Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today a Service of Worship in Remembrance of and Thanksgiving for Life was held for Maria Locke Boineau Macaulay at the historic First Presbyterian Church of Columbia, South Carolina. Services were conducted by Reverend Dr. David H. Lauten, with organist Thomas Russell, and soloist Emma Hagood. I am grateful Maria was the wife of my fellow former State Senator Alex Macaulay and my cherished Boineau second cousin. I include in the Record the following obituary that was published in the service bulletin: ``Maria Locke Boineau Macaulay passed away in the morning of July 17, 2024. Born in Columbia on January 11, 1943, Maria was the proud daughter of the late Edward ``Bru'' Boineau and Helen Gayle Bell Boineau. She attended Columbia High, where at 5'2'' and 95 pounds she earned the nickname ``Moose.'' A lifelong lover of books and the Gamecocks, she graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor's degree in English. ``After a brief stint in Charlotte, she returned to her home state and married her first (and only) husband Alex Macaulay of Columbia. In 1973, she moved with her husband and two children--also named Maria and Alex--to Walhalla, South Carolina where she established herself as a vibrant and active presence in the community. As a member of the Walhalla Presbyterian Church, she played in the hand bell choir with a focus and intensity that was truly something to behold. She worked years as an award winning and beloved substitute teacher at Walhalla High School. While the students never wished any ill will on their day to day teachers, they were always excited when they walked in the classroom and saw Mrs. Macaulay sitting behind the desk. In addition to her daily walks around Sertoma Field, she dedicated countless hours to the Oconee Public Library, delivering books throughout the county, serving as chairperson of the Library's Board of Trustees and as president of the Oconee County Friends of the Library. In 1999, she was appointed by the governor to the South Carolina State Library Board and would go on to chair its Board of Trustees as well. ``A devoted and exuberant mother and grandmother, Riri, as her six grandchildren called her, traveled across South Carolina and the mountains of western North Carolina taking them on vacations as well as attending an infinite number of sporting events, dance recitals, graduations, birthday parties, and other special and non-special occasions where she let the children know each and every time how much she loved them and how proud she was of them. ``Maria is survived by her husband, Alex Macaulay; her sister, Gayle Boineau Darby; her daughter, Maria Macaulay Sellers; her son, Alex Macaulay; a slew of grandchildren, Maria Locke Sellers, Sarah Calhoun Sellers, Eliza Maxwell Macaulay, Lee Edward Macaulay, Kate Eleanor Macaulay, and Julia Webster Macaulay; and an even bigger bundle of cousins, nieces and nephews.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul correctly condemned Biden for a lie that no American servicemembers were killed on his watch, ignoring the 13 murdered at the Abbey Gate. The lie cited by Mr. McCaul was underscored by three American reservists murdered by the Iranian puppet Hezbollah on January 28. As a grateful father of four sons who served overseas, it is sad Biden ignores the three murdered and conceals the others injured, even though I asked about their injuries on March 13. Corrupt Judge Merchan, orchestrated by the corrupt Biden Department of Justice, is backfiring--The Wall Street Journal today--reelecting Donald Trump, as Merchan earns my invitation to the Trump inauguration. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. We do not need new border laws. We need to enforce existing laws. Biden shamefully opens borders for dictators as more 9/11 attacks across America are imminent as repeatedly warned by the FBI. Our sympathies to those killed Monday at the Kyiv, Ukraine, children's hospital by war criminal Putin.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, the Biden border crisis threatens all American families at risk of murderous attacks. Since Biden, there have been 16 million illegal alien crossings. In April alone, there were 180,000 illegal alien crossings. This represents 38 consecutive months of higher illegal crossings than any month under President Donald Trump. In the last 7 months, more than 27,000 Chinese communist nationals illegally crossed, breaking the total of all of last year. The American people have exposed corrupt Judge Merchan, dismissing his unethical witch hunt with the achievement ultimately of electing President Donald Trump. Merchan will be warmly welcomed as my guest at the Trump inauguration. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism moves from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. We do not need new border laws. We need to enforce the existing border laws. Biden shamefully opens borders for dictators as more 9/11 attacks across America are imminent, as repeatedly warned by the FBI.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Mike McCaul responded the day after the bizarre Biden debate performance where Biden claimed no U.S. servicemembers died under his watch. Mr. McCaul correctly identified this claim as a lie as 13 were murdered in the Abbey Gate terrorist attack alone. Sadly, this year, three Georgia Army reservists were killed on January 28 by Iran puppet Hezbollah at Tower 22 in Jordan. America will not forget Specialist Kennedy Sanders, Sergeant William Rivers, and Specialist Breonna Moffett. The unintended reelection of Donald Trump by corrupt Judge Merchan is more evident every day. Polls for Trump overwhelmingly recognize judicial subversion with Merchan earning my invitation to be my guest for the Trump inauguration. In conclusion, God bless our troops who have successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism moves from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. We do not need new border laws. We need to enforce existing laws. Biden shamefully opens borders for dictators as more 9/11 attacks across America are imminent, as repeatedly warned by the FBI.