona, U.S. Army Retired SGM Juan Ogo Blaz, U.S. Army Retired SPC4 Joseph Meno Perez, U.S. Army Retired (Medical) These three veterans, all of whom served in the Vietnam War, have already been awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC), the U.S. Army's second highest honor. However, they have never been given a fair chance at being considered for the MOH, despite their actions mirroring those of other soldiers who have received this prestigious award. Why This Matters No other veteran from Guam or the Marianas has ever been awarded the MOH. SPC4 Perez absorbed the explosion of a hand grenade to save his battalion, an act of valor that has earned the MOH for others. SGM Blaz and CSM Manglona exemplified bravery that saved the lives of those within their battalion. These veterans endured many indignities due to their ethnic backgrounds yet persevered to serve with distinction. How You Can Help We urge all veterans and residents of Guam to sign this statement in support of Delegate Moylan's amendments to authorize the MOH for these three heroes. By standing together, we can ensure that their bravery and sacrifice are properly recognized, and that this injustice is finally corrected. Please sign below. Together, we can make a difference and honor the legacy of these brave sons of the Marianas. Anthony Taijeron. Corina Ballesta. Glenn Manglona. Hon. Mike Rogers, Chairman, House Armed Services Committee, Transmitted via Delegate James C. Moylan. Hafa Adai Chairman Rogers: We write in hopes that as an important member of the U.S. House of Representatives, with full voting privileges, you will support the effort from Guam Del. Jim Moylan to award the Congressional Medal of Honor to three of America's bravest soldiers, at long last. The valor displayed by CSM Martin Manglona (U.S. Army Ret.), SGM Juan Ogo Blaz (U.S. Army Ret.), and SPC4 Joseph Meno Perez (U.S. Army Ret.) saved the lives of their fellow soldiers and should be honored with the highest distinction available to America's men and women in the armed forces. Utilizing the National Defense Authorization Act to accomplish these awards is justified when considering all three of these men displayed their acts of heroism during the Vietnam War, a conflict that started to involve ground troops from the United States nearly 60 years ago. This legislative avenue is also prudent when considering the undeniable valor shown by these men--documented as recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross. SGM Blaz charged into enemy fire over and over again to save men from another platoon, all while knowing American forces were outmanned and outgunned at an enemy base camp. CSM Manglona fought day and night in a jungle conflict, rescuing and resupplying troops despite being injured himself. SPC4 Perez, who passed away in 2006, seized a grenade and used his own body to shield his fellow soldiers from the blast, miraculously surviving the explosion. We also believe it is important to share that these three men were part of the first generation of CHamoru people who were granted American citizenship through the enactment of the Organic Act of 1950. They repaid this historic act of Congress with fearlessness, fidelity, and faith--traits that have become the hallmark of the generations of Pacific Island veterans who followed them. We sincerely pray that, given all of this perspective from fellow lawmakers and civil servants, you agree these three soldiers deserve to be the first generation of Mariana Islanders who are recognized with the highest honor the United States bestows to its defenders of democracy. Si Yu'os ma'ase (With thanks), Tina Rose Muna, Ma'ase Barnes (D), Vice Speaker, 37th Guam Legislature, Chairwoman, Committee on Federal, Foreign & Regional Affairs. Frank F. Blas Jr. (R), Minority Leader, 37th Guam Legislature, Vice Chair, Committee on Federal, Foreign & Regional Affairs. Joe S. San, Agustin (D), Roy A.B. Quinata (D), William A. Parkinson (D), Dwayne San Nicolas (D), Jesse A. Lujan (R), Christopher M. Duenas (R), Thomas J. Fisher (R), Senators, 37th Guam Legislature.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, as a Pacific Islander, I wish to recognize the significance of June 12 as Philippines Independence Day and the relationship that the U.S. and the Philippines share. As a founding member of the United Nations and a member of many international global security organizations, the Philippines has long been a bastion of freedom in the Pacific as a close friend of the United States. It is well known that the horrors of World War II affected the entire world. In the Pacific, many island nations and territories were conquered by the Imperial Japanese forces and many suffered under their occupation. In the face of such harsh conditions, Pacific nations like the Philippines and territories like Guam preserved an unbreakable spirit that could not be rivaled. In 1945, Filipino guerrilla fighters, with the help of Allied forces, broke free of their shackles and forced their occupying forces away, despite 4 years of atrocities. Ever since