Tom Tancredo

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Mr. Speaker, on March 25, President Bush pardoned 15 people and granted one commutation to crimes that ranged from falsifying records, conspiracy, bank embezzlement, dealing in firearms, distributing marijuana, conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, heroin importation, selling migratory bird parts in violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, aiding and abetting the escape of a prisoner, distributing more than 50 grams of crack cocaine, and a variety of other crimes. This brings to about 157 the number of pardons and/or commutations that President Bush has distributed in his administration in his term in office. And although that number is fewer than other presidents, it in fact is reflective of something that I consider to be a serious problem, and that is this, that although the President has been compassionate or for whatever reason chosen to commute or pardon 157 people up to this point in time, he leaves two Border Patrol agents in jail today because I believe of the misbehavior of the U.S. Attorney in that particular district. And this is unconscionable. This House actually voted last session unanimously to in fact deny funding to the Department of Justice to continue to hold Border Patrol agents Ramos and Compean in the Federal prison where they have been incarcerated now for well over a year. And their terms are for 11 and 12 years. This is because they have been sentenced because of the testimony of a known drug smuggler by the name of Osvaldo Aldrete- Davila, who was given immunity from prosecution by U.S. Attorney Sutton. The SUV that Aldrete was driving was found to contain 743 pounds of marijuana. The jury in the Ramos-Compean trial was never told of Aldrete's criminal background. They were led to believe that Aldrete was a one-time smuggler trying to make money to help a sick relative. In fact, he was a professional drug smuggler, and his history was known to the DEA and to Johnny Sutton, who was the prosecuting attorney, at the time of the trial, but this history was kept from the jury. It has been revealed in documents since the trial that U.S. Attorney Johnny Sutton deliberately delayed the arrest of Aldrete for a subsequent drug smuggling incident that occurred while Aldrete was under the grant of immunity but before the trial date. All of this information, of course, was withheld because it would have revealed Aldrete as a professional smuggler, not an innocent victim of the Border Patrol agents. This is a flagrant abuse of prosecutorial discretion. These mistakes were compounded by asking for a mandatory 10-year sentence for Ramos and Compean for the use of a firearm in the commission of a ``crime.'' The law was never intended to apply to law officers who use their weapons in the performance of their jobs. The key question at the trial was whether the drug smuggler Aldrete had a weapon and had pointed it at one of the Border Patrol agents. Mr. Aldrete denied having such a weapon. It was his word against the testimony of the Border Patrol agents, so the credibility of each witness was critical to the jury's evaluation of the incident, yet the jury was kept in the dark about Aldrete's other arrests and his history as a drug smuggler. The mistakes made by Ramos and Compean in trying to apprehend Mr. Aldrete should have been handled as a violation of agency rules, the failure to write and file a report of an incident involving Aldrete, and punished by a 5-day suspension, not by criminal prosecution. For that reason alone, this conduct rises to the level of reprehensible, the conduct I believe of the U.S. Attorney in this case and of the President of the United States. To compound the injustice in this case, it is widely known that the U.S. Attorney is a friend of the President, going back to his days as Governor. But Bush's refusal to issue a pardon or a commutation amounts to a coverup I believe of this misconduct in this trial. Ramos and Compean have appealed their conviction to the U.S. Circuit Court and a decision on that appeal is due shortly. At the very least they deserve a new trial. President Bush has it within his power to end this injustice now by issuing a pardon or a commutation. I sincerely hope that he takes that responsibility seriously and offers this to Mr. Ramos and Mr. Compean, who are languishing in prison for literally no good reason.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, an article came across my desk earlier today which I believe needs and deserves the attention of this House. It is titled, ``2 Michelles, 2 Americas & Shame v. Pride.'' It was written by Michelle Malkin. She writes: ``Like Michelle Obama, I am a 'woman of color.' Like Michelle Obama, I am a working mother of two young children. Like Michelle Obama, I am member of the 13th generation of Americans born since the founding of our great Nation. ``Unlike Michelle Obama, I can't keep track of the numbers of times I have been proud--really proud--of my country since I was born and privileged to live in it. At a recent speech in Milwaukee, Mrs. Obama remarked, `For the first time in my adult lifetime, I am really proud of my country, and not just because Barack has done well, but because I think people are hungry for change.' ``Mrs. Obama's statement was met with warm applause from those who also are apparently devoid of pride in their country during their adult lifetimes. Or maybe it was a Pavlovian response to the word `change.' What a sad, empty, narcissistic, ungrateful, unthinking lot. ``I am just 7 years younger than Ms. Obama. We have grown up and lived in the same era. And yet, her self-absorbed attitude is completely foreign to me. What planet is she living on? Since when was now the only time the American people have ever been `hungry for change'? ``We were both adults when the Berlin Wall fell. That was an earth- shattering