Joe Sestak

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. When I arrived off Afghanistan in charge of an aircraft carrier battle group, I knew as an admiral that a certain percentage of that carrier battle group in combat was gay. I always wondered how one could come home and say they don't deserve equal rights. I respect the differing opinion. It was 5,000 sailors on that aircraft carrier that I commanded. Their average age is 19\1/2\, and they just don't care. I honestly believe that when those who you are supposed to be leading are actually ahead of the leaders, leaders lose credibility. I joined up during Vietnam. We were having race riots on our aircraft carriers then. We worked through that. That night off Afghanistan when I first arrived, we had never had women pilots. I put up one woman with seven men. She was the one that disobeyed my orders and dove without permission and saved four Special Forces. My point is we don't do this just for equality. We do it because we want the best of all, whether it is race, whether it is gender, or sexual orientation. That is why I support the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor Pathways PA which this year celebrates 32 years of service to low-income women, children and families in the Greater Philadelphia area by helping them achieve economic independence and well-being. In these times of extraordinary economic hardship, this organization had stood tall to better equip disadvantaged families with the skills and tools needed to succeed in the workplace and create a safe and secure home. This dedicated group also offers job skills program wherein participants receive career counseling, computer and job training, and job placement services. For those transitioning from temporary assistance programs to the workforce, Pathways PA's EARN Center offers free services and incentives to prospective employers and employees. In addition to offering General Adult Education and Adult GED classes, Pathways PA is also a founding member of Families That Work, an organization that offers adult literacy classes. In addition to offering support and services, Pathways PA also publishes reports on issues important to Pennsylvanians such as Self- Sufficiency Standard for Pennsylvania, Ready to Compete? Pennsylvania's Community Colleges, and Elder Economic Security Initiative for Pennsylvania. These reports help raise awareness about issues that are imperative to the well-being and success of working families throughout the Greater Philadelphia region. This superbly led organization provides invaluable services to more than 6,000 displaced and disadvantaged families in Southeastern Pennsylvania every year. They provide a prescription drug discount program, which offers discounts of up to 85%, to help people who don't have prescription drug coverage or who take prescription drugs not covered by their insurer. The work that Pathways PA has dedicated 32 years to is absolutely vital and ensures that all Pennsylvanians have the opportunity to become self-sufficient. I speak for all residents of the Seventh Congressional District of Pennsylvania in thanking Carol Goertzel, President and CEO, and the remarkable staff of Pathways PA for their unyielding and compassionate dedication to helping working families in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Anthony Di Stefano, the 2010 recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Vision Care Section of the American Public Health Association. Dr. Di Stefano has dedicated his life to educating others, as is evident by his impressive academic resume and his professorship at Salus University in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. Dr. Di Stefano recognized a need for vision care in rural and urban areas and addressed it by serving on the Helen Keller Worldwide Medical Advisory Board. Helen Keller once said, ``Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.'' Dr. Di Stefano heeds Ms. Keller's advice and spends countless hours working for children not only in the United States, but all across the world though his participation in the development of international optometric educational programs. Now, because of Dr. Di Stefano, countless children have access to the vision care denied to them for so long. Madam Speaker, I ask that we recognize and show our strong appreciation for Dr. Di Stefano and Salus University and his remarkable leadership and commitment to public health.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the 100th Anniversary of the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division--Ship System Engineering Station, NSWCCD-SSES, at the Philadelphia Naval Business Center. Since 1910, when Secretary of the Navy Beekman Winthrop authorized the first funding be directed to what is now the Ship Systems Engineering Station, SSES, that organization has served our community, Navy and nation with great distinction. Today, SSES executes a budget of over $380 million and employs 1,600 engineers, scientists, technicians and support personnel. That workforce reflects the hard working, industrious nature of dedicated patriotic Americans throughout the Delaware Valley. The results of their labor are a stronger nation and safer world. With the singular purpose of sending USN Bluejackets to sea with the best possible equipment, this proud organization, under the leadership of Rear Admiral Jim Shannon, Captain Alexander Desroches and Patricia Woody maintains a covenant between our citizens and Sailors. It guarantees that our Navy will always be better designed, built and maintained than any other in the world. In conflicts for a century, our Navy has sailed into harms way with a quantitative advantage in readiness that is the result of those talented, dedicated professionals of SSES Philadelphia and their 54,000 colleagues of the Naval Sea Systems Command, NAVSEA, located in 34 cities across the United States and Asia. Together they help fulfill the vision of General George Washington, who wrote to Marquis De Lafayette nearly two hundred thirty years ago, ``It follows that as certain as the night succeeds the day that without a decisive naval force we can do nothing definitive, and with it everything honorable and glorious.'' As NAVSEA and NSWCCD-SSES work today to support our naval forces in two conflicts, it is my honor to join all the good citizens of the 7th Congressional District of Pennsylvania and Americans throughout this great nation in recognizing their 100 years of excellence in naval engineering and wish them another century of continued success in every endeavor.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, today, it is my honor to recognize Edwin and Alma Lakin for their outstanding work to support Holocaust and genocide education initiatives, locally and nationally, through the Pennsylvania Holocaust Education Council. This remarkable couple's consistent advocacy for a Holocaust Library and Resource Center at Albright College, as well as their fundraising efforts on behalf of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Lakin Early Education Center, the Jewish Federation of Reading, and innumerous humanitarian projects worldwide, reflects their commitment to remembering mankind's darkest hour. If we do not, we may allow these unspeakable horrors to be repeated. In the words of Nobel Peace Prize Winner Elie Wiesel, ``Mankind must remember that peace is not God's gift to his creatures; peace is our gift to each other.'' The Lakins' perseverance in honoring the victims of the Holocaust and their exemplary efforts to bring out the best in us all is essential to achieving that peace. I join good people everywhere in commending Edwin and Alma's vigilance against hatred and tyranny. We should all be so strong.