Rob Simmons

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation important to victims of crime and their families. The Victims of Crime Act, or VOCA, was a tremendous victory in the fight to aid those affected by crime. It established a trust fund composed of criminal fines, forfeited bail bonds, penalty fees and special assessments collected by the U.S. Attorney's Offices, U.S. Courts and Federal Bureau of Prisons. Sadly, a spending cap was installed on the VOCA trust fund. This trust fund generates close to $1 billion dollars each year, yet only an average of $535 is actually distributed annually to the states. While state crime victim assistance programs struggle to remain fully funded, the balance just sits there unused. My legislation, the ``Victim of Crime Fairness Act of 2003'' would eliminate this spending cap and direct the money toward its original intention, helping victims of crime. Every day we see in our local news stories of homicides, sexual assaults, child abuse, drunk driving accidents, kidnapping and arson. The list goes on and on. I applaud President Bush for his efforts to strengthen and organize security on all fronts for our country. Preventing all crimes, whether they are acts of terrorism or domestic abuse, is the first step in creating a more peaceful world. However, when a crime does occur there is a victim. This victim is stripped of their security, their dignity, and often times their physical capability to function normally in the day-to-day world. Eliminating the spending cap on the VOCA trust fund would allow victim advocates to do their job. It is a fact; helping mend people's lives that have been tragically altered by crime cannot be done for free. My state of Connecticut loses almost $5 million a year due to the VOCA cap. This money could make all the difference in thousands of peoples lives. Connecticut's State Victim Advocate James Papillo wrote, ``The programs funded by the VOCA fund benefit crime victims in Connecticut through direct financial support and crime victim support services. These funds help crime victims when they most need it. Given the substantial reduction in the amount of funds available to the states caused by federal earmarks, and the real need for increased services to crime victims in Connecticut, it is clear that removal of the cap is necessary to ensure that Connecticut will be able to meet the needs of crime victims.'' The Victims of Crime Fairness Act of 2003 is common sense legislation. I ask my colleagues to join me in helping victims of crime by eliminating the VOCA fund spending cap.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the reauthorization of a welfare program that has brought confidence and helped restore a sense of self-worth and freedom to thousands of my constituents who have fallen on hard times. Reauthorizing the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, or TANF, program is and should be a top priority, both for my state and our country. We have come far in giving Americans better opportunities but there is much left to do. The landmark welfare reform Congress undertook seven years ago has been a success. Caseloads have gone down. And states now have the flexibility to spend the money in areas where it is most needed. But even more important is the fact that welfare reform has brought to millions of American citizens economic and social freedom, the feeling of self-satisfaction that comes with a job well done and a goal or milestone reached. And though this reform has enjoyed a strong show of success, we should be content to rest until all our work is done. This bill offers such a commitment. States will receive each and every year between now and 2008 $16.6 billion. This includes an increase in the Child Care and Development Block Grant, which goes directly to helping mothers and fathers provide better opportunities to their children, as well a measure to provide financial support to mothers newly off welfare. This welfare program has been a success nationally and in Connecticut. I speak of Richard Morgan, a 32-year-old resident of North Stonington. Richard enrolled in the Job Search Skills Training (JSST) class offered through the state welfare office. ``It was very good, excellent,'' he said. ``I learned some things I hadn't known before, like how to market myself. I learned how to write a resume, how to make goals.'' Richard now has the liberty to pursue the job and a life of his choosing. I speak of Milagros Medina, a 28-year-old single mother of three. As a requirement of her federal welfare assistance, Medina went to a Jobs First orientation at the Connecticut Works Center in New London. After this training, Medina interviewed with Brian Kingsley, a Food Service Director, trying to get a job as a nutritionist. ``Now whenever I have a job opening,'' he says, ``I go the Connecticut Works Center first. I see them as a pre-screening support agency.'' Milagros now has the freedom to use her own merits as an asset. In Connecticut, federal action and reform has made possible our Jobs First Employment Services Program, a resource to those out of work who need guidance, training and the tools to find their path. As Richard and Milagros will tell you, this program works. If we search, we can find proof in the numbers. Connecticut caseloads have gone from 38,891 families in 1997 to nearly 12,000 in 2002. Over 60 percent of our state's families on welfare are engaged in some form of work activity. But numbers are not the true merit of this program. The heart of welfare is in its ability to offer these are men and women with new opportunities, new freedoms a new sense of self-determination. Every American has the chance, the right, to know that the doorways to success are open to him or her. This action we are taking the reforms we have put into place is that doorway. Mr. Chairman, this welfare offers hope where there was none. It helps develop the skills, the motivation, and more importantly, the confidence and freedom to reenter the workforce. That is a right that should be available to all hard-working men and women in America. Our state programs and local officials are getting the job done. It is time for Congress to do the same.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor an individual dedicated to public service, a leader in his community and an example to us all, the late Joseph Noel Sachatello III from Waterford, Connecticut, who died this month in the line of duty. Joseph was a well-known and beloved member of the neighboring Montville (CT) police force. For him being a protector of the peace was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, the pinnacle of a successful career in service to town, state, and country. His love for his work shown through his enthusiasm for his job. In recognition of his service, his name will be carved into a memorial for police officers in Meriden, Connecticut. Joseph served my state and region faithfully. This honor is much earned. We will miss him. At Joe's funeral, a company of 1,200 uniformed officers stood at attention, and more than 450 officers, friends, family and neighbors came to mourn his passing. Joe touched the lives of many individuals in his community. He was proud of whom he was and where be came from. And in his pride we found and will continue to find inspiration. It is men like Joe that move the men and women in this room to carry forth with their mission. So his passing is a tragedy but his life was a blessing. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends. He will be missed but not forgotten. Mr. Speaker, I would encourage the Members of the House of Representatives to join me in heartfelt appreciation for this great man. I would also like to ask the House to join me in extending our deepest condolences to Joseph's parents, Joseph N. Sachatello Sr. and Elaine Geiger Sachatello as well as his wife, Lisa and their six-month old son, Anthony.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 62, recognizing the members of the United States Armed Forces who were held prisoners of war during the Vietnam War, while calling for a full accounting of the 1,902 members of the Armed Forces who remain unaccounted for from the Vietnam War. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, and a veteran of the Vietnam War, I take great care in this matter. For generations, Americans have taken extraordinary steps to account for all members of our Armed Forces who were lost fighting to preserve the freedoms we enjoy today. I wish to share with my colleagues the compelling story of Captain Arnold Holm, a native of Waterford, Connecticut, whose recovery case remains active. Captain Holm was declared killed in Vietnam when his helicopter was shot down on June 11, 1972. Arnie Holm was a sports star in high school, when to Springfield College on a sports scholarship and left to enlist in the U.S. Army. He was fighting for what he believed in when his helicopter was hit in the summer of 1972. In an even more tragic twist, a second helicopter, sent to execute a rescue mission for Capt. Holm and his men, was also shot down, resulting in the death of pilot Lt. McQuade and his entire crew. After relations with the Vietnamese government improved, missions to discover and recover the remains of nearly 2,000 personnel lost in Vietnam began. While the crash sites of Capt. Holm and Lt. McQuade were very close to one another, only the remains of Lt. McQuade were recovered. This year the United States will support a recovery mission in Vietnam to seek and recover Capt. Holm. As we consider legislation to recognize the sacrifice made by Prisoners of War, we also commit again to accounting for all armed services members who remain Missing in Action. We must find and return the remains of Capt. Holm, and all MIAs, so that their families and friends see the real commitment our government has for our men and women in uniform.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. I rise today here on the House floor to honor a college basketball team that has not lost a game since March 2001, the pride of eastern Connecticut, a model for our Nation's youth: the University of Connecticut's women's basketball team--the Lady Huskies. On January 18 of this year, our Huskies won their 55th consecutive game, breaking a record that has held strong since 1982. No other NCAA Division I women's basketball team has won more games in a row. And none has recently shown the ability to put an unbeatable team on the court year after year. It is amazing to think that in two years, the Huskies are 123-4. There have been bumps along the road. On the 15th of this month, the game against Seton Hall where they tied the streak, they shot under 30 percent and nearly lost in the final moments. But, as great teams do, they found a way to win. They rose to the occasion that day and made the shots that counted. Coach Geno Auriemma said two days later, ``Maybe I should say that I saw it coming. That's how legends are made. Isn't this the place where legends are born?'' It is the dedication of Coach Auriemma and his players--past and present--who make the court of Gampel Pavilion a place where records are set, role models emerge, and legends are indeed born. Thank you for giving us a piece of history. Here's to 55 more consecutive wins.