Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on August 26, remarks regarding the terrorist attack at the Kabul, Afghanistan, airport, with the murder of 13 American servicemembers, the Commander in Chief stated that military leaders have contacted him, `` . . . usually by letter, saying they subscribe to the mission as designed. . . . '' That evening, I sent the first of four letters to the White House asking for all letters referenced, with no reply. The decision to withdraw U.S. forces from Afghanistan abandoning Americans has been correctly identified by President Donald Trump as the worst foreign policy disaster ever for American families. This leads to murderous attacks over open borders into America. Where is the American media on this crucial issue of the claimed Afghanistan letters? Sadly, no response from the White House reveals admission of no letters. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism moves from the safe haven in Afghanistan to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, Biden took office only a year ago, and under a one-party Democrat rule, America is experiencing unprecedented adversity. Today, jobs are being destroyed, and we face crises in energy, education, crime, national security, the border, and more. Bidenflation is at the highest in 40 years, resulting in real wage decreases with job destruction. Energy independence has been replaced by energy dependence, raising gas prices by 50 percent. Remote learning is catastrophic for students and teachers. Defunding police leads to homicide rates at record highs. National security is endangered from feeble responses to China, Iran, Putin, and terrorists. Two million illegal aliens, including murderous terrorists, have crossed into America. Today is a tragic, historical landmark as our children are burdened by a $30 trillion debt. America needs new positive leadership. In conclusion, the Democrat elite think they are smarter than everyone and believe Democrat voters and Democrat media are ignorant to accept $5 trillion cost zero dollars.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the University of South Carolina Board of Trustees selecting Dr. Michael Amiridis as the new university president. As established by Dr. Harris Pastides, he continues the importance of Greek heritage so meaningful for the people of South Carolina. Having previously spent over 20 years on the USC campus, President Amiridis returns from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he has been chancellor. As President Amiridis is already familiar with the university community, I am confident that the school, branch campuses, and students will benefit from his appreciation of the extraordinary Gamecock traditions. Shortly after being selected, President Amiridis said, ``Through academics, research, and its vibrant culture, the university system is critically important to the people of South Carolina and to the State's future. I feel privileged to be able to lead this great institution.'' In conclusion, God bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism continues, moving from the safe haven in Afghanistan to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, last week in my district, under the leadership of Lisa Van Riper, Holly Gatling, and Sally Zaleski with South Carolina Citizens for Life, along with Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and Attorney General Alan Wilson, I was grateful to participate in the largest ever-attended pro-life events in the state. Tomorrow in Washington, the annual Pro-Life March will take place where thousands come together to embrace the birth of babies on the anniversary of the 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision. This increasing level of support is better understood than ever before. I am grateful to fight for pro-life values and am committed to advocating for the lives of the unborn, while also protecting the rights of health care providers who refuse to engage in abortions. The Democrat elite think they are smarter than everyone and think Democrat voters and Democrat media are ignorant to believe that trillion-dollar spending ``costs zero dollars.'' In conclusion, God Bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the Global War on Terrorism continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, my wife Roxanne, the Wilson family, and I would like to express our condolences to the family of William J. Wood. He, his late wife, Nancy, and his daughter, Lou, have been greatly appreciated civic and business leaders of the Midlands of South Carolina. With Eastman Chemicals, Midlands Technical College, and Nephron Pharmaceuticals, the Kennedy Family has provided innumerable people with meaningful jobs. I am grateful to include in the Record his obituary in fond remembrance. William J. Wood (June 23, 1937-January 16, 2022) Obituary of William J. Wood William Jerry Wood, of Lexington, passed away on Sunday, January 16, 2022 at his home. The son of the late Oscar Benjamin and Faye Hooper Wood, Mr. Wood was born in Commerce, GA, started his career at Eastman Chemical Company in Kingsport, TN, and made Lexington his home for more than a half century. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. As a young man, Mr. Wood's family moved around Appalachia. During this period, Mr. Wood's father was following his calling to serve Baptist congregations around the region, as a minister. His father also owned a dry cleaning business, in which the entire family pitched in. At the age of 18, Mr. Wood started his career at Eastman in Kingsport, TN, where the family had settled. Mr. Wood devoted more than four decades in leadership and management to Eastman Chemical Company. With the exception of his family, Mr. Wood did not take more pride in anything than his work. He left an indelible mark on the company and its employees, many of whom continue to pass down the lessons they learned working with Mr. Wood. He taught a Machine, Tool, Technology class to local technical college students for more than 15 years. The Midlands Technical College Life Skills Center is named in honor of Mr. Wood. Since opening in 2014, the center has helped Midlands Tech students prepare for life after school by honing essential skills needed to start a career. The father of Lou Wood Kennedy, Mr. Wood embraced life in the Midlands of South Carolina when he relocated his family here, in 1965, as he continued to grow