Mike Quigley

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. I rise today because when it comes to Afghanistan, we are asking the wrong questions. And with the wrong questions come the wrong answers. Back in December, we asked, Should we send more troops to Afghanistan? We should have been asking, Will a greater military presence make America safer? Then we asked, How can we get millions of pounds of supplies to our troops scattered in remote areas of Afghanistan? We should have been asking, Could getting those supplies to the troops be fueling the very insurgency we are fighting, and is having thousands of U.S. troops stationed throughout Afghanistan making America safer? And now we are asking, Can a new commander in Afghanistan ensure we win the war there? We should have been asking, Is this war winnable, and will it make America safer? We have to start asking the right questions. The first of these questions is, Where are the terrorists? We have put our blinders on and are so focused on the details of Afghanistan that we are missing the larger picture. The terrorists that we are fighting are no longer only in Afghanistan. They are operating in the ungoverned spaces of Pakistan, Yemen, Somalia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and even right here in the United States. The Christmas Day bomber was from Nigeria. The Times Square bomber was Pakistani American. An increasing number of terror attacks are being plotted right here on American soil. Major Nidal Hasan, who killed 13 people at Fort Hood, Texas, was born in Virginia. An increasing number of extremists from around the world are being connected and motivated by ``the virtual Afghanistan'' through the Internet. We are fighting an enemy without borders, and so we must have a strategy without borders. In a world of limited resources, the next question we need to ask is this: How can we best spend our precious tax dollars to make Americans safest? Unfortunately, right now we are allocating most of our resources to Afghanistan, where at most, only 50 to 100 al Qaeda are operating, according to CIA Director Leon Panetta. And every day we read a new report that the billions we are investing are simply flowing to drug lords, corrupt local officials, and even the Taliban. According to a recent eye-opening report by Subcommittee Chairman Tierney, we learned that the U.S. military is funding a multibillion- dollar protection racket. A good portion of a $2.16 billion transportation contract is being paid to corrupt public officials, war lords, and the Taliban to get needed supplies to our troops. We are funding the very insurgency we are fighting. And we recently learned that at least $3.18 billion in cash has been transferred out of Afghanistan since 2007, mostly to line the pockets of the nation's elite. On top of that, it has also been reported that those same Afghan elite are being shielded from attempts to investigate these cases of corruption. We simply cannot afford to continue to send billions to Afghanistan only to see it end up in the hands of corrupt officials and the same insurgents we are fighting. We have got to start fighting smarter, not harder, and that starts with asking the right questions. A reassessment of our strategy in Afghanistan is due in December, and one question must be answered: Is this the best way to fight terrorism and keep Americans safe? I fear that with each report of Afghan corruption and each account of terrorism taking root worldwide, the answer to that question is becoming increasingly clear: no.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. To my colleagues, I appreciate their ability to pronounce names they're not necessarily so familiar with so well, and I appreciate those who cosponsored this legislation. About 3 weeks ago, several hundred brave Chicago Blackhawk hockey fans sat in Philadelphia and wondered why Patrick Kane was flying across the ice in celebration. He scored the goal that no one saw--the goal that has brought an end to 49 years of frustration for Blackhawk fans and exorcised the ghost of the demons of Jacques Lemaire in 1971. He helped make the Chicago Blackhawks the Stanley Cup Champions. It was a long, extraordinarily tough road for these players. Many of these players competed in over 120 games, when you count the Olympics-- an extraordinarily grueling task for them to accomplish this. But that goal set off a celebration that ended with 2 million people in downtown Chicago in a parade. It set off a celebration in Philadelphia among a few fans that were there from Chicago, and among the alumni of Blackhawks, including Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita, Tony Esposito, Denis Savard, and many others. Unfortunately, many alumni are no longer with us--Hawk legends who are forever in our hearts, such as Keith Magnuson and Pit Martin. But it also set off an extraordinary celebration in Chicago, which, for many of us, is still going on. There are many people to thank, the first of