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Chair, I rise today to offer an amendment to the State Department and Foreign Operations appropriations bill deeply rooted in our commitment to responsible governance and the ethical stewardship of the American taxpayer as evidenced by the great work of Congressman Diaz-Balart. Amendment No. 75 seeks to prohibit American taxpayer humanitarian funding in Syria from indirectly supporting the murderous regime of Bashar al-Assad, a known war criminal. Current appropriations law has established that taxpayer dollars do not go to the Assad regime. Sadly, however, it has been well-documented that taxpayer dollars have reached the Assad dictatorship. In 2022, a study presented at the Middle East Institute in Washington revealed a disturbing reality. Nearly half of the United Nations' aid funds in Syria were funneled to companies directly related to the Syrian Government, entities associated with serious human rights abuses. This raises profound concerns about systemic flaws in the United Nations' aid delivery process in Syria, including the questionable awarding of significant contracts to high-risk suppliers. In their powerful op-ed published February 12, 2018, in The Hill titled: ``Assad's Syria plays dirty with U.S. humanitarian aid,'' esteemed former U.S. officials, former Ambassador to Syria Robert Ford and Assistant Leader Mark Ward, both of the Obama administration, have recommended a cessation of funding to U.N. agencies responsible for delivering aid to Syria. They note this aid has become a weapon in the hands of the Assad dictatorship. Their rationale is clear: Such a bold move would not only assert U.S. leadership but also strengthen the international leverage against the mass murdering Assad regime. Furthermore, the Center for Strategic and International Studies in their October 2021 report outlined how the Assad regime systemically diverts international aid. By enforcing a distorted exchange rate, the regime siphons off nearly $0.51 of every aid dollar spent in 2020, bolstering its central bank, an entity sanctioned not only by the United States but also by the European Union and the United Kingdom. It is well-documented that the Assad regime also diverted critical earthquake aid as his regime and war criminal Putin continued bombing areas hardest hit by the earthquake 130 times. Our well-intended financial support has not reached those in dire need. Devastatingly, over half of the citizens of Syria, 14 million people, have forcibly been displaced from their homes, businesses, schools, religious institutions, and communities by the mass murderer Assad and war criminal Putin. Nearly a million have been brutally murdered as the U.N. stopped counting at half a million. Since the outset of the conflict, the United States has contributed humanitarian assistance to Syria. This generous support, funded by the American taxpayer, demands stringent oversight to ensure it achieves its intended goals. Therefore, the purpose of this amendment is clear: to ensure that every dollar spent is aligned with our national values and high standards of accountability that the American people rightfully expect. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment and to stand firm in our resolve to use American resources wisely and justly. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Chair, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I was grateful to participate in the Bipartisan Congressional Delegation for the 80th Anniversary of the Normandy invasion at the invitation of Speaker Mike Johnson and led by Majority Speaker Steve Scalise. A highlight of the program were the following remarks of Charles K. Djou, Secretary, American Battle Monuments Commission at the Normandy American Cemetery on Omaha Beach on June 6, 2024: ``President and First Lady Biden. President and First Lady Macron. Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the American Battle Monuments Commission's Normandy American Cemetery. Bonjour a tous et bievenue. D-Day is the hinge of history. It is here that America reflects the very best of its values. When America is at its best. When America sends its young, its brave, its best, to fight, America does not fight---- --for a king or a crown --not for a sect or a denomination --not for a motherland or a fatherland And America most certainly does not fight for conquest, or plunder, or enslavement of another people. Rather, at its best, when America asks its young and brave to serve, to sacrifice, and yes, sometimes make the ultimate sacrifice, America fights for simple values. The values of Freedom, Liberty and Democracy. And when the job is done, when the mission is accomplished, when America and her allies have taken down the tyrant and stood up democracy of the people, America does something utterly unique in the history of mankind--we go home. All that America asks for in return for this sacrifice of our young is a few small plots of land to bury our dead who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of freedom. You are all seated here in one such small plot of land--the Normandy American Cemetery. That is why---- --this Date, June 6th --this Place, Normandy --this Ceremony, here is a reminder to us of the real cost of war and the real price of liberty. It is a price that we paid on D-Day 80 years ago. It is a price we remind authoritarians today that, if necessary, we will pay again to ensure the survival of freedom. --France knows. --The United States knows. --We know. --La France le connait --Les Estas Unis les connaissent --Nous connaissons That the world's most powerful weapon system is --not a T-72 manned by mercenaries --not a Fujian aircraft carrier patrolling artificial islands --not a suicidal terrorist killing innocents No, it was, it is, and it shall forever be a free people willing to fight for freedom. This is what today is all about. Thank you for coming, here. Thank you for remembering, here. Thank you for renewing your faith in freedom, here. Je voudrais dit, merci beaucoup. May the good Lord, bless you, your family, France and the United States of America.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I was having a medical procedure and was unable to be