in management at Eastman. Mr. Wood was active in community endeavors, such as service organizations like the Lions Club, hobby-focused clubs, such as the Antique Car Club of America South Carolina Chapter, and in the Baptist church. His daughter, beaming with pride, called Mr. Wood the greatest man she has ever known, and he loved watching the role she plays in making her own mark today on the community he chose as their family home. Mr. Wood met his wife, Nancy Thomas Wood, as a teenager. They dated as students at East Tennessee State University. His father married the couple. Mr. and Mrs. Wood celebrated 61 years of marriage last year. Surviving Mr. Wood are his daughter, Lou Wood Kennedy of Lexington (Bill); granddaughter, Xanna Bailey of Lexington (Travis) and great-grandson, Lincoln Bailey. Mr. Wood is also survived by Paul Wood (Mildred), Sarah Benson, Daniel Wood (Cara), Rebecca (Chuck) and countless nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The family wants to say a special thank you to Amya Bryant for the love and care she provided over the last five months.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, in a political environment where even Democrats have cited the Biden agenda as fiscal insanity, it is reassuring sanity may be returning with the Democrat Washington Post last Tuesday and Thursday being remarkably sane. On Tuesday, the lead editorial correctly reviewed, ``President Biden is facing mounting criticism for inflation's rise to its highest level since 1982. Unfortunately, the White House's latest response is to blame greedy businesses. Economists across the political spectrum are rightly calling out the White House for this foolishness.'' On Thursday, front-page headlines were shocking: Inflation for 2021 highest in 40 years. Trend expected to last for months. Prices become potent political threat to Biden. The Democrat elite think they are smarter than everyone and think Democrat voters and Democrat media are ignorant to believe that trillion-dollar spending costs zero dollars. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism continues, moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America, as sadly we saw with the suicide bomber who attacked the synagogue in Texas on Saturday.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I include in the Record the following obituary for Lieutenant Colonel Gregory Sean McSween. LtCol Gregory Sean McSween

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Owens for yielding and for his leadership on this issue. I rise today in support of the Supplemental Impact Aid Flexibility Act. The pandemic has had a dramatic impact on our school systems and the way students are learning, both in and out of the classroom. Many parents have made the decision to homeschool their children due to uncertainty around vaccine and mask mandates in schools. With many resources of local educational agencies dedicated to fighting the pandemic, it has also become a burden on them to maintain an accurate count of federally connected students. I am grateful for the bipartisan leadership today of Chairman Scott and Ranking Member Foxx, who support this legislation. This bill takes proactive measures to ensuring that teachers and students are adequately supported when returning to the classroom. By allowing local educational agencies to use the same number of federally connected students that they enrolled on their fiscal year '22 applications as they do fiscal year '23 applications, we can allow them to focus on recovering from the pandemic and serve the children of our United States servicemembers adequately. As a representative of Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, and also nearby Fort Jackson in Georgia, ably represented by Congressman Rick Allen, we have multiple beneficiaries of Impact Aid funding. I am grateful to support this legislation and encourage my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. As we reach the one-year anniversary of President Biden in office, I borrow from the great Ronald Reagan and his extraordinary question during the 1980 Presidential debate and ask: Are you better off today than you were a year ago? The obvious and sad answer of thinking Americans is no. Since President Biden took office January 20, American families have suffered under a one-party Democrat rule, destroying jobs. The continued taxing and spending policies of Biden and Democrats have caused inflation. This situation is getting worse and will challenge our children's future, while threatening the savings of retirees. Bidenflation has hit the highest rate in 40 years, and the astronomical price increases that come with that affect all of our pocketbooks. A few examples include, gas is up 56 percent higher than over a year ago. Propane, kerosene, and firewood are up 40 percent. Beef and bacon are up 19 percent. Chicken is up 10 percent. Compounding this damaging effect, most workers have not received wages that keep up with inflation, according to The New York Times. Families have actually lost possibly $5,000 in just one year. Also, the December Jobs Report came in at less than half where economists projected. Since President Biden took office, he has failed to protect our southern border. Over 1.7 million illegal aliens have invaded, benefiting the drug cartels and benefiting the horror of promoting human trafficking. Energy independence has been replaced by energy dependence, resulting in skyrocketing costs. President Biden's policies worldwide have been disastrous. A feeble response to Putin is putting Ukrainian families at risk of mass murder with already 14,000 people killed; bowing to China as it continues the genocide of weaker Muslims; capitulating to Iran as it shouts death to America, death to Israel; appeasement of Afghanistan leading directly to thirteen American heroes murdered; leaving Americans behind and establishing Afghanistan as a safe haven to attack American families with suicide bombers, as we saw claimed this weekend at the Texas synagogue. American families have never been at greater risk of attack than they are today in American history. The Democrat elite think they are smarter than everyone, and they think Democrat voters and Democrat media are ignorant to believe $5 trillion in spending costs zero. That is a direct quote from the President. So I ask the rhetorical and famous question again. Are you better off today than you were a year ago?

