Mike Rogers

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this resolution authorizing the use of the Capitol Rotunda for a ceremony commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the beginning of the integration of the United States Armed Forces. And I thank the distinguish Chairman of the Armed Services Committee, Mr. Skelton, for bringing this resolution to the floor. Throughout the course of our Nation's history, the men and women of our Armed Services have defended our liberties with bravery, honor, and sacrifice. But because our Nation racially segregated its military prior to 1948, generations of African Americans served our Nation with the knowledge that they were fighting abroad for the very freedoms that were frequently denied to them at home. Despite this injustice, not only did African Americans serve honorably to fight for all our freedoms, they did so with the dignity and bravery that earned many of them our Nation's top military honors. Of the many units to serve with distinction, I particularly want to recognize the Tuskegee Airmen that organized at Moton Field in Tuskegee, Alabama, many of whom I would hope could be a part of this ceremony in the Rotunda. Over the course of World War II, the Tuskegee Airmen became one of the most highly decorated units in the Armed Forces. These brave pilots destroyed more than 1,000 German aircraft while accumulating an unprecedented record of flying more than 200 bomber escort missions over central and southern Europe without the loss of a single bomber to enemy aircraft. The Tuskegee Airmen returned home with some of our Nation's highest military honors including 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 744 Air Medals, 8 Purple Hearts, and 14 Bronze Stars. But they also returned home to a racially segregated America. One of the many important milestones toward achieving an integrated America occurred on July 26, 1948 when President Harry Truman signed Executive Order 9981. This important order, which will be recognized under this resolution, ordered there be equality of treatment with all persons in the Armed Services without regard to race, color, religion, or national origin. Even though it took many years to accomplish the complete integration of the Armed Services, it was Executive Order 9981 that began the process and it is that event, among others, that I hope we will honor in the Capitol Rotunda next month. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to bring the attention of this House to House Concurrent Resolution 297, a resolution I introduced with my friend and colleague Mr. Meek of Florida on February 14 of this year. This resolution also recognizes the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the integration of the United States Armed Forces. I look forward to the consideration of this or any other similar resolution honoring this important event in our history.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to drive home the fact that the U.S. needs an energy policy now. In my home State of Alabama, gas prices have risen over 10 cents a gallon in the last 2 weeks. This just can't continue. Not only does this affect how much folks can afford to drive, but it also raises the prices on everyday necessities like food and clothing. Congress needs to act now. Increased domestic energy exploration is part of the solution, but Congress also must invest heavily in home-grown biofuels and bioenergy. Imagine pulling up to the service stations of the future, and you can see all sorts of fuels--hydrogen, natural gas, ethanol, and biodiesel. But we won't get there without strong support from Congress now. The same holds true for initiatives like solar and wind power. No one fuel will power our future, but we all know that Congress must do whatever it takes to help get us there now. So let's act now to make our country energy independent. Let's pass a bill to open ANWR and the Outer Continental Shelf, and let's invest heavily in alternative fuels and new technology to increase efficiency and conservation.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to recognize to the work of Dr. Angela Martin. On August 9, the Martin Foundation will help open the doors to a new medical facility in Anniston, Alabama. The center will provide much- needed acute and chronic medical services for children of all ages and backgrounds, as well as new treatment opportunities for more citizens of Calhoun County. I am pleased to recognize Dr. Martin today for achieving this noteworthy accomplishment, and for helping bring this important new healthcare facility to our community.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully request the attention of the House today to pay recognition to an important day in the lives of two constituents of mine, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Miller. On June 28th, the Millers will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. The couple will gather with friends and family at the Townsend's Warehouse on the 28th to commemorate this special occasion. I would like to congratulate Robert and Patricia for reaching this important milestone in their lives. They are shining examples of love and dedication for us all, and I wish them and their family all the best at this important occasion.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak for all the hardworking people in east Alabama who are getting swamped by high gas prices. Each of us in this Chamber knows that gas is over $5 a gallon in this country and rising. We all know that high gas prices are making everything more expensive, from groceries to clothing. The question is what is this House going to do about it? For one, we should vote this week to open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for energy exploration. We should also open the Outer Continental Shelf in the Gulf of Mexico. Combined, these two locations have the potential of providing our country almost 100 billion barrels of oil. In addition, Congress must get serious about funding alternative energy research. A great example is the work being done at Auburn University in my home State of Alabama. I would like to invite my colleagues to visit the Auburn mobile bioenergy unit here in D.C. this week. Efforts like these are critical or a critical part of the solution to high gas prices, but so is using the resources we have here at home in an environmentally sensitive way. This is just common sense, and there is nothing that should stop Congress from following this course.