Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the ``Flight School Security Act of 2013.'' This bipartisan legislation closes a known aviation security gap by requiring individuals seeking flight training on aircraft with a maximum certified takeoff weight of more than 12,500 pounds to be checked against the terrorist watchlist prior to receiving flight training. I am proud to have the Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security's Subcommittee on Transportation Security, Cedric Richmond, and the Chairman of the Committee's Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Security Technologies, Patrick Meehan, as original cosponsors of this important legislation. Under current law, a flight instructor, pilot school, or aviation training center are only required to check aliens--non-United States citizens--against the terrorist watchlist and receive a determination from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) as to whether that individual presents a risk to aviation or national security prior to providing flight training. U.S. citizens who seek the same training do not undergo these simple checks. As a matter of practice, daily checks against the terrorist watchlist are only undertaken for aliens and individuals who hold valid airman's certifications issued by the Federal Aviation Administration; TSA does not check the names of those seeking or undertaking flight training against the watchlist until after they have already been trained on how to fly a plane and are applying for a certificate to take their first solo flight. The ``Flight School Security Act of 2013'' closes this security gap by requiring that any individual seeking training in the operation of any aircraft having a maximum certified takeoff weight of more than 12,500 pounds, including a United States citizen, be checked against the terrorist watchlist to ascertain if the individual may pose a threat to aviation or national security and receive a determination from the Assistant Secretary that the individual does not pose a threat that warrants denial of access to such training. The ``Flight School Security Act of 2013'' would subject individuals seeking flight school training to the same terrorist watchlist check that anyone taking a flight domestically undergoes. It does not compel United States citizens to provide the exhaustive list of personally identifiable information, including fingerprints, which are required to be provided by an alien seeking flight training. Mr. Speaker, the ``Flight School Security Act of 2013'' is a common sense, bipartisan bill, crafted in consultation with both TSA and stakeholders. The bill is the product of the oversight work of the Committee on Homeland Security and represents a common sense solution to a glaring security gap. Just last week, in an appearance before the Committee on Homeland Security's Subcommittee on Transportation Security, the TSA Administrator, John S. Pistole, stated that this security gap is an issue that has to be addressed, that Congressional action would be welcome, and that checking those seeking flight training against the terrorist watchlist prior to them commencing flight training would be the best security. I urge my colleagues to support the ``Flight School Security Act of 2013'' so that we can be secure in the knowledge that no person who poses a security threat that is significant enough to be blocked from boarding an aircraft is allowed to learn to fly one.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today, I am introducing legislation that strengthens our transportation security. The 9/11 Commission identified key vulnerabilities that existed across our transportation security and how they were exploited by the 9/11 hijackers. Soon after 9/11, industry representatives across the transportation sector, including labor, cargo and aviation representatives came together to support the Transportation Security Administration in developing a robust and layered security program that addressed threats and vulnerabilities across the aviation security. The Aviation Security Advisory Committee, first established in 1989 after the Pan American World Airways Flight 103, has played a critical role in the development of transportation security policies and protocols. However, under TSA, the ASAC remained inactive for several years and reportedly reorganized in 2008 and renewed with a charter in 2011 after receiving pressure from Congress to reconstitute this group. This was done after stakeholders expressed ongoing frustrations to Congress about the lack in dialog between them and TSA in developing transportation security policies. This legislation will establish the Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC) into law and will ensure that TSA engages with critical stakeholders prior and throughout the modification of critical policy changes such as the one announced last week. Specifically, my legislation authorizes the ASAC and requires the establishment of targeted working groups on air cargo, general aviation, perimeter security and risk based security, which will allow the ASAC to address security issues that require effective collaboration between the government and the private sector. One glaring example that underscores the need for this legislation is TSA's recent decision to modify its prohibited items list and allow knives and sporting equipment that could be used as weapons through checkpoint security without a robust and formal engagement with stakeholders. TSA decided that passengers would be allowed to bring knives with blades as long as 2.36 inches on airplanes. Further, TSA adjusted its ``Prohibited Items List'' to allow passengers to bring up to one hockey stick, one lacrosse stick, two golf