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, on September 24th, 2010, in Reading, Pennsylvania, a ceremony marked the 22nd anniversary of that proud community's Vietnam Memorial. It is my personal honor to join the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Reading, PA Chapter in celebrating that event. The author Myra MacPherson wrote that ``above all, Vietnam was a war that asked everything of a few and nothing of most in America.'' When called, many young Americans went abroad to fight for our Nation--just as their fathers did before them. Sadly, the sacrifices they made in Southeast Asia were not reciprocated by our government or the American public. They returned to a nation wracked by recession and without the medical care, counseling, educational opportunities or public support they deserved. That outrageous neglect persisted for over thirty years as a grossly underfunded Department of Veterans Affairs was unable to meet their needs. As a result, courageous men and women suffered alone for years with the debilitating illnesses associated with exposure to Agent Orange and other physical and emotional maladies unique to that war. The fight to right those wrongs was led by the VVA, and as the senior most veteran ever elected to the House of Representatives, it has been my solemn duty in Congress to see that our Vietnam veterans receive the recognition and resources that belatedly fulfill our obligation to them and their families for their service to a now grateful Nation. The 110th and 111th Congresses have worked very hard in that regard but more needs to be done. Madam Speaker, I ask that this chamber pause to acknowledge the patriotism, courage, and fraternity of the VVA and salute every veteran of the Vietnam War. With our nation again at war, let us continue our work to finally, fully support veterans of all conflicts. And let us pledge to never again abandon a generation of brave American warriors.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, on September 26th, 2010, in Springfield, Pennsylvania a ceremony marked the 50th anniversary of the Don Guanella Village. It is my personal honor to join the good people of Pennsylvania's 7th Congressional District in celebrating that event. The Blessed Luigi Guanella, founder of the Servants of Charity, said ``it is not human beings who erect charitable institutions and feed the poor. Providence does all.'' That sense of faith and humility has always been the hallmark of one of the most capable and caring organizations in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and our Nation. My first hand knowledge of the good works performed at Don Guanella Village dates from my days as a student at Cardinal O'Hara High School over forty years ago. Then and now the staff at Don Guanella Village have been personal heroes to me and thousands of others throughout the Greater Delaware Valley. Every day of the year those remarkable men and women offer around the clock care to some of our society's most vulnerable souls. In so doing, they offer the residents and their families peace of mind they would not otherwise find. A nation is not measured by how it cares for those blessed with health, wealth, and position. It is measured by how it cares for those challenged by a variety circumstances beyond their control. I ask that every member of this chamber pause and thank Superior General Alfonso Crippa and everyone who contributes to the vital work of Don Guanella Village. It is their countless acts of charity and goodness that help make ours a great nation under God.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, today, a ceremony will take place in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to honor one of our Nation's truly remarkable women, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of Special Olympics and an American of unmatched energy, compassion, and vision. Through her work to create Special Olympics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver offered untold numbers of Americans with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to participate in sports and social activities that helped transform their lives and ours. As anyone who has ever coached, ``buddied,'' or watched Special Olympians in competition can attest, all involved come away from that experience with a new found respect and admiration for the spirit of those athletes, their families, and Eunice Kennedy Shriver. In the East Wing Rotunda of Pennsylvania's Capitol Building in Harrisburg, a portrait of Eunice Kennedy Shriver will be unveiled in a permanent place of honor to acknowledge her wonderful work and, to mark the 40th Anniversary of Special Olympics Pennsylvania (SOPA). Fittingly, the portrait will include the likeness of a Special Olympian, Loretta Claiborne. In memory of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the fourth Saturday of every September will forever be known as Eunice Kennedy Shriver Day. On that day we should all dedicate ourselves to love, justice, faith, hope, and courage--as she did--to the benefit of more than four million Special Olympic athletes, Best Buddies and millions more of their family members. Madam Speaker, I ask that all Americans pause to reflect on the civic and spiritual greatness of Eunice Kennedy Shriver and acknowledge the outstanding work Special Olympics of Pennsylvania, under the leadership of Mr. Matthew Aaron. He, his staff, and thousands of wonderful volunteers carry on Pennsylvania's proud tradition of caring for some of our most special citizens in a manner that reflects the very best of Eunice Kennedy Shriver.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the Main Line Chamber of Commerce and Devereux Foundation's selection of Irene Horstmann Hannan as recipient of the ``2010 Helena Devereux Women in Leadership Award.'' Helena Devereux once wrote ``The Devereux aim must always be to innovate and build programs so forward-looking that they will never reach completion--but which will perpetually pioneer in developing improved insights and solutions.'' Just as that philosophy shaped one of the world's great schools, so too Ms. Horstmann Hannan's financial acumen has helped build countless small businesses and non-profits through her current position as Senior Vice President of Citizens Bank. Also, as a board member of both Temple's Fox School of Business' Center for Entrepreneurship and the Women's Investment Network, she supports the education of our next generation of women entrepreneurs. Finally, her service on the board of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania provides over 41,000 young women and girls of our region an outstanding example of everything that is right in our country. As a father of a young daughter, I am an enthusiastic admirer of her work. Her remarkable range of influence on young girls, graduate students, and successful business women is impressive in every sense. Few can claim to be as important a mentor and counselor across three generations of women. Irene Horstmann Hannan embodies the inspirational spirit, passion, and determination of Helena Devereux. She has worked tirelessly to make our community more caring, prosperous and enlightened. I join all the good people of the 7th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, in saluting this extraordinary leader and deserving recipient of the ``2010 Helena Devereux Women in Leadership Award.''