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Collin Lee Teem, of Lexington, South Carolina, was Killed in Action in Ukraine on May 11, 2024. I am greatly saddened by his death and humbled by his sacrifice. Collin is a true American hero, who sacrificed his life fighting for freedom and democracy in the Global War on Terrorism and the War of Dictators Invading Democracies. As citizens throughout our community continue to cope with this tragic loss, my thoughts and prayers will remain with Collin's family, his friends and his fellow service members. I include in the Record the following obituary for Collin Lee Teem: Collin Lee Teem, age 23, was born March 30, 2001 in Florida. His family moved to Lexington, South Carolina in 2002 where he lived and grew up the remainder of his childhood. He graduated high school in June 2019 then followed his dreams, and in July 2019, left for the United States Marine Corp Boot Camp. Collin then spent the next 4 years as a machine gunner in infantry. During his Marine Corp active duty time, he received Good Conduct medal, National Defense Service medal, Global war on Terrorism Expeditionary medal, Global war on Terrorism Service medal, Sea Service Deployment ribbon (2), Sharpshooter Rifle Qualification badge, and Expert Pistol Qualification badge. Collin also completed Advanced Machine Gun training/course. Collin received an honorable DD214 discharge middle of July 2023. Teem then went on to volunteer his skills and military services to join the fight in Ukraine in their time of need. Collin left the United States in Sept 2023 and arrived in Kyiv where he then joined forces with International Legion of Defense. Collin served with Ukraine from September 2023 until he was unfortunately Killed in Action on May 11, 2024. Collin Teem's passions were evident in his life. He lived a life passionate about his hobbies, fun experiences, military service, and freedom. He lived life to the fullest and always tried to lighten the load of others around him--physically and mentally. He brought laughter to many. His enthusiasm and smile were infectious. It's been said that All people die but not All people live, Collin lived! He accomplished and packed so much in his short 23 years. He did what he loved. He touched countless lives by simply just being himself. Many have said he marched to his own beat which lead to many ``Teem Shenanigans'' as his Marine Corp leadership once told us. Collin leaves behind his mother, father, 3 brothers, 1 sister, 2 nephews, 2 nieces, as well as grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, countless friends, and military brothers and sisters. Collin Teem will always be remembered for his love of fishing, hunting, military service aka guns, warm weather, and a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. But most of all, for his dedication, determination, selflessness, heroism, and sacrifice for All mankind. He will be dearly missed by so many, near and far. Legend and Hero to all who knew him. #Forever23YoullBe His family will hold Memorial Services to Honor the Life of Collin both in his home town on the East Coast on July 6, 2024, as well as in a place he fell in love with, grew, and was stationed during his Marine Corp time--on the West Coast--in California--date TBD.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Lance Corporal B.A. Frazier on being named the South Carolina Highway Patrol Statewide 2023 Trooper of the Year by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS). This award is presented each year to a South Carolina law enforcement officer whose valorous acts go above and beyond the call of duty. Last year, after a late-night traffic stop for a speeding ticket, Lance Corporal Frazier was wounded when the driver opened fire before driving off. However, even with his injuries, he was heroically able to get a detailed description of the vehicle, which helped the eventual apprehension of the suspect shortly after. Upon receipt of his Trooper of the Year recognition, Commander of the SC Highway Patrol, Colonel Christopher Williamson said, ``Lance Corporal Frazier exemplifies the Highway Patrol's core values of selfless service, integrity, and responsibility, even in the moments after he was shot on duty. His resilience in his recovery and determination to return to duty after this incident reflects the true spirit of a dedicated public servant. We very much appreciate the SC Sheriff's Association for recognizing Frazier with this honor.'' Lance Corporal Frazier is a Navy veteran who has been with Highway Patrol Troop 7 since 2018. He currently serves in Post A, which covers Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, and Hampton counties. Additionally, I would like to recognize Destany Hodgkins for being the Blythewood Telecommunications Center nominee for the 2023 Statewide Telecommunications Operator of the Year Award by the SCDPS. I am grateful to Lance Corporal Frazier and all those in the South Carolina Highway Patrol for their service in protecting the families of the Second District and the Palmetto State.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, having the extraordinary opportunity to visit the people of Russia beginning in 1990 from St. Petersburg to Moscow to Novosibirsk to Chelyabinsk (which is the Sister City of my state capital, Columbia), I believe facts reveal that war criminal Putin's presidency is nonbinding and not a direct or legitimate representation of the Russian people. The inspiring people of Russia deserve better than endless corruption and dictatorship. War criminal Putin has shown time and time again that he is willing to subvert the law and the will of the people by continuing to enrich himself and his cronies. The United States should make it clear that it will not recognize desperate attempts by Putin to cling to power and continue murderous activities, enriching oligarchs across the globe. I have introduced bipartisan resolutions with Tennessee Congressman Steve Cohen noting that the election irregularities that kept Putin in power made his continuation in office illegitimate. In March 2024, H. Res. 1087 stated that ``. . . any attempt by the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin to remain in office beyond May 7, 2024, shall warrant nonrecognition on the part of the United States.'' Author, professor, and journalist David Satter, a former Financial Times Moscow correspondent and former senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, has documented the basis of overwhelming evidence, the September 1999 apartment bombings which brought Putin to power were carried out by the Russian security services, and that the Putin regime has been illegitimate since the first day of his accession to power. Satter's writings in National Review, August 17, 2016, and his book, The Less You Know, the Better You Sleep: Russia's Road to Terror and Dictatorship Under Yeltsin and Putin (Yale University Press), include the following analysis and perspectives: ``The bombings in the cities of Buynaksk, Moscow, and Volgodonsk killed more than 300 persons and injured hundreds of others. They were blamed without evidence on Chechen terrorists and used as a pretext to start a new war against the semi-independent Republic of Chechen. When Putin was put in charge of the war his popularity soared, making it possible for him to be elected as Russia's second post-Soviet president in March 2000. ``It is clear, however, that what had taken place was the greatest political provocation since the burning of the Reichstag. In