Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, we marked the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. This momentous day marks a turning point in history. I am thankful for the leadership of President Ronald Reagan with Pope John Paul II and Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher for this triumph. Veterans worked to put their vision of democracy into action with victory over communism by peace through strength. U.S. military veterans can cite that we have more countries today living in freedom and democracy than in the history of the world. Yesterday, we observed Veterans Day, an opportunity to recognize freedom is not free. From tearing down the Berlin Wall 30 years ago to the recent operation in Syria to remove the murderous leader of ISIS, the continued resolve our servicemembers have to protect American families is steadfast. We will honor these sacrifices and veterans and military families, and they shall always be appreciated. 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, the successful raid by the United States Special Forces resulting in the death of the murderous ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is a significant victory for freedom. Americans commend the military and intelligence communities for their diligent work in tracking a murderous terrorist who committed atrocities, leading to his cowardly suicide killing children in Syria. I am thankful for the decisive leadership by President Donald Trump. Our commitment to deny ISIS a safe haven where they can launch attacks against American families sends a message that the U.S. and our allies stand ready and determined to succeed in the fight against terrorism. National radio commentator Buck Sexton, on Monday, correctly praised our special operations success as ``a big deal.'' In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism, just as, next week, we will cherish the 30th anniversary of Ronald Reagan's liberation of Europe from communist socialism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Yesterday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced their outrageous decision to continue with the removal of the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam and move forward with Alternative 2-6D, which was partially simulated in February of this year with catastrophic results. Since the day the Corps announced their disastrous plans to remove the Lock and Dam, I have worked to fight for a positive decision. Senators Lindsey Graham, Tim Scott, Johnny Isakson, and David Perdue with Congressman Rick Allen representing the Central Savannah River Area have consistently argued that the clear legislative intent of Congress was to maintain the physical pool level at the date of enactment being 114.5 feet. Lowering the pool level would negatively destroy jobs, recreation, and economic development up and down the river undermining hundreds of millions of dollars of investment. The Corps has chosen to ignore the will of the American people and the intent of Congress and move forward in complete disregard of the law. I am grateful to work with North Augusta Mayor Bob Pettit, Representative Bill Hixon, Senator Tom Young, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, and many other local leaders on this issue from South Carolina and Georgia. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism. Just as next week we cherish the thirtieth anniversary of Ronald Reagan's liberation of Europe from Communist socialism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, the Reverend Dr. Derek William Henry Thomas is the senior pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Columbia, South Carolina, and the Chancellor's Professor of Systematic and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary. A native of Wales in the United Kingdom, Dr. Thomas completed his ministerial training at Reformed Theological Seminary and received his Ph.D. from the University of Wales, Lampeter. He served as a pastor for 17 years in Belfast, Northern Ireland, before returning to the United States to serve as the minister of teaching at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, Mississippi. He was called to his present position in 2013. He has written or edited 25 books becoming editorial director for the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals and the editor of its e- zine, Reformation 21. He and his wife, Rosemary, have been married for 43 years, have two adult children, and are naturalized citizens of the United States. The First Presbyterian Church was the first church organized in the capital of South Carolina and will celebrate its semisestercentennial next year. It is the largest congregation in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Synod with 3,000 members. The historic First Presbyterian Churchyard was established in 1798 with Federal legislators interred along with Ann Pamela Cunningham who founded the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association in 1853 saving President George Washington's home from collapse. Also interred are President Woodrow Wilson's parents, Reverend Joseph and Jessie Wilson.