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, in accordance with the Republican Conference standards regarding Member initiatives, I rise today to provide a description for how funds authorized in response to my requests submitted to the House Armed Services Committee will be allocated. In making those requests, I submitted a financial. certification letter to Chairman Skelton which accompanied my requests, and included the following information: I hereby certify that to the best of my knowledge these requests (1) are not directed to any entity or program that will be named after a sitting Member of Congress; (2) are not intended to be used by any entity to secure funds for other entities unless the use of funding is consistent with the specified purpose of the earmark; and (3) meet or exceed all statutory requirements for matching funds where applicable. I further certify that should any of the requests I have submitted be included in the bill, I will place a statement in the Congressional Record describing how the funds in each of the included requests will be spent and justifying the use of federal taxpayer funds. In order to fully comply with these standards, Madame Speaker, I hereby submit a description of how the funds authorized in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 will be used for the projects to follow. Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (Alabama). Bill Number: H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Account: RDT&E. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: THY Enterprises, Inc. Address of Requesting Entity: 440 Hillabee St., Alexander City, AL 35010 USA. Description of Request: Provide an earmark of $2,000,000 to continue research and development of the Next Generation of Tactical Environmental Clothing (NGTEC) being conducted with the AFSOC. Approximately, $1,000,000 is for research and development of a lighter, quieter, waterproof material; $400,000 for engineering and manufacturing; $75,000 for laboratory analysis; $25,000 for field assessment; and $500,000 for risk and plan management. Special Operations Command (AFSOC) Special Tactics Teams and Combat Controllers operate in environments where the extreme effects of physical exertion over difficult terrain result in hypothermia and other related conditions that degrade mission effectiveness. Current clothing articles provided to our combat airmen do not offer the best protection or prevention of these debilitating conditions. Recent developments in fibers research indicates that better materials can be made available for use in under and outer garments to greatly reduce the effects of moisture on the body. These capabilities, which now include a thermally efficient wicking concept, combined with water-proof and tear resistant fibers should produce a garment with superior protective characteristics. This technology is at hand, and THY's early prototypes have been field tested and found to resolve several of the shortcomings highlighted by troops from cold weather training exercises in Montana, and from the current combat theaters of operation. Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (Alabama). Bill Number: H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Account: RDT&E, Army. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Auburn University. Address of Requesting Entity: 202 Samford Hall, Auburn, AL 36849 USA. Description of Request: Earmark additional funds $1,000,000 to PE 0203735A of the DoD Combat Vehicle Improvement Program for Auburn University in FY 2009. The DoD Combat Vehicle program provided funds of $1,000,000 to Auburn University in FY 2008 to initiate the project. All of the $1,000,000 requested will be used by Auburn University to research and develop sensors for the detection of oil breakdown in the Abrams tank and associated military vehicles. Since this is an ITAR DoD restricted project, no corporate or other non-federal funding is anticipated for this project. Total projected cost of the project is $6,000,000. This research project benefits the public and non-profit segments of our economy (citizens and government). Implementation of condition based maintenance on military vehicles will improve vehicle readiness, reduce personnel injury, increase battlefield efficiency and result in a reduction of maintenance costs. No congressionally appropriated funding has been received by this project to date. Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (Alabama). Bill Number: H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Account: RDT&E, Army. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: GKN Westland Aerospace. Address of Requesting Entity: 3951 Alabama Highway 229, Tallassee, Alabama 36078. Description of Request: Provide an earmark of $2,000,000 for the development of a composite floor sub-structure to be demonstrated on the Black Hawk helicopter. Approximately $75,000 is for program management, $50,000 is for engineering planning, $200,000 is for tooling, $200,000 for design engineering, $75,000 is for material purchase, $500,000 is for generation of material mechanical property testing for use in design/analysis of the test structure, $400,000 is for process development through part manufacture, $500,000 is for structure testing. Current and new helicopter designs are experiencing weight increases through the addition new electronic systems that enhance the performance and effectiveness of the aircraft. Recent DoD requested changes to the Black Hawk helicopter (H-60) includes Common Missile Warning Systems (CMWS) and Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) configurations. Studies have identified the aircraft airframe as the area for potential weight reduction. Lightweight airframe development has been conducted in SARAP (Survivable Affordable Repairable Airframe Program) through the demonstration of a lighter, low cost cabin for the Black Hawk. As part of this technology demonstrator cabin, a floor sub- structure used thermoplastic composite materials to reduce the weight by almost 25% over the baseline metal structure while, at the same time, reduced costs. Further development is required to take full advantage of the savings that composite materials technology can offer. Work for this program will occur in Montgomery and Tallassee, AL. Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (Alabama). Bill Number: H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Account: RDT&E, Air Force. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Davidson Technologies. Address of Requesting Entity: 530 Discovery Drive, Huntsville, Alabama 35806 Description of Request: Provide an earmark of $10M to finalize development and validation of the Space Control Test Capability for the United States Air Force. Of the funds provided approximately $5 million dollars or \1/2\ of the available funding is for final development of a Monte-Carlo version of SCTC which will join the already developed closed-form version to give a new combined capability to analyze important transient command/control situations (e.g. satellite outages). The combined closed-form/Monte-Carlo version provides both closed-form steady-state and transient-event analysis capabilities builds upon Air Force selected analytical engines and is already in the hands of the users in support of Terminal Fury. The Monte-Carlo addition completes the required analytical suite. Approximately $5 million dollars or \1/2\ of the funding is for tool validation. When completed, the combined closed-form/Monte-Carlo SCTC tool is the only tool of its type and caliber in the Air Force analytical inventory. Completion of this combined closed-form/Monte-Carlo tool in GFY 2009 is needed to provide quantitative data support for acquisition decisions. The tool will provide decision time-lag and throughput data for combination steady-state and transient situations to quantify performance of alternative system implementations. The Air Force will use these performance predictors to make sound, quantitative-based acquisition decisions for upcoming space systems in areas such as OCS, DCS, SSA and communications now and in the future, providing additional AF funding to enhance operational capabilities as required. Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (Alabama). Bill Number: H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Account: RDT&E, Army. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Frontier Technology, Inc. Address of Requesting Entity: 75 Aero Camino Suite A, Goleta, CA 93117, for work in Alabama. Description of Request: May it be noted for the record that a technical error was made and it is anticipated that the remedy will occur in the conference report. The correct Identification Number, 0603005A, Line 33 should be substituted for the incorrect Identification Number that was originally given, 0206623M, Line 181. The Enhanced Military Vehicle Maintenance System identifies difficult to detect failure modes that must be serviced while the vehicle is undergoing maintenance. It models vehicle conditions to ensure that the vehicle is restored to an optimum state of operation prior to return to service. This cost effective technology can be modified for various military vehicles to detect problems not typically reported using threshold or trend systems. It can detect problems before they happen, preventing breakdowns in battlefield environments. The system will successfully verify that vehicles repaired at the Depot have been restored to an optimum state of operation prior to redeployment. The Enhanced Military Vehicle Maintenance System provides the cutting edge, cost effective technology that can help ensure more rapid and reliable deployment of critical military vehicles during this period when our equipment is under extreme and extended use. The funding for the program is broken into two components: system analysis, development, integration, validation and training, and field installation, optimization and support. The first incorporates salaries and O/H (FTI and Subcontractors, e.g. Auburn University), materials and supplies (sensors, communications and computer equipment), with a subtotal of $3,000,000. The later includes site specific licenses and equipment (sensors, communications and computer equipment), salaries, expenses, and OIH (FTI and Subcontractors, e.g. Auburn University), with a subtotal of $1,000,000. The total earmark is $4,000,000. Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (Alabama). Bill Number: H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Account: Aircraft Procurement, Air Force. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Alliant Techsystems, Inc. (ATK). Address of Requesting Entity: 5050 Lincoln Drive, Edina, MN, 55436, for work in Alabama. Description of Request: The RC-26B performs critical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions in support of national disaster response by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Air National Guard, and in direct support of Special Operations Forces. The Air National Guard (ANG) operates a fleet of eleven RC-26B aircraft that provide support to individual states for disaster relief and counter-drug missions. The RC-26B platform provided excellent, real-time imagery during the 2007 extended fire season and in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. As the demands for the RC-26Bs proven utility increased, non-availability of the platform have prevented ANG crews from performing their domestic assigned missions. Special Operations Command funded the modification of five RC-26B aircraft--to provide ISR missions in support of deployed operations. With five RC-26B aircraft deployed in support of missions outside of the continental United States, an availability vacuum at the state level has occurred. The remaining six RC-26B aircraft (from Mississippi, Arizona, Florida, Texas, West Virginia and New York) are not sufficient to support the disaster relief and counter-narcotics missions of both the ANG and DHS/CBP. Without additional FY2009 funding to upgrade the RC-26B aircraft, the ability of the ANG to respond to future DOD ISR, DHS/CBP, counter-narcotics and disaster relief missions will be impaired, even as the demands for this low density asset increases. Maintenance work, operational and functional flight testing will occur in Montgomery, AL. The program will provide improved military capability to fulfill an unmet requirement or need identified by the Department of Defense. The $3.0M funding is needed for concept development, design, integration and flight verification (one aircraft only) of the following technologies that would enhance the current Block 20 RC-26B performance and effectiveness. Specific capability improvements would include: $0.5 M--Incorporation of digital video recorders capable of recording the increased data rates associated with the new digital imagery; $1.75 M--Incorporation of new digital EO/IR frame camera capability to replace the obsolete cameras eliminated from the prior modification; $0.75M--Incorporation of a new high capacity down link system that can manage the transfer of the increased data flow from the airborne RC-26B to a ground station; The above capabilities would need to be incorporated at the same time because of the large cost associated with the integration/installation of the aircraft subsystems identified above. Additional funding would be required to install this capability into the remaining Air National Guard fleet. Funding execution and expenditure plans shall be developed and approved by the responsible program manager for the Department of Defense, and Air National Guard, pursuant to applicable federal acquisition laws, regulations and guidelines. Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (Alabama). Bill Number: H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Account: Aircraft Procurement, Army. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: United Technologies Corporation. Address of Requesting Entity: 1401 Eye Street, NW #600, Washington, DC 20005, for the Alabama National Guard. Description of Request: The UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter is an essential capability of the National Guard. It provides units in every state with a multi-mission aircraft for search & rescue, utility lift, disaster relief and medical evacuation. The Army National Guard (ARNG) is authorized 782 Black Hawk aircraft, but is short of this authorization by almost 100 aircraft. This shortage requires ARNG units to loan or transfer Black Hawks in support deployments, training or state missions, resulting in a higher usage rate of available airframes. Additionally, more than 500 of the 782 National Guard aircraft are older UH-60A models, with an average age of approximately 25 years. The Army is procuring over 1200 UH-60M Black Hawks for utility, special operations and MEDEVAC missions to replace the aging UH-60A from operational units by 2016. The Alabama National Guard uses these helicopters for disaster recovery. The funding may have a small manufacturing impact in Alabama. The Army acquired 33 UH-60M Black Hawks by the end of FY07, and from FY09 to FY13, the Army plans to procure an additional 300 UH-60M Black Hawks (70 of those aircraft are programmed for ARNG units). However, without an accelerated procurement of the UH-60M; the Army National Guard will be operating more than 400 UH-60A helicopters beyond 2020. The ARNG and the Active Army developed a program to support the continued modernization of the ARNG Black Hawk fleet. Unfortunately, this program is not fully funded. The ARNG plan is to accelerate the fielding of UH-60M Black Hawks by 10 aircraft per year. Although the Active Army has programmed UH-60A recapitalization for the ARNG with Operations and Maintenance (O&M) funds, which includes an airframe life extension, fleet-wide product improvements and the replacement of components, the UH-60A to L upgrade is not funded. The UH-60L Black Hawk is more economical to operate and has 1000 lbs of additional lift than the UH-60A. The desired rate of UH-60 A to L upgrades is 38 per year. Funding the UH-60 A to L upgrade will significantly improve the Black Hawk fleet, and assure that ARNG units are ready, deployable, and available to protect our national interests both abroad and at home. This ARNG aviation initiative has been identified by the Chief of the National Guard Bureau (CNGB) as FY09 ``Essential 10--Top 25'' unfunded priorities. The funding for this request is $5 million. The UH-60L Upgrades are $1.5 million each and include: UH-60L Improved Durability Gearbox; UH-60L Flight control upgrades; UH-60L (IVHMS) Integrated Vehicle Health Maintenance System; UH-60L Overhead rescue hoist provisions; UH-60L Overhead Rescue Hoist; UH-60L Rescue Hoist Cable Guard; UH-60L Digital engine control unit; UH-60L Hydro mechanical unit; UH-60L Signal data converter; UH-60L Cargo hook upgrade to 9000 Ibs. Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (Alabama). Bill Number: H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Account: RDT&E, Army. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Honeywell International, Inc. Address of Requesting Entity: 101 Columbia Road, Morristown, NJ 07962, for work in Alabama. Description of Request: Conditioned Based Maintenance (CBM) is a set of maintenance capabilities and technologies aimed at performing ``just-in-time'' maintenance versus ``after-the-fact'' maintenance. CBM improves reliability by increasing predictive maintenance while decreasing corrective maintenance. Fleet Mission Readiness merges individual onboard reporting, diagnostics reasoning, and trend assessment with decision support tools that aggregate individual performance into fleet assessments. Honeywell estimates that the $4 million requested for the ``Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Conditioned Based Maintenance: Fleet Mission Readiness'' project would be broken down as follows: 80% software engineering and development ($3,200,000); 10% testing ($400,000); and 10% evaluation and certification ($400,000). The Army has already invested $250 M to implement CBM for the Future Combat Systems (FCS) program to include Automated Reasoning software for the FCS fleet using Honeywell technologies. These same technologies can be spiraled into tactical wheeled vehicle fleets with a small investment to achieve the same 30% reductions in maintenance costs projected for the FCS fleet. This funding would be used to adapt Fleet Mission Readiness technologies from FCS to the tactical wheeled vehicle fleet to provide timely and accurate information for the Anniston Army Depot (ANAD) personnel deployed around the world in support of the warfighter. Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (Alabama). Bill Number: H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Account: MILCON, Army. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Congressman Mike Rogers. Address of Requesting Entity: Anniston Army Depot, 7 Frankford Avenue, Anniston, AL 36201. Description of Request: This earmark provides $1,463,000 for the Lake Yard Interchange. The funding will be used to construct an interchange and inspection building in the ammunition and explosives classification (Lake Yard) area of the Anniston Army Depot. This includes the move of ammunition classification from Turner Yard to the Lake Yard. Additionally, the site utilities will include electrical power, information technology, water, septic tank/field lines. The railroad track work will include new track for the interchange and spur. Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (Alabama). Bill Number: H.R. 5658, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Account: MILCON, Army National Guard. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Congressman Mike Rogers. Address of Requesting Entity: Alabama National Guard, 1720A Congressman W.L. Dickinson Drive, Montgomery, AL 36109. Description of Request: The $200,000 earmark will be used toward Project #010263, a project currently in the Future Years Defense Program for 2012. In the FYDP in FY2012, the complete project is budgeted for $15,267,000.00. The increase in total project cost is due to the updated DOD Facility Pricing Guide dated 2 July 2007. The updated FY09 cost is $20,205,000. If the project is left in the FYDP for FY12, the cost will need to be revised to $21.3 M. This project is for the Readiness Center Phase II of the Ft. McClellan Training Center. The construction will provide for an additional 112,375 square feet to the facility. Phase I is currently under construction 96,195 square feet for a total of 208,571 square feet when both phases are complete. The facility is required to house nine units with a required strength of 1,035 personnel. The 167th Theater Support Command will move from Birmingham to Anniston and be stationed in this facility when Phase I is completed in FY09. Phase II was programmed in the FYDP for FY10 and was pushed out last year to FY12. Nearly half (42%) of the 167th TSC administrative space in the facility is being built in Phase II. This space is critical for the 167th TSC in meeting the unit's CENTCOM mission and training objectives. If the project stays in the FYDP for FY12, it will be FY14 before Phase II is completed, five years after the unit moves from Birmingham to Anniston. This will have an adverse effect if personnel are not provided with adequate facilities to accomplish mission and training objectives. The lack of proper and adequate training, storage, and administrative areas could impair the attainment of required mobilization readiness levels for the unit and the daily support efforts for CENTCOM. The site of the project is on federal property. Approved by the Joint Services Reserve Component Facility Board 6/27/07.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition to the dedicated workforce of the Center for Domestic Preparedness, CDP, in Anniston, Alabama, who on June 3 will celebrate the facility's 10th anniversary. On June 1, 1998, the Center opened its doors to America's first responders. Over the past 10 years, the more than 1,000 men and women of the CDP have offered cutting-edge training to first responders from all 50 States and every U.S. territory. Through the years, the Center's unique training capabilities have focused on mission-critical emergency management skills and training using live hazardous materials. CDP's hands-on approach builds skills and confidence that can save American lives in a homeland security crisis. Since its inception, the Center has expanded its facilities and mission to better meet the needs of first responders. The addition of the Noble Training Facility, NTF, in 2007 gave CDP the only medical facility in the United States dedicated to training health care professionals in disaster response. NTF adds new training resources and two prototype mass casualty decontamination lanes to the Center's training arsenal. Today the CDP serves an essential role within the Department of Homeland Security for helping provide unique training that ultimately helps keep our communities safe. I am pleased to recognize the staff of the Center for Domestic Preparedness today for reaching this important milestone, and look forward to witnessing its next decade of growth and service to our Nation.