Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on Sunday Webb Simpson stunned the golf world with birdies on five of his last seven holes at the 2020 RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing Tournament on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, edging Abraham Ancer by one stroke. Played over the Harbour Town Golf Links since 1969 the event is celebrating its 52nd year envisioned by the late Charles Fraser for Sea Pines. The inaugural champion was Arnold Palmer. It created a platform of celebration and a marketing tool to introduce Hilton Head Island (the second largest island after Long Island on the Atlantic) to the world, named the No. 1 Island in the United States by Travel and Leisure Magazine. With an economic impact of over $102 million now annually, the Heritage Classic Foundation with J. Simon Fraser as Chairman and Cary Corbitt as 2020 Tournament Chairman; has since 1987, distributed $44.6 million to persons in need throughout South Carolina and Georgia for charitable organizations, the arts, medical institutions, and for college scholarships. The Island Packet with Stephen Fastenau provided proactive coverage with a photo of PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan talking with Heritage Classic Foundation President Steve Wilmot, Hilton Head Assistant Town Manager Josh Gruber, Town Manager Steve Riley, and Mayor John McCann at the Harbour Town Golf Links. The RBC Heritage is broadcast in 23 languages to 226 countries outside the United States. More than 1 billion households across the world could see the Harbour Town's famous candy cane striped lighthouse. The Tournament is traditionally kicked off with a procession from the Lighthouse at the Marina led by bagpipers from The Citadel of Charleston. The first stroke is by the prior year's winner using an antique club from the Course of St. Andrews which had been provided by the First Secretary of Scotland (Prime Minister) Alex Salmond during a presentation ceremony at the U.S. Capitol steps coordinated by Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) who was gratefully wearing the Heritage Tartan plaid blazer. A highlight of the Tournament is a Saturday flyover of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner or Dreamlifter over the famed eighteenth fairway. The world- class jetliner is manufactured at the Boeing facilities in Charleston which was toured last month by Boeing President David Calhoun who provided three cargo shipments of personal protective equipment to Governor Henry McMaster and Medical University of South Caroline President David Cole to combat the virus pandemic. The Tournament is in recognition of the first golf course in the New World established in the Province of South Carolina by immigrants from Scotland.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yesterday marked the 70th anniversary of the Korean war. On June 25, 1950, at 4 a.m., the North Korean army mercilessly crossed the 38th parallel with 135,000 troops to begin the invasion of the South. This anniversary is an opportunity to especially remember the 326,863 Americans who served and the 36,574 who died to successfully stop communist imperialism. I am grateful that President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump provided a wreath at the extraordinary Korean War Veterans Memorial on The Mall yesterday in Washington. There is no greater contrast between the blessings of democratic capitalism, with South Korea being one of the world's wealthiest nations as North Korea's totalitarian socialist regime has mass poverty. Korea is well represented in Washington by Ambassador Lee Soo-hyuck, and Korean Americans are valued citizens. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, with the newest relevations in the current situation regarding General Michael Flynn, Americans need to be alerted by the following revised article from yesterday's Wall Street Journal: Judging FBI Conduct (By Kimberley A. Strassel) House Judiciary Committee Democrats were back at their ``politicized Justice Department'' theme this week, calling a disgruntled former lieutenant of special counsel Robert Mueller to accuse the department of giving special treatment to President Trump's allies. Too bad the testimony came on the very day a federal court confirmed that Mr. Mueller's team and the Federal Bureau of Investigation engaged in misconduct. A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit did so via an order requiring Judge Emmet Sullivan to dismiss charges against former national security adviser Mike Flynn. Most of the focus has been on the legal merits of the ruling. Judge Neomi Rao's compelling opinion rebuked Judge Sullivan for ignoring the department's call to drop the case and instead setting himself up as both prosecutor and jury. This was a win for the separation of powers, even as it was a step toward justice for Mr. Flynn. Largely overlooked was the decision's rebuke of the FBI and the Mueller team. The D.C. Circuit became the first federal court to acknowledge the misconduct that Attorney General William Barr is trying to bring to light. Most of the courts that oversaw Mr. Mueller's prosecutions were asked to do no more than rubber-stamp a plea deal or sign off on a jury verdict. But Mr. Flynn, backed by tenacious lawyer Sidney Powell, fought the charges--forcing the Justice Department to review its actions, acknowledge its bad acts, and move to dismiss its case. Democrats and the press cast this outcome as evidence of Mr. Barr's ``politicization.'' The circuit court begs to differ. The Justice Department's credibility was at stake here. Judge Sullivan bought into the same Democratic conspiracy theories, which is why he refused Justice's motion to dismiss and appointed retired judge John Gleeson to act as shadow prosecutor. He argued the Justice Department wasn't entitled to the usual ``presumption of regularity.'' And if the circuit judges thought there was anything to claims that Mr. Barr was playing political favorites, it could have allowed the process to continue. Instead they bluntly noted that there