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the tradition of dedicated care upheld by Taylor Hospital of the Crozer-Keystone Health System and located in Ridley, Pennsylvania. This year, Taylor Hospital celebrates a significant milestone of 100 years of service to the residents of the 7th Congressional District of Pennsylvania. On February 10, 1910, Horace Furness Taylor, M.D. and his wife, Katherine Manly Taylor, R.N., opened their Ridley Park home as a 10-bed hospital for local residents. On May 21st, the couple received a charter for their newly founded, medical institution ``for medical and surgical treatment of the sick and injured . . .'' Over the past 100 years, Taylor Hospital has continued to offer personal care to each patient, while remaining at the forefront of medical advancement. Its intimate size and the unwavering spirit of devotion embodied by the doctors, nurses, and hospital staff allow Taylor the unique ability to give each patient a highly individualized experience. Taylor employees develop relationships of trust with patients and have created a true partnership with local communities. Residents of this region do not have to travel beyond their own neighborhood to receive the finest healthcare. Directed at its founding by Dr. Horace Furness Taylor, and now by current president, Diane Miller, Taylor Hospital remains committed to excellence. Today, Taylor continues to improve and expand upon its medical practice, and currently offers a variety of inpatient and outpatient services some of which include cardiovascular care, medical imaging, and orthopedic care. This institution has various specialty services including a Joint Commission Certified Primary Stroke Center, and the oldest nationally accredited sleep center in the Greater Delaware Valley of Pennsylvania. Additionally, 30 years ago, Taylor opened one of the region's first inpatient Rehabilitation Units. Taylor Hospital proves to be a leader in medical services in this region of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I ask that we recognize and show our strong appreciation for a truly historic and trusted institution of outstanding and comprehensive medical care to the communities of the 7th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, Taylor Hospital.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, since assuming office in January 2007, I have had the privilege of working with the Blue Star Mothers of Greater Philadelphia. That group has been in the forefront of countless efforts to support our troops engaged in two protracted conflicts. Though the ``all volunteer force'' has provided our nation with the most capable and powerful military in our history, it has also shifted the burden of waging those conflicts to a decreasing percentage of our overall population. As a result, the vast majority of Americans benefit from the security wrought by the sacrifice of relatively few families. In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we are blessed by the work of Marian Moran of Media, PA who leads the Philadelphia Chapter, Laurie Menges of Hanover who leads the South Central Pennsylvania Chapter, Laura Zazworsky of Camp Hill, President of the Central Pennsylvania Chapter, and Sue Donaldson of Easton PA, President of the Lehigh Valley Chapter. For our families with serving members of the military, it has always been the case that the greatest emotional toll of sending our sons and daughters to war is borne by our nation's mothers. Since 1943, the Blue Star Mothers of America (BSMA) have stepped forward to offer support, counsel and advocacy on behalf of their children and one another. In addition to the thousands of phone calls, letters, and emails of support that flow daily between BSMA members, they are actively engaged in policy making at the highest level. Their support for H.R. 2647, ``National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010'', which directs states to provide both electronic and mail absentee ballots in a timely fashion, is helping to right a long-standing wrong in the provision of absentee ballots for serving members of our military. For years, our men and women in uniform have been denied their vote by inefficient and often indifferent bureaucracies at the local, state, and federal levels. The BSMA is also a tireless morale builder for our troops, providing 'care packages' from home, that not only nourish them but offer essential items to mitigate the extremely harsh climates in Iraq and Afghanistan. Most noteworthy is how Blue Star Mothers rally to the side of their sister Gold Star Mothers. When a Blue Star turns to Gold our entire nation mourns. But for the Blue Star Mothers that tragedy is their call to arms. An old Spanish proverb holds that ``An ounce of mother is worth a pound of clergy.'' Certainly it is a fellow mother who is best qualified to offer comfort when a child has been lost in service to our nation. For over sixty seven years, the Blue Star Mothers have been there for their children, one another, their Gold Star sisters, and our nation. As the Blue Star Mothers of America gather in Grand Junction, Colorado for their National Convention under the leadership of President Wendy Hoffman, I request that all Americans acknowledge the maternal love, patriotism, and courage that distinguish that remarkable organization. Our entire nation has reason to be grateful for their service.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, on the occasion of his retirement from the School of Law at Widener University, it gives me great pleasure to acknowledge the achievements and contributions of the talented and altruistic public servant, author, professor, warrior, and history buff Professor Thomas J. Reed, J.D. A 2nd Lieutenant of the U.S. Marine Corps awarded the Air Medal for his efforts in the Dominican Republic in 1965, and loved father of Heather and wife of Emily, Tom certainly deserves our praise. Throughout Professor Reed's career, he has shown the greatest respect for public service. He has served in our nation's military, worked as a Reporter to the Delaware Supreme Court for the Delaware Appellate Handbook and the Supreme Court for revisions to the Delaware Uniform Rules of Evidence, worked for and served as the President of the Civil War Round Table of Wilmington, Delaware, and was instrumental in the establishment of the Widener University Veterans Law Clinic, which specializes in representing those Veterans without the means to mount a challenge to unfair decisions rendered by the VA. In addition to his noteworthy service to many venerable organizations of our nation, Professor Thomas