Steven Palazzo

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New Jersey for putting on this very, very Special Order so we can address a very serious issue that is plaguing our Nation. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, a standard of unparalleled violence against an innocent population in this country. The biggest casualty caused by Roe v. Wade are the 62 million children killed before they had a chance. Our forefathers believed that every man, woman, and child has a God- given right to life. Our Constitution makes no caveat for only those who can walk, talk, and speak. Because of my children and my faith, protecting life is a very personal responsibility to me. As a Catholic, I can testify how faith encourages strength of character, urges truthfulness, and prioritizes the sanctity of life. The sad truth is that you will find many of the politicians claiming to be religious actively rejecting each of these faith-founded principles. The most basic way to exercise faith is by adhering to the Ten Commandants, including thou shalt not kill. I appreciate all of my friends and colleagues in Congress who are standing up and speaking up for those who cannot today. I am grateful to know that there are Americans who will speak and fight alongside me on behalf of millions of unborn babies who cannot defend themselves.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in opposition to H.R. 5746. Late last night, the Democrats hijacked a bipartisan piece of legislation that I helped draft to allow NASA to lease property and help fund their own budget shortfalls. This bill would have been vital to America's space program and Mississippi's Fourth District, with Stennis Space Center in our backyard. To no one's surprise, Democrat socialists, hell-bent on minimizing the power of American voters, have jammed through their radical agenda to include this so-called voting rights legislation. This legislation only does one thing: It ensures that Democrats remain in power by tipping the scales by limiting your First Amendment and slashing States' rights. Why else would the Democrats spend so much time catering to noncitizens, giving them taxpayer benefits, allowing them to stay in our country, and now giving them the ability to unconstitutionally vote in American elections? Democrats believe that behind every illegal immigrant is a Democrat voter only waiting for a bill like this to pass. This legislation shreds our founding documents and bastardizes the sacred rights of American citizens only to appease a group of socialists. We all know that Democrats need every advantage to give them any hope in November after seeing their Commander in Chief's gross incompetence and tanking approval ratings. They have the slimmest House majority in history and an even split in the Senate, stalemated by a few Democrats who refuse to bow to the demands of this socialist agenda. Democrats know the American people reject their ridiculous policies, and we cannot allow them to cheat their way back into power with this bill. I strongly urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on this hijacked bill.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of the late Granville Crane, surviving crew member of the USS Indianapolis and recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal. Mr. Crane was born in 1925 and turned 95 years old this year. He joined the ship's crew at the age of 16, one of the youngest crew members to join at the height of World War II. In 1945 he participated in a top-secret trip to deliver parts for the first nuclear weapon ever used in combat and was aboard the same ship when it was torpedoed and sunk that year. Hundreds of men went down with their ship, and many more faced dehydration, shark attacks, and exposure before there was any hope of rescue. Of 1,195 men aboard, Mr. Crane was one of only 316 who survived. As Mr. Crane waited to be rescued, he clung to his faith. Mr. Crane will be remembered as a family man, a hero, a survivor, a patriot, and a great man of God. On behalf of the Fourth Congressional District and our great Nation, we are forever in Mr. Crane's debt. Our prayers are with Mr. Crane's family at this time. May he rest in peace.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remind the American people that our national security is still under attack at the U.S.- Mexico border. The violation of our borders has been allowed to happen and is even facilitated by the Biden administration for nearly a year. Since Joe Biden took office, over 1.7 million illegal immigrants have been apprehended at the southern border. What is worse, Joe is flying these individuals deeper into our Nation with a ticket you paid for. Because of President Biden's failed open border policies, more drugs have been smuggled into our neighborhoods than ever before. CBP estimates that nearly 1,200 pounds of fentanyl were apprehended last year alone, doubling from the prior year. Fentanyl flowing through Joe's open border has caused unthinkable harm by poisoning our communities and killing our children. The Biden administration's failure has had costly consequences. Cartels are profiting while Americans are paying with their tax dollars, safety, and lives. Border security is national security. It is time to stop risking the safety of innocents for the sake of politics. This crisis has gone on long enough. Americans deserve better. They deserve a closed border, and they deserve to be safe.