Donald Norcross

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend Colonel Kirby Gross on his retirement. Colonel Kirby Gross has served in the United States Army as a trauma surgeon for a span of 21 years. He has been deployed 10 times totaling over 5 years of combat service. Colonel Gross has served for 5 years of combat service, after being deployed a total of 10 times. Throughout Colonel Gross's career, he served in many positions that increased his positive influence on the lives of others. During his 21 years of service, Colonel Gross served twice as the Joint Theater Trauma System Director, and the Theater Medical Director for Operation Inherent Resolve. Here, he was able to develop medical assets which provided care to injured soldiers within the theater, therefore improving battlefield care. Throughout his many positions, he was able to demonstrate empathy towards warriors, aiding many in their return to good health. Colonel Gross served the country in many important and influential roles. He worked as the Commander of the 772nd Forward Surgical Team (FST) to Iraq, which is where he assumed the role of Chief of Surgery of the 10th Combat Support Hospital Directors of the Joint Trauma System (JTS), Chief of Defense Medical Readiness Training Institute (DMRTI), and Chief of Surgery of the Army Trauma Training Detachment (ATTD). He has been able to use his roles to improve care for wounded warriors, positively impacting their families and our Nation. Today, Colonel Gross works diligently as an Army Trauma Surgeon in the Division of Trauma within the Section of Military, Diplomatic, and Field Surgical Affairs at Cooper University Health Care as part of the Army Medical Department, Military-Civilian Trauma Team Training Program. Colonel Gross's work has affected the lives of many, as he improved the survivability of soldiers throughout the Global War on Terrorism. His actions have influenced and encouraged an environment of achievement that will assuredly increase the survivability rate of military campaigns for our country. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring and commending Colonel Kirby Gross, on behalf of a grateful nation for his dedication to our country and those who have bravely served and defended the United States of America to the best of his ability. Be it known to all, that I hereby honor Colonel Kirby Gross, and extend great appreciation for outstanding service to our community.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Chairman, this bill continues the long, proud tradition of bipartisan work by the Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee, and it is the result of our commitment to work through and share responsibility on these tough decisions necessary to manage our Nation's military risk. I especially want to thank my chairman, Chairman Rob Wittman, and his staff for their support in building this strong bipartisan bill. Mr. Chairman, this bill carefully addresses affordability and achievability of the current and future modernization needs of our force. At the same time, this bill continues the oversight necessary to ensure accountability and responsible execution of DOD programs, including: Tactical strike-fighter and rotary-wing aircraft programs to improve program management, reduce operational risk, remedy deficiencies, and support sufficient capability and capacity to meet current and future requirements; The Department's manned and unmanned intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance aircraft and how we are meeting global requirements for these systems that we have invested in; and Careful watch over the Army's ambitious modernization strategy and the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030 with its supporting modernization priorities. Critically important for the United States, as well as for our friends and allies around the world, this bill continues what we started 4 years ago--before the beginning of the Ukrainian war--to identify and buy down modernization and safety risks in our munitions industrial base. Mr. Chairman, this bill also includes language from the Military Industrial National Defense Supply Act, the MINDS Act, a bill that I introduced earlier this year, that talks about, once again, making sure that we collectively are working together. Additionally, this year, along with our most trusted allies and international partners, we are ensuring the security of our supply chain. The world has changed, Mr. Chairman, and now the United States and its allies are truly an arsenal of democracies. This legislation, therefore, will help stabilize America's defense industrial base production and increase the security of both America and our allies' critical supply chains. Finally, I thank the subcommittee's professional staff: Jay, Dave, Heath, Michael, and Max, and certainly the personal staff of my office who helped put this together to make this bill truly a functional, bipartisan bill. I urge its support.