Eugene Vindman

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Mr. Lewis Brown--an exceptional scholar from my district. He is a rising senior at Gar-Field High School located in Woodbridge, Virginia. He is currently studying the extraction of bioethanol from crawfish and lobster shells, which is an innovative way to turn biological waste into renewable energy. He shared his work with my office showing the shells of crustaceans such as crawfish, lobsters, shrimp, and crabs are rich in chitin, a long-chain polymer that is one of the most abundant biopolymers. His work highlights both scientific curiosity and a commitment to sustainability. But Lewis's dedication doesn't stop with his own education. He has also developed a virtual tutorial program through the MST (Math, Science, and Technology) initiative, where he mentors fellow students in biology, chemistry, math, and English. His passion for teaching and uplifting others reflects true leadership, service, and a deep commitment to both science and community. He is also an active member of several prestigious organizations, including the National Honor Society, the American Industrial Hygiene Association, the American Chemical Society, and the Society of Toxicology. His dedication to academic excellence and scientific advancement is clear. Mr. Speaker, I want to personally thank Lewis Brown for his remarkable contributions to environmental science, his commitment to education, and his vision for a more sustainable future. There is no doubt in my mind that he will go on to do great things in research, in government service, and as an educator and innovator.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate my constituent of the week, Dale Sisson, on his retirement from the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division. A native of King George, Mr. Sisson has dedicated his career to his community. In addition to his membership in the Senior Executive Service, Mr. Sisson has a career at Dahlgren that spans 21 years. He has a variety of responsibilities, working his way up to the position of technical director where he has managed over 5,000 workers and a multibillion-dollar portfolio. Much of that work that Mr. Sisson does is classified and, therefore, cannot be publicly recognized. As a 25-year veteran, I know Mr. Sisson's work has safeguarded our country and servicemembers. Public servants like Mr. Sisson have always had the backs of our communities, and I am committed to paying this forward in Congress Mr. Speaker, I extend my deepest gratitude to Mr. Sisson for his service to our country and wish him well on his next chapter.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, as the vice ranking member of the Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee of the House Committee on Agriculture, I rise today in support of both the CLARITY and GENIUS Acts. These bills aren't perfect, but digital innovation is critical to our economy, and I support a regulatory framework that protects consumers in the financial system. However, I am concerned about the ability of certain officials to use these assets for self-enrichment at the highest levels of our government. These bills ensure Members of Congress and many other government officials must abide by ethics rules that we expect from government officials, allowing the industry to innovate as it should. Two individuals are exempted, the President and Vice President. This is incredibly dangerous, and it undermines confidence in this important industry. It also further degrades the public trust in our government, especially at a time when that trust is already eroded by the President's refusal to release the Epstein files. We need to take important steps to establish a regulatory framework for digital assets to thrive and to restore public trust. We need action now, and I hope we can close these loopholes.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Mr. Charles Jameson of Culpeper County, Virginia--a veteran, educator, historian, and lifelong servant to our community. Although his education, military service and extensive career took him all over, Mr. Jameson, has remained a lifelong resident of Culpeper and still lives across the street from his childhood home. He began his journey at George Washington Carver Regional High School, where he and many other African American students from Culpeper, Orange, Madison, and Rappahannock counties were educated during segregation. He went on to attend Virginia Union University before transferring to Virginia Commonwealth University, where he earned his degree in 1970 in pursuit of his lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. However, before he could begin his teaching career, Mr. Jameson was drafted into the U.S. Army and deployed to Vietnam, where he served with honor and distinction. He received advanced artillery training and was awarded for his courage and three Bronze Star Medals, a Purple Heart, and two Army Commendation Medals. Before returning home, he joined his father, Saint Jameson, in the construction business. When his father retired, Charles took over his role, eventually rising to the position of Project Superintendent and later construction manager. After nearly four decades in the field, he retired in 2010. In retirement, Mr. Jameson redirected his time and energy into meaningful community service, becoming a driving force behind numerous local initiatives. He worked closely with fellow Carver High School alumni on scholarship programs, served on the boards of the Carver 4- County Museum