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding military service of Lieutenant Colonel Randall P. Mantooth. LTC Mantooth honorably served in various positrons of increasing responsibility throughout his unprecedented military career spanning over thirty-three years, in which he displayed remarkable service to his community, State, and Nation. LTC Mantooth has proven to be an invaluable leader within the Mississippi Army National Guard, consistently demonstrating professionalism, positive leadership, and responsibility to always consider the wellbeing of his soldiers, state employees and contractors. LTC Mantooth obtained his Bachelor of Science degree from William Carey University, is a graduate of Air Assault School, Quartermaster Officer Basic & Advance Courses, Combined Arms and Services Staff School, the Support Operations Course, Theater Sustainment Course, and Command and General Staff College. LTC Mantooth is married to Lana Mantooth, and they have 5 children, Chandler, Lacy, Joseph, Hannah, and Katherine. LTC Mantooth's military assignments include company, battalion, and joint assignments. At company level he served as Housing officer and commander under garrison command. At battalion level he served as logistics officer and supply officer. Assignments at regiment and brigade level include Division Chief and Chief of Integrations. He currently serves as The Deputy Installation Commander at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center. LTC Mantooth distinguished himself through exceptional meritorious service as the Deputy Installation Commander, Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center. He is responsible for Master Cooperative Agreement, Integrated Training Area Management Program, Range and Training Land Program, and the Facility Management Program to include long/short range planning, scheduling, maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, and construction of real property for the largest National Guard training installation in the nation and First Army's mobilization force generation installation. Camp Shelby serves as a training installation for all branches of the military to include National Guard and Active DOD service components. LTC Mantooth is a true American patriot who chose to answer the call to serve our country. It is an honor to recognize his unwavering dedication to our country and to call him my friend.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding military service of Command Sergeant Major Gary E. Graham who will be retiring this year after over 43 years of service in the Mississippi National Guard. CSM Graham hails from Conehatta, MS where he lives with his wife, Julie, and their children, Micah, Jessica, and Layla. I want to take the time to thank his wife and children for their strength and support as a military family. CSM Graham served a long and impressive military career beginning in 1978 when he attended Basic Training and AIT as a Wheeled Vehicle and Generator Mechanic at Fort Jackson, SC. CSM Graham mobilized and deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2003 until 2005. Upon his return from deployment, he mobilized once again and assumed the position of Task Force Magnolia CSM for Hurricane Katrina Operations. From 2006 to 2011, he was assigned as the Commandant of the 3rd NCO Academy. He was then reassigned as the 154th Regimental Training Institute CSM. In August 2011, he was hand selected for NATO HQ Sarajevo Command as the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Military and Government leadership of the Balkan countries. From 2016 to 2017, he was appointed as the first Land Component Forces CSM. CSM Graham is currently serving as the Garrison CSM for Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center. For his outstanding service, CSM Graham has been awarded numerous prestigious awards, including the Bronze Star, Defense Joint Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, and many other federal and state awards. CSM Graham perfectly embodies the official organizational march of the United States National Guard ``Always Ready, Always There!'' He is a true American patriot and I am honored to call him my friend and fellow Guardsman. Our military servicemembers deserve to be recognized for their commitment to our great Nation and I am grateful for his unwavering dedication to our country.