Elise Stefanik

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from New York for yielding. Mr. Speaker, 25 years ago, every American of a certain age can remember exactly where they were on 9/11, when the deadliest terrorist attack on U.S. soil in history happened, killing 2,977 of our fellow Americans. Fueled by hate, darkness, and evil, Islamic terrorists hijacked and weaponized commercial airplanes, turning them into suicidal missiles. The terrorists aimed at the heart of American exceptionalism. Two planes hit the World Trade Center, a symbol of world-leading capitalism and limitless economic opportunity; one hit the Pentagon, our Nation's headquarters of military might and patriotic service; and one was likely headed for this very Capitol, aiming for the people's House, symbolizing we the people of our constitutional Republic. In fact, this historic Capitol might not even be here today were it not for the brave 40, the heroes who took back control of the hijacked plane that was brought down in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, arguably the first Americans to fight what would become the global war on terror. What the terrorists did not realize that day and the days after is that they would never bring the American people to our knees. On 9/11, you saw unbelievable acts of heroism from law enforcement, first responders, and everyday Americans who ran into the fire to save their fellow countrymen and -women. Many sacrificed their lives in the course of duty. You saw flags on every block and building, and tremendous acts of community service with neighbor helping neighbor simply because they were fellow Americans. Our country was more unified on September 12 than any day in modern history. In the quarter century since that fateful day, we must always honor and remember those whose lives were cut short when they were killed by terrorists, and we must also remember and honor the thousands of 9/11 workers who cleaned up the rubble to rebuild and subsequently suffered and died because of 9/11 health-related illnesses. We honor the veterans and military families who served countless tours in the global war on terror, and we thank our dedicated intelligence officials around the world working to keep us safe every day. One hundred million Americans have been born since 9/11. They do not have a lived memory of that crystal blue sky the morning of the day that the world changed. It is up to our generation to teach them about September 11, to ensure we never forget, and to ensure it never happens again. We must teach them that out of the ashes on our darkest day, fellow Americans will always rise and meet the moment to protect, defend, and honor our country. Mr. Speaker, next week, as we commemorate 9/11 in ceremonies big and small all across our great Nation, may God bless the innocent souls killed on that day, the first responders, 9/11 workers, and the veterans who served. May God continue to bless and keep safe the United States of America.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Lake Champlain Research Institute in the Center for Earth and Environmental Science at SUNY Plattsburgh on the dedication of its new research vessel, the R/V Leptodora. The Leptodora replaces LCRI's longtime research vessel, the Gruendling, which has served researchers on Lake Champlain for more than three decades. This state-of-the-art vessel will expand the Institute's ability to conduct cutting-edge research, support student training, and advance our understanding of Lake Champlain. Under the leadership of Dr. Timothy Mihuc, the Institute has built a reputation for scientific excellence through investments in modern laboratory equipment, advanced field instruments, and innovative monitoring technologies that provide critical data on the health of Lake Champlain. The Leptodora was made possible through a strong partnership with the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, which provided $750,000 toward construction of the custom-built vessel, along with additional support for a multi-year deep-lake ecology research initiative. The new vessel will play a central role in that project, enabling scientists and students to collect data more efficiently and safely while expanding research opportunities on the lake. The Commission's continued investment reflects its longstanding commitment to scientific research, fisheries management, and environmental stewardship throughout the region. Named after Leptodora kindtii, a transparent zooplankton species found in Lake Champlain and an important component of the lake's food web, the vessel symbolizes the Institute's mission to better understand and protect the complex ecosystems that sustain the lake. Through research conducted aboard the Leptodora, SUNY Plattsburgh students will gain invaluable hands-on experience while contributing to the scientific knowledge needed to preserve Lake Champlain for future generations. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I extend my sincere gratitude to the Lake Champlain Research Institute, the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, Dr. Mihuc and his team, and all of the partners whose dedication and support have made this important achievement possible. Their work strengthens the North Country, advances freshwater science, and helps ensure the long-term health and preservation of Lake Champlain.