Ted Poe

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, today I have the distinct honor of recognizing a family in the Second Congressional District in Texas where Veterans Day is a daily family event. If you looked up the word ``patriot'' in the dictionary, you would most likely find a photograph of the 12 Ripkowski brothers in Dayton, Texas. The lives of all 12 brothers form a company of heroes that served in our military in various branches spanning from World War II to the Korean War. Most of them served in a time of war, and all 12 of them returned home. They truly were a band of brothers who fought for America. Their family story began in the small town of Dayton, Texas, in the 1930s. Their parents, Stash and Mattie Ripkowski, had 12 sons and four daughters. That's right, 16 all-American children. Their names are Felix, August, Raymond, Bernie, Alex, Leon, Bill, Herman, Franklin, John, Mike, Stanley, Catherine, Virginia, Pearline, and Anna Lee. The Ripkowski family grew corn and cotton on their 200-acre farm. As World War II began, the brothers answered their country's call of duty to serve in the military one after the other. Raymond served in the Air Force and was stationed in New Guinea. He was a radio operator and gunner. During his military service, he survived and recovered from an airplane crash. Bernie served in the Army and was stationed in Alaska during World War II. Felix served in the Army in Europe. August served in the Navy and was stationed in the Pacific. And Bill was also stationed in the Pacific, but he served in the United States Army. Stanley served in the Army during peacetime and then during the Korean War. Today only 6 of the 12 Ripkowski brothers are still alive. Alex, the oldest of the surviving brothers, is 91. He served in the Army and was deployed in Europe during World War II. Mike joined the Air Force and served as a chief clerk for 2 years on the island of Okinawa. Herman served in the Army as an infantryman for 3 years, and he was a member of the 78th Lightning Division, which was the first division to cross the Rhine River in Germany towards the end of World War II in Europe. After crossing the river, German airplanes blew up the bridge, separating Herman and his division from the rest of the American troops. American troops quickly built a pontoon bridge in the former location of the blown-up bridge. At this point, Herman's division met up with Russian forces outside of Berlin shortly before the Germans surrendered. It was during this battle that Herman earned the Bronze Star for laying communications wire during enemy fire. Leon served in the Army during World War II, and his tour of duty took him to Africa, Italy, and France, where he served in the infantry. By miraculous chance, he ran into his brother Felix in Tunisia, Africa during the Battle of El Guettar. Leon received five campaign stars while in the United States Army. Franklin served as a Merchant Marine during World War II dodging German submarines in the Atlantic. He crossed the Atlantic three times during his military service. Several years later Franklin was drafted again into the Army, and he served his country one more time, but this time during the Korean War. John ``Buster'' Ripkowski served as a squad leader in the infantry division in the Army during the Korean War. He helped take care of ammunition for his entire infantry platoon. All the brothers, except one, have spent the rest of their lives after the military in Dayton, Texas. Herman was the only one to move away from his family, and he moved to Liberty, Texas, which is 6 miles away. What makes the Ripkowski brothers' story so remarkable is how humble and modest they are in describing their family's enormous military contribution to our great Nation. Their humility is best understood in their own words: Mike said, ``We did it to serve our country. We're just hard-working country folk.'' ``Thank God we are here and that all of us made it home,'' said Herman, when asked to describe his brothers and their service in the military. ``You had to serve your country,'' said John. ``I enjoyed going into the service and doing my job.'' This band of brothers believed that their service in the military was their duty as an American citizen. To them it was not for performing heroics or to gain medals but to answer the honorable call of duty for our country. ``Medals didn't interest us,'' said Franklin. ``Our minds were on doing our jobs and doing it better every day. Nowadays a lot of people don't care or put much of their heart into it. But the military trained you to put your heart into it. I wish every person in America would go into the military for 1 year. It would make a better person out of all of them.'' The Ripkowski brothers' patriotic legacy of military service is one of the best examples of our ``Greatest Generation'' doing their job for America during the great World War II. They are an eternal example of the service and sacrifice given to protect freedom for our Nation. They're a good example for all of us, especially our younger generation. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, today I am proud to recognize a community leader in southeast Texas. Mrs. Beverly Hatcher has worn many distinguished hats, including mother, wife, member of the Junior League of Beaumont; Honorary Member of Delta Sigma Pi Fraternity of Delta Eta Chapter; Beaumont Rotary Club Member; Beaumont M.L. King, Jr. Parkway Commission; Texas PTA Honorary Life Member; Member of the National Association of Parliamentarians; Board Member of the 100 Club of Jefferson and Hardin Counties; Member of Leadership Texas, Leadership America and Leadership Southeast Texas; Vice President of Membership of the Three Rivers Council of the Boy Scouts of America; U.S. Small Business Administration District VI Minority Small Business Advocate of the Year; Port Arthur Weed and Seed Advisory Board; and '04-'06 Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison's Business Leadership Summit. Since 1990, Mrs. Hatcher has led the Golden Triangle Minority Business Council. As president of the GTMBC, Mrs. Hatcher helps educate, promote, and develop minority and women owned businesses by providing a variety of programs, services and business opportunities. Mrs. Hatcher and the GTMBC routinely bring corporate and public interests together for the benefit of southeast Texas by providing a unique partnership in economic and community development. By consolidating the interests and resources of industries through advertisers and mentors and making them available to minority owned businesses, the GTMBC enlightens and strengthens local communities by preparing business leaders for competition in a global market. Through Mrs. Hatcher's leadership, the GTMBC was one of only 29 applicants in 1999 to receive an award from the U.S. Small Business Administration as Small Disadvantaged Business Private Certifier. I applaud Mrs. Hatcher and the Golden Triangle Minority Business Council for working tirelessly on behalf of minority and women