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce my first legislative initiative of the 108th Congress--the ``Route 11 Greenway Act of 2003.'' This bill authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to acquire land for a greenway along the proposed construction of Route 11 in eastern Connecticut. Route 11 is a state road, initially intended to connect Connecticut's state capital region to its southeastern shoreline, making it a vital transportation link for the region. The road has been unfinished for over thirty years. As a result, traffic is forced onto Route 85--a local, 2-lane, 18th-century country road incapable of absorbing today's volume of traffic in a safe and efficient manner. And the problem is only getting worse. The site of numerous accidents--and many of those fatal--the Federal Highway and Transit Administration gives the Route 11 corridor a failing service grade in many places and projects mostly failing grades in the coming years as traffic increases. The bottom line is simple: the completion of Route 11 is critical to the safety of Connecticut motorists. And further inaction is unacceptable. Unfortunately, the environmental review process has delayed completion of Route 11 for three decades. Connecticut travelers have paid the price for this delay--some of them, with their lives. This is unacceptable. I am here today to reject the idea that environmental concerns and transportation safety are mutually exclusive ideals. In fact, I have long believed that environmental stewardship and transportation projects do not have to be inherently competitive pursuits. Instead, if we are willing, these interests can serve each other. That is why I stand before my colleagues today to introduce legislation establishing a greenway along the proposed construction of Route 11, from Salem to Waterford, Connecticut. My bill specifies that the land acquired for this greenway will be in addition to any land otherwise required to mitigate the environmental impacts of the roadway construction. This region has seen rapid sprawl and unprecedented economic change, making it increasingly ripe for growing development. Knowing this, the Route 11 and greenway projects offer an environmental opportunity to preserve land that will otherwise be lost to development. This is a win-win. It is time to move forward. The completion of Route 11 and an associated greenway have been unanimously endorsed by the chief elected officials of the twenty municipalities in the region acting through the Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments. I am honored to have the support of several of my Connecticut colleagues for this bill and proud to introduce this important legislation in the interests of environmental preservation and the safety of Connecticut motorists. I look forward to working with my colleagues in passing the Route 11 Greenway Act of 2003.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. Mr. Speaker, I am a Vietnam veteran. I served 18 months in uniform in that country. As someone who has seen the ugly face of war, I do not embrace it as a policy choice, nor is it my first choice, but as a choice we sometimes have to make. I believe that preparation for war and a demonstration of national will to engage in war can be a way to avoid war, and I also believe that diplomacy without the threat of military action can be a hollow exercise in extreme cases. Right now, we are faced with an extreme case. There is no doubt that Saddam Hussein is a menace. Our intelligence tells the story of brutality, savagery, patterns of aggression, deception, and defiance. It shows the danger that Saddam Hussein poses to our country, to his region, and to the world. His ouster could bring peace and stability, and it could also inflame further violence and instability. How we do what we do in this case is as important as what we do. In dealing with the issue, I have asked myself a question: Does Iraq's intent and capability to use weapons of mass destruction pose a clear and present danger to the United States, to our allies, or to Israel? And based on a reading and hearing of information available to me, I believe that the danger to the United States is clear. Whether or not it is present is less certain. For the continental United States, the danger may be 6 months away or it may be 6 years away, depending on a number of variables. For Israel, for some of our troops abroad, for our NATO ally Turkey, the danger is certainly clear and present. Given this assessment, diplomacy and multilateral action are still reasonable options to use against Hussein, and they should be encouraged. That is why I intend to vote for the Spratt amendment, which maintains substantial focus on diplomacy and multilateral action. My decision to support this amendment is not an easy one, but the stakes in this situation are very high. Over the past year, the intelligence community and committees of this Congress have tried to connect the dots on the vicious attack that took place on September 11, and the challenge for us today is to connect the dots once again but before another and potentially more lethal attack. There are risks and consequences if we act; there are risks and consequences if we do not act. I lost friends in the Vietnam War, and I am reminded of that every time I go down to the Wall. But I lost neighbors on September 11, and I am reminded of that every time I see the World Trade Center. On balance, I feel the greatest risk is through inaction, which is why, if the Spratt amendment fails on the floor tomorrow, I intend to vote for the bipartisan resolution. A vote for the bipartisan resolution is not a vote for war, it is a vote for will. It is a statement of national unity that says to Saddam Hussein, you are a menace and a bully to your own people and to your neighbors. You must disarm. You have exhausted our patience. We will join the United Nations and the world community and work with them against you in this cause, but, at the 11th hour, we will be prepared to act. We cannot wait for the smoking gun. A gun smokes only after it has been fired, and that may be too late for another American city, our troops abroad, a NATO ally, or Israel. When it comes to weapons of mass destruction, we must connect the dots before the next attack, not after it has occurred.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Oklahoma for yielding time to me, and I thank him for his sponsorship of House Concurrent Resolution 301, which expresses support of the Congress for the American Gold Star Mothers, for the Blue Star Mothers of America, and for our Armed Forces. I also commend the American Legion for its support of the Blue Star program. We have heard, Mr. Speaker, that during World War I and during other conflicts, it was the custom for citizens in our country to hang a blue star banner in the windows of their homes or in the windows of their places of business to commemorate the fact that a family member or an employee of that business was serving in uniform overseas in difficult and dangerous circumstances. We have also heard of the tragic news that when a family or a business would learn that that loved one or that employee was killed in the line of duty or died as a result of wounds, that blue star would then become a gold star, and that mother, that mother would lose her son or her husband or her loved one. The blue star program is a program whose time has come for us here in America. It is a time for this program to be reinvigorated. That is what this resolution does. In my home district of eastern Connecticut, we have a Blue Star Highway and we also have a Gold Star Highway and a Gold Star Bridge. Not every State or every district can honor the gold star mothers and the blue star mothers with a bridge or a highway, but something that we can all do, we can all do, is present a blue star banner to those constituents who have a family member or an employee serving in uniform. Recently, I had the opportunity to honor several constituents who were serving in the Armed Forces. They would be Jason Tinelle, who currently serves in Bosnia as an infantry platoon sergeant with the U.S. Army, and also Torpedoman First Class Richard Messick, who currently serves aboard the USS Hartford. When I presented these banners to their family members, to their spouses and to their children, there were literally tears in their eyes, tears in their eyes because this Congress recognized the sacrifice of their loved ones, and also the burden of those families. This is an important resolution. This is a resolution which conveys this Congress' support for the men and women of our Armed Forces and for the mothers who wait at home, hoping beyond hope that that blue star does not turn into a gold star.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Leah A. Cunningham of Niantic, CT. Leah Cunningham was named a national winner in the 2002 Voice of Democracy Program and received the $1,500 Department of Colorado and Auxiliary Award. Leah was sponsored by VFW Post 5849 and its Ladies Auxiliary in East Lyme, Connecticut. I applaud the achievements of Leah Cunningham and ask that her award- winning essay be submitted into the Congressional Record. [lsqb]From the 2001-2002 VFW Voice of Democracy Scholarship Contest[rsqb] Reaching Out to America's Future (By Leah Cunningham of Connecticut) Yiyia, what is your advice for me and my role in helping America to have a better future? ``I came to this country at only 12 years old, alone and frightened of the unraveling journey ahead. I immigrated from Greece, but I soon became a loving citizen of this great land called America. I have learned that for America to have a better future, we must trust and learn from the issues of the past.'' And then, my Yiyia (which is Greek for grandma) would smile in her strong oak rocking chair, gazing out the window of her apartment. Yiyia would have faith in the youth of America and their love for a country. She had seen the beginning stages of World War I as torpedoes were launched at her boat; she had watched America slowly enter World War Two, and thankfully, she died before her eyes would witness the devastation of the worst terrorist act to ever assault American soil: The destruction of the New York trade center towers by two hijacked airplanes. These horrific events of September 11th have sparked a new found interest in our past and pride. Have we perhaps become more aware of our duty to create a peaceful life for our youth? The idea is to reach out to America's future, enabling our children to create a better world, providing them with knowledge, insight. Someday as a grandmother, I hope to share with my grandchildren the knowledge a nation has touched my existence with. I will reach out to America's youth-- empowered in good faith to help America's future. Our nation has indeed suffered tragedy but at the same time, we have been blessed by devoted American citizens striving