Ike Skelton

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. I thank the gentleman. I thank Majority Leader Hoyer and Minority Leader Boehner for crafting this elegant, bipartisan resolution today, solemnly marking the tremendous tragedy of 9/11 and honoring the thousands of Americans who have worked since to recover and stop a similar event from happening again. And although the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks will resonate for generations, the terrorists' cold- blooded violence will never break the American spirit, alter our values, or shake our resolve. The job of protecting the American people is a perpetual responsibility. We are blessed with dedicated men and women in uniform and civilian roles who serve our Nation with honor here at home as well as abroad. As we remember the fallen today, all of us must renew our commitment to do all that is necessary to protect our families, our communities, and our Nation. I cannot say enough in recognition of the incredible sacrifices being made by military families around the world. Time and again, we grow concerned that the burden for them will be too great, and yet they've continued to amaze us with their dedication to country and devotion to service, not to mention their unsurpassed skill. I still worry that we have asked too much of these few Americans and too little of the rest of us. But I cannot be prouder of those in uniform and their families. Seven years ago, al Qaeda terrorists intent on destroying symbols of American power ruthlessly killed thousands of innocent people. The genesis of the 9/11 attacks emerged from al Qaeda bases in Afghanistan. I remain deeply concerned that the United States has not given the war in Afghanistan the priority it deserves. That concern was only reinforced yesterday by the testimony of the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff before the House Armed Services Committee. Admiral Mullen testified that the United States is not yet winning in Afghanistan. This is unacceptable, particularly when military and intelligence officials predict that this volatile region is the most likely source of a future attack against our country. On this day of memory for loss and sacrifice, my resolve to do my part in performing Congress' unique and necessary role in preventing a recurrence of such attack only grows stronger.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, it is with deep sadness that I inform the House of the death of Mr. S. Lee Kling of Country Life Acres, Missouri. Mr. Kling was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended the New York Military Academy and graduated from Washington University, St. Louis. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. Mr. Kling had a commitment to political service that broke the boundaries of partisanship. He worked as finance chairman for the Democratic National Committee and served as treasurer of President Jimmy Carter's re-election campaign and treasurer of Congressman Richard Gephardt's presidential committee. He received the Democratic National Committee's Distinguished Service Award in 1982. Mr. Kling also held fundraisers for several Republican candidates, and in 2006, Governor Matt Blunt appointed him to the Missouri Veterans' Commission, as well as the Missouri Development and Finance Board in the spring of 2008. Mr. Kling's political dedication also extended to the international level. In 1977, he represented President Carter at the funeral of the president of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III. He co-chaired a committee for the ratification of the Panama Canal treaties. In 1979, he served as an economic adviser during the peace negotiations between Israel and Egypt. He was also a civilian aide to Secretary of the Army. Mr. Kling was appointed by President Clinton to head the Base Realignment and Closure Commission in 1995. Three years later, Gephardt asked him to head the Amtrak Reform Council. In addition, Mr. Kling was the chairman of the board of the Bames-Jewish Hospital Foundation and chairman of the Kling Co., an insurance, consulting and investment firm. Madam Speaker, Mr. Kling was a valuable leader, businessman, philanthropist, and public servant. I know the members of the House will join me in extending heartfelt condolences to his family: his wife, Rosalyn Kling; his four sons, Stephen, Lee, Allan and Frank; and his two grandchildren.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, we need to begin planning now for the issues our country must focus on when the new President takes office. This will be the first presidential transition to occur during a time of war in many years. In addition, the next administration will face enormous budget pressures and national security challenges that will require sustained spending and the partnership of the Congress. Let me take this opportunity to discuss what I believe will be the top defense challenges for our next President. First, we must develop a clear strategy to guide national security policy. Since World War II, the United States has been the indispensable Nation. But our Nation's ability to sustain this leadership role is jeopardized because we lack a comprehensive strategy to advance U.S. interests. The next President must collaborate with Congress and the American people to formulate a new, broadly understood and accepted strategy to advance our national security interests. The next Quadrennial Defense Review of the Department of Defense must translate this strategy into a clear roadmap for organizing the Department and setting priorities in the next 4 years. Second, we must restore America's credibility in the world. The full range of threats to our national security can only be addressed through the consistent and determined efforts of multiple nations working together. The new President will set the tone, but the U.S. can only lead and help reinvigorate international institutions if other nations believe we are credible, just, and intend our efforts to serve interests beyond our own. Third, we must refocus our efforts on Afghanistan. The situation in Afghanistan is deteriorating. Violence by the Taliban and al Qaeda is rising. Attacks against the coalition are increasing. And, safe havens in the Afghanistan-Pakistan border region are thriving. The genesis of the 9/11 attack was in Afghanistan, and any future attack on our homeland is likely to originate in Afghanistan or in the border region with Pakistan. Until our country is prepared to lead and act decisively and persistently, problems in Afghanistan will continue to fester. Our efforts in Iraq have diverted resources and focus away from the war in Afghanistan. We must refocus our efforts, and work with the international community to provide the necessary leadership, strategy, and resources to Afghanistan to ensure success in that mission. Fourth, we must responsibly redeploy from Iraq. The men and women of our Armed Forces have done a magnificent job in Iraq, but