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the December jobs report came in at less than half of what was projected. People continue to suffer at the hands of the Biden and Democrat policies. Jobs are being destroyed. A recent national poll found that 68 percent of respondents said the economy was a top concern. Inflation is a tax on all Americans, and it has gone up every month since the Biden Presidency. Gasoline is up 58 percent; propane, kerosene, and firewood are up 34 percent; bacon is up 21 percent; and hamburger is up 20 percent. Real wages have decreased under Biden in 8 of his 10 full months in office, with a loss of $5,000 per family. The Democrat elite think they are smarter than everyone, and Democrat voters and Democrat media are ignorant to believe that trillions of dollars cost zero dollars. In conclusion, God bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. Sadly, we are in day 151 of Americans left behind, as cited by Sean Hannity.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on Friday, I completed an annual districtwide legislative agenda media tour. The issue of greatest concern was inflation affecting everyday people and gas up 61 percent. Bidenflation has surged to a 40-year high. It is clear that $4.5 trillion spending bills devastate pocketbooks. Even a recent analysis from the Federal Reserve of San Francisco agrees that the relief package has impacted inflation. Sadly, only 17 percent of workers have received raises that have kept up with inflation, according to the Democrat New York Times. The Democrat elite think they are smarter than everyone and think Democrat voters and Democrat media are ignorant to believe that trillion-dollar spending bills cost zero dollars. In conclusion, God bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years in the global war on terrorism, as it continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. Congratulations to Congressman Mike Waltz and Dr. Julia Nesheiwat on the birth on January 7 of Arman ``Armie'' Waltz.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, my deepest sympathies go out to the family of Lewis Earl Powell, Jr. He was someone that was cherished by his family and community. His wife, Millie Powell, has been a valued member of the Congressional staff of the Second District and this is a loss for us all. Obituary of Lewis Earl Powell, Jr. Lewis Earl Powell Jr., 78, of Cayce, left his earthly home surrounded by his loving family, on Wednesday, December 22, 2021. He was born October 9, 1943, in Johnston, SC to the late Cora Harris Powell and Lewis Earl Powell, Sr. Lewis was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was employed with 3M National Advertising for many years and later the owner and operator of Powell Sign Company, Inc. His kindness, generosity, and humor were known by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife of 41 years Mildred ``Millie'' Powell; his children: Teresa Rinder (Johnny), Dawn Kimura, Kristian Hall (Michael), and Scott Dorsey (Victoria); grandchildren: Joshua Rinder (Elizabeth), Jeremy Rinder (Whitney), Amber McCormick (Rhett), Corali Kimura, Amelia Kimura, Brandon Dorsey, and Brianna Dorsey; four great- grandchildren; his sister, Sandra Holmes; his brother, Laverne (Carolyn) Powell; and a beloved sister-in-law, Wanda Gunter. He was predeceased by his brother, Jimmy Powell; and his sister, Sara Bryan. A private graveside service will be held at Celestial Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Prisma Health Hospice. The family wishes to thank the staff at Prisma Health Hospice and extend our deepest graditude to Dr. Karin Jenkins and nurse Freia W. for their compassionate care.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, congratulations to a great South Carolinian for his service, Earl E. McLeod, Jr. upon his retirement. Earl served as the Executive Director for the Building Industry Association of Central South Carolina from 1983 to 2021. Prior to working at the BIA, Earl was the District Administrator and campaign manager for Congressman John L. Napier of South Carolina, as well as a national sales manager for Aluminum Ladder Company. In 2001, Earl was inducted into the South Carolina Housing Hall of Fame and received the Distinguished Alumnus Award for Francis Marion University in 1996. He is a NAHB Gold Key Member. He has been a member of the Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Vice Chairman of the Lexington County Planning Commission, Member of the Home & Garden Show Executives International, member of the Board of Directors for Community Open Land Trust and a member of the Lexington Technology Center Advisory Board. He currently sits on the South Carolina Residential Builders Commission. Best wishes to Earl and Judy McLeod beautiful home on Lake Murray.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, congratulations Coach Lou Holtz for being awarded the Contributions to College Football Award from the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA). The purpose of the NCFAA is to enhance the integrity, influence, and prestige of college football's various awards. Coach Holtz is the only college football coach to lead six different football programs to bowl games and the only one to lead four programs to the final top 20 rankings. The University of South Carolina cherish his dedicated service and success in Columbia. He defined college football and will forever be invoked in this era. Coach Holtz was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame on May 1, 2008.