Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Representative Carol Shea-Porter for introducing this resolution and my colleagues, led by Representative Robin Hayes, on the Armed Services Committee, for bringing it to the floor for our consideration. As a proud co-sponsor, I am honored to have this opportunity to celebrate the United States Marine Corps and recognize their 232 years of service to our Nation. On November 10, 1775, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution that called for two battalions of marines to be raised for use as naval infantrymen. From that day forward, marines have defended this Nation in every American military conflict. They first saw combat in the Bahamas in 1776 under the leadership of Captain Samuel Nicholas, the officer who is considered by most to be the first marine commandant. Though the Marines were disbanded following the Revolutionary War, they were reestablished on July 11, 1798, and from that day forward have protected and defended Americans and our allies around the world. From Europe to the Philippines, South America to Asia, and the Middle East, marines have fought in every corner of the world. In addition to traditional military duties, marines protect our embassies and dignitaries around the world. They have served in a humanitarian capacity bringing relief and aid to citizens of other nations as well. In the global war on terrorism, 76,000 marines have been deployed to Iraq to help establish peace, root out insurgent remnants and al Qaeda terrorists, and bring stability to that young democracy. I am grateful for my son, a naval doctor, who is working with the marines in Iraq today. As part of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, marines have helped topple the repressive Taliban regime and dismantle the al Qaeda network. For their service on these two fronts of the global war on terrorism, marines have been decorated with thousands of honors and medals. These decorations include 7,720 Purple Hearts for wounds suffered during combat, and 866 Bronze Stars with ``V'' for exceptional valor in a combat situation. Since the inception of the United States Marine Corps, 298 marines have earned the Congressional Medal of Honor, our Nation's highest military honor. On a personal note, the Second District of South Carolina, which I have the honor of representing, is home to Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort and Parris Island. All marine recruits east of the Mississippi River go through Parris Island. Marines are the most elite fighting force in our military. Their reputation for professionalism and selfless duty has earned them the thanks of a grateful Nation and the appreciation of millions around the world over two centuries of service and sacrifice. My late father-in- law, Major Julian Dusenbury, and my late brother-in-law, Captain Tim Dusenbury, were proud marines, and our family especially appreciates the service of the Marine Corps. On behalf of my colleagues in the House of Representatives and the American people, I want to thank the tireless men and women of the United States Marine Corps for their service and sacrifice. Each and every day they are working to protect our Nation and our allies around the world. I encourage all my colleagues to join me in supporting and expressing our most humble appreciation for the few, the proud, the Marines. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Having no further speakers, I would like to make one further statement. Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity, 2 years ago, of visiting in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, where the Marine Corps ably served to assist the people of Pakistan in their recovery from the horrific incidents of the earthquake. And it was so reassuring to visit and see the hospital that they set up, with female doctors, due to the cultural concerns of the people in that region. It had just an extraordinary impact. I had the privilege of meeting with President Musharraf, who indicated that at that time the most famous toy, the most appreciated toy, in all of Pakistan was the Chinook helicopter, representing the deep affection of the people of Pakistan for the Marine Corps and their service. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3793, as amended, a bill to ensure that military personnel who die or who are retired or separated for medical reasons are paid their full enlistment or re- enlistment bonuses and are not subject to repayment of any portion of those bonuses. Last month, media stories sparked outrage among Members of Congress and citizens alike when they highlighted what appeared to be a potentially widespread practice by the Army and Department of Defense. Media reports stated that wounded servicemembers who could no longer continue on active duty because of those wounds were being required to repay portions of their enlistment or re-enlistment bonuses because they had not fulfilled the terms of their contracts. In some cases, the Army was cited as demanding repayment of thousands of dollars from soldiers who, but for their wound or injuries in combat, continued to serve the Army in this Nation honorably. What the media failed to report completely was that the Department of Defense and the military services had an active policy in place that addressed this problem. The policy did the following: first, in cases where a servicemember died, not at the result of his or her own misconduct, the unpaid portions of an enlistment or re-enlistment bonus would be paid to the servicemember's survivors, and there would be no requirement to repay