then, the Philippines has been a bastion of freedom and an integral part of keeping the world safe. June 12, the day Emilio Aguinaldo declared independence from Spain in 1898, represents more than just a free Philippines. It demonstrates to the world that an independent nation can withstand whatever challenges come its way. Yet, because of their unwavering commitment to the principles of freedom and democracy, the Philippine Government and people face daily harassment from the People's Republic of China. As the PRC continues to expand its military presence within the region, Pacific regions like the Philippines need our support. As gray zone attacks, like breaches of exclusive economic zones, cyber warfare, and maritime militias in the South China Sea, continue to increase, U.S. support for our friends in the Philippines is paramount to securing the Indo-Pacific. With the Philippines Independence Day this Wednesday, recognizing the Philippines' ongoing fight for freedom is the first step for securing the region and deterring aggression within the region. In light of such an important event and day, I wish a happy Independence Day to our friends in the Philippines who just crossed into the 12th of June, as well as an early happy Independence Day to those who celebrate in the United States. As co-chair of the U.S.-Philippines Friendship Caucus, I thank my colleagues whose continued support makes our alliance with the Philippines strong. Your support for H. Res. 837, Reaffirming the ties between the United States and the Philippines, as well as a resolution I will be introducing today to commemorate Philippines Independence Day, is vital for maintaining a free Pacific. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my fellow Members of Congress to cosponsor these two resolutions, and I wish a happy Independence Day to our friends in the Pacific.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Police Week. As a Nation, we pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who have lost their lives while performing their duties. We honor their commitment, bravery, and selflessness in protecting and serving our communities. The sacrifices made by these officers extend far beyond their own lives, affecting the lives of their spouses, children, and extended family members who will forever carry the weight of their loss. We are thankful for the service they gave, the courage they exhibited, and the example they set. We honor their legacy and commitment to protecting and serving communities across the Nation. As the crime rates seem to skyrocket across the Nation, including in my district, the territory of Guam, our police officers' duties become even more critical to every one of our jurisdictions. National Police Week gives us the chance to show our gratitude to those officers who continue to safeguard our streets and neighborhoods. Pictured next to me are several officers from the Guam Police Department who serve as the backbone of our island's fight against crime. It is not uncommon for them to respond to calls with little to no information on what they are walking into, yet they do so with courage. Additionally, our police department has been quite understaffed to combat the level of crime we are experiencing, yet they still manage to provide effective service and public safety. This is why we have submitted CPF requests for patrol cars, mobile commands, and other necessities to better equip our men and women in blue. Our officers work long hours, put their lives on the line, and are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure our island residents are okay. Often this is a challenging job that takes a toll on one's physical and mental state, but I am here to ensure that they are recognized and appreciated for their service and sacrifice. Today and every day we honor their commitment, bravery, and selflessness in protecting and serving our communities. Mr. Speaker, I thank the men and women in blue. Paying Tribute to Dr. Ralph Guerrero Sablan

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to an influential figure from my district who has made extraordinary contributions to the field of medicine, the late Dr. Ralph Guerrero Sablan. Dr. Sablan sadly left this Earth several weeks ago and was well known throughout Guam as a talented physician through his exceptional skills, compassionate care, and unwavering dedication to his patients. Dr. Sablan became interested in medicine after experiencing a life- threatening situation early in life. His uncle, Dr. Ramon Sablan, who was the first Chamorro physician, saved his life. This incident instilled in him a lifelong passion for pursuing a career in medicine. Upon completing medical school, Dr. Sablan joined the United States Navy. He was stationed at the U.S. Naval Hospital in San Diego and provided medical services at Camp Pendleton. He was soon transferred to the U.S. Naval Hospital on Guam. From 1968 to 1969, Dr. Sablan was deployed to Vietnam where he served in Da Nang and Saigon. He received the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Navy Unit Commendation. Upon request from Delegate Antonio B. Won Pat, Dr. Sablan was reassigned to U.S. Naval Hospital in Guam in 1970. After 20 years of service, Dr. Sablan retired from Guam's U.S. Naval Hospital. In his last tour of duty, he served as the executive officer and chief of clinical services. Following that, he practiced an additional 30 years as the sole dermatologist for Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Micronesia. As a skilled and distinguished physician on the island of Guam, Dr. Sablan has been a shining example of loyal devotion to duty and service. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor him today and pay tribute to his exemplary military service, leadership, and life's work to the people of Guam. May he rest in peace.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, the people of Guam would like to congratulate and recognize Admiral John Aquilino, call sign ``LUNG.'' Admiral Aquilino began his career as a midshipman at the U.S. Navy Academy. Upon graduating in 1984, he would go on to receive his aviator wings. Over his four decades of service in the U.S. Navy, he performed his duties with distinction. From his first fighter squadron assignment to commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, he has stood a most commendable watch. As the admiral stood his last watch as commander of the U.S. Indo- Pacific Command, he ensured 375,000 servicemembers and civilian personnel maintained a bias toward action and excellence. This was especially the case in his service to the land of America's first sunrise, Guam. During his tenure as INDOPACOM commander, he led the establishment of the Joint Task Force Micronesia and continually advocated for the Guam Missile Defense System. His efforts ensured the people of Guam know that the Defense Department is committed to defending the homeland and our allies globally. As the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command welcomes Admiral Paparo, we would like to take time to thank Admiral Aquilino and his family for their support, advocacy, and commitment to the Navy and our Nation. Today, we take pause to witness this shipmate go ashore for the final time. May God bless Admiral Aquilino. We wish him fair winds and following seas. Hooyah. Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, as the Nation celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I proudly rise to recognize my community, the island of Guam. Over 7,000 miles away from the U.S. mainland resides a proud community of Chamorros, Filipino Americans, Korean Americans, Micronesians, and an array of other ethnicities. We are a melting pot of different cultures and backgrounds united by our shared values and beliefs. At the core of it all lies ``inafa maolek,'' which means ``restore harmony'' or ``make good.'' The concept of inafa maolek plays a significant role within our Asian-American and Pacific Islander community on Guam. This cultural value encourages community members to uplift one another, take care of each other, and work toward a common goal of unity and harmony. As Guam's Representative in Congress, I am committed to ensuring that the voices and perspectives of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are heard on the national stage. During this month, may we continue to pay tribute to the achievements and invaluable contributions of over 50 ethnic groups speaking more than 100 languages and dialects. Let us honor the rich diversity of cultures, traditions, and contributions that the AAPI community has woven into American history. To my community back home and fellow islanders on the mainland, I extend my warmest wishes during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Mayor John Cruz as he serves his final term representing the village of Hagatna after almost two decades. Before becoming the mayor of Guam's capital, Cruz faithfully served the government of Guam for 25 years. His tenure shows his commitment to the people of Guam has been unwavering since the beginning. He has been a strong advocate for the island and a champion of public service. Present day, Cruz is known by many of his constituents for his beautification efforts in his village, ensuring Guam's special capital remains a cultural and historical hub. Most importantly, Cruz is a family man, devoted Catholic, and reliable mayor who puts his constituents first. I thank Mayor Cruz for his dedication to the people of Hagatna. His leadership has been instrumental in making the village what it is today. I wish him the very best in retirement, and I am certain his legacy will be an inspiration to all future leaders to come. Honoring Dr. Vincent Duenas