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, today, I commemorate the 75th Inactivation Anniversary of General George S. Patton's 3rd Army, 65th Infantry Division. The 65th Infantry Division was activated on August 16, 1943, at Camp Shelby, Mississippi under the command of Major General Stanley E. Reinhart. Upon completion of their training, the soldiers of the 65th Infantry Division were transported by train to Camp Shanks, New York and departed via troop ships on January 10, 1945, for combat in Europe. In the face of severe aggression from Germany, they were transported aboard ships from England to a barely functional France. The 65th Infantry Division set up Camp Lucky Strike despite extremely harsh winter conditions and low supply and food rations. During the Second World War, this unit fulfilled its motto of ``Right to Be Proud'' as they fought their way to victory. The soldiers traveled a total of 850 miles from Le Havre, France, to Enns, Austria. The soldiers of the 65th Infantry Division have been awarded numerous honors for their heroism and valor in battle. They received the Congressional Medal of Honor, 7 Distinguished Service Crosses, 11 Legion of Merits, 67 Silver Stars, 4 Soldier Medals, 690 Bronze Stars, and 19 Air Medals. On August 31, 1945, the 65th Infantry Division was inactivated. A few years later, veterans of the unit held annual reunions to provide support and encouragement to their comrades in arms and to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and did not make it home. They were just young men when they put aside their hopes and dreams to answer our nation's call. Today, on behalf of the 4th Congressional District I am honored to recognize the heroes of the 65th Infantry Division on their 75th Inactivation Anniversary ceremony. They are truly members of the greatest generation.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Mr. Speaker, today I will introduce legislation, along with 100 other Members, to recognize the centennial anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery. This Sunday, October 24, 2021, marks the 100-year anniversary since the body of one unidentified member of the Armed Forces who died during World War I was selected as the first Unknown Soldier. Since that date, an unidentified member of the Armed Forces from World War II, the Korean war, and the Vietnam war have been interred into the tomb. This resolution recognizes the ultimate sacrifice of the unknown soldiers interred at Arlington Cemetery and shows our gratitude and appreciation for all the members of the Armed Forces. Since the creation of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, members of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as ``The Old Guard,'' have protected this sacred site 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 100 years after the burial of the Unknown Soldier from World War I, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier continues to be a powerful symbol of service and sacrifice, mourning, and memory. I am proud to introduce a resolution that pays respect to our Armed Forces and honors the 100-year anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my colleague for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3175 which will designate the post office located at 135 Main Street in Biloxi, Mississippi as the Robert S. McKeithen Post Office Building. Robert McKeithen began his career in service to this great Nation and ended it in service to south Mississippi. Officer McKeithen graduated from the University of Mississippi and went on to serve in the U.S. Air Force where he earned the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Force Achievement Medal. He retired from the Air Force as a tech sergeant. After his service in the Air Force, McKeithen became an officer and worked at the Biloxi Police Department for 24 years. A testament to his selfless nature, Robert was one of 13 officers in the department honored with the Medal of Valor for his rescue efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. I am inspired by his spirit of service and strength of character. A great man and officer was taken too soon, but he will never be forgotten. Officer Robert McKeithen's end of watch was in Biloxi on May 5, 2019, but this post office renaming will provide for a daily reminder of his dedication and love for his community and our love and respect for law enforcement. I thank the McKeithen family--to include his wife, Pamela McKeithen; his children, Amy, Levi, Natalie, Logan, Lillian, and Lauren; his grandchildren, Delmas and Kaiden; his sisters, Melissa and Kathryn; and his brother, William--for allowing me the honor and privilege to introduce this piece of legislation in Robert's memory. Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support H.R. 3175.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, today, I honor the life and legacy of The Honorable John C. Gargiulo, United States Magistrate Judge for the Southern District of Mississippi. He passed away on October 3rd of this year at the age of 54. Judge Gargiulo was the youngest of six children, and was raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Judge Gargiulo was a decorated veteran who served in the Active Duty Army, the Mississippi Army National Guard, and the Mississippi Air National Guard. He deployed in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. After serving twenty-seven years as a commissioned officer, Judge Gargiulo retired holding the rank of Colonel. After serving on Active Duty, Judge Gargiulo received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Mississippi School of Law. In 2000, he was appointed as an Assistant District Attorney. He served as counsel in over fifty jury trials including three capital- offense