which, as far as I understand, is the only truly popular owner I know in professional sports, Rocky Wirtz, who combined his full efforts with dedication to bring a championship to Chicago; John McDonough, the president of the team; Jay Blunk, Stan Bowman, and Scotty Bowman, who were extraordinary in putting this team together and advising it; along with Dale Tallon, who's no longer with the team but to whom we owe a great deal of gratitude; defenseman Duncan Keith, the James Norris Memorial Trophy winner this year; Captain Jonathan Toews, who won the Conn Smythe Trophy; and a team of all-stars, including Brian Campbell. We had several Olympians who also competed. We have players who won the Stanley Cup and the Gold Medal in 1 year, which doesn't happen all the time. But my main message today is to all those long-suffering, dedicated Blackhawk fans who have enjoyed this victory ever since; the fans who understood what it was like to cheer for Pierre Pilote and Denis Savard and Tony Esposito in all the years in which we didn't quite make the playoffs, but they loved the ``madhouse on Madison'' as much as I did and look forward to many more years of excitement from this team that Mr. Wirtz has brought us. It was a wonderful night, and we appreciate your cosponsorships. Ms. NORTON I just want to congratulate my colleague Mr. Quigley, and I understand why he and Chicago are ecstatic. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this measure. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, today the Supreme Court affirmed sensible restrictions on gun ownership are constitutional. When the Supreme Court struck down Chicago's gun ban earlier today, it reiterated that communities can keep guns away from schools and out of the hands of felons and terrorists. But, today, the gun show loophole makes a mockery of sensible prohibitions like these. As the recent Pentagon shooting illustrates, terrorists can still easily gain access to firearms. A recent gun show audit conducted revealed that 74 percent of sellers approached by investigators completed sales to people who appeared to be criminals or straw purchasers. This is unacceptable. It is time to close the gun show loophole. Today's decision puts to rest the tired argument that any sensible gun control restriction is a slippery slope toward the revocation of all gun-owning rights. There has never been a better time for this Congress to reclaim the middle ground and stop giving terrorists unlimited access to unlimited firepower.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered Round Table, GLBTRT, of the American Library Association, the first professional gay organization in the United States, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Throughout its 40 years, the GLBTRT has worked to ensure information and access needs for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered individuals. In this welcoming and inclusive forum, they have worked to improve the lives of librarians, archivists, other information specialists, and library users who are part of the GLBT community. The GLBTRT acts on many different levels to advocate for their community. Through their work in revising classification schemes, subject heading lists, and indices, the GLBTRT removes derogatory and hurtful terms. They also strive to eliminate job discrimination based on sexual orientation. Additionally, they promote education awareness of all library patrons by ensuring unrestricted access to information by or about the GLBT community. They also support other minority groups advocating for better representation and equal opportunity in the Association. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the anniversary of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered Round Table and congratulating them on their successes and further efforts to reach equality in the library and information communities.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 5297, the Small Business Lending Fund Act. This legislation will help the small businesses in my district, such as Al & Joe's Deli, a family-owned business in Franklin Park with sub sandwiches to die for, that is looking to expand. It will also save businesses such as National Plumbing & Heating Supply Company in Illinois, which had to shut down after 60 years because banks ended its line of credit. To respond to these problems, I will vote to create a new $30 billion loan program to boost lending to small businesses so they can expand and create jobs. I also cosponsored an amendment that will include commercial real estate lending as small business lending. This will complement regular lending efforts and help businesses like Al & Joe's capitalize on existing property to expand and create new jobs. I urge my colleagues to pass this critical legislation.