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend Petty Officer 3rd Class Harry Glasco, Hometown Hero. Born and raised in Camden, New Jersey, longtime resident, Petty Officer 3rd Class Harry Glasco enlisted to serve in the United States Navy at the age of sixteen years old. From November of 1964 to November of 1968, Petty Officer 3rd Class Harry Glasco bravely served on active duty in the United States Navy. He was stationed in San Diego, California and saw three tours of duty in Vietnam. During his time in the service he exemplified commitment and exemplary conduct which earned him several accolades including the Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Champion Medal. His dedication was recognized, and he was promoted to the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class Gun Fire Control. After four years of active-duty service, Petty Officer 3rd Class Harry Glasco was honorably discharged from the United States Navy. When he returned home, he began his career with Lockheed Martin and his prior training allowed him to work on televisions. His commitment to making a positive impact on his community pushed him to pour his heart into mentoring athletes and teaching them the true value of teamwork, discipline, and determination. Petty Officer 3rd Class Harry Glasco's coaching left a lasting impact on his players as he instilled in them a sense of pride and camaraderie. As a civilian, Petty Officer 3rd Class Harry Glasco continued to care for the fellow men and women who served, becoming an active member of the American Legion Post 473. The American Legion is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families which provided him a platform to continue his service beyond the Navy. His commitment to his fellow veterans and guidance from his brother, Robert, a Korean War veteran, led him to become Commander of Post 473, which he remains to this day. Petty Officer 3rd Class Harry Glasco works tirelessly to ensure that the veterans in his community receive the care, recognition, and support that they deserve. He has been able to assist both friends and other veteran communities through programs such as Home of the Brave. He has exemplified the qualities of a true leader, devoted patriot, and compassionate community member with an unwavering dedication to serving his country. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring and commending Petty Officer 3rd Class Harry Glasco of Camden, New Jersey, as a resident dedicated to his community, country, and those who have bravely served and defended the United States of America.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, family, friends, the community, police officers, and leaders from across the Nation, gathered inside Pfleeger Concert Hall at Rowan University on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 to celebrate the life, legacy and bravery of Officer Robert ``Bobby'' J. Shisler. Officer Robert J. Shisler proudly served as a Police Officer for the Deptford Township Police Department. Born on October 22, 1995, Robert grew up in South Jersey. He graduated from Deptford High School in 2014, where he was an exceptional athlete, playing both varsity football and baseball. Officer Robert J. Shisler continued his education and athletic career when he committed to play Division One baseball at Presbyterian College in South Carolina. He was also very passionate about hunting and weightlifting, taking first place in a bodybuilding competition in 2021. Officer Robert J. Shisler will forever be remembered as a dedicated officer and a hero who gave his life to protect and serve his community, state, and country. His heroic actions and service, putting others safety above his own, will be etched in history for all to honor and remember. Officer Robert J. Shisler was not only an exemplary officer, but he was also an excellent son, grandson, and brother. He came from a family committed to public service, working alongside his brother who currently serves as a Deptford Township Police Officer. He is survived by his parents Robert and Tracy, grandparents Marion, Robert, and Ethel, and his siblings Ashley and Tyler. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful Nation, I ask you to join me in honoring and commending Officer Robert J. Shisler, for his outstanding service and his selfless dedication to the Deptford Township Police Department and community, the Great State of New Jersey and the United States of America.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend General President of the Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA), Terry O'Sullivan, who is retiring after nearly 24 years of service. Once one of the youngest union leaders in the nation, Terry dedicated his life to serving the members of LIUNA, fighting for middle class and working families, and advancing the broader labor movement in the United States. As General President, Terry inspired workers and grew LIUNA's membership to one of the largest and most active unions in the nation. LIUNA built a reputation as a premiere energy and infrastructure union under his leadership, and more than half a million LIUNA members continue to power our economy. After more than two decades of fighting for the working people of this country, Terry's impact on the labor movement will last for generations. The working men and women of the United States are lucky to have had Terry in their corner for 24 years, and we cannot thank him enough for his service. Please join me in honoring and commending Terry O'Sullivan as we celebrate his extraordinary career and wish him happiness and success as he begins this new chapter.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend General President of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Joseph Sellers, Jr., who is retiring after nearly 3 decades in SMART local and national leadership. The son of a SMART sheet metal worker and local union officer, Sellers followed in his father's footsteps and began an apprenticeship in 1980 at Local 19 in Philadelphia before becoming a journeyman four years later. In 1994, he was elected to the Local's executive board and become its president and business manager in 2002. After being elected to international leadership in 2009 and serving as the union's general secretary since 2011, Sellers became SMART's general president in 2015 and was re-elected in 2019. Under Sellers' leadership, SMART improved outreach and visibility to key stakeholders and policymakers on important issues to union members such as pensions, healthcare, and apprenticeships. His advocacy advanced diversity and inclusion in the union, and he established strong working relationships with members of Congress and the Biden Administration, where he helped champion the passage of the American Rescue Plan, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the Inflation Reduction Act among many others. The United States, SMART, and the working men and women of our country are better off because of the steadfast and visionary leadership of Joseph Sellers, Jr. He advanced the ideals of working people and fought to improve the quality of life for the American people. We are grateful for his decades of service to SMART, and his commitment to the working people and families of the United States. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring and commending Joseph Sellers, Jr., of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers as we celebrate his retirement and dedication to serving the organization and their many working families throughout his career.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of one of New Jersey's finest, Deptford Township Officer Robert ``Bobby'' Shisler, who died last week after being shot in the line of duty in March. He was just 27 years old. Born and raised in Deptford, Officer Shisler dedicated his life to serving and protecting his community. He served Deptford with honor and integrity and made south Jersey a better, safer place for all of us. We must never forget the ultimate sacrifice made by the officer and all those who wear the uniform who protect us. We will always remember Officer Shisler for the hero that he is. I am keeping his family, his friends, his fellow law enforcement officers, and the entire Deptford community in my thoughts and prayers. May he rest in peace.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend Petty Officer Walter G. Eife. Born and raised in Haddon Township, New Jersey, Petty Officer Walter G. Eife served in the United States Navy as a Radar Technician and Radio Operator. From 1955 to 1962, Petty Officer Walter G. Eife served on active duty in the United States Navy. He attended bootcamp in Bainbridge, Maryland before attending Radar/Electronics school in Norfolk, Virginia. First assigned to submarine duty on the U.S.S. Redfin, Petty Officer Walter G. Eife was transferred to U.S.S. DuPont where he helped to patrol the North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea for anti-submarine patrols. During the Berlin Crisis, Petty Officer Walter G. Eife was again called to serve our Nation on active duty, stationed on the U.S.S. McNair. There he helped to patrol the North Atlantic and Baltic Sea on U.S.S. Wasp CVS 19, as a member of Hunter Killer Group Bravo. Their responsibility was to track and find Soviet submarines. Following his time on the west coast at Radar/Electronics school, Petty Officer Walter G. Eife was assigned to serve on the U.S.S. Basilone where he continued to assist in the efforts of tracking and locating Soviet submarines until 1965, when he was honorably discharged on St. Patrick's Day in Newport, Rhode Island. Following his active duty service, Petty Officer Walter G. Eife valiantly served our Nation for another two decades in the United States Naval Air Reserves. As a civilian, Petty Officer Walter G. Eife utilized the knowledge gained in the military in his career where he dedicated thirty-five years to the telecommunications industry. Employed by Bell Telephone for twenty years prior to twelve years with AT&T, as well as another three years with Lucent Technologies. While working in the telecommunications industry, Petty Officer Eife served his fellow colleagues as President of Federation of Telephone Workers of Philadelphia, Local 12, which is recognized today as the Communications Workers of America. Petty Officer Walter Eife has been a resident of South Jersey for the last 48 years. He is the husband of fifty-five years to Marge Eife, father of four Haddon Township High School graduates, and grandfather of fifteen. Petty Officer Walter G. Eife is a lifelong fervent volunteer across several local little leagues and high school sports. He has been a committed coach, umpire, writer for the local Retrospect newspaper, and served as Treasurer. He is also a dedicated member of the local VFW, American Legion, Fleet Reserve Association and Knights of Columbus, and is the recipient of the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal and more for his service overseas. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring and commending Petty Officer Walter G. Eife of Haddon Township, New Jersey, a resident dedicated to his community, country, and those who have bravely served and defended the United States of America.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as an electrician and proud union member to congratulate Lonnie Stephenson, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) International President, on his retirement and commend him on his lifelong leadership advocating for workers. The son of two factory workers from Illinois, Lonnie chose to join an apprenticeship program with Rock Island Local 145. Starting his career as an electrician in 1975, he had a front row seat to the challenges facing workers in the industrial Midwest. Through his advocacy for hardworking people, Lonnie's leadership potential was quickly recognized, and he rose through the ranks of the local's leadership, winning election as vice president in 1984 and serving as president and assistant business manager before taking over as business manager in 1991. In 2002, Lonnie was appointed international representative assigned to the Sixth District, and in 2010 he became Sixth District International Vice President. During his tenure, Lonnie led the fight against the passage of right-to-work laws across the Midwest, making sure workers' voices were heard. In 2015, Lonnie was elected international president of the IBEW. He led the union through unprecedented