towards a common goal: to make America a peaceful nation. Firemen, Red Cross volunteers, policemen, and average American citizens are so diligently working in New York City, to defy evil and restore the site of utter human devastation. We have refocused our priorities, acknowledging kindness, not only kindness for our friends and relatives, but a rejuvenated sense of benevolence towards strangers and fellow Americans. I see a confident nation, converging together, providing that we will not fall, we will not falter, we will not fail in a time of unforeseen cruelty towards our freedom land. We are reaching out to America's future in quiet and bold ways. I even see a rebirth of historical values and national pride. President George Washington wrote in his 1796 farewell address: ``The unity of government which constitutes you one people is also now dear to you. It is justly so, for it is a main pillar in the edifice of your real independence, the support of your tranquilly at home, your peace abroad; of your safety; of your prosperity; of that very liberty which you so highly prize . . .'' Washington's words ring across more than 200 years to reach America today and in the future. The future of America depends on our ability to secure unity and influence the well being of active American citizens. Simply requiring a civics or history course for high-school graduation is not enough. We should urge our youth to become involved in the social fabric of the community. The little things truly aide in reaching out to America's future: encouraging youth to register for voting, involving teenagers in mock political systems, having children understand the American flag, and ensuring appreciation towards war veterans and their roles in providing long-standing freedom in America. I have come to think of it as my responsibility, my mission, to in some way reach out to America's future. My grandparents remember where they were when Pearl Harbor was attacked by the Japanese. My parents remember where they were when John F. Kennedy was assassinated. And, I will forever remember exactly where I was on September 11th, 2001, when terrorists attacked our nation, killing thousands. My greatest achievement will be if a defining moment of my grandchildren's life is not a catastrophic pre-empt to war, or a brutal disheartening assassination of a loved president, or an act of horrific human destruction. But rather, their moment of true American unity and love for a nation will be when their grandmother reaches out to their curious eyes and big hearts, and tells them of her experiences as an American and what they must do to hopefully following her patriotic footsteps. As Thomas Jefferson suggested in his first Inaugural Speech, our principles for peace in the future depends on the ability to historically, look back, in order to look forward. Jefferson states, ``. . . Let us hasten to retrace our steps and to regain the road which alone leads to peace, liberty, and safety.'' The youth of America will bloom with bright hearts and clear visions if they are mindful of America's pursuits and ``retrace their footsteps'' of answers. America is living and breathing, and within this country there is embedded a recipe for survival and for peace. Our youth needs the support and encouragement of patriotic citizens. We must trust in the goodness of people, and work towards a humane world, with the youth of America as leaders towards peace and justice. We must start with the seeds of tomorrow, the children of America's future, to not only establish a long-term remedy for terrorism, but to maintain strength, pursue unity, and forever sustain national loyalty.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, one year ago today our nation endured an attack by a dedicated and dangerous enemy. Since that day we have seen that the principles and ideals that are the foundation of America are far stronger than any of the steel and concrete that fell that day. We are gathered to remember the innocent lives that were taken. The district that I represent, the Second District of Connecticut, lost a number of wonderful people on September 11th. The names of some of them follow: Josh Piver, of my hometown of Stonington, worked at Cantor Fitzgerald on the 105th floor of the World Trade Center. Josh loved jazz, loved living in New York City and had an exuberant passion for life. He was a fine young man with a bright future. Madeline Amy Sweeney, a flight attendant for American Airlines Flight 11, the first jet to strike the World Trade Center. Displaying a courage while under tremendous pressure, she proved that on that day a loving wife, and a caring mother and daughter, could also be a hero. She used her cell phone to report what was happening and the information she provided helped us identify the attackers. She jump- started our investigation. Her parents live in Norwich, Connecticut. Ruth McCourt, a homemaker from New London, Connecticut, and her four- year-old daughter, Juliana, were on United Airlines Flight 175 bound for Los Angeles. They were on their way to enjoy a vacation at Disneyland. Their jet crashed into the south tower of the World Trade Center. James Greenleaf, Jr., a 32-year-old history buff, was a football star in high school. He worked on the 92nd floor of the World Trade Center. His friends said he was the type of individual who would spend a week's vacation helping an old friend build a new house. Ed Calderon, 43, was a security guard for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. He loved to dance and especially loved the salsa. He had worked at the World Trade Center for 22 years and was last seen running toward the north tower after helping dozens of workers reach safety. He was hoping to help a few more people just before the building collapsed. Bruce Eagleson, 53, a vice president of the Westfield Group, was at a meeting on the 17th floor of the World Trade Center when a jet struck the building. His oldest son called after the first plane hit and urged him to leave. He told his son he was helping to evacuate people and promised he would get out. Mr. Eagleson had hoped to retire within seven years. He loved fishing and golf. Eric Thorpe, 35, was the star quarterback of his undefeated high school football team. He was one of the top salesmen at Keefe, Bruyette and Woods. But he kept success in the business world in perspective. He helped run a soup kitchen during college, worked as a Big Brother and participated in Hands Together, an anti-poverty program in Haiti. His friends knew him for his nonstop sense of humor. Eric Evans, 31, was an easy-going individual who was determined to succeed in business. He also loved to garden and enjoyed tending his tomato and basil plants. His friends said he loved animals, except for the squirrels that would get into his tomatoes. These fine people, and all the others who were taken from us on September 11, 2001, leave behind families and friends and lives that were full of the promise of tomorrow. Today it is appropriate that we honor their memory. But this is more than a day of remembrance. This is a day to recommit ourselves to the values that are the foundation of America. Freedom, justice, honor and an unwavering belief in self-government--those are the values we believe in and they are the values that those we remember today believed in as well. This is a day to keep in mind that there is a great and profound difference between the use of force to liberate and the use of force to enslave. And this is a day to recommit ourselves to our love of our country. Let us join together and appreciate America's history and stand firm in support of our institutions and the duties of citizenship. This is a day to look to the future. A great deal of learning in our nation has traditionally taken place when families gather around the kitchen table at mealtime. I hope that beginning tonight all American families will take time to discuss today's events around the dinner table. Talk together about what it means to be a citizen of this great nation. Share your thoughts with each other about what the events of today mean to you, your family and friends. John Winthrop, one of the Pilgrims who came to this new world, described it as a ``shinning city upon a hill.'' Today, with our prayers, we remember those who are gone. Let us also direct our efforts to ensure, for our sake and for the sake of those yet to come, that this shining city on a hill will remain a beacon of freedom and hope that will forever reach out to embrace the aspirations and dreams of all the people of the world.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, a great many things changed on September 11, 2001. Among them, Americans began thinking differently about air travel, and we all gained a greater respect for those who are pledged to guarantee our safety as we fly. For its part, Congress has moved to make air travel safer, and I have not doubt we will do more. But one of the main lines of defense against events in the air rests with the pilots and flight crews. The professionalism, courage and common sense exhibited by these individuals is clearly exemplified in the actions of Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney, who was a flight attend aboard American Airlines Flight 11 on September 11. That was the first aircraft to crash into the World Trade Center. Showing courage under pressure, Amy was one of the first individuals to use a cell phone and notify the world of the hijackings that were underway. Her last acts of bravery were critically important in identifying and exposing those terrorists who threatened our lives, our country and our values. Ms. Sweeney is a true American hero. She was many things to many wonderful people, a faithful wife, a loving mother, and a devoted daughter. But she will be remembered by most Americans for her extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty on a fateful day. Consider this--those who hijacked American Airlines Flight 11, had years of training and preparation for their terrible mission. They had plenty of time to consider what they were going to do. But for Amy, the decisions of a lifetime were compressed into a few terrible minutes. Yet she responded with tremendous courage, calmness and common sense. She did her duty in the face of death. And at the last moment, she called out to God for salvation. I had the honor earlier this year to attend a ceremony in Massachusetts where she became the first individual to be awarded the ``Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney Award for Civilian Bravery.'' It is in recognition of Amy Todd Sweeney's heroism and courageous spirit that this award was created. Future recipients--awarded annually on the anniversary of her death-- must demonstrate exceptional bravery, without regard for personal safety, in an effort to save the life or lives of another or others in actual or imminent danger. It is a fitting tribute to her conduct that this award has been established. There can be little doubt that many people are alive today because of her quick thinking and her heroism. Her actions remind us that courage is rightly esteemed as the first of human qualities because it is the quality that guarantees all others. And we should remember that courage does not mean an absence of fear, because without fear there can be no courage. Courage is doing the thing you think you cannot do. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the Record a recent article from the New London Day entitled, ``A Hero On Flight 11, She Put Her Job First: Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney.'' May God bless and keep you, Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney, and may God bless America. A Hero on Flight 11, She Put Her Job First: Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney 9-11: The Shadow Of A Day (By Bethe Defresne) Once the extended family of Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney verified that she was aboard the flight, there was no waiting for a miracle. There was no use praying that the blond, blue- eyed young mother with the dazzling smile had been caught in some pocket of hope within the ashes of the World Trade Center, and that somehow she would rise up and come home to them. Relatives and friends of victims who worked in the towers would spend days or even weeks holding off the inevitable. But for Sweeney's loved ones, there was only the swift, burning onslaught of grief. She was a flight attendant on American Airlines Flight 11, the plane that hit the north tower at 8:48 a.m. on Sept. 11, when the world still thought it must have been some terrible accident. Sweeney's colleagues in air control back at Logan International Airport in Boston, where the flight had taken off that morning bound for Los Angeles, were among the few who knew better--because she had told them. Calmly, and with painstaking attention to detail, Sweeney had explained that the plane was being hijacked. What she said would later help federal investigators reconstruct how the plane was taken over. Sweeney reported the seat numbers of the hijackers, including suspected ringleader Mohamed Atta, and the progress of their assault. She described the landscape below after the flight was diverted, right up until the shocking end. Her last words were, ``I see water and building. Oh my God! Oh my God!'' Sweeney's father, William A. Todd of Norwich, expects that some day he'll listen to a tape of conversations from the airplane. But he's not ready. This Sept. 11, Todd will be in Boston, the point of Sweeney's departure, not New York, the site of her tragic end, to mark the anniversary of the terrorist attacks. There he will witness the presentation of the second annual Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney Award for Civilian Bravery, posthumously presented to her in February with her family in attendance. Sweeney lived in Acton, Mass., with her husband, Michael, and their two children, Anna, 6, and Jack, 5. The award, in the form of a medallion, is to be given each year to a Massachusetts resident who exemplifies the courage that Sweeney displayed. Her reports from the doomed airplane have been credited with helping officials make the crucial decision to ground all airplanes on Sept. 11, perhaps saving many lives. It's good, Todd acknowledged, to have something to do and somewhere to go on this grim anniversary. And he really didn't want to be in New York. ``It's too much,'' he says. Mike Sweeney, who could not be reached, is reportedly coping as best he can, and also plans to be at the presentation in Boston on Wednesday. Reflecting today on what enabled his 35-year-old daughter to show such remarkable strength under intense pressure, Todd draws upon an apt and familiar analogy, that of a soldier in battle. As an Army war veteran who saw combat in Korea, Todd, 65, says his daughter was doing what she was trained to do in a situation like that: focus not on yourself, but on your job. Todd treasures an American flag carried in Sweeney's honor aboard an F-16CG Falcon during a Jan. 26 combat mission over Afghanistan. The flag was sent to him along with a citation from the 332nd Air Expedition Group, called ``The Tip of the Spear,'' certifying that the flag was carried ``In Memory of the Grace and Bravery of Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney, who lost her life to a terrorist attack on the WTC while serving on American Airlines Flight 11 on Sept. 11, 2001.'' Todd hasn't decided yet where to display the flag, which he handles reverently, like a flag that has been draped over a soldier's coffin. It was a nephew in the Air Force, Patrick Todd, who arranged through his commanding officer to have the flag carried and delivered. Sweeney came from a large extended family, with numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. She reveled in those myriad relationships, said Todd, and will be especially missed at the Sept. 28 wedding of her brother, William Todd III, who lives in Massachusetts. He was her only sibling. Sitting at the kitchen table in his home on Corning Road, Todd, who retired after 15 years as a welder at Electric Boat in Groton, appears to take some comfort in thinking about the lasting impression his daughter's life has made on others. But he is not a man given to displaying an excess of emotion. ``What can you say?'' he asks. ``Not a day goes by that I don't think of her.'' Tears well up in his tired eyes, but he won't let them go. His wife of 23 years, Doris, is more talkative and openly emotional. Sweeney was like a daughter to her, she says, although they only got together on visits, mostly during the summer. Todd and his first wife divorced when Sweeney was 10, and she continued to live with her mother in Nashua, N.H. It's not very difficult for family members to imagine what Sweeney, whom everyone called Amy, would have been doing this past year had she not been among the 3,008 victims of Sept. 11. She would have continued to love being a wife and mother, kept in close touch with her large circle of friends and family, and, of course, kept on flying. The 12-year veteran of American Airlines was at a point in life where, it seems, she had everything she wanted. ``She loved to fly, and she loved to travel,'' says Todd. She especially relished trips to the Caribbean. The flight to Los Angeles was also one of her favorites, Todd says, because she got a layover in California. After Sweeney graduated from high school, before she married and went to flight attendant school, she took a year off to live and travel in California, says Todd. This was her one real fling with being totally carefree. But shouldering responsibility was something Sweeney apparently did willingly, with a modest touch that endeared her to family, friends and colleagues, as well as passengers. She was ``a natural at being a flight attendant'' wrote one of her peers in a tribute booklet put out by American Airlines and given to all the families of those who died on Flight 11. She was a genuine people person, it was said, always the first to volunteer when help was needed. In her heroic death, Sweeney is forever linked with one colleague in particular, fellow flight attendant Betty Ong. The two women worked as a team to alert ground officials about what was happening. The Todds have a tape of a Prime Time TV segment on the two women, hosted by Diane Sawyer. Sweeney's husband, Mike, is featured along with several members of Ong's family. So, too, are home videos of Sweeney playing and singing with her children. But most of the program is devoted to what happened on Flight 11. Doris Todd cries softly, and her husband sits stoically upright in his chair, as a Logan flight manager who got the first call recounts his conversations with Sweeney. ``Amy, honey,'' he began, ``what's going on?'' Everything after that was dark--throats slashed, orders from hijackers--but Sweeney remained purposeful and calm through it all. The Todds find this tape difficult to watch, but say they've looked at it several times. During the program, the Ong family reports that a bone and a flesh fragment from Betty Ong were recovered from the WTC site. ``Nothing was found of Amy,'' says Todd, not even a bit of DNA. But this is not something to dwell on, he says. He'd rather hold the flag that was carried over a battlefield in her honor, or point out the sign in her memory attached to his truck, the one he drove in the June parade for A Reason to Ride, an organization that raises funds for disabled and homeless veterans. There's been talk, Todd says, that Sweeney and some other Sept. 11 heroes might be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. U.S. Rep. Rob Simmons, R-2nd District, and Sen. Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts are among those who have proposed Sweeney for the prestigious award. The Todds haven't gotten involved in the debate over what kind of memorial should be erected at Ground Zero, but they do have two thoughts on the subject. ``It should be tall,'' they say. ``And it should have all the names, like the Vietnam War Memorial.'' Sweeney didn't have enough information in that early hour of Sept. 11 to go on the offensive, like the crew and passengers of United Flight 93, forced down in a field in Pennsylvania. But she died in service to her passengers and, it turned out, to her country. It's almost impossible to find a source of gratitude in the horror of Sept. 11. But the Todds say they're at least glad to know that almost to the last moment Madeline Amy Todd Sweeney was not living in terror, but helping others.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I am joined here today by my colleague, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Grucci), of the Second Congressional District of New York. I, of course, represent the Second Congressional District in Connecticut. We share a common border that runs right down the center of Long Island Sound. Located in the center of Long Island Sound is the Plum Island Research Center, an activity of the U.S. Department of Agriculture which, for 50 years, has been engaged in very sensitive scientific research into animal diseases. This is a very sensitive and very important activity, especially now, especially now when issues of bioterrorism raise the question as to whether America's food supply is safe. It is against this backdrop of national security and against this backdrop of Long Island Sound, a very precious and important environmental asset, that I rise today to make my remarks in support of the Operating Engineers Local 30 of the AFL-CIO which, for the first time in 50 years, the first time in 50 years, has gone out on strike against the Plum Island facility. These workers have been without a contract for 11 months. The last offer that they got from the civilian contractor degraded their pay and their benefits dramatically for the third time in the last 10 years. Finally, in desperation, with no other alternative available to them, they have gone out on strike. All they are asking for, all they are asking for at this point to go back to work is binding arbitration; binding arbitration. How difficult is that? How serious a request is that? Binding arbitration.

