Glenn Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Pete Rickard of Strattanville, Pennsylvania, for accepting a fully qualified appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado. Pete is a student at Clarion-Limestone High School. During his time at Clarion-Limestone, Pete has been a member of the Academic Decathlon team, lettered in basketball, and active in FFA, or Future Farmers of America. He is now a senior member of the Civil Air Patrol Clarion Composite Squadron 504 and is active in the Greater Pennsylvania American Red Cross. Pete credits his success to the love and support he has received from family and friends, including Rod and Debbie Frampton, as well as his four sisters, Lucy, Ann, Katie, and Bonnie. Undoubtedly, Pete's academic success and experience with the Civil Air Patrol will serve him well as he starts this exciting new chapter at the Air Force Academy. Best wishes to Pete, and I look forward to seeing all that he achieves. Recognizing Lisa Winger

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lisa Winger of Oil City. Lisa was recently recognized by the Venango Area Chamber of Commerce as the 2020 Citizen of the Year. According to the chamber, nominees are those who, ``in the face of danger, combat adversity through feats of ingenuity, courage, or strength, and those who perform great deeds or selfless acts for the common good.'' Susan Williams, executive director of the chamber, noted nominations for Lisa mentioned her impeccable character and that she was highly respected, a leader, and selfless. Lisa works at the AseraCare Hospice, where she counsels residents and their families by providing compassion, comfort, and advice. She truly lives a life of service. Outside of her work with AseraCare, Lisa has also established an Alzheimer's support group at the Oil City YMCA, and she leads the county's Toys for Tots program. A friend of Lisa's said in her nomination that Lisa ``works tirelessly for Venango County and dedicates herself to everything she does.'' I would like to congratulate Lisa on this much-deserved recognition and thank her for her commitment to serving her community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Ethan Knarr of DuBois, Pennsylvania. Ethan recently accepted a fully qualified appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Ethan is the son of Christopher and Danielle Knarr and the grandson of Daniel and Linda Schaffer of DuBois, Leona Knarr of Troutville, and Doug Grube and the late Elizabeth Ann Grube of DuBois. As a student at DuBois Area High School, Ethan has been an active member of the National Honor Society and the cross-country team, and he served as captain of the tennis team. Outside of school, Ethan has been heavily involved in the Boy Scouts of America, having served as historian, assistant senior patrol leader, and eventually senior patrol leader of his troop. Ethan became an Eagle Scout in March 2020. I would like to thank Ethan for his commitment to service and wish him the very best as he embarks on this exciting new phase of life in Annapolis. Recognizing Pete Rickard

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my dear friend, Bill Cline, of Bradford, Pennsylvania, who passed away on December 29 at the age of 95. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Joyce, who he spent nearly 50 years with; and by daughters Terri Anne, Susan, and Mary Jo; and sons Willard and Mark. After serving in the United States Navy during World War II, Bill returned home to chase his dream of one day owning his own oil production company. He would go on to serve as the sole proprietor of Cline Oil, Incorporated for more than 60 years and remained the president of the company until his death. In 1859, Edwin Drake drilled the world's first commercial oil well in my district, making history in the energy industry. About 7 years ago, I had the pleasure of presenting Bill with the Colonel Edwin L. Drake Legendary Oilman Award to celebrate his contributions to the industry as well. Bill will be missed, and Penny and I wish his family the very best as they honor his life while mourning his loss. Rest in peace.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise to support the objection.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise this evening with a heavy heart. The violence that occurred today at the U.S. Capitol was senseless, destructive, and counter to our American values. This past Sunday, each Member of this body took an oath to uphold the United States Constitution. And while the path of least resistance, particularly following today's events, would be to remain silent, my oath to uphold the Constitution does not permit me to maintain silence. While systemic voter fraud was not something proven, we witnessed a systemic failure in the application of Pennsylvania's voting law when it comes to the 2020 general election. In late 2019, the Commonwealth revisited and modernized its election law with the bipartisan Act 77. Granted, in late 2019, the Commonwealth's legislature did not have the foresight to anticipate how COVID-19 would present challenges to voting. Despite that, it is not up to the Governor, the secretary of the Commonwealth, nor the State supreme court to unilaterally create law. The election abuses to Pennsylvania Act 77 taken by the Pennsylvania executive branch and upheld by the Pennsylvania judicial branch were clearly unconstitutional and had an obvious, if not major, impact on the 2020 election, particularly when it comes to the citizens' faith in the electoral process. Irregularities in Pennsylvania included: Uneven application of the law; ballot curing; ignoring signature validation requirements; using unsecured drop boxes; accepting ballots beyond the deadlines; and interfering with certified poll watcher access, among others. These actions were taken by the Commonwealth's Governor and secretary of state where the Pennsylvania Supreme Court circumvented the authority of the State legislature. Furthermore, the chief law officer of the Commonwealth sat idly while this process unfolded. Now, I joined many of my colleagues in Pennsylvania requesting the legislators in Harrisburg conduct an investigation and audit to ensure such negligence will be prevented in future elections. I have serious concerns about how these irregularities in the application of the Commonwealth's election laws will play in future elections. Only with equal application of law will the voters of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania have certainty in their election processes. Now, I remain committed to ensuring the voters receive an electoral system they deserve and where equal application of law is guaranteed. If our election integrity is compromised, we have failed the very voters who have sent us here to defend the Constitution. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Harris).