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, you have no idea how much I'm going to enjoy this, but sometime late last night, Patrick Kane put the puck past a Philadelphia goaltender in overtime, and the Chicago Blackhawks became the Stanley Cup champions. Congratulations to the team for their great season. Many of these players have played over 120 games this season, including the Olympics, to achieve their one goal. A special thanks to the owner of the Blackhawks, Rocky Wirtz--while hockey never left Chicago, he brought it back--the management team of John McDonough, Jay Blunk, Stan and Scotty Bowman, Coach Quenneville, and Dale Tallon. Madam Speaker, today for all of us, with apology, Chicago is my kind of town.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the murder of Dr. Tiller. Dr. Tiller was a respected physician who dedicated his life to providing women with safe access to abortion care, and who was shot and killed while attending his church in Kansas. Sadly, the experience of Dr. Tiller is not unique--since 1993, eight clinic workers have been murdered in the U.S. A physician in my district recently shared with me her own account of a scared 13-year-old who came into the clinic with her mother. The girl had been sexually assaulted by a 19-year-old and needed an abortion. The physician was able to help that young girl, but she confided her fear that someday she might not be able to aid young women who had no chance to prevent pregnancy. In the end, she said it's her patients who reconfirm her ``heartfelt desire to continue to provide.'' As President Obama said, no one is pro-abortion, but when faced with such a gut-wrenching decision, a woman deserves to have a physician like Dr. Tiller to provide her with safe, quality care.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, today I rise in recognition of the Chicago Human Rhythm Project's 20th anniversary. Over the last 20 years, the Chicago Human Rhythm Project's extraordinary community building efforts and celebration of American tap and percussive arts has firmly established them as one of Chicago's artistic mainstays. Founded in 1990, the Chicago Human Rhythm Project, CHRP, has maintained community outreach as the cornerstone of its success. Most notably, CHRP has educated over 10,000 students and provided over $250,000 in scholarships to students in need to study tap dance during the summer. CHRP has also provided a free outreach residency school program for elementary, high school, and cultural centers throughout the Chicagoland area. The cultivation of a stronger America through art is further exemplified through their participation in the ``Thanks 4 Giving'' shared revenue program. Since joining ``Thanks 4 Giving'' six years ago, CHRP has raised over $100,000 for charity. CHRP's dedication to community extends beyond Chicago, Illinois and the United States of America with their involvement in an ongoing cultural exchange program. This program has given CHRP the opportunity to spread American tap dance across the globe by participating in exchanges with Brazil, China, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, Switzerland, and Venezuela. As a result of their commitment to the international community, CHRP was selected to represent the United States of America at the 5th Anniversary Beijing International Contemporary Dance Festival in 2007 and the Gala de Estrellas Internacional in Caracas, Venezuela in 2008. Madam Speaker, I want to thank the Chicago Human Rhythm Project for their continued efforts. It is through their unabashed commitment to the arts and the community at large that they have helped to perpetuate the love affair with American dance and to establish Chicago as a global fine arts destination.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinct patriotic and heroic service of the Army Veterans of Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 501st Infantry, 101st Airborne Division, including three brave soldiers who lost their lives serving the United States in this Division. These soldiers of the United States Army made the ultimate sacrifice and dedicated their lives to serving the United States in 1970 and 1971. The patriotism and heroism displayed by this Division are profound and immeasurable. They left their families and friends to fight for this country. They risked everything to fight for America and its future generations. In battle, these soldiers faced extraordinary circumstances and physical hardships. For this, we as a nation are forever in their debt and grateful for their loyalty and bravery. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Veterans of the 101st Airborne Division for their invaluable service to our nation in time of war. It is my honor and privilege to pay tribute to these veterans and their families who proudly wore the uniform of their country, endured the rigors of war, and fought for our liberty and the freedom of future generations of Americans.