an almost unbelievable slipup, Gennady Seleznev, the Speaker of the Duma and a close Putin associate, announced in the Duma on September 13, 1999, that a building in Volgodonsk had been blown up. The building that had blown up on that day was in Moscow. A building in Volgodonsk was blown up three days later, on September 16, 1999. ``On September 17, 1999, Vladimir Zhirinovsky, head of the Liberal Democratic party at the time, demanded an explanation from Seleznev on how he had known about the bombing in advance. Zhirinovsky stood at the podium in the Duma and shouted, ``Do you see what is happening in this country? You say an apartment building was blown up on Monday and it explodes on Thursday. This can be evaluated as a provocation.'' Seleznev refused to give a response, and Zhirinovsky's microphone was shut off while continuing to insist on one. ``In March 2002, Noviye lnvestiya, a daily newspaper published in Moscow, Russia, obtained the transcript of Seleznev's words on September 13, 1999, Which were: ``Here is a communication which they transmit. According to a report from Rostov-on-Don today, this past night, an apartment house was blown up in the city of Volgodonsk.'' When asked who informed him of the bombing three days in advance, he responded, ``Believe me, not [exiled oligarch Boris] Berezovsky,'' who had accused Putin of orchestrating the bombing. Seleznev then said that on September 13, 1999, he was referring to an explosion in Volgodonsk on September 15, 1999, that was part of a war between criminal gangs and caused no deaths. Even if Seleznev was referring to this explosion on September 15, how was he aware of it two days in advance, on September 13? ``On September 22, 1999, a fifth bomb was discovered and quickly deactivated in the basement of a building in Ryazan. The bomb was found to be planted not by Chechen terrorists but by agents of the Russian FSB. On September 24, 1999, Head of the FSB, Nikolai Patrushev, stated that the bomb was a dummy, planted as part of a training exercise in Ryazan. Although, the bomb tested positive for hexogen, the same explosive used in the four successful apartment bombings in Buynaksk, Moscow, and Volgodonsk. Not a single local government agency in Rayzan, including the local branch of the FSB, was informed in advance of the ``exercise,'' even though Russian law on civil defense requires any exercise in residential areas are planned and confirmed in advance with local officials. For two days, local authorities in Ryazan believed they were dealing with an attempted terrorist attack while official Russian media continued to inform people that an attempted terrorist attack had been averted and Russian air force began the bombing of Grozny, the capital city of the Chechen Republic. ``On February 2002, after three failed motions in the Duma to investigate the Ryazan incident failed due to opposition from the pro-Putin Unity party, a group of Duma deputies and human-rights activists formed a public commission to discover the truth on their own. Among these members were Sergei Yushenkov, Yuri Shchekochikhin, Anna Politkovskaya, and Alexander Litvinenko, who were all murdered by 2006. This developed a fear in people to investigate or question the September 1999 apartment bombings and how Putin came into power. ``The terror regime in Russia began with the 1999 apartment bombings, which served as a prelude for the attack on the Beslan school with grenades and flamethrowers that killed nearly 300 hostages, most of them children, in 2004, the shooting down of the MH17 civilian airliner in 2014 and the Russian war against Ukraine with its human wave attacks from the Russian side and hundreds of thousands of casualties. Speaking the full truth about the Putin regime is the first step toward ending the carnage'';

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today I am grateful to honor the remarkable life of Major William Henry Luther, a highly decorated hero of the Vietnam War, who will be laid to rest at the Dallas-Fort Worth Veterans National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas on June 20th. Major Luther, the brother of Second District resident and Publisher of Linc, Inc. community newspapers, Kirk Luther, also leaves behind wife Jackie Mae, daughter Tracey, son Robert, five grandchildren, one great grandchild, and numerous extended family members and friends. I offer my sympathy to his family. I include in the Record the following obituary for William Henry Luther: William Henry Luther, a veteran of the war in Vietnam and longtime resident of Edgecliff Village, Texas, passed away on December 10, 2023 in his home. Bill, as he was known to most, was born November 7, 1939 to Kirk Charles Luther and Elizabeth (Betty) Jane Luther in Berwyn, Illinois. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1956. Bill was first deployed to Korea where he served with a medical unit and was there when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. After Korea, Bill was deployed to Vietnam for three combat tours during the 60s. For his heroic actions as a helicopter pilot fighting in some of the bloodiest battles with the 1st Air Cavalry Division including the TET Offensive and the City of Hue, Khe Sahn, and the invasion of the A'Shau Valley, the U.S. Army recognized Bill for his honorable service with a Silver Star (one of the highest honors to be bestowed upon a combat veteran) the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star (1st OLC), the Purple Heart, the Air Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/DVC 60, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/PALM, Senior Army Aviation Badge, Army Aviator Badge, Armed Forces Reservice Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Civil Actions Medal (Unit Citation), Valorous Unit Citation and the Meritorious Service Medal. Bill was the true definition of a warrior and retired from military service with the rank of Major after 22 years, 5 months and 5 days from Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Bill married Jackie Mae Riddle on July 22, 1967 at Fort Rucker, Alabama, and together they raised two children, Robert and Tracey. After his retirement from military service Bill joined Defender Industries in Columbia, SC and was promoted to the Senior Operations Officer of the southwestern territory which included Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico. During that time he moved his family to Ft. Worth and eventually Edgecliff Village where he resided until his passing. Bill was an avid golfer and served two terms as an Alderman on the Edgecliff Village City Council. Bill is survived by his wife Jackie Mae Luther of Fort Worth, TX.; his daughter, Tracey Scancella and husband, Jimmy Aguirre; his son, Robert S. Luther and wife, Debra M. Luther, as well as five grandchildren, Jonathan Scancella, Joseph Scancella, Bradley W. Luther, Kristina K. Luther, Kelli M. Luther and one great grandchild, Theadore W. Luther; his brother, Kirk F. Luther and wife Kathy A. Luther along with 2 nephews, Aaron K. Luther and Nicholas C. Luther and two great nephews, Jonah Luther and Elijah Luther. William will be laid to rest with full military honors at Dallas Ft. Worth Veterans National Cemetery on June 20, 2024 at 11:00 am. Remembrances can be made by visiting Wounded Warrior Project at support.