Glenn Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the cornerstone of the American Dream. For generations, owning a home has symbolized stability, independence, and opportunity. It strengthens families, builds communities, and lays the foundation for long-term financial security. Yet, today, that dream feels out of reach for too many, especially first-time buyers, young families, and those in rural and working-class communities. Rising interest rates, limited housing supplies, and increasing costs are making it harder for Americans to put down roots. That is why we must work together across the aisle to support policies to expand access to affordable housing, invest in infrastructure, and reduce regulatory barriers that drive up costs. Homeownership shouldn't be a luxury. It should be an achievable goal for every hardworking American.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the EMS Counts Act, a bipartisan, commonsense solution to a critical and longstanding oversight in how we value our first responders. Prior to serving in Congress, I spent decades as a volunteer firefighter and EMT. I recognize and value the commitment these individuals have to their communities. Currently, the Bureau of Labor Statistics fails to count firefighter EMTs and firefighter paramedics as part of the EMS workforce, which skews the data, masks staffing shortages, complicates funding decisions, and hinders emergency preparedness. Correcting outdated classifications is important because without an accurate count of the number of EMTs, paramedics, and other emergency service providers, it creates a challenge to adequately meet the health and safety needs of our communities. Accurate workforce data is not just numbers. It is the foundation for equitable funding, targeted training, disaster responsiveness, and enhanced workplace safety. It empowers us to stand behind the men and women who respond to more than 22 million emergencies each year. Mr. Speaker, passing the EMS Counts Act is a decisive step toward recognizing and strengthening this indispensable part of our public safety infrastructure. I urge my colleagues to join me in support.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize June as Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, a time to bring attention to a disease that impacts nearly every family in America in some way. This month serves as a solemn reminder of the devastating toll Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia continue to take on our loved ones, our caregivers, and our communities. More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's today. Around the world, nearly 50 million people are facing daily struggles with this disease or related dementias. Alzheimer's is not just a health issue. It is a national crisis. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States and remains the only one in the top 10 with no known cure. There is no way to prevent it and no effective means to slow its progression. During the COVID-19 pandemic, deaths related to Alzheimer's increased by 16 percent, further underscoring the urgency for action. Behind these statistics are real people. I recently had the privilege of meeting with two advocates from my district, Maria Frank of Wellsboro and Julieanne Steinbacher of Williamsport. They came to Washington on behalf of the Alzheimer's Association to share their personal experiences and to urge continued investment in research and support for patients and caregivers. However, the Alzheimer's Association does more than just advocate for Alzheimer's, dementia patients, and their families. Through its strong network of nationwide chapters, the Alzheimer's Association invests directly in cutting-edge research, offering free, 24/7 care consultation for patients and their families. It hosts community education programs and caregiver support groups, ensuring families and patients receive the critical resources that they need. Their stories are a powerful reminder that behind every diagnosis is a family doing everything they can to hold on to moments, to dignity, and to hope. This is personal for so many of us. A diagnosis of Alzheimer's doesn't impact one individual. It affects entire families. There is hope. We have seen progress through bipartisan investment in research. Continued support for groundbreaking innovation can bring us closer to treatment and, one day, a cure. Mr. Speaker, I thank Maria and Julieanne for their tireless advocacy and commitment to this cause. This month let's support the families impacted and never stop believing in a future where Alzheimer's is no longer a devastating diagnosis but a defeated disease.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the St. Marys Area School District for launching a new agriculture education curriculum, an investment in both their students and the future of our Nation's food system. Agricultural education is not just for those in rural areas. It is foundational to the future of our economy, environment, and our national security. Programs like this one help students understand where their food comes from, how it is produced, and the science and technology driving modern agriculture. Beginning next school year, St. Marys will offer ag curriculum starting in seventh grade and extending through high school. Already nearly 100 students have signed up, proof that our young people are eager to learn more about the science, innovation, and business behind agriculture. As chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, I applaud this effort. It is exactly the kind of hands-on, forward-thinking program we need to develop the next generation of farmers, scientists, and entrepreneurs. Agriculture puts food on our tables, clothes on our backs, and fuel in our vehicles. Programs like this ensure it continues to do so for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I commend the leadership, educators, and students of St. Marys for their vision, and I look forward to seeing the impact of this outstanding program.