change. We lived through two decades of peaceful, if contentious, election cycles under the rule of law, which have brought about change and upheaval, both good and bad. We were adults through several launches of the space shuttle, in case you were snoozing. And as adults, we've witnessed and benefited from dizzyingly rapid advances in technology, communications, science, and medicine pioneered by American entrepreneurs who yearned to change the world and succeeded. You want `change'? Go ask the patients whose lives have been improved and extended by American pharmaceutical companies that have flourished under the best economic system in the world. ``If American ingenuity, a robust constitutional republic, and the fall of communism don't do it for you, then how about American heroism and sacrifice? How about every Memorial Day, every Veterans Day, every Independence Day, every medal of honor ceremony? Has she never attended a ``welcome home ceremony'' for the troops? For me, there is a thrill of the Blue Angels roaring over the cloudless skies, and there is the somber awe felt amid the hallowed waters that surround the sunken USS Arizona and Pearl Harbor Memorial. Every naturalization ceremony I've attended where hundreds of new Americans raise their hands to swear an oath of allegiance to this land of liberty has been a moment of pride for me, so has the awesome display of American compassion at home and around the world when millions of Americans rallied to help victims of the 2004 tsunami on Southeast Asia, including members of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group that sped from Hong Kong to assist the survivors. My heart filled with pride. It did again when the citizens of Houston opened their arms to Hurricane Katrina victims and folks across the country rushed to their churches and offices of the Salvation Army and Red Cross to volunteer. How about American resilience? Does it not make you proud? Only a heart of stone could be unmoved by the strength, the valor and determination displayed by New York, Washington, D.C. and Shanksville, Pennsylvania on September 11, 2001. I believe it was Michael Kinsley who quipped that a gaffe is when a politician tells the truth. In this case, it's what happens when an elite Democrat politician's wife says what a significant portion of her party's base really believe to be truth: America is more a source of shame than pride. Michelle Obama has achieved enormous professional success, political influence and personal acclaim in America. Ivy League educated, she's been lauded by Essence magazine as one of the 25 Most Inspiring Women, by Vanity Fair as one of the ten World's Best-Dressed Women, and named one of `The Harvard 100' most influential alumni. She has an amazingly blessed life, but you wouldn't know it from her campaign rhetoric or her griping about her and her husband's student loans. For years we've heard liberals get offended by any challenge to their patriotism. And so they are again aggrieved and rising to explain away Ms. Obama's remarks. Lady Michelle and her defenders protest too much. Madam Speaker, I am proud of America for many reasons, not the least of which is because it helped shape the character of Michelle Malkin.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. Scott Storey, District Attorney for the First Judicial District of Colorado, including Jefferson and Gilpin counties, for his recent distinction as Elected Official of the Year by the West Chamber. A native son of Colorado, Mr. Storey's recognition is just a small display of appreciation for his commitment towards upholding justice and integrity in the legal realm. Mr. Storey is a veteran prosecutor who has spent the last 20 years in public service. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in congratulating Mr. Storey for his dedicated work and promise for Coloradans.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the sacrifice of Senior Patrol Agent Luis Aguilar of the Border Patrol from Yuma, Arizona. Agent Aguilar was killed in the line of duty on January 19th while trying to apprehend a suspected drug smuggler in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area. He was 32 years old. The core values of the Border Patrol emphasize vigilance, service, and integrity in the defense of America and its laws. Those individuals who commit themselves to these principles recognize the prominence of the American way of life as well as its fragility; something that must be defended against those elements which seek to undermine democracy and freedom. Agent Aguilar spent much of his life as a guardian of these values and this Nation. Agent Aguilar began his career with the Border Patrol in 2002 when he enrolled in the 519th session of the Border Patrol Academy. Following graduation, he was stationed at the Yuma Border Patrol Station where he quickly earned the respect and loyalty of his fellow agents and the surrounding community. This tragic incident highlights not only the dangers border agents encounter, but also emphasizes the extreme heroism and valor exhibited by those whose job it is to keep Americans safe. Madam Speaker, my most heartfelt condolences go out to Luis' family and friends. He will undoubtedly be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the sacrifice of a fallen hero and Sailor from my district, Petty Officer Alexander ``Kip'' LeMarr of Parker, Colorado. Petty Officer LeMarr was tragically killed on January 16 when his helicopter crashed on a mission near the Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi, Texas. He was only 25 years old. Petty Officer LeMarr joined the Navy in 2004, becoming a qualified aviation warfare system operator. He was assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 15. He served admirably overseas in Bahrain before returning to the United States to continue his training and service.