Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Megan Amen, for her service to the country and the 2nd District of South Carolina. Throughout her four-year time in the office, Megan has been an invaluable member of our team, focused on the challenging responsibility of keeping my daily and long-term schedule running smoothly. She also had the added duties of overseeing a legislative portfolio covering several important issue areas, including her work in supporting Armed Services legislation. Megan graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in dance and political science from Rutgers University, then followed up, with a Master of Arts degree in international relations from Arizona State University. Though a native of Arizona, Megan will always be fondly regarded as an honorary South Carolinian for her commitment to SC-02. Megan will be missed, but we wish her well in her new duties serving with the USO, which is such a valued institution for service members and families worldwide.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, President Donald Trump and House Republicans are helping keep families safe. Border provisions in the Working Families Tax Cut Act secured the addition of completing hundreds of miles of border wall with advanced border technology, hiring 10,000 new Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, 3,000 new Border Patrol agents, and strengthening the Coast Guard operations targeting drug trafficking and human smuggling. A secure border is the first defense for American families. In conclusion, God bless our troops. President Trump is reinstituting peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, providing targeting information to Iran to murder Americans and Israelis. This weekend, South Carolina Republicans convened to celebrate the nearly 70 percent primary victory of Alan Wilson for Governor, with teammates Mike Reichenbach for Lieutenant Governor, David Stumbo for attorney general, Ellen Weaver for superintendent of education, and Cody Simpson for agriculture commissioner.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, fraud diverts programs meant for families, seniors, children, veterans, and small businesses. It rewards criminals who know the government will often pay first and ask questions later. House Republicans have passed legislation, including the Fraud Prevention Accountability Act, led by our Speaker Mike Johnson to help agencies verify eligibility, share information, and stop suspicious payments before the money is distributed. House Republicans are exposing fraud by investigating programs, recovering stolen dollars, and giving whistleblowers a voice. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, intentionally murdering Ukrainian civilians while destroying churches. Congratulations Attorney General Alan Wilson with a 69 percent Republican primary victory yesterday for Governor of South Carolina. I appreciate the endorsement of Donald Trump, Nancy Mace, and Ralph Norman. I extend my sympathy on the passing of Commissioner Jo Anne Whitehead, the beloved wife of Chairman Lyman Whitehead of Irmo, South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as Co-Chair and founder of the Congressional Bulgaria Caucus, I rise to recognize Valentin Nikolov as he leaves Washington to begin his next diplomatic assignment at the Permanent Representation of Bulgaria in Strasbourg, France. For more than five years, Valentin has vigorously served as Deputy Chief of Mission and Minister Plenipotentiary at the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria. Throughout his time in Washington, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strengthening the partnership between the United States and the Republic of Bulgaria, fostering deeper connections and lasting ties between our nations. With nearly 40 years of experience in diplomacy and international affairs, Valentin has held senior positions within Bulgaria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and representing the country within the European Union, United Nations, and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo. Beyond his impressive professional accomplishments, Valentin has been a loyal friend and valued colleague. I am grateful for his years of dedicated service in Washington and wish him continued success promoting the dynamic people of Bulgaria.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as chairman of the U.S. Thai Alliance Caucus, I want to offer my sympathy to the royal family and people of Thailand. I include in the Record the following announcement by the Royal Household Bureau: Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati passed away on Thursday night at the age of 47, the Royal Household Bureau announced on Friday morning. The princess died peacefully at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital at 7:48 pm on Thursday despite receiving continuous medical care from a team of doctors who had closely monitored and treated her condition to the best of their abilities. HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha had been hospitalized since Dec 15, 2022, after collapsing due to a heart-related condition while training her pet dog in Pak Chong district of Nakhon Ratchasima province the previous day. Since May 21, the royal medical team had been closely monitoring the health of HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha due to a severe infection that remained uncontrolled and affected the function of several major