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I would like to take the time to remember a friend and great South Carolinian, Henry Clyde Harrison, Jr. Henry was someone that dedicated himself to the safety of his community as a Highway Patrol officer and worked to bring people together. He was instrumental in the development of American services and creating over 5,000 jobs. Our family is especially grateful for his counsel and support of Attorney General Alan Wilson. Henry Clyde Harrison, Jr. (February 21, 1932-December 12, 2021) Henry Clyde Harrison Jr., 89, passed away on Sunday December 12, 2021 at his home in Greenville South Carolina. Henry was blessed with a large and loving family. He is survived by his love and life partner Tracy Lamb, his children; son Randy Harrison (Beth), his daughters Carole Ann Owens (Kent), Pauline Joy Green (Tim), Austin Harrison, his grandchildren Heidi Boyce, Henry T. Harrison, Will Owens, Anna Ornelas, Carly Owens, Chase Green, Aiden Green, Honor Neely, Willa Green and Wynnie Green his great grandchildren Harrison, Caroline, Bailey, Ava, Lily, Lauren, and Alivia. He is also survived by his second wife Glenda Harrison and her children Kim Alexander (Donnie), Kellie O'Donald (Roger), and Al Harrison (Kim) and grandchildren Cody O'Donald, Carson Lollis, Kolby Mccuen, and Brady Harrison, and great grandchildren Hadlee and Fallon all who he loved dearly. He was the last surviving child of the late Clyde and Pauline (Womble) Harrison. Henry was predeceased by his 10 siblings, Dot Floyd, Frances Ray, Elizabeth Baker, Lee Ellis, Mildred Lollis, Margaret Shenk, and Bill, John, Heyward, and Charlie Harrison as well as his first wife Carole Harrison. Henry was born on February 21st, 1932 in the Union Bleachery community in Greenville, South Carolina before moving to Sans Souci where he grew up. From a young age, Henry exhibited 2 qualities that would come to be known as characteristics to all those who knew him; hard work and the ability to make friends. When he was 6 years old, he had his first paper route, times were tough and he used the money he earned to help his family. He was known as the small boy; the one being followed by all the neighborhood dogs. He carried scraps and treats to feed them following the motto ``better for them to be happy to see you coming!''. Henry grew up in Greenville and graduated from Parker High School before joining the Highway Patrol and taking his first post in Cherokee County. On the patrol, he quickly distinguished himself as an officer who was truly there to serve. He believed that every single person he came across, on the job or in life, deserved to be treated with dignity and respect. He made sure everyone knew he worked for the people and it was his job to keep the roads safe for them and most importantly, their children. Through the course of his career on the patrol, Henry was able to move back to Greenville in 1962. While he never ran for office, Henry had a servant's heart and a love for politics. He was extremely active not only in the local Upstate community but in the entire state of South Carolina. He had no interest in partisanship, in divisive times he was known for working with everyone with the goal of bringing people together for the good of all. In 1975 he decided to retire from the Highway Patrol as a Sergeant and start his own company. Henry started American Security from his living room and quickly expanded it into a corporation that at various times served clients in seven states and employed over 5,500 people, known today as American Services. Henry believed in hard work. He classically stated, ``The good Lord gives everyone 168 hours a week, how we use them is up to us.'' Henry proudly served as the Chairman of the Board and CEO of American Services until the day he went to be with his lord. Henry, Chief, Big Henry, The Chairman, Slick, Dad, Daddy, Papa, Papa Slick, loved people for the entirety of his life and will be remembered for his love by his many friends and family while they wait to join him in the Kingdom of God. Visitation will be held on Thursday December 16, 2021 at Mackey Mortuary at Century Drive from 4pm-7pm. A memorial service will be held at Sans Souci Church located at 3100 Old Buncombe Road, Greenville South Carolina, 29609 on Friday December 17 at 11:00 am. Entombment will follow the service at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 1901 Wade Hampton Blvd Greenville, SC 29609. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorials to be sent to Sans Souci Church, St. Jude's Children Hospital, Tri-County Vet Tech Program or Dr. William Schmidt and Dr. Susan Shi Legacy Fund and Institute for Child Success.