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition to LTC Garry McClendon. Lieutenant Colonel McClendon has served our Nation in the Army for 25 years and as commanding officer for the Anniston Defense Munitions Center and Holston Army Ammunition Plant since June 2006. Mr. McClendon's distinguished career began in 1983 as an Ammunition Stock Control and Accounting Specialist. Subsequent assignments with the Army included tours of duty in Southwest Asia, Fort Bragg, NC, Germany, Fort Lee, Virginia, and Camp Able Sentry in Macedonia. On behalf of us all, I would like to thank Lieutenant Colonel McClendon for his 25 years of service to the United States, and wish him all the best in his next endeavors.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition the members of First Baptist Church of Sylacauga, Alabama, who on May 25 will celebrate their congregation's 175th anniversary. On May 25, 1833, George Hill sought the approval of the Tallasahattchie Church to establish a new branch in what would become Sylacauga, Alabama. The small wooden cabin that first served as a meeting place for the church's eight charter members became an independent church in 1835 with 33 members. Since that time, the church has grown steadily becoming one of the many fixtures of the Sylacauga community. The celebration on May 25 will help pay tribute to the work of First Baptist Church on behalf of its members and community. I am pleased to recognize the First Baptist Church of Sylacauga today for reaching this important milestone in the history of their congregation, and wish its members all the best in its next 175 years of faith and witnessing in the community.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 1038, which recognizes and honors the employees of the Department of Homeland Security for their contributions in protecting our Nation from terrorist attacks. We commend today the more than 200,000 employees of the Department that have dedicated themselves to the ongoing effort to secure our Nation. In January 2003, the Department of Homeland Security officially was established, and in March 2003, 22 Federal agencies were brought together and the Department became operational. The Department has come a long way these five years. With great interest, our Subcommittee on Management, Investigations, and Oversight has watched and encouraged the Department's progress in managing its components, organizing its people, and executing the critical mission of protecting the Nation. I am especially pleased with the 21 percent staffing increase that Customs and Border Protection achieved in just one year. I have every confidence these agents are working tirelessly to help improve the security of our borders every single day. Similarly, the hard-working people at the Transportation Security Administration have implemented a wide range of improvements at our Nation's airports. T-S-A is now training its own employees to be explosives detection canine handlers, which will allow for a considerable surge in detection in the event of a threat to any transportation system. I am also proud that two key DHS facilities are located in my hometown of Anniston, Alabama. The Center for Domestic Preparedness provides live chemical agent training to first responders, and the Noble Training Center provides training for hospital and healthcare professionals to prepare for and respond to disasters. The people who serve at the CDP and Noble Training Center provide an invaluable service to our Nation and deserve our thanks. Yet as we look back over five years of growth and accomplishment, we must also look forward to next year's transition and beyond. Consolidation of congressional oversight authority is still sorely needed, and remains the sole recommendation of the 9/11 Commission yet to be enacted. The lack of consolidated Congressional oversight jurisdiction over the Department has a direct negative impact on the Department's ability to fulfill its mission of securing the homeland. Congress must address this issue immediately. In addition, the Congress needs to establish an annual DHS authorization bill to provide the steady-handed guidance that 86 different committees and subcommittees cannot. This Committee, followed by the House and our colleagues in the Senate, must produce an authorization bill in advance of any appropriations bill this year. And finally, we must allow the Department's employees to work unimpeded by further organizational shuffling. These and many more challenges lie in front of us. It is our job to ensure that the Department is ready for the future, especially as it prepares to transition to a new administration. We therefore gladly extend our thanks to the many dedicated individuals that make up the backbone of our Nation's current and future security. I urge my colleagues to support passage of this resolution.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I would like to request the House's attention today to recognize the life of a heroic American citizen, Capt. Torre Mallard. Captain Mallard, a native of Anniston, Alabama, died in Iraq on March 10, 2008. He is survived by his wife, Bonita and two children, Torre, Jr. and Joshua. Like all those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in this conflict, words cannot express the sense of sadness we have for his family, and the gratitude our country feels for his service. Captain Mallard died serving the United States and the entire cause of liberty, on a mission to bring stability to a troubled region and liberty to a formerly oppressed people. He was a true patriot indeed. We will forever hold him closely in our hearts, and remember his sacrifice and that of his family as a remembrance of his bravery and willingness to serve. Thank you, Madam Speaker, for the House's remembrance on this mournful day.