the citizens of both the United States and Iraq agree that it is time for the U.S. military to come home. Our challenge is to manage that redeployment and to ensure that it reduces further strain on our military without jeopardizing the gains made in Iraq. We must continue to protect U.S. citizens in Iraq, pursue terrorists, and help train and equip the Iraqi Security Forces. U.S. combat forces must be freed up to begin the process of resetting, rebuilding, and also refocusing in Afghanistan. The United States will face new challenges to our security and our interests in the future, and we will need the military units that are in Iraq to be returned to their full capability to effectively address them. Fifth, we must recruit and retain a high-quality force. Our forces are the most highly trained and educated in the world, but we face serious challenges to maintain the quality of force we have today. The cost to recruit and retain servicemembers has skyrocketed in recent years. And the tendency of Americans to serve in uniform has significantly declined as fewer young people are exposed to the military experience. Finding men and women who are physically and mentally qualified and willing to serve is an ongoing challenge. Sixth, we must ensure a high state of readiness for our forces. Our troops have been engaged in combat operations for nearly 7 years, and it has strained our military to the breaking point. Restoring readiness will take a significant investment of time and money, easily exceeding $100 million, but it must be done if we are to expect our military to respond ably when we need them. We are already at risk. Either we fix our readiness problems immediately, or else risk emboldening those who would seek to do us harm. Seven. We must develop a more comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy. With the al Qaeda and affiliated groups still presenting a major threat, the United States must apply ``lessons learned'' and be open to the advice of our allies. The key is to fight smarter and not necessarily harder by more effectively utilizing a range of tools beyond just the military-led, kinetic approaches to counterterrorism. The new administration must more aggressively pursue strategic communications strategies, intelligence and policing work, targeted development assistance, and a range of other counterinsurgency and irregular warfare tools. Eight, we must strike a balance between the near-term fixes and long- term modernization. Each of the military services will have to address the fundamental imbalances in their current plans to simultaneously modernize and reset equipment, grow the number of ships in our Navy. Nine, we must reform the interagency process. And, ten, we must deal with the looming defense health care crisis. With increasing defense health care costs, difficulties in recruiting and retaining medical professionals, and the overwhelming demand placed on the medical system as it attempts to support thousands of men and women returning from combat, as well as their families, there is a perfect storm brewing, and in the next few years, that storm will be upon us. These and other national defense challenges will confront our Nation in the months and years ahead, and Congress and the administration must work together on a bipartisan basis to seriously address these issues. The security of the American people is at stake.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this opportunity to congratulate Ms. Ann Kutscher on being Empowered Woman of the Present by Missouri GFWC members. Ms. Kutscher has dedicated her life to service. In addition to her committed efforts in the 4th Congressional District's Jefferson City office, her accomplishments include 22 years of leadership as President of the Missouri Girls Town Board and many other community service organizations. Her award was announced at the Mississippi Valley Regional Conference in Bloomington, MN. Madam Speaker, I am certain that the Members of the House will join me in congratulating Ms. Kutscher for her achievement and in wishing her luck in all her future endeavors.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this opportunity to recognize the long and distinguished career of GEN Richard A. Cody who is retiring after serving our nation's military with distinction for 36 years. General Cody was born in Montpelier, Vermont. He is a graduate from the United States Military Academy. General Cody's military education also includes the Command and General Staff College and the United States Army War College. General Cody is a Master Aviator with over 5,000 hours of flight time and is an Air Assault graduate. General Cody has received numerous decorations and badges for his outstanding efforts in the United States Army. These decorations and badges include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit (with four Oak Leaf Clusters), the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Air Medal (with numeral device ``3''), the Army Commendation Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Achievement Medal, the NATO medal, as well as various other service awards. General Cody became the 31st Vice Chief of Staff, United States Army, on June 24, 2004. He and his wife are also very proud of their two sons, who both are serving as commissioned officers in the United States Army. Madam Speaker, I know that Members of the House will join me in paying tribute to GEN Richard A. Cody for his exceptional commitment to his fellow soldiers, the United States Army, and the safety and security of America. As he prepares for the next stage in his life, I am certain that my colleagues will join in me in wishing General Cody, his wife, and their two sons all the best.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, I rise tonight to speak about how the United States can best advance its national interests by adopting a new strategy. In my prior speeches, I have asserted that we currently lack an effective strategy and that the next President should engage in a focused effort, in concert with Congress and the American people, to identify and adopt a new strategy early in his Administration. I have noted that we live in a time when the U.S. is the world's preeminent power, but also in a time when transnational events are increasingly significant and in which several large nations, and some entire regions of the world, are returning to prominence. All of this stresses the international system. I have asserted that the U.S. should continue to accept the challenge of world leadership, serving as the world's indispensable nation, just as we have for the free world since the end of the Second World War; that we should fulfill this role not to seek or to maintain power for power's sake, but by earning the mantle of leadership. We should advance our national interests not at the expense of others, but wherever possible in cooperation with them, as part of an international system that offers fairness and opportunity to all nations. So, I advise the next President, whoever it may be, to embark upon a process modeled on President Eisenhower's Project Solarium in order to develop a new strategy for America. In Project Solarium, President Eisenhower selected three of our Nation's top strategic thinkers to gather teams to study, propose, and report back to him on a national security policy. Should our future President follow this model, I recommend that he judge those new proposals against a simple set of principles: 1. The first priority of the Federal Government is the protection of the U.S. homeland and its citizens. 