Abigail Spanberger

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to thank the Honorable Mary Katherine Greenlaw for her dedication to public service on behalf of the people of Fredericksburg, Virginia. Mayor Greenlaw has always been a pillar of the Fredericksburg community, and through her leadership, has shepherded an extraordinary period of growth and prosperity for the city. Throughout her life, she has continued her family's legacy of service--Mayor Greenlaw served as a Trustee on the Mary Washington Hospital Board from 1978 to 1994, then as both Chair and Vice-Chair of the Fredericksburg Planning Commission. In 2008, she was elected to the Fredericksburg City Council, where she served until being elected as Mayor of the City of Fredericksburg in 2012. Throughout her tenure as Mayor, she has been an advocate for small businesses, the arts, and families across the city. Her work has focused on creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs, improving the infrastructure throughout the city to increase transportation options, and supporting projects that ensure the longevity of local schools. Mayor Greenlaw has delicately balanced her support for the city's growth while working to preserve the historical charm for which Fredericksburg is well-known. Mayor Greenlaw has earned several accolades throughout her tenure, including Volunteer of the Year by Pratt Mental Health Association, Woman of Distinction by the Girl Scout Commonwealth Council, and the Prince B. Woodard Leadership Award from the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce. She has also served with distinction as a representative of the city on the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance and as a founding member of the Fredericksburg Festival of the Arts. Mayor Greenlaw has been a wonderful partner to me as we have worked together on local and federal issues. On a personal note, I thank Mayor Mary Katherine Greenlaw for the example she has set for women in politics and the young girls and boys across the city who look up to and have learned from her leadership. She has been a true and steady leader for the City of Fredericksburg. Her devotion to public service and her dedication to the betterment of the city have left a legacy that will continue to inspire us all for years to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and thanking Mayor Mary Katherine Greenlaw and in wishing her the best as she retires to spend time with her sons, grandchildren, and great- grandchildren.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to thank Mrs. Betsy Jane Flenner for 16 years of dedicated service to our country. As a Lead Congressional Correspondent and Security Manager in the U.S. Navy Office of Legislative Affairs, Betsy has helped answer thousands of questions from the American people. In the office, she is known for her willingness to take on any question and find an answer, no matter how easy or how complex. Betsy is admired and respected by her colleagues--her work ethic and heart for service have made her an asset to her team and to the many Virginians who have benefitted from her help. She has built long- lasting relationships with staff in the halls of Congress, an example of her exceptional service and her willingness to go above and beyond her job description. Throughout the last eight Congresses, Betsy has been a standout team member. Her commitment to providing excellent service has earned her the Superior Civilian Service Award--one of the highest honorary awards under the Department of the Navy Civilian Awards program. Her enthusiasm for providing our Veterans and servicemembers with the answers they need will be missed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and thanking Mrs. Betsy Jane Flenner and in wishing her the best in her retirement.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Freedom High School of Woodbridge, Virginia, for winning its second straight Virginia Class 6 State football title. Last Saturday, Freedom defeated Highland Springs in a hard-fought championship game. The Eagles won by a score of 42-34 to claim the title, making them the first Prince William County high school to win back-to-back State titles since 1999. This win capped off an undefeated season for Freedom, and the Eagles extended their winning streak to an incredible 29 games. As the Representative for Virginia's Seventh District, I officially congratulate Freedom High School's players and coaches, including head coach Darryl Overton. I also congratulate the parents and faculty for supporting these players and student athletes and guiding them through a perfect season. Today, on the House floor of the United States House of Representatives, I proudly join my colleagues in recognizing the remarkable accomplishments of the Freedom High School Eagles of Woodbridge, Virginia.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Patricia O'Bannon, Tuckahoe District Supervisor and member of the Henrico County Board of Supervisors. Mrs. O'Bannon was first elected in 1995 to represent the Tuckahoe Magisterial District. With her election, she became the first woman to be elected to the Henrico Board of Supervisors, where she became a strong voice for the communities she serves. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, Mrs. O'Bannon has proven to be a source of knowledge for the Henrico community. Her expertise is informed by her service on the Richmond Regional Transportation Planning Organization, the Greater Richmond Partnership, and as the former Chair of the Capital Region Airport Commission. Throughout her tenure, she has focused on bettering Henrico County's infrastructure and improving Henrico schools. She has also been an advocate for revamping the sidewalk policy to increase public safety and accessibility to sidewalks for all in Henrico. Mrs. O'Bannon has been a dedicated public servant on behalf of her constituents for the last 27 years, working with colleagues across the aisle to find solutions for her community. She has been a steady leader--stepping in as Chairwoman for the fifth time in February 2017 after the passing of Brookland Representative Richard Glover. Her unwavering dedication to working on behalf of Tuckahoe and all of Henrico County has left a lasting impression for years to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating and thanking Mrs. Patricia O'Bannon for her outstanding service on behalf of Henrico County as Tuckahoe Supervisor, and in wishing her the best as she retires.