James (Jim) Moylan

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Taniguchi Ruth Makio Architects, also known as TRMA, on their 50th anniversary of designing and building creativity on the island of Guam. Established by Kinya Taniguchi in 1973, TRMA has a celebrated history of designing, planning, constructing, and managing hundreds of projects in Guam, the CNMI, and throughout Micronesia. Through training, investment, and education, TRMA strides to always utilize the latest technology, planning and design code, and materials to bring Guam to the cutting edge of architectural innovation. Today, TRMA has designed and managed a wide array of projects in the private and public sectors throughout the region. For the past 50 years, TRMA has never ceased to be a reliable and stable firm that is able to meet the needs of Guam. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate, once again, Taniguchi Ruth Makio Architects on their 50th anniversary. With new opportunities on the horizon, I send them my prayers and wish them the best of luck for the next 50 years. Congratulations to TakeCare Insurance on their 50th Anniversary

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate TakeCare Insurance on their 50th anniversary of providing the people of Guam and the Marianas with quality health insurance. When TakeCare Insurance was first established, it was the largest in the Mariana Islands and introduced the region's first group practice, prepayment, and medical program as a staff-model health maintenance organization. Since then, TakeCare has been a pillar in Guam's insurance and healthcare community and has built a reputation of providing quality insurance to our island. Today, TakeCare covers more than 30,000 people in Guam, the CNMI, American Samoa, and Palau. They provide the people of Guam access to the largest health insurance network in Micronesia, and they only continue to grow. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate, once again, TakeCare Insurance on their 50th anniversary. With new opportunities on the horizon, I send them my prayers and wish them the best of luck for the next 50 years.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, in honor of Veterans Day on Friday, I rise to recognize the brave men and women who have protected and served our country courageously. This is an especially significant day for my district, the island of Guam, as it is home to over 15,000 military veterans. We are also proud to hold the highest per capita statistics of enlistment numbers in the Nation. I pledge to continue pushing for legislation that provides better benefits and services for all our veterans. I will continue honoring their legacy by supporting those who have served and to ensure Guam's defense is strong and resilient as tensions rise in the Indo-Pacific region. Today and every day we honor veterans and their families for the sacrifices that have made our freedom possible. Their courage, patriotism, and dedication are an inspiration for us all. May God bless our veterans, and may God bless America.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and celebrate a remarkable milestone, the 35th anniversary of the Micronesia Mall. This celebration is a testament to the vision, dedication, and hard work that have shaped the mall, their businesses, and the island of Guam into what it is today. Since 1988, the mall, under the leadership of the Goodwind Development Corporation, has been a beacon of economic success in the region, providing goods and services to locals and tourists alike as the largest shopping center in Micronesia. As I speak here today, I look back at an incredible 35 years, while also looking forward to seeing what the mall will establish in the future with new opportunities, challenges, and accomplishments on the horizon. I am confident in the mall's dedication to the island, and I wish the mall a sincere congratulations and may the legacy of the mall continue to shine in our hearts and in our community.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Chair, I rise to speak up for the people of Guam, who are facing immediate danger from the Chinese and North Korean missiles. China's DF-26 missiles has been dubbed the Guam Killer. Also, North Korea repeatedly threatens my island, and our American defense systems cannot simultaneously track or shoot down missiles from two directions at once. Let's also be mindful of the fact that servicemembers from across the Nation serve on Guam and face similar peril. I urge my colleagues to support my amendment with the safety of your constituents in mind. Please vote to protect the people of Guam and vote in favor of my amendment to truly fund Guam missile defense.