2. The foundation for continued U.S. leadership is the strength of our economy and our commitment to our values and principles. 3. Do not let an outside power dominate Europe or the Western Pacific, and in addition maintain freedom of the seas. 4. U.S. world leadership should be earned by virtue of the esteem other nations hold for us, engendered by our productivity and moral leadership, and not through a self-justifying hegemony which views the peaceful rise of other nations as an inherent threat. 5. Insulate the Western Hemisphere from hostile outside powers with a collaborative approach. 6. Transnational events that can undermine States and challenge or dislocate large numbers of people--the AIDS pandemic, terrorism, and global climate change to give a few examples--should be addressed by international coalitions coordinating globally, using the full range of national power. 7. Our military strength serves as both a source of deterrence for would-be aggressors, and reassurance for our friends and allies, but military action is a last resort. When it is used--whether multilateral or unilateral--strict adherence to the essential strategic tenets propounded by Sun Tzu and Clausewitz is mandatory. These principles do not in and of themselves define our strategy, for they leave many questions unanswered. What kind of international institutions, coalitions and alliances are essential? What red lines should trigger a certain U.S. response, even if it must be a unilateral response? How do we define what constitutes a fair opportunity to advance for those nations which perceive their current share of the world's resources as inadequate? And what transnational events require a concerted international response? These are judgments for the next President; he should make them with input from a wide variety of sources. I ask all of my colleagues and all of those who have listened to these speeches to take part in a dialogue to help forge a new national consensus on a clear cut strategy that fulfills our principles and helps us answer these hard questions, ultimately guiding us to policies that are wise and just.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, tonight I rise to continue my series of discussions about the future of American grand strategy. Last week I suggested that we strive to remain and even bolster our role as the world's indispensable nation, and that should guide our thinking as we consider the imperatives that define our national interest. Indispensable nation is a term with significant potential for misunderstanding, particularly in this time when our global credibility has ebbed. We must be careful how we explain our intent. Most importantly, we must ensure that our actions meet our words. Just as a person cannot demand respect, only earn it, so it is for nations too. So we should define indispensable to mean that we inspire by our standards, not coerce, with our demands. We should strive to be indispensable, not because our wrath is feared, but because our strength is valued. The point is, it's a fine one but essential nonetheless that our role as the world's indispensable nation cannot come by internal proclamation, but rather by external validation. The engines of our claim to leadership in the future are the engines that made this country great in the first place, our robust economy that provides opportunity while connecting us with the rest of the world in productive partnerships and in our unceasing pursuit of what is right, fair and just, even when we fall short of those ideals. To the extent we veered off course in those areas, whether because of crippling energy dependence, unprecedented levels of foreign debt, our departure from sound constitutional practices, or even when and how we marshal our forces for war, we must refocus internally to address those challenges and master them once again. If we redouble our efforts, we can recapture the international prestige that more than anything else translates our unmatched power into the ability to alter the course of world events. As part of this course correction, we must recall the essential truths about war and international relations that were stated so well by Clausewitz and Sun Tzu. I mentioned several of these to our current president in 2002, but we lost sight of these truths in Iraq. As we do that, there is no reason why we cannot gain the confidence to understand that the term ``challenge,'' even in the international context, need not always have an adversarial meaning. In our daily life we are challenged by those around us, and we come out the better for it. We are challenged by our professors to be better students. We are challenged by our coaches to be better athletes. We are challenged by our clergy to be better people. We are challenged by our spouses to be better partners. All of these relationships help refine us, and, in so doing, enrich our lives so that all benefit. We might regard many of our international challenges in much the same way. In the free marketplace of ideas, are those ideas that the United States exemplifies clearly superior? Do we remain the guarantor of liberty and the natural ally against tyranny? Do we provide the best economic and social opportunities for all people with whom we interact? We need not see that as solely an external challenge. It's also a challenge within ourselves, and we should not miss the opportunity to refine the good things about America so that we remain the obvious, the indispensable choice for a continued global leadership role.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this opportunity to pay tribute to Robert Blosser of Jefferson City, MO, who was recently inducted into the Missouri Newspaper Hall of Fame. In 1932, Mr. Blosser began his lifelong career with the Jefferson City News Tribune at the age of 18. For a 30 month stretch, Mr. Blosser left for WWII as a combat photographer. Upon his homecoming in 1945, he faithfully returned to the News Tribune. With time, Mr. Blosser became the company's president and also served as president of a local television station owned by the News Tribune. Mr. Blosser's leadership was recognized by the Missouri Press Association when he was elected president of the association in 1976. After numerous years with the News Tribune, Mr. Blosser retired in 1984. He continued to serve on the News Tribune's board of directors until earlier this year when the company was sold. In addition to these accomplishments, Mr. Blosser served on the board of Chamber of Commerce and Salvation Army in Jefferson City. He has delivered Meals on Wheels for more than 20 years. Mr. Blosser also is an active Lion's Club member and served on the board of the United Way. Still today, at the age of 93, Mr. Blosser mentors at East Grade School in Jefferson City and serves on the board of the Senior Nutrition Center where he frequently volunteers. On top of these achievements, Mr. Blosser and his wife, Marge, have three children. Madam Speaker, Robert Blosser has distinguished himself as a valuable leader of his community and as a role model for young Americans. I know that members of the House will join me in wishing Robert Blosser all the best.