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Frank J. Thornton, Fairfield Supervisor and Chairman of the Henrico County Board of Supervisors. Since his election to the Henrico County Board of Supervisors in 1995, Mr. Thornton has worked hard to build bridges and bring the Henrico community together. His historic election is a clear example of his perseverance and hard work. Throughout his career, Mr. Thornton has worked hard to empower all in Henrico. In the classroom, he provided guidance and instruction to students as a professor of French literature. As a community leader, he has been a driver for change--challenging the status quo time and again. His poise in leadership and fearless advocacy have been the hallmarks of his career. Mr. Thornton's passion for Henrico County and his dedication to the fight for equity and representation have left a permanent mark on the community. For many years, Mr. Thornton served as the only Democrat and Black member on the board. That is no longer the case today, thanks in part to Mr. Thornton's tenacity and ability to inspire change. He has become a role model for many and has set a great example for up-and-coming leaders. Throughout his 27-year tenure as Fairfield Supervisor, he has been elected as Chairman of the Henrico County Board of Supervisors multiple times. Through his work, he has embraced change and highlighted Henrico's diversity. He has also been a strong advocate for the development of community resources--such as the Frank J. Thornton YMCA Aquatic Center and the extension of the bus line to Short Pump. Through his work, he has helped Henrico become more connected, vibrant, and active. A patient and dedicated representative, Mr. Thornton has kept his promise of ``Making Henrico Better for the Future.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating and thanking Mr. Frank J. Thornton for his outstanding service on behalf of Henrico County as Fairfield Supervisor, and in wishing him the best as he retires.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to thank Sergeant Major Collin D. Barry for 24 years of dedicated service to our Nation. Sergeant Major Barry first answered the call to service in 1999 when he enlisted in Tucumcari, New Mexico. Twenty-four years later, he is retiring as the Marine Corps Installations National Capital Region- Marine Corps Base Quantico Command Senior Enlisted Leader. Sergeant Major Barry has a distinguished record of service, evident by the numerous service awards he has received, including a Purple Heart, the Navy and Marine Corps Meritorious Service Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Throughout his career, Sergeant Major Barry has selflessly served his country, deploying in support of multiple military operations including Operation Iraqi Freedom I, Operation Iraqi Freedom II, and Operation Inherent Resolve. He has served as an instructor and been a role model to students while assigned to the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps- University of New Mexico, and as a Basic Reconnaissance Course Platoon Sergeant, Chief Instructor, and Course Chief at the Reconnaissance Training Company, Advanced Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry-West. Sergeant Major Barry has also committed himself to learning and has been a dedicated student during his time of service. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy degree in Global Leadership and Organizational Management from the Indiana Institute of Technology, a Master of Business Administration degree from Texas A&M University, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Anderson School of Management at the University of New Mexico. His expertise and leadership led him to participate in two Commandant of the Marine Corps task forces at the Pentagon where he worked to improve culture, force preservation, and human performance optimization within the force. He has made academic and practitioner advancements in military leadership through published research and was recognized by the Marine Corps Association for communication distinction for his articles published in the Marine Corps Gazette. Sergeant Major Barry has gone above and beyond in the many roles he has fulfilled throughout his career as a mentor, teacher, student, and as a Marine. His legacy of service and leadership will continue through all the servicemembers who have had the honor of serving with him. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and thanking Sergeant Major Collin D. Barry for 24 years of service to our country, and in wishing him the best in his retirement.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Major David Charles Hoffman for 39 years of dedicated service to our country. Major Hoffman started his career with the U.S. Army after graduating from Cleveland Marshall College of Law in 1985, when he received his commission as a Judge Advocate in the U.S. Army. His Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal are a testament to his exceptional achievements and the magnitude of his contributions through his service. Major Hoffman's commitment to learning was instrumental in his success. In 1988, he graduated from the U.S. Army's Command and General Staff College. That same year, he graduated from the Army Logistics Management College, where he was named as a distinguished graduate of the Management of Defense Acquisitions Course. On October 2, 1998, Major Hoffman joined the U.S. Army Reserves, and on that same date, he joined the U.S. Department of Justice as an attorney with the Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch. While there, he continued to serve the people of Virginia. Since 2005, he has served as the Deputy General Counsel for Audit Policy and Contract Litigation in the Office of General Counsel for the Defense Contract Audit Agency at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. In recognition of his esteemed service on behalf of the American people, the Defense Contract Audit Agency bestowed Major Hoffman with the Civilian Meritorious Service Award. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and thanking Major David Charles Hoffman for 39 years of service to our country and in wishing him the best as he retires to spend time with his wife of 43 years, Cheryl, and their two children, Kristin and Jonathan.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible service of John Shinholser. Since 2004, John has served as the president and cofounder of The McShin Foundation, a substance use disorder recovery organization that provides lifesaving resources to Virginians who are struggling with substance use disorder. These services range from medical detox to sober living and from providing peer-to-peer mentorship to advocating for more support for reentry services in jails and prisons. John is a leader in this space, and from the day I first started in politics, he wanted to make sure that helping those with substance use disorder was a priority of mine. Last year, John marked 40 years in recovery himself. He achieved sobriety while he was serving in the United States Marine Corps in 1982, and he never looked back. For decades, he has used his own story to empower others, to help them and their families to sustain their recoveries. He has treated substance use disorder as the illness that it is. With his philosophy that substance use disorder is an illness, not a character flaw, he and his wife, Carol McDaid, have reached tens of thousands of Virginians. They have saved lives and saved families. He might be retiring from leading The McShin Foundation, but I know that he is far from retired when it comes to making a difference in our community. On behalf of a grateful Commonwealth and on behalf of every person whose life he has impacted, including mine, I stand before the United States House of Representatives in thanking John Shinholser for his lifelong mission of helping others and our Nation.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this amendment. Tonight, I am speaking on behalf of thousands of Virginians who rely every single day on the Metro. They take it to work. They take it to school. They take it to see their families. This cut would hurt their commutes. This cut would eliminate funding for urgent capital projects, meaning it would impact the safety and reliability of the system. This cut would be a slight to the Federal workers, including those who work right here on Capitol Hill and those who rely on the Metro to get to their jobs so that they can keep our government functioning, our country safe, and our economy running. Historically, support for Metro's capital funding has not been hyperpartisan, and we should not change course right now. That is why I am proud to stand with members of the Maryland and Virginia delegations and my colleagues from the District of Columbia in pushing back against this senseless proposal. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Mrs. Eileen Thrall on being named Dumfries, Virginia's 2023 Living Legend by Mayor Derrick Wood For years, Eileen has served as an exemplary member of the Dumfries community through her work as a reporter for Potomac News, where she authored the widely enjoyed Dumfries Community Column. Her column provided insight into the community and highlighted the wonderful facets of the town, sharing with her audience what makes Dumfries so remarkable. Aside from journalism, Eileen has also dedicated her time to advocating for Dumfries and its residents through her various community and public service positions. She selflessly selved on the Prince William County Board of Zoning Appeals for over two decades, working for the betterment of her community. Eileen serves on the Board of Directors for the Good Shepherd Housing Foundation working to provide housing options to those in need and has been an advocate for good environmental stewardship through her leadership of Friends of Quantico Bay and her involvement with the Friends of Quantico Creek. Eileen represents seniors within the town of Dumfries, serving as an executive committee member on the Prince William Commission on Aging where she advocates for issues related to aging and caregiving. And as an active member of the Dumfries United Methodist Church, Eileen has served in various capacities supporting the church and her community. Eileen's love and dedication for the Town of Dumfries is clear, and the work she does on behalf of her community serves as a pillar of inspiration across Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and thanking Mrs. Eileen Thrall, a Living Legend, for her contributions to the community and the Town of Dumfries.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Mrs. Lori Dobratz on more than 37 years of service to our country. Lori's career with the federal government began in February 1986 with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Washington, D.C., where she worked as the Secretary to the Division Chief in the medical unit. In May 1995, Lori joined Capital District Contracting Center, which later became the Fort Belvoir Mission and Installation Contracting Command. Throughout her 28 years there, Lori has played a critical role as a Management Support Assistant. As part of the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Lori supported efforts to ensure Army readiness at all times. Her hard work and contributions in service to the U.S. Army have not gone unnoticed--as evidenced by the four performance awards Lori has received over the last five years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Mrs. Lori Dobratz for her hard work, dedication, and service to our country, as well as in celebrating her career, accomplishments, and retirement.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the work of the Women Inspiring Women Leaders chapter of the American Business Women's Association (ABWA) in Fredericksburg, Virginia. ABWA's Women Inspiring Women Leaders Chapter held its first meeting on May 22, 2019. Since then, the organization has provided opportunities for local business leaders to network, empower one another, and focus on growing Virginia's economy. Entrepreneurship is a defining characteristic of the American spirit. That's why I am proud to join them and their sister chapters in celebrating American Business Women's Day. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Fredericksburg Women Inspiring Women Leaders Chapter for their commitment to service, innovation, and empowering women in the business community. It is an honor to celebrate American Business Women's Day alongside them.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend Ms. Teresa Alexander for her outstanding service as part of Stafford County Public Schools. For more than 15 years, Ms. Alexander has served as a Special Education/Autism teacher. In her role, she has nurtured a love for learning in her students and provided them with the tools they need to succeed. Her dedication to her students, their education, and their futures is admirable. Prior to joining Stafford County Public Schools, Ms. Alexander taught at Fredericksburg City Public Schools. She was nominated for ``Teacher of the Year'' all 8 years she taught there--and she won the award twice. Her expertise, commitment, and passion for teaching is inspiring. Her contributions as an educator help shape Virginia's future by both empowering students with knowledge and inspiring them to continue to learn. I am honored to recognize Ms. Alexander. Her hard work does not go unnoticed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Ms. Alexander for her unwavering commitment to education and her continued commitment to educating tomorrow's leaders.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend Mr. Anthony Edgecomb for his outstanding service as a part of the U.S. Army. Throughout his 10 years of service in the U.S. Army, Mr. Anthony Edgecomb upheld the important values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. His career included a Classified National Security mission that spanned over 4 years and earned him the Meritorious Service Medal. The Meritorious Service Medal is awarded to servicemembers for ``distinguished service and performance above that normally expected, over a sustained period.'' Typically awarded to senior officers and senior enlisted servicemembers, Mr. Anthony Edgecomb achieved this milestone as an Army Staff Sergeant in 2013. I am honored to extend my congratulations to Mr. Anthony Edgecomb. His hard work and sacrifice do not go unnoticed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating and thanking Mr. Anthony Edgecomb for his service to our country.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Little Union Baptist Church in Dumfries, Virginia on their 120th anniversary. For 120 years, Little Union Baptist Church has served as a space for the community to gather, connect, and worship. Little Union Baptist Church has deep roots in Dumfries, Virginia that can be traced back to Mary Bates--fondly referred to by many as ``Granny Mary.'' Mary was born into slavery, but she had the determination to learn to read and write. After the Emancipation Proclamation, Mary settled in the area with her husband where she proved to be a pillar in the community. She served as a midwife, wrote letters on behalf of those who could not, and helped administer medications. In 1901, Mary convinced her husband John to donate land to build a local church, so people would not have to travel to neighboring communities to attend services. The church built on that land flourished and eventually came to be known to the community as Little Union Baptist Church. Today, Pastor Michael L. Sessoms continues Little Union Baptist Church's longstanding tradition of building community. Under his guidance, the church continues to grow and provides families in the Dumfries area with a space to gather and celebrate. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the 120th anniversary of Little Union Baptist Church.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend the work of Ms. Rebecca Kinney, who has been an exemplary public servant over the last 37 years. Ms. Kinney has served as a printing specialist and program manager for the Publishing and Logistics Systems Management Section (ARDE) of Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps (HQMC). Throughout her career, she printed more than 1 million documents for the U.S. Marine Corps. Ms. Kinney has demonstrated hard work, dedication, and a commitment to serving her country. Her efforts have been a great benefit to her team, the U.S. Marine Corps, and our National security. As she prepares for her next steps, please join me in thanking her for more than 37 years of contributions to the HQMC ARDE. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Ms. Rebecca Kinney on a well-deserved retirement.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Stafford County NAACP in honor of 67 years of service to the community. Founded in 1956, the Stafford County NAACP has worked tirelessly ``to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate race-based discrimination,'' working to build a better future for everyone in Stafford County. As the first and longest-serving president of the Stafford County NAACP, Frank White, Sr. laid the groundwork for this branch's long-term commitment to service. His legacy continues through his son, Frank White, Jr.--an active member. Under the current leadership of President Yolanda Roussell, the Stafford County NAACP continues to be a beacon in the community through its activism, partnerships with local churches, support for Black-owned businesses, voter registration drives, and community forums on African American history, public education, and mental health. The Stafford County NAACP brings the entire community together for large celebrations--including the Stafford County NAACP Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration and the Stafford County NAACP Juneteenth Commemoration and Celebration. These events would not have been possible without the hard work of its members. The Stafford County NAACP has demonstrated a fervent commitment to our communities and an extraordinary devotion to the strength and prosperity of our Commonwealth. As the U.S. Representative for Virginia's Seventh District, I am honored to recognize this organization for its tremendous record of service to Stafford County-- and I thank the Stafford County NAACP for building a stronger Virginia.