organ systems, the bureau said in a statement issued on Friday. According to the statement, doctors detected an abdominal infection caused by inflammation of the large intestine in April. This caused HRH's condition to become unstable, further causing low blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat and abnormal blood clotting. According to the announcement, her condition gradually deteriorated thereafter until her passing on Thursday night. His Majesty the King has commanded the Royal Household Bureau to arrange royal funeral rites with the highest honors in accordance with royal tradition. HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha will lie in state at Phiman Rattaya Throne Hall in the Grand Palace, Bangkok. HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha was the eldest daughter of His Majesty the King and HRH Princess Soamsawali Krom Muen Suddhanarinatha.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support of H.R. 5248 and specifically Section 8 regarding subnational diplomacy, an effort I was grateful to champion with my colleague Ted Lieu. H.R. 5248 is an important piece of the much larger effort to reauthorize the functions and operations of the Department. At the start of the 119th Congress, more than 85 percent of the Department was unauthorized. H.R. 5248 authorizes the Department's bureaus and offices charged with sanctions policy, critical mineral supply chain diversification, energy security, and building a cadre of well-trained economic policy diplomats. H.R. 5248 includes important reforms to the Department, aligning resources with the America First foreign policy agenda. This bill puts commercial diplomacy at the forefront of our diplomatic efforts, prioritizing American businesses and protecting American industries. H.R. 5248 includes section 8 which was introduced as a standalone bill in previous Congresses. In the 119th Congress, this is H.R. 5323, authorizing the office of Subnational Diplomacy. This office supports local governments across the country who trying to attract foreign direct investment to their area. This is especially important in districts like mine which has massive investments from Bridgestone, Michelin, Rolls-Royce Power Systems, Prysmian Group, and BAE Systems. I am pleased that this bill, which I worked on with my colleagues Rep. Lieu and Rep. Meeks, is moving forward today. H.R. 5248 is a truly bipartisan product. It was praised during the Foreign Affairs Committee mark-up in September by Ranking Member Meeks and it reflects a long-overdue rebalancing of the Department's priorities--emphasizing commercial diplomacy and economic growth.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today we celebrate the life and legacy of a remarkable South Carolinian, a true giant in American music, widely regarded as the Father of Modern American Opera, Carlisle Floyd. Born in Latta, South Carolina, in 1926, Carlisle Floyd would have turned 100 on June 11. During his life, he carried with him the stories, sounds, and spirit of the American South throughout his extraordinary career. From those roots, he created operas that spoke not only to our region, but to the nation and the world. His works--most notably Susannah and Of Mice and Men--redefined what American opera could be. They brought everyday people to the operatic stage, told deeply human stories in an unmistakably American voice, and made the art form more accessible, more relevant, and more enduring. In doing so, he inspired generations of composers, performers, and audiences. Beyond his compositions, he was a dedicated educator and institutional leader, helping to build and elevate programs like the Houston Grand Opera Studio, where he mentored young artists and ensured the future of American opera would remain vibrant and innovative. And through it all, he remained a proud son of South Carolina-- earning recognition including the Order of the Palmetto, our state's highest civilian honor. As we mark the centennial of his birth, we celebrate more than his achievements--we celebrate his impact. His music continues to be performed on stages across the country and around the world, reminding us that great art has the power to connect, to challenge, and to endure. Carlisle Floyd's legacy is a testament to the richness of American creativity and the profound contributions that can come from a small town in South Carolina I am grateful to honor his life, his work, and his lasting imprint on American culture.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, with blatant complicity by Democrats, America had open-border policies, millions of illegal aliens crossing, human trafficking of children, and fentanyl trafficking, killing tens of thousands of young Americans. House Republicans are funding law enforcement to secure the border. Yesterday, Republicans passed the Secure America Act, funding Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs. Key components include Border Patrol agents, surveillance technology, and child exploitation investigators. Under the leadership of President Donald Trump, Border Patrol has released zero illegal aliens this year, using current laws, not needing immigration reform. Yesterday, in the South Carolina Republican primary, I am grateful that my son, Alan Wilson, the longest serving attorney general in America, achieved the runoff on June 23 to serve the people of South Carolina. In conclusion, God bless our troops as Donald Trump is reinstituting peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, as war criminal Putin provides targeting information to Iran to murder Americans. South Carolina mourns the passing yesterday of Butch Wallace, who will always be cherished as a civic leader and an American patriot.