challenges, including a Supreme Court imposed right-to-work laws on the entire public sector workforce in 2018. And in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered construction sites, offices, factories, schools, and more. Despite it all, IBEW continued to grow steadily under Lonnie's outstanding leadership. As Lonnie steps down, the IBEW counts more ``A'' members than at any time in its history. The IBEW Strong Program has established a membership that looks more and more like the communities its members serve. He built the closest and most productive relationship between a union and the White House in more than half a century. And he worked alongside congressional leadership to pass and then implement laws to improve worker safety, increase wages, create millions of jobs and make more things here in America. After nearly 50 years, Lonnie Stephenson leaves a stronger, more diverse, more powerful, and more optimistic IBEW. I wish him the best as he begins this new chapter.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend Borough of Lawnside resident Mayor Mary Ann Wardlow. Mayor Mary Ann Wardlow is the first woman to be elected Mayor in the Borough of Lawnside and has served the people of the Borough of Lawnside for more than 25 years. She was taught to protect and care for her community as if they were family. A virtue passed down through generations of her family that planted the seeds of service within her life at a young age. Some of her earliest forms of service began during her time in the Girl Scouts where she volunteered as a child. Over the span of the last 46 years, Mayor Wardlow has resided in the Borough of Lawnside with her husband Earl Wardlow where they raised a family. During her 27 years of service to the Borough of Lawnside as a member of the Borough Council, Mayor Wardlow sat on several council committees as well as the board of the Mount Peace Cemetery. Mayor Wardlow's history is written with examples of collaboration with her fellow council members and the integral role she played in securing funding for community projects such as the borough's Wayne R. Bryant Senior Citizens Recreational building and public works. Under her leadership, the Borough of Lawnside has successfully enlarged their Department of Public Works, built-upon their Police Department and obtained voter support of the community's children. In the face of food insecurity, Mayor Mary Anne Wardlow was able to court ShopRite following the closing of supermarket company Pathmark's location in the borough. Today, Mayor Mary Ann Wardlow tries diligently to live up to the image that her mother had planted into her heart as a child. Throughout her career, she has played an integral role in registration of thousands of voters and continues to serve those around her in a way she herself would wish to be represented. Her strong advocacy and work to promote the access and right for people to vote will surely be acknowledged and referenced for the future generations of public servants in Camden County. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring and commending Mayor Mary Anne Wardlow of the Borough of Lawnside, New Jersey, a resident dedicated to her community and who has thoroughly served them to the best of her ability.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend Winslow Township resident The Honorable Master Sergeant George D. Cathie Winslow Town Hall Honoree. Originally born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Master Sergeant George D. Cathie has resided in Sicklerville, New Jersey for more than forty years. A veteran of the United States Army, he served 24 years total; 6 years of active duty from 1961 to 1967 followed by 18 years of active reserve. Over the span of 27 years Master Sergeant George D. Cathie worked for Philadelphia Gas Works stepping into different roles such as a Gas Maker, Foreman Worker, Forman Gas Supply, and Shift Superintendent. Master Sergeant George D. Cathie served in Vietnam for 6 years and was in the first unit to encounter combat in Vietnam, known as the Big Red One. He served as a First Sergeant of the Intelligence and Surveillance Company of the Military Intelligence Battalion. He was honorably discharged after reaching the rank of Master Sergeant or E-8 and during his active duty service he was stationed at Fort Riley Kansas, Fort Bragg and Fort Dix. During his final 18 years of active reserve, he was stationed at Camp Pedricktown Army Air Defense Command Post. Master Sergeant George D. Cathie was a recipient of fifteen medals and ribbons during his time in the Army, including the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman's Badge, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the National Defense Ribbon and many more throughout his years of service. During his time in the service Master Sergeant George D. Cathie received specialized training as a Licensed Radio Telephone Operator, Second Class. In 1995 he began the Electronics Service Technician Certification program at Lincoln Technical Institute in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey from and completed in 1996. Master Sergeant George D. Cathie also earned an Associates Degree of Science at the University of New York, as well as Camden County College. Today, Master Sergeant George D. Cathie is an active member of Sergeant Ron Stewart VFW Post No. 303 and resides in Winslow Township, New Jersey with his wife Cassandra Cathie. He is the father of 3 children, Kimberly Cathie-Williamson who served 7 years in the United States Army; George D. Cathie Jr. who served 4 years in United States Marine Corps; and Tracy Land. He has been heavily impacted by his brother Gerald who served 4 years in the United States Navy as well as his grandchildren Jarrel, Brandy, Danielle, Chantel and Marcel; Jarrel also having served in the United States Army for 2 years. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring and commending Master Sergeant George D. Cathie of Winslow Township, New Jersey, a resident dedicated to his family, community, country, and those who have bravely served and protected the United States of America.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Congressman Brendan Boyle of Pennsylvania's First Congressional District and Congressman Dwight Evans of Pennsylvania's 3rd Congressional District, rise today to celebrate the retirement of Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO President, Patrick Eiding. Over the course 21 years, Patrick Eiding has served the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO to the best of his ability. First elected in January 2002, Patrick served a total of 5 full terms as the organization's President of the Council. Prior to his tenure leading the Philadelphia AFL-CIO, Patrick Eiding served for over 25 years as the Business Manager and Financial Secretary of the Insulators and Asbestos Workers Local 14 where he oversaw both Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Southern New Jersey. Throughout his career, Patrick Eiding successfully moved up through the leadership structure within the organization. Beyond his service to the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO, Eiding serves as the Secretary- Treasurer of the Philadelphia Building Trades Council; a member of the Executive Council of the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO; and sits on the General Board of the National AFL-CIO where he represents the Central Labor Councils located in the northeast region of the United States. He has been a strong advocate for the interest and concerns of working-class families while serving as a member of the union, board, and commissions for several organizations. Some of which include the Philadelphia Area Labor Management Committee, the United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and several more. Today, Patrick Eiding continues to serve as the newly appointed member of the Philadelphia Works Incorporated and actively participates as a commissioner on the city planning commission of Philadelphia. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join Congressman Boyle, Congressman Evans, and me, in honoring and commending Patrick Eiding of the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO, as we celebrate his retirement and dedication to serving the organization and their many working families throughout his career.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend Pennsauken Township resident Master Sergeant Micheal H. Scully. Originally born in Jamaica, Master Sergeant Micheal H. Scully emigrated to the United States, living in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania until 1997, when he moved briefly to Collingswood, New Jersey. Not long after his arrival in Collingswood, Master Sergeant Micheal H. Scully purchased a home in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey in the neighborhood of Del-Air, where he has resided for more than 20 years. Master Sergeant Micheal H. Scully joined the United States Air Force in 1994 where he served for twenty-seven years before being honorably discharged in 2021. During his 27 years of service, Master Sergeant Micheal H. Scully served in the Aircraft Maintenance group as an Electrical and Environmental systems Craftsman or Master Technician. He was stationed at Willow Grove Joint Air Base in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for 15 years. He spent his final 12 years in the service stationed at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland. Throughout his time in the armed services Master Sergeant Micheal H. Scully was able to see places such as Australia, Japan, Guam, Hawaii, and Poland, as well as operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, which between the two he has been 8 times. Master Sergeant Micheal H. Scully is the recipient of 37 medals and ribbons, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Naval Commendation Medal, Afghanistan and Iraq Campaign Medal, as well as the Global War on Terrorism Medal and several more. Master Sergeant Micheal H. Scully has been a brother of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated since 1996 and is a proud member and commander of the Veteran of Foreign Wars Post 1270 in Pennsauken Township. Through his membership to both organizations, he has helped to promote, educate, clothe, and shelter the youth as well as dedicate time to serve the veterans of Pennsauken Township. Today, Master Sergeant Micheal H. Scully works for the Department of Defense as an ISO inspector with the Defense Contract Management Agency. He lives with his wife Uraina Scully and is the father of his son Micheal and daughter Raven, who also served in the United States Army. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring and commending Master Sergeant Micheal H. Scully of Pennsauken Township, New Jersey, a resident dedicated to his community, country, and those who have bravely served and defended the United States of America.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of my union brother Brad Karbowsky. Brad is a longtime labor leader, who got his start installing fire protection systems as a member of UA Local 669. In his career that's spanned nearly three decades, he oversaw apprenticeship programs to train the next generation of workers. He secured pension and health care funds, and established worker protection initiatives to stand up for those being treated unfairly. This is critical work that upholds a core belief of the American Dream: that if you work hard and play by the rules, you should earn a living for you and your family and retire with dignity. So today, I want to honor Brad's work and wish him the best in retirement. He's earned it.