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remind us all of the great American Red Cross program, Holidays for Heroes, an opportunity to thank and support our military, veterans, and their families throughout this holiday season. We all look forward to gathering with family and friends and loved ones this time of year. For our servicemembers, that is a luxury that all too often is not able to happen. These men and women spend many months at a time--at times over a year and, in their service, years--away from their families. That is difficult no matter what time of year it is, but it is around the holidays their sacrifice is magnified. I would like to encourage everyone to reach out to their local Red Cross chapters to find out how to send a card, how to volunteer or get involved however they see fit to spread some holiday cheer to our heroes. Even a small gesture can brighten the holiday season for those that are deployed; a reminder that they are remembered, that they are appreciated every day, especially during this holiday season. So take a moment out of your day today to let a soldier know just how much you appreciate them.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, this week, we reached a truly incredible milestone in the fight against coronavirus. On Monday, the first COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer was administered, and today, the FDA is meeting to approve the Moderna vaccine. The timeline of vaccine development was made possible by Operation Warp Speed, and it is truly a modern medical miracle. In the 1930s, at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Jonas Salk began work on a polio vaccine. It wasn't until 1953, 23 years later, that the vaccine was successfully tested. Operation Warp Speed has helped shrink the vaccine timeline and knock down barriers in delays. To develop a safe, effective vaccine in under a year is a testament to the incredible scientific progress we have seen over the years and the refusal of scientists to surrender to this terrible virus. The marshaling of the public sector and the private sector together by President Trump has really resulted in this vaccine that we have all been desperately waiting on. The vaccine is a critical step in saving lives, saving jobs, and saving our economy. I thank President Trump for his leadership in Operation Warp Speed, and I thank all the incredible scientists, doctors, medical professionals, and the others who have helped make history.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank and congratulate Gail Langworthy, an incredibly kind and dedicated employee of mine who has served my constituents for 8 years back in the district. Gail is moving on to an exciting new phase of her life, and she is leaving our office to enjoy her retirement. When Gail isn't working hard for the people of Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District, she is an active volunteer for the Breedtown Cemetery Association in Venango County. She enjoys dancing, visiting her three grandchildren in Florida, and exploring local trails while riding bikes with her husband, Jeff. Gail has also been described as an avid thrift shop and yard sale junkie. Gail will be missed by our entire team, but I am happy for her as she begins this new adventure. Thank you, Gail, for your hard work, dedication, and service, and enjoy your retirement. Recognizing Dave Bailey on His Retirement

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Dave Bailey, who has worked for 31 years for the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer by supporting Member offices with all sorts of technology needs. Dave has been a frequent visitor to our office to help me and my staff with our computers any time that we had an issue. He also played a critical role in ensuring our office was ready to telework as we transitioned our lives online at the start of this pandemic. Simply put, we would not be able to do our jobs without people like Dave Bailey. I am disappointed that I will not be able to share my well wishes with Dave in person, but I wanted to take this opportunity to thank him for his three decades of service and for all the help that he has provided me in my office. Dave, be well, and enjoy your much-deserved retirement. COVID Vaccine

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a friend and colleague who will be retiring from Congress as the 116th Congress comes to a close. I have served with Dr. Phil Roe since we came into Congress together as classmates in 2009. Phil represents the First Congressional District of Tennessee. His pathway to Congress includes being an Eagle Scout, veteran, mayor, and medical physician, delivering more than 5,000 of his future constituents. Phil and I have sat next to each other on the House Education and Labor Committee for 12 years. We started at the very end of the seniority seating and now sit prominently as senior members. Congressman Roe has left his mark serving the American people as chair and Republican leader of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. He authored the MISSION Act, which ensures veterans have the ability to receive the best possible care now and in the future, and the Forever GI Bill, which ensures veterans won't lose access to the education benefits that they earned through their service. Madam Chair, in his own words, Congressman Phil Roe said it best: ``I'll leave Congress at the end of the year knowing that our Nation's heroes are better served today because of our work.'' Thank you, Phil. And thank you to his wife, Clarinda, and their family for sharing Phil with us. Best wishes for whatever the next chapter's adventures bring. Farewell to Congressman Greg Walden