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, June is ``Leave No Child Inside Month,'' a time when parents and children are urged to explore, play and enjoy the outdoors in Illinois. From Millennium Park to Lincoln Park Zoo, the Greenbelt Forest Preserve to McHenry Dam, families will be fishing, picnicking and learning beneath trees, beside beautiful lakes and amidst the natural treasures of Illinois. This January, I passed a resolution honoring the Chicago Wilderness and the 250 organizations that make up this group of environmental enthusiasts. They understand that children who grow up with an understanding of the land, air and water surrounding them grow into environmentally conscious adults. These adults are actively involved in efforts to clean, restore and preserve our precious resources. This month shows children that catching-and-releasing fish, playing with mud, and building a fort beat a video game any day. I look forward to joining the fun.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today because the Roar is back on Madison. My Chicago Blackhawks are Western Conference champions and just a day away from Game 1 of the Stanley Cup finals. Diehard Hawks fans have been waiting since 1961 for the Cup to come home to the Windy City. And it's on behalf of every last one of them that I want to thank the brain trust that has made this all possible. In just three years, Rocky Wirtz, Dale Tallon, John McDonough, Stan Bowman, and Jay Blunk have resurrected a franchise and reminded Chicago that it has always been a hockey town. Tomorrow night the United Center will be bathed in red and rocking so loud folks might just mistake it for the old Chicago Stadium. As I've said here before, I look forward to coming back this summer with Lord Stanley's Cup freshly engraved with names like Toews, Kane, Byfuglien, and Niemi. We're just four wins away.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the World War II veterans from Illinois who are traveling to Washington, D.C. with Honor Flight Chicago, a program whose goal is to provide as many World War II veterans as possible the opportunity to see the World War II Memorial here in Washington, D.C., a memorial that was built to honor their courage and service. The American veteran is one of our greatest treasures. The Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsman traveling here today answered our nation's call to service during one of its greatest times of need. From the European Campaign to the Pacific Asian Theatre to the African Theater, these brave Americans risked life and limb, gave service and sacrificed much, all while embodying what it is to be a hero. We owe them more gratitude than can ever be expressed. I welcome these brave veterans to Washington and to their memorial. I am proud to submit the names of these men for all to see, hear, and recognize, and I call on my colleagues to rise and join me in expressing thanks. Henry Adema, Richard I. Africk, Carl S. Ames, George R. Apato, Louis Bakos, Ernest E. Bassi, James R. Bateman, Charles I. Battaglia, Irving H. Bernard, Anthony Biancardi, Sigmund A. Bogdziewicz, Leonard J. Borth, Raymond A. Boss Sr., Richard E. Brhel, Robert C. Bruhn, Leonard G. Buresh, Albert Conforti, Charles Corte, Rene Couture, Charles F. Cummings, Charles F. Davis Jr., Henry W. De Young, Laverne Harriett Dennhardt, Joe Deprizio, Edwin Drzymkowski, Richard W. Ehrhardt, George L. Faust, Raymond Feltes, Robert Firnbach, Stanley P. Fundanish, Charles C. Giglio, John A. Gillespie, Ernest S. Gregory, Richard Guimond, James H. Hammock, Rudy S. Hans, Herbert Leo Hay, Martha H. Honigman, Joseph G. Houska, Harry James Howarth, Robert Jayko, Thaddeus A. Jelen, John Lester Johnson, Thomas L. Kablach, Waitman Kapaldo, Richard A. Karst, John Kearney, Walter L. King, Clarence R. Kleinfelter, Thomas Kohl, Antoni L. Kozak, Milford H. Lau, James W. Leichti, Everell B. LeSage, Martha B. Loss, James W. Maddin, Bryan W. McCarty, Joseph C. Montino, Dwane E. Moss, Vernon R. Nelson, Edmund J. Nowiszewski, Thomas O'Neill, John H. Ortmann, Edward M. Pasierb, Phaye Peck, Milton W. Pick, Morris Picker, Edward S. Pietrucha, Bruno G. Quagliani, James S. Rosenbaum, Odean A. Rosenberg, Walter B. Rutkowski, Donald J. Schommer, Raymond T. Schwartz, Saul Seltzer, Robert S. Smith, Donald St. Hilaire, Robert J. Starzynski, Howard F. Stateman, Arthur R. Stratemeyer, Alvin Franklin Swenson, Lee R. Tolksdorf, Walter Trzesniewski, Lester S. VanDeursen, John L. Vinke, George C. Walczak, Clarence James Williams.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today in support of Mr. Murphy's amendment to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell. At its core, this is a vote against discrimination and division, a symbolic gesture to the country and the world that Congress' commitment to equality will always triumph over inequality. As LGBT activist David Mixner said at the inception of this unfortunate policy: ``They frighten our neighbors with the big lie. They paint pictures that only contain dark colors. They resort to the same bigoted arguments that have been used for centuries to deny every minority their freedom and equal rights.'' Today we must rise up against these forces that conspire against progress and equality in every generation. Today, it is our turn to send a message to the Nation: Congress will never again sanction bigotry in our Armed Forces.