clubs, and small souvenir bats as carry on items. Not surprising, this announcement immediately received significant criticism from industry representatives, air carriers, passenger groups, flight attendants, pilots, law enforcement groups and even the representative for TSA's frontline screener workforce. I too have expressed my deepest concerns with this policy, not just because TSA is allowing certain questionable items aboard a plane without a justification for its decision, but because TSA decided not to consult with stakeholder representatives prior to announcing changes to this policy. The general public and stakeholders such as flight attendants, pilots, airlines, and air marshals are the most affected by this decision. By authorizing the ASAC into law, we can ensure that TSA will not dismantle the important advisory committee and be required to utilize this valuable mechanism when developing policies that impact millions of passengers and critical stakeholders. I want to also recognize my colleagues Congressman Richmond, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Transportation Security, and all other members of the Subcommittee, including Congresswoman Jackson Lee and Congressman Swalwell, as original cosponsors to this legislation. Enactment of my legislation will increase security in the aviation system and mitigate ever-present terrorist threats.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a courageous volunteer firefighter, Mr. Jerry Barber. In addition to serving his community as a volunteer firefighter, Mr. Barber is a member of the Leland High School Class of 1978, the cook for the Leland High School Booster Club, and he is also a carpenter. Mr. Barber got his inspiration to be a volunteer firefighter from former Chief James Hasting of Leland, Mississippi. Mr. Barber thought he was brave and wanted to be like him. So, he started asking Chief Hasting about being a firefighter. Chief Hasting told him, ``it's not about the money, it's about the life and property you save for others.'' In 2006, Chief Michael Johnson of the Leland Fire Department hired Mr. Barber as a volunteer firefighter, where he is still employed. Since then he has taken great pride in being a fireman through training and certification. He is certified in Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). He is also trained and licensed to drive fire trucks along with mechanical knowledge and equipment maintenance of the truck. In addition to that, Mr. Barber has undergone training in other fire equipment operation and safety. Mr. Barber has excelled up the ranks since 2006 to become the Assistant Chief of the Leland Fire Department. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Jerry Barber for his dedication and passion for serving the city of Leland, Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a remarkable veteran of the Korean Conflict from 1954-1957, Pastor Jesse J. Jossell, Jr., of Marks, Mississippi. Jesse was born in Coahoma County on September 5, 1935 to the late Jesse J. and Cordelia B. Jossell, Sr. His family later moved to Quitman County, Mississippi where he attended school and in May 1954 he graduated from Marks Industrial High School. He received his Associate of Arts Degree from Coahoma Junior College in May 1959. In 1961, he received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Jackson State College, now Jackson State University. He also attended Howard University in 1965. In 1969, he earned a Master of Science Degree in Natural Science from Oklahoma State University and later a Master of Education Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision in 1973. From 1960 until 1973, Jesse Jossell worked for the Quitman County School District in Marks, Mississippi as a classroom science teacher and science supervisor before accepting a principal position at the Falcon Junior High School in 1973. In 1973, Jesse Jossell was asked to seek the office of Superintendent of Schools in the upcoming State and County Elections in 1975. Just four years earlier, the leadership in the black community under the new voting rights law sought to test this new tool. Jesse by far was the most attractive candidate and offered the best opportunity to elect an African-American to a countywide position. For two years, voter registration was the order of the day. More than 1,500 African- Americans were added to the voter rolls by qualifying deadline. Although Jesse and the other black candidates were not elected, three years later he was elected the first African-American to the Quitman County Board of Supervisors. Jesse Jossell was later called into the ministry, where he has served as Pastor of Holly Grove Missionary Baptist Church since 1984. Through his work as pastor, he has provided child care to working mothers, especially single low-income and those trying to better themselves by going to school. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Pastor Jesse Jossell, Jr. for a life of dedication to bettering the lives of the least among us.