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Leechburg Rotary Club on an incredible milestone, 100 years of dedicated service to their community. Since receiving their charter in 1925, the Leechburg Rotary has been a pillar of civic engagement, compassion, and leadership in Armstrong County. From their very first project of placing Bibles in hotel rooms to helping pave Canal Street, building a new bridge over the Kiskiminetas River, and championing the creation of a high school band in the 1930s, the Leechburg Rotary has always stepped up to improve life for their neighbors. Whether it is supporting veterans or assisting children with disabilities or flipping pancakes for a good cause, generations after generations of Rotarians have kept the spirit of service alive. The Leechburg Rotary Club has helped build more than infrastructure. They built a sense of community, and for that we are grateful. Mr. Speaker, I again congratulate Leechburg Rotary on a century of service.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding group of students from Wellsboro, Pennsylvania. The team from Rock L. Butler Middle School recently placed fifth in the Nation in this year's Capitol Hill Challenge, a remarkable achievement. The 16-week financial education competition brings together thousands of student teams from across the country, each tasked with investing a hypothetical $100,000 in the stock market. The goal: to learn the fundamentals of financial literacy, teamwork, and long-term investing. Competing against students from every congressional district, the Rock L. Butler team stood out not only for their strong returns but for their discipline, collaboration, and commitment to learning. Their performance reflects the dedication of their teachers and the support of the Wellsboro community. I had the pleasure of meeting these students during their visit to Washington, and I can confidently say the future is in good hands. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Rock L. Butler Middle School team on this incredible accomplishment.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, happy National Dairy Month. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of this occasion of National Dairy Month and to honor the hardworking men and women of America's dairy industry, especially those in my home State of Pennsylvania. As the Representative of Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District and as chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, I know firsthand the central role that dairy plays in our economy, our communities, and our health. Pennsylvania is an incredible dairy State. With more than 6,200 dairy farms, we rank second in the Nation in the number of dairy operations and eighth in milk production. These farms care for nearly one-half million dairy cows and support more than 52,000 jobs, generating $14.7 billion annually for our State's economy. It is important that in addition to recognizing the success and strength of this industry, we also acknowledge the challenges it takes to produce the dairy products that we all know and love. Rising costs, outdated Federal regulations, and policies that don't reflect the realities on the ground have all hurt this vital industry. That is why we must continue to fight for a modernized farm bill and for smart bipartisan policies that promote health and strengthen rural communities. In addition, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act we passed out of the House included key victories for our dairy producers. The bill contains multiple enhancements to the Dairy Margin Coverage program such as increasing tier 1 eligibility from 5 million to 6 million pounds per farm, among other items. One of those bipartisan policies is the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act which I proudly introduced alongside my colleague, Representative Kim Schrier, a pediatrician, and a bipartisan coalition in both Chambers of Congress. This bill is about returning whole and reduced fat milk to school cafeterias. It reflects updated science, addresses years of flawed Federal policy, and responds to what parents, schools, and health professionals across the country already know: Kids need access to milk that they will actually drink. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., has also voiced support for returning whole milk to school cafeterias. He recognizes its value as a nutrient-rich option that supports child development and academic success. Milk provides 13 essential nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, and potassium. These nutrients support bone health, immune function, and long-term well-being. However, today nearly three in four school- age children are not getting their recommended daily intake of dairy. Since whole milk was removed from schools in 2012, we have seen declines in milk consumption, increased food waste, and growing concerns about childhood nutrition. This legislation is a commonsense solution that simply gives schools the option to serve whole and reduced fat milk once again. I am pleased to report that the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act has already made significant bipartisan progress. It has passed the House Committee on Education and Workforce and most recently the Senate Agriculture Committee with strong support from both sides of the aisle. With over 300 votes in the House last Congress, this bill is ready to cross the finish line. Let me be clear. This is a win for everyone involved. It supports our children's health and gives a boost to our Nation's dairy farmers who work hard every day to provide safe, nutritious products. Mr. Speaker, National Dairy Month is not just a moment of recognition. It is a call to action to stand with rural America, invest in the next generation, and ensure our food policies are rooted in science and not bureaucracy. Let's finish the work we have started. Let's pass the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act. Let's deliver for our farmers, and let's keep making American agriculture stronger, healthier, and, yes, great once again.