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend the work of World Harvest United Churches during their 2023 National Holy Gathering in Dumfries, Virginia. An annual event, the National Holy Gathering brings people together in the spirit of service. This year's theme is ``Ignite 2023,'' and it is guided by Matthew 5:14-16: ``You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.'' Guided by Presiding Prelate Bishop Calvin B. Davis, Sr., and hosted by Virginia State Bishop Kenneth W. Jones, Sr., this gathering provides attendees with activities, classes, and worship events. It culminates with a day of volunteerism and outreach in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Women of Worth, and Project-Mend-A-House. Finally, ``Ignite 2023'' would not be possible without the hard work of community leaders like Bishop George W. Thigpen, III, Bishop of Outreach, Pastor Kathleen Deane, National Director of Outreach, Elder Daniel M. Deane, Sr., Adjutant General, Bishop Rick Boykin, Co-Adjutor to the State Bishop, and Lady Michelle Thigpen, Director of Women of Worth Virginia. Mr. Speaker, l ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating World Harvest Churches on 11 years of service to the community through their annual National Holy Gathering. Their outreach and community-oriented mindset is invaluable to Virginia.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I stand here to recognize some of Virginia's many proud veterans and military families. One of my most powerful memories of my late grandfather was when I took him to the World War II Memorial and had the opportunity to stand with him on the side marked Pacific and hear some of his stories from his time in service. These are stories that he, throughout my childhood, never shared, but at that memorial chose to share with me. As a Representative for Virginia's Seventh District and as a Representative of many military families and veterans, I ensure that I am giving a voice and putting into the Congressional Record some of the extraordinary stories of service that we have throughout our district. Earlier this year, I reached out to Virginians across the Seventh District asking them to share stories of service to recognize their loved ones who answered the call or share their own experiences. I heard from people across the Seventh District, and I was proud to share some of those stories in May during Military Appreciation Month, and I will continue to do so into the future. Kenneth J. Schmidt from Prince William County shared the long record of service in his family, writing ``My family is a proud military one. Our father served during World War I. Seven brothers-in-law, two cousins, and my oldest brother served during World War II. My other brother and I served during the Korean war. Army, Navy, Air Force, we were there.'' I thank Mr. Schmidt for his family's sacrifices on behalf of our country. We received a story from James Willess who lives in Fredericksburg. Mr. Willess wrote, ``My father, Homer Leroy Willess, served in the U.S. Navy from July 1937 to September 1945, mostly in the Pacific theater. Four of his brothers also served in the Navy, and his eldest sister served as an Army nurse during World War II. Three of his younger brothers served in the Navy during the Korean war, and their youngest sister served as a Navy nurse during the Vietnam war. I am extremely proud of my father and siblings for serving their country in uniform during three major wars.'' Neil Hornung from Spotsylvania, a veteran himself, shared with us, ``I served in the Marine Corps from 1982 until 2008. Served in Operation Desert Storm, Operation Desert Shield, and Operation Uphold Democracy. My last tour was as the Marine Corps lead for critical infrastructure.'' I thank Mr. Hornung for his service. Mr. Hornung wanted to recognize a member of his family who followed in his footsteps. He wrote, ``My oldest son is First Lieutenant Brandon Hornung, United States Marine Corps, currently stationed on Okinawa.'' I thank Brandon for his service. Please stay safe. Paul from Spotsylvania shared his father's story of service in the United States Marine Corps. He wrote, ``My dad, Ed Czartosieski, was at the Battle of Chosin Reservoir in Korea as a marine pilot flying Corsair aircraft. He flew out of Hagaru and was surrounded by Chinese forces. He assisted in saving many lives with the `advance to the rear' as the Marine Corps. He retired as a test pilot for Grumman Aerospace on Long Island. Dad is doing well in Greenport, New York, and soon to be age 100.'' Paul wrote, ``I hope to get to the United States Marine Corps Museum in Quantico, Virginia.'' Harry Dolph from Stafford sent us the story of his mother, a patriot who stepped into service on behalf of our country when it needed her the most. Mr. Dolph wrote, ``My mother, Caroline Alva Bush, was one of the first dozen women to enlist in the U.S. Navy during World War I, and served in personnel in Washington, D.C.'' George Wratney from Orange County shared a story highlighting the sacrifices and contributions of military families. Mr. Wratney shared with us, ``I was a Marine in Vietnam from April 1968 to May 1969, but this is about my bride of 22 months when I left home, and the thousands of military brides like her, who had no one `in their boat' back home to share stories, fears, anxieties. No email then. No social media. Only prayers. We owe them, all of them, much gratitude as they stood by.'' I thank Mr. Wratney for his service and recognizing the service and the sacrifice of military families like his bride. Veterans, servicemembers, and Virginia's proud military family members are our neighbors, friends, and community members--their stories are woven into the fabric of our Nation and certainly Virginia's Seventh District. We owe them a debt of gratitude, and we must thank every American who answered the call and every American that will do so in the future. We are undoubtedly freer thanks to the service and sacrifice of Virginians that answered the call.