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor a remarkable individual who has made significant contributions to the field of medicine, Dr. Vincent Duenas. His deep passion for healing and his tireless dedication to patient care has made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals in my community, the island of Guam. As he retires from his position, I thank him for 45 years of service at the Guam Memorial Hospital Authority. In addition to his distinguished career as an internal medicine doctor, he has also held the titles of GMH's associate hospital administrator of medical services and medical director of respiratory therapy, among many other positions. One of the most remarkable aspects of Dr. Duenas' career is his exceptional ability to provide compassionate care. He has fostered an environment where patients can feel heard, understood, and supported. Aside from his time in the medical field, Dr. Duenas also served our Nation in uniform for 20 years. He was a member of the Guam Army National Guard, ultimately retiring with the rank of colonel. Dr. Duenas' accomplishments and contributions to medicine are truly inspiring. His dedication, expertise, and passion have made a positive impact on countless lives in Guam. Today, we honor Dr. Duenas and wish him the very best in his retirement. I am certain his legacy will continue to inspire future doctors to come.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to emphasize the importance of supporting our ally, the Philippines, as they stand on the front lines of China's gray zone warfare in the Philippine Sea. The U.S. needs to further commit to its security cooperation efforts with our friends in the Philippines. Since increasing Philippine foreign military financing in 2022, we have drastically improved their ability to counter regional threats. Madam Speaker, we can do more. Our Philippine allies are harassed and intimidated daily. This includes the use of high-pressure water cannons against civilian Philippine fishing vessels in their own waters. To show our support, I introduced, with Bobby Scott, H. Res. 837, Reaffirming the Ties Between the United States and the Philippines. Funding our allies is simple math, dedicating $500 million in 1 year ensures the protection of nine critical military bases and ports protecting 11 million Filipino citizens across 300,000 square kilometers. The Philippine Department of National Defense has a storied record of military operations planning with our USINDOPACOM leaders and to meet our future fight with force. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague, Mr. Issa, for submitting this amendment.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to honor and recognize the Guam Chamber of Commerce who this year are celebrating their 100th anniversary. The Guam Chamber of Commerce has and continues to be the voice of economic growth in Guam. An advocate for enhancement of small businesses, an organization which promotes opportunities for employers and employees alike, an association of like-minded business entities focused on improving industries and a leadership which expands on professionalism, the Guam Chamber of Commerce is an icon of commerce within the Marianas and Pacific region in general. On behalf of the House of Representatives, I would like to congratulate president, Catherine Castro; chairman of the board, Ernie Galito; and board of directors of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, along with hundreds of businesses and organizations who comprise of their membership on the celebration of their 100th anniversary. We thank them for fostering commerce activity in Guam over the past 10 decades and look forward to decades more of their dedication toward our island's economic growth. Recognizing Melissa Savares

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Mayor Melissa Savares as she serves her final term as mayor of Dededo, Guam. For close to two decades, Melissa has dedicated herself to the betterment of families, youth, and ``the elderly,'' ``manamko,'' residing across Guam's largest village. Savares' history of service includes her time as president of the Mayors' Council of Guam, a board member of the Guam Community Health Centers, a commissioner on the Serve Guam Commission-AmeriCorps program, and a member of the Civilian-Military Task Force, among other things. Mayor Savares is a powerhouse in her community and is widely known across the island for her heart, for public service, and her efforts in preventing crime in the village. Under her leadership, the Dededo Municipal Planning Council has sponsored youth sports teams and initiatives such as Youth Drug-Free Summer Basketball League, Student Robotics, and Real World Design Challenge, to name a few. I would like to thank Mayor Savares for her commitment to the village of Dededo and wish her the very best in retirement. Her departure from the office would undoubtedly be felt, but I am certain she has laid a solid foundation for continued growth and development in Dededo to come.