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I would like to request the House's attention today to pay recognition to a special day in the life of a constituent of mine, Mrs. Cora Saxon. On March 17th, Mrs. Saxon will celebrate her 100th birthday. To help commemorate this special occasion, her friends and family are surprising her with a luncheon in Anniston, Alabama on March 8th. Mrs. Saxon was born in Clay County, Alabama and was the first daughter born into the family. She was named after each of her aunts, taking her full birth name as Susie Cora Cordia Betty Jo Marie. She later married Henry Elbert Saxon with whom she had one daughter, two grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. She is expecting great great grandchildren to be born in April. In 1941, Mrs. Saxon and her husband bought a farm on which she later began making candies for a living. Over the years, her small enterprise grew and thrived and was later named Saxon Distributors and Candy Kitchen, Inc. From their humble beginnings, her company grew to 14 stores across Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee. I would like to congratulate Mrs. Saxon on reaching this important milestone in her life. I wish her a happy birthday and the best in the future, and of course, thank her for so many sweet memories.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay recognition to the work of the Alabama State University Small Business Consortium on its 29th anniversary. Since its establishment in 1979, the Small Business Development Consortium has helped support the establishment of small businesses across Alabama. From its humble beginnings, the consortium has expanded to include 11 business development centers in universities across central Alabama, and thanks to the vision of the consortium's founder, Dr. Percy Vaughn, resources for hundreds of fledgling enterprises. I would like to congratulate the consortium, Alabama State University, and the other member institutions on reaching this important milestone for their organization, and wish them all the best in the future.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask for the House's attention today to honor the life and legacy of one of our Nation's most important Civil Rights figures, Mrs. Johnnie Carr, who passed away on February 22nd at the age of 97. As so many of my colleagues know, Mrs. Carr was a tireless advocate for the advancement of Civil Rights and equality for all Americans. During a tumultuous time for our Nation, in 1964 Mrs. Carr and her husband Arlam filed suit against the Montgomery County, Alabama, Board of Education in an attempt to desegregate the Montgomery County school system. Her desire was simply to help provide a more hopeful future for her son Arlam Carr Jr. and thousands of other African American children in Alabama. In addition to her legal action against the school board, Mrs. Carr pushed to open segregated Montgomery communities to African American residents. Not only did her leadership and courage help bring about the end of the segregation of our schools, she helped usher in a new era of equality and freedom for African Americans across our Nation. Throughout her life she continued her activism as a voice for Civil Rights in the Montgomery area and beyond, and was a frequent face at community events throughout her entire life. Mrs. Carr was an anchor for her family, who will surely remember her as a caring mother and grandmother who held her family together through trying times. Despite her tireless efforts to help advance Civil Rights for all Americans, she always put her family first. Mrs. Carr's passing is mourned by us all, Madam Speaker, and we all send her family our prayers at this difficult time. Thank you for the House's attention today to her life, and to her legacy.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I would like to request the House's attention to pay recognition to a special day in the lives of two constituents of mine, Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Clifton. On February 14, Johnny and Judy Clifton will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. To help commemorate this special occasion, the couple will gather with friends and family at the First United Methodist Church of Saks, Alabama on February 9. Johnny and Judy have raised two children, Malea and Brian, and have four grandchildren, Katie, Whitney, Nathan and Aria. Johnny is an Etowah County native, who served with distinction as an Alabama State Trooper and as a sergeant with the Alabama Bureau of Investigation. Judy grew up in Anniston, and retired from AmSouth Bank after 24 years of service and remains active in the community. I would like to congratulate Johnny and Judy on reaching this important milestone in their lives. I wish them and their family the best in the future.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a distinguished young man from my district, Mr. Daniel Brinson. Daniel, a Montgomery native, is currently a sophomore at Auburn University and a member of the Nu Chapter of the Kappa Alpha Order. In late September of 2007, Daniel was traveling with a friend, Terrell Webb, when the pair came upon an accident. Both cars involved were in flames off the side of the roadway. Daniel and his companion approached the vehicles and heard cries for help. In an act of selfless courage Brinson and Webb forced their way into one of the cars and pulled one of the occupants, a young woman, away from danger. The young woman has since overcome serious injuries to make a full recovery. Mr. Brinson's unflinching willingness to risk his safety to help others is an example for all Alabamians. I salute Daniel for his service to his neighbors, and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize today the players and coaches of the Handley High School varsity football team from Randolph County in Alabama's Third Congressional District. These talented young athletes recently won the 4A Regional Championship, and in doing so, became a great source of pride by their community. These young people worked tirelessly to earn this great honor, and brought together young and old fans across Randolph County to cheer the Handley Tigers on. I am proud to acknowledge and congratulate the Handley High School varsity football team of 2007 in the House today, and extend my most heartfelt congratulations to these talented young people for their significant accomplishment.