was no ``legitimate basis'' to question the department's behavior. They even slapped Mr. Gleeson for relying on ``news stories, tweets and other facts outside the record.'' By contrast, Judge Rao's opinion notes: ``The government's motion includes an extensive discussion of newly discovered evidence casting Flynn's guilt into doubt.'' It points out that this includes ``evidence of misconduct by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.'' It finishes by noting that each government branch must be encouraged to ``self correct when it errs.'' The court's conclusion is obvious. All it had to do was look at the voluminous evidence the Justice Department supplied. Its briefs proved the FBI had improperly pursued Mr. Flynn, keeping open an investigation that produced no evidence, ginning up a ``violation'' of the seldom-enforced Logan Act, sandbagging Mr. Flynn with an interview that had no ``legitimate investigative basis.'' It even provided new FBI notes this week suggesting that then-President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden were improperly engaged in the investigation. The department's filings showed that the Mueller team had consistently denied defense attorneys exculpatory information. And it explained the straightforward process by which it had reached its decision to withdraw: Mr. Barr in February appointed veteran U.S. Attorney Jeff Jensen to review the case, and in May Mr. Jensen concluded dismissal was ``the proper and just course.'' What matters, however, is that the public gets the truth from credible sources. It's been coming, from congressional inquiries, from the nonpartisan Justice Department inspector general, from internal Justice and FBI reviews. And now from a court.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, a constituent of the South Carolina's Second Congressional Distict and Univesity of South Carolina alumnus, John Carrington, has answered the call to help with the COVID-19 pandemic. John is the CEO of ZVerse, a digital manufacturing technology company based in Columbia, South Carolina, that is known for making 3D printing software. As the lack of personal protection equipment began to plague healthcare providers, ZVerse took initiative to transform operations to address the needs of these essential workers. First starting with 3D printing and then shifting to the process of injection molding, ZVerse was able to create a large number of medical shields at an affordable price. By early June, ZVerse produced and shipped 4 million reusable protective face shields for health care workers with an additional 3 million more to follow. These shields shipped nationwide to recipients who need them most, ranging from local municipalities to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. ZVerse has now become the largest manufacturer in the country of reusable protective face shields and is now working to address the needs for workers outside of healthcare in need for this protection, such as restaurants and grocery stores. ZVerse has now doubled the amount of its employees and expects to continue growing in the coming year. South Carolinians appreciate John for his leadership and active response to the pandemic and wish him continued success. A special thanks to Megan Sexton at the University of South Carolina for covering this story and sharing the positive impacts of UofSC alumni.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, congratulations to the members of the South Carolina State Guard on their 350th Anniversary. The South Carolina military has a long and storied history since it was first organized as a Militia at Charles Town on Albermarle Point on the Ashley River in 1670. This Militia was the earliest manifestation of the South Carolina State Guard. In the early days of the Province of Carolina, the Militia repulsed French and Spanish invasions, attacked St. Augustine in 1706 and won the Yemassee Indian War in 1715. The Militia invaded Spanish Florida once more in 1749 and repulsed frontier Indian attacks from 1716 to 1761, including the Cherokee Indian Wars. During the American Revolution, South Carolina Militia units were formed into three brigades under General Francis Marion (the Swamp Fox) in the Lowcountry, General Thomas Sumter (the Fighting Gamecock) in the Midlands, and General Andrew Pickens in the Piedmont. They fought scores of engagements against the British during the American Revolutionary War. There were more skirmishes in the Province of South Carolina than any other Province during the Revolution, as its citizens were dedicated to Independence. The Militia also volunteered to defend the state in the War of 1812 and again in 1846 in the Mexican War. During the period from 1917 to 1920 the South Carolina Militia was activated to replace the SC National Guard units serving in France. On March 21, 1941, Governor Burnet Maybank of Charleston signed a law establishing the ``South Carolina Defense Force''. Now called the South Carolina State Guard, the still all-volunteer organization consists of highly trained and ready professionals. When serious natural or man-made disasters strike our state, the mission of the State Guard is to quickly respond to protect people and property and to help communities recover. Acting in coordination with the National Guard, law enforcement, and other state, county, and municipal agencies during time of emergency, the State Guard is part of the South Carolina Military Department under the direction of the Adjutant General. Its Commander in Chief is the Governor. When the State Guard was needed to respond to hurricanes Joaquin, Harvey, Matthew, and Florence, its personnel were there to answer the call. In 2018 alone, the nearly 1,000 members of the State Guard volunteered more than 90,000 hours protecting the lives and property of south Carolinians alongside federal, state, and local first responders. State Guard members engage in activities such as Search and Rescue Operations, Medical assistance, legal transport, traffic and parking guidance, engineering expertise, chaplain and counseling services, direct distributions of supplies, and conducting military funeral honors to our veterans. The State Guard's Commanding General is Brigadier General Leon Lott and its Deputy Commander is Brigadier General Michael Langston. The State Guard headquarters is in the historic Olympia Armory in Columbia. The State Guard's motto is ``Trained and Ready''.