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today ahead of June 14th to celebrate an extraordinary milestone, the United States Army's 250th birthday. Every year, just a few weeks after Memorial Day, our country celebrates our Army's birthday. This marks the anniversary in 1775 when the Continental Congress authorized the establishment of the Continental Army to defend the 13 American Colonies. It was the beginning of a force that would go on to secure our freedom, shape our Nation's history, and stand as a pillar of strength in times of war and peace. As the oldest and largest branch of our Armed Forces, the U.S. Army has played a central role in defending our Nation, upholding our values, and advancing peace around the globe. For 250 years, generations of soldiers have answered the call of duty using the Army's values: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. Mr. Speaker, as a proud Army dad, I know the sacrifices made by our servicemembers and their families. In Congress, I remain committed to supporting legislation that strengthens our national defense and honors the men and women who wear the uniform. Mr. Speaker, I wish a happy 250th birthday to the United States Army. May their legacy of service continue for generations to come.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the exceptional artistic talent of Emma Zacherl, a sophomore at Clarion-Limestone High School and this year's winner of the Congressional Art Competition for Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District. Since its inception in 1982, the Congressional Art Competition has offered a platform for young artists across the country to showcase their creativity. More than 650,000 students have participated nationwide, and I am proud to say that this year's winning entry from our district is a stunning example of that legacy. Emma's piece, ``Waiting,'' a painting created using water-mixable oils, will soon hang in the U.S. Capitol along with winning entries from across the country. For an entire year, thousands of visitors, guests, and Members of Congress will have the opportunity to view her artwork. This marks Emma's second time taking first place in our district's competition, an incredible achievement that speaks volumes about her talent, vision, and dedication to her craft. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to welcome her to Washington, D.C., and look forward to all she will accomplish in the years ahead. Congratulations to Emma and to all the students who participated in this year's competition.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the incredible athletes, volunteers, and supporters of the 2025 Special Olympics Pennsylvania Summer Games. This past weekend, more than 2,000 athletes from across the Commonwealth gathered at Penn State University in State College to compete, connect, and inspire. Held on campus for over three decades, the Summer Games have become a cherished tradition built on courage, inclusion, and perseverance. Since the first Games in 1970, which featured just 135 athletes, Special Olympics Pennsylvania has grown into a statewide movement with 54 local programs and thousands of participants. These Games are not just about sports. They are about unlocking potential, building confidence, and fostering friendships that last a lifetime. This year's opening ceremonies at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, hosted in partnership with the State College Spikes, featured the iconic Olympic torch lighting and an exhilarating action sports demo, setting the tone for a weekend of achievement and joy. This program touches countless people in numerous ways and impacts regions far beyond the sphere of sports. Mr. Speaker, I commend every athlete, coach, family member, and volunteer whose dedication made this celebration possible.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding achievements of the PennWest Clarion Small Business Development Center, which was recently honored at the 2025 Pennsylvania SBDC Growth Conference. Not only was PennWest Clarion SBDC named the 2025 Outstanding Center of the Year, but three members of the exceptional team were recognized for their leadership and their dedication. Cindy Nellis was named the 2025 Director of the Year, honoring her visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to the network's mission. Cindy's guidance has empowered both her team and the entrepreneurs that they serve. Jeanne Best received the 2025 Administrative Service Award for her excellence behind the scenes, ensuring operations run smoothly. Aleshia Marshall earned the highest honor in the SBDC system: The 2025 State Star Award, recognizing her outstanding performance, deep community engagement, and unwavering support for small businesses across the Nation. PennWest Clarion SBDC continues to be a significant force for growth, innovation, and local prosperity. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the entire team on their well-deserved recognition and continued service to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the upcoming National Trails Day, a celebration of America's vast and scenic trail system. June 7 is National Trails Day, a call to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds us. I am especially proud to highlight a true gem in my district, the Trails at Jakes Rocks, located in the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds. This stunning trail system was named Pennsylvania's 2024 Trail of the Year and for good reason. It offers world-class mountain biking and breathtaking views across the Allegheny National Forest, welcoming everyone from beginners to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. In today's digital world, our trails remind us of the value of unplugging and reconnecting with nature, with one another, and with ourselves. Trails like Jakes Rocks are more than just pathways. They are investments in public health, economic development, and quality of life. Mr. Speaker, I thank the volunteers, local leaders, and outdoor enthusiasts who have made this trail possible.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 81st anniversary of the Allied D-Day invasion of France. Tomorrow, we solemnly commemorate this momentous day and honor the extraordinary bravery of our Armed Forces who took part in that historic operation. On June 6, 1944, 81 years ago, thousands of America's finest stormed the beaches of Normandy to defend the freedoms and liberties that we hold dear. They faced insurmountable odds yet pushed forward with courage, conviction, and an unwavering sense of duty. On that day, the United States lost more than 6,000 soldiers. In the weeks and months that followed, countless more gave their lives liberating Western Europe from tyranny. Their sacrifice turned the tide of World War II and reshaped the course of history. The D-Day invasion marked a critical turning point. Allied forces banded together in one of the most ambitious military operations ever attempted. Our troops faced the terrifying unknown and prevailed. They left lasting impressions, not only on the war-torn landscapes that they crossed but on the hearts of a grateful Nation. In 2018, I had the honor of attending the wreath-laying ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery in France. Standing on those hallowed grounds gazing upon the white crosses, many marking brothers buried beside brothers, fathers beside sons, I was reminded that freedom really is never free. That cemetery is more than a memorial. It is a symbol of American resolve, our willingness to stand for liberty not just at home but for people across the globe. Today, I recognize heroes from Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District who stormed the beaches on D-Day. One such hero was Elmer DeLucia of Bradford, McKean County. He served with the 81st Chemical Mortar Battalion and landed at Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944. He went on to fight in four major campaigns: Northern France, the Ardennes, the Rhineland, and Central Europe. Mr. DeLucia passed away in 2022 at the age of 99. After the war, he spent years sharing his experiences with students and community members, ensuring that the lessons of history were never forgotten. We also honor the 347 Pennsylvanians who gave their lives on D-Day, including 31 from Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District. Their sacrifices are woven into the fabric of our communities and our Nation. Mr. Speaker, let us pause to remember and honor those who gave so much for the cause of freedom. Let us celebrate the heroism of all our servicemembers, past and present. For the good of the many, a courageous few gave everything. Today, we speak their names with pride, remember their sacrifices with reverence, and celebrate their legacy with gratitude. May we always honor their heroism. God bless our troops, and God bless our great Nation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 100th anniversary of Bradford Area High School in Bradford, Pennsylvania, a century of shaping minds, building character, and strengthening community. Since its founding, BAHS has educated generations of families-- grandparents, parents, and now children walking in the same halls, learning from the same dedicated teachers who often return to serve their own alma mater. It is not just a school. It is a legacy. Recently, the community came together to celebrate this proud history. Alumni joined current students in the auditorium to perform the school's fight song, bridging the past and present in harmony. Displays throughout the school showcased 100 years of photos, uniforms, and memories, alongside a 1926 time capsule containing a Bible, a local newspaper, and a silver peace dollar. Mr. Speaker, Bradford Area High School is more than just a structure. It is a pillar of the community, and it will continue to shape future generations for the next 100 years.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize United Way of the Bradford Area as they celebrate 100 years of dedicated service to our community. Since 1925, the United Way chapter has been a driving force in improving lives across McKean and Potter Counties. From supporting food pantries and emergency shelters to investing in youth mentorship, mental health resources, and financial literacy programs, they have touched every corner of our community. Their commitment to education, health, and financial stability ensures that families in need are never alone. The United Way brings people together, nonprofits, businesses, volunteers, and donors, with the common goal to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities worldwide to advance a common good. They have proven time and time again that when a community unites, anything is possible. Mr. Speaker, I thank the staff; the board members; the partner agencies; and countless volunteers for their compassion, leadership, and hard work which have made our region a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Congratulations to the United Way of the Bradford Area on a century of service.