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, in 2018, Congressman Greg Walden won his 11th term in Congress to represent Oregon's Second Congressional District. When the 116th Congress ends, he will retire after 22 years of service to our Nation. Greg graduated from the University of Oregon with a journalism degree and took over the operations of his father's radio station in Hood River--and added another--before winning his congressional seat in 1998. In 2014 and 2016, he successfully chaired the National Republican Congressional Committee. Greg served as chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce in the 115th Congress and currently serves as the Republican leader of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. Madam Speaker, I am honored to have worked with Congressman Greg Walden and share passions with him: his passion to improve forest management and lead reforms to make our Federal forests healthier, make our rural communities more financially solvent, and make our forests more resilient to climate change. To his wife, Mylene, thank you for sharing this lifelong Oregonian, Eagle Scout, and great public servant with us. Best wishes, Greg. I know you will continue to make a difference in retirement. Farewell to Congressman Rob Bishop

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a retiring leader and mentor, Congressman Rob Bishop. A public schoolteacher turned public servant, Rob Bishop represents Utah's First Congressional District in the United States Congress. I have had the privilege of serving with and under the leadership of Congressman Bishop on the Committee on Natural Resources for 8 years. First elected in 2003, Rob served as chairman of the powerful House Committee on Natural Resources and is now its ranking member. He has been a key player on many public land bills. Congressman Bishop is committed to helping Congress strike a balance for wise management of our public lands and resources. Protecting private property rights and State sovereignty and preserving the Western heritage are among his chief priorities on the committees that guided him. There is no stronger fighter to protect the livelihoods of public land users in rural America, while ensuring that we are responsible stewards of our natural resources. Madam Speaker, Congressman Rob Bishop negotiated much of the legislation included in the Natural Resources Management Act. This legislation expanded access to public lands, while also shrinking the size of the Federal estate, and provided wins for America's sportsmen, hunters, and fishermen. Thank you, Rob, for your service, your friendship, and your mentoring. Thank you, as well to his wife, Jeralynn, and his children and grandchildren for sharing Rob with us. Best wishes in the next chapter of life.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give a special shout-out to Mike Vuckovich, superintendent of the Indiana Area School District. Mike was recently recognized as one of America's Superintendents to Watch for 2020. He was one of only 24 recipients to receive this recognition and the only Pennsylvanian. Mike has been on the job just 2 years but recently was recognized by the National School Public Relations Association as a 2020 Superintendent to Watch. The organization selects superintendents from across the country who ``demonstrate dynamic, fast-paced leadership with strong communication at its core.'' This is exactly what Mike has done with his time at Indiana Area School District. Mike has been a champion for digital technology and online communication throughout the district, investments that have clearly come in handy in the age of coronavirus. The district's new website and social media accounts have been a useful tool to keep parents, teachers, and students on the same page during what has undoubtedly been a hectic and stressful school year. I thank Mike for his drive, dedication, and initiative, and I am pleased to have a leader like Mike in Indiana County.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Charles DaBella, Jr., known to his family and friends as Chuckie. Chuckie was a resident of Hastings, Cambria County, Pennsylvania. He passed away at the age of 52 this summer on June 29 after a devastating motorcycle accident. Chuckie's sister, Charlene, said: ``Chuck was an amazing soldier, brother, father, and son.'' His military legacy is one that he and his family can certainly and forever be proud of. Chuckie was a retired Army infantryman with 13 years of service. He was with the 3rd Special Forces Group, a Green Beret, senior parachutist, and Army range qualified, earning the bronze German Armed Forces Badge of Marksmanship. Chuckie was also the recipient of four Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star. The pain that comes from the loss of a loved one never truly fades, but I want the DaBella family to know that they are in my thoughts, and my prayers are with them during this incredibly difficult time. We are proud of the service and legacy that Chuckie has left. May God watch over Chuck, who left us far too soon.