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, incredibly, President Biden said Tuesday: ``We're making progress.'' And ``American people are paying their fair share for gas.'' However, the reality is Americans are paying 61 percent more for gas, and home heating oil costs will jump 54 percent. The disastrous Biden agenda has put America in an energy crisis. He killed the Keystone pipeline with 11,000 jobs lost. And executive orders have paused new oil and gas leasing, costing over 1 million jobs. Annual Biden inflation is the highest in 40 years, destroying jobs. The Democrat elite think they are better than everyone, and they believe Democrat voters and Democrat media are ignorant to accept $4.5 trillion ``costs zero dollars.'' In conclusion, God bless our troops who have successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism now is moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. Congratulations, Norma and John Jett and Roxanne Wilson on their new grandson born yesterday, Hunter Taylor Wilson, Jr., of West Columbia, South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the fake news concealing of Bidenflation only reinforces manipulation of facts. Real people see with their eyes Biden policies are disastrous, destroying jobs. Anti-energy stopping of pipelines and pausing leases for oil and gas have intentionally raised pump prices 61 percent. This leads to higher costs in food prices and transportation costs for all products, and home heating is up 54 percent. With inflation at a 40-year high after the most expensive Thanksgiving, now we face the most expensive Hanukkah and Christmas. The Democrat elite think they are smarter than everyone and think Democrat voters and Democrat media are ignorant to believe that this $4.5 trillion costs zero dollars. In conclusion, God bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. Mr. Speaker, I would like to welcome Hunter Taylor Wilson, Jr., born today at 2 a.m., son of Dr. Julianne Jett Wilson and my No. 4 son, Hunter Taylor Wilson, Sr., of West Columbia, South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, happiest congratulations to my daughter-in-law and son, Dr. Julianne and Hunter Wilson on the birth of their new baby boy. Hunter Taylor Wilson, Jr., who was born at 2:00 a.m., on Wednesday, December 8, 2021, weighing 7 pounds and 14 ounces, measuring 17 inches long at Palmetto Health Richland Memorial Prisma Hospital in Columbia, South Carolina. Additionally, congratulations to grateful Hunter's grandparents Norma Jett and John Jett of West Columbia, South Carolina, and my wife, Roxanne Wilson of Springdale, South Carolina. We are so grateful for this new addition to the Wilson family.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, 2021 will tragically be remembered for the murders at Kabul International Airport of American Heroes: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David Espinoza, 20, of Rio Bravo, Texas; Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole Gee, 23, of Sacramento, California; Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin Hoover, 31, of Salt Lake City, Utah; Army Staff Sgt. Ryan Knauss, 23, of Corryton, Tennessee; Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, of Indio, California; Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee McCollum, 20, Jackson, Wyoming; Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, California; Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem Nikoui, 20, of Norco, California; Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan Page, 23, of Omaha, Nebraska; Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, 25, Lawrence, Massachusetts; Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto Sanchez, 22, Logansport, Indiana; Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz, 20, of St. Charles, Missouri; and Navy Hospitalman Maxton Soviak, 22, of Berlin Heights, Ohio. As a military parent of four sons who have served overseas, I cannot imagine what their grief-stricken families are going through during this Christmas season. The decision of the President and the Vice-President in April to abandon the people of Afghanistan and appease the Taliban/Al-Qaeda terrorists led to the deaths of these American Heroes. Sadly, this most catastrophic course of action will clearly shift terrorist suicide bombers from the Afghanistan safe haven to American neighborhoods. The Global War on Terrorism continues with murderous attacks in New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom, Uganda, Israel, and at Afghan Mosques. The Democrat elite think they are smarter than everyone, and think Democrat voters and Democrat media are ignorant to believe that ``the United States ended 20 years of war.'' They will gruesomely discover that now the targets are here at home. In conclusion, God Bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the Global War on Terrorism continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to recognize the 2021 Army Congressional Fellow, Major Brett Tinder, for his service to the citizens of the Second District of South Carolina. His year-long stay with the office is concluding and Brett will be sorely missed. Not only has he been an indispensable contributor to legislative goals, including the FY 2022 National Defense Authorization Act, but a valued member of the team. After graduating with a political science degree from Rutgers University, his already impressive military career has included numerous commendation and leadership positions in Fort Benning and Fort Carson. Brett has also been deployed to Poland, Germany, Romania, and to Afghanistan, where he was successful in his part with Operation Resolute Support--Freedom's Sentinel. His next assignment is with the Pentagon, where Major Tinder will be a valued participant for peace through strength. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. We will remember Pearl Harbor.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on Monday I was grateful to attend the annual meeting of the Saint Andrews Society of Columbia, SC where William Brunson DePass, Ill, was elected President. The traditional toast to the President was provided by John McCabe, a fellow graduate of valued colleague, Tim Burchett's Bearden High School Class of 1982, of Knoxville, Tennessee. Toast to The President of the United States, Saint Andrew's Society of Columbia Annual Meeting, November 29, 2021, Forest Lake Club I have been bestowed the honor of offering a toast to his honor, The President of the United States of America, Joe Biden. In order to prepare for this prestigious task, I sought advice from my neighbor across the street, John Brandon. Brandon Advised me to be of the utmost comportment, elevate all comments to the highest level, and offer the toast with the greatest of respect. Good Advice Therefore, Gentlemen, I offer a hearty health to the Honorable Joseph Robinette Biden, Jr., The President of the United States of America!

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, the Biden-supported, Democrat-passed, irresponsible spending scheme is the most reckless tax and spending bill in history. Americans are suffering from Biden inflation, and build back bankrupt will make it worse. Young Americans will be saddled with unimaginable debt, destroying jobs. For older Americans, Biden inflation is devaluing retirement accounts, undermining Social Security, and compromising Medicare. House Democrats have misled Americans about the cost. The Congressional Budget Office says it will add $367 billion to the deficit. All this confirms that the Democrat elite think they are smarter than everyone and think Democrat voters are ignorant to believe that $4.5 trillion costs zero dollars. They pay with Biden inflation. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. Remember the Waukesha murders in Wisconsin.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, in recognition of the 158th anniversary of President Lincoln's famous Civil War speech in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. I believe it is appropriate that we take the time to remember these meaningful words. Gettysburg Address President Abraham Lincoln--November 19, 1863 ``Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth, on this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives, that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this. But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate--we cannot hallow--this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us--that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they here gave the last full measure of devotion--that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain-- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I am grateful to recognize Police Chief Marion Eugene Sealy, Jr., of the City of Forest Acres for his 48 years of public service to his community. Chief Sealy will be retiring at the beginning of next year and South Carolina will be losing a great public servant. Chief Sealy joined the Forest Acres Police Department in 1974 as a dispatcher. In 1975, he became a full-time patrol officer and shortly after was put in charge of the investigative division. Through his hard work and dedication, he became the Chief of Police of the Forest Acres Police Department in 1994. Throughout his career in public service, Chief Sealy led the department through many hardships including the tragic death of Officer Greg Alia. He has been so encouraging to his widow Kassy Alia Ray and their son Sal as Kassy has established Serve and Connect to improve neighborhoods challenged by poverty and crime. Through his leadership, he was able to successfully relocate the police department during the devastating 2015 thousand-year flood to ensure the community of Forest Acres had access to its police department. Working overnight with his colleagues to set up operations, he dedicated himself to the safety of his officers and staff. He has set the standard of excellence in his community and I wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors .

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, Thanksgiving 2021 will be the most expensive meal in the history of the holiday. You pay with Biden inflation, build back bankrupt. A typical meal will cost more than ever. The Aiken Standard newspaper cartoon today is correct. Some specific price increases include turkey up 27 percent, carrots up 47 percent, potatoes 13 percent, and cranberries up 5.2 percent, in addition to gas up 61 percent and home heating bills up 54 percent. These are brutal realities for families as we celebrate being an American with Thanksgiving. Democrat elite think they are smarter than anyone, and they think Democrat voters are ignorant to believe $5 trillion in spending costs zero dollars. You pay with Biden inflation. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years in the global war on terrorism as it continues moving from the Afghanistan haven to America. Congratulations to the mayor-elect of Columbia, Republican Daniel Rickenmann, who is the first Republican in 40 years for the capital city elected yesterday.