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, congratulations to Preston and Alyssa Grisham, of West Columbia, South Carolina, on the birth of their new baby daughter. Parker Hannah Grisham was born on June 6, 2024, at 11:44 a.m., weighing 7 pounds and 7 ounces at Lexington Medical Center, West Columbia. She has been born into a loving home, where she will be raised by her parents who are devoted to her well- being and bright future. Parker is also blessed with three wonderful grandparents, Mattie Grisham, Cindy Greenberg, and Todd Douty. Her birth is a blessing. On behalf of my wife Roxanne, and our entire family, we want to wish Preston, Alyssa, and Parker all the best.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, according to a recent Labor Department report, since Biden, prices have risen nearly 20 percent. This costs families $12,800 more annually to buy the basics compared to under President Donald Trump. Gasoline is up 56 percent; eggs are up 44 percent; baby food and formula are up 30 percent; electricity is up 29 percent. Corrupt Judge Merchan's unintended reelection of Donald Trump was confirmed today as I had breakfast with President Trump. Members of Congress from virtually every State and territory were enthusiastically united as we saw the judge earning my invitation to be attending the Trump inauguration. President Trump explained today that the judge is indicting him to the White House. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism moves from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. We don't need new border laws; we need to enforce existing laws. Biden shamefully opens the borders for dictators as more 9/11 attacks across America are imminent as repeatedly warned by the FBI.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Chair, continuing to support the courageous people of Ukraine is not only the morally right thing to do, but it is also best for American families. War criminal Putin's invasion is a prelude to a conflict which is death to Ukraine, death to Israel, and death to America. We are in a conflict we didn't choose, with dictators and rule of gun opposing democracies with rule of law. The war began with war criminal Putin invading Ukraine on February 24, 2022, and Iranian puppets invading Israel on October 7, 2023. We should always remember--and I was grateful to be at Normandy last week--that it was President Ronald Reagan in 1984 who stated: `` . . . isolationism never was and never will be an acceptable response to tyrannical governments with an expansionist intent.'' We know that Putin has claimed that he wants to restore the Soviet Union. He already has invaded Georgia. He has invaded Moldova. He has Russian troops in Armenia. He has threatened Estonia and Poland. We know that he will not stop. We must be successful in Ukraine.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Chairman, I oppose this amendment. Prohibiting the transfer of cluster munitions, specifically in the context of Ukraine, would have disastrous impacts on the Ukrainian ability to push back war criminal Putin's barbaric invasion of Ukraine. Russia is currently using every weapon in its arsenal, including cluster munitions, to murder civilians and hit civilian infrastructure. I have seen firsthand in Bucha, Ukraine, where families were forced from their homes, their hands tied behind their backs, and then the Putin troops shot members of the family in the head and buried them in the yard. We must fight back. Additionally, in the Indo-Pacific, it has been reported by Admiral Harry Harris that this is a deterrent to the dictatorship of Kim Jong- un of North Korea, and we know that is the largest artillery complex in the world facing the people of Seoul, Korea. We are in a conflict we did not choose with dictators with rule of gun invading democracies with rule of law, threatening civilians, and it has always been clear that Ukraine is the first invasion of this current conflict. With further promises by Putin to restore the Soviet Union by invading Georgia and Moldova, threatening Armenia, Estonia, and Poland, we know that we must support Ukraine. It is existential for Ukraine, and it is existential for the United States. We can see that today, as Putin has sent nuclear warships to Cuba, 90 miles away from our border. We must stand together with the people of Ukraine and provide them the best equipment to stop the war criminal Putin.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today I honor the remarkable life of Mr. Wayne Smith, who passed away on June 6, 2024, and offer my sympathy to his family. I am grateful for his service to our country as a distinguished maritime captain and an influential legislative figure, notably contributing to the U.S. House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries. His dedication to community service, creative spirit, and transformative mentorship leaves behind an enduring legacy of compassion and leadership. I include in the Record the following obituary for Wayne Smith: Wayne Smith was born on December 10, 1945, in Winchester, Massachusetts, where he grew up alongside his beloved sister Wendy, whom he adored. Wayne graduated from Abingdon High School in 1963 and went on to receive his bachelor's degree from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in 1968. His maritime career was distinguished by his service as a Captain, commanding U.S. Naval Oceanographic vessels and traveling the world. From 1975 to 1987, Wayne made significant contributions to the U.S. House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries. As Staff Director of the Subcommittee on Oceanography and the Subcommittee on Fisheries and Wildlife Conservation and the Environment, he played a pivotal role in shaping maritime and environmental legislation. Concurrently, he served as Chief of Staff to Congressman and Senator John Breaux of Louisiana, where his leadership and expertise were invaluable. In 1981, Wayne, joined forces with Senator John Breaux, who was then serving as the captain of the Mystick Krewe of Louisiana. Together, they conceived a grand and ambitious idea: Louisiana Alive! They aimed to celebrate and showcase the vibrant and diverse culture of Louisiana, extending beyond the well-known charm of New Orleans to include the rich traditions and unique flavors of all the state's parishes. Their vision was to create an event that captured the essence of Louisiana's music, cuisine, and heritage, offering an immersive experience that highlighted the best the state had to offer. In recognition of Wayne's extraordinary creativity, dedication, and inclusive spirit, Louisiana Alive! 