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank, celebrate, and congratulate my friend and colleague, Mike Conaway, who will be leaving us to enjoy his much-deserved retirement. Mr. Speaker, it has been a tremendous privilege and honor to serve under Mike's leadership throughout my time on the Committee on Agriculture, and I am grateful to have worked with such a tireless advocate for rural America. Mike's leadership on the 2018 farm bill was particularly impressive, which marked the first time in nearly 30 years that a farm bill was enacted in the same year that it was introduced. I continue to be inspired by Mike's principles in leadership outside of committee work as well. I have been lucky enough to share many Wednesday mornings with him as a brother of faith during Bible study. Mr. Speaker, I send my very best wishes to Mike and his wife, Suzanne, who has been kind enough to share him with us for over the last 16 years. I thank Mike for his friendship and guidance over the years. He will be sincerely missed.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Computer Science Education Week. In 2009, this opportunity for awareness was established to highlight the many ways computer science education benefits individuals as well as entire industries. Computer Science Education Week is a chance for students of all ages to learn about the importance and benefits of computer science and the endless professional opportunities that abound with a skills-based education. I am co-chair of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, and it has been a pleasure to work across the aisle to support important educational programs like investments in computer science. Our Nation is in desperate need of skilled workers, and career and technical education is a win-win. It can offer rewarding professional futures for learners of all ages, while simultaneously closing the Nation's skills gap. An industry that can particularly benefit from a skilled workforce, and especially those trained in computer science, is cybersecurity. H.R. 1592, the Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act, is a bill I am proud to cosponsor with my Career and Technical Education Caucus co- chair, Congressman Jim Langevin from Rhode Island. The Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act seeks to develop a critical infrastructure workforce that is well-trained to handle cyber threats from bad actors. H.R. 1592 authorizes $10 million to create a competitive grant program within the Department of Education to incorporate cybersecurity education into new and existing career and technical education programs. The bill also requires the Department of Education to coordinate with the Department of Homeland Security to better support cybersecurity education programs. COVID-19 demonstrated how much we rely on a skilled and trained workforce, and sadly, the personal lives and careers of many Americans have been uprooted as a result of the virus. Far too many people lost their jobs through no fault of their own. That is why I was eager to be an original cosponsor of H.R. 7032, the Skills Renewal Act. This legislation would help displaced workers gain new skills and advance their careers upon reentry into the workforce. The bill would create a $4,000 fully refundable skills training credit to cover a wide range of career and technical education programs. Mr. Speaker, we need a workforce that can meet modern technical demands, and students who choose a career in technical education are best suited for that challenge. Through career and technical educational programs like computer science, we can begin to close our Nation's skills gap and help individuals restore the rungs on the ladder of opportunity.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, marked the 79th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor naval base attack. On December 7, 1941, the surprise attack by the Japanese on a U.S. Naval base in Hawaii left nearly 2,500 people dead. Innocent lives were taken; members of the United States Navy, Army, Marines, as well as civilians. It remains one of the deadliest attacks in American history, often described as ``a date which will live in infamy,'' according to a quote by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Every year on December 7, we pause to reflect and remember the sacrifice made by the men and women who perished in the attack on Pearl Harbor. President Roosevelt went on to say, ``No matter how long it will take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.'' Mr. Speaker, thanks to the selflessness and sacrifice of the Greatest Generation, that is exactly what they did. God bless all of our Pearl Harbor victims, the survivors, and their families.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to enthusiastically support the Growing Opportunities in Agriculture Act, or the GO Ag Act. The GO Ag Act combines two of my passions: agriculture and career technical education. The GO Ag Act would make $5 million available through the Perkins Act to help schools launch agricultural education programs, including FFA chapters. Students learn about the agricultural industry and how it intersects with math, science, and technology. Restoring a robust rural economy depends largely upon appealing to the next generation. Investing in education is perhaps the most commonsense way to prepare individuals who are passionate about a career in agriculture for the workforce. The GO Ag Act is not only an investment in agriculture education, but also the future of our agricultural supply chain. I am proud to cosponsor this legislation because I believe investing in agriculture education is an important step in bolstering rural economies and strengthening rural communities.