Ike Skelton

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, this is the time of year that we say farewell to some old friends. That's never easy. But it is even harder when the friend in question spent considerable time and energy helping make us all look good. George Withers, who is leaving the Armed Services Committee staff at the end of this year, came to Capitol Hill in 1978. He had served his country in the Navy during Vietnam. But he has spent twenty-four years proving that national service doesn't end when you take off the uniform. As legislative director on a personal staff, then press secretary and a professional staff member of the committee, George has made America better every day. A lot of young go-getters come to work on the Hill, Mr. Speaker. But George proved that you don't have to be obnoxious to get things done. His real sense of decency and values have provided a reference and example for not only the Armed Services Committee staff, but all of us who worked with him. George has been the conscience of the committee staff. He is a devoted advocate for those Americans who most need and deserve Congress's protection. Discussions of national security can get pretty esoteric, but George makes sure that we keep our focus on people, both those in uniform and those our military exists to protect, As a former enlisted man and NCO, he never lets the former officers on the staff forget who the real troops are. Mr. Speaker, while our staff works in a non-partisan way, George is a determined, thoroughgoing, old-school Democrat. But look at the pictures on his office walls. Yes, he has photos of himself with our former colleagues Ron Dellums and Silvio Conte. But there's John Kasich, too, and President Bush. All of which speaks to the fairness and openmindedness with which George approached his job. He lets his political beliefs inform his work, but never get in the way of doing what was right for the country. To my way of thinking, George has only one flaw. The B-2 bomber is the pride of Whiteman Air Force Base, in my district. George led the fight at the staff level against the B-2, and succeeded for quite some time. In gratitude for George's exemplary service, I promise not to have one named for him. In recent years, George's primary duties have concerned the military construction budget. Every member of this body whose district has received military construction funds--and that's most of us--has George Withers to thank. But he was also our committee's driving force on policies concerning Latin America. Whether the question was the naval bombing on Vieques or the United States' role in Colombia, George fought for a sensible, humble foreign policy. George's decency doesn't stop at the Capitol door, either. When he isn't here--during the few hours each year we let the staff out--George actively supports charities. He loves riding his bike, and he loves it even more when he's getting contributions for every mile he rides. While he will tell you that he loves his work here, just ask him about his children, Sam and Lizzie. You'll see what love really means by the sparkle in his eyes. And we were all thrilled when George married Donna earlier this year. His departure from our little world means that he will have even more opportunities to love and care for them, and even his cat, Tom. But I warn you, George, cats don't always love you back. I will miss George Withers cheerful counsel personally. The Congress will be poorer for his departure. But the real accolade is that people around the world who will never know his name have better lives today because George Withers was part of this House. I yield back the balance of my time, noting that the House should be honored that George O. Withers yielded so much of his time to us.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that a long and exceptionally distinguished career has come to an end. General John N. Abrams' 36 years of service to the nation has been marked by meritorious service in increasingly demanding command and staff positions, culminating as Commanding General, United States Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Fort Monroe, Virginia. Throughout, General Abrams demonstrated strong and inspiring leadership, unsurpassed executive ability, and an untiring dedication to the spirit and mission of the United States Army. General Abrams was commissioned through Officer Candidate School at Fort Knox, Kentucky, on February 3, 1967, after enlisting in the United States Army on February 17, 1966. He is a graduate of Bowling Green State University in Ohio with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Shippensburg State University of Pennsylvania with a Masters of Science in Public Administration. He is also a 1986 graduate of the Army War College. General Abrams has served in command and staff positions over the last thirty-five years. He is a combat veteran of Vietnam from August 1967 to July 1969 where he served as an armored cavalry platoon leader and armored cavalry troop commander with the 2d Squadron, 1st Cavalry, which deployed from the 2d Armored Division, Fort Hood, Texas. He commanded the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in Fulda, Germany, from 1988 to 1990; the 2d Infantry Division, Uijongbu, Korea, from 1993 to 1995; and V Corps, Heidelberg, Germany, from 1995 to 1997. Prior to assuming command of TRADOC, he was the TRADOC Deputy Commanding General from August 1997 to September 1998. His service includes staff assignments as Chief of Staff of the 3rd Armored Division in Germany; Military Science Instructor at the United States Military Academy at West Point; Army Staff Officer in War Plans and Deputy Director of Operations Directorate in the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff of Operations and Plans. His awards and decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star with oak leaf cluster, Legion of Merit with two oak leaf clusters, Bronze Star with three oak leaf clusters and Valor device, and the Purple Heart. He has also received the Knight Commander's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. Throughout his career, General Abrams has made significant contributions at every level assigned. In his final assignment, he brought to bear the accumulated experience and dedication of a career spent serving the nation and our soldiers. He has provided continuity for the Profession of Arms--integrity, loyalty, dedication, mentorship, vision, and the willingness to take and stand behind the risks associated with implementing change in the Army. General Abrams' distinguished performance of duty will have far-reaching impacts on the future of the Army. I am certain that my colleagues will join me in wishing General Abrams all the best.