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as America has been shocked at the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, I agree with Governor Andrew Cuomo of New York that 99.9 percent of police are dedicated public servants. Reaffirmation of appreciation of law enforcement has been provided by Senator Tim Scott with the Just and Unifying Solutions to Invigorate Communities Everywhere, JUSTICE, Act. This reform legislation will provide more resources and de-escalation training. Senator Scott has correctly identified that the police department is a part of our community. I am grateful to cosponsor the House companion legislation, led by Congressman Pete Stauber, a veteran police officer. Now is the time for Republicans and Democrats to work together to restore trust in our police and reduce divisions which destroy families. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. I am grateful to Chief Andrew Richburg and Chief Dennis Tyndall.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, the United States of America is grateful for the partnership with the leadership of the Swiss Confederation in partnership with our shared resolve to eradicate the Wuhan Virus. The Swiss Confederation worked tirelessly through the leadership of the Federal Council, notably Minister of Health, Alain Berset; Foreign Minister, Ignazio Cassis; Minister of Finance, Ueli Mauer and Minister of Economics, Guy Parmelin. Their efforts to end the pandemic, stabilize the economy, and lead through the principles of freedom and democracy enable the United States and Swiss business, scientific, and economic leaders to work together for vaccine, cures, ventilators, masks, and other critical lifesaving efforts. The Cantonal leadership was also a testament to the success of federalism that the United States and The Swiss Confederation historically share. The Swiss Confederation is recognized as an international leader in the fight against the pandemic and its Spietz lab has made valuable contributions to the international research that made this recognition possible. Americans are grateful to the people and the Confederation of Switzerland for their unique contribution in fighting this tragic pandemic. The partnership of Switzerland and the United States is enhanced with the dynamic leadership of Ambassador Ed McMullen, appointed by President Donald Trump.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, this week was extraordinary for the advancement of democracy in the Republic of Georgia with the first step of adoption of important electoral reforms by the Parliament, led by Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia. The constitutional amendment approved by Georgian lawmakers this week will lead to a mixed electoral system in Georgia, a compromise brokered between the country's political rivals pursuant to the March 8th agreement. The Parliament's approval of this crucial reform signals Georgia's serious commitment to democratic consolidation and Euro- Atlantic integration. The people of America appreciate the courageous Georgian lawmakers supporting the March 8th agreement. This includes this week's important electoral reforms but also efforts addressing political interference in the judicial system. In doing so, Georgia will safeguard the progress it has made and prove itself once again as an undeniably successful regional model of democratic transition. Georgia is well represented in Washington with Ambassador David Bakradze. South Carolina has a special warm relationship developed by Honorary Consul of Georgia, Admiral David Shimp, of Charleston.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as the world faces the Wuhan Virus Pandemic, a success has been the leadership of the Principality of Liechtenstein with America's shared resolve to eradicate the virus. The Liechtenstein Government, through the leadership of His Serene Highness Prince Alois, worked together to make Liechtenstein one of the great international success stories by keeping Covid-19 infection rates at unseen lows. These effective policies also enabled Liechtenstein to suffer the death of only one of its citizens. The United States recognizes His Serene Highness and his government for their success and embrace of our shared values of freedom and democracy in fighting this gruesome pandemic. Ed McMullen, appointed by President Donald Trump, has been tireless in promoting our longtime alliance with the Principality.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, two weeks ago as violent anarchy gripped our nation's capital, the South Carolina National Guard answered the call. The South Carolina National Guard successfully mobilized and deployed nearly 450 Soldiers to the District of Columbia in support of the D.C. National Guard in less than 24 hours. This speaks to the preparedness of our service members and their willingness to support the citizens of the United States. While on mission in the National Capital Region, Task Force Palmetto assisted the D.C. National Guard with crowd and traffic control, patrols to ensure citizen safety, and general security of the national monuments. The support provided by the South Carolina National Guard enabled U.S. citizens to exercise their Constitutional rights and freedoms to peacefully protest. With a history dating back 350 years, the men and women of the South Carolina National Guard continue to represent the state of South Carolina, the National Guard, and the U.S. Army with the utmost professionalism and honor. Their service in D.C. is yet another example of their commitment to State and Nation. Special appreciation for Captain Brian Leister and First Sergeant Aaron Bittner, who survived being struck by lightning as they were serving. Congratulations to 1-118 IN Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Snow for his honorable leadership on the ground as well as Colonel Jamie Fowler who liaised with the D.C. National Guard. Lastly, South Carolina is grateful for Governor Henry McMaster and Adjutant General R. Van McCarty for their rapid response and service protecting families.