and the Museum of Culpeper History, and played an active role in organizations such as the Carver Agriculture Research Board, the Culpeper Minutemen, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). He also holds a leadership position in the local chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, where he helps organize Culpeper's annual July 4th Patriotic Presentation--an event that honors the region's rich historical legacy. His extensive service and leadership have earned him numerous accolades, including the Culpeper Colonel Award, the MLK Dreamkeeper Award, Aging Together's 5 Over 50 Award, the NAACP Activism Award, and the Neighborhood Watch Amazing Citizen Award. I want to personally thank Mr. Jameson for his lifelong dedication to service, education, and the preservation of our shared history. Today, he continues that legacy by focusing on his extensive research into African American participation in the Revolutionary War. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues join me in recognizing an extraordinary citizen in my district, Mr. Charles Jameson, for his unwavering commitment to our community.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the exceptional work of the Marine Corps Attack Drone Team based in Quantico, Virginia, for their groundbreaking achievement in conducting the first-ever armed First-Person View (FPV) kinetic strike demonstration by the Marines in the continental United States. This milestone event took place during a live-fire exercise on April 25, 2025. These Devil Dogs used a leading-edge FPV drone integrated with an anti-personnel fragmentation payload, which can support other modular payloads, which exhibited the flexible and scalable solution in contemporary warfare our military urgently requires. The results were impressive. The drone engaged and neutralized every target in the strike zone, illustrating not only the technical effectiveness of the platform, but its immense strategic value in high- risk, operational environments. This capability comes at a time when global conflict is redefining how wars are fought. Today, over 70 percent of the causalities in Ukraine are from these types of drones. The recent coordinated drone strikes carried out by Ukraine against Russian military infrastructure are a clear signal: low-cost, highly adaptable drones are reshaping the modern battlefield. America must be prepared. This demonstration by our Marines shows we are not just responding, but leading. As we scale up our investment in unmanned systems, we must prioritize solutions that are fast, flexible, and affordable. By equipping our Armed forces with reliable, mission-ready tools that can be rapidly deployed and continuously improved, we will maintain both deterrence and dominance. The Marines at Quantico are proving that innovation doesn't require complexity or high cost; rather, it requires bold thinking and dedicated execution. After 25 years in the Army, I recognize the uniquely critical importance of innovation, readiness, and a steadfast commitment to success. These Marines modeled all of that and more. Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join me in commending these Marines for their bravery, professionalism, and pioneering accomplishments with respect to operational drone warfare. Their service is indicative of an evolving, strong, and adaptable U.S. military and I hope they serve as an inspiration to all Americans.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the Epsilon Sigma Boule of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, based in Prince William County, Virginia. Since its founding on June 13, 2015, Epsilon Sigma Boule has exemplified the highest standards of leadership, scholarship, and community service. Sigma Pi Phi, also known as the Boule, is the oldest Black Greek- letter fraternity, established in 1904 to provide a space for African American men of professional distinction at a time when few such outlets existed. Its legacy includes names etched into the very fabric of American history--W.E.B. Du Bois, Martin Luther King, Jr., Arthur Ashe, Whitney Young, and so many others whose contributions have shaped our Nation. Today, its ranks continue to include influential leaders such as Representatives James Clyburn, Bobby Scott, Emanuel Cleaver, and Senator Raphael Warnock. The Epsilon Sigma Boule of Sigma Pi Phi was established to advance this rich legacy in Northern Virginia. Its members are African American men of accomplishment and service, representing diverse professions and industries. Together, they have embodied the Fraternity's founding mission by working diligently to uplift and empower their communities through servant leadership and civic engagement. Through the Epsilon Sigma Boule Foundation, the fraternity has invested substantially in initiatives that serve the greater good-- mentoring youth, increasing access to STEM education, supporting the performing arts in Title I schools, and providing college scholarships for deserving minority students. These actions reflect a commitment not only to excellence, but to ensuring equity and opportunity for all. As the Epsilon Sigma Boule celebrates a decade of excellence, we honor its enduring mission and the transformational impact it continues to have in Prince William County and beyond. They have exemplified principled leadership and civic responsibility, carrying forward the Fraternity's mission with purposeful action and a steadfast dedication to community advancement. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the 10th Anniversary of the Epsilon Sigma Boule of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity and in celebrating the tremendous work this organization continues to do to strengthen our communities and shape the future of our country.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize my district's 2025 Congressional Art Competition winner, Kaitlyn Anthes as my Constituent of the Week. Kaitlyn's charcoal drawing, titled To Light and Guard, will hang in the U.S. Capitol representing Virginia's Seventh District for the next year. Her artwork was so impressive that when we received her piece, my district director initially thought we had purchased professional artwork to hang in the office. In addition to being a talented artist, Kaitlyn recently graduated from Courtland High School in Spotsylvania. In Congress, I am working to strengthen public education so students like Kaitlyn have access to programs that allow them to pursue their passions. I congratulate Kaitlyn on this well-earned accomplishment and wish her luck as she heads off to college in the fall.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to congratulate my constituent of the week, Dr. Janet Gullickson, as she retires from her post as president of Germanna Community College. In 2017, Dr. Gullickson became the first woman to serve as president in the history of the college. Throughout her tenure, Germanna has been praised for its quality education and professional development opportunities. From helping nursing students access experiential learning through their work with Mary Washington Healthcare to ensuring that Germanna remains on the cutting edge by becoming the first institution of higher learning to receive Amazon Web Services' mobile classroom, Dr. Gullickson has dedicated her presidency to ensuring that her students are set up for success in the classroom and beyond. I also recognize Dr. Janet Gullickson as a great military mom. She raised a great soldier and military lawyer and my former captain. I wish her well on her next chapter.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the exceptional leadership of Fredericksburg City Public School Superintendent Dr. Marci Catlett. Dr. Catlett has been a trailblazer in implementing forward-thinking strategies to strengthen her students' well-being. In the summer of 2024, she launched an initiative to curb cell phone usage in schools by requiring her students to store their phones for the entire school day. As a lawmaker in Congress, leading the effort to remove phones from schools from bell to bell nationwide, I am grateful for Dr. Catlett's commitment to helping our students unplug. As a father of two kids, I know the importance of creating a learning environment that nurtures the academic success and mental health of our young folks. Collaborating with educators like Dr. Catlett has been critical in working to build a stronger future for Virginia's next generation of leaders. I extend my deepest gratitude to her for advancing these critical initiatives.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the Prince William County Fire and Rescue Department Valor Award recipients, recognizing the extraordinary bravery and selfless service demonstrated by its firefighters, paramedics, and rescue personnel. These awards reflect the courageous actions of the department's dedicated men and women who put themselves in harm's way to protect and serve the community in its most critical moments. Each recipient exemplifies true valor, facing danger without hesitation, providing life-saving aid, and prioritizing the safety of others in the most challenging emergencies. Their courage and compassion strengthen the bonds within our community, fostering trust, resilience, and a shared sense of security. Today, we honor their collective bravery and unwavering commitment to public service. Whether responding to fires, medical emergencies, or natural disasters, these individuals demonstrate an unyielding commitment to preserving life and property. Their professionalism and readiness in the face of uncertainty set an example for us all and serve as a reminder of the impact that first responders have on the lives of those they protect. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Prince William County Fire and Rescue team for their remarkable contributions to our community.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the Prince William County Sheriff's Office and to recognize one of its distinguished members who has received a Valor Award: Deputy Mackenzie Miller. While today we recognize Deputy Miller, this award reflects the commitment to duty, professionalism, and public safety that defines the entire Sheriff's Office. This honored deputy exemplifies what it means to act with valor-- responding with courage in the face of danger, demonstrating sound judgment under pressure, and placing the well-being of others above self. Whether in the courtroom, on transport duty, or assisting during critical incidents, members of the Sheriff's Office play a vital and often underappreciated role in maintaining the safety and order of our community. Today, we recognize the extraordinary actions of Deputy Miller, whose bravery and dedication serve as a powerful example of the values upheld by the Prince William County Sheriff's Office. Her service reminds us that heroism is not measured by numbers, but by the impact one person can have through a single courageous act. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Prince William County Sheriff's Office for their remarkable contributions to our community.