Reed has spent 29 years of his life educating generations of prospective lawyers at the Widener University School of Law in effective and innovative ways. His play, entitled Delaware: A State Divided is an excellent learning device for school- age children, and he has recently filmed a short piece to introduce law students to the intricacies and challenges associated with trials. Professor Reed has worked extensively with my office to defend the rights of our heroes who fight for our freedom day in and day out. His innovative ideas on merging Department of Defense and Veterans Administration records to permit the seamless flow of information between those two organizations could dramatically improve the delivery of cost-effective medical care to Veterans. Professor Reed also was recently recognized by the Taischoff Advocacy, Technology, and Public Service Institute as the first Taischoff Professor of Law upon the organization's creation in 2008. As our nation struggles on so many fronts--suffering the most severe economic woes in decades and fighting multiple wars abroad--it is important to remember the successes achieved by our constituents in our communities every single day. I am truly honored to offer this recognition to Professor Thomas J. Reed, and I wish him well in his retirement.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise before you to honor Director Richard S. Citron on his retirement from the post of Director of the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Mr. Richard S. Citron was appointed Director of the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center in August 2007. The Philadelphia VAMC is a tertiary care facility for the eastern half of VA Healthcare--VISN 4, providing care to 60,000 Veterans in America's sixth largest metropolitan area including the city of Philadelphia and surrounding six counties in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. He has led more than 2,000 dedicated staff working at the main campus in West Philadelphia and community-based outpatient clinics in Fort Dix, NJ, Gloucester County, NJ, Camden, NJ, Center City Philadelphia, and Horsham, PA (the Victor J. Saracini Community Based Outpatient Clinic). Philadelphia VAMC operates 140 inpatient beds and a 135-bed nursing home known as the Philadelphia Veterans Community Living Center. Mr. Citron has 38 years of VA healthcare experience, beginning in 1971 at Long Beach, CA. He has since served at medical centers in Newington, Loma Linda, Richmond, Brockton/West Roxbury, and VA Central Office. Mr. Citron served as Assistant Director of the VA Medical Center (University Drive) in Pittsburgh, as Acting Director of medical centers in Murfreesboro and Cleveland, and Director of the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center in Chicago. Prior to arriving in Philadelphia, Mr. Citron was Director of the Wilmington, DE, VA Medical Center. Mr. Citron served in the US Army from 1968 to 1971, including one year at a MASH hospital in Chu Lai, Vietnam. He holds a bachelor's degree in Economics from the College of William and Mary and a master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California. He is also a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE). Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring Director Citron for his commitment to ensuring the well-being of our nation's Veterans.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I would like to honor Captain Stanley DeGeus on his retirement from the United States Navy, which he has faithfully served for over three decades. Captain Stanley Vincent DeGeus is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and a 1979 graduate of Villanova University. At Villanova, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and was commissioned an Ensign through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Program. Following commissioning, Captain DeGeus completed Division Officer tours as Administrative Officer, Second Division Officer, and Combat Information Center/Missile Officer in USS SEATTLE (AOE 3) from November 1979 to May 1983. His first shore assignment was Commissioning Crew and Navigation/Naval Operations Instructor at the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Program at Boston University. While at Boston University, he received his Master's Degree in Biology in January 1986. Captain DeGeus' subsequent afloat duty included assignment as Executive Officer in USS IMPLICIT (MSO 455) from October 1986 to November 1987 and as Executive Officer in USS ENHANCE (MSO 437) during mine countermeasure operations in the Persian Gulf. He then served as Operations Officer in USS CROMMELIN (FFG 37) from June 1988 to December 1989. Captain DeGeus served as Commissioning Commanding Officer in USS CHAMPION (MCM 4) from May 1990 to September 1992. Following a year of study at the Naval War College, where he received a Master's Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies, he completed a three-year tour of duty as an instructor in the Command Training Department at Surface Warfare Officers School Command in Newport, Rhode Island. From May 1997 to November 1998, Captain DeGeus served as Commanding Officer in USS BONHOMME RICHARD (LHD 6) from September 2001 to February 2003. USS BONHOMME RICHARD deployed for both Operation Enduring Freedom (67 combat sorties) and Operation Iraqi Freedom during his tenure in support of the Global War on Terrorism. Following a tour of duty as a Strategy and Alignment Branch Head in OPNAV 76 and as Sea Shield Pillar Lead in OPNAV 70, Captain DeGeus reported as Commander, Surface Warfare Development Group in May 2005. Captain DeGeus' medals and decorations include two Legion of Merit awards, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, three Meritorious Service Medals, two Navy Commendation Medals, and four Navy Achievement awards. Most impressive is that he was able to lead a highly successful career in the Navy all while raising his three remarkable children-- Juliane Catherine, Case James, and Cory--with his wife, Barbara Jean Mellon of Freehold, New Jersey.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. And I will always remember what the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said when asked about these debates here: Our men and women in the military are wise enough to know, this is your sacred duty here in the Halls of Congress, to have a debate about the use of their lives. When I led them into war, I would hope my lawmakers would have that debate if we were being used wisely. So I thank you for bringing forward this debate, although I oppose the resolution.