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, this is the time of year that we say farewell to some old friends. That's never easy. But it is even harder when the friend in question spent considerable time and energy helping make us all look good. George Withers, who is leaving the Armed Services Committee staff at the end of this year, came to Capitol Hill in 1978. He had served his country in the Navy during Vietnam. But he has spent twenty-four years proving that national service doesn't end when you take off the uniform. As legislative director on a personal staff, then press secretary and a professional staff member of the committee, George has made America better every day. A lot of young go-getters come to work on the Hill, Mr. Speaker. But George proved that you don't have to be obnoxious to get things done. His real sense of decency and values have provided a reference and example for not only the Armed Services Committee staff, but all of us who worked with him. George has been the conscience of the committee staff. He is a devoted advocate for those Americans who most need and deserve Congress's protection. Discussions of national security can get pretty esoteric,, but George makes sure that we keep our focus on people, both those in uniform and those our military exists to protect. As a former enlisted man and NCO, he never lets the former officers on the staff forget who the real troops are. Mr. Speaker, while our staff works in a non-partisan way,, George is a determined, thoroughgoing, old-school Democrat. But look at the pictures on his office walls. Yes, he has photos of himself with our former colleagues Ron Dellums and Silvio Conte. But there's John Kasich, too, and President Bush. All of which speaks to the fairness and openmindedness with which George approached his job. He lets his political beliefs inform his work, but never get in the way of doing what was right for the country. To my way of thinking, George has only one flaw. The B-2 bomber is the pride of Whiteman Air Force Base, in my district. George led the fight at the staff level against the B-2, and succeeded for quite some time. In gratitude for George's exemplary service, I promise not to have one named for him. In recent years, George's primary duties have concerned the military construction budget. Every member of this body whose district has received military construction funds--and that's most of us--has George Withers to thank. But he was also our committee's driving force on policies concerning Latin America. Whether the question was the naval bombing on Vieques or the United States' role in Colombia, George fought for a sensible, humble foreign policy. George's decency doesn't stop at the Capitol door, either. When he isn't here--during the few hours each year we let the staff out--George actively supports charities. He loves riding his bike, and he loves it even more when he's getting contributions for every mile he rides. While he will tell you that he loves his work here, just ask him about his children, Sam and Lizzie. You'll see what love really means by the sparkle in his eyes. And we were all thrilled when George married Donna earlier this year. His departure from our little world means that he will have even more opportunities to love and care for them, and even his cat, Tom. But I warn you, George, cats don't always love you back. I will miss George Withers cheerful counsel personally. The Congress will be poorer for his departure. But the real accolade is that people around the world who will never know his name have better lives today because George Withers was part of this House.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 6 minutes to the gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. Taylor).

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. This bill is appropriately named for Chairman Bob Stump. We came to Congress together in January 1977 and he has performed great service to our Nation, first as chairman of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs and then as chairman of this committee. It is fully appropriate that we name this bill for him for the great and outstanding work that he did. We thank him for his efforts. Mr. Speaker, I must also say the staff has done such phenomenal work on a very difficult bill, with issues that seemed unsolvable. A special thanks to Jim Schweiter and his crew, to Robert Rangel and those that work with him and all of the professional staff that we have. We are truly blessed to be able to put together this authorization bill. These are difficult times, Mr. Speaker, for America. I am convinced that those in uniform will be challenged to the best that is in them. That is why it is important that we in the Congress and that we on the Committee on Armed Services authorize all that we possibly can to help them with their work in defending America, American lives and American interests. Mr. Speaker, I extend special thanks to Duncan Hunter for his work in putting this bill to a successful conclusion.

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Snyder).

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Larson). (Mr. LARSON of Connecticut asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4546, the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2003. I will go into the reasons momentarily, but first let me compliment my friend, the gentleman from California (Mr. Hunter), as well as the committee chairman, the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Stump), for the work they did in shaping this conference report. Mr. Speaker, this was the farewell voyage as our chairman for the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Stump). The seas were far from smooth in this legislation and the issues were particularly difficult, so I applaud the efforts of the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Stump) and the leadership of the gentleman from California (Mr. Duncan) in recognizing the totality of this legislation. I do want to raise a note of caution, however. Mr. Speaker, it is unusual to consider a conference report on a defense bill under suspension of the rules. I am not totally comfortable with that process. All other things being equal, it would be preferable to consider the bill in a more deliberative fashion. I also recognize that there is little time remaining in this session. Passage of this bill is vitally important. The fact that we are considering this bill today reflects the commitment of the members of the Committee on Armed Services, who must provide for the men and women of our country when they are sacrificing in so many ways to defend our country. I am not delighted with the outcome of every issue, either, far from it, but I might point out that our troops need the authorization for the 4.1 percent pay raise. They need authorization for special pay to compensate and help retain those who have special skills. Our bases need military construction and family housing authorization, for those projects are critical to maintaining both adequate infrastructures and quality of life for our servicemen and women. They can now move forward with that authorization. We need to authorize the money for military operations, flying hours, steaming days, and tank miles, and allow our troops to be the best- trained and the best-prepared in the world. I would also mention the concurrent receipt. The gentleman from California fully spelled out the end result of the very difficult negotiations that occurred, hard-fought issues, and a very, very important issue to so many of those military retirees who have done so much for our country. Nevertheless, the conference agreement is a significant step in the right direction, and by providing concurrent receipt to Purple Heart recipients and to other retirees with high-percentage combat-related disabilities, we provide a basis for further consideration of this issue in the years ahead. I am pleased that we were able to reach satisfactory agreements on the other difficult issues relating to end strength, environmental provisions, missile defense, abortion, and various foreign policy questions. This bill moves the military substantially forward toward new ways of fighting. It helps the Army and Marine Corps move faster and increases the Air Force's qualitative edge. Perhaps more than at any other time in the last decade it is essential that this House take action to provide for our military men and women and the programs and activities of the Department of Defense. This vote will be seen not only in Kabul and Baghdad, but Diego Garcia, Fort Irwin and Norfolk. We need to send a message to the American public and to our adversaries and allies that we in Congress are prepared to give our men and women in uniform the support and protection they deserve. I want to commend again the gentleman from California (Mr. Hunter), and our friend, the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Stump), for whom this bill is named, for a job well done and the cooperation they have given. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, on September 19, 2002, I submitted a statement during the meeting of conferees for H.R. 4, the Securing America's Future Energy Act. During this session, House conferees approved a burdensome electricity title that could do irreparable harm to how rural Missourians receive power. Because this portion of the energy bill could have a significantly negative impact on rural America, let me take this means to share my statement with all members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Set forth text as follows: I want to thank the leaders of the energy bill conference for holding this important meeting today. Although I have been appointed a conferee to this energy legislation because of its provisions related to the military, I come before you today to share my support for rural electric cooperatives and to express profound concerns about the possible inclusion of an onerous electricity title in the final energy bill. Since the beginning months of the 107th Congress, Members from the House and Senate in both political parties have worked to draft energy legislation that is good for our Nation. In 2000, both presidential candidates developed plans for our future energy needs, and President Bush asked Congress to craft comprehensive energy policy legislation. We have done that. Each chamber has approved two distinct versions of an energy bill, and there are good and bad aspects to each of them. That is why we are here today and have been meeting in conference to iron out the differences between our respective bills. As someone who is privileged to represent rural Missouri in the United States Congress, I am particularly mindful of rural American interests, including the electric cooperatives that power nearly all of the Fourth Congressional District. The version of the energy bill approved by the Senate includes a title dedicated to electricity. The Senate electricity provisions, which are supported by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, recognize the unique role electric cooperatives play in providing electric power to folks who live throughout the countryside. The House-passed version of the energy bill does not include an electricity title. In fact, the House has been unable to develop a sufficient consensus to approve an electric utility restructuring bill during the 107th Congress. Such a measure failed to pass the Energy and Air Quality Subcommittee or the Energy and Commerce Committee. That is a good thing for rural electricity consumers because the House bill would not acknowledge the special private business characteristics and the unique demographics of electric cooperatives and their customers. It has come to my attention that during the last meeting of the energy bill conference, members discussed several aspects of the House electricity reform bill, I am concerned that some members who have been long-time advocates of stringent House electricity legislation are attempting to use this conference committee to advocate their bill as the ``House position'' on electricity, even though the House has repeatedly been unable to find general agreement on this matter. Such action would be devastating to electric cooperatives and to the customers they serve. Electric cooperatives have a long and distinguished history in our country. They provide private ownership to consumers of their electric utility and operate at cost. This type of ownership has been very successful in rural Missouri where population densities and revenues are low. It has also immunized electric cooperatives from the price gouging, market manipulation, and corporate malfeasance activities that have emerged in the electricity industry over the past year. Any electricity provision approved by the conferees must carefully address the unique interests of rural America. If conferees proceed with approving the House Energy and Commerce Committee's electricity restructuring proposal as part of this energy bill, it will cause great heartburn for those of us who represent rural America. Although I have not made a determination on how I will vote on a final energy work product, the inclusion of this burdensome provision will make me think twice about supporting it. More importantly, it will lead to higher rates for rural Americans who rely on electric cooperatives for their energy needs.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, let me take this means to recognize the 75th anniversary of the forging of Cottey College in Nevada, MO, and the P.E.O. Sisterhood. Cottey College together with the P.E.O., have worked diligently together to provide higher education for women. Cottey College was founded in 1884 by Virginia Alice Cottey Stockard who believed that women deserved the same educational opportunities as men. Late in her life, she became a member of P.E.O. and realized that the goals of her college and the P.E.O. paralleled. Today, Cottey College is a well-established, financially stable college for women. Its mission remains true to the ideals and aspirations of Virginia Alice Cottey Stockard and those courageous P.E.O. members who voted in 1927 to accept the responsibility of owning this College. Mr. Speaker, the P.E.O. Sisterhood and Cottey College can be proud of the 75 year history they have had together. I know the Members of the House will join me in congratulating the P.E.O and Cottey College for 75 years of fine service.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to rise in support of the proposal by my friend and colleague, the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Spratt). Several weeks ago the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Spratt) and I drafted a resolution for the use of the minority leader, the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Gephardt) in negotiations with the White House. That draft contained a number of important principles, focusing on the role of the United Nations, on more narrowly defining the threat posed by Iraq as to its weapons of mass destruction, and on planning for what will be needed after the conflict, if military action should be taken. These principles do not undermine, rather, they strengthen, American national security. Many of these principles have now been included in the resolution offered by the Speaker and the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Gephardt). On Tuesday night, I expressed my support for that resolution as it represents a significant improvement over the original draft submitted by the White House. But the Spratt substitute perfects a number of the principles contained in the base bill. It connects American efforts more strongly to those of the United Nations. This resolution urges the President to work with the United Nations to enforce Iraqi compliance with its disarmament obligations. If the United Nations authorizes the use of force to achieve these goals, the Spratt resolution provides immediate congressional authorization. But if the United Nations cannot, or will not, act, then this Congress must consider the benefits of unilateral action under a second resolution using expedited procedures. The Spratt resolution does not tie the President's hands. U.S. national security will be protected. This resolution sends a strong message to Iraq that the Congress insists that it comply with its obligations. It also sends a strong message to the United Nations and to our friends and to our allies all around the world that we are committed to acting with them to the greatest extent possible to meet this threat. In these ways, the Spratt substitute improves the resolution already before us. I urge my colleagues to vote with me to support it.