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the Prince William County Police Department Valor Award recipients, recognizing the exceptional bravery and selfless service demonstrated by its officers. These awards reflect the courageous efforts of many dedicated men and women across the department including officers, detectives, sergeants, and specialists alike, who put their lives on the line to protect our community. Each recipient represents a powerful example of valor and commitment, embodying the highest ideals of public service. Whether responding to immediate threats, conducting investigations, or supporting victims in moments of crisis, these individuals demonstrate unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of the people they serve. Their heroic actions strengthen the bonds between law enforcement and the community, building trust, security, and resilience. Today, we recognize and celebrate the collective courage and sacrifice of these officers, whose service uplifts us all and sets a powerful standard of integrity and compassion. We are grateful for their bravery and proud to honor the Prince William County Police Department for their outstanding commitment to justice and public safety. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Prince William County Police Department for their remarkable contributions to our community.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the Prince William County Department of Public Safety Communications Valor Award recipients, recognizing the extraordinary dedication of who serve as the critical first link in emergency response. These awards reflect the calm, skilled, and courageous actions of these professionals, often the unseen first responders, who ensure help is dispatched swiftly and accurately in our community's most urgent moments. Each recipient exemplifies what it means to act with valor, remaining composed under pressure, coordinating life-saving responses in real time, and providing reassurance and guidance to those facing crisis. These individuals demonstrate extraordinary focus, compassion, and professionalism. Their efforts strengthen public trust and ensure that every emergency begins with clarity, care, and swift action--fostering a safer community. Today, we recognize and celebrate their critical role and exceptional commitment to public service, often carried out behind the scenes but never without impact. We are deeply grateful for their service and proud to honor the Prince William County Department of Public Safety Communications for their unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of our community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Prince William County Department of Public Safety Communications for their remarkable contributions to our community.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the Prince William County Fire Department Valor Award recipients, recognizing the extraordinary bravery and selfless service demonstrated by its firefighters, paramedics, and rescue personnel. These awards reflect the courageous actions of the department's dedicated men and women who put themselves in harm's way to protect and serve the community in its most critical moments. Each recipient exemplifies what it means to act with valor--facing danger without hesitation, responding swiftly in times of crisis, and placing the safety of others above their own. Whether battling intense fires, delivering life-saving medical aid, or navigating complex emergency situations, these professionals demonstrate unwavering resolve and deep compassion for those they serve. Their heroism builds trust and deepens the connections that hold our community together, fostering a shared sense of safety, resilience, and unity across neighborhoods, schools, and families. Today, we recognize and celebrate the collective courage and commitment of these individuals, whose actions inspire us all and uphold the highest ideals of public service. We are deeply grateful for their bravery, and proud to honor the Prince William County Fire Department for their outstanding dedication to the safety and well-being of our community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Prince William County Fire Department for their remarkable contributions to our community.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the extreme cuts to Medicaid and SNAP being pushed by extreme Washington Republicans. Last month, I spoke with Shannon, a mother whose son relies on Medicaid for lifesaving care. I also spoke with Eugene, a fifth- generation farmer in Culpeper who grows produce that goes straight to food banks, schools, and churches. Both Shannon and Eugene are facing uncertain futures because of these cuts. More than 56,000 kids in Virginia's Seventh Congressional District rely on Medicaid or SNAP. These cuts would take food away from children as young as 8 years old. I guess we will just have to give our 8-year- old kids little, tiny boots with little, tiny bootstraps so they can pull themselves up. These aren't just budget choices. They are moral ones. They are the wrong ones. We should support families and the farmers who feed them, not punish them. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to reject these cruel cuts and stand with families and farmers like Shannon and Eugene.