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to share the introduction of my bill, the CHILD Act of 2023. This bill seeks to amend chapter 77, section 1591 of title 18, United States Code, by raising the mandatory minimum years of imprisonment for engaging in the trafficking of any person under the age of 18. The current law states that if convicted of trafficking a victim under the age of 14, there is a minimum of 15 years imprisonment. If convicted of trafficking a victim between the ages of 14 and 17, the minimum sentence is 10 years imprisonment. Child sex trafficking remains a pressing issue in the United States. In 2021, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received over 17,200 reports of child sex trafficking in all 50 U.S. States, affecting every type of community, including cities, rural areas, and Tribal land. According to an NCMEC report from 2021, out of the 25,000 missing runaway children, 1 out of 6 are likely to be victims of sex trafficking. Offenders often target vulnerable children who are of lower income, live in dangerous circumstances, and seek out better lives for themselves. Victims come from all backgrounds and become trapped in a never-ending cycle of threats, abuse, false promises, isolation, shame, and debt. These victims are deprived of something every child deserves--a future. If enacted, this legislation would make the sentence for traffickers exploiting victims under the age of 18 the same regardless of their age. A child is still a minor, and there should be no differentiation at all. It would also increase the minimum sentence to 25 years for those who are convicted of child trafficking. This will convey the serious nature of their crime and ensure that traffickers know that they will be punished if they continue to exploit minors. By enacting more stringent penalties, this bill aims to bring justice for the victims and families affected by child trafficking and issues a strong statement to traffickers, who leave a lifetime of scars on innocent children. My message is clear: Sex trafficking is a heinous crime that will not be tolerated. Current laws are too soft on these criminals, and I am committed to ensuring stricter laws and harsher punishments to anyone who harms innocent children. Lastly, I urge my colleagues in Congress to support this crucial piece of legislation to protect all children. I also thank my co-leads--Congressman Don Davis, Congressman Buddy Carter, Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger, Congressman Don Bacon, and Congresswoman Amata Radewagen--for cosponsoring the CHILD Act of 2023.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my colleagues who have called for an increase in funding for our border security and to remind the Nation that the U.S. border in Guam ought to be defended, too. As we continue to discuss and debate solutions to our southern border crisis, I ask that we not forget to secure all our border cities, from Brownsville to Hagatna. Mr. Speaker, Chinese nationals are arriving on the shores of Guam in droves, often coming in small boats from neighboring islands. Among the many honest people looking to flee tyranny and find sanctuary on American soil, it is a known fact that spies have exploited this insecure border. Security forces at Andersen Air Force Base have told me on numerous occasions that they have apprehended such intruders. Citing our low terror threat, the Department of Homeland Security currently designates less than 1 percent of Homeland Security grant funding to Guam. The Department of Homeland Security's assessment of the situation ignores reality and its red flags for national security. Guam has an extremely permeable border and is facing vigorous efforts by the CCP to exploit our vulnerabilities. With resources on a scale of a municipality, Guam must contend with a border crisis caused by the Chinese state. Guam needs more funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a more robust Coast Guard presence, and a Federal law enforcement presence proportional to the scope of the immigration issues, transnational crime, and military intelligence vulnerabilities on my island. Mr. Speaker, I cannot let this moment pass without asking my colleagues to help me fund the defense of my community. I ask my colleagues to help me secure the border by securing all of America's borders.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, this past weekend the Guam National Youth Football Federation held its championship on Saturday. After an exciting season, three teams won their respective division championship games and are officially known as the 2023 GNYFF champions. Under this historic dome of democracy, I congratulate the following youth football championship teams: the Guam Eagles for winning the Manha Division championship, the Hal's Angels for winning the Metgot Division championship, and the Guam Eagles for winning the Matua Division championship. I also congratulate the coaches, trainers, sponsors, and families of all the teams for their many efforts and sacrifices and for instilling in the kids the values of sportsmanship, character, and teamwork.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a sports organization in Guam. Actually, it is more than an organization. It is a sports legacy and icon of our beautiful island. This year, Guam's Hal's Angels Football Association is celebrating their 40th anniversary of promoting youth football on the island. Four decades ago, the late and great Hal Shiroma envisioned a way to keep Guam's youth off the streets and out of trouble by promoting the values of participation in youth football. His belief was to provide our kids with a wholesome environment which would promote the mystique of competition, the joy of victory, the reality of defeat, the importance of commitment, and the spirit of community, while gaining a strong sense of teamwork. Over the years, he combed the streets, and whenever he saw troubled kids, he would reach out to their families to encourage participation