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 200th anniversary of the founding of Lowville Village Band. Originally known as the Union Band upon its formation in 1826 the founding members began a tradition of playing music in the local park. The band changed names several times it is first 100 years reflecting the instruments they played, the Union Band reformed as the Lowville Saxhorn Band in 1856. During this time the band would perform all over Northern New York and even into Canada. These performances were part of parades, festivals, and private parties as well as sometimes on steamboats. During the Civil War their performances dwindled as other duties called members away but following the war they reformed as the Lowville Cornet Band before a local philanthropist, Francis K. Leonard donated silver instruments to the band along with other generous donations leading them to rebrand as the Leonard Silver Cornet Band. Four years later they chose to rename themselves the Lowville Cornet & Orchestra Band. Over the years the band has been led by extremely talented musicians, including Franklin A. Thompson, who had previously played with the United States Marine Corps Band and Buffalo Bill Wild West Show Band; Luther Askin, who helped found the New York State School Music Association and Lowville Academy Band, and Perl Johnson, who served in World War I as a member of the American Expeditionary Force and led field music for the 310th Infantry Regiment. In the 1930s the band officially became the Lowville Village Band, the name it has held ever since. Today, the band's ensemble consists of approximately 50 brass, woodwind, and percussion musicians who range in age from 14 to 80. The band hosts a very popular summer concert series where they play marches and patriotic music from the past at the Lowville Veterans Memorial Park. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I recognize the Lowville Village Band for 200 years of bringing music to the Village of Lowville and communities across our region.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor United States Army veteran Howard ``Sam'' Waite. Sam was born on July 2, 1926, in Pontiac, Michigan, and his military service spans three wartime periods and includes some of the most significant contlicts of the twentieth century. Raised in Poultney, Vermont, Sam was drafted in 1944 at the age of 18. He served as a rifleman assigned to Battery C, 658th Field Artillery Battalion, in the European Theater of Operations. Sam was in Germany on Victory in Europe Day, witnessing the surrender of Nazi Germany and the end of World War II in Europe. For his service, Sam earned the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon. After the war, Sam reenlisted as an automotive repairman and served through the Korean War, ascending through the non-commissioned officer ranks and earning the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Stars. Following Korea, Sam was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, before transferring to the Panama Canal Zone, where he provided military assistance and economic aid by training local troops to operate U.S.- provided vehicles. During this assignment, Sam also traveled throughout South America, including visits to Bolivia, Chile, and Uruguay. Sam later served during the Vietnam War, earning the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device. Returning to the United States, he spent two years as an Assistant Professor of Automotive Engineering at the United States Military Academy at West Point before being deployed to Iran during the turmoil of the 1960s. On June 7, 1966, Sam achieved the senior rank in the Army Non-Commissioned Officer Corps, often referred to as the backbone of the Army. In 1968, Sam retired as a highly decorated Sergeant Major after more than 24 years of military service. Following his retirement from the Army, Sam returned home to Granville, New York where he continued serving his community. He operated a Texaco gas station and repair shop for 16 years before spending the next four decades working in automotive air-conditioning repair. Sam ultimately retired at the age of 88. On July 2, 2026, Sam will celebrate his 100th birthday. His century of life has been defined by service, sacrifice, hard work, and devotion to both his country and his community. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to recognize Howard ``Sam'' Waite and thank him for his extraordinary service to the United States.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor United States Air Force veteran Bruce E. Abare. Bruce E. Abare was born on May 16, 1951, in Glens Falls, New York, to his parents, Edward and Anna Abare. He graduated in 1970 from South Glens Falls High School and was raised in the close-knit communities of the greater Glens Falls and Moreau area that he would continue to serve throughout his life. Bruce entered the United States Air Force on February 24, 1971. He trained as an Airplane Maintenance Specialist and was assigned to the 307th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (SAC), and later the 438th Military Airlift Wing (MAW). His service took him to Vietnam, and he was also stationed at U-Tapao Air Base in Thailand, where he reenlisted for his second tour of duty. Bruce was honorably discharged on March 29, 1978, at the rank of Sergeant. For his dedicated service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. Following his military service, Bruce was married to his wife, Sandra, for 32 years. Together they raised five children. Bruce was a longtime member of the Fortsville Methodist Church and worked for the Town of Moreau in their Department of Public Works until his retirement. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and going camping. After serving our country, Bruce returned home to serve his community through his work with the Town of Moreau. His life reflected quiet dedication, service, and commitment to family and others. On behalf of New York, I am honored to recognize Vietnam-era Air Force Veteran Sergeant Bruce E. Abare.