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge the U.N. Security Council to reject Iran's attempt to continue down the path of nuclear proliferation. Iran would have us believe that the nuclear deal it reached with Brazil and Turkey was of the same caliber as the offer Tehran rejected in October. The truth is, it's not even close. This agreement would allow Iran to pursue richer-grade uranium, keep more of its nuclear materials, and maintain access to the dangerous supplies it would send to Turkey. The Security Council must recognize the severity of this threat posed by a nuclear Iran. It must choose a deal based on substance over convenience. But most of all, it must remember the safety and security of the State of Israel and the Israeli people. In the face of Iran's latest diplomatic diversion, it is more important than ever that we levy real sanctions against a nation bent on destroying a friend. The future of Israel--our most important ally-- depends on it.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, in Ernie Harwell's famous definition of baseball, he wrote that it was ``just a game, as simple as a ball and bat; yet as complex as the American spirit it symbolizes.'' There was nothing complex, however, about what one of baseball's most iconic broadcasters meant to us all. Ernie lent his voice to one of America's deepest loves for more than 50 years, most of them calling games for his beloved Detroit Tigers. He passed away a few short weeks ago at the age of 92. Ernie brought Tiger Stadium into Michigan living rooms from Hamtramck to Bloomfield, and made the old ballpark at the corner of Michigan and Trumbull feel like a neighborhood sandlot. He'd call out the hometowns of fans who caught foul balls as if he knew all 35,000 of them by name. The beauty of his commentary was in its understated grace--simple, earnest, and full of insight. Ernie was the rare broadcaster who made you feel like you were in the stadium. He'd tell you the score at least once a minute, but never fell victim to the need to hear himself speak. A silence filled with the hum of the crowd and the call of a vendor was almost as important to his broadcast style as the vignettes from every era of the game that peppered his play-by-play. For Ernie's faithful listeners spring was a time of hope and rebirth, as he welcomed four decades of spring training seasons with a familiar Psalm: ``For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; the flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land.'' It is the kind of hope we can all relate to, especially fans of a certain team in my district who believe that every year might just be ``next year.'' When Ernie retired from broadcasting in a moving on-field ceremony in 2002, he told us ``rather than say good-bye, please allow me to say thank you.'' Today, it's our turn. Thank you, Ernie, for all the memories. You will be missed.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, in Ernie Harwell's famous definition of baseball, he wrote that it was ``just a game, as simple as a ball and bat; yet as complex as the American spirit it symbolizes.'' There was nothing complex, however, about what one of baseball's most iconic broadcasters meant to us all. Ernie lent his voice to one of America's deepest loves for more than 50 years, most of them calling games for his beloved Detroit Tigers. He passed away a few short weeks ago at the age of 92. Ernie brought Tiger Stadium into Michigan living rooms from Hamtramck to Bloomfield, and made the old ballpark at the corner of Michigan and Trumbull feel like a neighborhood sandlot. He'd call out the hometowns of fans who caught foul balls as if he knew all 35,000 of them by name. The beauty of his commentary was in its understated grace--simple, earnest, and full of insight. Ernie was the rare broadcaster who made you feel like you were in the stadium. He'd tell you the score at least once a minute, but never fell victim to the need to hear himself speak. A silence filled with the hum of the crowd and the call of a vendor was almost as important to his broadcast style as the vignettes from every era of the game that peppered his play-by-play. For Ernie's faithful listeners spring was a time of hope and rebirth, as he welcomed four decades of spring training seasons with a familiar Psalm: ``For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; the flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land.'' It is the kind of hope we can all relate to, especially fans of a certain team in my district who believe that every year might just be ``next year.'' When Ernie retired from broadcasting in a moving on-field ceremony in 2002, he told us ``rather than say good-bye, please allow me to say thank you.'' Today, it's our turn. Thank you, Ernie, for all the memories. You will be missed.