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. In matters of national security, we should be forthright and not engage in political back-and-forth. This is a replay of what we experienced with the national security bill, named after our friend Duncan Hunter from California. I just think it's a play on words. The word ``promptly'' kills the bill. If it were to say ``forthwith,'' it would be a more proper word and we could proceed.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise once again to discuss the need for a comprehensive strategy to advance U.S. interests in the world. Last week I delivered two addresses on this topic. In the second speech, I argued that our understanding of the role the U.S. should play in the world is a foundation of our strategy. It will define our vital interests, and it will condition the means we use for advancing those interests. Today, the United States is the world's dominant economic, political, and military power. There is no peer or near-peer competitor to us, nor does one appear likely to emerge in the near future. Some have characterized the U.S. as a hegemonic power or as the world's policeman, both those who approve and those who disapprove of such a state of affairs. President Clinton, echoing Winston Churchill, eloquently described a vision of the U.S. as ``the indispensable nation,'' not a world hegemon but a consistent and ever-present ally and arbiter acting around the world. Still others advocate that the U.S. withdraw from a place of central prominence on the world stage to avoid the costs and implicit responsibilities of that role. I believe the U.S. should remain the world's indispensable nation and in a later speech, I will discuss the ways in which this role should inform the formulation of our comprehensive strategy, but first let me discuss the other options. Those who would have us significantly reduce our role on the world's stage cannot provide a credible description of who or what would replace the U.S. in the role of world leadership. The U.N. is not up to the task, nor is there any other international organization. As already mentioned, there is no other country in a position to fill the role of world leadership. To embrace such an approach, we would have to accept that significant portions of the world would simply be left to their own devices. Yet we know that places as remote as the Hindu Kush are home to those who would attack us and our allies. What other corner of the world, then, do we judge to be so distant and so remote as to be beyond our interest? And how would world fault lines, such as the Taiwan Strait, the India-Pakistan Line of Control, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict respond to a world leadership vacuum? The answer is, not well. In short, for the U.S. to abdicate its position of world leadership would be highly detrimental to our national interest. What then does accepting a role of world leadership entail? And if it is a current necessity, is it an inherent good to be indefinitely maintained? In other words, should the U.S. view our position as world leader as so necessary to our security that we act largely to maintain this position, which is the primary characteristic of a hegemonic power or empire? Again, the answer is no. To do so is to put our national interest in opposition to the national interests of much of the rest of the world. It is inconsistent with the desires of the American people, with the extent of the costs they're willing to bear for world leadership and, I would argue, with our sense of morality and fair play. Our vital interests should be defined as suggested by President Clinton, by our role as the world's indispensable nation: taking a leadership role in advancing and protecting our interests around the world in concert with our friends and allies as part of an open and evolving international system that is fair to all nations. To do so, we must restore the prestige and credibility of the United States, and repair and rebuild the relationship with our major international partners. With this role as our goal, we can define those interests critical to achieving it, and develop and adopt an appropriate strategy.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. I thank the gentleman from Connecticut for his leadership on this issue. Mr. Speaker, we recall that our Nation has been at war for over 6 years. It is often in times of conflict that our uniformed services are called upon, as in wartime now, to extraordinary duty. It is their families that we seem from time to time to forget, but the support of their families is so very important. They are a very special group. Military families regularly face months of separation, one, two, three, and in some cases, four deployments. Children being born--I recall, Mr. Speaker, not all that long ago coming into port and then helicoptered out to the USS Harry S. Truman and seeing a good number of sailors being allowed to leave the ship first to meet their family and to meet the newborn children of those families that they had never seen before. Stories of children being born, of precious moments like graduations and birthdays being separated. I think it is important that we in Congress recognize the importance and give moral support and comfort and thanks to those military families who bond together in times of crisis and help each other. And I think it's incumbent upon every American not only to say thanks and show appreciation to those we see in uniform but to do the same thing for the spouses and the children in those wonderful families.