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Gilbert ``Butch'' Wallace, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, and public servant whose impact on our community will be felt for generations. Butch is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Carolyn Wallace, their two daughters, Heather Wallace and Michelle Boone, and grandson Tyler Muller. Together they built a family grounded in faith, service, and love. The Wilson family always welcomed him as ``Uncle Butch,'' Attorney General Alan Wilson and Palmetto State Armory founder Julian Wilson were especially encouraged by ``Uncle Butch.'' A Florida native, Butch attended Florida State University where he earned a degree in Communications and Business. He went on to build a successful State Farm Agency, serving his community for 48 years. Through his work, he not only helped countless families and businesses, but also, created jobs and contributed to the economic growth of our state. For more than 20 years, Butch has served as a valued member of my staff, where he touched the lives of countless South Carolinians, including my own. His wisdom and unwavering commitment to others made him an indispensable member of Team Wilson and a trusted friend of all those who worked alongside him. His dedication to service extended far beyond his professional life. He was deeply involved in his community serving as a Charter Member and President of the West Metro Rotary Club, President of the National Kidney Foundation of South Carolina, a member of the National Federation of Independent Business State Advisory Council, and a member of the Boy Scouts of America Indian Waters Council Board. Additionally, in 2019, he was a recipient of the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina's highest civilian award. His commitment to civic engagement led him to serve in many political leadership roles including as Chairman of the Lexington County Republican Party and as a delegate to many state and county conventions. Butch lived a life defined by service, integrity, and kindness. South Carolina is better because of his contributions, and all who knew him are better for having called him a friend. He leaves behind a legacy of leadership, compassion, and service that will endure long beyond his lifetime. May we honor Butch by striving to serve others with the same dedication and grace that he demonstrated throughout his remarkable life.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as founder and co-chair of the Bulgaria Caucus, I am grateful to congratulate Bulgaria on winning its first ever Eurovision Song Contest. Ever since my service as an election observer in Bulgaria, 36 years ago today, I have been inspired by the talented people of Bulgaria with its extraordinary history from the time of ancient Thrace. I have seen firsthand brave Bulgarians emerge from communist oppression to achieve dynamic EU and NATO membership. Eurovision 2026 marked the 70th edition of this celebrated competition, showcasing musical talent from nations across the continent. Held from May 10 through May 16, the contest brought together 35 nations competing for the prestigious Crystal Microphone at the Wiener Stadthalle in Vienna, Austria. Choreographed by Fredrik Rydman and Keisha von Arnold, the winning display was as dominant as it was energetic as they became the first team in nearly a decade to win the televote and jury vote. The winning song, ``Bangaranga,'' was performed by Darina Nikolaeva Yotova, known as ``Dara,'' and written by Anne Judith Wik, Cristian Tarcea, and Dimitris Kontopoulos. This win is the culmination of hard work by the team of performers, writers, and choreographers. I congratulate Bulgaria on their victory and I wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, President Donald Trump has overhauled workforce training, creating high-paying jobs without crushing debt. Trump means jobs. The Working Families Tax Cuts Act expanded savings for training in plumbing, electrical work, welding, and cosmetology, covering expenses for tuition and books. This initiative creates jobs. Today is primary day in South Carolina, and in every election, I have stood in front of a polling location to thank voters for participating. With the close votes we are having here today, I am remaining in Washington, appreciating my Republican colleagues and being loyal to Trump policies. In the Governor's race, Donald Trump will be a winner with all talented candidates, Trump supporters Nancy Mace, Ralph Norman, Rom Reddy, and Alan Wilson. Trump loyalists urge President Trump to endorse both runoff candidates in the upcoming runoff, 2 weeks from today, as Trump will be a winner. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and Trump is reinstating peace through strength, creating and revealing war criminal Putin lies, as war criminal Putin talks lovely in the morning and war criminal Putin mass murders in the evening. Our prayers for American patriot Butch Wallace at the Lexington Medical Center.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Brian Mast for being so perceptive. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7668, the Countering China's Control of the Caucasus Act, to reassert, as the speaker expressed earlier, to support freedom and prosperity in the South Caucasus region of Asia. President Donald Trump has presented a historic opportunity to expand economic prosperity in Central Asia, benefiting the region and America. Georgia has been a courageous, longtime ally of the United States with a population that overwhelmingly supports a strong relationship with the West. Congressman Bera is correct that the House has already passed the MEGOBARI Act which provides for the strengthening relationship with the people of Georgia 349-42 and to support the people of Georgia. The illegitimate Georgian Dream regime is in the process of selling out the country to the Chinese Communist Party and, indeed the chairman is correct, war criminal Putin and Iran, against the wishes of the Georgian people and the interests of the United States. The election was rigged in Georgia. With this, they have peddled the vilest anti-American propaganda and constantly insult President Trump, accusing him of acting as an agent of the ``deep state.'' In fact, we also note that the legitimate President, Salome Zourabichvili, has been a valued guest for the inauguration of President Donald Trump, and almost daily, there are demonstrations in Tbilisi where people carry giant posters of President Donald Trump, expressing their love and affection for President Trump and the United States. The puppet Georgian Dream Prime Minister just last week accused our Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, of lying. The behavior of this rogue regime threatens all that President Trump has accomplished in the South Caucasus, and it must change. The sea route to the Middle Corridor must run through Georgia and the Communist Chinese Party is set, as the chairman has identified, to own and control the strategic deep seaport in the region, the Anaklia Port on the Black Sea. Congratulations to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in neighboring Armenia on his astounding election victory yesterday. Unlike Georgian Dream, Pashinyan is working with the United States and with President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan to remove Russian influence from the region and normalize relations with the very valued and appreciated NATO ally, Turkiye. This is a once in a 3,000 year opportunity for stability, peace, and prosperity in the region. I am grateful for President Trump orchestrating the peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Georgian Dream nightmare regime with fair and free elections must abandon its anti-American course, release political prisoners, end politically motivated prosecutions, ensure a fair election environment, revoke draconian laws that are suffocating U.S. businesses, and seek to end the repression of free speech. The Countering China's Control of the Caucasus Act ensures that Chinese and Russian covert operations in the country are brought to light and that the United States strongly considers whether Georgia should remain a top recipient of aid while it attacks America in its propaganda on an almost daily basis. Georgian troops have fought bravely with Americans in Afghanistan and Iraq, along with our chairman. We know that Georgia has been a close partner and ally of the United States. We must reestablish the strong relationship that has been between the United States and Georgia. It will not be able to normalize unless we have fair and free elections. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful that under the leadership of Speaker Mike Johnson, House Republicans are eliminating wasteful spending, exposing fraud, and keeping taxpayer dollars for the American families. House Republicans are supporting President Donald Trump, passing the Rescissions Act of 2025, cutting wasteful spending, stopping the funding of radical agendas, holding agencies accountable, and implementing congressional oversight. Being loyal to President Trump, I am here tonight and tomorrow and not present at the South Carolina Republican primary that I have always attended with voters who I so appreciate for their support. I am here because I am loyal to President Donald Trump, and I request loyalty reciprocal. Attorney General Alan Wilson and the Wilson family, Roxanne and myself, have been loyal to Donald Trump since 2015, and we are urging that there be a coendorsement in the upcoming election, which will be the runoff of June 23 for Governor of South Carolina. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump, mocking Trump, with war criminal Putin murdering children with a tax on civilian population.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Pawel Kowal, hand delivered a Resolution from the Parliament of Poland to Armed Services Committee Chairman, Mike Rogers, and Helsinki Commission Chairman, Joe Wilson, reaffirming solidarity of Poland and the United States. Friendship between the people of America with the people of Poland has never been stronger with the bonds of 8.3 million Polish-Americans in all states and territories. I include in the Record the following Resolution: Resolution of the Semj of the Republic of Poland of May 29, 2026 On Polish-American relations and the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America Two hundred and fifty years ago, on July 4, 1776, the American Congress adopted the Unanimous Declaration of the Thirteen United States of America, commonly known as the Declaration of Independence. Since the very beginnings of the history of the United States, close ties between Americans and Poles also began