- Hundreds of sailors and members of the Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi gathered on base on January 25th to honor Petty Officer LaMarr and his colleagues. Petty Officer Hector Reyes described LeMarr as a good friend, ``Kip was the kind of person that loved to fly,'' Reyes said. Americans should never forget his service or sacrifice, and the nation will forever owe a great debt of gratitude to Alexander and his family. His life was a tribute to the best America has to offer. Madam Speaker, my most heartfelt condolences go out to Alexander's family and friends. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my constituents, Mr. Frances Trujillo of Littleton, Colorado. Mr. Trujillo is a leadership and management administrator at Colorado Academy and is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Award. This grant is given to promising individuals to aid them in their academic and cultural pursuits abroad. The Fulbright Program was established by Congress in 1946 and is sponsored by the U.S. State Department. This program was designed to help build mutual understanding between Americans and the global community. Individuals who are awarded this distinction have demonstrated outstanding academic or professional achievement and have proven themselves as leaders in their field. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to Mr. Trujillo and wishing him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my constituents, Ms. Leslie Anderson of Longmont, Colorado. Ms. Anderson is a political science student at the University of Florida and is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Award. This grant is given to promising individuals to aid them in their academic and cultural pursuits abroad. The Fulbright Program was established by Congress in 1946 and is sponsored by the U.S. State Department. This program was designed to help build mutual understanding between Americans and the global community. Individuals who are awarded this distinction have demonstrated outstanding academic or professional achievement and have proven themselves as leaders in their field. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to Ms. Anderson and wishing her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my constituents, Ms. Kirsten Ambors of Parker, Colorado. Ms. Ambors is a mathematics student at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Award. This grant is given to promising individuals to aid them in their academic and cultural pursuits abroad. The Fulbright Program was established by Congress in 1946 and is sponsored by the U.S. State Department. This program was designed to help build mutual understanding between Americans and the global community. Individuals who are awarded this distinction have demonstrated outstanding academic or professional achievement and have proven themselves as leaders in their field. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to Ms. Ambors and wishing her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my constituents, Ms. Cecilia Daniels of Castle Rock, Colorado. Ms. Daniels is a teacher of English as a foreign language at Highlands Ranch High School and is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Award. This grant is given to promising individuals to aid them in their academic and cultural pursuits abroad. The Fulbright Program was established by Congress in 1946 and is sponsored by the U.S. State Department. This program was designed to help build mutual understanding between Americans and the global community. Individuals who are awarded this distinction have demonstrated outstanding academic or professional achievement and have proven themselves as leaders in their field. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to Ms. Daniels and wishing her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my constituents, Mr. Nathaniel Campbell of Bailey, Colorado. Mr. Campbell is a literature student at Boston College and is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Award. This grant is given to promising individuals to aid them in their academic and cultural pursuits abroad. The Fulbright Program was established by Congress in 1946 and is sponsored by the U.S. State Department. This program was designed to help build mutual understanding between Americans and the global community. Individuals who are awarded this distinction have demonstrated outstanding academic or professional achievement and have proven themselves as leaders in their field. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to Mr. Campbell and wishing him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my constituents, Ms. Jane Erickson of Castle Rock, Colorado. Ms. Erickson teaches English as a foreign language while attending Hobart and William Smith Colleges and is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Award. This grant is given to promising individuals to aid them in their academic and cultural pursuits abroad. The Fulbright Program was established by Congress in 1946 and is sponsored by the U.S. State Department. This program was designed to help build mutual understanding between Americans and the global community. Individuals who are awarded this distinction have demonstrated outstanding academic or professional achievement and have proven themselves as leaders in their field. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to Ms. Erickson and wishing her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my constituents, Ms. Amanda Hilton of Castle Rock, Colorado. Ms. Hilton teaches English as a foreign language while attending Colby College and is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Award. This grant is given to promising individuals to aid them in their academic and cultural pursuits abroad. The Fulbright Program was established by Congress in 1946 and is sponsored by the U.S. State Department. This program was designed to help build mutual understanding between Americans and the global community. Individuals who are awarded this distinction have demonstrated outstanding academic or professional achievement and have proven themselves as leaders in their field. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to Ms. Hilton and wishing her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my constituents, Ms. Laura Johnson of Larkspur, Colorado. Ms. Johnson teaches English as a foreign language while attending the University of Denver and is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Award. This grant is given to promising individuals to aid them in their academic and cultural pursuits abroad. The Fulbright Program was established by Congress in 1946 and is sponsored by the U.S. State Department. This program was designed to help build mutual understanding between Americans and the global community. Individuals who are awarded this distinction have demonstrated outstanding academic or professional achievement and have proven themselves as leaders in their field. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to Ms. Johnson and wishing her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my constituents, Mr. James Long of Littleton, Colorado. Mr. Long is a student of political science at the University of California, San Diego and is a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Award. This grant is given to promising individuals to aid them in their academic and cultural pursuits abroad. The Fulbright Program was established by Congress in 1946 and is sponsored by the U.S. State Department. This program was designed to help build mutual understanding between Americans and the global community. Individuals who are awarded this distinction have demonstrated outstanding academic or professional achievement and have proven themselves as leaders in their field. Madam Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to Mr. Long and wishing him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to U.S. District Judge Phillip Figa, who passed away earlier this month at his home in Greenwood Village, Colorado after a struggle with cancer. A native of Chicago, Illinois, Judge Figa received his legal credentials from Cornell Law School in 1976 before becoming a highly- successful litigation lawyer and co-founding the Burns, Figa & Will P.C. law group, where he built a reputation for fairness and impartiality. He became Chair of the Colorado Bar Association Ethics Committee in 1984 and eventually President of the Association in 1995. In 2003 President Bush appointed Judge Figa to the U.S. District Court for Colorado where he served our nation as a fair and dedicated jurist. Colorado has lost a fine public servant with the passing of Judge Figa. Our best wishes and heartfelt condolences go out to all who knew and loved him.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ms. Tammy Dodson from Colorado's 6th Congressional District for being recognized as a finalist for the American School Counselor Association's first School Counselor of the Year award. As a former educator, I understand the constructive job counseling takes in the development of our children. The roles and responsibilities of student guidance counselors have increased over the past few decades, and so too has the quality and professionalism of their work. This month, the American School Counselor Association seeks to nationally commemorate the finest counselors our nation has to offer. Chosen by a diverse group of educational specialists and public officials, ten individuals are to receive this year's precedent award. Ms. Dodson is one of these fine individuals! As an additional honor, Ms. Dodson and her fellow finalist will have the chance to participate in a congressional briefing to discuss the role of school counselors in obtaining student achievement. I am certain the experiences and insights these accomplished individuals share will enable them to provide Members with unique and valuable insight into this area. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me today in celebrating the accomplishments of Ms. Dodson. She is a shining example of excellence in her field; may her achievements inspire others to be the same.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate an outstanding steward and teacher in my district, Mr. Daniel Uyechi of Sierra Middle School in Parker. This year, Mr. Uyechi has been awarded the title and honor of a Milken National Educator for his efforts to expand the knowledge and livelihoods of his students. His efforts have undoubtedly made positive impacts among his students, helping them lay the foundations for a successful and rewarding future. The Milken National Educator Awards are annual monetary gifts given to individual educators nationwide for their remarkable achievements both in and outside of the classroom. Chosen by an independent commission appointed by each State's department of education, these awards highlight and celebrate the successes of a handful of America's most distinguished and prominent educators. I am honored that I have the opportunity to represent one of these fine citizens. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Mr. Uyechi and wishing him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the commitment and dedication of Scott Marian of Denver, Colorado who passed away unexpectedly on October 21st, 2007. Scott was a dedicated supporter of conservative causes and candidates and dedicated his life to following a path he believed to be morally correct. He was active in politics for more than two decades including heading up a statewide initiative and running for the Colorado Legislature. Scott's career spanned from mortgage banking to owning his own business in Colorado. Scott's life was one of great success and great difficulties but he always found comfort in his faith, his family and his friends. His dedication to spiritual needs of himself and others led his Priest to say his was one of the most prepared souls to join the Heavenly Father. He was a great American, often spreading the positive attributes of capitalism and the word of God in the same breath. He inspired others to find their voice and express themselves in politics and faith. Scott leaves behind his parents Joseph and Jean Marian, as well as his brother Craig, sisters Susan, Michelle, and Cheryl and eight nieces and nephews.