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. I thank my friend from Connecticut for yielding and take this opportunity to mention the fact that my fellow Missourian, President Harry S. Truman, on the 26th day of July, 1948, signed Executive Order 9981 establishing the ``policy of the President that there shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services with regard to race, color, religion, or national origin.'' That executive order also established the President's Committee on Equality of Treatment and Opportunity in our armed services. On the 23rd of this month, our Congress will recognize the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the process of integration for our military. African American men and women have served this Nation with honor, courage, commitment, even as they were denied the basic constitutional freedoms promised to all Americans. Their successful integration of forces paved the way for further integration of women, Asians, Hispanics, and other ethnic minorities. The cosmopolitan make-up of our armed services is a testament to the American value that we hold dear, that all men are created equal. It is also a reflection of our society that we should treat all individuals, regardless of their race, their color, or national origin with respect and with dignity. And with these days of conflict, our forces, our military forces of our country, are an example of what can be achieved by respecting one's differences and working together to achieve a common goal. House Concurrent Resolution 297 recognizes the 60th anniversary. I applaud those who have sponsored it, and I applaud the fact that we are taking it up today and recognizing the importance of this anniversary.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, yesterday I rose to speak about the need for America to embark upon a process to develop a comprehensive strategy to advance U.S. interests in the world. Today I rise to continue that theme; I want to take the conversation a bit further. A strategy, as I said last night, describes the way we employ all elements of national power to advance our critical interests. Ultimately, determining these critical interests depends upon the place America occupies in the world. What do we see as our role? Who do we want to be, and how do we want to interact with the rest of the globe's inhabitants to get there? That's the fundamental question, of course, but we are not ready to answer it yet. Instead, we must first consider the domestic and global contexts within which we must act. As our vision of where we want to go evolves, we must have an ongoing dialogue about the effort and the sacrifices we are willing to make. We must also look at the world as it is, not as we'd like it to be, and we must acknowledge that much of the world does not necessarily see us as we would see ourselves. We must look clear- eyed beyond Iraq and Afghanistan. Only with that understanding can we determine where we want to go and how we want to get there. But as this vision develops, we must keep in mind that it is no good if we cannot provide the means to achieve it, nor is it useful if it is not a realistic fit with the rest of the world. The global environment is ever changing. While we cannot control the sea swell of change, we must prepare ourselves to navigate those waters. Regional power is shifting; some large nation states, such as China, India, Brazil, to name a few, are ascending and verge on global power status. Russia may already be there, again. Do their interests conflict or coincide with ours? Is their rise a challenge to oppose or an opportunity to engage? Some of our traditional security arrangements may fade in importance as others take on new meaning. But nation states are not our only concern. It's clear that a number of transnational issues will challenge us while others may provide positive potential. Fundamentalist terrorism and the proliferation of dangerous weapons are obvious examples of serious challenges, of course, but what about climate change, the fragility of increasingly connected world financial markets, or the outbreak of pandemic diseases? These are challenges that present themselves without any malicious intentional human action. The point here is that the world around us bears significant scrutiny because it represents the context that binds whatever strategy we choose. This is not to say we cannot strive for an ideal. We can and we should. It's how this Nation was formed. The ability to conceive a vision that is breathtaking in scope and heartbreaking in its beauty is America's gift to the world. But while the goal may be the ideal, our understanding of our environment and our selection of the means to reach it must be firmly rooted in realism. With that thought I close, Madam Speaker. In my next speech addressing these issues, I will talk about the need to return to the fundamentals of strategic understanding, a return to Sun Tzu, to Clausewitz, to strategic thought rooted not in slogans but in enduring principles.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about a fundamental problem affecting the national security of the United States which has not received the notice and consideration it deserves. The United States suffers from the complete absence of a comprehensive strategy for advancing U.S. interests. This strategic void detracts from almost every policy effort advanced by the United States Government. As a result, major policies are inconsistent and contradictory in different areas of the world and across different policy realms. We find ourselves unable to agree upon and set national priorities for addressing the major challenges of our time. We suffer from a splintering of national power and an inability to coherently address threats and reassure and cooperate with allies. What do I mean by a comprehensive national strategy? The word ``strategy'' has military roots, coming from the Greek word for ``generalship,'' but the concept of a strategy extends well beyond just the military context. In the context of this speech, and others that I intend to deliver on this topic, it means a commonly agreed-upon description of critical U.S. interests and how to advance them using all elements of national power: economic, diplomatic, and military. The next President will have a unique opportunity to develop a successful strategy for the Nation. When President Dwight D. Eisenhower took office, he commissioned the Solarium Project to review strategies for dealing with the Soviet Union. After a competitive process in which three teams of advisers promoted the merits of three strategies, President Eisenhower decided to continue the policy of containment developed by President Truman, and did so with a largely unified administration. Over the course of our history, the U.S. has had numerous successful strategies. During the Cold War, both major political parties supported a strategy of containment for confronting the Soviet Union. During World War II, the United States had a widely-supported strategy of focusing first on the war in Europe and deferring some effort from the war in the Pacific until the Nazi threat was contained. At other times in our Nation's history, we have pursued less successful strategies, such as a strategy of isolationism during the period between World Wars I and II. The next President would be well advised to engage in and personally lead a Solarium-type approach to determining a strategy for today's rapidly changing world. To ensure that a new strategy for America can truly develop support across the political spectrum, Congress should be involved in the process, and to ensure that a new strategy is one that the American people can support, the general outline of the debate should be shared with and involve the American people. This speech is the first in a series. In the future I will discuss the objectives and challenges that a new U.S. strategy will need to contend with; some of the means by which the U.S. will likely need to pursue its objectives and their ramifications for the national security apparatus of the United States Government; and some of the options that a Solarium-type review of a strategy by the next President would need to consider. I hope that my colleagues will join me in urging the next President to address this problem and join with me in a conversation, both in Congress and with the American people, about what today's strategy should be.