2025 is set to proceed as a tribute to his legacy. This event will not only honor Wayne's contributions but also continue his mission of celebrating Louisiana's unique cultural tapestry. In 1987, Wayne founded ThePOTOMACGroup, where he served as President and CEO. Under his visionary leadership, the firm thrived, representing individuals, associations, and Fortune 500 companies with distinction. Wayne's commitment to community and education was evident in his service as Vice Chair of the Washington International School and his longstanding board membership with the CASI Foundation for Children, where he focused on adoption issues. Wayne celebrated 37 years of sobriety, during which he dedicated himself to helping others achieve the same, transforming countless lives through his unwavering support and mentorship. His crowning achievement came in 1999 when he and Don adopted their son, Qwan. As a devoted and supportive father, Wayne nurtured Qwan with boundless love and guidance, playing a pivotal role in his development into the remarkable gentleman he is today. Wayne's commitment to both his sobriety and his family is a testament to his character, illustrating the profound impact one person can have on the lives of many. His legacy of compassion and resilience continues to inspire all who knew him. Wayne's legacy is one of empathy, wisdom, humor, and stability. He will be remembered for his class, style, elegance, and fierce compassion. His cultivated appreciation for art and color enriched the lives of all who knew him. Wayne is survived by his loving husband, Don Schimanski; his cherished son, Qwan Smith; his nephews, David and Doug Deker; and many beloved in-laws, nieces, and nephews. Wayne's life was a tapestry of compassion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to those he loved and the causes he championed. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, congratulations to courageous Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the successful rescue of four hostages from Iranian puppets. Despite biased, fake news, Netanyahu knows the Hamas Covenant of August 18, 1988, Article 7 which states, ``The Day of Judgement will not come about until Moslems fight the Jews (killing the Jews), when the Jew will hide behind stones and trees. The stones and trees will say O Moslems, O Abdulla, there is a Jew behind me, come and kill him.'' A Netanyahu victory is essential, as we are in a war we did not choose of Dictators With Rule of Gun invading Democracies With Rule of Law, exemplified by war criminal Putin invading Ukraine on February 24, 2022 with mass murder. I was grateful to be invited by Speaker Mike Johnson to attend the D- Day 80th Anniversary in Normandy, France, to be reminded of President Reagan's historic speech of 1984, ``. . . isolationism never was and never will be an acceptable response to tyrannical governments with an expansionist intent.'' Every day we are reminded of corrupt, unethical Judge Merchan and his unintended achievement of re-electing Donald Trump with the judge earning my invitation for the Trump Inauguration. The unfairness of a Democrat prosecutor, Soros financed; a Democrat judge Biden contributor; and a Democrat jury in an old Democrat jurisdiction which should require a change of venue. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the Global War on Terrorism moves from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. We do not need new border laws; we need to enforce existing laws. Biden shamefully opens borders for dictators, as more 9/11 attacks across America are imminent, as repeatedly warned by the FBI.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, June 9, 2024, marks the 20th anniversary of the tragic death of Army Specialist Thomas Day Caughman of Lexington, South Carolina. Assigned to the 391st Engineer Battalion, Army Reserve, Spartanburg, SC, Thomas was killed while bravely serving America during Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a 20-year-old graduate of Lexington High School, Thomas had a deep appreciation for America as he included in each of his letters home with the words, ``Freedom isn't free.'' In a touching tribute to the duty he felt in securing freedom for America, and expressed love for his family, he wrote the following letter in case of his death to parents, Jane and Hamp Caughman, and sister Lisa: ``Dad, Mom, Sis I think sometimes why I did this and if it was worth it. Then I realize how important people like me are, we all know Freedom isn't never free and somebody must protect that, for my family and everyone who enjoys freedom. Sometimes I get angry because I realize that people take advantage of that. But many respect that also, so its worth it, doing my job as an American soldier I've done many things and seen many things most will never experience. I know the sacrifice to protect the U.S and more important my family and friends. If ya'll are reading this. I guess it means that I have lost my life on this world but started a new one in Heaven. Don't cry or worry about me, because I have died for my country and yall. We knew what may happen while I was here, but I think it was meant to be. . . . . . I really don't know how to end this but, carry on with your lives and remember you live in a great place, where men and women sacrifice so much for all of us. I love yall so, so much. Sincerely your son and brother, Thomas (PFC Caughman)'' As the grateful father of four sons who have served in Iraq, Egypt, or Afghanistan I especially appreciate the courage and extraordinary maturity of Thomas Caughman. He will always be cherished for his service which has for 20 years achieved protecting Americans from terrorist attacks in the continuing Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today I am grateful to recognize the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States of America and the Republic of Bulgaria. September 19, 2023, marks the 120th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States