owned businesses. The knowledge and support that she provides to local businesses ensures that the entrepreneurial spirit will be nurtured, and tomorrow's business leaders will be prepared for global economic growth. I applaud Mrs. Beverly Hatcher on her outstanding achievements. She has helped make our world a better place to live, and I applaud her unwavering service and dedication to the community. That's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, America, as a Nation made up of many cultures, has always been one to embrace traditions of the past, while at the same time looking towards the future. Members of the India House organization follow this same time honored philosophy. Their mission to ``unite cultures, create bridges, and serve human needs,'' is a testament towards this group's significance. With over 120,000 Indian- American's residing in the Houston area alone, the importance for community interaction becomes increasingly apparent. As the Indian population continues to grow throughout South East Texas, so does the need to raise awareness of their increasing footprint. India House has successfully stepped up to this challenge through diverse organizations provided for all Houstonians. Services ranging from legal advice and financial education to yoga and meditation are made available by the organization. Yet, until recently the rendering of these positive benefits was somewhat difficult resulting from their dispersed locations. In order to better connect the needs of their increasing community India House recently broke ground on their new facility. At 100,000 square feet it will be the largest of its kind in the Nation, offering over 500 different activities to the community annually. Phase one of the projects will work towards further educating and assisting Houstonians, allowing them to thrive. This building, most importantly, will work towards meeting both the health as well as financial needs of the Indian-American population. Senior activities areas are also a part of the master plan, hoping to increase their social interaction. Yet perhaps the most important aspect included in this segment, comes with the availability to further ones education. Various classes, such as English, will be provided for members so that they may better become part of society. Showcasing and promoting Indian culture to the Houston community makes up much of the buildings second phase. The Cultural Arts Center is designed to house performances, relevant retail and craft shows, as well as food related events. By educating neighbors in Indian-American culture, this group takes positive strides towards becoming part of our Nation's future. While the initial construction concentrates on assisting members, this later development is particularly involved with celebrating tradition. India House recognizes the need to work together as a community, and to discern how to meet the needs of their population. Contemporarily, they are one of the largest legal Asian immigrant groups, with the highest level of educational qualifications surpassing any other ethnic group in America. Their impact on the future of our society is thus undeniable. However, the strides to become a working part of our Nation's economy and society through groups like India House, is unquestionably commendable. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 1060 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' Stated against:

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, southeast Texas is proud of the military men that it's produced, men such as United States Air Force Major Andrew Stone of Beaumont, Texas, who recently received the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor for his heroics while fighting in Afghanistan. Thus far, there have only been a handful of recipients of this second highest military award from the Afghanistan and Iraqi wars. On October 30, 2006, Major Stone answered a distress call from a Special Forces Unit that was on the ground and was trapped and taking heavy rocket and machine gun fire. Alone against this enemy, Major Stone attacked in his A-10 aircraft with a barrage of 30mm cannon fire. With no regard for his own safety, and while exposing himself to horrific enemy ground fire, Major Stone continued to perform cover over this trapped Special Forces Unit until they reached complete safety. He would not leave any of them behind. It was his selfless courage and bravery that enabled this U.S. troop patrol to escape. And as we approach Veterans Day, we honor our relentless warriors like Major Stone. And it's with great pride that I recognize this son of Texas and congratulate him on receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, several months after his 18th birthday, Donald Barrett joined the United States Marine Corps at a time when his country needed him most. When he enlisted, it was just weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the beginning of World War II. During his military career, Donald served the United States of America at Guadalcanal, New Guinea, Cape Gloucester and Peleliu. For his exemplary performance during his more than 4 years of military service, Donald was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat V, the Purple Heart, the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, two Presidential Unit Citations and four combat ribbons. Donald married his wife Eleanor Regan in 1947. She too bravely served her country in WWII as a member of the United States Marine Corps Women's Reserve. Later, Donald graduated from the University of Baltimore in 1952 with a Bachelor of Science Degree. He later received his Master of Business Administration from the University of Dayton. During his professional career, Donald retired from the Frigidaire Division of GM, from White Consolidated and from Don Barrett Associates, Consultants. Today, Donald and Eleanor have six children, eight grand children and three great grandchildren. The Houston West Chamber of Commerce has chosen to recognize both Donald and Eleanor for their dedication to the United States of America. Corporal Don Barrett and Sergeant Eleanor Reagan Barrett have been awarded the Chamber's ``Heart of Service Award'' for their distinguished military service. I would like to recognize Donald and Eleanor for being members of the Greatest Generation, who selflessly served to protect our country in a time of war. The upcoming Veterans Day is a time to honor all of the brave men and women who have so proudly worn the military uniform, especially those who served in the Great World War II. Donald and Eleanor deserve the thanks of all Americans because these individuals chose to protect freedom for the rest of us and made the United States of America the best country in the world. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, the French president addressed a joint session of Congress today, and he, like General Lafayette before him, talked about the American soldier, the warrior's courage, determination, resilience and love of freedom more than life itself. As we approach Veterans Day, French President Nicolas Sarkozy's words are appropriate to show how the world, that has benefited from the American GI, view our military. He said this morning: ``The men and women of my generation heard their grandparents talk about how in 1917 America saved France at a time when it had reached the final limits of its strength. ``The men and women of my generation heard their parents talk about how in 1944 America returned to free Europe from the horrifying tyranny that threatened to enslave it. ``Fathers took their sons to see the vast cemeteries where, under thousands of white crosses so far from home, thousands of young American soldiers lay who had fallen not to defend their own freedom but the freedom of all others, not to defend their own families, their own homeland, but to defend humanity as a whole.'' Mr. Speaker, the world's freedom fighter has always been the American soldier. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, being a police officer means dedicating your life to defending and protecting the local community. Great deeds are regularly performed by these brave individuals, who mean the difference between the law and lawlessness. Despite this fact, our lawmen and women rarely ask for any commendation in return for their valor. At the annual Greenspoint-North Houston Chamber of Commerce Law Enforcement Awards, however, some of only the many police officers were applauded. Recipients of the Distinguished Service award, Officers Genarrow Patton, and Rogolio Ramirez represent the true compassion of those who choose to ``protect and serve''. Perhaps the most significant evidence towards these lawmen's empathy is not found in highly publicized ``old western'' circumstances, but in situations where, without hesitation, an innocent life is saved. When confronted at the Greenspoint Storefront by a frantic couple with an unconscious baby, on the night of February 12, 2007, the officers coordinated response is an example of true heroism. A real life nightmare for the distressed parents; their baby's complexion was purple resulting from its inability to breathe. Without hesitation, Officer Ramirez immediately began administering CPR to the tiny innocent infant, while Officer Patton called for an ambulance. Because of these selfless individuals, the baby soon began breathing again. Although actions performed in the Greenspoint store front may not have involved detective work, stake outs, or the use of force, to this young child's parents Officers Ramirez and Patton represent true heroes. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, with all the discussion about protecting our vulnerable borders from illegal intrusion by smugglers, criminals and fortune hunters, Homeland Security is missing the obvious. Legal ports of entry are as easy for illegals to cross as the remote areas of America's porous borders. Media sources report that the Government Accountability Office did a study that showed at least 10 percent of the illegals who try to unlawfully enter the U.S. at ports of entry are successful. These failures to detect include drug and weapons smugglers and one individual who had an incurable type of TB who was allowed to illegally enter the United States 76 times. Homeland Security doesn't argue with the results of the GAO but simply makes excuses. One solution, however, is to require all people entering the United States at ports of entry to have a valid passport where the U.S. can record who enters and who leaves our country. The 9/11 Commission recommended the passport, but politics and the governments of Mexico and Canada and the open borders crowd seem to keep this common sense idea from becoming a reality. The security of this Nation deserves better. We need to use passports. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 1044, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.''

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, there is a new immigration law in effect, and even Federal judges refused to stop it. On November 1 it became a felony to knowingly harbor and hide illegals. It is against the law to give illegals driver's licenses or give them public benefits. Local police may now hold illegals they arrest for felonies and detain them for Federal deportation. And employers must use the new Federal verification system to determine legal status of workers. This, unfortunately, is not a new Federal law, but one passed recently by the Sooner State: Oklahoma. Apparently, Okies are frustrated with too few results from Federal enforcement folk so they passed their own State law on immigration. And good for them. Hopefully, other States will follow. Of course, noncitizen groups and the ``give America away'' crowd sued Oklahoma in Federal court. And they lost. Early results of the law indicate illegals are leaving Oklahoma, some even going back to their own country, as it ought to be. They are getting the message: come to America the legal way or don't come at all. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight to congratulate President Nicolas Sarkozy on his election to the presidency of France, and also welcome him to Washington, DC, as he addresses a joint meeting of this Congress on Wednesday of this week. I look forward to hearing his remarks in this Chamber. This past May, Mr. Speaker, Nicolas Sarkozy became the 23rd President of France. His election has ushered in a new and welcomed era in positive relations between France and the United States. The history of friendship between these two countries, the United States and France, runs deep and it runs wide. Since the American Revolution, we have shared a deep commitment to freedom and independence; both of our countries have. Perhaps one of the best early demonstrations of France's commitment to our shared heritage of freedom is the example of General Marquis de Lafayette--General Lafayette, a young Frenchman who believed so passionately in the cause of freedom and liberty for all individuals that he left his homeland of France and came to join the American colonies in their fight for independence against Great Britain. It was General Lafayette who persuaded the French to help Americans in their fight for freedom and independence from Great Britain. He served courageously under the command of General George Washington. George Washington's and Lafayette's portraits both hang in this hall tonight. General Lafayette is the only non-American portrait in the entire Capitol building, and is the only other portrait besides General Washington in this House Chamber. There is a reason for that; both of them, General Washington and his friend Lafayette, were committed to liberty for all. The American people will always be grateful to the commitment of General Lafayette and the people of France throughout our pursuit for freedom and democracy through the American Revolution. And the American Revolution was successful because of their help. In the same way, Mr. Speaker, we are hopeful that the election of President Sarkozy will renew the ties of friendship that bind our two countries and our long heritage together. On the eve of the election, President Sarkozy said that ``American friends can rely on France's friendship. France will always be next to them when they need us.'' We are hopeful, Mr. Speaker, that in the midst of many international crises, most notably, the threat of nuclear Iran and the global war on terrorism, that France will remain an ally committed to world peace and democracy for all and continue to pursue freedom for all peoples throughout the world. I am pleased to be the sponsor of legislation H. Res. 379, which honors President Sarkozy and his appearance before Congress. I look forward to his continued friendship and an alliance between not only him and the United States, but the people of France and the United States. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, radio stations pay a set contract amount for recording label companies to play their songs. Part of that money goes to the writer of the songs for each time the song is aired. But the performers get a set fee from the record label company, no matter how many times their songs are played on the radio. Now the performers want the Federal Government to charge radio stations a performance fee each time the song is played. That money would go to the performer. In other words, tax radio stations to subsidize the performers because, God bless them, they just don't make enough money. The Federal Government has no business interfering in the free market and subsidizing performers at taxpayers' expense. The music artists and their agents should work out a better contract with their recording companies. The proposal to subsidize recording artists would require the cost to be passed on to the consumers by higher advertising fees. Plus, the whole concept smacks in the face of freedom of the airwaves. The Federal Government needs to stay out of the radio control business, even if performers are just ``Singing the Blues.'' And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, Thomas Jefferson once stated, ``A democracy cannot be both ignorant and free.'' Our Founding Fathers shared that attitude. They knew that if American citizens failed to share information and were unable to speak freely, they would be worse off than they had been as subjects under Britain's King George III. Our Founding Fathers were former colonists under a tyranny that controlled information and freedom of expression. King George III suppressed free speech, especially speech critical of the Crown or the government. As the Founding Fathers debated what the new Nation of America should look like and stand for, they were determined free speech would be a basic right for all of us. After the States ratified the Constitution, our Founding Fathers set out to enact a declaration of rights. They knew that this was essential for our country. That declaration of rights later became the Bill of Rights, which includes the first 10 amendments. The Bill of Rights, Mr. Speaker, limits government control over us. The government does not have any rights. Government has power. It has the power we give it when we give up our rights that are listed in the Bill of Rights. This is an important concept that unfortunately many Americans fail to understand. And the first amendment is first because it's the most important. The first amendment states in part: Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech. Without the first amendment of free speech, freedom of the press, religion and assembly, the rest of the amendments are meaningless. The purpose of the first amendment is to permit free and open discussion about important public affairs. This is exactly what was forbidden under King George, so it makes sense that this was most important to our Founders. The Founding Fathers intended free speech to include criticism of the government and advocacy of unpopular ideas that are distasteful or even against public policy or even controversial issues. Freedom of speech allows individuals to express themselves without interference of the government. For over 200 years, the first amendment has endured without substantial alterations or limitations. This is a testament to the first amendment's importance. There are a few instances, however, in our history where the first amendment has been set aside, including a few instances of government censorship, such as sedition acts and wartime censorship. The most volatile and controversial types of speech are political speech and religious speech. That's why they should be protected the most, because they are so controversial. Congress would do well to stay out of the speech control business, especially trying to control the open and free discussion of America's two controversial and passionate pastimes, which are politics and religion. And besides, the Constitution forbids a speech police by Congress. George Washington said it very well when he said, ``If the freedom of speech is taken away, then dumb and silent we may be, led like sheep to the slaughter.'' And, finally, Voltaire, who lived right at the time that our revolution began, he said, ``I disapprove of what you say but I will defend to the death your right to say it.'' It's important and incumbent upon Congress that we make sure that we have open, free and even volatile, if necessary, discussion of America's issues, which are politics and religion, because that is the type of country we are, and that is what our Constitution and the first amendment stand for. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, today I am honored to recognize a Texas institution, the Orgain, Bell, and Tucker law firm, on its 100th anniversary. Orgain, Bell, and Tucker is located in many cities throughout Texas and was founded in Beaumont, TX. William Edmund Orgain, the initial founding partner, was lured to Beaumont from his native Bastrop, TX by the need for land litigation that sprung from the Spindletop Gusher and the Texas oil boom in 1901. With the onset of the second oil boom the firm's second partner Major T. Bell joined Mr. Orgain's firm in 1925 to help with business generated by the second major oil unearthing in Beaumont. John G. Tucker joined the firm in 1933 and the firm was coined Orgain, Bell, and Tucker. Orgain, Bell, and Tucker has, for the past 100 years, served clients with integrity in the areas of insurance defense, commercial litigation, utility law, labor law, and medical and legal malpractice. Community service, starting with Mr. Orgain's service on the Texas Supreme Court Committee, which wrote the Texas Rules for Civil Procedure, and Major Bell's service as President of the State Bar of Texas in 1942, has always been a core philosophy of Orgain, Bell, and Tucker. Through service to the great State of Texas and to their local community Orgain, Bell, and Tucker's history of service has influenced generations of attorneys and community leaders. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, I think it is wise from time to time that we in this House reflect upon our heritage, who we are and where we get our dignity as individuals in this country. As a former judge in Texas for over 22 years, I like to spend time in our schools, our elementaries, junior highs, high schools and even our law schools, discussing all aspects of the United States and our history. And I would often ask this question to the groups that I was talking to: ``Where do we, as Americans, get our rights?'' Sometimes asking that question would cause people some concern that made them somewhat uncomfortable, especially the elites in our law schools. I would ask those questions to not only law professors but justices on our courts throughout the fruited plain. But the answers would vary from the students. Some would say we get our rights from our parents. Others would say, well, we get our rights from the President. Even one student last week told me we get our rights from Harry Potter. But most of the kids that I would talk to and most of the professors I would talk to say, well, we get our rights as Americans from government. All of those answers, I submit to you, Mr. Speaker, are wrong because we don't get our rights from any of those entities. We talk about our rights, we claim we have rights, but we never talk about where we get them. I think it would be easier to describe a story that occurred shortly after the Iron Curtain, as Churchill called it, came down, the Berlin Wall, the wall that separated East from West, freedom from slavery. When the wall came down, there were numerous political prisoners in Eastern Europe that were finally freed but put in prison by those oppressive governments for exercising what they believed to be freedoms. One was a Prague, Czechoslovakian student who had gone to prison for 7 years and was serving time because he was reading on the steps of Prague University a forbidden document, a document that that Communist regime said that no one shall read in public. I would like to read a portion of that document here tonight. He quoted someone from the United States. In that statement where he spent 7 years in prison, he stated, ``We hold these truths to be self- evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, the pursuit of Happiness, that to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving the just powers from the consent of the governed.'' Yes, Mr. Speaker, that Prague student who spent 7 years in prison understood where his rights came from. It was not from government, but it was from the Almighty, the Creator, as quoted in the Declaration of Independence that he chose to read and cost him 7 years of his freedom, that Declaration of Independence that was written and authored by Thomas Jefferson. Of course that document was the status and the statement and the indictment against King George, not the people of England, but King George, the Government of England, for why the United States had a right to be a separate and independent nation. It was an indictment stating the causes, and finally the Constitution was the government that we set up to preserve the rights in the Declaration of Independence. We get our rights from the Creator. Because if we get our rights from government, governments can take those rights away from us at any time government wishes to do so. Mr. Speaker, 49 of the 50 States have in their preambles a reference to the Almighty. Many of those preambles mention the fact that they get their rights in the States from the Creator. The Bill of Rights in our Constitution limits government. Government does not have rights. Government has power. And government gets power from us when we choose to give up individual liberty and give up individual rights. Government has the power to control us and control our liberties only if we let it. So the Bill of Rights and the Constitution says government was set up to protect the rights that we have, those God-given rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. In fact, the ninth amendment to the Bill of Rights says there are more rights that aren't even listed in the Bill of Rights that we have. Mr. Speaker, on the Jefferson Memorial down the street from where we all are is written a quote by Thomas Jefferson which says, ``God who gave us Life gave us Liberty. Can the liberties of a nation be secure when we have removed a conviction that these liberties are the gift of God?'' Mr. Speaker, if we fail to acknowledge this legal principle of God- given rights, then we deny our heritage as Americans and our reason to be a free people. And that's just the way it is. State Constitutions--References to God Alabama 1901, Preamble: We the people of the State of Alabama, invoking the favor and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish the following Constitution. Alaska 1956, Preamble: We, the people of Alaska, grateful to God and to those who founded our nation and pioneered this great land. Arizona 1911, Preamble: We, the people of the State of Arizona, grateful to Almighty God for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution . . . Arkansas 1874, Preamble: We, the people of the State of Arkansas, grateful to Almighty God for the privilege of choosing our own form of government . . . California 1879, Preamble: We, the People of the State of California, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom. Colorado 1876, Preamble: We, the people of Colorado, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of Universe . . . Connecticut 1818, Preamble: The People of Connecticut, acknowledging with gratitude the good Providence of God in permitting them to enjoy. Delaware 1897, Preamble: Through Divine Goodness all men have, by nature, the rights of worshiping and serving their Creator according to the dictates of their consciences. Florida 1885, Preamble: We, the people of the State of Florida, grateful to Almighty God for our constitutional liberty, establish this Constitution . . . Georgia 1777, Preamble: We, the people of Georgia, relying upon protection and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish this Constitution . . . Hawaii 1959, Preamble: We, the people of Hawaii, Grateful for Divine Guidance . . . Establish this Constitution . . . Idaho 1889, Preamble: We, the people of the State of Idaho, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings. Illinois 1870, Preamble: We, the people of the State of Illinois, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors. Indiana 1851, Preamble: We, the People of the State of Indiana, grateful to Almighty God for the free exercise of the right to choose our form of government. Iowa 1857, Preamble: We, the People of the State of Iowa, grateful to the Supreme Being for the blessings hitherto enjoyed, and feeling our dependence on Him for a continuation of these blessings establish this Constitution. Kansas 1859, Preamble: We, the people of Kansas, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious privileges establish this Constitution. Kentucky 1891, Preamble: We, the people of the Commonwealth are grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties . . . Louisiana 1921, Preamble: We, the people of the State of Louisiana, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties we enjoy. Maine 1820, Preamble: We the People of Maine acknowledging with grateful hearts the goodness of the Sovereign Ruler of the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe in affording us an opportunity . . . And imploring His aid and direction. Maryland 1776, Preamble: We, the people of the state of Maryland, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty . . . Massachusetts 1780, Preamble: We . . . the people of Massachusetts, acknowledging with grateful hearts, the goodness of the Great Legislator of the Universe . . . In the course of His Providence, an opportunity and devoutly imploring His direction . . . Michigan 1908, Preamble: We, the people of the State of Michigan, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom establish this Constitution. Minnesota 1857, Preamble: We, the people of the State of Minnesota, grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty, and desiring to perpetuate its blessings: Mississippi 1890, Preamble: We, the people of Mississippi in convention assembled, grateful to Almighty God, and invoking His blessing on our work. . . . Missouri 1845, Preamble: We, the people of Missouri, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and grateful for His goodness . . . Establish this Constitution. Montana 1889, Preamble: We, the people of Montana, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty establish this Constitution. Nebraska 1875, Preamble: We, the people, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom . . . Establish this Constitution. Nevada 1864, Preamble: We the people of the State of Nevada, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom establish this Constitution. New Hampshire 1792, Part I. Art. I. Sec. V. Every individual has a natural and unalienable right to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience. New Jersey 1844, Preamble: We, the people of the State of New Jersey, grateful to Almighty God for civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors. New Mexico 1911, Preamble: We, the People of New Mexico, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty. New York 1846, Preamble: We, the people of the State of New York, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, in order to secure its blessings. North Carolina 1868, Preamble: We the people of the State of North Carolina, grateful to Almighty God, the Sovereign Ruler of Nations, for our civil, political, and religious liberties, and acknowledging our dependence upon Him for the continuance of those. North Dakota 1889, Preamble: We, the people of North Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, do ordain . . . Ohio 1852, Preamble: We the people of the state of Ohio, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and to promote our common. Oklahoma 1907, Preamble: Invoking the guidance of Almighty God, in order to secure and perpetuate the blessings of liberty establish this. Oregon 1857, Bill of Rights, and Article I. Section 2. All men shall be secure in the Natural right, to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their consciences. Pennsylvania 1776, Preamble: We, the people of Pennsylvania, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, and humbly invoking His guidance. Rhode Island 1842, Preamble: We the People of the State of Rhode Island grateful to Almighty God for the civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing. South Carolina 1778, Preamble: We, the people of the State of South Carolina grateful to God for our liberties, do ordain and establish this Constitution. South Dakota 1889, Preamble: We, the people of South Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberties. Tennessee 1796, Art. XI.III. that all men have a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their conscience . . . Texas 1845, Preamble: We the People of the Republic of Texas, acknowledging, with gratitude, the grace and beneficence of God. Utah 1896, Preamble: Grateful to Almighty God for life and liberty, we establish this Constitution. Vermont 1777, Preamble: Whereas all government ought to enable the individuals who compose it to enjoy their natural rights, and other blessings which the Author of Existence has bestowed on man . . . Virginia 1776, Bill of Rights, XVI Religion, or the Duty which we owe our Creator can be directed only by Reason and that it is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian Forbearance, Love and Charity towards each other. Washington 1889, Preamble: We the People of the State of Washington, grateful to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution. West Virginia 1872, Preamble: Since through Divine Providence we enjoy the blessings of civil, political and religious liberty, we, the people of West Virginia reaffirm our faith in and constant reliance upon God . . . Wisconsin 1848, Preamble: We, the people of Wisconsin, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, domestic tranquility. Wyoming 1890, Preamble: We, the people of the State of Wyoming, grateful to God for our civil, political, and religious liberties establish this Constitution.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, in the United States, we have an incredible history, especially when it comes to our Armed Forces. Today, I want to recognize one of Houston's own, the 147th Fighter Wing/111th Fighter Squadron Texas Air National Guard out of Ellington Field, Texas. Their distinguished accomplishments during times of war and peace have made them well-known not only in Texas, but across the globe. The 111th Aero Squadron met its beginnings at Kelly Field on Aug. 14, 1917. However, it was not until June 29, 1923, that the Squadron moved to its current location, Ellington Field. During the same year, they were designated a part of the Texas National Guard under the title of the 111th Observation Squadron, 36th Division. Their emblem, which is one of the oldest in the United States Air Force, known as the Ace-In-The-Hole, signifies their interconnectedness to the State of Texas. Its immortal stance in Texas culture results from the grandfathering of the insignia at its inception. This motion works to prevent any future alteration to the historical design. On Sept. 25, 1940, as the country was on the brink of World War II, the 111th became part of the federal war effort. Soon thereafter, the Squadron was reintroduced as part of the 68th Observation Group. Following a short assignment protecting the U.S. border, they began preparations for overseas combat. During the war, their initial deployments led the Squadron to the Algerian beaches, in Operation Torch. In 1943, the 111th was chosen to take part in the Tunisian Campaign of the Army's II Corps. Later, assigned to the 7th Army in Sicily, they served as the aerial support to allied troops until the end of the war. Respectably, this famed crew flew 3,840 missions