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, congratulations to Staff Sergeant Dakota Bowen, who serves with Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 39th Infantry Regiment, at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He is the Army's 2019 Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. The NCO of the Year is the Army's top soldier, with competition annually on a variety of tasks testing their knowledge, skills, and abilities. Staff Sergeant Bowen emerged as the top NCO of the competition to win soldier of the year as this year's top NCO. General Joseph Martin, the Army Vice Chief of Staff, calls NCOs the heart and soul of the Army. ``When the Army desperately needs leadership, we turn to you, and you have never failed us,'' he said in a keynote speech at the awards ceremony. As a 30-year Army veteran myself with three sons who have served in the Army, I know firsthand that this analysis is correct. South Carolina is grateful for Staff Sergeant Dakota Bowen and his commitment to American families, promoting the truth that freedom is not free. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th, or the anniversary today of the Beirut bombing, murdering 241 servicemembers, in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, this month, a bronze statue was dedicated at Johnson Hagood Stadium at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina, in memory of Lieutenant Joe Missar and Lieutenant Skip Murphy, who died for freedom in Vietnam. First Lieutenant Frank M. ``Skip'' Murphy was from Florham Park, New Jersey, graduating from The Citadel in 1965, achieving the dean's list, and going from football walk-on to team captain, being an honorable mention in the All-Southern Conference. On December 7, 1966, Lieutenant Murphy courageously rescued his fellow members of the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Rescue Platoon, cited by Sergeant Ken Eising. Sadly, a command-detonated mine exploded under his vehicle, killing him and two of his men. He was survived by his wife, Molly. I am grateful Lieutenant Murphy was a student teacher with Ms. Sara Bookhart DeLapp's civic class at the High School of Charleston. I learned firsthand of his inspiring young people to be the best they can be, to promote freedom and democracy. 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, since the day President Donald Trump was elected, bitter Democrats have been obsessively scheming for any sign of alleged wrongdoing and citing impeachment of the duly elected President. Every time a new accusation comes to light, it is contrived by unsubstantiated evidence and later disproved, wasting already over $35 million of taxpayers' hard earned money. It is disappointing that instead of addressing issues for American families, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi continues this divisive, unsubstantiated attack on President Trump. Instead of addressing issues truly affecting Americans, such as passing the United States-Mexico-Canada-Agreement (USMCA) or repealing the unjust ``Widow's Tax,'' House Democrats continues this attempt to mislead the American people with baseless attacks on President Trump. The House Speaker's refusal to hold a floor vote where all House members can vote to authorize this inquiry conceals a public process. Let me be clear, there is no reason for these accusations aside from bitter partisan politics. In conclusion, God Bless our Troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, America and South Carolina have lost a True Hero and Patriot in the passing of Col. Jack Van Loan. Roxanne and I offer our deepest sympathies to his wife Linda and his family. The fitting tribute is from The State of Columbia, South Carolina: Jack Van Loan, an Oregon native and fighter pilot who spent six years in the infamous Hanoi Hilton as a prisoner of war in Vietnam and then served for 20 years as executive director of the Five Points Association in Columbia, has died. He was 87. ``He was a mentor, a colleague, a co-chair and a friend to me,'' former Five Points Association executive director Merritt McNeely posted on Facebook. ``More than that, he was a true American hero and he loved and fought for Five Points like no one else. Rest In Peace my friend, Jack.'' Mayor Steve Benjamin said city flags will be flown at half- staff this week in Van Loan's honor. ``He was a gentleman, stern, loving and a leader,'' the mayor said. ``These men served our country in some of the most challenging situations, never lost their spirit and continued to serve. Jack led the charge in Five Points. When Jack calls you come. He was unique. He was special.'' Van Loan received his undergraduate degree from Oregon State in 1954. He spent 30 years in the Air Force. He was a POW for six years, held in the same prison as the late Sen. John McCain. Van Loan was shot down over North Vietnam on May 20, 1967. He injured his knee when he parachuted, and his captors made the injury worse through torture. The torture, which became more horrifying, continued for most of his six years of captivity. Van Loan published a book about his experience in captivity, ``Chained Eagles, The Story of Col. Jack Van Loan and the Vietnam POWs in North Vietnam.'' He wrote the book because he thought what the POWs experienced needed to be remembered. ``I kept being asked questions about it