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate several military academy appointments. Lucas Gaston of Brookville, Pennsylvania, has recently accepted a fully qualified appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Lucas is the son of Becky and Mike Gaston and the grandson of Hazel and Joe Gaston, as well as Nancy and Ted Fox of Brookville. As a student of Brookville Area High School, Lucas is active in the classroom and on the athletic field and throughout his community. Lucas is serving as the secretary of his class. He is a track and field and golf athlete. He participates in concert and marching band, and he is a Special Olympics volunteer and a member of the National Honor Society. I thank Lucas for his commitment to service and wish him the very best of luck as he embarks on this exciting new phase of life at West Point. Congratulating Bryony Shipe

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Bryony Shipe of Ford City, Pennsylvania. Bryony recently accepted a fully qualified appointment to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York. She is the daughter of Amanda and Lucas Shipe and the granddaughter of Kathie and Dave Olinger, as well as Patty and Larry Shipe. Bryony is a senior at Commonwealth Charter Academy and is an excellent example of a well-rounded student and active community member. Bryony is an active volunteer and tutors at a local education center. She is a varsity athlete in cross-country and swimming, and she is co-captain of the varsity swimming and diving team. Her focus on service to others is an extremely valuable attribute that will contribute to her military career at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. I offer Bryony best wishes at Kings Point, and I look forward to seeing all that she achieves. Congratulating Archie Walker

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Archie Walker of Lock Haven, Pennsylvania. Archie accepted a fully qualified appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Archie is a senior at Central Mountain High School. She is the daughter of Jennifer and Greg Walker. Archie is an accomplished young woman, striving to make a difference in her country. Walker is currently serving as the vice president of the Rotary Club. She is a 3-year varsity athlete in soccer, a dual-enrollment student at Commonwealth University, and a member of the National Honor Society. Walker has proven herself on the field and in the classroom. I have no doubt that her determination will serve her well at the military academy, and I wish her the very best in this next chapter. Congratulating Adam Bell

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Adam Bell of State College, Pennsylvania. Adam accepted a fully qualified appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Adam is the son of Elizabeth and Jayce Bell, the grandson of E. Ann Wortman and the late Jerry Wortman, as well as Janie and Roy Bell. As a student at State College Area High School, Bell is involved in his high school's culinary program and has represented his school in competitions. He is a varsity athlete in three sports, diving, wrestling, and track, and participates in Model U.N. Whether in the kitchen, on the field, or in the classroom, Adam excels in every area. Bell will continue his athletic pursuits while at the Naval Academy as a pole vaulter for USNA's track and field team. His drive for success will help him excel at the Naval Academy. I wish Adam good luck as he begins the next chapter of his life as a midshipman and student athlete in Annapolis. Mr. Speaker, it was an honor to nominate these young students. Their dedication to serving our country is inspirational. I look forward to seeing their successes in the years to come. Mr. Speaker, I thank them all again for their commitment to our Nation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Corporal Glenn Hodak of Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania. Corporal Hodak served as a tail gunner with the 93rd Bombardment Squadron, 19th Bombardment Group during World War II. On March 10, 1945, his B-29 Superfortress was shot down during a mission to Tokyo. Initially reported missing in action, he was later found to have been captured and tragically perished in the Tokyo prison fire on May 26, 1945. His remains were not identified after the war and were interred as an unknown in the Manila American Cemetery. In 2022, Corporal Hodak and 38 others who died in the prison fire were disinterred and transferred to the Department of Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. On September 25, 2024, Corporal Hodak was positively identified through dental and anthropological analysis. On May 16, his remains were finally returned home and laid to rest in Youngsville with full military honors. Mr. Speaker, we continue to mourn those lost in past conflicts and remain forever grateful for their service and sacrifice. My prayers are with Corporal Hodak's family during this solemn time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize National EMS Week. Since 1974, we have set time aside each year to honor the critical work of our Nation's emergency medical services professionals. These brave men and women are often the first line of defense in moments of crisis, responding to emergencies with speed, skill, and