from 1943 to 1945. While serving as the eyes of the military, they destroyed 44 enemy aircraft, damaged 20 and had 12 probable kills. Because of their valor, the 111th received eight Battle Stars, the Presidential Unit Citation as well as recognitions from the French Government. In December 1945, they returned to Texas as the 111th Fighter Squadron. On Oct. 10, 1950, the 111th returned to battle for the Korean War. Throughout this 22-month theater, they became attached to the 136th Fighter Group. The Squadron again performed gallantly and destroyed 1,343 railroad cars, 1,943 buildings, 88 bridges, 126 gun emplacements, 89 boats, 2 MIG-15 fighters and participated in activities that resulted in 5,578 enemy troop casualties. When foreign disagreements subsided, they were assigned to Air Defense Command on U.S. soil. Later, pilots from the Fighter Wing provided aerial support for American troops during the Vietnam Conflict from 1968-1970. Following the events of September 11, 2001, the newly renamed 147th escorted President George W. Bush and his father onboard Air Force One back to Washington, DC. Later that year, they were deployed within the United States in support of Operation Noble Eagle. The 147th was deployed in 2005 for Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terror. Continuing the Squadron's noted performance during previous conflicts, pilots of the Fighter Wing flew 462 sorties, with 100 percent maintenance delivery, 100 percent mission effectiveness along with 100 percent weapons employment hits while under extremely challenging combat conditions. Although the list of overseas wartime accomplishments for the 111th are many, so is the impact and assistance provided by the same men and women on a national level to local issues. Since 1989 the Fighter Wing pilots have utilized the C-26 Merlin to conduct counter-drug law enforcement missions throughout the area. Most recently, in response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the Squadron came to aid those in this area who needed it most. These fine Americans have and continue to provide tremendous service to the United States, the State of Texas and to the communities surrounding Ellington Field. I am proud to recognize the many accomplishments of this great group of Texas patriots. On the 90th anniversary, I would like to recognize these brave men and women for their service to the United States. I am also privileged to have served at Ellington Field in the United States Air Force Reserve, 704th TAS, 924th Troop Carrier Group, 446th Troop Carrier Wing from 1970-1976. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, the drug smugglers have gotten smarter. They now disguise vehicles they are using to smuggle drugs into America to look exactly like Texas State transportation trucks. They mask them with official decals and even license plates; thus, making it easier to bring drugs into the United States. Even though this criminal activity is highly organized, at least 11 drug dealers have been captured bringing thousands of dollars worth of drugs into our country using these fake State vehicles. But when the U.S. Attorney prosecuted these criminals, they received relatively light sentences. Some people received only fines. One received 24 months in prison, far less than the 11- and 12-year sentences that Border Agents Ramos and Compean received when they were prosecuted by the same U.S. Attorney for wounding a drug smuggler on the border. The U.S. Attorney's weak prosecution of drug smugglers is disturbing. The U.S. Attorney's Office seems to be more interested in prosecuting border agents than it is in prosecuting the real criminals that bring drugs into our country. The overwhelming message here is that a measly fine is just a cost of doing business: the drug smuggling business in America. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, when a veteran is buried in one of our national cemeteries, the flag draped over the warrior's coffin is neatly folded and given to the warrior's family. As the flag is folded, a statement is made as to what each fold represents. Two of the folds refer to Jews and Christians in our military. But that ceremony has been sabotaged by the National Cemetery Administration. Some bureaucrat banned the recitation of the meaning of the folds in the flag at all national cemeteries because someone complained about the ceremony being religious. To ban this time-honored tradition which recognizes life, gives tribute to our country and to our Armed Forces, honors women, recognizes fathers, and reminds us of our national motto ``In God We Trust'' is un-American and, frankly, it's stupid. I've been to funerals at national cemeteries of fallen troops from my district. I've heard the recitation of the meaning of each fold. I've watched tearful mothers and fathers and spouses hold that flag next to their chest, grateful for every fold. The Washington bureaucrat that issued this absurd ruling should withdraw the ban. It's unpatriotic, irreverent and disrespectful of our war dead. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Tennessee for yielding me this time, and I am delighted the member from Tennessee, the country music capital, is a cosponsor of this bill. I also thank the majority and Mr. Hinojosa for quickly getting this House resolution to the floor. I know there was some difficulty in doing it because of the timetable, but I appreciate it. Mr. Speaker, country music is definitely a sound that is uniquely American because it speaks to the heart and soul of everyday Americans. It is about the ups and downs of everyday life, as well as the struggles individuals have in this country, and the struggles our Nation confronts as a country. They are exemplified gloriously through the gifted songwriting of our country music artists. At no time is this more true than when songs are written during trying times for our country and for the unwavering support of our men and women who wear the uniform who are willing to fight and even die, if necessary, for this Nation. Toby Keith sang in ``America Soldier'' about our troops. He said, ``Up and at 'em bright and early, I'm all business in my suit. I'm dressed for success from my head down to my boots. I don't do it for the glory, I just do it anyway, providing our future's my responsibility. I will always do my duty. No matter what the price. If dying's asked of me, I'll bear that cross with an honor, 'cause freedom don't come free.'' Through songs like Darrel Worley's ``Have You Forgotten,'' and Lee Greenwood's ``God Bless the U.S.A.,'' Alan Jackson's ``Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning),'' Aaron Tippin's ``Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagle Fly,'' Brooks and Dunn's ``Only in America,'' and Charlie Daniels' ``This Ain't No Rag, It's a Flag,'' and Chely Wright's ``Bumper of my SUV,'' the thoughts and emotions of everyday Americans rings out all across America through country music. These musicians and their patriotic radio stations that air their songs of support for the military are to be commended for being on the front lines of encouragement to our remarkable, relentless troops. Like many in this House, I've been to Iraq; but also many of our country music singers have gone overseas to Iraq and every other place where American troops are, at their own expense to show appreciation to our American military for their loyalty to the U.S.A. It's fitting that we as a Congress take note of this and honor country music during the month of October. I urge adoption of the bill.