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. Abdul Noor, winner of a Black Engineer of the Year Award. The youngest of four siblings and the son of a single mother, Abdul and his family faced many challenges in his youth. Abdul was born in Pakistan after his mother made the difficult decision to leave her home in search of a better life for her family. At the age of three, Abdul's mom relocated her family to Idaho with the help of a refugee organization. They eventually made their way to Virginia in search of opportunities for their family. Growing up, Abdul was an active learner--he played baseball, swam, practiced martial arts, and participated in clubs where he learned about computers and robotics. Throughout his high school career, Abdul served as the president of his high school Red Cross chapter, organized toy drives, and was an active volunteer in the community. His love for the medical field stems from his mother's career as a pediatrician, which she sacrificed to give her children a better life. Abdul credits family meal conversations with his mom and sisters for sparking his interest in the biomedical engineering field and helping steer his college career. After graduating from high school, Abdul attended George Mason University where he focused his undergraduate studies on biomedical engineering. He graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2020, was awarded the Chairman's Award, and was also class speaker. After graduation, Abdul joined MITRE as an Associate Biomedical Engineer after having interned with them his junior year of college. As a member of the MITRE team, Abdul continued to learn and grow and excelled on projects due to his ability to adapt and learn quickly. In addition to his work at MITRE, Abdul is the CEO of Rune Innovations Inc., a medical device startup he founded with the goal of designing, patenting, and marketing surgical airway management devices for use by medical professionals. Abdul and the Rune team have since developed a patent-pending device called the Sliding Jaw Thrust Device (SJTD) which would allow a medical professional to clear a patient's obstructed airway by mimicking the jaw thrust maneuver. Abdul's leadership was invaluable in navigating the process of creating and applying for a patent for this technology. Abdul's commitment to biomedical engineering and professional growth is admirable. His strong work ethic has led him to be this year's recipient of a Black Engineer of the Year Award (BEYA). Specifically, Abdul was named the winner of a Modern-Day Technology Leader Award by a panel of leaders from industry, government, and academia in recognition for his work in shaping the future of engineering, science, and technology. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Abdul Noor, recipient of the Modern-Day Technology Leader Award. I applaud his strong work ethic and dedication to learning and look forward to all that he will accomplish in the years to come.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Aneira Banwar for her volunteerism, service, and acts of kindness. Aneira started volunteering at the age of 5. As she began this journey, she realized that there are limited opportunities for children to donate their time. This gap led her to create the ``12K plan''--12 months of kindness. This plan consists of 12 monthly kindness projects that kids can do at home. Recently, Aneira assembled and donated more than 500 ``boredom buster kits'' for patients at a local children's hospital. She accomplished this project by inspiring others in her community to join her in making the kits. Now 7 years old, Aneira has logged more than 100 hours of community service. Her hope is to encourage other children to volunteer in their community, because she believes that kids ``hold the power to shape and change the future in a positive way by performing random acts of kindness 1 month at a time.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Aneira Banwar. Her commitment to others is noble and inspiring--and I look forward to all that she will accomplish in the future through her volunteer work.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. Frank Manuel White, a poet and veteran from Stafford, Virginia. Frank wrote his first poem at the young age of 12. His love for writing poetry carried over into adulthood and was woven into his life and military career. Frank served in the U.S. Air Force for a total of 26 years, from 1957 to 1983. He served as an officer for 10 of those years. During and after his time in the military, Frank penned poems during his free time, often on weekends and evenings. These poems give us a glimpse into his life, his thoughts, and his surroundings. Frank's poems were published in 2022 in a book titled ``Frank's Homespun Poems from the Heart: A Country Boy's Poetry.'' Some of the poems included are poems he penned for his now wife, Dorothy, along with her responses to him. The poems exchanged between Dorothy and Frank are a reminder of their long-distance courtship--the poems were sent while Frank was stationed at Ft. Eustis, Virginia and MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida and Dorothy lived in North Carolina. These lovely poems served as their main way of correspondence and are lasting evidence of their love and commitment to one another. In June of 2019, Frank composed a work titled ``TEXAS JUNETEENTH EPIC POEM.'' This poem tells the story of how Juneteenth came to be, and it details history that we must not forget. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Mr. Frank Manuel White for his service to our country and for his contributions to keeping the history of our nation alive through his poetry. Mr. Speaker, I wish to include in the Record Mr. White's poem, so future generations of Americans can access his poetry for years to come. Texas Juneteenth Epic Poem Mr. Thomas Jefferson wrote in Seventeen Seventy-six Words which have survived for ages, addressing a problem to fix. ``All men are created equal'' were his words to the British Crown, ``But the way you are treating us, has caused us to do more than frown.'' So the colonies fought a war, which General Washington led, Everyone knows the end results, colonies won, British fled. But then Thomas Jefferson's words were cast aside put on a shelf. They only applied to those men, who looked like Jefferson himself. So Slavery kept on keeping on, in this land called the USA, The issue had to be resolved, another time, another day. Then in eighteen sixty one, Abe Lincoln was the president, War broke out between North and South, now guess what that was all about? An issue of human control, had once more risen to the top, ABE Lincoln told his staff and aides, ``This war and slavery got to stop.'' ABE wrote a famous document, willing to set many slaves free, The first day of the first month of the year, Eighteen Sixty- three. Emancipation Proclamation, was the name of that document, But some folks did not get the word, until long after it was sent. Like all those folks in Southern States, hoping one day to be free, Many did not get their freedom, until the surrender of Lee. Members of the 25th Army Corps, on May 25, 1865, Boarded Steam Ships at City Point, VA for a long boat ride. They were headed to that Lone Star State, carrying news for a minority Race, The war was over, slaves were free, still they were encouraged to remain in place. June 19th, Eighteen Sixty-five, via General Order Number Three, Slaves in Galveston got the word, the war over they were free. Those enslaved remembered that day, they celebrated far and wide, And Juneteenth is what they called it, celebrating that day with pride. ----Frank M. White

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Captain Jesse H. Black for his remarkable achievement of assuming command of the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory. Raised in South Florida, Captain Jesse Black's naval career began in 1990 when he enlisted in the Navy as an Electronics Technician. There, he demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill, graduating from the naval nuclear training pipeline in 1992. Captain Black's pursuit of knowledge and professional development led him to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering, with a focus on hydrodynamic power design and environmental engineering from the University of Idaho in 2000. He continued to excel academically and obtained a Master of Science degree in electrical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School in 2007, where he published a thesis on solid state power systems. As an officer, Captain Black's leadership skills and technical expertise flourished during his four years aboard the USS Cape St. George (CG 71). He demonstrated his versatility by fulfilling various engineering roles and serving as the Combat Information Center Officer after earning his Surface Warfare Officer (SWO) designation. Captain Black then transferred to the Engineering Duty Officer community where he served in multiple engineering and project management roles with the Program Executive Office for Aircraft Carriers, Naval Sea Systems Command, USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) Program Executive Office, and at both the Portsmouth and Norfolk Naval Shipyards. Notably, Captain Black's exceptional leadership abilities extend beyond engineering. He was specially selected to serve as a Senior Sustainability Officer in the White House, serving under two presidential administrations. His tireless effort and commitment to sustainability initiatives contributed to the nation's broader goals of environmental stewardship and energy conservation. On June 25, 2021, Captain Black assumed the role of Executive Officer of the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory where he oversaw the laboratory's day-to-day activities, including maintenance and logistics. As he now moves into the role of Commanding Officer, Captain Black's guidance and strategic vision will continue to advance the critical research and development efforts undertaken at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory. Mr. Speaker, Captain Black has selflessly served our Nation and has displayed an unwavering commitment to excellence. His contributions through his service have upheld the Navy's mission. I congratulate Captain Black and his family on this well-deserved honor, and l look forward to his continued success. I thank him for his selfless service to our country.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Patti Liski, Dean of Nursing and Health Technologies at Germanna Community College, on a remarkable career as a nurse, educator, and community college advocate. Nearly 40 years ago, Dr. Lisk started her career at Germanna when she joined as a nursing faculty member in 1983. In 1986, she transitioned to full-time teaching. During her time at Germanna, Dr. Lisk has been credited with revolutionizing the school's nursing program and building a statewide on line nursing program. Her work writing the original grant for the purchase of human patient simulators brought cutting-edge technology to the school and kickstarted Germanna's Virtual Hospital. In 2013, after the passing of Dean Mary Gilkey, Dr. Lisk rose to the occasion after her emergency appointment to Dean of Nursing and Health Technologies, and in that role has helped further expand the mission of Germanna's nursing program. Dr. Lisk has also served as a fierce advocate for the promise and potential that lies within America's community colleges. She has seized the opportunity to help students, many identifying as firstgeneration students, navigate the college process and become successful nurses. Her personal investment in supporting students through every step of their journey is admirable and has had a profound impact on the quality of nurses graduating from Germanna. As seen by her numerous professional awards and accolades, Dr. Lisk has had an exceptional career. She has positively impacted the lives of thousands of nurses, creating a ripple effect to be felt for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, as the U.S. Representative for Virginia's Seventh District, I am proud to represent dedicated individuals like Dr. Patti Lisk. I would like to congratulate her on an exceptional career and wish her the best on a well-earned retirement.