in his football organization. His coaching was not easy, but it proved to be effective. Today, we see parents and grandparents, who once wore the Hal's Angels football jersey over the decades, encourage their children and grandchildren to play for the organization whose values they continue to uphold. Over four decades, Hal's Angels have held the most championship titles in each age division of the Guam National Youth Football Federation, and their legacy continued this past weekend where the Hal's Angels Metgot team repeated as champions in their division. While Coach Hal sadly passed away in 2002, his legacy and his vision continued through the hard work, sacrifices, and efforts of his sons Ivan, Buzz, Blu, and Ty Shiroma. On behalf of a thankful island and nation, and under this historic dome of democracy, I congratulate Guam's Hal's Angels Football Association for celebrating 40 years of promoting youth football in Guam and for instilling character and healthy competition in the hearts and minds of thousands of our youth for four decades.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chair Roger Williams and Ranking Member Nydia Velazquez of the Committee on Small Business for allowing me to sit in on their hearing yesterday focused on the challenges that face rural small businesses. I thank Representative Shri Thanedar for allowing me to be the Republican lead on his bill, H.R. 4661, also known as the One Stop Shop for Small Business Licensing Act of 2023. Small businesses are vital to Guam's economy and are the embodiment of the American Dream and entrepreneurial spirit. Guam's economy thrives thanks to the hard work of committed, dedicated, and resourceful small business owners. It is not easy owning and running a small business, and these enterprises face issues that are not concerning to large corporations. A common issue that I have heard about from small business owners from the Guam Chamber of Commerce and the witness panel in yesterday's hearing is the limited access to capital. This continues to be increasingly difficult with high interest rates and inflation continuing to be a burden on how business is conducted. Consequently, small businesses are forced to invest less in their company and find it difficult to expand, offer more goods and services, and provide more jobs. While Guam is not exempt from the macroeconomic issues that plague our economy, we have our own set of challenges that make doing business in Guam more difficult. Every business across the Nation is currently feeling the effects of inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain issues. In Guam, these challenges are magnified because of the island's geographic location. Shipping costs greatly increase the cost of goods, and Guam's labor shortage is worsened because of this isolation, requiring the use of H- 2B visa workers. As a small island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, nearly every business in my district qualifies as a rural small business. The issues small businesses face are my issues, and I will continue to do everything in my power to support them and, by extension, the people of Guam. Congratulating the Guam Association of Realtors

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to congratulate the Guam Association of Realtors, or GAR, for the launch of their assistance program for both homeowners and renters and for receiving a grant of $500,000 to fund their program. It was several months ago when my island community was struck by Typhoon Mawar, leaving it in devastation. Many were left stranded, homeless, and without the means to rebuild their lives. It is through programs like this that we can rebuild our community and provide a much-needed lifeline for our people. GAR's legacy dates back several decades and is part of one of the largest and most influential trade industries in the Nation, the National Association of Realtors. Their primary objectives include promoting and maintaining high standards of conduct, providing a unified medium for real estate owners, and creating an atmosphere of unity. I applaud the executive director, Peggy Llagas, the hardworking staff and management of GAR, and the board of directors for their contributions on Guam and for giving our community hope.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Irene Perez Ploke Sgambelluri. A proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a World War II survivor are just some of the words used to describe Ms. Irene Perez Ploke Sgambelluri, or as many call her, Aunty Irene. Aunty Irene has been a fighter for World War II survivors, a champion for Guam's Greatest Generation, and one who has worked tirelessly over the decades to ensure that those who endured the atrocities of the occupation are recognized by the Federal Government. Aunty Irene advocated for the payments of World War II reparations for decades, and the fruits of her labor were rewarded when former President Donald Trump enacted legislation to ensure these reparations were fulfilled. During the month our community celebrates Guam's liberation, I honor her for her years of advocacy. Mr. Speaker, I thank Aunty Irene, and may God continue to bless her and her family.