and realized I needed to write it up,'' he told The State. ``It was a very difficult thing for me to do, to write it out.'' Van Loan quickly learned his captors had no intention of adhering to the Geneva Convention, a treaty adopted to protect prisoners of war from the atrocities he suffered. The North Vietnamese torturers unsuccessfully tried to beat information from him. He wrote in his book, ``I wasn't going to tell them about those targets, but I was going to have to come up with something. I tried to knock myself out by beating my head on the floor but that didn't work out. All I was doing was bloodying up my forehead and getting blood in my eyes. ``I just was a total mess. . . . I had just never, ever experienced any pain like that. I just didn't think that it was possible.'' Van Loan was released on March 4, 1973, with the second large group of POWs to be freed after the Paris Peace Accords ended America's involvement in the war. He had been held for 70 months. Van Loan, a colonel, settled in Columbia after retiring from duty at Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter. He served for 20 years as executive director of the Five Points Association, and is credited with being the force behind the success of the urban village's annual St. Patrick's Day celebration. He is honored with a statue in Five Points that portrays him emerging from captivity. At the time the statue was dedicated, Van Loan was honored by the like of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-SC. ``Jack sacrificed for his country in a way few have ever done,'' Graham said at the time. ``As a POW he stayed true to the traditions of an American fighting man held in captivity. He's an inspiration, a role model, and a credit to South Carolina in every way.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, South Carolina is fortunate to have Mark Powell as a columnist for the Lexington County Chronicle to highlight unique facts of history. On October 10th, he recognized ``The man who saved mankind''. An elderly Russian man was quietly laid to rest outside Moscow last spring. No crowd mourned him. No news articles reported his passing. Yet, if you're age 36 or older, you are alive to read this because of him. And you've never even heard his name. This is what happened the night Stanislav Petrov saved the world. It all started in the late 1970s. The United States and the Soviet Union faced off in the Cold War. President Jimmy Carter's foreign policy vacillated between sometimes talking tough, sometimes going out of its way to accommodate the Soviets. Moscow smelled weakness. So the Soviets deployed their new SS-20 nuclear missiles. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) upped the ante by announcing it would deploy its powerful Pershing II missiles in Western Europe by 1983 in response. Suddenly, it felt like we were living in Armageddon's shadow. If you are of a certain age, you'll remember massive anti-nuclear war rallies in the northeast U.S. and Europe, some attracting hundreds of thousands of protestors. A TV movie about a post-nuclear attack called The Day After got huge ratings. Rock music songs that played on nuclear fears such as The Final Countdown, It's A Mistake, and 99 Red Balloons were big hits. People were on edge. Which brings us to September 1983. Early that month, the USSR shot down an unarmed Korean Air Lines jetliner over Soviet airspace, killing all 239 people onboard--including an American congressman from Georgia. East-West relations were indeed tense. At that precise moment Stanislav Petrov unknowingly entered the world stage. A 44 year-old Air Force lieutenant colonel and father of two, he served in the Soviet's prestigious Air Defense Forces. He was part of the elite team that monitored the Russians' satellites which, in turn, kept an eye out for nuclear missile launches by the U.S. via a spiffy new state-of-the-art computerized system. Petrov worked the overnight shift. Early on the morning of September 26, the unthinkable happened. ``The siren howled,'' he recalled in a 2013 interview. ``I just sat there for a few seconds, staring at the big, backlit, red screen with the word `launch' on it.'' But something wasn't right. The system showed five missiles heading for the Soviet Union. Petrov's training had indicated that if a nuclear strike came, dozens of warheads would rain down on Russia, not just five. What was going on? Time wasn't on Petrov's side. Every minute he spent trying to figure it out was a minute weapons might be speeding toward his sleeping homeland. And nobody in the entire Soviet Union was aware of it--except Stanislov Petrov. His standing order was to immediately notify the Kremlin's big brass in such an emergency. His gut instinct told him to wait. As he was making up his mind, the word ``launch'' flashed in his face. In the end, he didn't notify his superiors as protocol required. Had he done so, they likely would have ordered a massive retaliatory strike on the United States, very probably ending life as we know it. Instead, he waited. ``Twenty-three minutes later I realized that nothing had happened,'' he said. ``If there had been a real strike, then I would already know about it. It was such a relief.'' It was the closest the world had come to