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, it has come to my attention that a distinguished military career is coming to an end. General Robert Magnus, U.S. Marine Corps, is retiring from active duty after serving our nation for 40 years. General Magnus enlisted in the Navy in February 1968. He graduated from the University of Virginia in 1969 with a bachelor of arts degree in history and received a masters of science in business administration from Strayer College in 1993. He received a commission in June 1969 and completed the following military training schools: Naval Aviation flight training, nuclear safety officers course, survival evasion resistance and escape course, weapons and tactics instructors course, aviation safety command course, Marine Corps Command and Staff College, National War College, CAPSTONE Course, Joint Force Air Component Commanders Course, Executive Business Course. During his 40 years of service, General Magnus has served during several operation tours and held many squadron assignments. These include intelligence officer, HMM-264; operations officer, H&MS-15 SAR Detachment, Task Force Delta, Nam Phong, Thailand; training officer, Station Operations and Engineering Squadron, MCAS Quantico; aviation safety officer, MAG-26 and HMM-263; weapons and tactics instructor, MAG-26 and HMM-261; operations officer, MAG-29; executive officer, HMM- 365, MAG-29; commanding officer HMM-365, MAG-29; commander, Marine Corps Air Bases Western Area; and deputy commander, Marine Forces Pacific. General Magnus also has served in several staff assignments, including aviation assault medium lift requirements officer; chief, Logistics Readiness Center, joint staff; executive assistant to the director of the Joint Staff; head, Aviation Plans and Programs Branch; Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Aviation; Assistant Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations; and Deputy Commandant for Programs and Resources. General Magnus's decorations and awards include: Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit Medal, and the Navy Achievement Medal. General Magnus is concluding his career having served as the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps. In this capacity, he has been the principal adviser to the Commandant of the Marine Corps on all decisions affecting the readiness and future health of the Marine Corps. I am certain that the Members of the House will join me in honoring General Magnus and his family for their outstanding service to our country.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this means to recognize the brave men and women of the Missouri National Guard, for their commitment to providing flood relief. The Missouri National Guard Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen have been mobilized by Missouri government leaders to assist in the Missouri emergency flood response. The members have been mobilized in the communities of Clarksville, Hannibal, Canton, West Quincy, LaGrange, Winfield, Alexandria, St. Charles City, and St. Charles County. Those supporting the flood response are assisting in missions that include sandbagging operations, levee monitoring, and manning traffic control points. Since the mobilization of forces, more than 1,000 Guard members have responded to the call to duty. With force rotations, there are currently around 700 members on active duty. Personnel have come from across the state to aid Missouri towns during this emergency. These units include the 7th Civil Support Team from Fort Leonard Wood; the 135th Military History Detachment from Jefferson City; the 835th Combat Support Sustainment Battalion from Jefferson City; 735th Quartermaster Company with detachments in DeSoto, Jefferson City, Rolla, Cape Girardeau and Jefferson Barracks; the 1138th Transportation Company from Jefferson Barracks; the 1035th Maintenance Company from Jefferson Barracks; 3175th Chemical Company from St. Peters; the 1438th Engineer Company from Macon and Kirksville; the 220th Engineer Company from Festus; the 880th Haul Team from Perryville; the 1137th Military Police Company from Kennett, Jackson and Doniphan; the 1138th Military Police Company from West Plains and Springfield; the 1175th Military Police Company from St. Clair and St. Louis; 1140th Engineer Battalion from Cape Girardeau; the 205th Military Police Battalion from Poplar Bluff; the 203rd Engineer Battalion from Joplin; the 131st Fighter Wing from St. Louis; the 1138th Engineer Company (Sapper) in Farmington; and the 70th Troop Command from Jefferson Barracks. I know the Members of the House will join me in recognizing the outstanding dedication of the Missouri National Guard, and in wishing them luck throughout this emergency operation.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this opportunity to congratulate the historic preservation group of Arrow Rock, Missouri. In April 2008, Arrow Rock was designated as a Preserve America Community. Arrow Rock is one of 600 nationwide sites that have earned the designation of being a Preserve America Community. This Federal designation helps in the historic preservation work for communities throughout the United States. Preserve America is focused on providing financial support systems for the non-physical work done in historic preservation communities. The Arrow Rock community will now be able to apply for Federal grants, awards, and other help in research, planning, and training efforts to help in the preservation of their village. First Lady Laura Bush said, in a written statement, ``Preserve America Communities demonstrate that they are committed to preserving America's heritage while ensuring a future filled with opportunities for learning and enjoyment.'' I am certain that the Members of the House will join me in congratulating the historic preservation group of Arrow Rock for their accomplishments and in wishing them luck in all there future endeavors.