to develop. The Declaration of Independence, together with the United States Constitution, adopted in later years, embodied the political ideals of the Enlightenment and enshrined values that have continued to inspire many nations around the world to this day--the ideas of freedom, equality, human rights, as well as the separation and balance of powers. Above all, these documents solidified the conviction that power derives from the nation. Similar tendencies and ideals led to the adoption of the Constitution of 3 May in Poland in 1791--the second constitution in the world and the first modern constitution in Europe. The Sejm of the Republic of Poland emphasizes that a profound love of freedom and a shared understanding of democratic ideals impelled the heroes of Poland's quest for independence to engage in the American Revolution and in the fight for the independence of the United States of America. Through their many initiatives, Tadeusz Kosciuszko and Kazimierz Pulaski helped defend the independence of the nascent American state. In the years that followed, the Polish-American bond forged in battle was put to the test on numerous occasions and was sealed in blood by the sacrifices made by soldiers of both nations during joint combat missions. The Sejm of the Republic of Poland expresses its appreciation for the role of the Polish diaspora in the United States. For generations, Poles emigrated to America and--through their labor--contributed to the economic success of the United States, whilst at the same time preserving the memory of their homeland in their hearts and cultivating the traditions of their ancestors. In many cases they prepared themselves to fight for Poland's independence and for the rebuilding of the state once freedom had been regained. The Sejm of the Republic of Poland recalls with respect and gratitude the role of the United States in restoring Poland's independence after First World War. The position taken by the United States effectively contributed to achieving the goal pursued by several generations of Poles. The Sejm of the Republic of Poland further emphasizes that the United States made a special contribution to the liberation of Poland from the communist regime, the restoration of its independence, and to advancing the process of systemic transformation initiated in 1989. The support of the United States for Poland's accession to NATO in 1999 was crucial to ensuring the security of a free Poland and its place within the Euro-Atlantic community. The Sejm of the Republic of Poland acknowledges the importance of the contemporary parliamentary relations with the Congress of the United States. We emphasize that the Polish-American relations, grounded in the pursuit of shared ideals, are fundamental to the security of our state. Poland is an important ally of the United States, especially within the context of the eastern flank of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. This is demonstrated by the permanent presence of the United States Armed Forces troops in Poland. The Sejm of the Republic of Poland underscores that the Polish-American friendship is important to Polish society and is recognized as such across political lines. On the special occasion of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America and of the relations that have developed between our nations, we wish the American people prosperity in the spirit of the ideals that have shaped the public life of the United States.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the full-scale, murderous attacks on Ukrainian civilians by war criminal Putin have continued since February 2022. Many thousands of civilians have been mercilessly killed, including children. It is inspiring there is an effort to protect these innocent children ``sounding off.'' The Sound of Life is a humanitarian awareness campaign launched by Trident Group Ukraine with the support of Ambassador Olha Stefanishyna of the Embassy of Ukraine to the United States. In Ukraine, parents place whistles around the necks of their children before bedtime--so rescuers can find them if their homes collapse under missile strikes. What should be a toy has become a lifeline. After the missiles, the greatest danger is silence or an inability to rescue survivors. Continued American support is essential. Air defense saves lives by stopping missiles and drones before they reach targeted homes, schools, churches, and hospitals. Courageous Ukrainians will be victorious for sovereignty, defeating war criminal Putin. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops as the Global War on Terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting Peace Through Strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump with murderous attacks on civilians across Ukraine.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to cherish Chairman Greg Shorey, an historic patriot in South Carolina as the first modern Republican State Party Chairman. His competence, integrity, and vision were crucial beginning in 1958, when no elected officials in South Carolina were Republican throughout the Twentieth Century; to 2026, when all statewide officials in South Carolina are Republicans and massive majorities in local offices and the General Assembly. He is an inspiration. I include in the Record the following obituary, which has been provided by Mackey Funerals of Greenville: Gregory Day Shorey, Jr. It is with profound sorrow and deep respect that we announce the passing of Gregory Day Shorey Jr., a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, esteemed businessman, and devoted community leader. Greg departed this world peacefully on May 18, 2026, at the age of 101. Born on June 27, 1924, in Belmont, Massachusetts, he embodied a century of wisdom, love, and service. Greg was a man who lived his life with unwavering dedication and compassion. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II from 1943 to 1945, and later in the Navy Reserve until 1947. Following his military service, he pursued higher education and graduated from the Boston University School of Public Relations in 1948. Armed with both knowledge and determination, he ventured into the business world, founding Style Crafters Inc. in 1951. This company, renowned for its marine safety and water sports equipment under the brand Aqua Float, became a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. After selling the company in 1969, Greg established Shorey and Associates Marketing and Communications, passing the torch to his son, Gregory Day Shorey III, upon his retirement in 1990. Greg's commitment to his community was evident through his active participation in the South Carolina Republican Party, where he served as Party Chairman from 1958 to 1961. His leadership extended to national platforms as a delegate to the Republican National Convention in 1956 and 1964. Greg's passion for public service saw him appointed to the South Carolina Dairy Commission and the Beaufort County Board of Elections, among numerous advisory roles. Beyond his professional and civic engagements, Greg was a devoted family man. He was predeceased by his cherished wives, Betty Young Shorey, with whom he shared 66 beautiful years raising four children, and Jill Irvine, his loving partner of 8 years. He also faced the heartache of losing his daughter, Pamela Shorey Jahns, and grandson, Justin Tyler Millwood. Yet, the legacy of love continues through his surviving children, Gregory Day Shorey III (Patty), Cynthia Shorey White (Steve), and Amy Shorey Grace. His spirit lives on in his grandchildren, Leia Jahns Herring, Jeffery D. White, Taylor D. Shorey, Michael G. White, and seven great- grandchildren who brought him endless joy. An avid golfer, Greg enjoyed the fairways well into his late 90s, and he found peace boating on Lake Adger, NC, and off the coast of Beaufort, SC. These pursuits reflected his zest for life and his appreciation for the simple pleasures. In honoring Greg's wishes, a private funeral ceremony will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a cause dear to Greg's heart. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at Patriot Hospice and Palliative Care, Angel Heart Caregivers Services, and Linville Court at The Cascades for their unwavering support and care. Greg Shorey Jr.'s life was a tapestry of love, service, and integrity. His legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace, forever cherished and remembered.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, veterans have courageously served America to protect the freedoms we enjoy. They deserve the respect of American families and must never be forgotten. This week, House Republicans will vote on multiple bills to protect the constitutional rights of veterans and expand access to benefits they have earned through service. House Republicans believe that veterans deserve better--care they can access; veterans' benefits delivered on time; a Veterans Administration that works for veterans; real support for mental health, housing, education, and employment. Memorial Day on Monday is a solemn day of remembrance for the Americans who have given their lives in service for our country, liberating dozens of countries from socialism and communism. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump as the Chinese Communist Party trains Putin troops to murder Ukrainian civilians where Ukrainian parents provide whistles at night to children to be heard as Putin attacks civilian apartment buildings.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, America is grateful for the life and extraordinary career of The Honorable William Joseph ``Bill'' Posey. The Congressman selflessly served the people of Florida and our Nation for 16 years in the United States House of Representatives. His warm smile will always be cherished. I appreciate his dedication and commitment to America. I include in the Record the following obituary provided by the Funeral Solutions SM: Former United States Congressman William Joseph ``Bill'' Posey passed away on May 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Bill dedicated his life to serving the people of Florida and our nation with integrity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to public service. His passing marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades of leadership at the local, state, and federal levels. He approached public office not as a path to personal recognition but as a solemn responsibility to serve others honorably, faithfully, and effectively. His legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched, the communities he strengthened, and the values he championed throughout his years of service. Those who knew Bill personally understood that beyond the titles and accomplishments was a kind, grounded, and deeply loyal man who loved his family above all else. Congressman Posey represented Florida in the United States House of Representatives from 2009 to 2025, following distinguished service in both the Florida House of Representatives and the Florida Senate. Throughout his career, he earned a reputation as a principled conservative, a steadfast advocate for fiscal responsibility and government transparency, and a tireless supporter of America's space program and the communities he proudly represented along Florida's Space Coast. Bill will be remembered with gratitude, admiration, and profound respect. His dedication to public service, his love for Florida, and his steadfast belief in the promise of America will never be forgotten. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Beatrice Posey, brother, Bob, and nephew, Robbie. He is survived by his wife, Katie, brother, Wayne (Liza), daughters, Pam Persse (Mike), Cathi Householder (Jeff), God- daughter Melissa Dietel (Warren), grandchildren, Billy Carson (Sarah Grace), Clarke Henry (Curtis), Katie Leyte-Vidal (Daniel), Hunter Persse, Tanner Dietel, and five great- grandchildren.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to include in the Record the following proclamation on behalf of the National Garden Club, and their President Donna Donnelly of South Carolina, in honor of Memorial Day. I especially appreciate the significance of Garden Club as my mother, Wray Wilson, was an active member of the Garden Club of Charleston and was Garden Editor of The News and Courier. Whereas, on July 4, 1776, the United States of America was founded upon the enduring principles of liberty, self- governance, and the inherent dignity of all people; and Whereas, for 250 years, the American nation has stood as a beacon of hope, inspiring free peoples around the world to pursue democracy, justice, and peace; and Whereas the alliance between the United States of America and the French Republic is among the oldest and most cherished in modern history, forged in the cause of independence and strengthened in the shared defense of freedom; and Whereas, during the Second World War, the soil of Normandy became hallowed ground through the courageous sacrifice of American servicemen who crossed an ocean to liberate Europe from tyranny; and Whereas, on June 6, 1944, the Allied forces, including brave Americans, embarked upon the largest amphibious invasion in history, forever altering the course of the war and ensuring the restoration of liberty to the continent; and Whereas the Normandy American Cemetery stands as a solemn testament to the valor, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of those who gave their lives in service to a cause greater than themselves; and Whereas, Memorial Day in the United States is a sacred occasion to remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms, both at home and abroad; and Whereas the year 2026 marks the Semiquincentennial of the United States, a moment to reflect upon our shared history, reaffirm our principles, and honor the enduring bonds of friendship with our allies; Now, therefore, I, Joe Wilson, Member of Congress of the United States and a member of the House Armed Services Committee, do hereby offer this proclamation in solemn tribute: That on this hallowed ground at Omaha Beach, we honor not only the fallen heroes of June 6, 1944, but all those who have borne the burden of defending liberty across generations; That we express, with profound gratitude, the enduring friendship between the people of the United States and the people of France, whose shared sacrifices have secured peace and freedom for countless millions; That as we commemorate 250 years of American independence, we recommit ourselves to the ideals for which these brave souls fought and died--freedom, justice, and the unyielding pursuit of peace; And that we pledge to carry forward this sacred legacy, ensuring that the bonds of alliance between our nations remain strong, and that the sacrifices of the past shall never be forgotten. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand on this Memorial Day, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty- six.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly has graciously agreed to host its 2027 annual session in Charleston. The conference in America will be the first since 2005. The assembly of the OSCE will bring over 300 parliamentarians with hundreds of support staff and worldwide media from 57 countries to Charleston to draft, debate, and vote on resolutions. This conference will reinforce American leadership, with President Donald Trump achieving historic unity of allies in the Western Hemisphere, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. As co-chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, the U.S. Helsinki Commission, I look forward to working in my birthplace of Charleston with Mayor William Cogswell. Charleston is recognized as the most British city in America. Mr. Speaker, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting peace through strength through revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, as last night Putin murdered Ukrainian civilians with attacks, and Putin provides targeting intelligence to Iran to murder American troops.