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an active soldier, Captain Tamiko Wright. Captain Wright is a 1996 graduate of Vicksburg High School. Upon graduating from high school, she attended the University of Southern Mississippi, where she earned her bachelor's degree in Kinesiology. She also holds a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from Columbia Southern University and is currently seeking an additional Masters degree in Logistics. Captain Wright is employed by the Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS) at Camp Shelby, Mississippi where she is the Supervisor of Production Control. Captain Wright oversees the flow of approximately 1500 work requests per month on various types of military equipment. Her additional duties at CSMS include Anti-Terrorism Officer, Assistant Safety Officer, Hazardous Waste Management Coordinator, Sexual Harassment Officer, Assistant Operating Manager and SAMS-1E training officer. Captain Wright and her husband, Larry Wright, reside in Hattiesburg, Mississippi and have two lovely daughters: Amari, 7 years old and Lorrie, 2 years old. Captain Wright has dedicated over 12 years to the Mississippi Army National Guard. While doing so, she has served her country in deployments for Operation Iraqi Freedom to Kuwait and served on the S1 administrative staff for Operation Clean-Up during Hurricane Katrina. Captain Wright is presently serving as Company Commander of the 1387th Quarter Master Water Supply Company in Greenville, Mississippi. Her successful career includes: Platoon Leader for D1 367th Maintenance Company, DeKalb, Mississippi; Executive Officer, 367th Maintenance Company, Philadelphia, Mississippi; and Acting Commander of the 367th Maintenance Company. While attending Officer Candidate School (OCS), Captain Wright was named Outstanding Graduate for excellence in academics and leadership; she also received the Erickson Award for the candidate whose overall class ranking was number 1 based on overall criteria; and the Adjutant General Award for outstanding leadership ability. She also received numerous decorations and badges: the Army Achievement Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Device, Mississippi Longevity Medal, Mississippi Emergency Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon and the Army Service Ribbon. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring an active soldier, Captain Tamiko Wright.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Mr. Aaron Honeysucker. Aaron was born in Camden, Mississippi in 1948. He is the father of three adult children-- Felicia A. Berry, Marcus M. Honeysucker, and Chelsie B. Coleman. Mr. Honeysucker is a retired military veteran who served during the Vietnam War. While serving in the military, Mr. Honeysucker also worked as an insurance salesman from 1972-1980. He's currently a small business owner and sells real estate. Mr. Honeysucker graduated from Velma Jackson High School in 1967, Hinds Junior College in 1972, and Jackson State University in 1997. Mr. Honeysucker is a member of several social & civic organizations including the Veteran of Foreign Wars, JSU Alumni Association, Blue Bengal Athletic Association, Woodhaven Homeowners Association, The Retired Active Reserve and Armed Forces Association, and Red Cross Volunteer. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Aaron Honeysucker for his dedication to serving to our great country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a minority businesswoman and entrepreneur, Mrs. Brenda Love. Mrs. Brenda Love is a woman on the move and with many talents. She was born to Martha Lewis and the late Grant Jones, Sr. Until the age of 14, she was raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. Later, her mother relocated the family to Vicksburg, Mississippi to be closer to her grandmother, Mrs. Ola Mae Williams. Mrs. Love credits her ambition to her mother, whom she learned from an early age to work hard, keep good credit, pay your bills, and take care of your kids. Mrs. Love worked for the Federal Government for 20 years until she decided to step out on faith and follow her heart to being an entrepreneur. She is the owner of Love Income Tax Service, which has been in business for 17 years, with 6 full-time employees. She and her husband, Jacob, own Unique Banquet Hall, which is a thriving gathering place serving the Vicksburg area. She also is a Realtor-associate with Coldwell-Banker All Stars. Brenda, who has been married for 23 years to Jacob, has also owned and operated Unique Impressions Restaurant and Lounge. In her spare time, she loves to decorate and coordinate weddings. Mrs. Love is a member of the Warren County Board of Realtors and also serves on the board for the Vicksburg Convention Center and City Auditorium. Mr. and Mrs. Love have three children, Jakayla, Jacob, and Manekia Love-Jackson and two grandchildren, Mikayla and Madison. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring a minority businesswoman and entrepreneur, Mrs. Brenda Love.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a remarkable veteran of the Korean Conflict from July 30, 1954 until July 25, 1957. Ned Gathwright served in the United States Army in the Infantry 11 Bravo Company. He received his Basic and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. His duty stations were Airborne School at Fort Campbell, Kentucky and Co E 505th Infantry 2nd Airborne Battalion Group in Augsburg, Germany. For his service, he has received the National Defense Medal, Parachutist Badge, and the Good Conduct Medal. Mr. Gathwright's early education was in the Coahoma County Schools, graduating in 1954 from Coahoma County Agricultural High School. In 1957, he enrolled at Coahoma Junior College on the Montgomery GI Bill. Upon graduating, he entered Jackson State University and received his Bachelor Degree in 1960. The Quitman County School District employed him in the district's Science and Math Departments the same year. He continued his formal education at UCLA, Texas A & M, Michigan State University, and received his Master in Education at the University of Mississippi. He is married to the former Fannie Hurst and they have two daughters: Sabrina and Katrina. He's a member of the Greenhill Missionary Baptist Church and Coahoma Community College Board of Trustee. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Ned Gathwright, who has dedicated his life to serving his country and community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable veteran, Elizabeth Michelle Woods. She is a lifelong resident of the Mississippi Delta. Ms. Woods joined the United States Army Reserves while a senior in high school at East Side High School and served eight years with the 479th Ordnance Company. She completed a tour of duty in Operation Desert Storm as an assistant squad leader. She earned the U.S. Army Achievement Medal, the U.S. Army Certificate of Achievement and other awards. After returning from Saudi Arabia she obtained an Associate of Arts Degree in Social Work. Ms. Woods earned the rank of Sergeant Promotional after serving our country for 12 years and received an Honorable Discharge. During and after completion of her military service, she continued her educational pursuits and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work, a Masters Degree in Social Work, and an Executive Masters of Science Degree in Health Administration. Ms. Woods stated that her service to America taught her that she can succeed in her life pursuits. She has utilized her social work skills during her tenure in law enforcement and developed a Crime Victims Assistance Program with the Department of Veterans Affairs where she provided mental health services. Ms. Woods has also served as Director of Social Work at Delta Health Center and Aaron Henry Health Center. Ms. Woods is the daughter of the late Percy and Annie Woods. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Elizabeth Woods for her dedication to serving our great country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a war veteran, Mr. Andrew L. Hawkins. Mr. Hawkins is a native of Tallahatchie County, Mississippi. He is the youngest son born to the late Dave and Evelyn Hawkins of Webb. He received his early education in the West Tallahatchie School District and is a 1966 graduate of West District High School of Sumner. Mr. Hawkins migrated to Chicago, IL after graduation, and shortly thereafter was inducted into the United States Army. Mr. Hawkins attended Basic Training and Advanced Infantry Training (AIT) in Fort Polk, Louisiana. He qualified with the 45 caliber, M-14 and M-16 as a marksman and sharp shooter. His next duty station following AIT landed him in Southeast Asia (Vietnam) from 1969 to 1970, where he served one year of duty initially while stationed in La Kai for several months with the First Infantry Division. The remainder of his tour was with the 101st Airborne Division, where he was wounded in action and was awarded a Purple Heart Metal and returned home. After being honorably discharged from the Army, he began pursuing higher education at DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois on the GI Bill. He completed his bachelor's degree and much of his master's at DePaul. He later moved back to his home state of Mississippi because he felt that his military experience had equipped him with life skills and discipline to cope with life challenges back home. Mr. Hawkins attributes his will to survive and success to his parents, community, elementary and high school teachers, and his strong spiritual upbringing. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing wounded Vietnam War Veteran and Purple Heart recipient, Mr. Andrew L. Hawkins, for his dedication and service to his country while in the United States Army.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a courageous and remarkable veteran, Mrs. Pamela W. Walker. Mrs. Walker was born and raised in Leland, Mississippi. She is one of seven children born on September 27, 1962 to Mr. Vernell and Mrs. Claudine Wilson. She is married to Mr. Lester Walker and has three sons: Jarvis, Reginald, and Derrick. Mrs. Walker graduated from Leland High School in 1980. She went on to further her education at Alcorn State University, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1985; her Bachelor of Science degree in 1994 from Mississippi Valley State University; and her Masters of Science in 2002, also from Mississippi Valley State University. Mrs. Walker joined the Army ROTC at Alcorn State University, on May 15, 1984. She has served a total of 26 years in the military. Over that time period, she has attended several military schools, received numerous awards, and she has served overseas in FEPA-Okinawa, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Iraq, and Korea. Furthermore, her determination and drive to serve this country has pushed her up the ladder in leadership. She was appointed Second Lieutenant (1984), First Lieutenant (1987), Captain (1991), Major (1998), and she retired as a Lieutenant Colonel (2006). Mrs. Walker is currently an elementary teacher in Greenville Public School District (Mississippi), where she has been for 23 years. She has learned a lot about life during her time in the service, and it has helped her in her classroom. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Pamela W. Walker for her time and dedication to serving our country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. I rise to recognize a remarkable veteran, Marine Master Sergeant Elbert Lester. On Friday, November 2, 2012 Marine Master Sergeant Elbert Lester, now eighty-seven years of age, was awarded the Muntford Point Marines' Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor bestowed by Congress for distinguished achievement. The Munford Point Marines were the first African-Americans to serve in the United States Marine Corps in 1941, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt created the Fair Employment Practices Commission, ultimately forcing the Corps to recruit blacks. When asked, ``Why did you choose the Marine Corps?'' he replied ``They decided that for me.'' He then explained while at the Army recruiting station, the