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and honor the Hopkinton-Ft. Jackson Fire Department on the 75th anniversary of its founding and thank them for their tremendous dedication to protecting and serving the Town of Hopkinton as well as the neighboring communities in St. Lawrence County. Since its founding in 1950, the Hopkinton-Ft. Jackson Fire Department has been at the forefront of combating disasters across the North Country. In addition to fighting fires, the Department protects Hopkinton and its surrounding communities by responding to medical emergencies, motor vehicle accidents, rescue calls, and natural disasters. These brave men and women have gone above and beyond to ensure the safety and stability of not only their community, but the North Country as a whole. For seventy-five years, they have faced challenges with unwavering resolve and compassion embodying the true spirit of civic virtue. Since their inception, the Hopkinton-Ft. Jackson Fire Department has grown tremendously to help answer the call in their community. Starting with the station's purchase for one dollar from the old Hopkinton School in 1950 and their first F-700 Ford Firetruck in 1957, they have expanded massively gaining their own St Lawrence County Central Dispatch system in 1987 and extending medical assistance to Tri-Town Rescue Squad starting 1995. The Department's growth has continued to its current size, boasting seven vehicles with capable fire engines, tankers, and specialized emergency response vehicles which are ready to answer the call at a moment's notice. These expansions have dramatically increased the Department's role and have allowed them to go above and beyond to serve their community. The Hopkinton-Ft. Jackson Fire Department has faithfully served the community, and their achievements stand as a testament to their hard work and dedication. Their presence is both an asset and a comfort to the citizens they serve in their time of need. They are fully staffed by volunteers who meet the demands of the job and perform them to the highest level, going above and beyond the call of duty in exemplary fashion making themselves available at any time for any situation. This year, Hopkinton-Ft. Jackson Fire Department will celebrate its 75th anniversary. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, it is an honor to recognize the generations of brave men and women who have volunteered with the Department and those currently answering the call. These extraordinary individuals have sacrificed their time and wellbeing to protect the North Country, and I am proud to recognize their historic accomplishments and service.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I missed votes on May 13, 2026, due to a family health issue. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 158; YEA on Roll Call No. 159; YEA on Roll Call No. 160; YEA on Roll Call No. 161; YEA on Roll Call No. 162; NAY on Roll Call No. 163; YEA on Roll Call No. 164; YEA on Roll Call No. 165; YEA on Roll Call No. 166; and YEA on Roll Call No. 167.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I missed votes on May 12, 2026, due to a family health issue. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 156, and YEA on Roll Call No. 157.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I missed the two suspension votes today due to travel delays returning to Washington, DC. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 109 and YEA on Roll Call No. 110.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I missed votes today due to being sick. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 71, YEA on Roll Call No. 72, YEA on Roll Call No. 73, and YEA on Roll Call No. 74.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor United States Army Veteran Earl Seelow. Earl Seelow was born on October 20, 1932, in Edinburg, New York, to his parents, Edwin and Flora Seelow. He was raised in the same close- knit community that he would continue to serve throughout his life. Earl entered the United States Army on November 13, 1952. He trained as an Infantryman and was deployed to Korea as a replacement soldier. He was assigned to Company E, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, where he served for the duration of the Korean War. During his service, Earl fought in two of the most intense engagements of the conflict in the fierce Third Korean Winter campaign, including the Battles of Pork Chop Hill and Old Baldy. Earl was honorably discharged on November 12, 1954, at the rank of Technical Sergeant. For his courageous service, he was awarded the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, two Overseas Bars, the United Nations Service Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Emblem. Following his military service, Earl married the love of his life, Valerie, on April 21, 1956. They shared 67 years of marriage and raised four sons together. Earl built a long and steady career at the International Paper Company in Corinth, where he worked for nearly 37 years before retiring in 1994. During that time, he served as a UPIU Union Officer for 22 years. After serving our country, Earl returned home to serve his community. He served with the Edinburg Fire Department as the Assistant Fire Chief, managed the Community Bowling Center, served as Corinth Town Assessor for five years, worked as a crossing guard for the Corinth School, and later worked alongside his son Jim at the Olde Saratoga Brewing Company for 12 years. Earl dedicated more than 52 years to Corinth Little League as a coach, umpire, and Executive Board member. He was a member of Free and Accepted Masons Lodge 22, Shriners Valley of Albany, Oriental Temple of Troy, American Legion Post 533, and the New York State Assessors' Association. His life reflected steady leadership, service, and commitment to others. On behalf of New York, I am honored to recognize Korean War Army Veteran Technical Sergeant Earl Seelow.