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember a longtime constituent, Elmer Beach. Elmer passed away on December 3, 2022, and he left behind a legacy of service to our Nation. At 100 years of age, Elmer had lived a full life as a member of the ``Greatest Generation.'' He served during World War II as a proud U.S. Marine. He saw action in Guam, Bougainville, and Guadalcanal. And bore a scar on his leg from a Japanese dagger on Iwo Jima. He didn't talk about his service. But Elmer was more than a warrior. He was a father of 7 and a loving husband. He was kind, humble, and never complained--and he never stopped loving his country.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of marriage equality. The bills we write and pass regularly affect millions of lives. Rarely is the legislation we vote on so personal as the bill we are voting on today, the Respect for Marriage Act. My daughter and her wife are two of the estimated 26 million Americans whose freedom to marry will be protected by this bill. Their son, my 1-year-old grandson, Reza, can now grow up without risk to his family. Love is a precious thing. Madam Speaker, I know my daughters will now know our Nation respects their marriage. You cannot legislate love, but you can give love the protection of our laws. I thank the gentleman and I urge my colleagues to vote for this.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Rogers for what they have done in ushering this through. The Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee portion of this year's NDAA manages our Nation's security risk and keeps America's land and air forces the best in the world. I especially thank our ranking member, Mrs. Hartzler--this will be her last NDAA--for her partnership and always putting America above all others. Certainly, this is an issue before us. It is a bipartisan bill, and we have the oversight of many programs, including the F-35, while reducing risks to the industrial base, particularly when it comes to munitions. I can't adequately express my frustrations once again that the buy American provisions that would have strengthened our industrial base have been left out. Finally, I thank the professional staff who made it possible for what we do here each and every day, and I thank the men and women who built and maintain this great industrial base, the finest military in the world. Certainly, without my professional staff--Bill, Liz, Heath, Carla, Mike, and Payson--and my personal staff of Katie and Kevin, it wouldn't be possible. Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote for this bill.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Major Craig A. Overholt as he retires from the United States Army. For over two decades, Major Overholt's commitment to service has enabled him to excel in numerous leadership positions throughout the Army, including most recently as an Army Legislative Liaison. Major Overholt's career began when he enlisted in the United States Army in 2002. He received his commission as a Quartermaster Officer in 2011 after graduating as the Distinguished Military Graduate from the Georgia Southern University ROTC program. Since then, he developed a reputation as a tactical and technical expert, who has served in the most demanding assignments in the Army, including multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. I had the distinct honor of hosting Major Overholt as a Defense Fellow in my office. While serving as my Defense Fellow and as a Legislative Liaison, Craig's interpersonal skills and character enabled him to clearly communicate priorities, ensuring members were educated on Army combat systems, modernization programs, and policy initiatives. Due to his exceptional work on military childcare, the Military Officers Association of America awarded him the Colonel Paul W. Arcari Meritorious Service Award, an award that honors congressional staffers who have made significant contributions to the military community. Craig also led multiple Congressional Delegations to various locations around the globe, distinguishing himself by continuously going above and beyond the call of duty to serve the needs of Congress. This Chamber will feel Major Overholt's absence. On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank Major Craig Overholt for his outstanding leadership and remarkable sacrifices during his time in the Army Legislative Liaison Office and United States Army. I truly appreciate Craig and his family for their unwavering support to our Army, our Soldiers, and our Nation, and I wish him the best in all his future endeavors.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak on behalf of those struggling with the disease of addiction. The last few years have been brutal on Americans suffering from opioid use disorder. 100,000 dead of drug overdoses in 12 months. This relentless disease has left heartbroken families across the country asking why there isn't more support for loved ones gripped by addiction. Today, Leigh Ann Caldwell at the Washington Post reported that a cartel of clinics is trying to block legislation that would help address the opioid epidemic. Her article quotes a special interest leader saying he ``doesn't trust doctors.'' 77 million Americans lack easy access to a clinic, but he doesn't want patients to get treatment because he doesn't ``trust'' doctors? Maybe he wants to protect the monopoly these for-profit clinics enjoy. It is time for us to decide what is more important: Ending the opioid epidemic or the entrenched interests of the methadone clinic cartel. It is time for the Senate to help us get the bipartisan Opioid Treatment Access Act over the finish line.