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I was stationed at the Pentagon when 9/11 happened. A few months later, I was on the ground in Afghanistan as head of the Navy's anti-terrorism unit for a short mission. I watched as the Taliban and al Qaeda flowed across that border over to Pakistan. And then came that tragic misadventure in Iraq. We took that edifice of security of our Special Forces and others and placed them in that country. And what we might have done to truly have better won this global war of terror with the other elements of power, such as fix the illiteracy rate of women in Afghanistan, which is 98 percent, never occurred. I support the President's policies not because of Afghanistan--it has spiraled too far downward to try to resurrect what we once might have done--but because of Pakistan, the most dangerous place in the world. It should have sent chills down everybody's back when General Hayden, 3 years ago, said al Qaeda now has a safe haven in Pakistan where we cannot go, several hundred of those criminals there to plan safely against us. I support the President's policy because, as General Gates said in a closed hearing in December, we need to seal that border. So as Pakistan, once united now again with us, moves to North Waziristan through the Taliban on its side of the border to eradicate the danger to us, the safe haven of al Qaeda, that they do not flow back over into Afghanistan whence Pakistan, who created the Taliban, might once again spread its bets. If Pakistan becomes a failed state and al Qaeda remains, we may get out the nuclear weapons. But there are 2,000 nuclear-trained scientists in that nation who have access to the radiological material and the knowledge in a failed state potentially controlled by the Taliban and al Qaeda that endangers us. I support this President's policy in a limited window of opportunity to help Pakistan eradicate, yes, the danger to them, but to us, that al Qaeda. I strongly do believe that this President still needs to provide this Nation something, however, and that is what he promised us a year ago, and that was an exit strategy. Every warrior knows that when you go into battle, you have an exit strategy, which is merely benchmarks by which you measure success or failure. And if success succeeds, exit, and if the costs of failure become greater than success, exit to an alternative strategy. I believe that needs to be provided to this Nation who, after 7 or 8 years of war, deserves to see how its national treasure is being used and if it is being successful. But as I end, to my colleague from Ohio, I served for 31 years with the wonderful men and women of this Nation.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I would like to honor a man who has dedicated his life to courageous and exemplary service to our Nation, Captain Daniel P. Mack of the United States Navy. Through his 27-year career, Captain Mack consistently demonstrated his dedication, diligence, and commitment to our great Nation. The son of John Francis Mack, a World War II veteran, and Helen Marie Conboy Mack, he was born February 18, 1960. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1982. After being commissioned, Captain Mack attended Nuclear Power School and Naval Submarine School and reported aboard the USS John Adams. After completing six deterrent patrols over a period of three years, he joined the staff of the Naval Academy, serving as 24th Company Officer and Executive Assistant to the Commandant of Midshipmen. In 1990, he reported to the USS Puffer, which completed Pacific and Arctic patrols during his time aboard, and he was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation. In 1995, Captain Mack graduated with the highest distinction from the College of Command and Staff at the Naval War College. After earning his Master's Degree in International Relations and National Security Affairs, he was assigned to Executive Officer duty aboard the USS Phoenix. He completed Phoenix's final deployment, during which she earned the 1996 Fleet Silver Anchor Award and a Meritorious Unit Commendation. Captain Mack then returned to the Naval Submarine School, where he served as Prospective Executive Officer instructor. In January 2000, Captain Mack assumed command of USS Houston. Under his guidance, the boat earned the CINCPACFLT Retention Award, for outstanding personnel development and the highest retention rate in the Pacific. After completing his tour as Commanding Officer, Captain Mack served as Deputy Commander of Submarine Squadron 11. He then served on the Joint Staff in the Strategic Plans and Policy Division. Captain Mack also served as Nuclear Policy Division Chief and as the Nuclear Weapons Council advisor to the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He also reported to the Navy Staff where he held several vital positions. In 2007, Captain Mack assumed command of Submarine Squadrons Sixteen and Twenty where he oversaw the development and training of sixteen separate submarine crews. Even by the military's high standards, Captain Mack's record of achievement stands out. His personal awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, awarded for ``superior meritorious service in a position of significant responsibility'', the Legion of Merit, awarded for ``exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services,'' as well as multiple awards of the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. While the Navy is losing one of its finest officers after his retirement this month, Captain Mack's legacy will continue to benefit the United States Navy for years to come. Whether as a Company Officer at the Naval Academy, Prospective Executive Officer instructor at Naval Submarine School, or as Commander of Submarine Squadrons Sixteen and Twenty, Captain Mack's career has deeply and positively affected the lives of countless Shipmates--improving their futures as Sailors and citizens. I salute his committed service to our Nation. Moreover, I wish him and his three magnificent children Maggie, Daniel and Timothy great happiness as they embark on this new chapter in their lives. I am certain that Captain Mack will remain successful and productive in every future endeavor.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, the great Marian Anderson once said, ``Leadership should be born out of the understanding of the needs of those who would be affected by it.'' In recognition of her investiture as the first woman President of the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity, I would like to honor an extraordinary individual who personifies the ``understanding leader'' Ms. Anderson described, Bishop Dr. Audrey F. Bronson. At the age of 14, this remarkable woman was called to begin her vocation as a preacher. In 1975, she was inspired to establish the Sanctuary Church of the Open Door serving the community of West Philadelphia. In September 1978, the successful Sanctuary Christian Academy was founded to produce students skilled in reading, writing, mathematics, language arts and computer science. Other ministries at the church include Sanctuary Bible Institute; Sanctuary Family Resource Center and Referral Service; Sanctuary Christian Day Camp; Dunlap Apartment Complex; and Sanctuary Outreach Ministries. Bishop Bronson's spirituality, extraordinary intellect and selfless nature reflect the nurturing of her loving and learned parents and brother. Her father, Dr. Uriah Perry Bronson, was a minister and pastor of churches and principal of several schools in Florida. Her mother and step-mother were both teachers and church workers. Her brother, Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, a United Methodist minister, was pastor of several churches and President of the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. He recently retired as President, Bethune-Cookman College, Daytona Beach, Florida and currently serves as President, Edward Waters College, Jacksonville, Florida. Dr. Bronson received her bachelor of science degree in elementary education from Cheyney University; she also holds a master's degree in psychology from Howard University where she also became a candidate for a Ph.D. in psychology. She earned a doctor of ministry degree from New York Theological Seminary. She holds two honorary degrees from Bethune- Cookman College and a doctor of humane letters from the National Theological Seminary and College. Upon completion of her studies, Dr. Bronson returned to Cheyney in 1967 where she taught for 17 years as an associate professor of psychology. Since retiring from that position to devote her full energies to her growing church, she continues to be a valued member of the Cheyney family. Her many other appointments include: Dean of the Philadelphia Urban Education Institute, a subsidiary of the African American Interdenominational Ministries, Inc. (AAIM, Inc.) of Philadelphia in association with the major seminaries of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Member of the Board of One Church, One Child, Inc., of Pennsylvania, a statewide organization that encourages members of African-American Churches to adopt African-American children. She was a member of the Mayor of Philadelphia's Transition Team and currently serves on the board of the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation and the Executive Committee of the Association of Theological Schools. Dr. Bronson's faith has led her to minister in prisons; serve as a block captain; work to rid the community of drugs and violence; feed the hungry; and keep her church doors open seven days a week. She is a tireless agent of change ideally qualified to lead the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity to new heights as it strives to ``help the downtrodden'' and those ``pushed aside.'' In many ways, Dr. Bronson has been fulfilling this calling all her life. Early in the HIV/AIDS crisis, when some churches were turning away those afflicted with the disease, Dr. Bronson called on her fellow clergy members to accept those stricken by this terrible disease and to offer education and testing in their communities, a mission she plans on continuing in her new post. Madam Speaker, I ask that this House acknowledge Bishop Dr. Audrey F. Bronson, as a testament to Marian Wright Edelman's observation that: ``education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.'' Bishop Bronson's life of preaching, learning and teaching has made her a pillar of strength, wisdom, and civic spirit. She has empowered countless African-American families to live fuller, more purposeful lives through their faith in God and one another. With her new responsibilities at the helm of one of the premier spiritual collectives in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, her ability to guide, counsel and inspire across an entire metropolitan region is very welcome news. Particularly during these very difficult times, she is the perfect ``watchman on the wall.''