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, crude oil prices went to a record high of $93 a barrel today. No doubt Americans will feel it at the gas pump. There are numerous reasons for the increase: mainly, oil producing countries are unstable. Mexico has cut oil production 20 percent because of bad weather in the Gulf of Mexico. Africa's largest exporter of oil to the United States, Nigeria, has had incidents where pirates have kidnapped workers from offshore drilling rigs. The Middle East is still a tinder box of uncertainty with Iran's nuclear development, Turkey fighting the Kurdish rebels, and, of course, the problems that persist in Iraq and Syria. All of this affects the disruption of oil exports. This, plus a weak dollar, means that crude oil prices will grow even higher. Until the United States develops a safe energy policy that allows complete offshore drilling for crude oil and drilling in ANWAR, we will be held hostage by Third World countries, rogue dictators, and political enemies. We have the ability to explore and drill safely our own abundant natural resources. We must take care of ourselves or the days of higher oil prices have just begun. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, the people in Mexico are expected to remain silent to the corruption and despicable acts among the rich and powerful. Sort of the philosophy: Sin ain't sin as long as good folk do it. Lydia Cacho refused to remain silent, and for that she fears for her life, has been arrested, verbally abused, imprisoned, and sued. Lydia Cacho, founder and director of a shelter for sexual assault victims in Cancun, wrote a book, ``The Demons of Eden.'' In it, she exposed and named the rich and powerful who lured poor young girls to millionaire Cancun businessman Jean Succar Kuri's home so he and his friends could have sex with them. Powerful politicians and businessmen had Cacho jailed for her work. Without explanation, state police whisked her away in the darkness of the night to a prison 900 miles away. So much for freedom of the press in Mexico. Lydia Cacho is one of several journalists that have been persecuted for articles about corruption in high places in Mexico. Lydia Cacho became a political prisoner of the rich, famous, and powerful of Mexico. Accusations against her should be dismissed, and the child sex offenders should go to jail. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE

Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, it's Islamo-Fascism Awareness Week. This week involves events on college and university campuses across the Nation to promote awareness of the ideology that motivates terrorist groups like al Qaeda and Hamas. While this event has sparked free speech debates on college campuses across the country, it has also revealed hypocrisies that exist in ``free speech.'' On October 8th, antiwar student activists covered the George Washington University campus with anti-Muslim posters. We now know that this was a hoax targeted at conservative student-members of the Young America's Foundation. Right after the posters appeared on the campus, the George Washington University Student Association Vice President, Brand Kroeger said he ``would support expulsion'' of the responsible students. The George Washington University Administration brought the conservative students into its office, presumed the students were guilty, and pressured the students to sign a statement disavowing hate speech. The students refused to sign the statement and said they were innocent. The students were then dragged before a university ``peace forum'' and subjected to heckles from their fellow students. After all of this, 7 antiwar activist students took responsibility. These 7 students said the entire event was just a hoax. Guess what happened to the 7 responsible students? Nothing! No disciplinary action at all! The hypocrisy at American universities is appalling. If you are a liberal student, you can say anything. If you are a conservative student, you are denied free speech by the public university. It seems that if you have one viewpoint, universities will punish and ridicule you, but if you agree with the universities, you'll be able to say whatever you want. There doesn't seem to be any equal opportunity in free speech on college campuses. Colleges and universities preach liberal viewpoints without presenting the other side. The politically correct nature of our higher education sparked the creation of Islamo-Fascism Week. During this week, students on college campuses across America will host events to educate students on issues that are not addressed inside of the classroom. The events include ``teach in'' panels and sit-ins on Women's Studies Department classes, to protest the absence of courses that focus on the oppression of women in Islam. Islamic oppression of women will be the key focus of this week. In one horrific example of Islamic oppression, young Islamic schoolgirls were shot to death in Saudi Arabia when they fled a burning building without their veils. In another example, an Islamic teenager was buried before being stoned to death for alleged sexual offenses. The Muslim American Society is protesting this week of events. The Society claims that this event is hate speech and promotes intolerance of Muslims. This isn't true. The event promotes awareness and intolerance of radical Muslim extremists and rightfully so. These extremists want to kill Americans. We should be intolerant of them. Muslim extremists are responsible for 9/11, for the USS Cole bombing, for Embassy bombings, and they target our soldiers abroad. We also know that Islamo-Fascists have waged a jihad, or a holy war, against America. The term ``Islamo-Fascism'' is not hate speech. It is not degrading to all Muslims. It degrades radical Muslim extremists. The term ``Italian Fascism'' doesn't smear all Italians. It smears radical Italian extremists. There is a difference between Muslims and radical Jihadists, who seek to destroy and murder people indiscriminately. Islamo-fascism Awareness Week is a wake-up call for American students. Our classrooms need to stop worrying about political correctness and start educating our students on the truth. The truth is that radical Muslim extremists are the greatest danger that exists for Americans at home and abroad. The truth is that women are oppressed by Islamic extremists. The truth is that we need to stop garnering sympathy for the enemy and start confronting those against America. And that's just the way it is.