already paid bonuses. Second, when the servicemember was unable to complete an enlistment or re-enlistment due to circumstances reasonably beyond the service- member's control, no already paid bonus would be recouped. Finally, the Secretaries of the military services had broad discretion, on a case- by-case basis, to forego recoupment and pay out unpaid portions of bonuses. H.R. 3793, as amended, captures and codifies the most effective parts of the existing DOD policy, and goes beyond that policy. When enacted, H.R. 3793 will guarantee that a servicemember who dies or is retired or separated for medical disability will not be required to pay any portion of a bonus or similar benefit that they had received. It mandates that the full contracted amount of any unpaid bonus or similar benefit be paid, as appropriate, to the estates of servicemembers who die or to servicemembers who are retired or separated due to a disability. And it mandates that payments are to be made not later than 90 days after the death, retirement, or separation of the servicemember. Additionally, if a service Secretary determines that requiring repayment or withholding payment of the unpaid bonus would be contrary to a personnel policy or management objective, against equity and good conscience, or be contrary to the best interests of the United States, then they would be allowed to waive repayment or to continue payment of unpaid bonuses. Discretion should be allowed for the most beneficial interpretation in favor of our courageous servicemembers. H.R. 3793 is a good bill, and I urge all my colleagues to join me in supporting it. Our servicemen and -women deserve our most humble thanks, and this bill would ensure that we are honoring their sacrifices by not denying them or their families their due pay. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield so much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Broun).

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield so much time as he may consume to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Jones).

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I want to thank Representative Ginny Brown-Waite for introducing this resolution and my colleagues on the Armed Services Committee for bringing it to the floor for our consideration. As a proud co-sponsor, I am honored to have this opportunity to recognize the contributions of our citizen soldiers in the United States National Guard. From the earliest days of our country's founding to today, average Americans have stepped forward to serve their Nation. Soldiers of the National Guard have served in every major combat throughout our great history, and since September the 11th, they have taken a tremendous role in support of the global war on terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan. Since these terrible attacks 6 years ago, 329,982 members of the National Guard have been mobilized for military operations around the world. Unlike their traditional military comrades, National Guard members are not career military soldiers. They are most often employed in other careers and serve when called upon to assist with combat operations and as first responders during domestic emergencies and rescue and recovery situations. This unique role underscores an immense dedication to their patriotic duty and to this Nation. As a 31-year veteran of the Army Reserve and National Guard, I am honored to have known and worked with many of these extraordinary and dedicated individuals. My former unit, the 218th Mechanized Infantry Brigade of the South Carolina Army National Guard is currently serving in Afghanistan under the leadership of Brigadier General Bob Livingston. Its 1,800 troops are the largest deployment of National Guard since World War II. I have visited the troops in June, August and November, and I know firsthand they are training Afghani police and military forces to help that young democracy stand on its own two feet. The best way to stop terrorism is to deny terrorists safe havens anywhere in the world. Additionally, my son, Alan, was deployed with the South Carolina National Guard to Iraq, along with my son, Julian, with Guard service in Egypt. And my family and I are grateful for their service and the service of their comrades, led by Major General Stan Spears, America's longest serving adjutant general. Our family knows that National Guard membership is rewarding for service for America and for our State while receiving extraordinary opportunities for education, travel and meeting talented people of competence and patriotism. I encourage every American to consider National Guard service. With this resolution, we recognize the contributions of the Guard, but we also pledge to support their efforts with the necessary resources and express our deepest gratitude to the families whose loved ones serve this Nation. Above all, our deepest sympathies go to the families whose loved ones have been lost. On behalf of my colleagues in the House of Representatives and the American people, I want to thank the brave men and women of the Guard for their service. In times of peace and times of war, there they are working to protect our Nation and our allies around the world and the citizens here at home. I want to thank Representative Ginny Brown-Waite for introducing this resolution. I encourage all of my colleagues to join me in supporting it and expressing our most humble appreciation for the citizen soldiers of the National Guard.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield so much time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ginny Brown-Waite).