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a founder of the Service Organization Caucus to celebrate National Philanthropy Day, an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the many acts of kindness and service that individuals and organizations across this Nation do each day. Serving others has always been a passion of mine. From being a volunteer firefighter to being involved in scouting, I have always believed it is my duty to give back. Service plays a key role in supporting and uplifting our communities. The amazing service and philanthropic organizations across the Nation that give countless hours serving others and doing their part deserve a big thank you. I am honored to co-chair the Service Organization Caucus with my colleague and friend, Congressman Panetta of California. I encourage everyone to do their part in honor of National Philanthropy Day. To my colleagues, I invite you to join me on this service caucus where we can work together from both sides of the aisle to promote and to support our local volunteer service organizations.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize November 19, today, as Rural Health Day. Each year, the third Thursday in November is an opportunity to highlight both the challenges and the triumphs of rural healthcare. Nearly 60 million Americans call rural America home. It is a great place to live, to work, and to raise a family. To ensure the vitality and the vibrancy of rural America, investments in infrastructure, technology, and, of course, healthcare are critical. Americans in every corner of the Nation deserve access to reliable, quality healthcare, but rural America faces its own unique health challenges that need to be addressed. Long distances to the nearest hospital, many uninsured and underinsured residents, and a growing elderly population, these are just a few obstacles that rural residents face when it comes to healthcare. This year, COVID-19 has placed an incredible strain on our healthcare systems, and rural hospitals have been particularly hit hard. Telehealth has emerged as a critical tool to better serve rural communities. The pandemic has underscored the value telehealth adds to communities across the Nation, particularly in rural America. This summer, I was pleased to introduce the bipartisan Helping to Ensure Access to Local TeleHealth Act, or the HEALTH Act. The HEALTH Act seeks to extend benefits and access to this critical healthcare medium to more seniors regardless of their geographic location. As a lifetime resident of rural Pennsylvania and having spent nearly three decades as a therapist and a licensed nursing home administrator, I have been amazed how telehealth services make life easier for rural and underserved communities, particularly older Americans. The HEALTH Act will cut red tape and provide community health centers and rural health clinics the ability to offer these vital health services to their patients on a more permanent basis. Telehealth services, however, are not possible without reliable access to high-speed, uninterrupted broadband connectivity with sufficient bandwidth to be able to handle these platforms. Now, I have long been an advocate of rural broadband. Investing in the critical infrastructure needed to deliver this critical resource for all Americans must be a top priority. From telehealth to telework, content streaming to online shopping, tele-education, now, more than ever, we depend on a reliable broadband and high-speed internet connectivity for our everyday lives. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the digital divide affecting rural America has never been more apparent. In time, the coronavirus will be a thing of the past, but a national need for reliable broadband connectivity is not going anywhere. By continuing to encourage investments in broadband, we can strengthen the rural healthcare system and keep the people who call it home healthy.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and celebrate a local business in my district. The Galaxy Federal Credit Union in Franklin, Pennsylvania, is celebrating its 80th anniversary. The credit union was founded in 1940 by a dozen employees of Joy Manufacturing. For four decades, the credit union operated out of the Joy Manufacturing Factory, serving employees by helping them save and establish credit. In 1981, the credit union opened its doors to other local companies in Venango County. In 2002, it became a community credit union. The employees of Galaxy Federal Credit Union pride themselves on a ``people helping people'' approach to business. Today, Galaxy Federal Credit Union serves nearly 5,000 members, including 400 youth members. Madam Speaker, I would like to thank Linda Lusher Antonucci, as well as the employees, members, and volunteers who serve the residents of Venango County through the credit union. Congratulations on 80 years.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I thank the distinguished Republican leader of our Education and Labor Committee for yielding and for her service. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 8294, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020. Originally passed in 1937, the National Apprenticeship Act established the registered apprenticeship system that we have come to know. For more than 80 years, this system has provided many Americans with opportunities to learn tangible skills they need for high-wage, high- skill, and in-demand jobs that will lead to fulfilling careers. Most recently, we have seen interest for apprenticeships surge as more employees and small businesses are recognizing the critical role that they play in the development of a skilled workforce. This law is in desperate need of reforms that will both strengthen and expand this traditional system while empowering employers and others to pursue work-based learning innovation. As co-chair