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I would like to honor Bishop Dr. Audrey F. Bronson in recognition of her investiture as President of the Zion Baptist Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on January 24, 2010. Dr. Bronson is an ordained minister and consecrated bishop. She began preaching at the early age of fourteen and after many years of serving as an evangelist, she established the Sanctuary Church of the Open Door in 1975. Under her leadership, Sanctuary Church grew rapidly. She also founded the Sanctuary Christian Academy in 1978, a private academic school from pre-school to fifth grade; the Sanctuary Bible Institute and the Sanctuary Counseling and Referral Center. Because of the demands of a growing church, Dr. Bronson retired from Cheyney University in 1984 as Associate Professor of Psychology after seventeen years of teaching. She served as Dean of the Philadelphia Urban Education Institute, a subsidiary of the African American Interdenominational Ministries, Inc. (AAIM, Inc.) of Philadelphia in association with the major seminaries of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dr. Bronson serves as secretary on the board of One Church, One Child, Inc. of Pennsylvania, a statewide organization organized to encourage members of African American Churches to adopt African American children. She also served on the Mayor's Transition Team. Dr. Bronson is deeply touched by human suffering and her church doors are open seven days a week to minister to people in need of both spiritual and physical help. Dr. Bronson has served as block captain; ministered in prisons; worked to rid the area of drugs surrounding her church and helped to feed homeless people. She has a tremendous desire to bring about changes in the lives of her fellowman and faith in his ability to help himself. Dr. Bronson will continue her good works as President of the Zion Baptist Church. The Zion Baptist Church began as a missionary prayer meeting in 1882 led by Reverend Horace B. Wayland in the home of Mr. & Mrs. Lewis Simms. Over the years, Zion membership grew to an extraordinary 6,000 congregants. In 1955, Zion moved to its current location at Broad & Venango Streets, where it was transformed into an urban Christian center. To this end, the Church initiated the following programs: a day care center, credit union, community center programs, employment agency, retirement home, adult education courses, reading classes and family counseling. The Zion Baptist Church and its leadership have consistently placed an emphasis on community development and Christian youth leadership. Community, social, and theological initiatives organized by the Church include the Zion Center for Corresponding Biblical Studies, weekly Bible Study, Transportation Ministry, Puppet and Clown Ministry, spiritual retreats, leadership workshops, Zion Outreach Support Ministry and the Human Services Center. Dr. Bronson's selection as President of the Zion Baptist Church is the well earned result of many years of dedicated service to the church and the Philadelphia community at large. On behalf of the Seventh Congressional District, I wish Dr. Bronson continued success in this new endeavor.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I would like to honor today the memory of a great American hero, Captain Luther H. Smith, Jr., U.S. Army Air Forces, who will be buried with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery on Friday, 15 January. Captain Smith was one of the original Tuskegee Airmen, a highly decorated World War II prisoner of war, a recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal, the first African- American aerospace engineer hired by General Electric in its Missile and Space Operations in Philadelphia, a loving husband and father, and a longtime resident of Villanova, PA. Captain Smith was born in Des Moines, Iowa on September 27, 1920. His early dreams to serve as a military aviator were fulfilled when he joined the U.S. Army Air Forces and began training at Alabama's Tuskegee Army Air Field and Tuskegee Institute. One of the first African Americans to become a licensed pilot, Captain Smith began his military career in 1943. He flew 133 combat missions with the 332nd Fighter Group as a combat fighter pilot over Europe. He was severely wounded on his last mission on Friday, 13 October 1944, and spent the next seven months in enemy hospitals and prison camps before being liberated in May 1945 by the Allied forces. During his distinguished military career, Captain Smith destroyed 2 German aircraft in aerial conflicts and 10 aircraft in ground strafing attacks. Captain Smith was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Purple Heart, the Prisoner of War Medal, and 8 European Theater Campaign Ribbons. After retiring from the U.S. Army Air Forces, Captain Smith completed his engineering education at the University of Iowa, earning a B.S. in mechanical engineering. He was hired by General Electric where he was involved in projects for the Air Force, the Navy Submarine Command, and NASA. His work included missile and jet engine design and he published numerous papers and was awarded two patents. Following his retirement from GE in 1988, Captain Smith was active in support of local civic causes, serving as the vice-chairman of the Radnor Township (PA) School Board and on the Board of the Delaware County (PA) Community College. He also was instrumental in capturing the history of the Tuskegee Airmen--so that present and future generations of Americans could understand their significance. He believed passionately that ``racial equality in America started in the skies over Europe.'' He and two other Tuskegee Airmen were featured in the 2006 Documentary ``On Freedom's Wings: Bound for Glory, the Legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen'' which was sponsored by the Pennsylvania Veterans Museum in Media, PA. He also designed the plaque dedicated in memory of the Tuskegee Airmen in Arlington National Cemetery. In May 1995, he was selected by President Bill Clinton to represent the U.S. Air Force for the 50th Anniversary Celebration of VE Day, and he accompanied President Clinton and Vice-President Gore to Europe. Captain Smith was a member of a unique group of men who possessed an unabashed devotion to this nation and a belief in the strength of American values, even at a time when their country's laws failed to reflect the values for which they fought. On Friday, at 9:05 AM, the First Fighter Wing from Langley Air Force Base will offer the ultimate recognition of Captain Smith's service to this nation. Like Captain Smith, throughout its storied history, the U.S. Air Force First Fighter Wing has been a trailblazer--leading the way in bringing new fighters operational. Four F-15 fighter jets will flyover the internment services for Captain Smith. In the words of Captain Smith's son Gordon--``I would like to think that my Dad will be beaming with joy and appreciation.'' To Captain Smith's widow, Lois G. Smith, his son Gordon and daughter Deborah, I offer this tribute. As this nation prepares to honor the memory of Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, it is fitting that we also honor the memory of Captain Luther H. Smith, Jr.