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as I travel throughout the Second Congressional District, I have been inspired by the outpouring of support and generosity for those in need defeating the Wuhan Virus. In Aiken County, many individuals and organizations have stepped forward to assist their fellow South Carolinians, including Apazza di Napoli owner Cliff Garzzillo, who donated over 400 pasta meals to local grocery stores and medical workers. Prime Steakhouse owner Randy Stamm, with the help of local Real Estate Agent Barb Gould Uskup, donated 150 meals to Aiken Regional Medical Centers (ARMC) hospital workers. Palmetto Golf Club, led by Pro Emeritus Brooks Blackburn in Aiken, donated 350 lunches from talented Newberry Hall owners Patrick and Natalie Carlisle to Aiken Regional Medical Center thanks to Club member donations. Aiken Senior Life Center, under the leadership of Executive Director Aimee Hanna, has partnered with local restaurants to feed seniors over 60 with their weekly Drive N' Dine event, serving 250 meals so far. This is a weekly event created with the federal CARES Act funding. The Aiken County NAACP Adult Branch & Youth Council, under Chapter President Eugene White, delivered lunches from Honey Baked Ham owner Jignesh Desai to the workers of Pruitt Health in both Aiken and North Augusta in recognition of National Skilled Nursing Care Week. Aiken's Civil Air Patrol squadron members Nancy Reason, Ron Kight, and Chris Medlin delivered homemade and store-bought snacks to Aiken Regional Medical Center's hospital employees who work in environmental services. Golden Harvest Food Bank, under Executive Director Amy Breitmann and its community partners, including Recleim a recycling company in Graniteville, South Carolina, the Horse Creek Trust's Turner Simkins and the Graniteville Valcluse Warrenville Fire Department, under Chief Raymond Scott, Jr. loaded and distributed boxes containing meals. I am honored and inspired to represent the Aiken community.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the efforts of one of our allies to assist with our coronavirus response. Recently, the Republic of Turkey sent two separate planeloads of medical supplies to the United States. One arrived on Tuesday and a second on Thursday. The Turkish government sent 500,000 surgical masks, 4,000 overalls, 1,500 sets of goggles, civilian masks, face shields, hazmat suits, and a generous supply of disinfectants. This is the type of cooperation that we need to see on every level in order to effectively address this pandemic. I understand that U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, David Satterfield, was on hand to watch the second shipment depart Turkey. I am pleased to see our governments working closely together. I understand that Turkey made deliveries of medical supplies and equipment to more than 50 countries around the world, and I commend them for such generosity. It is in our common interests to continue to find constructive ways to work together.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I was grateful to be added as a plaintiff in the important lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of proxy voting initiated by Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, Whip Steve Scalise, and Conference Chair Liz Cheney. Congressman Morgan Griffith, a graduate of Washington and Lee University Law School, of Virginia presented the extraordinary legal arguments clearly documenting proxy voting as unconstitutional. Allowing Congress to vote remotely is simply irresponsible. Although we are currently in a crisis, this Wuhan Virus pandemic is no excuse to forget our Constitution which clearly says that we have to have a majority of Members present for a quorum to do business. If Congress was able to vote on the House Floor over these last few months without putting lives at risk, surely Members can conduct official business in a safe manner that follows guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control going forward. During the War of 1812, the Capitol Building itself was burned, but Congress members still met in Washington. The constitutionality of this new rule must be questioned. Our constitution says that we must have a majority to vote and yet this new rule would allow a few to vote for all, that is simply not right. Many Americans are getting back to work as we recover from this Wuhan Virus pandemic, Congress should be no different.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, my wife Roxanne and I will always cherish the inspiring opportunity to serve in Congress with Congressman Sam Johnson who died yesterday. He and his late wife Shirley were always encouraging and the embodiment of American Patriots. I include in the Record a worthy tribute published today in The Washington Times written by Will Weissert. [From the Associated Press, May 27, 2020] Sam Johnson, Ex-Texas GOP Congressman and Vietnam POW, Dies (By Will Weissert) Former Texas Rep. Sam Johnson, a military pilot who spent years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam before serving more than two decades in Congress, died Wednesday at age 89. The conservative Republican, who lived in the northern Dallas suburb of Plano, died at a Plano hospital of natural causes unrelated to the coronavirus outbreak, said his former spokesman, Ray Sullivan. Johnson flew nearly 100 combat missions in Korea and Vietnam. He was flying a bombing mission in 1966 when he was shot down and wounded. He was imprisoned in the infamous ``Hanoi Hilton'' for nearly seven years, mostly in solitary confinement. He retired from the Air Force as a colonel in 1979, after a 29-year career. The ardent conservative and anti-communist was elected to Congress in 1991 after six years in the