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Con. Res. 377 to authorize the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for a ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the integration of the United States Armed Forces. The historic document that began the process of integration was Executive Order 9981 issued by President Harry S. Truman, my fellow Missourian. History has well documented that President Truman was a man of great principle and courage. He was by all accounts a man that did not shrink from responsibility even when the decisions were very difficult. The employment of atomic weapons at the end of World War II, the Berlin airlift at the beginning of the cold war, and the Korean war are but few examples of his leadership during crisis. However, I believe it is his decision to declare that each person in the military is deserving of equal treatment and opportunity, regardless of race, color, religion, and national origin that most reflects his personal commitment to his core beliefs. His July 26, 1948 Executive order was no weak-kneed statement designed to fit the political expediency of the era. Executive Order 9981 was a bold statement that reflected his heartfelt commitment to the civil rights of all Americans and the American style of freedom that became a beacon of hope for so many people throughout the world during World War II. This powerful statement of equality in treatment and opportunity reflects the highest standards of democracy and lived up to the American spirit that we all cherish. President Truman saw much in the professional and heroic performance of African Americans during World War II that demanded he issue his Executive order. The exploits of African Americans that carried out the Red Ball Express, flew with the 99th fighter squadron, and served as Tuskegee Airmen are legendary. There were also stories of the many individual heroes during World War II like the seven African Americans who were finally awarded the Medal of Honor for their long-overlooked World War II heroism in 1997. Like all the other wars that preceded World War II, African Americans had played an important role during war and Harry Truman was determined to set the record straight. The 60th anniversary of President Truman's Executive order to begin the integration of the Armed Forces is a pivotal event in United States history that is deserving of a ceremony in the rotunda of the Capitol. I thank Chairman Brady and the staff of the House Administration Committee for helping to move this resolution so expeditiously and I strongly encourage my colleagues to support H. Con. Res. 377.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, today I rise in strong support of this bill, the FISA Amendments Act of 2008. The bipartisan compromise before us strikes the right balance between providing our intelligence community with the tools they need to fight and find terrorists and protecting our constitutional rights on the other hand. Let me thank my colleagues Sylvester Reyes and John Conyers, our Intelligence and Judiciary Committee chairmen, for their hard work. I am pleased that we have resolved this critical national security issue through bipartisan negotiations between the administration and the Congress. I want to particularly commend Steny Hoyer, our majority leader, and our Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, for their leadership in reaching this landmark legislation. The bill before us is a great improvement over the Senate bill in that it provides for more rigorous review of electronic surveillance activities. It gives the courts a meaningful role in determining if telecommunication firms are entitled to civil liability protection.

Mr. SKELTON. From my perspective as chairman of the Armed Services Committee, the bill strongly supports the intelligence needs of those who wear the uniform. Every day, American men and women deployed in harm's way depend on electronic surveillance capabilities to achieve their missions. Because of this bill and the work that has been done in this Congress, especially the Intelligence Committee and the Judiciary Committee, I thank them, and at the end of the day the young men and young women will be the beneficiaries of this strong legislation. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 6304, the FISA Amendments Act of 2008. The bipartisan compromise before us today strikes the right balance between providing our intelligence community with the tools they need to find and fight terrorists, and protecting our constitutional rights. I want to thank my colleagues, Silvestre Reyes and John Conyers, our Intelligence and Judiciary Committee Chairmen, for their hard work in bringing a strong bill to the floor today. I am pleased that we have resolved this critical national security issue through bipartisan negotiations between the Administration and the Congress and I want to particularly commend Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer for their leadership in reaching this landmark legislation. The bill before us today is a great improvement over the Senate bill in that it provides for more rigorous review of electronic surveillance activities, and gives the courts a meaningful role in determining if telecommunications firms are entitled to civil liability protection. From my perspective, as the Chairman of the Armed Services Committee, this bill strongly supports the intelligence needs of our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines. Every day, American men and women deployed in harm's way depend on the electronic surveillance capabilities to achieve their missions. This legislation ensures continued delivery of this intelligence to our warfighters. Again, I want to congratulate Chairman Reyes and Chairman Conyers or bringing this strong bill to the floor, and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this vital national security measure.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this opportunity to recognize Commander R. Trevor King, United States Navy, for his service to the House Armed Services Committee as a member of the Navy's congressional liaison team. A native of Thousand Oaks, California, in 1991, Commander King earned an economics degree from the U.S. Naval Academy. Since that time, he has served his country well in various posts and in numerous operations. He has received the Commander Naval Surface Forces Battle Efficiency ``E'' for excellence award two years in a row. In August, Commander King will begin the curriculum at the National War College during which time he will complete his Joint Professional Military Education. Following that assignment, he will likely be assigned as commanding officer of one of the Navy's surface combatants. I am certain that the Members of the House will join me in honoring Commander R. Trevor King, his wife, Robynn, and his daughters, Erika and Caitlynn, for their outstanding and continued service to our country.