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, today I speak of duty. This is the third time that I have stood at this podium with the question of military action in the balance. There is no more serious vote nor more sacred duty than this, deciding to ask those who serve this great country to go into harm's way. So it is a decision that must be taken soberly and deliberately. It must be taken mindful of the regional implications, and it must balance the risks of not acting with those of not acting prudently. Winston Churchill's book ``The Gathering Storm'' details the world's slide into holocaust. I point out, Mr. Speaker, that his book is subtitled ``How the English-Speaking Peoples, Through Their Unwisdom, Carelessness, and Good Nature, Allowed the Wicked to Rearm.'' Many of us saw firsthand the consequence of that rearmament. Never again, Mr. Speaker, never again. The issue of Iraq was never whether evil should be confronted, but how. My own questioning began in a letter to the President on September 4. My concerns were to emphasize multilateral action, understanding the implications of using military force for the United States' role in the world. We must have a plan for the rebuilding of the Iraqi government and society if the worst comes to pass and armed conflict is necessary. We must ensure that America's commitments to the war on terrorism and to other missions throughout the globe will be upheld. In short, to paraphrase the great military strategist, Carl von Clausewitz, we must not take the first step in this conflict without considering the last. This resolution, while not perfect, is a vast improvement from that originally sent by the White House. To my mind, this resolution makes clear Congress's intention that America achieve its goals multilaterally if possible. As importantly, it announces our determination to stay the course and deal with the aftermath if military action is taken. Having achieved these clarifications, the question before the House is this: Shall we stay the hand of the miscreant, or permit the world's worst government to brandish the world's worst weapons? I believe that, Mr. Speaker, difficult as it is, there can be only one answer. I support the resolution.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, my fellow Missourian Mark Twain once said, ``The more you explain it to me, the more I don't understand it,'' and I have a difficult time in understanding why we cannot go forward with this issue. The motion by the gentleman from Mississippi is well taken, and I thank him for it. I associate myself with the gentleman from Florida and with the gentleman from New York in their views. We in Congress need to ensure that our military retirees who have become disabled as a result of military service receive all the benefits to which they are entitled because of service-connected disabilities. This is not brain surgery. This is what is fair; this is what is decent. They are the ones who made the sacrifices for our wonderful country, and the least we can do is to ensure that we repay the debt that we truly owe them. Now, the House version of the authorization bill would authorize the payment of military retiree pay and VA disability compensation for all military retirees who are at least 60 percent disabled. The Senate version, more expensive. The Senate version of the bill would authorize both the military retiree pay and the VA disability compensation of any retiree who has been determined to be disabled at any percentage. Well, out of all of this, there ought to be a compromise that we can live with. Unfortunately, the President has threatened a veto, to veto this conference bill in a time of war, with a lot of very, very important items in this bill such as pay raise, benefits; many, many items that they need with which to conduct the war against terrorism. I would simply say that we need to follow the dictates of this House as it has happened and voted before.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. Mr. Speaker, this week marked the 1-year anniversary of American efforts to drive al Qaeda from Afghanistan and liberate the Afghan people from the Taliban. We have already learned important lessons from that conflict. First, we reaffirmed that the men and women of America's Armed Forces are strong and that they are courageous; second, we saw the benefits of acting with regional partners and other friends united behind us; third, we continued to see every day the long-term commitment required to help a society transition from a ruthless dictatorship to a more representative government. The way we fought in Afghanistan offers important lessons as we now confront the threat posed by Saddam and his weapons of mass destruction. He is a menace to his people and to the entire region; but his weapons of mass destruction pose the most significant risk, and it is because of these weapons that we must today authorize the President to act, including with military force. In saying that, I am not accepting the administration's line uncritically. The first resolution submitted to Congress by the President was patently unacceptable. It would have allowed the use of force not just against Iraq, but throughout the region. It did not link the authorization in any way to the essential negotiations now occurring within the United Nations Security Council. Critically, in my mind, the resolution also did not address the broader implications of action. The administration has said that the risk posed by Saddam is too great to do nothing, but this risk must be balanced against the long-term risk of reckless or ill-considered action. On September 4, Mr. Speaker, before the original resolution was submitted to Congress, I drafted a letter to the President asking three critical questions: First, how would we manage Iraq's transition to a stable post-Saddam regime? Second, how can we ensure that action in Iraq does not undermine international support for the broader war on terrorism? Third, how can we ensure that the United States military can still execute its other missions? The resolution originally sent to Congress offered no means to ensure that these questions were answered. Through meetings and hearings by the Committee on Armed Services and in private conversations, I have discussed these issues with the White House, the Defense Department, the State Department, the Central Command, and numerous retired senior officers and foreign policy experts. What chilled me were the implications of getting the long-term implications wrong. If we act without international support, we risk losing support for the broader war on terrorism, as well as our credibility as a global leader. If we do not immediately plan for the post-Saddam transition, we risk fueling