an actual nuclear conflict since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. It turned out Petrov's instinct was right. The computer system had malfunctioned. At first his superiors were pleased with his coolness amid the ultimate crisis. But the Soviets were world-class bureaucrats, and he was later reprimanded for not filling out the required paperwork while the crisis was underway. ``I had a phone in one hand and the intercom in the other, and I don't have a third hand {for filling out forms),'' he said. Petrov eventually left the military to work for the very research institute that designed the faulty monitoring system. He suffered a mental breakdown due to the emotional trauma he had experienced, recovered, and eventually retired to tend to his wife during her final battle with cancer. He was living alone when he died quietly at age 77 last May 19, such an obscure figure that news of his passing wasn't learned until just a few weeks ago. ``They were lucky it was me on shift that night,'' Stanislav Petrov once said. That's putting it mildly.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, two weeks ago, I participated as Ranking Member with Co-Chairman Congressman Alcee Hastings and Co-Chairman Senator Roger Wicker of the Joint Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (The Helsinki Commission) to attend the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Marrakech, Morocco, with fellow Congressmen Emanuel Cleaver and Andy Harris. We were warmly welcomed to North Africa by President Mohamed Ennaceur of Tunisia in Tunis. We saw firsthand the vibrant democracy conducting parliamentary and presidential elections. America is ably represented by Ambassador David Blome and Deputy Chief of Mission Gregory LoGerfo. A wreath was placed at the North Africa American Cemetery where over 6,500 Americans are memorialized for liberating North Africa from Nazi occupation, escorted by Superintendent Ryan Blum. In Jerusalem our dedicated U.S. Ambassador to Israel, David Friedman presented an update on the U.S.-Israeli alliance. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu enthusiastically reviewed the ever-evolving political situation. We were inspired with an audience with the Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III. Director Ze'ev Orenstein gave an impressive tour of the archeological discoveries of The City of David Ancient Jerusalem. Chief of Staff Alex Johnson provided well-researched briefing materials for the Assembly in Marrakech. Morocco is a valued Non-NATO Ally of America with a surging economy for the people led by King Mohammed VI. With parliamentarians from 57 nations it was refreshing that opportunities were available for full participation with members respectful of time constraints led by Assembly President Gigi Tsereteli of Georgia with Secretary General Roberto Montella of Italy. Co-Chairmen Hastings and Wicker hosted a special meeting with nine parliamentarians of different political parties from Ukraine who were appreciative of America's support of their independence. I was grateful to meet dynamic delegates from Andorra, Bulgaria, Kyrgyzstan, San Marino, Serbia, and Tajikistan. I was fortunate to meet with Speaker of the National Assembly of Burkina Fasa Alassane Bala Sakande who is President of the African Parliamentary Union and Speaker Moustapha Cisse Lo of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) of Senegal. In conclusion, God Bless our Troops, and we will never forget September 11th and the Global War on Terrorism, with the leadership of President Donald Trump.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, 2 weeks ago, I participated as the ranking member with Co-Chairman Congressman Alcee Hastings and Co-Chairman Senator Roger Wicker of the Joint Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe--the Helsinki Commission--to attend the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Marrakech, Morocco, with fellow Congressmen Emanuel Cleaver and Andy Harris. We were warmly received into North Africa by President Mohamed Ennaceur of Tunisia in Tunis. We saw firsthand the vibrant democracy conducting parliamentary and presidential elections. We placed a wreath at the North Africa American Cemetery and Memorial, where over 6,500 Americans are memorialized for liberating North Africa from Nazi occupation. In Jerusalem, we met with our dedicated U.S. Ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, who presented an update on the U.S.-Israeli Alliance. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu enthusiastically reviewed the ever- changing political situation. We were inspired with an audience with the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Theophilos III. Chief of Staff Alex Johnson provided well-researched briefing materials for the assembly in Marrakech. With parliamentarians from 57 nations, it was refreshing that opportunities were available for full participation, led by Assembly President Tsereteli of Georgia with Secretary General Roberto Montella of Italy. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th and the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on October 10, 2019, Taiwan will celebrate its 108th National Day--also known as Double Ten Day. I am grateful for the opportunity to offer my best wishes to the people of Taiwan in advance of this occasion. Taiwan is a friend, an ally, and an important economic and security partner of the United States. Trade ties between the U.S. and Taiwan have grown rapidly over the years, and Taiwan is now the United States' 11th largest trading partner and South Carolina's 10th largest trading partner worldwide. We appreciate the enormous investment of Nan Ya Plastics Corporation in Lake City as a subsidiary of Formosa Plastics Group, creating jobs. The U.S.-Taiwan relations are broader than just trade. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act. In the years since the Act's adoption, Taiwan has blossomed into a thriving full- fledged democracy. With its respect for the rule of law, human rights, open market economy and a robust civil society, Taiwan has served as a beacon of freedom and an indispensable strategic partner of the United States in the Indo-Pacific. My lifelong appreciation of the people of Chinese heritage was inspired by my father, 1st Lt. Hugh deV. Wilson, U.S. Army Air Corps, 14th Air Force, with the Flying Tigers. He developed an affection for the people of China as he served in 1944 in Chengdu, Xi'an, and Kunming to protect Chinese citizens from aggressors. I am pleased that the United States and Taiwan remain close allies, and I would like to again wish the people of Taiwan a Happy Double Ten Day.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as part of National Clean Energy Week, I am grateful for clean energy and its advances in South Carolina. The success of President Donald Trump has been the achievement of energy independence for America. South Carolina is home to seven nuclear power reactors that produce 95 percent of the State's emission-free electricity. In addition, nuclear energy facilities in South Carolina employ over 2,800 South Carolinians. Nuclear energy is a reliable source, providing over half of the State's electricity. Solar energy is also a reliable form of clean energy. Currently, there is enough solar installed in South Carolina to power over 90,000 homes. I have been impressed by visiting Cypress Creek Renewables, a solar farm in Gaston-Swansea, Lexington County, welcomed by Wannelle Lefkowitz; NARENCO solar farm in Orangeburg County, welcomed by Michael Cox; and Green Energy Biofuel in Aiken County, reprocessing cooking oil, welcomed by Joe Renwick; along with Ameresco, clearing woody debris at the Savannah River Site. 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. Mr. Speaker, each August, I participate in a bus tour of South Carolina's Second Congressional District with my wife, Roxanne, and dedicated staff from the Washington and district offices. This year, the tour took us to the Clemson University Sandhill Research and Education Center in Columbia. The Sandhill Research and Education Center plays a vital role in the growth of statewide agribusiness. We were welcomed by long-time friend, Director Kathy Coleman. During the visit, we heard updates from faculty members Cory Heaton, Adam Kantrovich, and Nathan Smith on their research in agribusiness programming, which promotes President Donald Trump's policies of farm exports. We learned from farm manager Cody Bishop of the incubator program, which provides small plots for startup farmers to begin growing their business. The visit was jointly hosted with the South Carolina Farm Bureau. We were welcomed by David Wilson, Gary Spires, and Charles Wingard. 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, on Sunday, I was grateful for the opportunity to participate in the ``Howdy, Modi'' welcome celebration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India in Houston attended by over 50,000 Indian Americans. With President Donald Trump attending, this event was historic for being the largest such welcome for a world leader in the history in the United States. It was an extraordinary day to appreciate India as the world's largest democracy, with America being the world's oldest democracy. The Prime Minister praised President Trump as a true friend in the White House, describing the President as ``warm, friendly, accessible, energetic, and full of wit.'' Mr. Trump praised Mr. Modi for doing a truly exceptional job for India. He also paid tribute to the Indian American community for its dynamic contributions with success in America. I appreciate being invited by President KV Kumar of the Indian American International Chamber of Commerce and being hosted by Ambassador Harsh Shringla and Consul General Swati Kulkarni. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism with the leadership of President Donald Trump.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, every August, I participate in a bus tour of South Carolina's Second District with my wife, Roxanne, and dedicated staff from the Washington and district offices, visiting schools, job-creating businesses, and chambers of commerce. An amazing stop this year was at Sorinex in Lexington. Sorinex is a family-owned business that makes unique exercise equipment for professional teams, national Olympic teams, colleges, high schools, and the military. It is a classic example of a garage-originated business that now produces equipment worldwide. The founder of Sorinex, Richard ``Pops'' Sorin, took us around the impressive facility. The beginning of the visit was a tour with a historic collection of over 100 years of weightlifting equipment. Not only does Sorinex create its custom equipment, but it also produces all of its own branded apparel. I am grateful Lexington is the home of their success. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our sympathy to the family of Emily Clyburn and our prayers for Congressman Jim Clyburn and daughters Mignon, Jennifer, and Angela.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the conferees of the National Defense Authorization Act, NDAA, were announced, and I am deeply grateful to serve another year on this committee for fiscal year 2020. I will continue to promote peace through strength and work to champion repeal of the widow's tax. Our surviving spouses have waited long enough. As of this week, my bill, the Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act, has 376 cosponsors from both sides of the aisle. In fact, it has the highest number of cosponsors of any bill in the current Congress. In a time of constant disagreement, I am thankful to come together and for the bipartisan support this bill has received. I am disappointed it did not receive a standalone vote, but I will fight to keep it in the NDAA. It is now time to ax the widow's tax. I am dedicated to supporting our servicemembers, veterans, and military families. I look forward to working with the entire NDAA conference committee and President Donald Trump to advance this bipartisan legislation. 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, in the August jobs report, job numbers were once again strong. Over 570,000 people joined the labor force, and the unemployment rate remained at its 50-year low of 3.7 percent. In addition, 130,000 jobs were added in the United States and wages were increased. I am grateful for this consistent change for the better and for President Donald Trump's policies in continuing to create jobs. By creating jobs, lowering unemployment, and increasing wages, President Trump is continuing his effective record of keeping his promises. With more jobs created, there has been also an impressive increase in wages. One number that specifically stood out in this past August's report was the number of women employed. Currently, the number of employed women is at the highest level since 2002. I am grateful that the Trump administration will continue to focus on American families and the creation of jobs. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. I am grateful to recognize today is Constitution Day.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on the 18th anniversary of the September 11th attacks, Patriot Day, we remember Islamic extremist terrorists hijacked passenger jets to murder nearly 3,000 innocent Americans in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania. It is sickening to think of the men and women and children who were slaughtered. Our remembrance promotes the legacy of the people who were mercilessly murdered. I am humbled and inspired by the strength and resilience, just as my colleague, Sheila Jackson Lee, of our country when we stand together to remember this mutual tragedy. Today, I remain inspired by Todd Beamer's heroic immediate response, ``Let's roll.'' This summer, I visited the sites of Islamic extremist attacks in Buenos Aires, Argentina, of 1994 and in Mumbai, India, of 2008. The brave people of America, Argentina, and India are prepared to stand together to resist further mass murder. On this day, we honor the lives of those affected by the attack. It is also a day to salute our military who served to protect our freedom and to deny Islamic extremists a safe haven in Afghanistan. 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. Mr. Speaker, with last week's threat of Hurricane Dorian to South Carolina, I am grateful to the State officials who worked to prepare the people of South Carolina. I appreciate Governor Henry McMaster, Adjutant General Van McCarty, Secretary of Transportation Christy Hall, Attorney General Alan Wilson, as well as Kim Stenson, the director of the Emergency Management Division. As the hurricane approached, I went by to thank all of the State and Federal personnel in the South Carolina Emergency Management Division at Pine Ridge. The work this division achieves is vital to the safety of thousands of South Carolinians, and I commend them on their vigilance and around-the-clock attention. I am grateful that Governor McMaster closely coordinated with President Trump and continuously kept the people of South Carolina up- to-date on the ever-changing hurricane. I would also like to thank President Donald Trump for helping South Carolina to prepare in this time of uncertainty. 