black company was asked for volunteers to go into the Marines. No one did. ``So, they put our names in a hat and my name was one of those that were pulled. I was one of the unlucky ones.'' Elbert Lester was assigned to the 27th Depot Company as a Corporal and would leave the service as Master Sergeant. Following training, his unit was put aboard a ship in Norfolk, VA to Guadalcanal, a thirty-day voyage that would begin his time of service in the South Pacific. Most of the 19,000 black Marines trained at Munford Point were assigned to ammunition and depot companies, bring ammunition and supplies to the front lines, and returning wounded and dead to transport ships. After the war, he returned to Quitman County, Mississippi where he married his childhood sweetheart Pearline Williams. They have thirteen children: Frank, Teresia, Pearlie Mae, Elbert Jr., Patricia, Lacresia, Napoleon, Miranda, Alberta, Timothy, Roderick, Darius, Cornelius and three adopted: Waring, Tiffany and Kikera Brown. Mr. and Mrs. Lester have been married for 65 years and live on their 80-acre farm. They attend Woodland Missionary Baptist Church, where they both sing in the choir. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Monford Point Marine Master Sergeant Elbert Lester for his sacrifices in promoting democracy around the world and the United States of America.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Tutwiler Volunteer Fire Department (Tutwiler VFD) located in Tutwiler, Mississippi. The department serves a population of 3,550 citizens. The Tutwiler VFD is staffed by twelve volunteers tasked with the responsibility of saving lives and responding to emergencies. The staff consists of both full and part time volunteers. Some of the volunteers have been certified by the National Fire Protection Association and/or the State of Mississippi as a highly trained and qualified firefighter and first responder. Volunteer fire departments with trained firefighters are an invaluable asset to rural areas like Tutwiler. The job of saving lives requires skill, a passion for life, and good equipment. Some of the volunteers work for more than one volunteer fire department because many communities are small and spread apart. The Tutwiler VFD has a lot of territory to cover. They respond to calls from the Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility, the Tallahatchie County School District, and neighboring communities. The correctional facility is a 2800 bed facility, and the school district has a student body of over 800 students. When the Tutwiler VFD staff is not responding to calls, they engage in ongoing community outreach to educate citizens on fire safety measures and techniques. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Tutwiler Volunteer Fire Department for the work they are doing to save lives in the Mississippi Delta.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable volunteer fire department in the Mississippi Delta. The Shaw Volunteer Fire Company Number One was established on November 15, 1921 with Chas F. Hill as Fire Chief, R. V. Farmer as Assistant Chief, and N. L. Chapman as Captain and twenty firemen. Recently, the Shaw Volunteer Fire Department became a part of the Bolivar County Fire Department and is known as District 5. This has increased their service area to surrounding communities and they currently serve 4,000 residents. Since its establishment, the Shaw Volunteer Fire Department has been a great benefit to the citizens of Shaw by saving many lives, businesses, and personal property. The fire department has been the first responders and rescuers at numerous incidents like automobile, school bus, and natural disasters. The Shaw Volunteer Fire Department was one of the first departments to have female firefighters. Under the direction of its current Fire Chief, Timothy Caninco and Captain Bernice Boone and 12 firefighters, they have established the Shaw Fire Academy to educate and train youths and adults on fire safety. The fire department has received numerous outstanding performance certifications and awards. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the City of Shaw Volunteer Fire Department for its dedication to serving the citizens of Shaw and responding to call for help within the surrounding area.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a remarkable young man, Oliver Evans. He is the younger of two children born to Oliver and Pearlie Evans. Oliver is a graduate of Clarksdale High School, Coahoma Community College and Mississippi Valley State University. Oliver has been a fireman for four years with the Clarksdale Fire Department. He is certified by the Mississippi State Fire Academy. Saving lives is an emotional, physically fit, and demanding job. Firefighters must always be conscious of their physical ability and responsibility. Oliver received the ``Most Physically Fit Award'' from the Mississippi State Fire Academy. As a fireman, routine activities and exercises are what help him improve upon his ability to save lives such as checking fire hydrants, appliances, fire equipment, visiting local schools, building inspections and skill enhancement training. The extra training can be challenging and there are always new technologies that you must master. Again, the job is both physically and mentally demanding. You never know what to expect, the normal instinct is to run from danger; a firefighter runs into danger. Oliver said, ``I considered myself truly blessed to have the opportunity to affect the lives of others in the way that this job has provided.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Oliver Evans, a committed firefighter and public servant.