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today during National Police Week, I rise to commend the bravery of law enforcement officers across Virginia's Seventh Congressional District. In early April, tragedy struck Spotsylvania County when a mass shooting left three people sadly deceased and three others injured. Law enforcement officers from Spotsylvania County and the city of Fredericksburg swiftly answered the call and put their lives on the line to protect their neighbors. As a former prosecutor and Army veteran, I understand the mission that our men and women in uniform take on every day. They serve knowing that their work is bigger than any one person. It is about protecting our communities and upholding the law for our families and loved ones. Mr. Speaker, today, I thank the brave law enforcement officers of Spotsylvania and Fredericksburg and all officers serving across the 11 counties of Virginia's Seventh Congressional District. Their service and sacrifice is deeply valued.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor United States Marine Corporal Joseph Donald for his incredible service to our country and to recognize his recent approval to receive the Purple Heart. The Purple Heart is one of the oldest and most revered military decorations. It is awarded to those who have been wounded or killed in action while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It represents not just injury, but sacrifice--the physical cost of defending our freedoms. Corporal Donald served honorably for over six years, including deployments to both Afghanistan and Iraq. His time in uniform coincided with some of the most dangerous years of conflict, ending in 2011. During that period, he witnessed the loss of many fellow Marines-- brothers and sisters in arms who gave their lives in service. In 2011, while deployed in Afghanistan, Corporal Donald was severely injured in an explosion. Despite the severity of his injuries, Corporal Donald's resiliency is a true testament of his character and to the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment. Today, as we recognize Corporal Donald's receipt of the Purple Heart, we also reflect on the sacrifices made by so many service members like him. His story is one of bravery, dedication. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Corporal Donald formally on the honor of receiving the Purple Heart award. I join the rest of the community in thanking Corporal Donald for his courage and bravery in the line of duty.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, we have all seen the recent news on Ukraine: Zelenskyy is set to meet Putin. Putin must immediately agree to a 30-day cease-fire. To force that, the United States and President Trump must increase the pressure on Putin. This is not a regional fight. Ukraine's sovereignty is a U.S. national security issue. It is also a humanitarian crisis. As of 2023, the U.S. State Department had documented the abduction of approximately 20,000 Ukrainian children. That number has only increased. The program that was keeping track of those children has recently been cut. These Russian abductions represent a deliberate effort to eliminate Ukrainian national identity, destroy family ties, and are a specific element of a genocide crime under international criminal law. The Russians claim, further, that 700,000 children have been seized. None of this can stand. As someone who has traveled over a dozen times to Ukraine in order to investigate war crimes, I know how important it is that we make a stand now, not later. We must uphold our American values by seeking peace in the region and demanding the immediate return of Ukraine's missing children. We will see this week whether Mr. Putin shows up for peace talks with Ukraine in Turkiye or remains an international pariah and coward.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and service of Diane Raulston, a devoted public servant, community leader, and advocate for education in Prince William County, Virginia. Diane Raulston served the residents of the Neabsco District with distinction on the Prince William County School Board from 2015 to 2023. Throughout her years of service, she was a passionate and determined advocate for public education, promoting efforts to raise teacher pay, close opportunity gaps, and create a more equitable, student-centered school system. Under Diane Raulston's leadership. the school division made meaningful strides: graduation rates rose, access to pre-kindergarten expanded, and Career and Technical Education programs grew significantly. Her steady support helped guide the opening of nine new schools to meet the demands of a growing student population, ensuring that every child had a safe and welcoming place to learn. Beyond her official role, Diane was known for her kindness, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of public education to uplift communities. She listened, she acted, and she made a difference in countless lives. Her legacy is not only visible in the buildings and programs she helped establish, but also in the spirit of service she inspired in others. As we remember Diane Raulston, we celebrate a life lived in service to others, a life marked by integrity, compassion, and impact. Her passing is a profound loss for our community, but her contributions will endure for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Diane Raulston's remarkable life. May her legacy of service and her devotion to educational equity continue to inspire and guide our efforts.