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of National Police Week, Americans appreciate all officers while honoring those who were wounded or lost their lives in the line of duty. This year, we honor the following officers of South Carolina, who were added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial wall: F. Devin Mason, Nathaniel M. Ansay, Will G. Durant, Michael Charles Wood, Dennis D. Ricks, Jr., and Mark S. Reynolds. They all served in the tradition of the late Greg Alia of Forest Acres. House Republicans stand alongside these courageous heroes. This week, there is legislation of commitment to those who serve our country, and we must restore law and order. Mr. Speaker, I respect my hometown police chief, Andrew ``Bear'' Richbourg of Springdale. God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, shamefully breaking the victory day cease-fire. As war criminal Putin bombs civilian homes, Ukrainian parents provide their children at night with whistles to assist in recovery as Putin attacks their homes and murders children.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful that President Donald Trump has achieved deregulation, created jobs, and strengthened opportunities for American families and new graduates. In the first 100 days, President Trump achieved his goal by reducing regulations. This goal continues as, last month, House Republicans, led by Speaker Mike Johnson, passed two bills that refocused on deregulation, improved infrastructure, lowering costs for families, and choosing results over radicalism. Promises made, promises kept. Superstars of deregulation are: Education Secretary Linda McMahon, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and NRC Commissioner David Wright. Mr. Speaker, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting peace through strength through revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, providing satellite targeting information to kill Americans and Israelis. Courageous Ukrainians provide whistles to children at night to help in recovery efforts as war criminal Putin bombs their homes.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on May 9, 2026, we will celebrate the 81st birthday of Patricia Lou Keating of Chicago, Illinois. Ms. Keating was born on May 9, 1945, in Chicago to Marie and Louis Kalowski, as the younger sister to Carol Gregory. Patricia has lived the American dream working to serve the community until her retirement earlier this year. She has raised three daughters; Karen Roder, Jackie MacHarg, and Heather Perez. I am grateful for Patricia's service to the community and for sharing her grandson, Michael MacHarg, II, an invaluable contributor to our office. I wish Patricia Keating a Happy Birthday, and best wishes for many more.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last year I appreciated meeting the President of Yemen, Rashad al-Alimi, during the Munich Security Conference. We both identified Iran as the head of the snake of terrorism. Yemen deserves independence from Iran and its Houthi puppets. War criminal Putin and the Chinese Communist Party support the Houthis. Sanctions of President Trump on Houthis promotes sovereignty of Yemen with Saudi Arabian aid. Free Yemen from Iran. As a grateful native of Charleston, South Carolina, which was named in honor of King Charles II, along with Mayor William Cogswell, I was honored to be on the Escort Committee for King Charles III and for having met Queen Camilla earlier at the British Embassy, promoting the most British City in America--Charleston, South Carolina. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops as the Global War on Terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting Peace Through Strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, welcoming mass murdering Iranian officials to St. Petersburg this week. Our sympathies to the family and friends of Citadel Cadet Evan Greenleigh, upon his death last weekend.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as a Congressional UK Caucus co-chair, I rise today along with my colleagues and fellow co- chairs, Congressmen Gabe Amo, Jim Himes, and David Rouzer, to recognize Lyndon Hughes-Jennett. It is with great respect and admiration that I recognize the outstanding service of Lyndon Hughes-Jennett, who has served as Northern Ireland Attache at the British Embassy in Washington since 2021. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Hughes-Jennett has played a vital role in strengthening the relationship between the United States and Northern Ireland and in advancing engagement among partners in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. In his role, Mr. Hughes-Jennett worked tirelessly to foster constructive dialogue with Members of Congress, U.S. officials, and a wide range of stakeholders. He was instrumental in supporting visiting delegations from Northern Ireland, facilitating meaningful exchanges that deepened understanding of Northern Ireland's political, economic, and cultural landscape. His efforts helped ensure that Northern Ireland's priorities were well represented and thoughtfully conveyed to audiences across the United States. Mr. Hughes-Jennett's service was further exemplified by his involvement in high level engagements, including accompanying President Joe Biden during his visit to Northern Ireland for the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Belfast-Good Friday Agreement. Throughout his time in Washington, he demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, and a steadfast commitment to partnership, serving as a trusted interlocutor and a bridge among communities and nations. As Mr. Hughes-Jennett concludes his service at the British Embassy, we extend our sincere appreciation for his dedication and contributions. His work has had a lasting and positive impact on U.S.- Northern Ireland relations, and we wish him every success in his future endeavors.