Ms. SPANBERGER

Ms. SPANBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dr. George M. Hampton. Dr. Hampton passed away late last month at the age of 95, and I was honored to have met this stalwart Virginia leader. In the days since his passing, I have heard directly from many in the Prince William County community about his outsized role in standing up for fair political representation. I have heard about his service as a mentor to the next generation of leaders, and the community has celebrated what a dedicated man he was in his professional and personal life to the service of others in his community. Dr. Hampton truly lived his values, one of which was education. He received his bachelor of science degree from North Carolina A&T University, a master of science degree from Virginia State University, and a doctorate of arts in education from the University of Central Arizona. Dr. Hampton then dedicated himself to educating the next generation as an adjunct professor of psychology at the Far East Division of the University of Maryland, as well as an adjunct professor of human relations at Pepperdine University. Dr. Hampton also valued service to country. He served for more than two decades in the United States Army, fulfilling various command and staff assignments and spending 4 years as an assistant professor of military science at Virginia State University. He was awarded the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, and the Army Commendation Medal during his military service. He retired from the Army in 1971 as a lieutenant colonel. Following his retirement from the military, Dr. Hampton held many positions that allowed him to have a hand in shaping future leaders, both within and outside of military service. One such role was as codirector of the Marine Corps Leadership and Human Relations Institute in San Diego, California, where he helped train leadership instructors for the formal schools at Quantico, in Virginia's Seventh District, and other major installations. Throughout decades of service to the Commonwealth of Virginia, Dr. Hampton was appointed by both Democrats and Republicans to hold various notable positions. In 1982, Governor Charles Robb appointed him to the Virginia Parole Board. Reappointed by Governor Gerald Baliles, he served on this board until 1990. In 1995, Governor George Allen appointed him to a 4-year term on the State Board of Elections, where he served as vice chairman until January 1999. In July 2003, then-Governor Mark Warner appointed him as a member of the Board of Visitors at Virginia State University, where he served until July 2007. He was also a member of the Virginia State University Foundation. Dr. Hampton was appointed to serve on the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Citizens Advisory Council, as well as the Prince William County representative to the Board of Directors of Northern Virginia Community College. As a 47-year resident of Prince William County, Dr. Hampton played an active role in his community. He was a proud founding member of the Pi Lambda Lambda Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. For 7 years, from 1975 to 1982, Dr. Hampton served as the political adviser to the Prince William County branch of the NAACP. Dr. Hampton was a member of the Disabled American Veterans organization, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, Military Officers Association of America, and the Fellowship Club of Prince William County. The impact Dr. Hampton had on his community is clear, leading him to become the namesake of the George M. Hampton Foundation. Sponsored by the Pi Lambda Lambda Chapter, Inc., and founded on the idea of helping those in need throughout Prince William County and surrounding communities, the foundation provides thousands of dollars in scholarships to local high school students each year. On top of decades of committed service of his own, one of his greatest attributes was his desire to recognize the service of others. He was one of the originators of the Prince William County Walk of Fame, the permanent granite plaques recognizing the accomplishments of high-profile community servants across the county. I have been proud to join in celebrating his legacy as a pioneer of remembering Black history and culture in Prince William County and across the Commonwealth. For years, long before we recognized Juneteenth as a Federal holiday, Dr. Hampton celebrated the holiday in his own backyard, and I was overjoyed to have the opportunity to celebrate Juneteenth with him last year. Perhaps one of his proudest accomplishments was that he served as a living inspiration and role model to Virginia students attending the school in Dale City named in his honor. Dr. Hampton met with students of George M. Hampton Middle School regularly. He shared his stories, his memories, and historic moments of his life in Virginia. He offered them encouragement, in addition to raising funds for the school. Madam Speaker, please join me in remembering Dr. Hampton.