--like Dr. King, a great American hero who fought to realize America's commitment to freedom for all.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, December 16, 2009 marks the 65th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. On this day 65 years ago, German forces launched the Ardennes Offensive against American and Allied Forces in Belgium, Luxemburg, and Germany. The Battle of the Bulge, which lasted 40 days, represents one of the greatest displays of valor, honor, and perseverance in American military history. It also marked the beginning of the end of World War II. One week into this historic battle, commanding officer General Anthony McAuliffe was approached by Colonel Harper with a note from Germany's command asking for an ``honorable surrender'' by American forces. When General McAuliffe was read the note, he laughed and exclaimed, ``Us surrender? Aw, nuts!'' He then realized that a reply was in order, and began to ask his staff what he should say. Lieutenant General Harry Kinnard spoke up, saying ``That first remark of yours would be hard to beat.'' ``What do you mean?'' asked McAuliffe. ``Sir, you said `Nuts'.'' replied the Lieutenant General. And that was the answer that McAuliffe gave back to the Germans; Nuts. Surrender was never an option for our boys. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned at the onset of the battle, the Allied Forces refused to yield. Even when they were forced to retreat to Bastogne in the face of an overwhelming German force, the objective remained the same: stop Hitler's army, whatever it takes. According to the Department of Defense, American forces suffered almost 90,000 casualties during the battle, including 19,000 killed, 47,500 wounded and 23,000 missing. It is our duty to honor those lost in battle, and to acknowledge the sacrifice they made--the ultimate sacrifice--in defense of our freedom and security. These men were not expecting combat. In fact, the area they were defending had been considered a ``quiet sector''. As the German Forces advanced, neither they nor their officers were aware of the impending attack. Hitler's army confronted them with half a million troops, 1,800 tanks, and thousands of guns, yet our men prevailed. In this way, the Battle of the Bulge serves as both a legacy and a precedent. Its legacy is that of the largest land battle in our Army's history and the turning point of World War II. Its precedent is the model it provides, even today, for our men and women in combat. During my 31 years of service in the Navy, I witnessed acts of extraordinary bravery and resolve among the men and women under my command. As a Vice Admiral, I was honored to serve with the finest sailors that our country has to offer and witness these men and women perform their duties with the same purpose and spirit that led the Allied Forces to victory 65 years ago. This past August, I was honored with the opportunity to welcome the 83rd Infantry Division of World War II to my District. Many of these men served in the Battle of the Bulge, and it was with tremendous gratitude and respect that I addressed them, shared my own experiences as a Veteran, and fielded questions. As the son of a Navy Captain who served in the War, I have an understanding of the sacrifices these men made to serve their country, including the years they spent away from home and family. I cannot begin to express how grateful I am to these men and the deep appreciation for all they have done to defend the democratic principles of this nation. It is with humility and a strong sense of obligation that I ask us to recognize the Allied Forces' victory at the Battle of the Bulge in late January, 1945 and the men who made that victory possible.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House to quickly pass the Extended COBRA Continuation Protection Act to ensure health coverage for millions of Americans who, through no fault of their own, have lost their jobs and now, because Wall Street gambled with their savings, cannot afford the COBRA premiums to keep their health care from their former employer. So, in the economic stimulus bill we provided 65 percent of the cost of those premiums, but those benefits are now running out for those who were laid off first. I ask this House to quickly pass the bill to extend those COBRA premium subsidies for 6 months. Take a woman in my district. She pays $535 for her 35 percent share of the premiums. It will go over $1,500 very soon if we do not act. And she has a preexisting condition and must keep on her health care plan. Hundreds have contacted my office regarding this, and I ask this House to quickly help. As we come out of this savage recession, it's not just economic security, but it's health security we must address.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and mourn the loss of a great American. Rear Admiral David M. Stone, United States Navy (Retired) recently passed away, and as a result, we are a lesser Nation. He was a proud son of Illinois, not the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, my State, but I am compelled to see that the achievements of this remarkable man are forever captured in the record of our proceedings because Dave Stone was my shipmate. We graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1974 and served together as fellow Surface Warfare Officers at sea and ashore for nearly three decades. In the course of those years, I witnessed Dave Stone consistently offer our Nation all of his enormous talent and energy. At the Academy, he led Navy's basketball team with an unmatched passion and competitive spirit. Upon commissioning as an ensign, he went to sea with the work ethic, sense of responsibility, and selflessness that characterized the very best of the graduates of Annapolis, his reputation across the fleet reflecting an unfailing dedication to leading sailors from the front, by example, and with a total commitment to their personal and professional excellence. He never forgot the importance of a sailor's family, and he put in countless hours tending to the concerns of the parents, wives, and children who sacrifice so much in offering their loved ones to the naval service. Tactically, his fighting spirit and natural sense of competition drove him to constantly press