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Madam Speaker, during this Small Business Week, it is my honor to recognize Joe Clontz on his receipt of the John L. Stanley Award from the Orange County Chamber of Commerce. This award is given to those who are committed to going above and beyond to support Orange County's business community. Through Joe's business of providing critical electrical services to the residents of Orange, he has built a legacy of hard work. What makes him so deserving of this award is not just what he does at work. It is the time and energy he devotes to strengthening our community. He has helped grow local businesses and create new opportunities for the people of Orange County. During Small Business Week, I am honored to congratulate him on this well-earned award and recognize him as this week's Constituent of the Week. Madam Speaker, I congratulate Joe and offer my best wishes to him on continued success.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, on National Teacher Day, I rise to recognize Fredericksburg Mayor Kerry Devine as this week's Constituent of the Week. Mayor Devine also spends her time as a history teacher in Stafford County. She is a role model in civic leadership, both for the city of Fredericksburg and for her students in Stafford. Whether in city hall or in the classroom, she has made community a cornerstone of her tenure as a public servant and educator. She has also tirelessly worked to increase reading comprehension, counter the harmful impacts of social media on young people, and she supports phone-free schools. Her work reminds us that educators don't just teach; they shape the future. As a dad of two kids who have attended Virginia schools, I am grateful. Mr. Speaker, today, I thank Mayor Devine and all the teachers across Virginia's Seventh Congressional District who go above and beyond to make sure every student feels seen, valued, and empowered. Their work is incredibly important.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize May 2 as Nonketotic Hyperglycinemia Awareness Day. NKH is a rare genetic disorder, and there are only 500 kids in the world living with it, four of them calling the Commonwealth of Virginia home. Today, I am proud to be joined by one of these incredible kids, my constituent Luka, and his family. Jackie and her dad, Eddy, are also important advocates in Virginia dealing with this disease. At one of my townhalls, Luka's mom, Shannon, shared their story with me. It was a story where Medicaid was at the center. Without reliable Medicaid, Luka would not receive his 18 daily medications, at-home care, and other resources he needs. His mom and dad, Shannon and Chris, work full-time jobs, and Medicaid is backup insurance. By establishing May 2 as NKH Awareness Day, we raise awareness for this devastating disease and recommit to fighting for a reliable Medicaid. That is because every family should be focused on spending time with their loved ones and not worrying about healthcare.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I join my colleagues in commemorating a somber moment, the 50th anniversary of the Fall of Saigon and Black April. Today is a moment to recognize and reflect on the courage of the Vietnamese people and their fight against a Communist dictatorship. As a refugee whose family fled Soviet Ukraine with under 800 bucks, I connect deeply with that experience. My family came to America in search of an opportunity to succeed, to achieve the American Dream. We worked hard, we served our country in the military, and now I serve my constituents in Congress. I will fight to keep the American Dream alive for anyone who wants to work for it. Mr. Speaker, today, my thoughts are with my Vietnamese neighbors commemorating Black April. As a 25-year Army veteran, I reaffirm my commitment to upholding the ideals that the Vietnamese refugee community risked everything to find: liberty, freedom, and opportunity.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to celebrate someone truly special, a person whose presence has touched so many lives at the University of Mary Washington. After 30 years of dedicated service to the dining team, Dora Whiting is retiring. I want to take a moment to recognize her immense impact on our community by naming her my ``Constituent of the Week.'' From her iconic ``It's Friday!'' moments to the joy she brings when students walk by Woodard Hall, her positive energy has made a lasting impression on all she meets. Her compassion and unwavering support for students and faculty alike have helped create a welcoming environment that will be remembered for years to come. I know the students at Mary Washington will certainly miss her constant presence, and I join them in celebrating her retirement and her legacy.

Mr. VINDMAN

Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, history has taught us time and time again that appeasement in the face of aggression and evil only invites more aggression. We saw it in the 1930s, and we are seeing echoes of it in the Trump administration's actions today. When we hesitate to support Ukraine, we drag our feet, or allow political infighting to stall critical aid, we are sending a dangerous message to autocrats, especially China. Vladimir Putin invaded a sovereign democracy. He is betting that the free world will grow tired, turn inward, and look away. We cannot let that happen. Standing with Ukraine is not charity. It is deterrence and in our national security interests. If we do not stand with Ukraine, eventually American troops will be forced to fight aggressors in East Asia and Europe. Deterrence is the key to putting them and our national security first. Appeasement failed the world before. We cannot afford to repeat that mistake.