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, America's third quarter GDP grew at an impressive 4.9 percent. That means we have had 6 straight years of economic growth coupled with a record 51 straight months of job growth creating 8.3 million additional jobs. In the district I represent, the Nation's fourth largest cabinet company, the Elkay Cabinet Division, has announced a new manufacturing plant in Barnwell which will create hundreds of jobs. This job success is the product of the pro-growth tax policies that President Bush signed into law 4 years ago. There remains much more that we must do in order to promote strong economic growth. We need energy legislation that actually helps create new energy, health care reform that values individual choice over government mandate, and sensible tax reform. We must enact legislation--including a repeal of the Alternative Minimum Tax--that doesn't expand the burden of Washington spending on the backs of middle class Americans and small businesses. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. I want to thank my Republican colleagues for bringing this motion to instruct to the floor. It is important to me as a member of the Armed Services Committee, as a 31- year veteran of the Army National Guard, and as the parent of a soldier who has served in Iraq, with another son soon to deploy to Iraq. Additionally, our family is grateful to have two additional sons serving in the military. This motion to instruct is straightforward. It simply confirms that the representatives of the American people understand the consequences of our actions in Iraq and that we are not going to pull the rug out from underneath our brave soldiers. Congress should never act to undermine our troops and jeopardize the success they are achieving in Iraq today. Unfortunately, the strategy of precipitous withdrawal and defeat some continue to advocate has brought us to this point. The Democrat leadership has continued to propose legislation that aims to micromanage our military leaders and tie their hands as they stop the terrorists. This undermines the extraordinary gains by our troops that I have seen on my eight visits to Iraq, which has been possible by the surge led by General David Petraeus. We must not forget al Qaeda spokesman Zawahiri has declared Iraq and Afghanistan the central front in the global war on terrorism, and we must succeed in stopping terrorists overseas and protecting American families at home. This motion to instruct is a right opportunity for this body, for the leadership here in Washington to say with one voice that we are invested in success, that our aim is not to leave behind a failed Iraqi state where safe havens for terrorists will threaten American families. Our military should be able to count on our unwavering support for the fight in which they are engaged. Our colleagues in the Senate have already acted with near unanimous support, 94-3, to include the language of this motion in their authorization. Only three Senators voted against this, showing a unified United States Senate. They have gone on record recognizing that a failed state in Iraq would have dire consequences for the safety and security of the region, for American families, and for our allies around the world. It is imperative that we follow their lead. Again, I want to thank the ranking member, Duncan Hunter, for his leadership. He is a dedicated veteran and father of an Iraq veteran. And additionally, I want to thank my Republican colleagues for bringing this motion to the floor. I encourage all of my colleagues to support it and send a bipartisan message to our enemies and allies that we are committed to victory in Iraq and ensuring that Iraq does not become a failed state and a safe haven for terrorists.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues and friends this evening to honor the life of former International Relations Committee Chairman Henry Hyde. Throughout his 32 years in the House of Representatives, Congressman Hyde was a pioneer of conservative values and principles. As chairmen of the Judiciary Committee and the International Relations Committee, he fought to preserve the sanctity of life and to promote the tenets of freedom. His career is a testament to his character and his love for this country. It was all too fitting that President Bush honored this life and legacy earlier this year when he awarded Congressman Hyde the Medal of Freedom--America's highest civilian honor. For those of us who had the pleasure to know Chairman Hyde personally, we were touched by his immense dedication to public service, his integrity, and the wisdom he imparted to us all. He was a founding father of modern American Conservatism promoting the expansion of freedom and the limiting of government. I am grateful to have known and worked with this tremendous individual, and I am grateful for his service to this Nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Hyde family during this difficult