of America and the Republic of Bulgaria. The first United States Diplomatic Agent to Bulgaria, John B. Jackson, presented his credentials on September 19, 1903. The first Special Envoy and Minister Plenipotentiary of Bulgaria to the United States, Stefan Panaretov, presented his credentials to President Woodrow Wilson on December 22, 1914. Today Bulgaria is well represented in Washington by Ambassador Georgi Aanayotor who also was an election observer for the South Carolina Presidential Primary in the tradition of former Ambassador Elena Poptodorova. The enduring ties between the two nations are exemplified by the founding of the American College of Sofia, dating back to a school opened by American missionaries in Bulgaria in 1860. On September 25, 2023, the United States and Bulgaria held the second high-level Strategic Dialogue to advance their bilateral, regional, and global agenda and to further enhance cooperation as friends, Allies, and partners. The United States and Bulgaria stand together as North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Allies, determined to safeguard the freedom, common heritage, and civilization of their peoples, founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty, and the rule of law, seeking to promote stability and well-being in the North Atlantic area. They have signed numerous important documents in key areas, including defense and security cooperation, 5G security, civil nuclear cooperation, science and technology, and combating foreign disinformation and propaganda. The United States and Bulgaria stand united against aggression and terror, condemning in the strongest possible terms Russia's brutal and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine, and the heinous attacks on the Israeli people by the terrorist organization Hamas. Bulgaria remains committed to the collective defense, as exemplified by hosting a NATO battlegroup with United States participation, and by establishing a NATO littoral countries mine countermeasures task force to secure freedom of navigation in the Black Sea. Prior to becoming a NATO member and subsequently, as an ally, Bulgaria participated in the United States-led and NATO missions and operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, Kosovo, and the Mediterranean. Bulgaria was among the very first countries to denounce terrorism and pledge active support to the United States in the fight against terrorism following the attacks of September 11, 2001. Bulgaria provided overflight and basing rights at the town of Bourgas for Operation Enduring Freedom, representing the first stationing of foreign forces in Bulgaria since World War II, and Bulgaria deployed a nuclear, biological, and chemical protection detachment to Afghanistan as part of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). The United States and Bulgaria recognize that Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine has only underscored the geostrategic importance of the Black Sea region, and the need to ensure that the region remains free and secure from threats posed by Russia and other malign actors. The bilateral Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) was signed in 2006, regulating the status of forces, allowing for joint United States- Bulgarian military facilities, providing for bilateral and multilateral exercises, and facilitating the movement and temporary stationing of aircraft and vessels. Bulgaria continues to invest in defense capabilities, interoperability, and the development of a credible defense posture in cooperation with the United States, as exemplified by the purchase of sixteen F-16 Block 70 fighter jets from the United States, and intending to purchase United States Stryker combat vehicles. The United States and Bulgaria share the understanding that energy security is crucial component of national security, and Bulgaria has made significant progress in reducing its dependency on Russian energy resources and in diversifying its energy sector in collaboration with the United States. The two nations acknowledge the significance of intensifying their cooperation in innovations, research, and emerging technologies. The people-to-people exchanges between the United States and Bulgaria are vital for bolstering the bilateral relationship and Bulgaria has made progress towards meeting criteria for visa-free travel of Bulgarian citizens to the United States. The shared commitment to counter disinformation and hybrid threats was demonstrated by the signing of a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding on Countering Foreign Information Manipulation on September 25, 2023. The year 2023 marks the 80th anniversary of the historic rescue of 50,000 Bulgarian Jews during the World War II. It is acknowledged with regret and sadness that 11,343 Jews were deported to Nazi concentration camps from Macedonia, Thrace, and Pirot, territories administered by Bulgaria at that time. Bulgaria takes pride in its Jewish community and remains resolute in its stance against any forms of discrimination, intolerance, and antisemitism. The vibrant Bulgarian-American community is contributing to America's prosperity, including to its remarkable economic achievements, the preservation of its technological edge, and the enrichment of American culture and society, through its diverse talents, rich traditions, art, music, dance, cuisine, and language. Bulgaria's presence in the world's biggest library, the United States Library of Congress is marked with a collection of over 50,000 volumes of Bulgarian cultural heritage, brought together by the Library of Congress in collaboration with Bulgarian individuals and institutions since the 1880s. The American University in Bulgaria, the pioneer of American-style liberal arts education in Eastern Europe, has been delivering exceptional education for more than three decades. There are 41 Bulgarian Sunday schools in the United States, which are contributing to the preservation of Bulgarian language and traditions and to the cultural diversity in the United States. Bulgaria is the place of origin of the Cyrillic alphabet, which is currently taught in the Bulgarian Sunday schools across the United States. The Bulgarian Caucus in the House of Representatives was formed in June 2002 and the following year a group for friendship with the United States was formed in the National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria demonstrating a dedication to the bilateral relationship. America's most successful and enduring relationships are built on shared values.