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Madam Speaker, I rise in recognition of Mayor Ernest Chargualaf, who is retiring this year after over a decade of public service. Having been elected in 2008, Mayor Chargualaf holds the distinction of being the mayor of the southernmost village of Guam, the village of Malesso. Mayor Chargualaf's history of service dates back to his time working for the Government of Guam. A lifelong public servant, Mayor Chargualaf was previously the Youth Center Supervisor with the Department of Parks and Recreation and held several positions at the Public Defender Corporation. A few of his accomplishments during his tenure include: securing over 200 new crypts at the cemetery, completing the long-awaited land exchange for 32 families in the Land for the Landless program, repairing the community center, dedicating and renaming the pier park as the Malesso Veterans Sons & Daughters Pier Park, and the placement of four government lots behind the mayor's office. Present day, Mayor Chargualaf is known for his leadership abilities, generosity, and his tenacity in advocating for the people of Malesso. He and his team continue to commit their time to ensuring there are programs for the elderly and sports activities for the youth. I will certainly remember him as a gifted public servant who could make a village a family and carry out the spirit of ``harmony,'' ``inafa' maolek.'' I would like to personally thank Mayor Chargualaf for his unwavering dedication and commitment to Malesso and its residents. I wish him the best in his retirement and thank him for his many years of service. I am confident his legacy will inspire future leaders to come. ``Hooray,'' ``Biba,'' Mayor Chargualaf. ``Hooray,'' ``Biba,'' Malesso.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize and celebrate the 70th anniversary of a local TV station in my district, KUAM News. KUAM News has been broadcasting locally since 1954, providing the community with accurate and timely news coverage on local events, crime, education, and more. They have been a trustworthy and reliable news source for many of my constituents. This confidence was earned through shedding light on important stories that may have otherwise gone unnoticed and giving a voice to those in need. Aside from its news coverage, KUAM has demonstrated excellence in community service. As an integral part of their mission, KUAM actively engages in charity drives and initiatives aimed at raising awareness for causes across the island. I wish a happy 70th anniversary to KUAM. May they have many more years as being one of Guam's trusted news sources.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mayor Paul McDonald of Agana Heights as he serves his last term representing his beloved village. Being born and raised in Agana Heights, Mayor McDonald has devoted himself to the betterment of his village over the course of eight consecutive terms in office. He has earned the respect of his constituents through his hard work and commitment to deterring crime in Agana Heights and through his beautification efforts in his village. Mayor McDonald serves as a unifying force within the community, spearheading numerous initiatives, services, and events that foster cohesion and progress. His impact extends beyond the confines of Agana Heights, as evidenced by the 19-year tenure as president of the Association of Pacific Island Local Government. He attributes his accomplishments to the enduring influence of his late father, Charles McDonald. Beyond his civic duties, Mayor McDonald takes great pride in his role as a devoted father and a cherished grandfather. It is with genuine appreciation that I express my gratitude to Mayor McDonald for his steadfast dedication to the people of Guam and the beautiful village of Agana Heights. As he embarks upon his final term, I extend my sincerest wishes for continued success and blessings. I am confident his legacy will endure as a source of inspiration for generations to come.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to celebrate the 85th anniversary of Calvo's Insurance, a company that has been a pillar of support for thousands in my island community. In 1938, Eduardo T. Calvo began selling fire and typhoon insurance out of his home. What began as a small part-time job has grown into the largest and oldest insurance provider on Guam. This success is a true testament to Calvo's Insurance's unwavering commitment to serving the people of Guam. Their ability to provide comprehensive and affordable insurance has significantly benefited our community, and their growth over the decades has infused Guam's economy while creating new jobs. As they celebrate this momentous occasion, I want to wish Calvo's Insurance continued success and prosperity in the years to come. May they continue to serve as a shining example of excellence in the insurance industry.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor a civil servant of Guam, the late vice mayor of Sinajana, Rudy Iriarte. Rudy was a proud son of Guam whose service to the island and his village of Sinajana never went unnoticed. He had served in public life for over 30 years in several capacities through the local government and his village. Today, we recognize the great visions, accomplishments, and selfless service Rudy Iriarte made to our community. On behalf of a grateful island and Nation, I extend my deepest and utmost condolences to the family of the late vice mayor and thank him for his service to making Guam a better place.