selflessness. Whether it is an accident on a rural road or a medical emergency in a busy town center, EMS professionals are there to ensure that help arrives when it is needed most. These individuals provide more than just medical assistance. They offer calm in chaos, hope in despair, and lifesaving care under pressure. They work long hours, often in physically and emotionally demanding environments, yet continue to serve with unwavering dedication. The job requires technical skills, physical strength, deep compassion, and a calling to serve others. EMS providers are vital to maintaining the health and safety of the public, especially in rural communities like my district, where resources can be limited and the stakes are high. As someone who has spent more than three decades on the front lines as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, I have seen firsthand the extraordinary courage and commitment of EMS personnel. I have been privileged to work alongside them during some of the most challenging moments a person or community can face. I can say with certainty that these professionals are heroes in every sense of the word. Here in Pennsylvania, we are especially proud to recognize one of our own. Chief Fred Ferguson of Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services was recently named the recipient of the 2025 Pennsylvania EMS Educator of the Year Award. This prestigious honor is awarded to an EMS educator who has demonstrated excellence in preparing the next generation of emergency responders. Chief Ferguson has more than 30 years of experience as a paramedic. He holds multiple instructor certifications, including basic life support, pediatric advanced life support, advanced cardiac life support, Stop the Bleed, and first aid. Throughout his career, Chief Ferguson has trained thousands of students, instilling in them the knowledge, skill, and integrity that the profession demands. Chief Ferguson's impact extends beyond the classroom. He was recently appointed EMS Chief at Moshannon Valley EMS, where he continues to lead with distinction. In 2019, he was also honored with the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health Community Star Award, recognizing his contributions to improving rural healthcare. Chief Ferguson holds a bachelor's of science in microbiology from Penn State University and multiple degrees in emergency medicine, underscoring his deep commitment to both science and service. Mr. Speaker, National EMS Week is about more than recognition. It is about gratitude. It is about coming together as a nation to thank the EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers, trainers, and supervisors who stand ready every day and every night and in every corner of this country. I congratulate Chief Ferguson and thank every EMS professional for their courage, care, and commitment to saving lives. America is stronger, safer, and more resilient because of them.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of American Red Cross Founder's Day. Today, we recognize an institution that has been a pillar of compassion and service for over 140 years. Founded by Clara Barton in 1881, the American Red Cross has answered the call to serve on battlefields, after natural disasters, and in our local communities. From its earliest days, it has brought comfort and relief to those facing life's most difficult moments. Today, the Red Cross continues that legacy by delivering disaster relief, supporting military families, and offering health and safety training. They run one of the world's largest blood donation networks, supplying more than 40 percent of our Nation's blood products. Every 2 seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Yet only a small percentage of eligible donors give. That is why on this founder's day, I encourage every eligible American to consider donating blood or plasma. That generosity could mean a second chance at life for someone. Mr. Speaker, we honor the Red Cross' enduring mission today and every day.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that will halt the largest tax increase on American families, bolster our hardworking farmers and rural communities, and give President Trump the tools he needs to make America safe again. The Agriculture Committee was tasked with $230 billion in net deficit reduction. I am proud to say that we exceeded that instruction. We achieved these savings for America's taxpayers by restoring integrity to the SNAP program, reinforcing work, rooting out waste, and ending the unchecked overreach by States and the executive branch that has driven costs through the roof. SNAP is the only State-administered welfare program that does not have a cost-share component. While the Federal Government funds 100 percent of the benefit, States are tasked with operating it. The only problem is that they aren't operating it well. In 2023 alone, over $13 billion in improper payments were made. That is not just a slap in the face of taxpayers but of the needy families who rely on SNAP, as well. We don't just stop at restoring the SNAP program to its original intent. We are also delivering big wins for rural America by shoring up the safety net for farmers and ranchers and providing critical tax relief. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act makes permanent and expands the Trump tax cuts. It also prevents the death tax from hitting over 2 million family farms. It locks in the small business deduction, helping 98 percent of American farms stay afloat. It expands immediate expensing so farmers can expense the tools that they use today to secure the harvests of tomorrow. It protects domestic biofuels from being crowded out by Chinese imports. It lowers the cost of borrowing for our farmers hit by Biden's sky-high interest rates. It reduces regulatory burdens on small farmers hiring seasonal workers. In short, this bill secures the safety net our farmers deserve and delivers to SNAP the accountability taxpayers demand. America's farmers, ranchers, and rural communities sent us here to fight for them, and the one big, beautiful bill delivers on that mandate.