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I missed the suspension votes today due to travel delays getting back to Washington, DC. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 57 and YEA on Roll Call No. 58.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Bost for yielding me the time. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of my legislation, the Ernest Peltz Accrued Veterans Benefits Act, H.R. 3123. I also thank Ranking Member Takano for his comments and support. I have represented the Peltz family for well over a decade, and that included Ernest Peltz, a World War II veteran and American hero, who died a few years ago between Christmas and New Year's Day. At that time, I heard from his son, Charles Peltz, who found himself caught in a maze of bureaucratic VA red tape. Instead of being able to focus on honoring the life and service of his father, the Peltz family was forced to contend with a system that failed the very veteran it was designed to serve. Hero Ernest Peltz did everything right. He served admirably and honorably in our military. He continued a lifetime of public service. He applied for his accrued veterans pension benefit, and the Department of Veterans Affairs approved it while he was still alive. I even got a call from his family as Ernest Peltz was on his death bed, that he was asking to make sure the VA benefits would be there. I encouraged them and said that absolutely we would do everything to make that possible. Yet, due to a processing error, the VA did not deposit the funds until after Mr. Peltz' passing. In an even more troubling turn, the VA then clawed those funds back from the Peltz family even though Ernest Peltz was alive at the time that this benefit was approved and fully earned. As a result, the Peltz family was left to shoulder the financial burden of his father's care on their own, compounding grief with stress, uncertainty, and frustration. In short, the Peltz family was penalized for the VA's mistakes. This is unacceptable. This is why I have been working for over 2 years to pass the Ernest Peltz Accrued Veterans Benefits Act. We have worked closely with the Peltz family, veterans service organizations, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, including the lead Democrat sponsor, Congressman Ro Khanna, to craft this legislation to correct this moral wrong. This bill eliminates the burden on a veteran's surviving family by ensuring that the veteran is entitled to receive their pre-approved pension benefits within the month that death occurs. I represent New York's 21st Congressional District, representing the largest number of veterans in any district in New York State. That is why I am proud to take action to make sure no family mourning the loss of a loved one who is a veteran has to deal with VA red tape and these bureaucratic mistakes. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation honors the legacy of World War II Veteran Ernest Peltz and takes a critical step toward improving the VA's effectiveness and accountability. What was amazing about this process, while mourning the loss of their father, Charles Peltz shared with me his priority was making sure that this never happened to another family again. That is why we are working to pass this bill today. I thank Charles Peltz for his work with my office and with me directly. I am grateful for the bipartisan support, and I urge a ``yes'' to pass it on the floor.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call No. 43, I mistakenly voted No when I intended to vote Yes.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I was absent for the first three votes today, due to delays in returning to Washington. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 39, YEA on Roll Call No. 40, and AYE on Roll Call No. 41.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I was absent for votes today. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 34, AYE on Roll Call No. 35, NAY on Roll Call No. 36, YEA on Roll Call No. 37, and YEA on Roll Call No. 38.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, Representative Crank, for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2916, my bill to ratify the land claim settlement agreement between the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, New York State, Franklin and St. Lawrence Counties, the towns of Fort Covington and Bombay, and the New York Power Authority. For more than 40 years, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne have worked diligently to resolve the Akwesasne land claim in northern New York in my district. The last decade has seen very focused efforts between the Tribe, local, and county officials, and our congressional office to realize this long-sought agreement dating back to the 1796 Treaty with the Seven Nations of Canada. This historic settlement provides long-term certainty and remedies in terms of lands, land acquisition, payment of past property taxes, and will greatly benefit our North Country community. For the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, today's action represents the resolution of a generations-long fight, and finalizing this settlement allows the Tribe to restore portions of