Mr. SIMMONS. I yield to the gentleman from New York.

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his comments. It is always a pleasure to work with him across district lines, across State lines, but for the common good and for a common purpose. The interesting thing about Plum Island is that over the 50 years of its sensitive and secure research, there have not been any significant accidents or issues that might concern us, but the question has to be raised: If all of the operating engineers, the people that operate the boats, the people that operate the water systems, the people that operate the incinerators and the air-conditioning systems of this sensitive biological research facility are taken off the island and are not there because of this strike, the people who are licensed to operate all of these facilities are not there and we bring in outside workers from other facilities around the country, which bear no relationship to this kind of research, what risks exist? I realize that the managers say everything is great, everything is fine. I do not believe it. I think that there is a security issue that we have to be concerned about. I think that the sensitive mission that takes place out there is being disrupted because of the strike, and it is over a few nickels and dimes of health benefits and health care. Mr. Speaker, this is a ridiculous situation for us to be in, when this body has authorized and appropriated literally billions of dollars in the fight against international terrorism and yet we are shortchanging reliable, honest, decent workers right here at home, right out there on Plum Island.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New York. I have had the opportunity to go to the picket line in my district in Connecticut and meet and talk with all of the workers there. They want to get back to work. One of them said his wife is 7 months pregnant. He is concerned about the future of his job. She is concerned about whether he will have enough money over the next couple of months so that they can deal with the arrival of a firstborn. Many of these workers have been out there for many years. They enjoy their work and they are good at it. But this contracting and recontracting and recontracting has degraded the numbers of the workforce and has put tremendous burdens and pressures on them. To take away pay and benefits at the same time and to ignore binding arbitration requests and, in fact, it appears to ignore a request for mediation that was supposed to have taken place on September 4, is ridiculous under the circumstances. Let me just share with the Chamber one situation we had a few years ago with the Naval Underwater Warfare Center in New London and in Newport, Rhode Island. When that facility was consolidated in Newport, all of the scientists who lived west of New London were now going to have to commute for an hour and a half to work. Many of the senior scientists retired or resigned because they did not want to do the commute. If Plum Island happens to be shut down because management cannot accommodate the marginal requests of the workers, where is this research going to be moved to? Ames, Iowa. And all of the dozens and dozens of skilled scientists and workers out there are going to have to make this critical choice: Do I move to Iowa, or do I find another job? Mr. Speaker, we have a situation here which is ridiculous, because the capabilities of this facility that has been operated smoothly for 50 years is now at risk, and at a time when bioterrorism and threats to the food supply are so critical, it is absurd, it is absurd that the debate over these nickels and dimes for health care should be allowed to be sustained.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to wish the National 4-H Program a happy 100th birthday. This is a wonderful milestone in the life of this national institution. The 4-H program began as a series of clubs for boys and girls in rural America. The 4-H taught young people a variety of skills related to farming by using a learning-by-doing strategy. The program has grown tremendously in scope and today encompasses a broad range of subjects, but hands-on learning remains at the center of the 4-H. Another constant for the 4-H is the organization's continued commitment to the 4-H's in its name--Head, Heart, Hands and Health. For 100 years this organization has provided opportunities for thousands of young people in my district and my state and to millions across the country. The 4-H teaches young people the importance of learning, kindness, a healthy lifestyle and helping one's neighbors. Those are great characteristics to instill in our young people. In my state of Connecticut, New London County's 4-H camp was founded in 1947 on 24.5 acres, in Franklin, as an education and recreational facility. The camp is open to any and all youth ages 16 to 17, and campers do not have to be members of the 4-H to attend. The camp provides these young people with an experience in group living in the great outdoors. Through a wide variety of activities that focus on self-development, environmental awareness and a concern for safety and health, campers develop a greater understanding of themselves, others and the world around them. The Middlesex County 4-H camp was established in 1962, on 90 acres in Moodus. This educational/recreational facility offers a mixture of traditional camping and innovative programs for young people. A variety of camp sessions offer programs for children between the ages of 7 and 14 and a Teen Camp is available for youths ages 13 to 16. From traditional sports to horsemanship to archery and creative arts, the camp achieves its mission to strengthen and uplift the youth's social, mental and physical development. The Windham-Tolland 4-H camp has served families since 1954. Located in Pomfret Center, the camp's 270 acres contains woodlands, cabins, recreational areas and a beautiful lake. Campers enjoy a variety of sports, arts and crafts, woodworking, canoeing and campouts. Like all 4-H camps, the staff at Windham-Tolland focuses on fostering leadership skills, enhancing self-esteem and increasing each camper's individual potential. In Connecticut, and across our nation, the 4-H continues to exemplify the very best of our youth and of America. I am pleased to wish them a Happy 100th Birthday.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition of H.R. 4965, the ``Partial-Birth Abortion Ban of 2002.'' Since Congress last voted on this issue two year ago, the U.S. Supreme Court, by a 5-4 vote, found that the Nebraska law making it a crime to perform so-called ``partial birth abortions'' was unconstitutional because it imposed an undue burden on women's decision to end a pregnancy and it lacked the constitutionally required exception to protect women's health. In spite of the U.S. Supreme Court's rulings, the ``Partial-Birth Abortion Ban of 2002'' fails to include heath exceptions for women and imposes an undue burden on a woman's ability to choose an abortion procedure. The difficult and personal medical decisions made by a woman, her families and her medical doctors should not be influenced by the agendas of politicians. A free people must assume responsibility to make vital decisions involving them; and not allow their decisions to be made by the federal government. While I remain concerned about the number of abortions in America today, I continue to fully support the U.S. Supreme Court decision. I will also continue to strongly support programs that can reduce the number of abortions worldwide. These include domestic and international family planning programs, age-appropriate education programs and increased availability of adoptive services.