resentment and creating anarchy that could destabilize the Middle East and create legions of new terrorists. In the history books, Mr. Speaker, this resolution will constitute only a footnote, and any conflict with Iraq will constitute but a paragraph; but Iraq's future beyond Saddam and the role we play in its transition will fill a chapter, as its implications cascade far beyond Iraq to the rest of the region. That is why, with the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Spratt), I drafted a resolution that would deal with all these points. Through the leadership of the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Gephardt) and others, the resolution before us now incorporates almost all of them. This resolution authorizes the use of force, but strongly supports the President's efforts to work through and with the United Nations to enforce its resolutions and to force Iraq's compliance with them. It expresses a strong desire to work multilaterally, but reserves the right to act alone if we must. It requires certification, before force can be used, that diplomatic efforts will not achieve the goal of Iraqi compliance and that actions entailing military force will be consistent with the global war on terrorism. Finally, the resolution requires the President to report to Congress both on the conduct of any military action and on what comes next. This is not a perfect resolution, but it is a resolution that simultaneously supports the United Nations and our men and women in uniform who every day risk their lives to defend our national security. It makes clear to Saddam Hussein that we will work with our friends and with our allies, but that his efforts to blackmail the world with his weapons of mass destruction will not succeed. So, Mr. Speaker, it is with heavy heart, great hope, and mindful of the responsibilities borne by Congress alone that I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Joint Resolution 6, introduced by my colleague from New York (Mr. King). House Joint Resolution 6 recognizes Commodore John Barry as the first flag officer of the United States Navy. Born in Wexford, Ireland, in 1745, the son of a poor Irish farmer rose to become the father of the American Navy. In 1775 as the War for Independence began, Captain John Barry was given command of a new 14- gun ship named the Lexington. As the commander of the Lexington, Captain Barry captured the British ship Edward, the first American war prize. Throughout the war, Captain Barry was successful in capturing numerous enemy ships and their vitally important cargo of food and ammunition that were desperately needed by the Continental troops. Captain John Barry also aided in President George Washington's crossing of the Delaware and participated in the victorious Trenton Campaign. Enemies also recognized Captain Barry's extraordinary skill and leadership. British General Lord Howe offered to desert Washington, and the patriot cause was rejected by Captain Barry who stated, ``Not the value and command of the whole British fleet can lure me from the cause of my country.'' After the first Congress authorized the establishment of the United States Navy, President George Washington tasked Captain John Barry to build and lead the Nation's young navy. On February 22, 1797, President Washington conferred upon Captain John Barry the rank of captain, with the first commission of the United States Navy, Commission No. 1. As commander of the first naval squadron, Commodore Barry was entitled to fly a broad pendant, which made him, in essence, the Nation's first flag officer of the United States Navy. Captain Barry served as commodore of the United States Navy under three Presidents, Washington, Adams and Jefferson. Commodore Barry led the navy until his death in September, 1803, in Philadelphia. He played a vital role in establishing the earliest traditions of the navy: faithful devotion to duty, honoring the flag and vigilant protection of the rights of the sovereign United States. House Joint Resolution 6 recognizes Commodore John Barry for his outstanding contributions to the Continental Navy through the American War for Independence and his extraordinary accomplishments as the Nation's first flag officer of the United States Navy. I urge my colleagues to adopt this resolution.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 465 introduced by my colleague, the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Collins). It has already been noted that the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation performs a valuable role in educating the American public on military affairs and making the vital connection between the men and women who serve our Nation in uniform and the people they defend. That alone is a noble endeavor. We all understand that a Nation can only take pride in the past when the citizenry understands the challenges and sacrifices of those who passed this way before. To that end, the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation brings history to life for the citizenry. Mr. Speaker, I want to highlight another aspect of the significant contributions of the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation, their contribution to the service members and their families. Earlier this year, the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation was selected as the Army's nominee to the Department of Defense Multi-department Selection Panel for the 2001 Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher Distinguished Citizen Humanitarian Award. This distinguished award recognizes efforts to improve the quality of life for members of the Armed Forces and their families. In a letter of appreciation to the Foundation, Secretary of the Army, the Honorable Thomas E. White, offered the following commentary: ``The Foundation's dedication, patriotism, and numerous contributions have left a lasting imprint on the quality of life for the service members and their families.'' I urge my colleagues to join in passing this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Concurrent Resolution 411, introduced by my colleague, the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Goodlatte). House Concurrent Resolution 411 recognizes the exploits of the officers and crew of the S.S. Henry Bacon, a United States liberty ship that was sunk on February 23, 1945, in the waning days of the Second World War. The S.S. Henry Bacon was one of over 2,700 liberty ships mass produced in our country. Assembled from large prefabricated sections, this pioneering method of production allowed the Henry Bacon to be built in 6 weeks and commissioned on November 11, 1942. During the war, liberty ships were called ugly ducklings. However, these ships were the work horses of the