their homeland, strengthen self-governance, and expand economic opportunities for the North Country. Unfortunately, I was dismayed to watch the agreement sit on the Governor's desk for over 6 months while she refused to review the documents and then pushed last-minute changes, leaving members of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, who worked alongside my office on this legislation, in limbo and long awaiting the culmination of over 40 years of their leadership's hard work. Our office worked swiftly and diligently to pass this out of committee, and I am proud to have gotten this across the finish line in the House. I look forward to getting this legislation passed in the Senate and on to the President's desk for his signing. Mr. Speaker, this moment is the culmination of the dedicated work by many past and present Mohawk leadership, elders, and community members from Akwesasne, as well as county and local officials, and I am honored to pass this bill in Congress.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen for her decades of service, leadership, and commitment to justice in her home community. A Malta native, DA Karen Heggen has served in the Saratoga County District Attorney's Office since 1993, beginning her career as an Assistant District Attorney and advancing through the ranks to the office's second-highest position before being elected District Attorney in 2014. Over more than thirty years, she has dedicated herself to protecting the people of Saratoga County with professionalism, compassion, and integrity. As the first woman ever elected District Attorney in Saratoga County, Karen made history while setting a standard of excellence that inspired those who followed. Her tenure as DA was marked by both achievement and resilience during a time of significant change in New York's criminal justice system. Under her leadership, the office maintained one of the state's strongest records for case integrity and public trust despite the challenges of bail reform, discovery reform, and parole reform. Her steady hand ensured that Saratoga County avoided the disruptions that plagued many other jurisdictions. Throughout her career, Karen focused not on politics or recognition, but on people. She emphasized teamwork, collaboration, and justice rooted in fairness. Her approach reflected her belief that a district attorney's role is not merely to prosecute, but to pursue what is right--to balance the interests of victims, public safety, and the accused. Her leadership earned deep respect from law enforcement, attorneys, and community members alike. Karen leaves behind a legacy of fairness, compassion, and leadership that will continue to shape the Saratoga County District Attorney's Office for years to come. Karen now looks forward to spending more time with her family, who have supported her through long nights and demanding years. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to recognize District Attorney Karen Heggen for her trailblazing career, her lifelong service to the people of Saratoga County, and the example she has set for future generations of public servants.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Honorable James A. Murphy, III, for his distinguished and lasting service to Saratoga County and the State of New York. Judge Murphy served for ten years as Saratoga County Court Judge and as an Acting Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, where he presided over serious felony jury trials and complex civil litigation. Before his election to the bench, he devoted twenty-five years to prosecutorial work, serving as Saratoga County District Attorney from 1997 to 2014 after being re-elected in 2001, 2005, 2009, and 2013. As District Attorney, Judge Murphy led with innovation and compassion, establishing drug treatment courts, alternatives-to- incarceration programs, and New York State's first Domestic Violence Integrated Court. He was a vocal advocate for reform of the Rockefeller drug laws and worked closely with the State Legislature to modernize New York's criminal justice system. His leadership extended beyond the county, as Governors Pataki, Spitzer, and Cuomo appointed him to statewide boards including the Commission for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and the Forensic Science Commission. He is also a graduate of the FBI Citizens Academy and earned a Certificate in Leadership from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. Judge Murphy and his wife, Laurie, reside in Saratoga Springs and are the proud parents of two daughters. Outside of his legal career, he continues to serve his community in other ways, including as a certified U.S. Rowing referee. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to recognize Judge James A. Murphy, III, for his decades of public service, principled leadership, and unwavering dedication to justice. His career stands as an example of integrity and commitment that has strengthened both the legal system and the community he has served so faithfully.