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a selfless man of the community, Mr. Robert Seaton, Sr. Robert Seaton is a resident of Sharkey County, Mississippi. He was born December 2, 1944 in Blanton, Mississippi to the late Leola and Oscar Seaton. Mr. Seaton was raised by his grandparents, Ester and Joseph Kelly until 1954, the death of his grandmother. Mr. Seaton graduated from Rolling Fork School. After graduation he moved to Los Angeles, California where he worked in a bakery downtown. In 1972, he returned to Mississippi. Since his return Robert worked for an auto mechanics shop, served 14 years as a volunteer Firefighter in Cary, Mississippi, and served two terms as Alderman in the Town of Cary until he became the Mayor of Cary. Robert is a member of New Hope M. B. Church in Blanton, Mississippi. He also is a member of the Deer Creek Watershed Executive Board. Mr. Seaton hosts Fire Prevention Week each year for the children of the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Robert Seaton, Sr. for his dedication to serving others and giving back to the community he grew up in.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable veteran, John Matthews, Jr. He is a lifelong resident of the Mississippi Delta. Mr. Matthews was drafted to serve in the United States Army after graduating from Alcorn State University and becoming a licensed educator. Mr. Matthews served during the time of the Vietnam Conflict and was a member of the 258th Personnel Service Company and the 30th Air Defense Artillery Brigade. He earned the rank of Sergeant Major and after serving our country for 30 years he retired with an Honorable Discharge. Upon completion of his tour of duty, Mr. Matthews returned to the Mississippi Delta and was a business manager, educator and cancer research assistant. Mr. Matthews has stated that his service to America taught him discipline and leadership skills, and gave him the opportunity to travel and interact with various ethnic groups around the world. Mr. Matthews wanted to continue his contact with fellow veterans so he became a member of the American Legion Post 206 in Indianola, Mississippi. In 2010 he was elected to serve as Vice Commander of VFW Post 206. He serves in other leadership roles as Chairman of the Sunflower Humphreys Counties Progress, Inc; Head Start Policy Council; Chairman of the Sunflower County Democratic Executive Committee; Community representative of the Sunflower County Crime Stoppers Program and Deacon at Bell Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Matthews is married to Ms. Gwendolyn Goines-Matthews. His life motto is from Robert E. Lee: ``First be sure you're right, and then proceed''. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. John Matthews for his dedication to serving our great country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a courageous woman of the community, Mrs. Annie Larry. Annie Larry, a lifelong resident of Rolling Fork, MS was born August 4, 1962. She is the sixth of ten children born to the late Mariah and Herman Larry. Annie has been married to Nathaniel Pinkins for twenty- six years, and they have four children. Mrs. Larry graduated from Rolling Fork High School in 1981. She went on to receive an Associate Degree in 1983 from Mississippi Delta Community College. In 2009 Annie became the first female volunteer firewoman in Rolling Fork, MS. Annie is the Founder and President of the gospel group, Southern Truth, of which she started 17 years ago. She is a member of House of Peace, under the leadership of Apostle Linda Sweezer. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Annie Larry for her dedication to serving others and giving back to the community she grew up in.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Jackson, Mississippi Fire Department. The Jackson Fire Department is the largest fire department in the State of Mississippi. The Jackson Fire Department currently consists of 7 divisions with 433 budgeted positions. The 7 divisions that make up the Jackson Fire Department are Administration and Finance; Arson and Internal Affairs; Community Relations and Fire Safety Education; Emergency Services; Training, Safety, Research and Development; Office of the Fire Marshal; and Fire Loss. Emergency Services is the largest division which consists of 21 fire stations and 32 pieces of emergency equipment. In 2006, they upgraded all of their Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBA) along with new ultralite facepieces. The Jackson Fire Department constantly strives for improvement and the highest level of firefighting by updating and purchasing the latest firefighting equipment and technology such as thermal cameras, chemical detectors, weather stations, portable radios, TSI Portacount Plus Respirator fit testers, Scott Eagle Imagers, video conference systems, Lifepak AEDs, and personal protective gear. In April 2006, the Jackson Fire Department sponsored an Urban Search and Rescue class, which enhances their ability to serve the City of Jackson and any other city in times of immediate need. In the summer of 2006, the Jackson Fire Department received 7 new fire trucks. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Jackson Fire Department for their dedication to serving the citizens of Jackson, Mississippi.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable veteran, Tommy Traxler, Jr. Mr. Traxler has shown what can be done through hard work, setting goals, and aiming high. Tommy Traxler, Jr., was born January 17, 1945 in Crystal Springs, Mississippi to the late Charlean Traxler and Tommy Traxler, Sr. He was reared by his grandmother, the late Gussie Hudson. He was a 1963 graduate of William H. Holtzclaw Memorial High School in Crystal Springs, Mississippi and 1965 graduate of Utica Junior College, Utica, Mississippi. On September 6, 1966, Tommy was killed in Vietnam. Tommy had two siblings; one brother, Charles E. Pickett and one sister, Cynthia Traxler of Crystal Springs, Mississippi. His hobbies included football, basketball and drawing. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Tommy Traxler, Jr. for his dedication to serving our great country and his community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable volunteer firefighter, Ms. Deleigh Daniel. Ms. Daniel wanted to become a firefighter after hearing her ex- husband speak about his experiences and the importance of being able to save a life or someone's home. In 2007, she joined the Linn Steiner Roundaway Volunteer Fire Department where she is one of two female firefighters. In 2009, she joined the Indianola Volunteer Fire Department where she is the first female firefighter. Ms. Daniel's greatest satisfaction as a volunteer firefighter is knowing the benefit of saving lives, businesses, personal property, and the educating others on fire prevention and safety techniques. Her children, Claire and Clay are supportive of their mother being a firefighter and being able to fulfill her life's goal. Ms. Daniel lives her life by this motto, ``I can accomplish anything I set my mind to''. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Deleigh Daniel for her dedication to serving her community and our great country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation to improve the level of security provided by the Federal Protective Service, FPS. Formed in 1971 as the uniformed protection service for the General Service Administration, GSA, the Federal Protective Service's mission is to safeguard the Federal buildings that Americans access every day across the country. FPS is charged with protecting over 9,000 Federal facilities, including many of our own Congressional district offices. Since FPS was transferred to the Department of Homeland Security in 2003, a series of government audits have uncovered major breaches in the security services FPS provides and attributed these lapses, in large part, to slipshod oversight by the agency of its contractor workforce. One glaring example of FPS's lapses in providing security occurred in February 2011 when contract guards failed to detect explosive material that was left undetected inside the Patrick V. McNamara Federal building in Detroit for 21 days. Testifying on July 13, 2011 about this incident before the Committee on Homeland Security, the Government Accountability Office, GAO, stated that FPS needs to undertake a stronger role in overseeing contractor performance, to reevaluate its hiring and training practices for contract guards, and to implement a comprehensive risk assessment strategy. On July 24, 2012, at a subsequent Committee on Homeland Security hearing, FPS's lack of a comprehensive risk management strategy was identified as a major obstacle to FPS' ability to safeguard Federal facilities and effectively serve as the lead agency charged with coordinating infrastructure protection government-wide. Both hearings addressed the Federal Protective Service's pressing need to replace the failed Risk Assessment and Management Program, RAMP, to monitor the hours and duties performed by contract guards-- which has cost of over $41 million--with an effective tool to implement risk assessment. As an interim step, FPS has since developed the Modified Infrastructure Survey Too, MIST. Since May 2007, the Committee on Homeland Security has held five oversight hearings of FPS. Additionally, since 2008, GAO has issued seven oversight reports, at my request, on the agency that identified a wide range of challenges FPS faces in protecting Federal facilities. Among the areas for reform identified in these reports are the need for increased oversight of the contract guard program; the need for FPS to implement a risk management strategy to improve facility security; enhanced schedule and cost estimating practices to facilitate the transition of management functions; and a comprehensive approach to human capital management. The legislation I am reintroducing today: (1) seeks to increase security at Federal facilities by adding 500 more Federal Law Enforcement Officers; (2) directs FPS to intensify its monitoring of contract guards; (3) requires national minimum standards for the training and certification of contract guard staff; (4) requires that security standards for Federal facilities established by the Interagency Security Committee be implemented; (5) directs FPS to conduct a 1-year pilot program to assess whether a Federal Security Guard that is a Federal employee would do a better job protecting the highest risk Federal facilities than a contract guard; (6) requires a law enforcement presence at the highest risk Federal facilities; and (7) directs the Government Accountability Office to investigate the adequacy of the fee-based funding system utilized by FPS and determine whether it prevents the agency from fully executing its security mission. Under my legislation, the FPS' inspector corps would be increased to 1,350, thereby elevating the Federal law enforcement presence inside Federal buildings by offering ``boots on the ground'' security expertise. I strongly believe that a more robust inspector workforce would, for the first time, provide FPS with a core of specialized security personnel with the training and authority required to create long- overdue change within the entire organization. My legislation also calls for dedicated contract oversight staff to oversee the performance of contract guards; this would allow FPS inspectors focus on their security and law enforcement duties and not be bogged down in contract-management concerns. Similarly, my legislation