prosecutions. He prosecuted two of America's Most Wanted criminals, resulting in guilty verdicts. He was awarded the Community Service Award by the Gulf Coast Crime Victim's Rights Coalition in 2005. In 2009, the Governor of the State of Mississippi appointed Judge Gargiulo as Circuit Court Judge. In August of 2014, after a rigorous screening of candidates by a merit selection panel comprised of lawyers and other citizens, Judge Gargiulo was appointed by the District Court to serve as a United States Magistrate Judge for the Southern District of Mississippi. He served on the bench for more than seven years, before his untimely passing. On behalf of the 4th Congressional District of Mississippi, we honor the memory of Judge Gargiulo--a loving father, brother, son, patriot, and dedicated public servant. I send my heartfelt condolences to his friends, his three children (Andrew, Jordan, and Katherine), his fiancee (Stephanie Ingram), and his brothers and sister.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Mr. Speaker, last week, I voted in opposition to one of the most radical attacks on the unborn that Congress has ever seen. H.R. 3755, the abortion on demand bill would create a dangerous national standard that would allow the execution of innocents solely because of their race, sex, or disability. Our Nation denounces those who devalue life. We condemn China and North Korea for their human rights abuses, and yet, we must reconcile with the fact that some of our Nation's leaders are devaluing the life of American babies. It is simple. Abortion is murder, and murder is wrong. ``Thou shalt not kill'' is not a statement to reject for the sake of politics. As a Catholic and a father, I will always defend the unborn. As a conservative Congressman, I will continue fighting to keep taxpayer dollars from being used to fund these violent procedures. May God have mercy on us all.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding work of Mr. James W. Mcingvale who is retiring from Ingalls shipyard after more than four decades of service to South Mississippi. Jim is a native of Batesville, Mississippi, and is a 1976 graduate of The University of Mississippi. He resides in Pascagoula with his wife, Nancy, with whom he will celebrate 45 years of marriage in August of this year. Their daughter, Brooke, will be the first to tell you that her father has been the ultimate role model and mentor in her life. She grew up understanding the value of hard work and dedication as she truly was a part of the Ingalls family. Some of her favorite memories are from attending the revered tradition of Naval ship christenings, as well as meeting the ships sponsors and guests. Jim began his career at Ingalls in 1977 as a photographer and has progressed through the years to various positions of increasing responsibility. Jim, has been a tireless advocate for America's naval supremacy on the high seas, through shipbuilding which helped to improve the quality of life for all Mississippians. Jim's list of accomplishments is extensive, a few highlights from his career include being a founding member of The Mississippi Military Communities Council (MMCC), and most recently, serving as the organization's chairman. In 2012, he was appointed by Governor Phil Bryant as a commissioner of GoCoast 2020, charged with defining how key priorities and leveraged resources can help overcome challenges faced by the Coast in the aftermath of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill. He is most proud of the impact made on the Gulf Coast while serving alongside Governor Haley Barbour following Hurricane Katrina. Although, he is retiring from Ingalls Shipyard, we are fortunate that he will remain an active leader in our community. Jim, congratulations on your well-deserved retirement. On behalf of Mississippi's Fourth Congressional District, I thank Jim for his service.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Mildred Mae Duke for more than 35 years of dedicated service as a federal employee. Mrs. Duke is the third child of seven. She was born and raised in Biloxi, Mississippi, where she and her husband, Mr. Summer Isaac Duke, reside today. They have one son, Jon Maxwell ``Max'' Duke. Mrs. Duke attended St. Michael's Catholic School from grades 1 through 6, and later attended Biloxi High School, where she graduated in 1974. Mrs. Duke's father, Mr. John Wallace Toche, served in the United States Army during the Korean War. As the daughter of a Korean War veteran, Mrs. Duke has always held a deep appreciation for our military. Mrs. Duke's federal civil service began as an employee at the Pearl Harbor Navy Base in Honolulu, Hawaii from 1985 to 1986. Her first position was the Administration Assistant for the Officer-in-Charge Industrial Hygienist Office. Mrs. Duke's drive and determination quickly became apparent. She was promoted in November 1986 to Administrative Assistant at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, at the 15th Supply Squadron until May 1993. After leaving Pearl Harbor, she traveled to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where she worked as Executive Assistant to the Director of Defense Intelligence Agency at the American Embassy from August 1994 until August 1996. After returning from overseas to her hometown, she was hired as the secretary to the Military Personnel Flight Commander at Keesler Air Force Base from July 2002 until January 2007. Since 2013, she has served as Executive Assistant/Protocol Manager to the Commanding Officer at the Naval Construction Battalion Center in Gulfport, Mississippi. Throughout Mrs. Duke's career, she has received 2 Civilian of the Year Awards, 2 Civilian of the Quarter Awards, 21 Exceptional Performance Awards, 2 Special Act Awards and a Civilian Meritorious Service Award. Mrs. Duke will be retiring this year, after over 35 years of dedication to the state of Mississippi and our great Nation. On behalf of the 4th Congressional District, we wish her the best.