Second World War, the largest class of civilian made war ships ever built. The crews consisted of over 44 Merchant Marines and 12 to 25 Naval Armed Guards. Convoys of liberty ships filled the horizon as they carried cargos of grain and mail, ore and ammunition, trucks and troops across the Atlantic. A liberty ship can hold over 9,000 tons of cargo, in addition to trains, planes and tanks that were lashed to the decks. The Henry Bacon was part of a convoy of 35 ships and Naval escorts that departed Murmansk, Russia, on February 17, 1945, on a rescue operation to save 502 Norwegian children and adults who were left behind to starve when Nazi troops began to fall back. Nineteen Norwegian refugees were aboard the Henry Bacon when a severe 2-day gale separated the ship from the convoy. Damaged from this storm and 60 miles away from the support and protection of the convoy, the Henry Bacon was attacked by German torpedo planes. The ship's crew valiantly fought the attacking planes, downing several and exploding a number of torpedoes, but a torpedo slipped through and struck the ship on the starboard side. As the ship began to sink, only two undamaged lifeboats were safely launched. The crew ensured that all the Norwegians were on board the lifeboats. Some crew even gave up their places to the Norwegians. According to one crew member, ``The men just waited until all 19 refugees found seats. None had to be asked or ordered to give up his seat in the lifeboat.'' British destroyers rescued the survivors several hours later. Sadly, Captain Alfred Carini and Chief Engineer Donald Haviland and 27 crew members went down with the ship. House Concurrent Resolution 411 recognizes the heroic and valiant deeds of the officers and crew of the S.S. Henry Bacon. I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the deeds and sacrifices of that crew.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sadness that I inform the House of the death of Mr. Bill Stevick of Harrisonville, MO. Mr. Stevick was born in Topeka, KS, on June 8, 1920, son of James Floyd and Vera May (Maze) Stevick. He attended Springfield Missouri High School and received his law degree from Washburn University, Topeka, KS, in 1950. Mr. Stevick served in the U.S. Army during World War II both in Italy and North Africa under General George Patton receiving both the Silver Star and Purple Heart. He attended the U.S. Army Command and Staff College at Fort Leavenworth and was a graduate of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. He was called back to active duty in 1951 as a Major during the Korean War and served in Virginia as a training officer. He retired from the Army Reserves as a Lieutenant Colonel. Along with his distinguished military career, Bill was a member of the Delta Theta Phi legal fraternity and practiced law for over 50 years. In the 1950's he was Director of Vital Statistics and Records for the State of Kansas, served as a general counsel for the State of Kansas and was appointed Workers Compensation Commissioner of Kansas. He was elected as Lee's Summit Municipal Judge in 1962 and worked in public relations for the former AT&T Company in Lee's Summit, retiring with over 25 years of service. Mr. Stevick was commander of the Topeka chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars, a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Harrisonville, the American Legion, Harrisonville, Gideons International, the National Rifle Association, the Cass County Historical Society, Telephone Pioneers, and the Missouri and Kansas Bar Associations. Bill was an active member of the Harrisonville United Methodist Church, where he served as lay speaker for many years, as well as an impersonator of John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church. He was also a well-known impersonator of Mark Twain. Bill was a long-time Scoutmaster, an Eagle Scout and member of the Tribe of Mic-O- Say. He was active in the Harrisonville community affairs in the 28 years he lived there. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Bill Stevick distinguished himself as a soldier for his country, a dedicated community leader and a wonderful family man. He was indeed a role model for all young people who were graced by his presence. I know the members of the House will join me in extending heartfelt condolences to his family: his wife, Lois; his three sons Jim, Ron, and Craig; his daughter Jacque; his four stepdaughters, Joy, Meyra, Cheri, and Fran; 19 grandchildren; and 36 great-grandchildren.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, as we gather in the House chamber with tremendous sadness over the passing of our dear friend and colleague, the Honorable Patsy Mink of Hawaii, I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the career of a distinguished public servant who dedicated her life to the people of Hawaii and the United States. Patsy graduated valedictorian of her Maui High School class and received a bachelor's degree in zoology and chemistry from the University of Hawaii and a law degree from the University of Chicago, graduating as only one of two women in a class of 200. She practiced law and turned her sights to public service while mobilizing the Democratic party to take control of the Hawaii territorial government in the mid-1950s. From that time, Patsy served as an elected representative in the territorial and state legislatures, a city councilwoman, a federal official, and a Member of Congress. In Congress, as a member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, she consistently championed legislation that would improve education, child care, welfare, and gender equality. Patsy was an especially fierce advocate for women's issues and was instrumental in the creation of Title 9 of the federal education act, which has opened many opportunities for women athletes in schools and colleges across America. Patsy also cared deeply about the men and women who serve in our nation's military. The State of Hawaii and its citizens play an instrumental role in advancing U.S. national security presence throughout the Pacific region. As a representative from Hawaii Patsy recognized the important military function in her state, and promoted the welfare of our troops and their families. As members of the House pay tribute to the legacy of this stateswoman, we should also take a moment to thank Patsy's staff in Washington and in Hawaii for their hard work and dedication. Because Patsy's office neighbors mine in the Rayburn building, I have seen her staff members burning the midnight oil on more than one occasion. With several time zones between Washington and Hawaii, they have often worked long hours to get the job done. Mr. Speaker, Congresswoman Patsy Mink was a remarkable person who always stood for what she believed. She was a strong, brave American who is a role model for women throughout the nation. Most importantly, however, Patsy was a dear friend, and I will miss her. My wife Susie and I offer our condolences to Patsy's husband, John, and to their daughter Wendy. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. Speaker, for those who knew her, Patsy Mink was a tiny woman physically. But don't let appearances fool you-- Patsy Mink was a giant. This Nation has lost a great public servant and a true crusader for social justice. For 74 years, every time she came to a door that was slammed tightly closed--for no good reason--she used those tiny feet of hers to kick it open--and to let others follow behind her. And those who benefited from her tenacity have not forgotten Patsy Mink's pioneering steps. The National Organization for Women, in its tribute to Representative Mink, wrote ``Girls and women . . . lost one of their most valiant and steadfast champions. Every woman today who is enjoying the fruits of her education and job opportunities, and every girl who has a chance to play sports in school, owes a nod of thanks to Mink who unremittingly and dauntlessly challenged old stereotypes about `women's place' and helped engineer the steady progress for women over the last four decades--parallel to Mink's career in politics.'' Patsy Mink was born in Maui, Hawaii, in December 1927, and began her political career when she ran for and won the election for student body president during her junior year in high school--she was the first girl to run. She later went on to graduate as the class valedictorian of Maui High School--but her academic achievement became less important than her race and sex when she set off to college. She attended Wilson College, in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and then the University of Nebraska, where she faced segregated student housing. Patsy Mink worked with others to end this discriminatory policy. She returned to finish her studies in chemistry and zoology from the University of Hawaii in 1948, with full intentions of attending medical school. However, 20 medical schools rejected her--obviously, it was not because of her grades, but because they would not accept women. She then decided to go to law school, and graduated with her J.D. degree in 1951 from the University of Chicago. Ironically enough, she was accepted into the school because they hadn't realized that Hawaii was an American territory at the time, and she was accepted as a foreign student! Armed with her law degree, Patsy Mink returned to Hawaii and became the first Asian American woman to practice law, the first Asian American woman elected to the Territorial House of Representatives, and then the first Asian American woman to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives. For 24 years over two different periods she served in this body, and was re-elected two years ago by two-to-one margin. Incidentally, when she arrived in Congress, she wasn't allowed in the House gym because it was a male-only venue. As a champion for civil rights, family rights, education, civil liberties, and equal rights and opportunities, Rep. Mink will be remembered for many things. She wrote the Women's Educational Equity Act, sponsored the first Early Childhood Education Act, and was a passionate advocate for poor families, supporting measures to provide education and skills to assist families. However, her most crowning achievement was Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. By prohibiting schools that receive Federal funding from discriminating because of sex, Title IX has singularly been credited with changing the face of education and sports for American women--and opening up many of those closed doors. There are many who believe we would not have seen such a rise in women's athletics were it not for Title IX. Rep Mink said of Title IX: ``It's rare as a legislator that you fight for legislation you believe in and stay around or live long enough to see it come to fruition . . . To be frank, I thought this was great, a beginning statement of policy and intent. At the moment we were doing it, we didn't think it would have this fantastic momentum and the enforcement of the courts.'' I think The Honolulu Advertiser summed it up right when it said: ``In a day when politics appears driven by polls and focus groups, Mink stood out as a politician who was true, first and foremost, to herself and the people she served.'' I will truly miss working with Patsy Mink, but I am honored to have served with her. She set the standard for public servants, and leaves some very big shoes to fill.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, if has come to my attention that Claudia and Douglas Raaberg have received the 2002 Gen. and Mrs. Jerome F. O'Malley Award. The Raabergs have demonstrated a strong commitment and dedication to the United States Air Force. The Gen. and Mrs. Jerome F. O'Malley Award recognizes the wing commander and spouse whose contributions to the nation, Air Force and local community best exemplify the highest ideals and positive leadership of a military couple in a key Air Force position. The Raabergs received this award for their efforts while stationed at Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma. As commander of the 71st Flying Training Wing, Col. Raaberg secured $11.5 million and 11 acres of land to build 230 new housing units, the first for the base in 60 years. His emphasis on dormitory improvements resulted in new furniture, carpet, microwaves and free Internet access for assigned airmen. Claudia oversaw the Vance Spouses Club ``compassion coalition,'' an initiative to invite spouse clubs across the Department of Defense to contribute to the assistance program for survivors of the September 11 terrorist attacks. She was also an active participant in ``Christmas in April,'' mustering volunteers and $20,000 to rebuild and repair 10 homes in a day for local disabled and elderly residents. Mr. Speaker, Claudia and Douglas Raaberg have distinguished themselves as community leaders in the United States Air Force. Their service to our nation is invaluable and I am sure that my colleagues will join me in wishing the Raaberg family all the best.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that the House is taking time today to recognize the 100th anniversary of the 4-H Youth Development Program, which has spent a century helping young people develop skills to improve their lives and contribute to their communities. In Missouri, more than 200,000 children and teenagers are involved in the 4-H program, which is coordinated by University Outreach and Extension, a partnership of the University of Missouri, Lincoln University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and county governments. 