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, Census Bureau data confirms Trump has achieved the highest family take-home pay increase of any recent President. For middle-class families, Trump policies have raised real median income by $5,820. The tax and spend policies of Biden have actually cost American families real median income of a negative $2,080. Corrupt Judge Merchan, through unethical abuse of office, now unintentionally continues to re-elect Donald Trump with world record fundraising. The latest response by the American people to judicial persecution is an historic over $200 million for the Trump campaign. Merchan deserves a Trump inauguration invitation by me to sit with my grandson, Houston Wilson, during the ceremony. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism moves from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. We do not need new border laws; we need to enforce existing laws. Biden shamefully opens borders for dictators as more 9/11 attacks across America are imminent as repeatedly warned by the FBI.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the American people extend congratulations to the Honorable Lai Ching-te on being sworn in as President of Taiwan on Monday, May 20, 2024. His successful 28-year career in politics as Vice President and Premier under President Tsai Ing-wen, Chairman of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), 1st Mayor of Tainan, and Member of the Legislative Yuan demonstrates his ability to be a strong leader for the people of Taiwan. Additionally, the vibrant democracy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has elected Hsiao Bi-Khim as Vice President. During her four terms in the Legislative Yuan, she focused on agriculture and transportation in her district of Hualien, along with championing issues such as gender equality, foreign affairs, and human rights. My appreciation of the people of Chinese heritage is personal as I am the only member of Congress serving as the son of a Flying Tiger in World War II to liberate China. My father, First Lieutenant Hugh deVeaux Wilson with the U.S. Army Air Corps developed a great affection for the people of China. Lai Ching-te's presidency extends the rule of the DPP, which China views with skepticism, as the party promotes Taiwanese nationalism and identity, and supports the people of Taiwan's right to decide their own future. Taiwan continues to face rising threats from China, as almost daily, military warplanes and vessels are sent toward them, many of which crossing the median line in the Taiwan Strait. Sadly, incursions into Taiwan's air defense zone nearly doubled in 2022 and continued at a high pace in 2023 with 1,738 incursions. In December of 2022, 71 Chinese aircraft flew into Taiwanese airspace, the largest breach in history. On May 15, 2024, Taiwan's National Defense Ministry reported 45 Chinese military aircraft around the island, in just one day. With these growing tensions, the pressure on President Lai to balance security risks with promises of protecting the independence of Taiwan are high. Though the United States does not have official relations with Taiwan, the people of Taiwan have our unwavering support. We remain the island's most significant arms supplier and international backer, having approved over $8 billion in military aid last month in the National Security Supplemental Aid Package to support Taiwan and other key allies in the Indo-Pacific confronting Chinese aggression. President Lai's priorities for Taiwan align with his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen, with plans to boost defenses, including increasing military budgets, improving its military force structure, and concentrating on economical mobile weapons systems and more vigorous civil defense. Domestic reform is one of his top priorities, including social spending for the improvement of national health insurance and redirecting economic policy from motives for certain industries to developing more service sector jobs and encouraging domestic consumption. Lai has retained the majority of the Tsai team, including her foreign minister, Joseph Wu, who now leads his National Security Council, and former NSC head Wellington Koo, who now is the defense minister. He also recruited several private-sector executives for his cabinet, prominently JW Kuo, chair of Topco. Along with the Lai administration, I look forward to working with Taiwan's ambassador to the U.S., Ambassador Alexander Yui. The inauguration of President Lai Ching-te at the presidential office building in central Taipei featured an overwhelming amount of support for him, as crowds, including a show of marching bands and performers, gathered in a nearby plaza to show their support and listen to his inauguration speech. A bipartisan delegation of former senior U.S. officials, including former Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage, also attended the inauguration. Sadly, we are in a war we did not choose, between dictators with Rule of Gun invading democracies with Rule of Law. We must stand firm to protect the borders of Taiwan, Ukraine, Israel, and the United States. I am confident in the leadership of President Lai Ching-te as Taiwan continues to face adversities to keep their allies who acknowledge them as a sovereign nation, amidst pressure from the Chinese Communist Party. I look forward to working with President Lai Ching-te on achieving Peace Through Strength, advancing our shared interests, strengthening our longstanding informal relationship, and maintaining stability across the Taiwan Strait.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the Biden border crisis rages on, and American families are affected, including in their pocketbooks. At the start of 2023, the cost of illegal aliens crossing with Biden was over $150 billion. The burden of illegal aliens costs each American taxpayer nearly $1,200 annually. Corrupt Judge Merchan continues promoting the reelection of Donald Trump by relentlessly being bigoted and objectionable, earning an invitation as my guest to the Trump inauguration. The invitation was hand-delivered to New York to Merchan's office Monday by South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson. The shameful bias and bigotry of Judge Merchan has been exposed this week by esteemed Harvard law professor Alan Dershowitz as ``unethical, unlawful, and petty.'' In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism moves from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. We do not need new border laws. We need to enforce the existing laws. Biden shamefully opens borders for dictators, as more 9/11 attacks across America are imminent, as repeatedly warned by the FBI.