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, the public's trust in government is near an all-time low. According to a recent CBS/New York Times survey, only 19 percent of the people said they trust the government to do what is right. This deficit of trust is not inconsequential. Without the public's trust, we cannot effectively govern; but we can rebuild this lost confidence by opening up the government and making its inner workings more transparent. I recently introduced H.R. 4983, the Transparency in Government Act, a bill that calls for unprecedented government transparency. H.R. 4983 increases disclosures from lobbyists and lawmakers, creates the first centralized earmark database, and improves oversight of Federal contracts. As Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis said: Sunlight is the best of disinfectants. And at a time when the public's trust in government is perilously low, we could use a bit of sunlight. And go, Black Hawks.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues for their kind words on this matter. I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 1143, a bipartisan resolution commending the Community of Democracies on its 10-year anniversary. The Community of Democracies is a truly global, intergovernmental organization of democratic nations. The organization seeks to promote democracy and strengthen democratic institutions around the world. Spearheaded by former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, the overarching goal was to create a global community of democratic nations. Secretary Albright's vision became a reality in 2000 when 106 nations came together in Warsaw to launch the Community of Democracies. This July marks the 10-year anniversary, and my resolution honors their achievements over the last decade. The resolution also expresses hope for success at the anniversary conference to be held in Krakow this July. Honoring the Community has always been important, but in light of the recent tragedy in Poland, the significance of this resolution has dramatically increased. The Community of Democracies has deep ties with Poland and Polish leaders. The organization was founded in Warsaw, Poland, under the leadership of then-Minister of Foreign Affairs of Poland Bronislaw Geremek. It was the Government of Poland that initiated the establishment of a Permanent Secretariat in Warsaw in January 2009 to strengthen the institution. It is fitting, therefore, that Poland will host the anniversary conference. Poland has endured much sorrow recently, but we know the country and her people will find the resilience to emerge stronger, as they have before, following this unimaginable tragedy. This resolution honors those democratic institutions exemplified by Poland and by every other democracy throughout the world. I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 1143, commending the Community of Democracies.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the contributions made by the Croatian American Association for enriching the lives of native Croatians and Croatian-Americans alike for the past 20 years. The Croatian American Association was established in 1990, when it began advocating for the establishment of a sovereign and independent Democratic Republic of Croatia. Its efforts led to public demonstrations in Washington, DC attended by over 50,000 people in support of Croatian democracy. Furthermore, its members have organized rallies throughout America to raise money for the defense of Croatia and to make humanitarian aid available for Croatians living at home and abroad. The Croatian American Association has also worked tirelessly with the U.S. government in order to help address the concerns of many Croatian- Americans. It has established an office in Washington, DC to help lobby and educate Members of Congress about Croatian history, and the desire for a sovereign Democratic Republic of Croatia. In addition, it has pushed for the inclusion of Croatia into NATO, the Partnership for Peace, and the European Union. The Croatian American Association has also worked to establish an Embassy of The Republic of Croatia, and to further provide services to Croatian-Americans by establishing a number of consulates in many major U.S. cities. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Croatian American Association and its members for their 20 years of service as an invaluable partner to Croatians throughout the world, and to wish them many more years of continued success.