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, today I am honored to acknowledge the achievements of Junior Achievement of Rocky Mountain Incorporated for serving Colorado's youth attending Littleton public schools. This year, Junior Achievement is being recognized by the Colorado Association of Partners in Education for its outstanding volunteerism and academic contributions in the fields of economics and finance. Their commitment has instilled a strong sense of financial prowess and capitalist spirit within the youth of their community; a valuable asset which will undoubtedly yield great benefits in the years to come. The successful history of Junior Achievement mirrors the entrepreneurial character it strives to instill. Founded in 1919, it has grown from being an after school mentoring program to become the world's largest organization focused on educating students on the dynamics and benefits of local and global financial markets. By introducing young individuals to the values of economics, they are better prepared and responsible to establish and manage their financial and personal goals as they grow older. In addition, all Junior Achievement programs are taught by volunteers who successfully mentor roughly 8 million individuals annually. These volunteers are comprised of a myriad of experiences and backgrounds, from business professionals to college students. They instill economic knowledge and understanding in youth and reflect the importance of service to local communities; a value which my district is distinguished to have. Madam Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to have such a fine organization at work in my district. Please join me in congratulating Junior Achievement for their many successes.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the sacrifice of a fallen hero and NAVY SEAL from my district, Petty Officer Danny Phillip Dietz of Littleton, Colorado. Petty Officer Dietz was killed two years ago during combat operations in Afghanistan. On June 27, 2005, Petty Officer Dietz's four-man SEAL team was inserted into Afghanistan's remote Hindu Kush Mountains. His comrades included Petty Officer Matthew Gene Axelson of Cupertino, California, Petty Officer Marcus Luttrell of Huntsville, Texas, and Lieutenant Michael Murphy of Patchogue, New York. In the heavy fighting that followed the four men, experts not only in warfare but friends and members of a close-knit team, all faced the enemy opposition with inspiring valor and determination. Together they faced incredible odds, determined not only to do their duty but to give all that they had, each in the defense of the others. Ultimately overwhelmed, only Petty Officer Luttrell survived, and then with grievous wounds, to be rescued after several days of escape and evasion during which he continued to battle the enemy. As Navy SEALs these four men exemplify the very best of America's young men and women, many of whom continue the battle on foreign shores or serve at home to protect our homeland. As valiant warriors they serve to inspire us in understanding not only the importance of Duty, Honor, Country, but also the importance of the unity of teamwork against all odds, regardless of our differences or where we are from. Danny Dietz is not forgotten in his home town of Littleton, Colorado. This year on Independence Day, a large bronze statue was unveiled in Littleton's Berry Park to ensure that future generations will never forget his uncommon valor and selfless sacrifice. The citation awarding him the Navy Cross notes: ``Demonstrating exceptional resolve and fully understanding the gravity of the situation and his responsibility to his teammates, Petty Officer Dietz fought valiantly against the numerically superior and positionally advantaged enemy force. Remaining behind in a hailstorm of enemy fire, Petty Officer Dietz was wounded by enemy fire. Despite his injuries, he bravely fought on, valiantly defending his teammates and himself in a harrowing gunfight, until he was mortally wounded.'' Second only to the Medal of Honor, the Navy Cross is the Navy's highest award for military heroism. Since it was established in World War I it has only been awarded 6,923 times to members of the Armed Services and to only 4,544 members of the U.S. Navy. To date, in the Global War on Terrorism, 17 Marines and 6 members of the Navy have received the Navy Cross. Three of those Navy awards went to Petty Officers Dietz, Axelson, and Luttrell. In addition to the 3 Navy Crosses and 4 Purple Hearts awarded to the four men in a single action, Lieutenant Murphy was also posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. I hope that all Americans will take the time to reflect on the sacrifices of these brave men--and indeed all of those serving our Country around the world.