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize Rear Admiral John A. Okon for his profound leadership while in command of the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command (CNMOC) at John C. Stennis Space Center in South Mississippi from 2017 to 2021. Rear Adm. Okon grew up in Syracuse, New York where he married his wife, Valerie Gessner. Okon first graduated from the State University of New York Maritime College at Fort Schuyler in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology and Oceanography. He also earned a bachelor's degree in National Security Studies from the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island and holds master's degrees in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography from the Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey, California. While Okon's previous commands include locations such as Osaka, Japan, and Monterey, California, his tenure at CNMOC will be fondly remembered for successes such as procuring funding for a new oceanographic survey ship (T-AGS 67) built at VT Halter Marine Pascagoula, Mississippi, launching the Unmanned Systems Operations Center in the Naval Oceanographic Office, and endorsing a Memorandum of Understanding with NOAA to execute language in the Commercial Engagement for Ocean Technology (CENOTE) Act. He was also instrumental in overseeing several Naval Technology Exercises along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and Port of Gulfport Rear Adm. Okon has played an influential role in fostering community engagement by educating organizations on the critical contributions the Navy makes to our National Security. His collection of personal awards includes the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, in addition to various campaign and service awards. As the Congressman for the Fourth Congressional District of Mississippi, it is an honor and privilege to recognize Rear Admiral John Okon today for his selfless duty and commitment to the Navy and to the United States of America.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding work of Colonel Alben N. Hopkins, Jr., Staff Judge Advocate of the Mississippi Air National Guard. Colonel Hopkins hails from Gulfport, Mississippi where he attended St. John High School. His wife Jodie and 12-year-old son, Carter, proudly call Gulfport home. Colonel Hopkins has served in several positions, but none more fulfilling than serving his country. His military career began in 1990 when he became a legal specialist for the Mississippi Army National Guard. Colonel Hopkins has strong family military ties including his father, retired Major General Alben Norris Hopkins, Sr. Colonel Hopkins's extensive educational background includes a bachelor's degree in Arts and History from the University of Mississippi, where he was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. He received his Juris Doctorate from the Mississippi College School of Law and a Master of Strategic Studies from the prestigious Air War College. During his service, Colonel Hopkins was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, along with several other awards and decorations. He is also a member of the Mississippi Bar, where he practices as a civilian lawyer with his private law firm of Hopkins, Barvie, & Hopkins, P.L.L.C. He has a general civil practice specializing in litigation. Colonel Hopkins retired this month with over three decades of dedication to the state of Mississippi and our great nation. I thank Colonel Hopkins, and his family, for their service and sacrifice and on behalf of the 4th Congressional District, we wish him the best.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding work and dedication of Mrs. Nell Frisbie. Mrs. Janet Gynell (``Nell'') Frisbie was born and raised in Meridian, Mississippi. She graduated from Meridian High School and attended the University of Southern Mississippi where she was a member of the Kappa Delta sorority and a Varsity cheerleader. After attending Southern Miss, Nell moved to New Orleans where she was employed as a secretary for Continental Casualty Company. There she met and married the late William (``Bill'') Frisbie, an attorney, on June 10, 1961. In October 1962, Nell and Bill were blessed with a daughter, Joellyn. Nell is a longtime Republican activist at the local, state, and national levels. She has recruited and campaigned for hundreds of Republican candidates at all levels of