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, the Secretary of Defense has asked Congress not to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell until the Pentagon has another year to review the policy. With all due respect, we've been reviewing the policy since its implementation in 1993. To paraphrase the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, here are some reasons why we can't wait: Another year of dismissals will add to the 13,500 who have already been fired under the law since 1994. Another year will reduce the ranks of mission-critical troops and linguists, harming our national security. Another year will mean we will continue to allow young patriots to lose their lives for us but not allow them to live the lives they choose. Our troops agree, our allies agree, and leaders of our Nation agree we must repeal this policy now. Dr. King wrote: ``The time is always right to do what is right.'' Madam Speaker, that is why we can't wait.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Michael A. Robbins, who served the City of Chicago and the Chicago Police Department for 22 years before his untimely death on September 13, 2008. A South Side Chicago native, Robbins enlisted in the Navy shortly after graduating high school and was awarded the Bronze Star for his meritorious service during the Vietnam War. His dedication to public service continued when he joined the Chicago Police Department in 1986 and then went on to serve the United States military in the Navy Reserve. On September 10, 1994, Officer Robbins responded to a call of shots fired in a neighborhood with a high level of gang activity. When he arrived he was fired upon repeatedly, resulting in 11 bullet wounds. Although he made a strong recovery, three of the bullets remained lodged in his heart. As a result of this experience Michael Robbins became an avid activist urging better gun control laws. Most notably, he spoke on the issue at the 1996 National Democratic Convention and later served as a victims' advocate for Fight Crime: Invest in Kids. On September 13, 2008, Officer Robbins was found dead in his home as a result of the bullets still lodged in his heart. Michael Robbins will forever be remembered for his dedication to making the City of Chicago and the United States a safer place. I rise today, representing the City of Chicago, to express my deepest gratitude and sympathy to Officer Robbins's family for his dedication and courageous commitment to our communities. Officer Robbins will forever be remembered for his heroic sacrifice by the addition of his name to the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, DC on May 15, 2010.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Alejandro Valadez, who honorably served the City of Chicago as a member of the Chicago Police Department for 3 years before his untimely death on June 1, 2009. At just 27 years of age, Officer Valadez maintained a strong reputation for outstanding performance and professionalism on the job. Within his three short years of serving the Chicago Police Department he was awarded a department commendation and 22 honorable mentions. A South Side Chicago native, Officer Valadez lived his life with honesty, integrity, and courage never wavering from the task at hand. Alejandro was known to love his job and gladly served the Chicago police force alongside his brother, sister, and expectant girlfriend. On June 1, 2009, Officer Valadez made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the residents of the Englewood community in Chicago. Shortly after midnight, he and his partner were questioning several residents when a vehicle drove up to them and opened fire. Bullets struck Valadez once in the leg and once in the head. He was later rushed to John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital where he died the next morning. I rise today, representing with the City of Chicago, to express my deepest gratitude and sympathy to Officer Valadez's family for his dedication and courageous commitment to keeping our communities safe. Chicago and the United States will forever remember Alejandro Valadez for his heroic sacrifice by the addition of his name to the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, DC, on May 15, 2010.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today because Wall Street reform needs to happen today. Lehman Brothers and AIG collapsed over a year- and-a-half ago, but our regulators still lack the basic power to enforce consumer financial protections and prevent future taxpayer bailouts of large financial firms. Wall Street reform will safeguard against the deceptive financial products that destabilized the entire economy and caused the crisis. Wall Street reform will establish an orderly process to shut down large failing financial firms like AIG or Lehman Brothers at no cost to taxpayers. Wall Street reform will protect investors from fraudulent investments like Madoff's $65 billion Ponzi scheme. Wall Street reform will ensure that consumers aren't steered to bad, unaffordable mortgages when they qualify for good ones. We need Wall Street reform now to ensure we never repeat the events of the financial crisis.