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Guam's Liberation Day. Madam Speaker, 79 years ago, on July 21, 1944, following 2\1/2\ years of occupation, the United States servicemembers landed on the southwest part of Guam to liberate over 20,000 CHamorus and Americans from the Imperial Japanese military. On December 8, 1941, the feast of Santa Marian Kamalen, Guam's patron saint, the sound of bombs dropping and planes flying overhead drowned out our otherwise quiet and isolated island. This day was the start of the occupation in Guam. This period in Guam's history was a treacherous one, but the people of the island persevered and displayed a great sense of resiliency, willpower, patriotism, and hope. Guamanians never fail to display these traits today and have been tested time and time again. From war to natural disasters, most recently Super Typhoon Mawar, which ravaged our community in May, Guamanians have always held these traits close to their hearts. These traits are unchangeable and have forged our island's culture of peace, ``harmony,'' or ``inafa'maolek'' to make good in the world. They guide our way of life and advance our distinct cultural identity that is recognizable around the world. This is known as the Hafa Adai spirit, and Guamanians are proud to share this with everyone they meet and wherever they go. Liberation Day is an island-wide celebration that brings all Guamanians together in celebration of the national and local cultural identity, democracy, and freedom. On this day, we remember those who fought, endured, sacrificed, and gave their lives to protect our island home and Nation. This day allows us to remember the sacrifices of the people who came before us and thank those who currently fight on the front lines for our freedom, families, and values. Guam has a long history with the armed services and plays a large role in contributing to military strength, providing thousands of soldiers, marines, sailors, airmen, guardians, and coastguardsmen. Guam is proud to have the highest number of enlistments per capita across the country. As home to the Joint Regional Marianas, Naval Base Guam, Andersen Air Force Base, and Marine Corps Camp Blaz on Guam, our island is the tip of the spear in our fight against our enemies in the Indo-Pacific region. Our strategic and unparalleled location, invaluable assets, and most importantly, our servicemembers contribute to the strength and the might of the world's greatest fighting force. The past 79 years have been a momentous period for growth, change, and progress for our island. The people of our island have changed to form an even more diverse melting pot of cultures that honors our differences throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Today is a day on which we celebrate the values, people, traditions, and cultures that make Guam and America a great place to live. I am proud to stand here and speak today representing such a diverse and significant part of America. As we commemorate the 79th anniversary of Guam's liberation, we recognize the contributions Guam has and will continue to make for our Nation. We are proud to be where America's day begins and fly the American flag in the middle of the Pacific. Let us also celebrate and recognize this day as a day in which we recommit and redeliver on our promises to fight for freedom and democracy across the Nation, Pacific region, and the world.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate a remarkable educator, Guam's 2023 Teacher of the Year, Ms. Stephane Concepcion. She has been educating young minds for more than a decade and currently teaches fourth grade at Talofofo Elementary School. Ms. Concepcion's commitment to her students and dedication to her craft have earned her the recognition and admiration of her colleagues and community. Her passion for teaching is evident in her students' success, and she is a shining example of what an excellent teacher should be. Congratulations to Ms. Concepcion for being named Teacher of the Year. Thank you for making a positive impact on our island's youth and education system. We look forward to more of your great work in the years to come.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, as Guam continues to recover from the wrath of Super Typhoon Mawar, I want to take this time to thank the many selfless heroes who worked and continue to work endless hours to ensure that our community reaches normalcy, or at least some degree of it: The crews from the Guam Power Authority and the Guam Waterworks Authority continue to work till the wee hours of the morning to ensure that power and water are restored in homes and businesses, as these represent the first step toward normalcy; The men and women from the Department of Public Works, along with the Guam National Guard and even the Hawaii National Guard, who have and continue to remove debris throughout the island; Our hardworking men and women in healthcare, many of whom worked bravely throughout the storm and who had to pull various roles, inclusive of ensuring that the floors didn't get flooded in the rooms of their patients, as the storm extended its stay in Guam; Our brave men and women in public safety, who, just as many of our healthcare workers, braved and worked throughout the storm and today continue to ensure that the many dark streets and neighborhoods are well patrolled from the ``sakis''; Our Federal partners from FEMA, SBA, HHS, Army Corps of Engineers, and the list goes on and on, many who got to the island prior to