government, including supporting her husband, Bill, in his candidacy for City Council and Justice Court Judge. Nell's passion for good government started at a young age. As a preschooler, she attended political rallies with her father. By the time she was a teenager, Nell was actively involved in local campaigns. Nell has gone on to serve the Republican Party in almost too many ways to name. She was Chairman of the Hancock County Executive Committee for two terms and served two terms as President of the Hancock County Republican Women's Club. She has attended seven Republican National Conventions as a delegate and was on the Rules Committee at the 2016 Convention. Nell was appointed to the Mississippi Republican Party Executive Committee and served as State President and 4th District Director for the Mississippi Federation of Republican Women. She has been invited to speak at Republican Women events in many states ranging from Georgia to California. Nell has had the honor of meeting former Presidents: Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, and former Vice President Mike Pence. She has worked to elect four Mississippi governors as well as many U.S. Senators and Congressmen and several state and local officials. She has a gift for grassroots activism and organization, using her network and leadership skills to organize campaign headquarters and orchestrate volunteer activities. If you want to hear a funny story, ask Nell about ``delivering a message to Congress''. Today we recognize Mrs. Nell Frisbie for her outstanding service to the Republican Party, the State of Mississippi and Hancock County.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding work of Mr. Robert Kane. Robert was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and currently resides in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. He is the proud father to two sons, John Regan and Sanders Burke. Along with his two daughters in law, he has been blessed with four beautiful grandchildren Anne Pierson, Waring, Kate, and Grace. Robert graduated from Louisiana State University in 1969 with a bachelor's degree in Political Science. Following his graduation in 1974, he obtained his real estate license in the State of Mississippi. Robert began his career in real estate in the hopes that, one day, he could open his own real estate business. As the owner of the Robert Kane Management Company and part-owner of Greater Gulfport Properties, Incorporated, I believe he has succeeded. Not only is Robert an astute business owner, he is also known for his tireless public service. In fact, in 2017, the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission found it only fitting to dedicate their new 8,000 square foot administrative building in honor of his 23 years of leadership as President of the Commission. For decades, Robert has volunteered with multiple civic, business, and social organizations. He is a lifelong member of the Hancock County Republican Executive Committee and for the past twenty years, produced one of the best barbeque fundraisers in Hancock County. Today, we recognize Mr. Robert Kane for his outstanding service to the Republican Party, the State of Mississippi, and to Hancock County.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding service of Captain Breanna Knutson. CAPT Breanna Knutson currently serves as the House of Representatives Liaison Officer for the Coast Guard. She ensures the Coast Guard's prompt response to the House's 435 members and staffs by coordinating and conducting policy briefs, preparing senior Coast Guard leaders for Congressional hearings and engagements, and planning and leading Congressional delegations to Coast Guard units throughout the country. She previously served as The Chief Pilot and Operations Officer of Coast Guard Air Station Detroit where she directed the operations of 5 MH-65 Dolphin helicopters, 26 pilots and 35 air crew members in the conduct of Search and Rescue missions on the Great Lakes from the St. Lawrence Seaway to eastern Lake Michigan. CAPT Knutson's first operational assignment was as a deck watch officer aboard USCGC MOHAWK in Key West, Florida. Following this assignment, CAPT Knutson was selected for Naval Flight Training in Pensacola, Florida and began flight school the summer of 2001. She earned her wings in the fall of 2002. In 2007 she earned a dual qualification in the Rotary Wing Air Intercept mission and deployed to the National Capitol Region ten times supporting National Security missions. In 2010 CAPT Knutson was assigned to the Coast Guard's Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron in Jacksonville, Florida where she conducted Airborne Use of Force-- Counter Drug missions, deploying aboard four Coast Guard cutters in the Eastern Pacific Ocean and Western Caribbean Sea. In 2014 CAPT Knutson was selected as the Executive Assistant to the Director of Department of Homeland Security, Joint Task Force--East, the first ever Joint Task Force of its kind. In this capacity she supported the Director and Executive Leadership in executing the foundational processes of standing up a new unit tasked with improving the Department of Homeland Security's ability to operate as a unified team. CAPT Knutson graduated from the United States Coast Guard Academy in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Management. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Human Resources Management from American Military University. CAPT Breanna Knutson is a true American who chose to answer the call to serve our country. It is an honor to recognize her incredible service history that is a true depiction of her dedication to the United States Coast Guard. I wish her the best as she continues her service as Commanding Officer of Sector North Bend, Oregon.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of James White who passed away on January 12, 2021 at the age of 74. I send my condolences and prayers to James's wife, Jeannie, as well as his family and friends. Chief White started with the Gulfport Fire Department in 1965 and worked his way up to becoming the Fire Chief in 1984. Chief White was a great leader and helped guide the department into emergency medical service delivery in the early 80's, making them one of the first fire departments in the area to provide such a service. He served the City of Gulfport with honor and distinction and was very well respected during his years of service with the Gulfport Fire Department. I know he will be greatly missed by many in our community. Although we are saddened by his passing, we take comfort in his example of a life well lived and the legacy he leaves behind. On behalf of the 4th Congressional District of Mississippi, we honor the memory of James White, a loving husband, father, man of God, and dedicated civil servant.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Ms. Susan Ann Shank who passed away on January 17, 2021 at the age of 70. I send my condolences and prayers to her family and friends. Susan was born and raised in Biloxi, Mississippi. Susan was the mother of Michael Wills and Angela Hoener. Susan faithfully served the City of Biloxi Police Department Communication Division from March 26, 1987, until retiring on November 26, 2013. In Susan's twenty-six years of dedicated service, she achieved the position of Floor Supervisor and received many written commendations from citizens for her professional service. Mr. Andrew ``FoFo'' Gillich, Mayor of Biloxi, commemorated and commended the lifelong devotion of Susan by declaring January 17th as ``Susan Ann Shank Day''. Susan will be remembered by her family and friends who knew her best for her devotion to the state of Mississippi, her faith, accomplishments, and devotion to others. While we are saddened by her passing, we take comfort in her example of a life well lived and the legacy she leaves behind. On behalf of the 4th Congressional District of Mississippi, we honor the memory of Ms. Susan Ann Shank, a loving wife, a dedicated civil servant, and a woman of God.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Ronald Lubritz who passed away on February 13, 2021 at the age of 87. I send my condolences and prayers to Ronald's wife, Carol, as well as his family and friends. Born in New Orleans, he grew up in the Big Easy alongside his brothers and sisters. As a young boy during WWII, his father instilled in him a remarkable desire for hard work, integrity, and love for his nation. Dr. Lubritz joined the National Guard and Reserve where he achieved the rank of Full Colonel and commanded a Medical Brigade. He graduated from LSU School of Medicine in 1959 and practiced medicine across South Mississippi for more than 62-years. In honor of his lifelong service to the community of Hattiesburg, the University of Southern Mississippi Veteran Center established a memorial scholarship in his name. The scholarship is entitled ``Dr. Ronald Lubritz Excellence in Medical Care Memorial Scholarship.'' Although we are sad to hear of his passing, we take comfort in his example of a life well lived and the legacy he leaves behind. On behalf of the 4th Congressional District of Mississippi, we honor the memory of Dr. Ronald Lubritz, a loving husband, father, man of God, and dedicated civil servant.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Hank Rogers who passed away on January 4, 2021. My deepest condolences and most sincere prayers are with his wife of 49 years, Nancy, as well as his family and friends. Mr. Rogers grew up in D'Iberville, and proudly lived and raised his family in South Mississippi. He is a 1970 graduate of D'Iberville High School and obtained his associates degree in Drafting from MGCCC. Hank was a principled man devoted to his faith, his country, and his family. Many describe him as a funny, quick witted, intelligent, strong willed, ``Southern Gentleman'' who was committed to his beliefs, maintained a strong work ethic and served as a mentor to many in the community. Hank was a volunteer leader having served as the President of the D'Iberville Historical Society, for two years, ``heading up'' many projects geared toward revitalizing his hometown. He was a member of the Mississippi Civil Air Patrol, serving as Wing Commander from 2016 until his death, advancing up to the rank of Colonel. We honor Mr. Rogers for the service he showed to his country and to his community. Although we are sad to hear of his passing, we take comfort in his example of a life well lived and the legacy he leaves behind. On behalf of the 4th Congressional District of Mississippi, we honor the memory of Mr. Hank Rogers, a loving husband, a dedicated civil servant and a man of God.