Texas House of Representatives. He vowed to stay a maximum of 12 years, though he served more than double that. Johnson had been a POW with U.S. Sen. John McCain, and although they clashed in Congress, Johnson defended McCain in 2015, when then-presidential candidate Donald Trump suggested he wasn't a hero because he'd been captured. Johnson announced in January 2017 that he would retire at the end of his term. When Johnson stepped down in 2019, at age 88, he was the oldest member of the U.S. House. ``Scripture tells us `There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven,' '' Johnson wrote in a January 2017 letter to constituents, telling them he would retire at the end of his term. ``For me, the Lord has made clear that the season of my life in Congress is coming to an end.'' Another former Texas congressman, Ralph Hall, was the oldest-ever member of the U.S. House when he left office at age 91 in 2014. Hall, a Republican and World War II pilot, was 95 when he died in March 2019. Samuel Robert Johnson was born on Oct. 11, 1930, in San Antonio. He grew up in Dallas, married Shirley Lee Melton in 1950 and graduated the following year from his hometown's Southern Methodist University with a degree in business administration. Johnson enlisted in the military at age 20 and served during the Korean and Vietnam wars. He was 35 on April 16,1966, and flying a night mission carrying loads of napalm, when his aircraft came under heavy enemy fire over Vietnam. The gun of Johnson's F-4 Phantom II jammed and the plane was hit. Its right engine caught fire, forcing Johnson and co-pilot Larry Chesley to eject, and the future congressman broke his arm and back and dislocated his shoulder. Johnson recalled trudging through the jungle before being surrounded by North Vietnamese soldiers who took him to the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, better known as the ``Hanoi Hilton.'' He endured what he would later describe as 3-foot by 8-foot, rat-infested ``dark and filthy cell. ``Forty-two of those months were spent in solitary confinement with 10 other fine American patriots because the Vietcong labeled us `die hard' resistors,'' Johnson wrote in 2015. He recalled tapping code on the wall to communicate with other Americans being held, and that ``our captors would blare nasty recordings over the loud speaker of Americans protesting back home.'' While speaking on the House floor in 2003, Johnson said his faith only got stronger through captivity. He recalled how one day his captors put him against a wall and promised to execute him with machine guns. ``I started praying harder than I have ever prayed in my life. In a few seconds, the guns went click, click, click, click, click,'' Johnson told the chamber. ``It is only because of the grace of God I survived.'' He was released and flew out of Hanoi on Feb. 12, 1973. He earned a master's degree at George Washington University in Washington in 1976. He retired from the Air Force three years later and began a home-building business. He was elected to the Texas Legislature in 1984 and went to Congress following a special election in 1991, after Rep. Steve Bartlett resigned to become Dallas mayor. Representing Plano and other conservative northern suburbs of Dallas, Johnson was known for his work on veterans' affairs and for his efforts to bolster the financial standing of the Social Security program. He took office backing term limits, yet he stayed in Congress more than double his promised maximum of 12 years. When Bill Clinton ran for president in 1992, Johnson and other Republican military veterans in Congress alleged that Russian intelligence lured Clinton to Moscow during the Vietnam war when ``I was sitting in a POW camp in Vietnam eating fish eyes and pig fat.'' Questions about Clinton's patriotism dogged him during his first campaign, but the allegations made by Johnson and the others were largely soon forgotten. As a prisoner of war, Johnson shared a cell with McCain, who would later become a U.S. senator from Arizona. But the pair later clashed on political issues--including McCain's efforts to eventually help normalize U.S. relations with Vietnam. Still, Johnson criticized Trump for suggesting McCain was no hero. ``Comments like those of Donald Trump, or any other American, suggesting that veterans like Senator John McCain or any other of America's honorable POWs are less brave for having been captured are not only misguided, they are ungrateful and naive,'' Johnson wrote in 2015. In February 2018--marking the 45th anniversary of the operation that led to his release--Johnson donated a chipped green tin cup issued by his captors and tube of toothpaste he smuggled out of North Vietnam to the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. Johnson recalled then how he and other prisoners would communicate by tapping on the walls and how he'd hold his cup against them to amplify sounds and better hear their messages. In his autobiography, ``Captive Warriors: A Vietnam POW's Story,'' Johnson wrote of the cup: ``For me, it symbolized our war of resistance for seven long years. It had been a means of communication and, as such, a means of survival.'' Johnson's wife died on Dec. 3, 2015 at their home in Plano at age 85. He is survived by his adult daughters, Gini Johnson Mulligan and Beverly Johnson Briney, and 10 grandchildren. His son, James Robert ``Bob'' Johnson, died in 2013 at age 61.