4-H is often associated with rural communities, but today more than 1,000 Missouri 4-H clubs serve as many young people from suburban and urban areas as from farms and small towns. During this centennial year, members of 4-H throughout Missouri have participated in events honoring the 100th anniversary of this outstanding organization. They have continued their unwavering commitment to community service throughout the Show Me State. In May, 4-H and the U.S. Army teamed up to benefit American youth. 4- H faculty and staff from the University of Missouri worked with staff at Fort Leonard Wood to coordinate the Teen Discovery program for more than 30 teenagers from 16 Army installations across the nation. These teens received training in team building activities, opportunity for Army youth to focus on leadership training. In July, nine 4-H members from across the state led Missouri 4-H into the technology age. They formed the first Missouri 4-H Technology Leadership Team and competed for a chance to attend the National 4-H Technology Conference in Maryland. The primary focus of the team has been to provide leadership and community service within the context of using and learning information technology skills. In a technology- driven era, opening up these new doors to 4-H members is more important than ever. This month, 4-H'ers helped Missouri youth prepare for the troubling anniversary of last year's terrorist attacks. ParentLink, part of the 4-H youth development office in Missouri, provided support to parents, childcare providers, and communities. The ParentLink service creates educational programs and offers resources on parenting and working with children. During a time when our youth may be confused about the terrifying events of September 11, 4-H has taken a lead role in helping parents and children cope. Mr. Speaker, Missouri 4-H, not unlike their counterparts throughout the United States, has distinguished itself in this anniversary year. As we celebrate 100 years since the inception of this outstanding community service program, I encourage anyone who is interested in joining or volunteering for 4-H to get involved in this worthwhile initiative.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that a longtime community and business leader in Jackson County, MO, will be receiving the Humanitarian of the Year Award at the Truman Heartland Community Foundation annual gala dinner, ``A Salute to Hometown Heroes.'' Mr. Allen Lefko has demonstrated a strong commitment to the area and its economic development and has helped to ensure a brighter future for all residents and businesses. Mr. Lefko has developed and maintained an excellent reputation through the years by his many achievements. He is the founder, President, and CEO of Noland Road Bank; Chairman of the Board and CEO of the Bank of Grain Valley and Grain Valley Bancshares, Incorporated; President of the Independence Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; President of the Independence Rotary Club; member of the Independence Regional Health Center Board of Trustees; founder, President, and Treasurer of the Association for Industrial Development for Independence; President of the Suburban Banker Association and the Kansas City Clearing House Association; President of the Grain Valley Economic Development Council; and Choices program sponsor and instructor. Mr. Lefko has volunteered much of his time to the communities of eastern Jackson County. He has served on many YMCA and Boy Scout committees and has been engaged in such important committees and boards as the Grain Valley Arts and Beautification Council Fund, Grain Valley Senior Citizens Nutrition Program Fund, and the Association for Industrial Development for Independence Scholarship Fund. Mr. Lefko has also participated in the I-Share Campaign, the selection of Rotary/City of Independence Teacher's Truman Scholarship Fund recipients, Independence and Grain Valley Chambers of Commerce, the Board of Directors of the Grain Valley Assistance Council, and he was an auctioneer for the Grain Valley Assistance Council annual fund drive. Mr. Speaker, I am certain that my colleagues will join me in wishing Allen Lefko all the best. We thank him for over 40 years of dedicated service to eastern Jackson County.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that a longtime community leader in eastern Jackson County, MO, will be receiving the Citizen of the Year Award at the Truman Heartland Community Foundation annual benefit dinner. Mr. Kim Roam has demonstrated a strong commitment to the area and has helped to ensure a brighter future for the community. Mr. Roam began his community activity in the county in 1983 after he joined the law firm Cochran, Oswald, McDonald Roam & Moore, P.C. Since that time he has served as President of the Blue Springs Jaycees, Chairman of the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce, Grain Valley School District Parent Teacher Support Board Member, the Valley Arts and Beautification Council Member and a member of the Grain Valley Optimist Club. Mr. Roam has also enjoyed recognition for being spotlighted as Blue Springs' Outstanding Citizen of 1994, as Rotary Citizen of the Year 1995, and as co-recipient of the Commerce Bank William T. Kemper Foundation Blue Springs Community Service Award, which he shared with his spouse, Debbie. Mr. Kim Roam has distinguished himself as a community leader in eastern Jackson County. He has and continues to make his friends and family proud. I am certain that my colleagues will join me in wishing Kim Roam and his family all the best.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that a long and exceptionally distinguished career has come to an end. Mr. Richard Gray, of Marshall, MO, has retired as Executive Director of the Missouri Valley Human Resource Community Action Agency. Mr. Gray began his work at the Missouri Valley Human Resource Community Action Agency 13 years ago in February of 1989. The MVHR Community Action Agency has a myriad of programs to assist low-income people in the communities of Carroll, Chariton, Johnson, Lafayette, Pettis, Ray and Saline counties. Under Richard's leadership the agency has thrived and has been improved considerably. The Affordable Housing Development Program, which offers decent, affordable apartments around the community, was conceived and has flourished under his leadership. Mr. Speaker, Richard Gray has dedicated 13 years to the MVHR Community Action Agency, serving with honor and distinction. The people of Central Missouri have greatly benefitted from his service. I know that the Members of the House will join me in wishing him all the best in the days ahead.