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the 2023 Guam Business Magazine's Executive of the Year, Mr. David Alcorn. In 1975, Dave Alcorn moved from Hawaii to Guam to help launch King's Restaurant. Ten years later, Alcorn and his wife, Lucy, bought the restaurant and became the owners of what is today one of the most successful local restaurant chains and food and beverage icons in Guam. After his success with King's, Dave and his wife incorporated Global Food Services, or GFS, in 2003, and began contracts with several entities, including the Department of Defense, the Guam Naval Hospital, and the Guam Department of Education. Today, GFS is one of the largest food service contractors in Guam and is responsible for nourishing thousands of Guamanians on a day-to-day basis. Over the years, through his leadership, GFS expanded to bring the national Ruby Tuesday's restaurant to Guam and opened Domino's Pizza inside a military installation. In Guam, cuisine is a large part of our culture, and Dave has the immense job of bringing people together through the shared act of breaking bread. Dave Alcorn's dedication, hard work, and determination are vital qualities that emphasize the entrepreneurial spirit of Guam and our Nation. Guam is the embodiment of the American Dream, and a display of these qualities means anyone can succeed. Dave is certainly living the American Dream. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a proud island and Nation, I send my sincerest congratulations to Mr. David Alcorn; his wife, Lucy; the staff and management of King's, and the many entities under Global Food Services for this momentous accomplishment.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this time to honor the life and legacy of the late Peter Richard Sgro, who sadly left this world on January 9. Peter was iconic on so many levels that his outside-the-box vision and drive to effectuate change will be deeply missed. As an attorney, Peter always believed in seeking justice for his clients. He never walked away from a fight if he knew that virtue needed to prevail, and in his case, virtue certainly always prevailed. As the chairman of the board of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, Peter evidenced that he was an advocate for small businesses, particularly the little guy. He stood with them to challenge policies that would raise the cost of doing business, and his relentlessness ensured that he wouldn't sit down until compromises were made. As a businessman, Peter was a visionary, and this was clear when he worked aggressively to bring a private hospital to open its doors in Guam. Peter understood the necessities to improve and expand healthcare for families, and whenever we drive by the Guam Regional Medical City in the northern part of Guam, we can evidently see Peter's legacy on display. For all the roles Peter embraced to help Guam prosper over the decades, there was none that he enjoyed more than being a father to Christopher, Matthew, Katarina, and Maria, and a grandfather to Ricardo, Natalia, and Mila. They were his foundation, his purpose, and his pride. My heart and my deepest condolences go out to them in this trying time. In 2022, as a Guam senator, I had the honor of recognizing Peter and his legacy as his company, International Group, Inc., was celebrating an anniversary. I am saddened that in such a short period of less than 2 years, I am recognizing him under a different set of circumstances. Mr. Speaker, of behalf of a thankful Nation and an appreciative island of Guam, I honor the life and legacy of Peter Richard Sgro and thank him for his many contributions to our island community. He will be dearly missed. Adios to my friend, until we meet again.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Speaker Emeritus McCarthy for his dedication and service in Congress and for leading the Republican Party courageously. We saw this year how he prioritized doing the right thing and maintaining his integrity above all else, regardless of the consequences. His unwavering support for my district, the island of Guam, and his tireless efforts in fighting for the island's interests will never be forgotten. His legacy will continue to inspire future leaders and his impact will be felt for years to come in my district and in the Halls of Congress. Mr. Speaker, as Speaker McCarthy embarks on new endeavors, I know that he will be greatly missed. May God bless and guide him in all his future endeavors.