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a distinguished public servant of Alabama's Third Congressional District and our Nation, Mr. Lamar Denkins. Mr. Denkins has worked for the people of Alabama in various capacities for most of his life. Over his career, he has served in the United States Army Reserves; has been the Minister of First Baptist Church of Williams in Jacksonville, Alabama; has worked as a therapist for the Calhoun-Cleburne County Mental Health Board; and worked as a Human Resource Specialist for the Westinghouse Anniston Chemical- Demilitarization Project. Prior to joining my office in 2003, Mr. Denkins also served as an Executive Assistant for former Third District Congressman Glen Browder. From 2003 to 2007, he has served as Field Representative, Deputy District Director, and District Director and has been a dedicated and non-partisan public servant. Lamar has done an incredible job for the people of the Third District and he will certainly be missed here in this office, and across East Alabama. Lamar, on behalf of the citizens of Alabama's Third Congressional District, thank you for your service to our State. We wish you all the best in your retirement.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition to a constituent of mine, Mr. Wayne Williams, and his steadfast service to his community. Mr. Williams has served as the fire chief of station 18 of the Ohatchee Volunteer Fire Department since 1981. His many years of service have helped further strengthen station 18 as an institution the people of Calhoun County have always relied upon to provide safety and peace of mind. On December 6, the members of station 18 will gather to honor Mr. Williams' service during their annual Christmas Dinner. I am proud to join the members of the Ohatchee VFD in thanking Mr. Williams for his service and wish him and his family the best at this important occasion to honor his dedication and leadership.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition to a constituent of mine, Mrs. Ann Caldwell, and her decades of service to Southern Union State Community College in Wadley, Alabama. For the past 33 years, Mrs. Caldwell has served the Southern Union music department, during which time she earned many noteworthy accomplishments, including a standing invitation at Carnegie Hall in New York City. She is well known across East Alabama for her musical and leadership abilities, and she is frequently praised for directing highly successful and entertaining musical performances for the community each year. In addition to her service on campus, Mrs. Caldwell is an active member of her community and church. I thank Mrs. Caldwell for her decades of academic and community service, and I wish her and her family all the best in the future.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to recognize Mr. James A. ``Pappy'' Dunn, and his extraordinary service to our country. Born in Georgia in 1917, James Dunn attended high school in Montgomery, AL, and graduated from Alabama State University with a degree in chemistry in 1935. During World War II, from 1942 to 1945 he served our Nation in uniform along with Allied Forces in Europe. After returning from the war, he served as a coach and principal of the Calhoun County Training School, at which he served for 47 years. In 1987, Mr. Dunn became the first African-American elected to serve as a Calhoun County Commissioner. Since then, he has established himself as a community leader dedicated to working tirelessly for the people of Calhoun County, AL. On December 7, Mr. Dunn and his family and friends will celebrate his 90th birthday. On behalf of so many of us across east Alabama, I thank Mr. Dunn for his lifetime of service to our community and our Nation, and wish him all the best at this important milestone in his life.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition to the 100th anniversary celebration of the Alabama Governor's Mansion. In 1950, a commission formed by the Alabama State Legislature acquired the home of the late Lt. Gov. Robert Fulwood Ligon from his heirs. The home at 1108 South Perry Street in Montgomery was completed in 1907, and cost the state $100,000 at the time of its purchase. Since January of 1951, this historic Neo-Classical Revival home has housed Alabama's governor after then-Governor Gordon Person and his family moved in on his inauguration day. On November 12th of this year, Alabama Governor Riley will pay tribute to this historic structure, and host the festivities for this important occasion. Events will include historical lectures, public tours of the grounds, and an open reception. I am pleased to help recognize this important occasion at the Governor's Mansion, and congratulate its staff on this historic occasion.

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama

Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition to the citizens of Coosa County, Alabama, who on this Saturday, October 27, will celebrate their county's 175th anniversary. On December 18, 1832, the Alabama Legislature established Coosa County from lands acquired under the Creek Indian Treaty of Cusseta. The October 24th celebration will take palace in the county seat of Rockford, and will feature organizations from around the county. In addition to a live band and county history lecture, each of the county's cities and towns will present a welcome address. I am pleased to recognize the citizens of Coosa County today for reaching this important milestone in the history of their county, and in the history of our great State.