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the fiscal year 2003 Intelligence Authorization bill (H.R. 4628). Since the end of the Cold War we have permitted our intelligence community to grow weak by under funding accounts and imposing politically correct restrictions. Our nation cannot afford to keep its guard down. The live of our citizens are at stake. This legislation moves us forward in reconstructing our intelligence gathering and analytical capabilities. H.R. 4628 builds on the progress of last year's authorization measure adding more money in critical areas we have now identified as deficient in the analysis of the attacks on our country last September 11. This week the House will vote on the biggest restructuring of our government in 50 years so that we better meet the challenges of terrorism. But we should never think that structural changes alone could bring security. H.R. 4628 addresses a critical dimension of our security needs--better intelligence for early warning. This legislation enhances efforts to rebuild our Nation's human intelligence capabilities: sharpening skills and expertise and strengthening presence and reach. The measure addresses shortfalls in our intelligence community's analytical abilities so that we might fortify that capability and provide consumers of intelligence the precise data and thorough analysis they require. The measure also shores up shortfalls in the Defense Department's signals intelligence and Unmanned Airborne Vehicle programs. Directly addressing the shortage of capability in interrogation, the measure enhances our ongoing efforts to acquire valuable information from combatant detainees at Guantanamo Bay. Finally, the measure addresses the essential need to upgrade our intelligence community's language skills programs. I spent 10 years as an operation officer in the CIA. Five of those years were spent overseas in the Far East where my language training and ability was an important tool in my daily routine and success. I know that language skills are critical to operational effectiveness. Not only must we improve these skills for our operations officers but also for our communications specialist and analysts. Mr. Chairman, recently the Greek police arrested ten members of the Revolutionary Organization November 17. This elusive group has terrorized Greece for over 25 years killing more than a dozen diplomats, civilians and police officers. One person killed by that group was Richard Welch, the CIA station chief in Athens, whose name had been exposed by an anti-intelligence publication. Masked gunmen had cut him down in front of his home, a few days before Christmas. I remember his murder well. Later I would meet his widow and work with the late Senator John H. Chafee to pass the Intelligence Identities Protection Act in 1982 to protect other clandestine operatives from similar assassination. The dismantlement of this group is timely in that it reminds us of the importance of intelligence work today, and the risks involved for many who serve in our intelligence community. I find comfort that the assassins of Richard Welch have been captured, that Greek citizens are free of its terrors, and that justice may finally be served. Mr. Chairman, our intelligence community remains on the front lines of the war on terrorism. Many of them serve with great courage and without recognition. Many of them gather information at great risk to their lives and those of their families. They provide information of great value to the defense of our nation. This bill brings more resources, tools, skills, and more assets to the people whose tireless and courageous efforts help protect our nation. I strongly support this legislation and applaud the members of the committee and the staff on their fine work.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3645, the ``Veterans Health-Care Items Procurement Reform and Improvement Act of 2002.'' I would also like to take a moment and praise the hard work of the Veterans' Affairs Committee and staff for their endless support of veterans throughout the years. Included in this bill is legislation (H.R. 3418) I introduced earlier this year to name the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Community Based Outreach Clinic (CBOC), located on the grounds of the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT, the ``John J. McGuirk Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic.'' John J. McGuirk was a devoted patriot, a dedicated sailor and a great American. Working his way across the South Pacific as an enlisted salvage diver in the United States Navy during World War II, John McGuirk began his life long commitment to his nation and fellow veterans. Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, he served veterans across Connecticut. Whether it was finding a pair of crutches, gaining access for disabled veterans to vote or working with the VA Healthcare system to expand availability--John gave it his all. John saw first hand the extensive hardships placed on veterans as they traveled from all over the state to West Haven, CT to see VA physicians. John felt that veterans should not travel such distances to get proper treatment and worked tirelessly to open a VA clinic in Southeastern Connecticut. The VA opened a Veterans Outreach Clinic in New London with the willing help of the Coast Guard Academy, enabling veterans access to heathcare services. On behalf of the Members of the Connecticut delegation, Disabled Veterans of America, Paralyzed Veterans of America, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign wars, AMVETS and the United States Coast Guard Academy, I ask that all Members of Congress support this bill and honor the memory of John J. McGuirk.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this amendment. My State of Connecticut is home to two of the world's, the world's largest casinos. In fact, both of these casinos are about a 15-minute drive from my home; both are Indian casinos, and both were built within the last decade. When gaming came to Connecticut in the early 1990s, it was a fortuitous event. The Cold War had ended, defense cutbacks had affected our defense industry, our economy was in decline. Unemployment was high, and there was actually a net loss of population from the region. Indian casinos created thousands of jobs. They increased the State's revenues, and spared the region from an economic recession. The casinos purchase goods and services and pay upwards of $300 million a year to the State of Connecticut. Tribal members have been personally generous with their new wealth and support numerous community projects and charities. But with all of these benefits come some very real problems. Indian casinos place a substantial burden on small, local municipalities who have no right to tax, to zone, or to plan for these facilities. Small State and local roads are overburdened, again, with no offsetting tax revenues. Volunteer fire and ambulance services are overwhelmed to the point that some have shut down their operations altogether. Land taken into trust is removed from the tax rolls. Gambling addiction creates problems at home, in the schools, and in the workplaces. While Indian casino gambling in Connecticut has made two tribes very wealthy and has motivated other groups in Connecticut to seek Federal recognition, the fundamental question remains: To what extent has casino gambling improved the health and the wealth of Indian country as a whole, and what are the costs involved? I have read that 365 of the 561 Indian tribes do not have casinos. I am told that up to 80 percent of American Indians do not receive any benefit from gambling revenues, and we know that many continue to live in terrible poverty. That is why I support the provision of the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Wolf). A commission would examine how we can do a better job to help Indian tribes for whom gambling is not an option, either because of their geographic location or for other reasons; and it would also help examine how gambling affects the welfare of Indian tribes. Earlier amendments have focused on substantial increases in funding within this bill overall; tens, actually hundreds of millions of dollars. But this recommendation to establish a commission costs merely $200,000. It is a small price to pay. It is an insignificant price to pay. Recently, my hometown newspaper, The New London Day, editorialized in favor of the Wolf provision and they said, ``His amendment will ruffle some feathers, but Representative Wolf is asking questions worth answering.'' I concur with the editor, and I cannot understand why current information on an important issue is a problem. It would seem to me that current information on an important issue would be a plus, not a minus. Mr. Chairman, I ask my colleagues to oppose the amendment.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to have my name removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 4600.