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, every day new evidence is revealed of the scandalous government spying on the Donald Trump Campaign and the rogue FBI and intelligence agencies conspiracy to sabotage the Donald Trump Presidency, I include in the Record today's revelations in the The Washington Times by Rowan Scarborough entitled `Tail wagging the dog': Not much was going on in the Michael Flynn probe until The Washington Post and a leaker reenergized the FBI, according to a newly disclosed transcript of closed-door testimony by former bureau Director James B. Comey. The FBI had filled out the paperwork to end the Flynn- Russia probe, but Mr. Comey halted the closing in early January 2017. Transcripts emerged of the incoming White House national security adviser talking by phone with Kremlin envoy Sergey Kislyak. The retired three-star Army general and Mr. Kislyak talked about not overreacting to economic sanctions that President Obama imposed on Dec. 31, 2016, in retaliation for Moscow's election interference. Mr. Comey went to work. He provided top-secret call intercept material to Director of National Intelligence James R. Clapper, who told Mr. Obama. At a Jan. 5 White House meeting, the FBI chief and Mr. Obama again discussed that Flynn had talked with Russians during the transition. There is no law, per se, against such communications. And there things stood, Mr. Comey said in his most extensive narrative of what he did in the pivotal January time frame when the Obama team was leaving the White House to Donald Trump.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, just mere days after being sworn into office for a fifth term as Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu stood in an Israeli court to stand trial in what amounts to nothing more than a political witch hunt. Formally charged with bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, Prime Minister has denied all wrongdoing from the very outset and has called for an open, televised trial so that the entire world can stand witness to the circus the Israeli left has put together with the sole intention of humiliating Israel's longest serving premier in the hopes that he will step down. One of the charges in the criminal case against Prime Minister Netanyahu, known as ``case 4000,'' alleges unsubstantiated charges. The distinguished lawyer and Harvard professor Alan Dershowitz perhaps described it best when he said, ``Netanyahu's trial poses great danger to democracy and the rule of law. This is the first time in the history of any modern country that a man is being prosecuted for trying to gain positive media coverage.'' As we watch this farce play out, we should also remember that a criminal trial of a sitting head of state is a situation that could only take place in the Middle East's sole democracy. At the same time, the partisan nature of the charges and the trial cheapen the value of Israel's democratic and legalistic spirt. Knesset Speaker Yariv Levin commented that ``the day of the opening of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trial will be remembered as one of the low points of the Israeli legal system.'' Levin went on to say, ``The charges against the prime minister are unprecedented in Western democracies. Their realm, if at all, should have been the ethical and noncriminal sphere, and it's no wonder why the world's top jurists have been harshly criticizing it.'' Indeed, the sham trial against Netanyahu comes at especially ironic times as the Prime Minister won the highest number of votes of any party since the establishment of the Israel state. This mandate from the Israeli electorate was a personal expression of confidence in the Prime Minister as well as a clear sign that the Israeli public has lost all trust in a judicial system rigged along party lines to force the hand of a popular leader and push him out of the political system. Knesset Speaker Levin concluded his comments on the matter by saying, ``I, like millions of Israeli citizens, stand with the prime minister today. With the truth. With justice.'' May the truth come to light and may justice prevail. The similarity with America is obvious that political enemies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are abusing the legal system just as the false efforts to impeach President Donald Trump were a witch hunt. Forces who lose on issues at the ballot box seek to subvert the votes of citizens.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, congratulations to President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan for beginning a second term with a positive message of confidence for the future. It is with the affirmation of democracy by President Donald Trump who has provided advanced weapons to Taiwan to maintain Peace Through Strength. Taiwan along with Hong Kong are models of how people of Chinese heritage can best achieve economic prosperity through democratic free market capitalism. The Wall Street Journal published on May 21st an article by Chun Han Wong entitled Taiwan President Holds Firm on China. ``Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen kicked off her second term by doubling down on her strategy for boosting the island democracy's ability to resist coercion from China, pledging to further revamp the economy, strengthen the military and deepen ties with friendly countries. In her inaugural address on Wednesday, Ms. Tsai reiterated Taiwan's rejection of China's efforts to assimilate the island, which Beijing claims as its territory. But she offered to work with Chinese leader Xi Jinping to stabilize relations in ways that respect Taiwan's democracy and sovereignty--conditions that China has previously rejected. ``Both sides have a duty to find a way to coexist over the long term and prevent the intensification of antagonism and differences,'' Ms. Tsai said. Ms. Tsai won the re-election by a landslide in January on a pitch to defend Taiwan's democracy by enlarging the island's international presence and reducing its economic dependence on mainland China, its biggest trading partner. Taiwan's standout success in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic has bolstered the profile of the island of nearly 24 million people, a boon for Ms. Tsai's agenda. Taiwanese authorities had reported 440 coronavirus infections and seven deaths as of Wednesday.