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate and recognize a very important day in Guam's history, December 10, 1898. On this day, the United States and Spain signed the Treaty of Paris, officially handing over Guam to the United States and ending the Spanish-American War. This year, we celebrate the 125th year Guam has been part of our great Nation. Following the United States' acquisition of Guam, it established America as a global superpower and ensured our position in the Indo- Pacific region. Now, 125 years later, the U.S. remains a global superpower and the strongest force in the Pacific and the world, and Guam is a developed and thriving community. Since 1898, Guam has proven to be an essential piece of America that is filled with patriotism and faith. From being a vital military center in the region during World War II to being the tip of the spear against China today, Guam is a hub of American success. Guam is a beacon of hope and American values in the middle of the Pacific. Our American flag is a symbol of liberty and freedom in the region. It is also a warning to all people who seek to provoke violence. The United States and Guam are forces that are not to be reckoned with. Let us take this day to reaffirm the United States' commitment to protecting freedom, peace, and democracy across the Indo-Pacific while maintaining the strong ties that connect Guam and our amazing country.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember and reflect on one of the darkest days in Guam's history. Mr. Speaker, 82 years ago, on December 8, 1941, the Imperial Japanese military launched a surprise attack on Guam just hours after the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. This day in our history is a dark one, and we will always remember how life changed for all Americans 82 years ago. Today, let us also remember and thank the Greatest Generation, our ``manamko,'' ``seniors,'' for their sacrifice and contributions they made for our island. I always enjoy listening to the countless stories they share. Their stories are ones of bravery, patriotism, and resilience. When faced with danger and threats, they never backed down and are a great inspiration for our island and community. While many in Guam associate this day with despair, this day is also a day of celebration and faith in our community. To the large Catholic community in Guam, December 8 is a very important day. It is the feast of Guam's patron saint, Santa Marian Kamalen. On this day in 1941, it began as any normal Sunday, with people going to church. However, life changed with bombs dropping and planes flying overhead. It drowned out the otherwise quiet island. Despite the surprise attack on Guam, Santa Marian Kamalen survived and is a representation of the people of Guam. No matter what happens, our people are strong, and there is no event that can break our communities. This is true for every major setback Guam faces. Most recently, in May of this year, the strongest typhoon to strike Guam in 20 years breached our shores. When homes and businesses were destroyed and when people felt down and despaired, it was the community, our friends, and family who helped us get back on our feet. This is the ``hafa adai'' spirit that lives in everyone who calls Guam home and is a value that keeps our island moving and on our feet. While these moments in Guam's history are merely a single thread in the fabric of our people and island, they make our island what we know it as today. These stories live on, and it is important to reflect on them always. I could not be prouder to represent and advocate for such a diverse and strong district. Because of our people, Guam is strong. While we reflect on the history and sacrifices made 82 years ago, let us fill our hearts with gratitude, reverence, peace, and faith. Mr. Speaker, God bless Guam, God bless our ``manamko,'' ``seniors,'' and God bless America.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to welcome the establishment of U.S. Coast Guard Base Guam, the Coast Guard's new, dedicated base of operations in my district, focused on logistics and operational support throughout the Western Pacific. Under the command of Commander Dana Hiatt, the opening of this new base signifies a milestone in the relationship between our Nation and regional allies in the Pacific. As illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, also known as IUU, continues to plague the region, it is essential that the U.S. Coast Guard expand its presence accordingly to counter IUU fishing in U.S. territorial waters and those of our allies in the Freely Associated States. The Coast Guard's role in search and rescue operations is also invaluable. Just last month, in a joint Navy-Coast Guard operation, a Navy helicopter saved three divers 29 miles off the coast of Guam. It took just 2 hours from the report of the missing divers for them to be pulled out of the water. I applaud the tireless efforts of our Coast Guard and sailors for saving these divers and the dozens of others they save off Guam every year. Guam's location in the Indo-Pacific is vital to keeping a free and open Pacific and supports our military in its mission to protect the interests of the United States in the region. This new base reasserts a core idea that keeps our island and Nation safe: What is good for Guam is good for America. Madam Speaker, I could not be prouder to welcome these new coastguardsmen and their families to our beautiful island, and I look forward to continuing to support and grow the partnership between the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, and the people of Guam.