his systems, operators, and decisionmakers to outthink and outfight every adversary. When our fleet was challenged by serious maintenance concerns, he rolled up his sleeves and took charge of the most complex engineering plant the Navy had devised. He set a standard for engineering readiness that astounded only those who did not know him. As a result, his rise through the ranks was deservedly fast. Every ship and sailor he served reached new standards of excellence. He commanded the USS John Hancock (DD 981), Destroyer Squadron 50, NATO's Standing Naval Force Mediterranean, and the USS Nimitz Aircraft Carrier Battle Group with skill, courage, and extraordinary professionalism. He was the officer our Nation needed in the Persian Gulf as that theater became increasingly dangerous. He was the surface warrior best qualified to support actions in the Adriatic that helped close hostilities in Kosovo quickly and favorably. On his promotion to admiral, he was an officer with precisely the strategic vision, intellect, and sense of the world our Navy and Nation needed to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Following retirement from the naval service, his patriotism and sense of responsibility continued unabated. As the first Federal Security Director at Los Angeles International Airport, and later as head of the Transportation Security Administration, he helped secure our national transportation infrastructure so quickly and so completely that his work stands out as one of our government's greatest and most impressive post-9/11 achievements. However, Dave always considered his greatest achievement the fortune to fall in love with and marry his wonderful bride, Cynthia Faith Voth of Clearwater, Florida. Together, Dave and Faith represented all that was right and good about life in the naval service. They were partners and best friends through the joy and pain of countless deployments, household moves, and the pressures of ever increasing responsibilities for the safety of our Nation's greatest treasure--the young men and women who wear the uniform of our military. Madam Speaker, I ask that we pause to reflect upon the many contributions Admiral Dave Stone made to our country and the world and to thank Faith Stone for inspiring her husband to serve us all so proudly. Through the pain and frustration of losing this great shipmate, everyone who knew, loved, and respected Dave is comforted by the fact that today, there are countless Midshipmen at Annapolis who will follow his example and seek to model their life on his legacy. Therein lies the greatness of the United States Navy and our Nation and our shipmate and classmate, Dave Stone.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Mr. Speaker, I'm rising today in strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 212. Twenty years ago this week, the brutal crackdown occurred on the student-led demonstration in Prague. The students were commemorating the 50th anniversary of the execution of Czech student leaders and closure of universities by the Nazis, it turned out, would be silenced no longer by the repressive Soviet-backed regime. A mere 8 days after the fall of the Berlin Wall, they set events in motion which would culminate in the dissolution of the politburo and which would lead to the peaceful establishment of independent Czech and Slovak states in 1993. As a son of a Slovakian immigrant, these bonds that join us together are so strong. I can remember in the midst of my 30-year naval career going over to see Czechoslovakia in the mid 1980s. Lots of top secret clearances and special access programs I had, and I had to get special permission to go there, but I wanted to see my father's hometown. I went through Prague. What a city. So beautiful that the movie ``Amadeus'' about the great composer Mozart was filmed there because it was kept so whole in its beauty as Vienna had been. And then to Bratislava and the small village outside where my father grew up. I spoke English, not Slovak, so we conversed. And I had a wonderful dinner and evening and breakfast the next day. And to this day, I'm still not sure they were my relatives. But what a great homecoming I felt I had in that land. I think that's because the backbone of revolutions, both of theirs and ours, was against the greatest empires of the time. A mere spontaneous gathering in the case of Slovakia, like ours, but theirs was of workers, students, and common citizens, not unlike ours, able to shrug off decades of Soviet oppression. When enough people realize their God-given right to liberty is within reach, they just can't be stopped. Victor Hugo, that great chronicler of revolution, said it best: ``Nothing can resist an idea whose time has come.'' I can remember the evening in Bratislava walking to the border and overlooking the barbed wires into Austria, and the man I walked there with said, ``Some day.'' If there is anything to be called a march of history, it must be this struggle between power and justice, between violence and the endurance of human dignity, the steady triumph of those who meet brute force with the power of a self-evident ideal. Justice, the prerequisite to equality. Americans of Slovakian descent, such as football player Chuck Bednarik; Tom Ridge, former Governor of my home State of Pennsylvania; Andy Warhol; Stefan Banic, inventor of the parachute; the inventor of the radio, Jozef Murgas; Paul Newman; Michael Strank, the one who raised the American flag on Iwo Jima, have contributed greatly through their wonderful thread in this great national security fabric of the United States of America to our future. I'm proud to honor them today for the revolution so similar to ours.

Mr. SESTAK

Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, a little shy of 3 years ago, I came to this Congress to pay back a debt. After three decades in the U.S. military, my young 4-year-old was struck with the same brain tumor Senator Ed Kennedy had. Because of the wonderful health care plan that this Congress provides our families in the military, she was given a chance. I was taken in the U.S. military by how and why we do that. It's not because we're generous. It's because we reap great dividends for this Nation. This Congress sent me off for 11\1/2\ months to a war, and while I was gone, my daughter and my wife were taken care of and my mind was on the mission. In the military, we reap the benefit of healthy, focused warriors. I am taken with this bill. It gives us healthy, productive workers. It actually combines, in my mind, the best of America's character-- rugged individualism allied with the common enterprise of this Nation. It gives us the quality of life that in the military reaps such great dividends. This bill, to me, is no different, and it's time.