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Saratoga County Sheriff Michael Zurlo, a lifelong resident of Saratoga County who has dedicated his career to keeping our communities safe, strong, and connected. Elected Sheriff on November 5, 2013, Sheriff Zurlo brought decades of hands-on experience to the office, having served as a deputy, sergeant, lieutenant, and senior criminal investigator within the Saratoga County Sheriffs Office. A graduate of Mechanicville High School and former Town of Stillwater Judge, Sheriff Zurlo embodies a deep understanding of both law enforcement and public service. Over more than thirty years, he has worked tirelessly to protect the people of Saratoga County, leading with fairness, integrity, and respect for the men and women who serve beside him. His leadership has advanced several initiatives that have had a lasting impact on the county's safety and quality of life. He placed school resource officers in districts across the county to ensure students and staff have trusted and visible protection. He expanded street patrols to strengthen community policing and enhance public safety. He modernized the county's emergency communications system to improve coordination among first responders. He also built partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to better combat crime and support shared missions. Sheriff Zurlo has also demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation and compassion. He implemented stricter penalties for those charged with driving while intoxicated, launched the ``Blue Envelope'' program to assist drivers on the autism spectrum during traffic stops, and oversaw the opening of the county's $20 million Paul E. Lent Public Safety Facility. Under his leadership, the Sheriffs Office introduced programs in the county jail designed to support veteran inmates and individuals struggling with addiction, offering accountability, rehabilitation, and a path forward. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to recognize Sheriff Michael Zurlo for his dedicated service, steady leadership, and lifelong commitment to the people of Saratoga County. His work has strengthened the foundation of public safety and community trust that continues to define our region today.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th anniversary of Valley Health Services (VHS) and Valley Residential Services (VRS), two cornerstone institutions that have provided exceptional long-term care to seniors and their families in the Mohawk Valley for half a century. What began as a 32-bed facility in the former Herkimer Memorial Hospital building has grown into a comprehensive center for elder care and rehabilitation. From the start, VHS was guided by a simple but powerful mission: to care for the mind, body, and spirit of every individual who walks through its doors. That mission has endured--and expanded--for fifty years. In the 1980's, renovation projects increased the facility's capacity to 160 beds, laying the foundation for new services that continue to define VHS today. These include adult day healthcare, outpatient rehabilitation, subacute care, and skilled nursing. Each program reflects a commitment to person-centered care and a deep respect for the dignity and independence of every resident. The staff, families, and volunteers who fill its halls have created a home-like environment where residents experience comfort, privacy, and connection. Families are not just visitors but partners in care, joining in activities and celebrations that make life at VHS meaningful and full. In 2015, Valley Residential Services opened its doors as a natural extension of that mission. The modern senior living facility began with 46 apartments across more than 220 acres of scenic land. Designed with comfort and independence in mind, each apartment features a living room, kitchenette, private bedroom, and bath. Common spaces include an activity room with a cafe, social gathering areas, and an on-site beauty salon. VRS expanded again in 2018, adding a new wing with 14 double- occupancy apartments and a fitness center for active residents. This growth reflects not only success, but the community's trust in the care, compassion, and excellence that define both VHS and VRS. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to recognize Valley Health Services and Valley Residential Services for fifty years of service, care, and commitment to our seniors. Their legacy of compassion will continue to shape the community for generations to come.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the incredible life and service of United States Army Veteran, Andrew G. Stine. Andrew was born on June 22, 1923, in Saratoga Springs, New York, and graduated from White Plains High School in 1941. He briefly attended New York University before entering the United States Army on March 4, 1943, at the height of World War II. Andrew was assigned as a Demolition Tech with the 1884th Engineer Aviation Battalion, with whom he served in the Ryukyus campaign, a pivotal campaign in the Pacific Theater, which included the Battle of Okinawa. Andrew and his unit handled the construction and repair of airfields in remote and hostile areas throughout the Western Pacific. After being honorably discharged at the end of World War II, Andrew opted to re-enlist with the Army Corps of Engineers on February 21, 1947, and served as a surveyor with the 817th Engineer Aviation Battalion for another three years. On February 20, 1950, Andrew was honorably discharged, and in recognition of his dedicated service to the United States, he was presented with the Good Conduct Medal with Clasp, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two Service Stars, the American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. After his military service, Andrew went on to receive his bachelor's degree from Skidmore College and worked as a land surveyor for over fifty years, including ten years working for the National Park Service, and another eight years with the Vermont Highway and Human Services Department. Andrew and his wife, Ethel, were married for fifty years and raised three children together: Patricia, Marion, and James. They were also heavily involved with Boy Scout Troop No. 13 in Schuylerville, New York, and were proud to see their son and grandson both attain the rank of Eagle Scout. On July 4, 2019, Andrew passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service to his country and his community. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to recognize World War II Veteran Andrew G. Stine.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and posthumous return of United States Army Veteran Harland J. Hennessey. Harland J. Hennessey was born on September 1, 1918. He attended Boonville High School where he was president of his eighth-grade class, played soccer, and appeared in school musicals and plays. Hennessey left Boonville on May 27, 1941 to join the United States Army. He trained at Fort Jay on Governors Island and later at Fort Belvoir in Virginia. By December 1941 he was stationed at Fort Stotsenburg in the Philippines. In 1942, he was serving with the 803rd Engineer Battalion when Japanese forces invaded the Philippine Islands. Heavy fighting led to the surrender of the Bataan Peninsula on April 9, 1942, and Corregidor Island on May 6, 1942. Hennessey was captured when U.S. forces in Bataan surrendered. He and other POWs were forced to march 65 miles in the Bataan Death March and were later held at the Cabanatuan POW Camp No. 1. Hennessey died on November 1, 1942, at the age of 24. He was one of the first servicemen from the Boonville area to die in World War II. He was buried with other deceased prisoners in Common Grave 704 at the camp cemetery. After the war, the American Graves Registration Service (AGRS) exhumed those buried at the Cabanatuan cemetery and moved the remains to a temporary U.S. military mausoleum near Manila. In 1947, AGRS examined the remains, identifying two sets from Common Grave 704 and declaring the other eight unidentifiable. These were buried as Unknowns at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial (MACM). In 2018, as part of the Cabanatuan Project, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency exhumed the remains from Common Grave 704 for laboratory analysis. Using dental and anthropological evidence, circumstantial data, and mitochondrial DNA testing, scientists identified Hennessey's remains. Though interred as an Unknown for more than 70 years, his grave was cared for by the American Battle Monuments Commission. He is honored on the Cabanatuan Memorial, built by survivors of the Bataan Death March and the Cabanatuan POW camp, and on the Walls of the Missing at MACM where a rosette will now mark that he has been accounted for. VFW Post 5538 in Boonville bears Hennessey's name in honor of his incredible service to our country. After 84 years, his remains are set to return to his hometown where he will be buried in Boonville Cemetery. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to recognize the incredible service and heroism of World War II Veteran Harland J. Hennessey and welcome him home.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marie and David Troy of Greenwich, New York for their admirable patriotism. Marie Troy is a lifelong New Yorker and resident of Washington County. For four years now, she and her husband David Troy have dedicated time and effort to bringing patriotic pride back to their community on Memorial Day. Together the Troys line their town's main streets with American flags made here in the USA by the Saratoga Flag Company. To pay for all 78 flags and the necessary hardware the Troys raised money through neighbors and local businesses. To install the flags, the Troys partnered with Veteran Mike Savage, the Middle Falls Fire Department, and local leaders so that the flags are all up by Memorial Day. Marie and David Troy are an example to New Yorkers and to Americans. I truly respect and admire them for their enthusiasm and patriotism. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to thank Marie and David Troy for being model citizens of our community.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor United States Air Force and Air National Guard Veteran Peter Tautznik. Peter Tautznik, born on December 4, 1947, has dedicated his life to serving both his country and his community. Peter served in the U.S. Air Force as a Vehicle Maintenance Superintendent, and later with the Air National Guard. He achieved the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, reflecting not only his technical expertise but also his strong leadership abilities and commitment to his country. During his military career, Peter earned an impressive number of commendations. His honors include three Air Force Commendation Medals, two Air Force Achievement Medals, seven Air Force Longevity Service Awards, two National Defense Service Medals, and two Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards. He was also awarded two Humane Service to New York State Medals and four Long and Faithful Service Awards, recognizing his ongoing commitment to excellence and selfless service. Beyond his military service, Peter has been a dedicated and active member of his community. For more than 35 years, he owned and operated PJ's Truck Repair, providing reliable service to his neighbors. He has also served as a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) Instructor and as a Fulton County Sheriff's Licensing Course Instructor. Today, Peter continues his service by maintaining the Lake Valley Ambulance Corp. vehicles, ensuring the readiness of critical emergency services in Fulton County. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to recognize Senior Master Sergeant Peter Tautznik for his service, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to both our Nation and our local community.