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May as Wildfire Awareness Month. For many States and regions around the Nation, our forests play a critical role in supporting communities and the rural economy. Our Nation's forests provide us with homegrown timber, essential for wood products, such as lumber, flooring, furniture, pulp and paper, biomass, and so much more. The U.S. forest products industry employs more than 925,000 Americans, generating a payroll of nearly $80 billion nationwide. Harvest on national forestland is also critical for supporting rural school districts through county payments derived from timber sales. Our forests also provide countless recreational opportunities, such as camping, hiking, fishing, and many other activities available in the great outdoors. However, many of our Federal forestlands remain unhealthy and continue to be at risk of catastrophic wildfire due to severe overgrowth and decades of mismanagement. Consequently, the United States has continued to see some of the largest and most intense wildfires in history over the past few decades. During that time, these incredibly destructive wildfires have led to significant property loss; recovery costs; and, in some cases, the loss of human life. I visited some of the afflicted areas, including Paradise, California, where the devastating Camp fire occurred in 2018. It is our responsibility as elected officials to do everything that we can to make sure that tragedies like this do not occur again. Wildfires are truly an urgent crisis that must be immediately addressed, and Congress must do more to better support the Forest Service, our firefighters, and rural communities in forested areas. Between 2013 and 2022, we saw an average of 61,000 wildfires annually with an average of 7.2 million acres impacted each year. So far this year, we have seen more than 25,000 wildfire incidents with more than 1 million acres burned before fire season ever began. The wildfires we witnessed in Los Angeles this year were just the latest reminder of the devastation that can occur when we don't proactively manage our forests and do everything possible to prevent them from breaking out in the first place. Make no mistake that the wildfire crisis is just that, a crisis that must urgently be addressed. The good news is that, with the right management, we can do so much more to improve the health of our forests and combat the wildfire and forest health crisis head-on. This means using all of the tools in the toolbox. That includes mechanical thinning, prescribed fire, and cross-boundary authorities. That also includes expanded use of good neighbor agreements, stewardship contracts, and other innovative agreements to maximize management possibilities through partnerships between stakeholders, private forest owners, Tribes, and local, State, and Federal Government. Mr. Speaker, I am proud of the forestry title that passed out of the Agriculture Committee last year which was crafted to expand those tools and authorities and encourage the Forest Service to do more productive management. Such reforms will enable the agency to improve forest health, reduce the threat of wildfire, increase the pace and scale of restoration, and ultimately protect communities, property, and lives. Many of these concepts can be found in the Fix Our Forests Act, which was passed on a bipartisan basis this past January. Additionally, I applaud the recent actions by the Trump administration to dramatically scale up the management across the National Forest System. Encouraging this ramp-up will enable the Forest Service to better manage, support local counties and economies through increased sustainable harvest levels, address invasive species and forest health, and ultimately reduce the severity and instances of wildfires. During this Wildfire Awareness Month, it is important that Members understand the great challenges that our Nation has with wildfire and that there are many steps that the Federal Government can take to proactively mitigate it. Perhaps most importantly, we must also recognize the dedication and sacrifices of our wildland firefighters to act when disaster strikes and keep communities safe. Mr. Speaker, I thank our firefighters, first responders, and all who are working to confront this crisis as we recognize Wildfire Awareness Month.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Military Appreciation Month. This month, we pause to honor the brave men and women of our Armed Forces, past and present, who have worn the uniform of the United States of America. Our military has stood for freedom throughout our history in times of peace and peril. They do not ask for recognition. They do not serve for applause. They serve because they believe in something bigger than themselves. They serve out of duty, honor, and love of country. This month is to remember our POWs and MIAs, to support our Gold Star families, to stand with our veterans, and to thank those currently serving. Mr. Speaker, we stand by our veterans, and we reaffirm our duty to provide our servicemembers with the support they have earned, both in uniform and after. May God protect our servicemembers and their families this month and every month. We honor and thank them. We will never forget their service and their sacrifice.