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as Co-Chair of the Congressional Bulgaria Caucus, I commend the government of Prime Minister Boyko Borissov for its handling of the unprecedented Wuhan Virus pandemic. After a state of emergency declaration lasting ten weeks, the Bulgarian government announced on Tuesday that the country's famed archeological treasures, monasteries, mountain havens along with world-class Black Sea resorts, marinas, sports centers, restaurants, bars, and cafes will reopen on June 1st. As of this week, Bulgaria has reported 2,460 confirmed coronavirus cases, including 133 deaths, a relatively low number for Europe. Prime Minister Borissov and Health Minister Kiril Ananiev started relaxing the lockdown back in April, while still enforcing strict social distancing and other important measures which succeeded in containing the spread of the Invisible Enemy. The Bulgarian government deserves high praise for its handling of this unique public health crisis and for exhibiting an impressive level of leadership in the face of this challenge. The American people will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Bulgaria, and we look forward to seeing our friends in Sofia in better days with warm Bulgarian hospitality. Bulgaria is ably represented in Washington with Ambassador Tihomir Stoychev who is serving in the tradition of Ambassador Elena Poptodorova.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity has proven itself of serving the community as we all work to defeat the Wuhan virus. The Aiken Standard on May 25th in an article by Matthew Enfinger presented the following acts of kindness. A presentation photo highlighted fraternity members Ray Williams, Everett Chandler, Anthony White, and Will Jones. Fraternity buys lunch for Aiken police Officers. ``In an effort to show support and thanks to local police, Aiken Omega Psi Phi chapter provided lunch to officers at the Aiken Department Public Safety on Thursday. Around noon, members of the local chapter carried boxes of food and drinks provided by Chick-Fil-A in Aiken. [Owned by Tom Johnson] Ray Williams with the Sigma Pi chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., said it's a way to give back to area officers who work daily to keep Aiken safe. In addition to serving Public Safety, another group from the fraternity served lunch to We Care Nursing Home in New Ellenton. ``We wanted to show some support for our Aiken Public Safety by providing them lunch because they're putting themselves out on the line every day to protect and serve us regardless of the COVID-19 pandemic, ``They're still out there doing our best to keep us safe.'' Chief Charles Barranco with ADPS said the support from the community through lunches and simple thank you's has meant a lot to the law enforcement division. ``We're part of the community and when the community partners with us it's pretty cool to see the engagement especially when there's a fire call or police call going on,'' Barranco said. ``Many groups, such as the Omegas, have been part of COVID-19 response and we're very thankful.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, despite fake news reports during the Wuhan Virus pandemic from the New York Times and the Washington Post parroted by other biased media, President Jerry Falwell, Jr., of Liberty University has been praised May 19th by William McGurn in The Wall Street Journal: How it must hurt to have to admit: Jerry Falwell Jr. was right. No doubt this explains why we're not reading stories about how the president of Liberty University kept his Lynchburg, Va., campus open while keeping his community safe from Covid- 19. The doomsday predicted when Mr. Falwell announced Liberty students would return after spring break never came to pass. As the Times reported nearly a dozen Liberty students had come down ``with symptoms that suggested Covid-19,'' a fact endlessly repeated in other news outlets. A snarky Financial Times op-ed citing ``Falwell's hubris'' dropped the qualifiers and asserted ``twelve students promptly came down with coronavirus,'' which was corrected about a week later. In a part of his early statements on Liberty's reopening that received almost no attention, Mr. Falwell said in its handling of coronavirus Liberty would prove a ``model'' for others. Would it kill the critics so quickly to paint Mr. Falwell as the Grim Reaper to acknowledge, if only in the name of science, Liberty's experience might have something to teach them.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, the always thoughtful Daisy Wilson Harman on May 21st in the Lexington County Chronicle highlighted the Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce being innovative as it promotes its community and citizens during the Wuhan virus pandemic. There has been so many changes in our lifestyle since the pandemic hit in mid-March. Last Tuesday our Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce held its first monthly without members or breakfast, but by virtual means. Sponsored by Burr Foreman McNair, their message was ``how pandemic has affected minds of your potential customers, their thoughts on travel, eating out, and overall concerns and more.'' The basic overall thought is we have experienced change in every part of our life, and we are living in unprecedented times. Even though concerned about the unknown, it is encouraging that consumers seem to be embracing the new normal. They are confident about getting back to work and life with safe practices. Chernoff Newman gave all important insights and data on this new lifestyle in which we are living. It appears much travel will be within our state or country rather than abroad. This places change in our tourism industry. It was very informative program.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, in the midst of the Wuhan Virus pandemic it is so inspiring to learn of citizens volunteering to assist persons in need. A classic example is Aimee Crosby of Pelion, South Carolina, who was highlighted in the article, ``How sweet it is'' by Kay Collins on April 23rd in The Lexington Chronicle: A special recognition to Sweet Magnolias Deli Grille for partnering with the Pelion Senior Center to aid their Meals On Wheels. Owner Aimee Crosby advised WLTX that they have been able to keep all of their employees on the payroll. Because the community has been supportive, they wanted to pay it forward. Sweet Magnolias joined Meals On Wheels to provide homebound seniors additional meals to have enough food to last all week. The meals include one meat and three sides, a roll and desert. Each plate has enough food for 2 meals. The community has donated $600 and aims to raise $5,000 for 20 weeks of meals. The restaurant has started a GoFundMe page to help raise money. To donate please visit Sweet Magnolia's Facebook page or GoFundMe.com ``Bridging the Gap--Pelion.'' Call Aimee Crosby during normal business hours for details. Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission, Council of Aging thanks Sweet Magnolias who generously donated their time and resources to make sure 25 homebound seniors are not forgotten. Their Eastern dinners were delivered by Laura Dowey, Pelion's Senior Center Director, and her daughter.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I am grateful to SC Health and their President, Alex Szkaradek, and their general counsel, John Pincelli, for their generous donation of 10,000 protective masks to defeat the Wuhan virus. I had the opportunity to distribute them at the West Columbia City Hall, welcomed by Mayor Tem Miles and Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin. We were also joined by Lexington Sheriff Jay Koon, and representatives of Richland Sheriff Leon Lott, Aiken Sheriff Mike Hunt, and Orangeburg Sheriff Leroy Ravenell. Masks were provided to chambers of commerce for small businesses represented by Carl Blackstone of Columbia, Richard Skipper of West Columbia, Mike Taylor of Batesburg-Leesville, Rebecca Hines of Chapin, Miriam Atria of Lake Murray, Terra Carroll of North Augusta, and Phil Frye of Blythewood. The private sector, not just government, is making a difference. In conclusion, God Bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, an extraordinary insight has been provided by one of South Carolina's most respected business leaders, Peter Brown in The State of Columbia on May 21st. His message is valuable to all Americans as we work together to defeat Wuhan Virus. Fueling Fear About COVID-19 Will Hinder SC During Reopening Back in March our concerns about COVID-19 were driven by fears of worst-case scenarios: massive infection statistics, high mortality rates, overwhelmed hospital systems and extreme mortality rates. Prevention was the goal--and the efforts launched sought to flatten the curve of infections and deaths while reducing the overall strain on the health care system.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, this week, almost six- hundred members of the South Carolina National Guard are on Active Duty Orders, selflessly serving their fellow citizens to combat the effects of the Wuhan Virus and provide help to South Carolinians. There service is made possible by the steadfast resolve of South Carolina's Governor Henry McMaster and Adjutant General, Major General Van McCarty. As a grateful 31-year veterans myself of the National Guard with three Guard sons--Alan, Field Artillery, who served in Iraq, Julian, Signal, who served in Egypt, and Hunter, Engineer, who served in Afghanistan. I especially appreciate Guard service. During this challenging time, it is inspiring to witness so many National Guard Service men and women choose to help their communities. Here are a few of South Carolina's citizens who choose to serve in the National Guard, combating the Wuhan Virus. Captain Daniel Nix, of Chapin, is Military Police Officer in the South Carolina Army National Guard. Captain Nix has supported over one- hundred missions throughout South Carolina's Joint Task Force in support of Wuhan Virus operations. Master Sergeant Michael Keene, of Columbia, is a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Specialist, and has supported over one-hundred missions in South Carolina. Specialist William Stout, of Gaston, and Mikayla Battersby, of Lexington, are combat medics in the South Carolina Army National Guard. Between the two of them, they have screened almost one-thousand people in support of relief operations. Staff Sergeant Jennifer Heller, of Lexington, is a medical specialist in the South Carolina Air National Guard. Staff Sergeant Heller has screened over three-hundred people in support of ongoing operations. Captain Stephen Zagorski, of Irmo, and Second Lieutenant Cullen Parrott, of Chapin, provide their expertise to help fellow citizens. Captain Zagorski is a Field Artillery Officer in the South Carolina Army National Guard and has planned and supported over one-hundred missions throughout the State. Second Lieutenant Parrott is an Ordnance Officer in the South Carolina Army National Guard and has supported over fifty missions that delivered important supplies to South Carolinians across the State. Sergeant Elizabeth Hicks, of Lexington, is a supply sergeant in the South Carolina Army National Guard. Her efforts have positively impacted Soldiers and citizens. She organized and ensured the delivery of food and water to over five-hundred National Guards Service men and women, to include local citizens. Major Michael Morris, of Lexington, serves in an important role as a human resources officer. Through Major Morris' adept organizational skills and positive leadership traits, he supported over one-hundred relief missions throughout South Carolina to aid in the fight against the Wuhan Virus. First Lieutenant Brittany McKoy, of Gaston, and Staff Sergeant Christopher Rice, of Lexington, assisted numerous Service Members and fellow citizens in South Carolina. Between the two of these great American citizens, they've supported almost one-hundred service and relief missions, in response to the Wuhan Virus. Colonel Timothy Wood, of Columbia, is a Logistics Officer in the South Carolina Army National Guard. His efforts have positively impacted citizens throughout the state as he has tirelessly planned and coordinated over two-hundred missions throughout the State. I am grateful for the leadership of Governor McMaster, Major General Van McCarty, and these men and women who choose to serve our Nation. It is important to recognize their achievements. God Bless our Troops and let us never forget the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.