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, Mary ``Billy'' Boatwright, a wife, a mother, an athlete, a newspaper reporter, a tireless advocate of better education, and a member of the National Republican Committee for nearly two decades, passed away on May 31 at the age of 82, a victim of cancer. She was a model Republican, a woman of principle, and an integral part of my hometown, Stonington, Connecticut. Her family and friends mourn her and remember the way in which she gave her life to her community. Billy Boatwright was a role model for me and for the many people whose lives she touched. Friends who confided in her did so in faith. Candidates who sought her advice found a ready ear and a bright mind. Many of us can look back on our lives and find a person upon whose advice and counsel we built our careers and forged our ideals. For the people of Stonington Billy was that person. Billy believed in loyalty and was willing to elevate principle above party lines. Her decision to oppose a party nominee for Governor and support instead a lifelong friend forced her to give up her seat on the Republican National Committee. She also vacated her seat on the Stonington Republican Town Committee. In her absence the Committee made the decision not to fill her seat. After the election, Republican leaders invited her to return. This is one of many examples of the respect in which she was held by her peers. Mr. Speaker, politics does not build character. It reveals it. Those of us who knew Billy Boatwright had the honor of knowing a woman of the highest character, the image of honesty and learning, a woman who understood the importance of serving the interests of the public. She will be greatly missed. We are fortunate to have been a part of her life and even more fortunate that she was a part of ours. I would like to submit Westerly Sun columnist Jeff Mill's story on her legacy for the Congressional Record. [From the Westerly Sun] Stonington Loses ``Billy'' Boatwright, Political Legend (By Jeff Mill) Mary H. ``Billy'' Boatwright, a power in Republican politics on the national, state and local levels and an integral part of Stonington life for over 40 years, has died. Boatwright, who had been ill in recent months, succumbed to cancer Friday. She was 82. A wife, mother, sportswoman, newspaper reporter, staunch advocate of reading and learning, and member of the Republican National Committee for 17 years, she was described as ``a life force'' in Stonington since moving here with her husband, Victor, in 1957. Expressions of sympathy and admiration flowed in Saturday, as word spread of her death. (An obituary appears in the obituary section of the online Sun.) ``She was really a remarkable woman,'' declared Andrew W. Maynard, the warden--a post akin to mayor--of Stonington Borough. ``Her death is certainly an enormous loss to the Borough and really to the entire area of southeastern Connecticut.'' Spare and direct, Boatwright was the grand doyen of Republican politics in town and throughout the region. Candidates on the local and state levels regularly sought her out for advice and counsel. Those who didn't rarely succeeded. Yet, she was equally at home every August behind tables sagging with books in the Borough's Wadawanuck Square as part of the Stonington Community Center's annual Village Fair. She ran the book tables for years, and they became known as ``Billy's Books.'' Second District U.S. Rep. Robert R. Simmons, R-Stonington, was one of those who went to Boatwright for advice. ``As a Republican, she was a great leader,'' he said. ``I think she was the first woman to represent Stonington in the General Assembly, back when that was not an easy thing to do. ``She was a staunch member of the Republican Town Committee and a great mentor to people like me and Michael Blair (a former Borough warden) who wanted to get involved in politics but didn't know how. She really was an extraordinary woman.'' ``She loved to travel, and she had so many friends, and she was quite independent,'' said her daughter Mary T. ``Tolly'' Boatwright. ``She was so devoted to so many things--to her country and the democratic process and to the Republican Party. And yet, she never followed anything blindly.'' Boatwright was, for instance, a strong and loyal supporter of Gov. Lowell P. Weicker Jr., even when that became unfashionable in some circles. It was a measure of her loyalty that she bolted the Republican Party to join Weicker's A Connecticut Party--and in doing so gave up her seat on the Republican National Committee. ``I would put her, literally, in a handful--and I mean five people--who were the greatest influences in my career,'' the former governor said Saturday evening from his Virginia home. ``She had enormous integrity and a great sense of humor, and she was one of the most loyal people I know,'' Weicker said, noting that Boatwright gave up her seat on the RNC ``when just about any Republican woman in the state would have died for that seat. But that was Mary. ``Every leader should be surrounded by people with that integrity (who are willing to relay bad news even) when you don't want to hear it.'' Simmons recalled that when she resigned from the party to back Weicker's independent run for governor, ``I was chairman, and the town committee decided not to fill her seat. After the election, she was invited to come back and occupy the seat. That's just one sign of the respect in which she was held by her fellow Republicans.'' Her son, Bill Boatwright, mentioned another instance in which his mother remained loyal--to Richard Nixon, whom she first met during her postwar career as a newspaperwoman at the San Francisco Chronicle. He said ``she supported him and remained very hopeful that his policies'' would achieve the recognition she felt they deserved. ``As an individual, she would follow the strength of her convictions,'' he said. William S. Brown, a selectman and chairman of the Republican Town Committee, recalled Boatwright as ``a lovely lady. She was very bright and intelligent and a stalwart Republican.'' Respect and affection for Mrs. Boatwright crossed party lines. James M. Spellman, a Pawcatuck Democrat, was often in Mrs. Boartwright's sights during the 24 years that he served as Stonington's first selectman. And yet, he praised her Saturday, saying, ``Mary was an outstanding citizen of Stonington. She was very knowledgeable, and she always quietly offered her time for many different programs. It could be the (Stonington) Community Center, the town of Stonington, or Westerly Hospital. But I believe her first love, no doubt, was politics, in which she played a major role on the local, state and national level. ``I always admired her,'' Spellman continued, ``because she knew the issues and she worked in the best interests of our area, and I respected her as a friend and a political opponent.'' Boatwright was by equal parts direct and humorous. She did not suffer fools gladly, but she could be supportive and funny--often devastatingly so. Her youngest daughter, Tolly Boatwright, recalled just such an incident during World War II, when her mother drove a tractor at the North Island, Calif., Naval Station. ``She met Eleanor Roosevelt once and Mrs. Roosevelt said how interesting her job must be,'' Tolly said. ``And mother said she had only learned two things--how to swear and how to spit, although I think she already knew how to swear.'' Tolly reflected that it ``had to be a trial'' for such a dedicated Republican to meet the staunchly Democratic first lady. Maynard spoke of ``her enormous influence and commitment to the Borough and around the state.'' ``She had such dedication to her community and to her church,'' Maynard said. ``She was so dedicated to the (Stonington Free) Library, to the cause of learning and to volunteer work, and she did all that with great enthusiasm. ``I think of her just now standing in front of the (Borough) post office, speaking with someone and with her head thrown back in a laugh. It's really sad to think of her no longer being with us.'' ``She had a lot of energy, and she generated enthusiasm,'' First Selectman Peter N. Dibble said. ``She cared deeply for the people she befriended, and there certainly were many people in this community who benefited from her friendship. ``For those of us involved in politics, she was a party stalwart who touched the lives of many of us, but she did not limit herself to partisan politics. She helped numerous people in public life regardless of party lines.'' Maynard, Simmons, and Tolly Boatwright all mentioned a love of knowledge that pervaded Boatwright's life. ``Mother really cared about people no matter their age,'' Tolly Boatwright said. ``And if a child made the honor roll, she would cut out the (newspaper article about it) and send it to the parents. She championed children and academic achievement, and doing the best they can.'' Simmons said his daughter was one of those who received a clipping and a note of encouragement. Boatwright's love of learning extended throughout her entire life. ``She had an amazing intellectual curiosity that she carried even into her later years.'' Maynard said. ``In her 70s, I would see her still expanding her mind'' as they took courses at Connecticut College. Maynard is a Democrat, but he said ``even though she was a vigorous partisan, I had such a regard for her willingness to stay involved. I just had the greatest regard for her.''