Mawar, and those who came in after, who are fulfilling many roles, inclusive of ensuring that the basic necessities, such as water, MREs, generators, cots, tents, and so much more get to the community and, of course, assisting the island residents in applying for the many Federal benefit programs available; The mayors and the vice mayors of our 19 municipalities and their staffs, who I thank for their diligence, hard work, patience, and, most especially, their heart in not only caring for their constituents but also fighting for them; Our brothers and sisters from the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, including Governor Arnold Palacios, Lieutenant Governor David Apatang, and Congressman Kilili Sablan, for opening your hearts and helping the people of Guam. We are, indeed, One Mariana Islands Strong; To our educators and the staff at Guam Agriculture, Port Authority of Guam, Guam Airport Authority, Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency, Guam Fire Department, the EMTs, and so many others in the public sector who continue to strive to help with Guam's recovery; and Our military partners, including Rear Admiral Benjamin Nicholson, and our business partners, including various organizations, who were and are all critical toward the path for recovery. On behalf of a thankful nation and island community, and from the sacred Halls of this House of Representatives, I thank the many who worked prior, during, and after the storm to ensure that our people were safe, prepared, and on the path toward recovery. Many left behind their families, homes, and, in some cases, personal recovery to help our community overcome this latest challenge. Their selfless efforts and resiliency will never be forgotten. God bless them. God bless Guam. God bless these United States of America.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, it is with distinct honor and respect that I rise to recognize the Honorable Madeleine Bordallo who is celebrating her 90th birthday this month. An eight-term Member of the House of Representatives, Congresswoman Bordallo stood in these very sacred Halls and under this historic dome for 16 years representing Guam and ensuring our community needs were always prioritized on a Federal level. A two-term Lieutenant Governor, a senator for several terms in the Guam legislature, and an iconic first lady for 8 years, Congresswoman Bordallo's record with public service is vast and endless. As a pioneer for education and advocate for our youth and one who has always prioritized the beautification of our island, there are many achievements in Guam which are credited to the work of the Congresswoman. I would need several hours just to name a handful of her accomplishments over the decades. On behalf of a thankful Nation and island, I thank Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo for her decades of work for the people. Mr. Speaker, I request this august body to join me in these sacred and historic Halls of Congress to wish Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo a happy birthday and blessings for many, many more.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, as we continue to commemorate Mental Health Awareness Month, I recognize an organization in Guam, which started in October of 2021 and has continued to advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. TU;MA is a woman-owned small business, and I am honored to recognize the founder, Mrs. Jesrae Moylan, who is here with us today in the Halls of Congress. It was founded through the challenges faced when Jesrae's younger brother, Ray, took his life in 2017. TU;MA was a nickname provided to Ray by Jesrae's son, Apollo. A name which had no meaning then has a significant presence today with the island community. TU;MA focuses on shifting the stigma surrounding mental health and normalizing such conversations through the sharing of stories and connections assisting in the healing process. On behalf of a thankful Nation and island, I commend Mrs. Jesrae Moylan and team TU;MA for their selfless efforts in helping others and reminding them to always choose themselves.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday afternoon, Guam, a territory of the United States, my district, and my home, will be moving to Condition of Readiness 1 as Typhoon Mawar makes its way to the Marianas region. On its current track, the system is expected to bring tropical-storm- force winds as early as Tuesday afternoon, with the possibility of typhoon-force winds of 81 to 110 miles per hour by Wednesday morning, along with gusts projected to reach 100 to 120 miles per hour. This, along with heavy rainfall, certainly places Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands in a serious predicament, with a major natural disaster at our doorstep. While our community is resilient and has overcome such perils of Mother Nature many times in the past, when it comes to a typhoon of this magnitude, a direct impact over any of the islands will sadly lead to severe damage of homes, businesses, crops, and livelihoods, and will certainly lead us to a long road toward recovery. Within these sacred Halls, I humbly ask my colleagues to pray for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands and that we can dodge this massive bullet called Typhoon Mawar. God Almighty, please protect our community and our people. Celebrating the Philippines 125th Independence Day