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mrs. Della McCaughan who passed away on February 4, 2021 at the age of 92. I send my condolences and prayers to her family and friends. Born and raised in Pass Christian Mississippi, Della was the youngest child in her family and was honored to claim the Mississippi Gulf Coast as her lifelong home. Mrs. McCaughan was a teacher in the Biloxi Public School System for 44 years. She was the first person in the nation to teach Marine Biology at the high school level. Additionally, she wrote the first textbook to be used for that purpose. Della loved teaching and believed in her students, helping them realize their potential. Della was the recipient of many awards. Some of her most valued awards include: Shell Merritt Fellowship, Mother of the Year, and Teacher of the Year. She was awarded an Einstein Congressional Fellowship to work in the U.S. Senate as an educational advisor, and in 1994, received a commendation through Senate Concurrent Resolution Number 578, whereby the Mississippi State Legislature recognized her outstanding career and meritorious service during her years as an educator. Although we are saddened by her passing, we take comfort in her example of a life well lived and the legacy she leaves behind to all the young lives she touched. On behalf of the 4th Congressional District of Mississippi, we honor the memory of Mrs. Della McCaughan, a loving teacher, mother, wife, and woman of God.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Colonel Phyllis Luttman who passed away on March 1, 2021. I send my condolences and prayers to her husband, Walter, as well as her family and friends. Col. Luttman joined the Air Force in 1962 and was commissioned as a 1st Lieutenant in October 1969 after receiving her basic nursing education in New Jersey. She served on active duty for 30 years and in the Reserves for 2 years, later retiring in January 1993 from Keesler AFB. Col. Luttman served at numerous installations as an Operating Room and Central Supply Director including Otis AFB, Massachusetts, Bunker Hill AFB, Indiana, Tuslog Det 37 in Ankara Turkey, Sheppard AFB in Texas, David Grant Medical Center in California, and the Medical Center at Keesler AFB. Col. Luttman was very active in numerous professional organizations including the Aerospace Medical Association. She was elected President of the Flight Nurse Section from 1979 through 1980 and during her career received the Brig. Gen. E.A. Hoefly Award for clinical and managerial excellence. Col. Luttman was awarded numerous decorations for her service, including the Legion of Merit, Air Force Meritorious Service with two oak leaf clusters, the Joint Services Commendation Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal. I admire Colonel Luttman for her unwavering dedication to our country. Although we are saddened by her passing, we take comfort in her example of a life well lived and the legacy she leaves behind. On behalf of the 4th Congressional District of Mississippi, we honor the memory of Colonel Phyllis Luttman, a loving wife, a dedicated civil servant and a woman of God.

Mr. PALAZZO

Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding military service of Colonel Bobby Ginn. Colonel Ginn, his wife Vicki, and their four children hail from Tylertown, Mississippi. Bobby comes from a long line of family members rich in military tradition. His grandfather served in WWI and his father served in WWII, both mobilizing through Camp Shelby MS, the very same military post that Colonel Ginn commanded from July 2017 through November 2020. Colonel Ginn grew up working on a dairy farm, later becoming a cattle rancher. However, he had a desire to serve his country and, in 1990, enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves. He received his commission in 1993 through Officer Candidate School and served in numerous leadership positions including Company and Battalion Command. He became a federal technician in 1996 and was assigned to the Maneuver Area Training Equipment Site at Camp Shelby. In 2007, Colonel Ginn deployed to Iraq as a Company Commander serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His military career spanned three decades of exemplary service including his most recent leadership role as Commander of the Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center. Colonel Ginn has received numerous prestigious awards including the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Iraqi Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, a Meritorious Unit Commendation, and many other commendations including Federal and State Awards. Colonel Ginn is a graduate of the Command and General Staff Officer Course and earned a master's degree in Strategic Studies at the prestigious U.S. Army War College. Colonel Bobby Ginn is a true American patriot who chose to answer the call to serve our country. It is an honor to recognize his unwavering dedication to our country.