would require a law enforcement presence at the highest risk Federal facilities, which directly addresses a gap in the current system, where contract guards, who lack arrest authority are charged with protecting high-profile Federal facilities. I introduced similar legislation in the 111th and 112th Congresses to ensure that the Federal Protective Service fulfills its responsibility to coordinate infrastructure protection across the Federal government, and to make certain that effective management procedures are implemented to hold contractors accountable for the hiring, training and certification of security guards who are charged with protecting Federal facilities. It has been 18 years since the Alfred P. Murrah building was attacked in Oklahoma City. We have been fortunate that an attack of this magnitude has not occurred against a Federal building in the intervening years. That said, we must do more to ensure that Federal buildings are secure and that the Federal Protective Service can effectively fulfill its mission. Enactment of my legislation will bring about long-overdue and necessary reforms and help FPS become the agency that Congress envisioned and the American people deserve.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable 22-year-old young man from Shaw, Mississippi. Jacques Alexander Marquis Matthews has answered the call of duty to his country and is currently serving as an active soldier in the Mississippi National Guard stationed in Afghanistan. Specialist Matthews comes from a lineage filled with military servicemen and women. His paternal grandfather, Mr. William Carter, is a Vietnam Veteran who served in the United States Air Force; his maternal uncle, Mr. James Attaway, served in the United States Marines; and his mother, Ramona Matthews, had just enlisted in the United States Army when she learned she was pregnant with her first child, Jacques. Specialist Matthews was raised in a single parent home by his mother, Ramona, along with his two younger brothers, Chauncey and Malik. Specialist Matthews understood the pain of his mother as she struggled to provide for them and the reproach of his grandparents, William and Alicestean Carter and Susie Matthews. As his mother's oldest child, much was expected of him and he wanted to fulfill those expectations. But like many other young men, what appears to be quick and easy was tempting. And sometimes he was prey to those temptations. In fact he said and I quote, ``my mother was more determined than me--for me to succeed. So, she snatched me from that wrong path and told me my life had three paths it could take and I had to choose one right then, college, military, or she was going to commit a homicide and that's all I needed to know. Needless to say, I chose the military.'' Mr. Speaker, Specialist Matthews has a litany of highlights during his military career including: In 2008: Specialist Matthews enlisted in the Mississippi National Guard. August 2008-October 2008: Specialist Matthews did his basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. October 2008: Specialist Matthews completed his basic training. He was recognized during graduation for having scored a perfect 300 on the physical fitness portion of the training. July 10, 2010-July 31, 2010: Specialist Matthews was a member of the 2089th Vertical Company, 223rd Engineer Battalion. He received the Army Achievement Medal for his Superior and Unflagging Support of his unit. November 6, 2010: Specialist Matthews was honored with the Commanders Award for scoring 297 on the Annual Army Physical Fitness Test while he was a member of the 223rd Engineer Battalion. November 7, 2010: Specialist Matthews while in the 168th Engineer Brigade received the Silver Castle Challenge Certificate of Achievement for having completed the Army Physical Fitness test with a score of 297. He was recognized for distinguishing himself by his excellent conditioning. He is truly to be commended for the accomplishment and deserving of the recognition for his sacrifice and self-discipline. May 2011: Specialist Matthews was in the 2089th Vertical Construction Company when he was honored with the Army Meritorious Achievement Medal for his selfless service, loyalty and honor, dedication and integrity as an example for all to follow for his significant contribution to the success of his unit and the Mississippi Army National Guard. October 2011-November 2011: Specialist Matthews received the Meritorious Service Award in recognition of his superior physical ability during the annual training while assigned to Detachment 1 of the 2089th Vertical Construction Company. May 7, 2012: Specialist Matthews' unit, the 2089th Vertical Construction Company, 223rd Engineer Battalion was activated to Afghanistan. I want Specialist Matthews' story to serve as one of encouragement to those who think there is no hope for change and to those who prejudge someone because of their circumstances. Specialist Matthews has expressed great interest in building an exciting career in the military answering the call at home and abroad whenever and wherever he is needed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Specialist Jacques Alexander Marquis Matthews, from the Second Congressional District of Mississippi, now serving as a member of the Mississippi National Guard currently stationed in Afghanistan. As he so proudly represents the United States, I too am proud to represent him as a Member of Congress. I wish him a continued rewarding military career and a safe return home to the United States.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, reclaiming my time, I urge my colleagues to support the bill and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. I yield to the gentlelady from Texas.