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak on behalf of those struggling with the disease of addiction. Over the last few years, it has been brutal on Americans suffering from opioid use disorder-- 100,000 dead within 12 months. These overdoses are horrible. This relentless disease has left heartbroken families across this country asking why there isn't more support for our loved ones in the grip of addiction. In today's paper, Leigh Ann Caldwell of The Washington Post reported that a cartel of clinics is trying to block legislation that would help address the opioid epidemic. Her article quotes a special interest leader saying he doesn't trust doctors. Seventy-seven million people lack easy access to a clinic, but he doesn't want his patients to be treated by doctors he doesn't trust. Maybe he wants to protect the monopoly of these for-profit clinics. It is time for us to decide that what is more important is ending the opioid epidemic. These cartels must stop.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, today, I rise in solidarity with the south Jersey Sikh community. This month marks 38 years since anti-Sikh rioters in India massacred Sikhs over 3 days. The massacre was retaliation for the assassination of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. There were mass rapes and lynchings. Sikhs' homes and their businesses were destroyed, senselessly slaughtered for nothing more than their beliefs and their religion. Following the slaughter, some of the Sikhs chose to flee India. Today, many of them call south Jersey home. They built lives for themselves, contributing to the education, economic, religious, and cultural richness of our region. They also carry the knowledge of those dark days. They keep the names and the memories of those who were lost in those days very much alive. In memory of those Sikhs lost to this senseless violence between November 1 and 3 of 1984, and with respect to those who carry on their legacy in south Jersey today, I stand here in solidarity with my Sikh brothers and sisters.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, Monsignor Michael Doyle was originally born in County Longford, Ireland and raised on a farm in Rossduff. He immigrated to the United States of America in 1959 after becoming ordained into the priesthood in Wexford, Ireland and dedicated his life to the pursuit of helping others and embodied the principals of transformational love. Upon his arrival as a member of the Diocese of Camden, Monsignor Doyle taught within the high school and had a hand in the success of fellow Camden city parishes such as St. Joseph's, St. George, and St. Joan of Arc. A graduate of Villanova University, Monsignor Doyle earned a master's degree in Education in 1962 and received an honorary doctorate in Humanities from his alma mater in 2007. He was installed as a priest in 1974 and was chosen and appointed as pastor of Sacred Heart Parish where he continued to serve for over fifty years. Monsignor Michael Doyle was also a celebrated poet, pacifist, and provocateur. In 1971, he was a member of the Camden 28, a group of anti-Vietnam War activists who plotted to raid the Camden draft board office until the plan was revealed to the authorities. Doyle and three other Catholic priests were eventually acquitted of their charges. In addition, Doyle helped plant crosses memorializing Camden City's murder victims in front of Camden City Hall when he felt more could be done to stem rampant violence. His activism extends beyond nonviolence, Monsignor Michael Doyle is a champion of education, improved medical care, community beautification, and affordable housing. Monsignor Doyle has been profiled by media outlets and documentaries for his work in the southern part of the City of Camden throughout the decades. As a literary force, Monsignor Doyle inspired residents both in and outside of the City of Camden through his sermons, poetry, and desire to improve the social justice landscape until retiring from active ministry in 2020. Following his service through Sacred Heart Parish and the Camden Diocese, Monsignor Michael Doyle remained steadfast in his efforts to better the lives of those around him. He could be found actively writing letters to parishioners in efforts to fundraise for local school children. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring the life and legacy of Monsignor Michael Doyle and his lifelong commitment as a dedicated humanitarian and advocate for peace within the community.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, on November 9, 2022, family, friends, and colleagues gathered at the Forsgate Country Club in Monroe Township, New Jersey to celebrate and recognize the retirement of Raymond M. Pocino from the Laborers' International Union of North America. In 1956, Raymond M. Pocino began his sixty-eight-year career as a general laborer. He has been steadfast in support of workers by developing innovative programs that support both members and their employers. Raymond M. Pocino has become a vital resource to industry leaders, elected officials and the business community by utilizing his rich experience and knowledge of issues involving economic development to create opportunities that benefit all. He has received several honors including the Philip Randolph Institute's Labor Award, the Alliance for Action's coveted Eagle Award for Leadership, Construction Man of the Year by the Building Contractors Association of New Jersey, Labor Leader of the Year by American ORT, New York City Chapter, as well as Labor Leader Honoree by the Newark Catholic Archdiocese. Throughout his career Mr. Pocino served as a member of several boards including Choose New Jersey, where he consistently advocated for New Jersey as an investment location, while also serving as a member of the board for both the New York Building Congress, the New Jersey Alliance for Action, and Commissioner to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. As well, he's served as a trustee of the Laborers-Employers Cooperation and Education Trust, and the Laborers Health and Safety Trust. We honor Mr. Raymond M. Pocino's commitment to workers and his service of five terms as Vice President and Eastern Regional Manager of the Laborers' International Union of North America. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in celebrating the career of Raymond M. Pocino and extend the greatest appreciation for his lifetime of service to organized labor.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, originally born in Pennsauken, New Jersey, Command Master Chief Joseph McMahon has been a resident of the Borough of Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey for thirty-one years. Deployed nine times in total, Joseph McMahon joined the United States Navy in 1976 where he served for twenty-one years before being honorably discharged in 1997. During his twenty-one years of service, he was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; San Diego, California; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He served on the USS Ponce, USS Barney DDG6, USS Conolly 979, USS Beagle Grove LSD 32, YTB 802 an ocean tugboat, Conningham and USS Forrestal. He was involved in two major military campaigns, the Persian Gulf War and the war in Bosnia. Command Master Chief Joseph McMahon is the recipient of eighteen campaign medals and ribbons, many of which he received on more than one occasion. He has been honored with the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (3 times), Navy Achievement Award (5 times), Navy Expeditionary Services Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, NATO Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, as well as several others. Following his retirement from the United States Navy, Joseph McMahon continued his dedication to public service, joining the Camden County Sheriff's Office as a police officer for fifteen years. In 2015, he returned to the Navy once more, working at the Foundry, an old navy shipyard. Command Master Chief Joseph McMahon celebrated forty years of marriage with his wife Diane McMahon on October 16, 2022 and continues to serve his community as a member of the Knights of Columbus and as the Deputy Post Commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 262. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring and commending Command Master Chief Joseph McMahon of Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey, a resident dedicated to his community, country, and those who have bravely served and defended the United States of America.

Mr. NORCROSS

Mr. NORCROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my late friend and former governor, Jim Florio--a dedicated public servant who cared deeply for those in New Jersey and the Nation. Governor James J. Florio was born in Brooklyn, New York on August 29, 1937. He was raised by his mother, a homemaker, and his father, an Italian American shipyard painter. Before completing high school, James Florio enlisted in the United States Navy and served for three years before his discharge in 1958. He continued to serve as a naval reservist for eighteen years, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Following his service, Governor Florio earned his high school equivalency degree from the State of New Jersey. He went on to complete an undergraduate degree from Trenton State College before earning a J.D. from Rutgers University in 1967. Prior to being elected to the New Jersey General Assembly in 1969, Governor Florio was the Assistant City Attorney for the City of Camden, New Jersey. He would serve in the General Assembly for four years, and in 1974 was elected to the House of Representatives for fifteen years before being elected Governor of New Jersey in 1989. Governor Florio was an environmentalist long before it was popular. In Congress, Governor Florio was the prime sponsor of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, known as the Superfund Act, which was one of the most remarkable pieces of legislation which cleaned up hazardous sites across the country. It was an initiative that aimed to reduce the number of toxic dumping sites across the United States and especially in the State of New Jersey. On January 16, 1990, Governor James Florio was inaugurated as the 49th Governor of New Jersey, becoming the first Italian American to hold the position. Governor Florio helped to craft legislation that led to the creation of the Pinelands National Reserve and signed the Clean Water Act, one of the strictest in the Nation at the time. He also oversaw legislation restricting semi-automatic assault weapons in the State of New Jersey and received the John F. Kennedy Profiles in Courage Award for his efforts in championing gun control. After his term as Governor, he was appointed as a Professor of Public Policy and Administration at the Edward J. Blaustein School at Rutgers University, and was also a founding partner of Florio, Perrucci, Steinhardt, Cappelli, Tipton & Taylor, LLC. In 2002, he was appointed Chair of the New Jersey Pinelands Commission by former Governor James McGreevey, a role he proudly held for three years before serving as Chairman of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York's Board of Directors. Governor James J. Florio was the beloved husband of 42 years to Lucinda (Coleman) and loving father of Christopher, Gregory, Catherine (Pipas) as well as stepfather to Mark Rowe. He also was a brother, grandfather of ten and great grandfather of two. Madam Speaker, on behalf of myself, the State of New Jersey, and the Nation, we are grateful for his service to our state. We lost one of our greatest champions, and he will be missed by all who had the honor of knowing him. My deepest sympathies to his family and his loved ones.