of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, I have always supported, and will continue to support, legislation that promotes skills-based education for a 21st century economy. With that being said, we must acknowledge that the registered apprenticeship system created during the Great Depression will never be suitable by itself for a modern workforce. And on this point, this bill ignores the needs of our workers and our economy now in the 21st century. The Trump administration has taken tremendous steps to grow the number of high quality apprenticeships and modernize work-based learning programs, especially through the Department of Labor's Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Programs, or IRAPS. This program is aimed to help foster continued innovation that recognizes the dignity of all work and provides another tool for apprentices to move into meaningful work in our rapidly evolving economy. Mr. Speaker, there is room for an all-of-the-above approach that both improves the registered system while also allowing for future innovation and other earn-and-learn models. However, this legislation does not change the current status quo. For that reason, I must urge my colleagues to oppose this bill. We must craft a bipartisan bill that encourages employers to innovate and develop apprenticeship programs that meet the needs of the current workplace. Employers are struggling enough with the challenges presented by COVID-19. The last thing they need is additional red tape and tenuous requirements.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marilyn Black of Oil City, Pennsylvania, and congratulate her on her retirement. I cannot possibly overstate Marilyn's impact on Oil City and the surrounding area. Marilyn served as the vice president for Heritage Development of the Oil Region Alliance of Business, Industry & Tourism for 15 years. In those 15 years, Marilyn worked tirelessly to preserve the region's heritage in some of the region's most precious historical sites, including: the Tarbell House, Neilltown Church, and Coal Oil Johnny House, just to name a few. Marilyn's hard work and dedication has not gone unnoticed. Earlier this year, Bill Moon, the mayor of Oil City, Pennsylvania, declared June 13 to be Marilyn Black Day. I think Betsy Kellner, secretary of the Oil Region Alliance's board of directors, summed it up best: ``When you look around the community at the many accomplishments that have happened, you can see Marilyn's touch.'' When Marilyn is not hard at work for the oil region, she enjoys the outdoors, spending time fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, and more. I would like to send my very best wishes to Marilyn as she begins her much-deserved retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, last week on November 11, we celebrated Veterans Day, and I rise today to thank each and every one of the men and women who have donned the uniform of the United States military; to express my gratitude for the individuals who have served to secure and protect our most precious freedoms; to acknowledge the sacrifices that these brave Americans have endured to make America the country that it is today. In the Pentagon, in the stairwell to the office of the Secretary of Defense, there is a painting of a soldier in gear ready for deployment surrounded by family at the altar of a church. Accompanying that painting is a verse of scripture from the Holy Scripture from the Book of Isaiah. And it reads: ``Who shall I send? Who will go for me?'' In the painting, that is from the Gospel and the word of God. That painting communicates that our Nation's veterans have answered that call. Recently, I was approached about cosponsoring H.R. 2350, the Ghost Army Congressional Gold Medal Act. A 16-year-old young lady named Madeline reached out to my office to share the story of her great grandfather's service. Her great grandfather served in the Ghost Army during World War II. The Ghost Army was a tactical deception unit that sought to undermine the Axis Power efforts in Germany during the war. Madeline shared with me that there are two gentlemen from my district who served in the Ghost Army, Tom Ebeling from Bradford and Claude Blake from Patton. There are many fascinating stories from the Ghost Army that were kept secret for decades after the war. It wasn't until 1996 that this information was declassified, and their bravery could be shared with us all. I would also like to mention that Veterans Day took place during National Apprenticeship Week, and this is a great opportunity to remind everyone what incredible value veterans add to our workforce. Veterans exhibit proven leadership, higher retention rates, have the ability to work well under pressure, and they have a strong work ethic. Our veterans are highly trained and highly skilled. They deserve our support while deployed and when they return home. One of the best ways to do that is to prepare them for the workforce outside of the military. I am a proud original cosponsor of the Veterans in Effective Apprenticeships Act, which instructs apprenticeship programs to account for a participant's competencies and prior experiences, including those gained during military service, among other things. Mr. Speaker, the best way to thank a veteran is to hire a veteran. The skills obtained during service are invaluable. In closing, I would like to offer my sincerest gratitude one last time to the men and women who have selflessly served our country in the United States military. They have put their lives on the line for us, and we are forever indebted to them for this sacrifice.