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me recognize the service of Major General Randal R. Castro as his career comes to an end after 33 years of dedicated service in the United States Army. Major General Castro began his distinguished career upon graduation from the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York in 1975, where he received his bachelor's degree. In addition to a master's degree in civil engineering from Stanford University, his military education includes the Engineer Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, the U.S. Marine Corps Command and Staff College, and the U.S. Naval War College where he earned a master's degree in national security and strategic studies and subsequently served as a Professor. During his 33 years of service to the nation, Major General Castro held a variety of command and staff assignments. These range from the platoon to the army level, held engineer battalion and brigade command, served as Commanding General, U.S. Army Pacific and South Atlantic Engineer Divisions, and served as Special Assistant to the Commanding General, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command. Prior to assuming his current duties, Major General Castro served concurrently as Commandant, U.S. Army Engineer School, Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and Commanding General, U.S. Army Maneuver Support Center, also at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, where he oversaw the Army's Engineer, Military Police and Chemical Schools. Major General Castro's decorations and awards include: the Distinguished Service Medal; Legion of Merit (with three oak leaf clusters); Meritorious Service Medal (with two oak leaf clusters); Army Commendation Medal (with four oak leaf clusters); Navy Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; and the Parachutist Badge. Major General Castro currently serves as the Deputy Director, Defense Threat Reduction Agency. In this capacity, Major General Castro helps safeguard America and its allies from Weapons of Mass Destruction by providing capabilities to reduce, eliminate, and respond to the threats posed by such weapons. I'm certain that the Members of the House will join me in honoring Major General Randal R. Castro for his outstanding service to our country.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this time to recognize my good friend and our former colleague, Congressman Richard A. Gephardt of Missouri, who recently received the Harry S. Truman Award for Public Service from the City of Independence, Missouri. This award is given annually to honor a distinguished public servant who best exemplifies the characteristics of President Harry S. Truman. Congressman Richard Gephardt grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, and in 1958 graduated from Southwest High School. He is an Eagle Scout and is a recipient of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. In 1962, he earned a bachelor of science degree at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, and earned a law degree from the University of Michigan in 1965. After law school, Congressman Gephardt practiced law and set forth on a distinguished public service career that included serving the American people in military uniform and in elected office. From 1965 to 1971, Congressman Gephardt served in the Missouri Air National Guard. From 1968 to 1971, he served as a Democratic committeeman in St. Louis, and from 1971 to 1976, he served as a St. Louis alderman. In 1976, Gephardt ran for and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. From 1977 to 2005, Congressman Gephardt served the people of Missouri and our country with distinction and quickly became a leader within the Democratic Caucus. In 1984, he was elected chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and was elected House majority leader in 1989. He subsequently served as House minority leader from 1994 to 2005. Gephardt also twice ran for the Democratic Presidential nomination, in 1988 and in 2004. After retiring from Congress in 2005, Gephardt formed a consulting and public policy development firm. Madam Speaker, Congressman Richard A. Gephardt exemplifies the best of American public service. He is so very deserving of the Harry S. Truman Award, and I know my colleagues in the House will join me in congratulating him, his wife, Jane, and their lovely family for their years of dedication to the American people.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this means to recognize the long and selfless career of Dr. Bill LaHue of Lexington, Missouri. Dr. LaHue has spent over 35 years as a dedicated general practitioner in the field of medicine. Dr. LaHue received his BA and MD Degrees from the University of Missouri before completing his internship at Kansas City General Hospital and his residency at Tampa (FL) General Hospital and St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City. He began his practice in general surgery in Lexington, Missouri, in 1972, and has served the needs of his community and the surrounding area since that time. Dr. LaHue was recently named Presiding Chief of the Tribe of Mic-O- Say, an honorary Boy Scout Organization of the Heart of America Council, which serves over 45,000 youth. This honor is the highest recognition within the Scouting Organization. This prestigious award comes with the responsibilities of conducting council meetings and presiding over council ceremonies for the course of one year, after which Dr. LaHue will remain a chief, but no longer the presiding officer. Dr. Bill LaHue continues to practice medicine in Lexington and remains an active member of his church and community. I trust that the Members of the House will join me in thanking Dr. LaHue for his devotion to the youth of our Nation.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this means to recognize the distinguished service of Janet Fagan-McNulty, as her career comes to an end. Mrs. Fagan-McNulty has spent more than 39 years dedicated to the Department of Agriculture and the Department of the Army. In 1972, Mrs. Fagan-McNulty began her career with the Federal Government working for the Department of Agriculture and eventually joining Army's Office of the Chief of Legislative Liaison. In 1988, Mrs. Fagan-McNulty was appointed Deputy Chief of the Congressional Inquiry Division tasked with a number of special missions directed by the Secretary of the Army, including Operation Quick Look. From these successes she was ultimately promoted to Chief of the Congressional Inquiry Division. During her tenure, Mrs. Fagan-McNulty has guided the division and organization through numerous major events. Some of these events consist of the period during the Cold War, Grenada, Panama, Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, the tragedy of September 11th, and Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. Currently, Mrs. Janet Fagan-McNulty is leading a dedicated team as Chief of the Congressional Inquiry Division, Office of the Chief of Legislative Liaison. I am certain that Members of the House will join me in thanking Janet Fagan-McNulty for her commitment and contributions to our Nation.