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, this month marks Jewish American Heritage Month. So now seems a fitting time to look back on the history of the State of Israel and remember it accurately. In recent weeks there has been much attention paid to the announcement of new construction in East Jerusalem. Lost in the debate were some basic facts about settlements and the historical context that must be remembered. Today I want to set the record straight and outline six key facts about settlements. No. 1, the construction under debate is not in Arab East Jerusalem, but in a Jewish neighborhood in northern Jerusalem. Not only has this area never been governed under Palestinian authority, but there has never been a question of to whom the land belongs. Under every possible two-state plan, including the plan produced by President Clinton at Camp David in 2000 and the scenario and the letter from President Bush to Prime Minister Sharon in 2004, this area would be part of Israel. No. 2, Jerusalem is not a settlement. Jerusalem has been a Jewish majority since 1870. And every Israeli Government since 1967 has recognized Jerusalem as the sovereign capital of Israel, not part of the West Bank. To reduce Jerusalem to anything less undermines the very foundation of Israel. No. 3, settlements are not an obstacle to peace. This is where remembering history is especially important. Twice Israel has given up land and removed settlers in an effort to make peace, and each time peace was rejected. In 1980, after its peace accord with Egypt, Israel removed settlements from the Sinai Peninsula, but peace was rejected. Again in 2005, settlers were forcibly removed from Gaza, but peace was rejected. Settlements can be dealt with in any future negotiations through land swaps and border adjustments. But the issue of settlements should never prevent the two sides from sitting down to negotiate. No. 4. The 10-month moratorium on new construction in the West Bank issued by Prime Minister Netanyahu is unprecedented. Despite staunch domestic criticism and incredible political risk, Prime Minister Netanyahu announced a 10-month moratorium on new construction in the West Bank. The move was praised by the Obama administration. U.S. Middle East envoy George Mitchell called the move significant, stating that ``for the first time ever an Israeli Government will stop all new construction in West Bank settlements.'' Yet the Palestinian Authority continues to refuse to resume peace negotiations. In the past, settlement construction did not prevent negotiations. In fact, both Yasser Arafat and Mahmoud Abbas negotiated with Israel even while building in settlements continued. No. 5, only Israelis and Palestinians together can create a lasting peace agreement. The U.S. must continue to play a central role in peace negotiations, but ultimately the conflict must be resolved through direct talks between the two parties. Requiring preconditions for negotiations simply allows the parties to avoid direct dialogue and ultimately a resolution. Any rhetoric that prevents the parties from resuming negotiations must be tempered. No. 6, this constant focus on settlements distracts us from the greater threat, a nuclear Iran. The most significant threat to Middle East security is Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon. Iran's acquisition of nuclear weapons would surely spur nuclear proliferation throughout the Middle East, and even result in terrorist groups obtaining nuclear weapons. Our focus now must be on preventing Iran from becoming a nuclear power, not on debates about Jerusalem's construction policies. Yes, settlements must be addressed, and they will be addressed in any peace process negotiations. We know this because over the years numerous proposals to solve the settlement issue have been floated, and Israel has twice shown it's willing to take action, pulling its citizens out of Sinai and Gaza. But settlements cannot be an excuse not to negotiate. Settlements cannot be considered an impediment to peace. And settlements cannot distract us from the looming threat of a nuclear Iran.

Mr. QUIGLEY

Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 24, a bill which will redesignate the Department of the Navy as the Department of the Navy and Marine Corps, and to recognize George Mulvaney and the Veterans of America's Heartland role in bringing this legislation to the floor. The Marine Corps is one of world's most capable and premier fighting forces. Since 1775 they have fought in every major armed conflict that our country has been a part of. Previously Congress has declared that there are four branches of the military, however today there are only three departments. The perception that the Marine Corps is under the Navy rather than being equal is real and evident, and should be corrected. The Navy and the Marine Corps are a team, and it is important that the American public be fully aware that these branches operate as partners and equals. H.R. 24 will recognize the Corps and their overall importance to our country and our national security. The long and proud history of the Marine Corps more than justifies the recognition of equal status with our other service branches and making all Americans aware of this is long overdue.