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 5010, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2003 and I ask my colleagues to support this important legislation. This year's annual defense appropriations bill is good for both America and for my home state of Connecticut. This legislation provides the resources needed to fight the war on terrorism and build our nation's military infrastructure and readiness. This legislation continues our efforts at transforming our military for the threats of the future. The bill contains $4.1 billion for 23, F-22 fighter aircraft, each of which are powered by two F135 engines assembled by Pratt and Whitney in Middletown, Connecticut. The F-22 will ensure that the U.S. maintains air dominance in any conflict in the years ahead. The bill also continues our efforts at having the Pentagon buy smarter and more efficiently through continued research and development of the Joint Strike Fighter, now designated the F-35 and powered by the Pratt and Whitney award-winning F-135 engine system. Variants of one aircraft, the F-35, will eventually replace four aircraft, the F-16, the A-10, and the AV-8B and F-18 C/D, bringing important cost savings not only in production but in the maintenance and operation over the life of each aircraft. Building on our transformation to a more mobile force the bill approves $3.7 billion to procure 12, C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft; each of which are powered by four Pratt and Whitney F117 engines. The C-17 is the workhorse of getting our military to the fight and will be for years to come. For our Army, this bill contains funds for 4 additional Black Hawk helicopters, built by Sikorsky in Connecticut, for a total of 31 aircraft. Our ground troops greatly benefit from the speed, reliability, and safety of this first-class helicopter. For our Navy, this bill allocates $1.49 billion for one new Virginia Class attack submarine and over $1.03 billion for Trident Class submarine conversion. The Virginia Class and Trident conversion programs assure America's continual dominance of the seas well into the 21st century. Electric Boat, located in my district, has been manufacturing submarines for over a century. It manufactures the Virginia Class and designs much of the Trident conversion. For these systems, the bill includes an additional $7 million for research and development of new payloads and sensors for submarines, much of which will be done at Electric Boat, in Groton, Connecticut. As every regional military commander will attest, our Navy is stretched thin, especially our submarine force. These investments will add significant capability to the commanders in the field at low cost and low risk to the taxpayer. We must do continue to invest more in our submarine force. Finally, this bill again addresses the needs of our best asset in our military: our troops. The bill funds a 4.1 percent military pay raise and selected targeted pay raises to mid-grade and non-commissioned officers. It approves housing allowances to bring down military personnel's out-of-pocket housing expenses from 11.3 percent to 7.5 percent. For years much of the nation has taken the men and women in the military for granted. This brings needed relief to these gallant personnel. This is just a partial list of the support this legislation gives our men and women in uniform. When we pass this bill we will be providing for the financial and housing needs of our servicemen and women, who stand ready to go into harm's way anywhere in the world to defend our nation and our interests. It also allocates resources to continue our military's transformation to meet the challenges of tomorrow and it responds to the realities of the war on terrorism and sets us on course to meet the new challenges that unquestionably lie ahead. When I came to Congress I pledged to do more to help Connecticut's defense industries and the men and women who work so hard 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to defend our nation. Looking at this legislation, I am pleased with what has been provided thus far and I look forward to building on these successes. Mr. Chairman, this bill is a well-crafted bill to meet many of the needs of our military. I urge my colleagues to support the bill.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, in my 18 months in Congress, through the many town hall meetings, letters, e-mails and phone calls, I consistently hear the same concern from people of eastern Connecticut-- the rising cost of prescription drugs. We all heard about seniors who have cut their medication in half because they can't afford to take their entire prescription or a senior who has to choose between buying food and buying their medication. We see seniors who are confronted with this choice at supermarkets everyday. We need to lower the cost of prescription drugs for our seniors now. This concern is not perceived, but very real. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimated that in 1999, nearly 90 percent of Medicare beneficiaries filled at least one prescription. In 2001, the average Medicare beneficiary pay $1,756 on prescription drugs annually, filling approximately 22 prescriptions in that year. Next month, Medicare will turn 37 years old. The delivery of health care today is very different from the system of our parents and grandparents and very different from the way we cared for our seniors back in 1965. I believe Medicare needs to be improved to better reflect these changes and strengthened for the future. If Medicare were being designed today, it would include a prescription drug benefit. Because of the remarkable advances made in prescription drugs, seniors are living longer, with a better quality of life. Unfortunately, the promise of prescription drugs is very hollow for those who cannot afford them. Twenty-six states--including Connecticut--have already enacted some form of prescription drug assistance program and they are to be prescription drug assistance program and they are to be commended. I have long felt that the Federal Government should partner with states to help provide prescription drug relief to seniors, particularly to low-income seniors who have the greatest need. Earlier this year, in an effort to provide immediate relief for Connecticut's seniors who were feeling the financial pinch over paying for their medicine, I introduced ``Immediate Helping Hand'' legislation, which provides more than $48 billion to states to give those who can't afford prescription drugs a ``helping hand.'' My bill would provide Connecticut's ConnPACE program with more than $91 million per year and expand prescription drug coverage to thousands of seniors. My plan was a solid first step--a bridge to provide seniors with immediate assistance until Congress passed a more comprehensive prescription drug benefit through Medicare. But as of tonight, only 51 or so legislative days remain until Congress adjourns. I've come to realize with the short window of time left, its time to roll up our sleeves and work together on this issue. If Congress really wants to give seniors a prescription drug benefit, then we would need to do it now. The Ways and Means and the Energy and Commerce Committees have introduced a plan to provide a prescription drug benefit under Medicare that is voluntary and affordable and guarantees prescription drug coverage for all seniors. Our plan gives seniors immediate relief from the rising costs of prescription medications by providing a 30 percent discount off the top of their overall drug bill. While seniors would pay a $35 monthly premium and A $250 annual deductible, our bill provides 80 percent coverage for drug bills between $251 and $1,000 of out of pocket drug expenses and 50 percent coverage for the next $1,000. Finally, our plan provides 100 percent catastrophic coverage for out of pocket drug expenses over $4,500 a year, ensuring that no senior will be forced into bankruptcy because of their prescription medication bill during a long-term, serious illness. Our plan will lower the cost of prescription drugs now by providing a discount so that seniors can better afford their medications. Our plan will guarantee all senior citizens prescription drug coverage and provide additional assistance to low-income seniors. Our plan will improve Medicare with more choices and more savings and will strengthen Medicare for the future. Our plan is a reasonable solution that provides seniors with upfront savings on the high costs of drugs now as well as guarantee them a drug benefit under Medicare that doesn't sunset and can't be taken away. Our seniors have worked hard to save for their ``Golden Years.'' Yet the cost of prescription drugs is depleting their savings and jeopardizing their retirement security. Under our plan, seniors will be protected from run-away drug costs. Our plan is also of particular importance to women. Women have a higher life expectancy than men; yet often have lower incomes in their retirement and face additional costs after their husbands pass on. Speaker Hastert asked me to participate in a special Prescription Drug Action Team and I thank him for this opportunity. In this role, I have tried to advance the cause of providing a prescription drug benefit under Medicare by meeting with the President and members of his cabinet; hold outreach meetings with groups such as senior citizen advocates and representatives of pharmacies and drug companies; attend listening sessions at local senior centers, such as Rose City Senior Center in Norwich and the Colchester Seniors Center, and pharmacies; and participate in bipartisan discussions with other Members of Congress to find lawmakers with the same goals who will work with me to produce a plan that will help provide real relief to seniors in Connecticut as well as the rest of the country. Our seniors should not be forced to scrimp on food and shelter just to be able to afford their medicine. Older Americans deserve more savings and more choice when they fill their prescriptions, and I hope Democrats and Republicans will join together now to see that they receive meaningful prescription drug coverage. To delay is to deny. Lets get a prescription drug benefit signed into law now.

Mr. SIMMONS

Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the U.S. Armed Forces and the recognition of their services by emphasizing the importance of an American tradition, known as the Blue Star Banner Program. I would also like to take a moment to praise the American Legion for their tireless role in promoting traditions such as this and their endless support of veterans throughout the years. The service banner has had a long history in the United States dating back to World War I. These banners were displayed in communities across the nation in homes, businesses, churches and schools as an indication that a member of a family or organization was serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The blue stars of these banners were replaced with gold stars as service-members were killed or died as a result of war-time injuries. These banners saw their popularity peak during World War I and World War II, but have also been seen during the Korean War, Beirut, Grenada, Panama, Persian Gulf, Somalia, Bosnia and Saudi Arabia conflicts. It is time again, to show our support for the U.S. Armed Forces. America has found herself at a time of war due to the events of 9/11. As a result, our nation has been called once again to defend and uphold the moral obligations of freedom and democracy. The need for patriotism, a shared national unity and purpose directed at our common enemy, has never been clearer. I have been given the opportunity to honor several constituents who are serving in the Armed Forces. These men are Jason Tinelle, who currently serves in Bosnia as an infantry Platoon Sergeant, and TM1 Richard Messick, who currently serves aboard the USS Hartford. On behalf of the American Legion and a grateful nation, I presented the Blue Star Banner to their families and children as a symbol of their loved ones' endless dedication and sacrifice for patriotism and freedom. I strongly encourage all Members of Congress to honor their constituents by participating in the Blue Star Service Banner Program. Contact your local American Legion Office and encourage your media to promote this program and let the public know that this program is still strong. Let's do everything we can to stand behind the men and women who are fighting for America.