time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and thank the Blue Cross/Blue Shield of South Carolina Foundation for the hard work on behalf of the citizens of South Carolina. The purpose of the Blue Cross/Blue Shield Foundation is to promote the health and well-being of economically disadvantaged South Carolinians through expanded access to quality and affordable health care. Through the awarding of grants, the foundation provides necessary resources to free clinics, health education programs, and school nursing programs. Realizing that it is often children and young adults most adversely affected by inadequate health care, the foundation focuses on providing grant money to services that will assist children and adolescents who are either uninsured or underinsured. This year they have embarked on a state-wide tour to recognize the $1.6 million in grants that they will be awarding. This is part of over $7 million in grants they have awarded since 2003. I want to thank the foundation's executive director, Harvey Galloway, and the CEO of Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Ed Sellers, for their strong leadership. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I am happy to congratulate Dave and Rochelle Wilson of Lexington, South Carolina, on the birth of their new baby boy. Grant Evan Wilson was born on October 25, 2007 weighing 7 pounds and 8 ounces. Grant joins seven siblings-- Bryce, Carly, Makenna, Caleb, Alyssa, Bennett and Owen. He has been born into a loving home, where he will be raised by parents who are devoted to his well-being and bright future. Dave and Rochelle are longtime friends, and I am so excited for this new addition to their family. On behalf of my wife Roxanne, and our entire family, we want to wish the Wilson family all the best.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to say farewell and best wishes to a long-time member of the Second District staff, Micki Work. Micki has been a member of the staff more than 5 years where she has served with integrity and professionalism. She will be leaving our office to join the Magazine Publishers of America as the vice president for government affairs. Micki came to Capitol Hill as an intern on the House Ways and Means Committee. After serving as a staff assistant to Representative Gary Miller of California, she joined our office as a legislative correspondent. Her hard work and dedication led her to assume the rule of legislative director, where she has been invaluable in helping me address the needs and concerns of the people of the Second District of South Carolina. A native of Hilton Head Island and a graduate of Hilton Head Christian School and Clemson University, Micki is the daughter of Dorothy Howard and the late Edward ``Mickey'' Howard. Our office will miss Micki tremendously, and we wish her well in all of her future endeavors. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as grateful Americans provide deserved tributes for our courageous veterans, I have fortunately been provided a profound poem from Clinton B. Campbell of Beaufort, South Carolina. [From the Journal of New Jersey Poets] My Veterans Day Prayer (By Clinton B. Campbell) Lord, when the pull of my bed lures me to stay another hour, please remind me of taps being played for the fallen, of the tears that reach my cheek after each name is read, the ones I knew personally and the ones old-timers talk about in awe. After the crowd stumbles through the Pledge of Allegiance I want to be there and listen with all my heart while the winner of this year's essay contest quiets the crowd reminding us of why we are paying our respects. When the closing prayer is read I want to look around in honor at my fellow vets, the men and the women in their timeworn uniforms. Let me see them as they were, splendidly marching forward with the courage that allows us to have a choice of whether we come here today or not.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a brave American who is serving our country with distinction. Private First Class Matthew T. Spaulding of Bluffton, South Carolina, was a recent recipient of the Army's Bronze Star with Valor for his heroic actions in Afghanistan. The former Bluffton High School quarterback has been deployed since January as an Army medic. On June 9th, PFC Spaulding was on patrol with his unit when their vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device. Suffering several wounds himself, Spaulding was able to come to the aid of one of his comrades who was severely injured. Through his quick and selfless action in the face of danger, Spaulding was able to save his fellow soldier's life. The Bronze Star with Valor is awarded to a soldier who has performed an act of heroism in combat. It is the fourth highest combat medal awarded to members of the armed services. I am grateful for PFC Spaulding's service, and for all the brave men and women who are fighting to protect our freedoms around the world. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as greatful Americans prepare for providing deserved tributes for our courageous veterans, I have fortunately been provided a profound poem from Clinton B. Campbell of Beauford, SC. My Veteran's Day Prayer Lord, when the pull of my bed lures me to stay another hour, please remind me of taps being played for the fallen, of the tears that reach my cheek after each name is read, the ones I know personally and the ones old-timers talk about in awe. After the crowd stumbles through The Pledge of Allegiance I want to be there and listen with all my heart while the winner of this year's essay contest quiets the crowd reminding us of why we are paying our respects. When the closing prayer is read I want to look around in honor at my fellow vets, the men and the women in their timeworn uniforms. Let me see them as they were, splendidly marching forward with the courage that allows us to have a choice of whether we come here today or not.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, long-time friend, Judge Sam Stilwell, a true Southern gentleman, recently retired from the South Carolina Court of Appeals after 11 years on the bench. Judge Stilwell's personal integrity and professionalism have earned him a well-deserved reputation as a fine judge and attorney. Judge Stilwell graduated from the University of South Carolina Law School, served as counsel to the late Senator Strom Thurmond, and was a colleague of mine in the South Carolina State Senate, ably representing Greenville County. I want to thank his wife Robin and their children and spouses: Rivers and Charlotte, Jason and Amanda, Allison and Bo, and Rob and Charlotte for their years of support. We are all proud that Rob is currently serving with the 218th Brigade Combat Team of the South Carolina Army National Guard in Afghanistan. South Carolina is grateful for Judge Stilwell's years of dedicated public service to his State and country, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to bid a fond farewell to a member of my staff, Brian Eisele. Brian will be leaving our office to join the staff of South Carolina Senator Jim DeMint. Although I will miss his presence, I am confident Brian will be a tremendous addition to Senator DeMint's staff. Brian came to the Hill earlier this year as an intern for Congressman Bill Shuster of Pennsylvania. His hard work, professionalism, thoughtfulness and personal integrity have been an enormous asset to the people of the 2nd District of South Carolina. He will certainly be difficult to replace. A graduate of the University of South Carolina, Brian is the son of David, an Iraq war veteran, and Denise Eisele of Aiken, South Carolina. South Carolina is proud of its native son, and I'm excited for Brian's success. I wish him all the best in the years to come. Brian has a bright future as a capable and competent public servant, and I look forward to working with him in the future. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome French President Nicolas Sarkozy and thank him for addressing the joint session of Congress this morning. As a person of French heritage, I know we are all grateful for his tribute to American veterans. France was our first ally in the American Revolution, as symbolized by the portrait of Marquis de Lafayette here in the Chamber. France remains an important partner in international affairs and a major investor in the American economy. I am grateful that the midlands of South Carolina is home to three Michelin tire manufacturing plants. The Associated Press has recognized President Sarkozy as a blunt and uncompromising pro-American conservative. With his leadership, I am confident our historic alliance will be strengthened as we pursue common goals of global economic development and face down a common enemy in the global war on terrorism. I look forward to working with my colleagues and our friends of France in promoting our vibrant partnership. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, it has been 8 weeks since the Senate passed the Military Construction-Veterans Affairs appropriations bill and joined the House in demonstrating overwhelming and bipartisan support for this legislation. Yet, for two full months, the Democrat leadership has refused to send this important piece of legislation to the floor. They refuse to give our veterans the funding they deserve. This week the majority will bring the VA bill to the floor attached to the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education appropriations bill. Rather than send these bills to the President on a stand-alone basis, something the Democratic leadership promised they would do, they are using this VA bill as a political tool to push through other legislation. As a veteran and military parent, I know it is time that our colleagues on the other side of the aisle stop using the military and our veterans as a political tool to help advance their other spending priorities. In conclusion, God bless our troops and we will never forget September the 11th.