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, on June 12, 2023, the Philippines will be celebrating the very day in 1898 when the Philippines declared its independence from Spain. They will, in essence, commemorate 125 years of independence. While it still took nearly another half decade for the Treaty of Manila to be signed to secure its full independence from the United States, it is still recognized as a historic transition to allow the country to preserve the very culture, language, and traditions that we appreciate today. The proud relationship between the Philippines and Guam has been prosperous over the decades. A good percentage of our island's population either relocated from the Philippines or have roots tied back to the Philippines. Due to Spanish influence, there are many similarities with our cultures, food, traditions, and language. Many of the surnames are also similar. Our island has developed greater ties with the Philippines, which includes medical tourism for islanders to seek medical care in one of the many world-class facilities in the Philippines. Our H2B labor solely arrives from the Philippines and has been remarkable for our economy. Flights to and from Manila are almost always full on any day of the week, to continue the enhancements of economic activity for both Guam and the Philippines. While we recognize the independence of the Philippines, I take this time to honor and commend the Filipino Community of Guam. The FCG is a nonprofit umbrella organization for 29 Filipino member-associations in Guam. For 69 years, the FCG has continued to perpetuate and promote the culture of the Philippines on Guam and in the region. On June 3, they will be hosting the Philippine Independence Ball to highlight this historic occasion. To president Patrick Luces; vice presidents Romy Angel, Elizabeth Cena, and Loisa Cabuhat; secretaries Trixie Naholowaa-Torres and Nilfa Milan; treasurers Frank Huelar and Allan Camacho; auditor Linda Caasi; public relations officer Eileen Igcasenza; and to the board of trustees, on behalf of a thankful Nation and island and under these sacred Halls of democracy and history, I say thank you for your service to the community and for your efforts to keep the Filipino traditions thriving on Guam and the region. Finally, to the Philippines, an ally of the United States, a friend of Guam, a country of hardworking people with pride and humbleness, Happy 125th Independence Day. ``Philippine Independence Day,'' ``Araw ng Kalayaan.''

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Madam Speaker, while there are certainly many important issues to celebrate and recognize during the month of May, one that definitely hits home to me is that May is when our Nation celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month. I stand with honor and pride to celebrate my district, my community, and my home, the beautiful island of Guam. Guam is an island community proudly displaying an American flag in the midst of the Pacific region. Guam is home to a diverse and vibrant community. We are a melting pot consisting of Chamorros, Filipino Americans, Asian Americans, Micronesians, and so many other beautiful ethnicities. In Guam, we embrace the spirit of inafa'maolek, which is to make good, or in the larger scheme of things, to restore harmony or order. We are an island of respectability, from taking care of our elders to ensuring our neighbors are okay. We are also a welcoming community, as servicemembers assigned to Guam can proudly share their stories of being invited to village fiestas. This month we honor and reflect on our island's unique history, culture, diversity, and contributions to our Nation's history and development. We are an island of patriots and proud Americans, many of whom have served in the U.S. Armed Forces during wars and conflicts. On a per capita basis, we have among the highest number of enlistments in the Nation. Guam is also proud to be home to veterans, once again, among the highest per capita. Our proud veterans hope to be provided the same care that their brothers and sisters receive on the mainland. In fact, the island remains one of the Pacific's most strategic assets holding key military installations and is also a vital component of the INDOPACOM theater. As a Pacific Islander, I am proud to be continuing a tradition of holding a seat in the sacred Halls of democracy where I can proudly stand and represent my community. It is a tradition which started with the late Delegate Antonio Won Pat and continued through the works of the late Delegate and General Ben Blaz, Delegate Robert Underwood, Delegate Madeleine Bordallo, and my predecessor, Delegate Michael San Nicolas. Each did their job ensuring that Pacific Islanders were represented with honor and dignity. As we will certainly have many discussions over this term to discuss the inequities our community faces as American citizens, today I wanted to rejoice in the celebration that I represent Pacific Islanders who are proud, welcoming, and who always display the Hafa Adai spirit. I want to reflect on the hardworking islanders who have contributed to the growth of Guam and our region, from the levels of commerce, education, farming, healthcare, public service, engineering, and so much more. Many of them have relocated throughout the Nation to become integral contributors of so many districts represented by many Members of Congress. Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month reminds us of the immense contributions to the Nation's history and culture while encouraging us to learn more about their extraordinary and diverse stories, stories I look forward to sharing with my colleagues throughout this term. Happy Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, as we observe National Nurses Week, I rise to honor our medical professionals on Guam and the incredible work they do for our island community. Nurses are an integral part of our healthcare system, providing patients with compassionate care and support. Shown next to me are some of Guam's nurses tending to the well-being of our island residents. As the backbone of our healthcare system, nurses work tirelessly around the clock to ensure everyone receives the best possible treatment. Oftentimes, they sacrifice their own well-being and comfort to provide excellent care to their patients. This can mean working long hours, dealing with difficult individuals, or managing stressful situations. Not to forget, on Guam and everywhere else, nurses were at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19, putting their own lives at risk to save others. Today and every day, we honor our nurses for their hard work and dedication. Happy National Nurses Week. Celebrating Guam Chamber of Commerce's 99th Anniversary

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, this past weekend, the Guam Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 99th anniversary. That is nearly a century of promoting the economic, social, and environmental well-being of the island of Guam. The Guam Chamber of Commerce has taken the initiative in extending and fostering trade and commerce on island, developing and protecting the many industries that call Guam home, advocating for probusiness policies, and providing forums for business entities to grow. Their Armed Forces Committee has tirelessly continued a decades-long tradition of walking the Halls of Congress and knocking on doors to promote mutually beneficial and responsible military growth in Guam. As someone who has spent many years in the private sector and proudly sat on the board of directors of this prestigious organization many years ago, it is my honor to stand here in these sacred Halls of democracy to congratulate the Guam Chamber of Commerce on their historic milestone of celebrating 99 years. On behalf of a thankful nation and island, I commend them for their many services toward both Guam's business community and the people of Guam. Honoring and Recognizing Guam's Centenarians

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, as our island and Nation celebrate and honor our senior citizens, or manamko, as we refer to them back home, I will to take this time to recognize a handful of centenarians on Guam, who will be celebrating a birthday spanning 100 years or older this year. This list includes: Ms. Rosario Flores Leon Guerrero, who is celebrating her 103rd birthday. Ms. Teodora Andrada, who is celebrating her 102nd birthday. Ms. Josefina de la Concepcion Diaz, who is celebrating her 101st birthday. Ms. Lillian Leon Anderson is celebrating her 100th birthday this year. Also celebrating birthday No. 100 is Ms. Magdalena Perez Taitano Fausto. Sadly, we recently lost Ms. Victoria Robeniol Rebugio, who would have celebrated her 101st birthday in December of this year. On behalf of a great nation and a loving island community, and from these sacred Halls of democracy and history, please join me in honoring Guam's centenarians and wishing them a happy birthday.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2, because protecting America's borders also means protecting my community. Guam is geographically closer to China than any other part of the United States. For that reason, I view border security as an important piece of national security. While securing the border, H.R. 2 also makes it easier for employers to hire H-2A workers. I support these efforts, because the similar H-2B visa program is an irreplaceable source of labor for the Department of Defense and is absolutely necessary to supplement Guam's construction labor force, which ultimately serves the purpose of protecting our Nation. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues for their work on H.R. 2.

Mr. MOYLAN

Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I take this time to recognize and honor the late, great John Camacho, also known as Chubado, who sadly left this world a few years ago. John left behind his lovely wife, Darleen, and children, Janice and Jeremy. A proud son of Guam, John received numerous accolades for academic excellence during his time at Fresno State University where he obtained a bachelor of science in civil engineering. In 1978, he and his friend Henry Simpson were the brain children of Smokin' Wheels, which consisted of off-road motorcycling, buggy, and truck endurance. In 1979, John participated in the Baja 1000, which remains one of the most prestigious off-road obstacles in the world. On behalf of the Nation and the island of Guam, and in these sacred Halls of democracy, I honor and recognize John Camacho as a founding father of motorsports on Guam and as a renaissance man for the sport in the region.