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable woman, Dr. Marion Downs, who has dedicated her life to the service of caring for disabled children. Marion Downs is a Professor Emerita at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. Her laborious efforts and dedication have led her to publish numerous articles and lecture on the topic of hearing loss within infants. She has received copious awards including two gold medals of achievement, one from the University of Colorado and one from the University of Minnesota. In addition, her name adorns The Marion Downs National Center for Infant Hearing which was established to honor Dr. Downs and provide a venue for the continuation of her research and work. In appreciation of her accomplishments, Dr. Downs has been awarded with the Highest Recognition Award from the Department of Health and Human Services. This award is given to distinguished citizens who have made substantial life-changing advances to the physically handicapped within society. Dr. Downs has made considerable contributions towards the national screening of newborns with real or potential hearing disabilities through early detection methods. Madam Speaker, we are truly privileged to have individuals who dedicate their lives to others. Dr. Marion Downs is one such individual. It is with great pleasure that I acknowledge her and all of her outstanding achievements.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the sacrifice of a fallen hero and Marine from my district, Corpsman 2nd Class Charles Luke Milam of Littleton. Petty Officer Milam was killed on September 25 during combat operations in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan. Petty Officer Milam was killed while serving on his fourth deployment overseas; this being his first to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Since joining the Navy following his high school graduation in 1999, Charles carried on a family tradition of service to his nation. He was just 26 years old. Petty Officer Milam was assigned to the 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion of the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Camp in Lejeune, North Carolina. He attended basic training in Illinois before graduating from Naval Hospital Corps School Camp in Lejeune. He then went on to train at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center before his deployment. Charles was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico but found his home in Colorado after he moved with his family to Littleton in 1992. After graduating from Columbine High School, he pursued a lifelong ambition of serving his country by enlisting in the Navy. Petty Officer Milam was a decorated Marine and steadfast patriot; an American who honored the principles of freedom and democracy by courageously defending them from tyranny and oppression. His life, characterized by service and commitment, is a testament to the best America has to offer. Madam Speaker, my most heartfelt condolences go out to Charles's family and friends. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the National Association for Black Veterans (NABVETS) and offer my salutation to those members attending their Regional Convention in Denver Colorado this November. NABVETS has representatives in several states across the western United States, including my home state of Colorado. It is with the utmost sincerity that I wish this gathering success in discerning avenues to uphold and meet their organizational mission. Since its founding in 1969, NABVETS has made great strides in community development and advocacy by providing a myriad of services including empowerment of low-income and minority veterans and historical perseverance. NABVETS has provided support to Colorado communities over the years, and I am proud to support its continued efforts to assist Colorado's veterans. Madam Speaker, please join me in thanking them for their efforts, and conveying my best wishes for the convention.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to a gathering this fall in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania acknowledging the dedication of an outstanding group of men. This group of brave individuals served in the 709th United States Army Battalion during World War II. Their courageous efforts helped defend and preserve our country's ideals of freedom and liberty during a complex time in history. The efforts and accomplishments of these heroic individuals are numerous. They fought along side their brothers in arms at Utah Beach on D-Day, July 11th, 1944 to help liberate Europe from the suffering brought on by tyranny and oppression. The Battalion was distinguished for participating in all five European campaigns in addition, it was given the honor of a Presidential Unit Citation within the army for their services conducted in the Hurtgen Forest in November, 1944. Special recognition is also needed for the 100 comrades of the Battalion whose lives were lost during combat. Collectively, the Battalion has received numerous distinguishing honors which include Bronze Stars, Silver Stars, Purple Hearts, the Distinguished Service Cross, the British Military Cross, and the Croix de Guerre. The Battalion has courageously defended our country and helped promote the ideals and foundations of our government. I commend these men on their fearlessness and efforts and greatly acknowledge the honors they have received. Thank you Madam Speaker.

Mr. TANCREDO

Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my constituents, Ms. Sheridan Godfrey of Centennial, CO, who will attend a People to People World Leadership Forum in 2008. Her outstanding academic merits and communal involvement have laid a solid foundation of individual integrity and dedication: both characteristics of a qualified leader. I am honored to represent such a promising young woman. Created in 1956, the People to People Program is an educational travel program dedicated to fostering leadership potential in youth worldwide. People to People has helped more than 200,000 students and professionals develop their leadership skills based upon Dwight D. Eisenhower's belief that ``people can make a difference where governments cannot.'' This unique interaction and exposure will enable Ms. Godfrey to gain a greater understanding and insider's perspective of Washington, DC. Madam Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to acknowledge one of Colorado's own. Please join me in congratulating Ms. Godfrey and wishing her the best in her future endeavors.