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, every August, I participate in a bus tour of South Carolina's Second District with my wife, Roxanne, and dedicated staff from Washington and district offices. I especially appreciate scheduler Stephanie Pendarvis for successfully coordinating her first bus tour in the tradition of Emily Saleeby. Our trip consisted of over 20 stops across 5 counties in the district. It was humbling and inspiring to meet with constituents at small businesses, schools, chambers of commerce, and manufacturers. Many of the stops I visited were rapidly growing, including Charter NEX Films of Columbia, a world leader in high-performance specialty films, who plan to add 100 more jobs, along with Swiss Krono of Barnwell, who plan to add 105 jobs. In addition, the Orangeburg County/ City Industrial Park has begun construction to welcome new businesses and jobs. I appreciate the Irmo Chamber of Commerce hosting a town hall on the tour. I am grateful to be accessible and accountable to constituents. 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, the United States today stands in solidarity with the noble people of Tunisia as they mourn the passing of their first democratically elected president, Beji Caid Essebsi. The world will never forget President Essebsi's remarkable stewardship of Tunisia's democratic transition after the 2011 Arab Spring uprisings. He was the right man at the right time: a seasoned politician for more than 60 years, President Essebsi was the only Tunisian politician to hold political office in the new democracy as well as throughout dictatorships of Habib Borguiba and Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali. A statement issued by the Tunisian government upon President Essebsi's passing rightly called him one of Tunisia's ``greatest men and one of those who contributed the most to building it.'' Tunisia flowered into the model democracy borne out of the Arab Spring in part due the commitment of Tunisians like President Essebsi to realize the dream of Tunisian democracy. Despite being an ardent secularist who championed the rights of women, President Essebsi was also always ready to engage all elements of Tunisian society, including the Islamists, precisely because he believed that all Tunisians have a right to political participation. As the Tunisian people mourn this great loss, the people of the United States stand with them, ready to lend a helping hand to overcome this next challenging chapter. We send our heartfelt condolences to President Essebsi's family and the Tunisian people. I have no doubt that the people of Tunisia will honor the legacy of President Essebsi's life through their continued awe-inspiring dedication to democracy and the rule of law.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, this past weekend of the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Landing on the Moon, I was grateful to join with Chairman Albio Sires of the Foreign Affairs Subcommittee of the Western Hemisphere to participate in a bipartisan delegation to Argentina and Chile. Additional members were Ted Deutch, Tom Graves, Ted Yoho, and Norma Torres. The initial purpose of the CODEL was to attend the Remembrance Ceremony commemorating the 25th Anniversary of the terrorist bombing of the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) Jewish Community Center. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo provided a heartfelt tribute for the 85 victims viciously murdered by cowardly perpetrators traced to the terrorists of Hezbollah financed by the Iranian regime. AMIA President Ariel Eichbaum welcomed diplomats from across South America. We also visited the memorial park at the site of the Israeli Embassy which was bombed in 1992 murdering 29 victims who were largely Argentinian citizens who were tragically simply walking in the neighborhood. Due to the respect of Chairman Sires, the delegation was welcomed to the office of President Mauricio Macri. It was impressive to meet with such a public servant who so clearly loves and appreciates the people he serves of Argentina. U.S. Ambassador Eduard Prado and his wife Maria hosted our visit to the historic Ambassador's residence where we met the courageous Ambassador from Venezuela Elisa Trotta Gamus. Ambassador Gamus has been appointed by the legitimate government of Venezuela led by Interim- President Juan Guaido opposed to the dictatorship of the disgraced Nicolas Madura who has plundered the formerly wealthy nation of Venezuela stealing from its impoverished citizens. In Santiago, Chile, a very professional country team briefing was provided at the Embassy confirming Chile as a very dynamic democracy with extraordinary economic success as a model of free market benefits of reducing poverty. The professionalism of the military of Chile was presented as they are partnered with the Texas National Guard. Charge d'Affaires Baxter Hunt has an enthusiastic staff. The U.S. Chile lnterparliamentary Friendship Group of the Chamber of Deputies led by Chamber President Ivan Flores Garcia hosted a meeting with Chilean parliamentarians of different parties who all were clear in their appreciation and respect for America. U.S. educated, Fulbright Scholar, President Sebastian Pinera welcomed the delegation to the Presidential Palace. More traveled than the delegation, he has visited all 50 U.S. states. In his current term and his prior service as President, it is clear his free market success has built a modern, vibrant partner of the United States inspiring democracy in all of South America. The talented citizens of Argentina and Chile can be proud of their achievements with Argentina having a land mass equal to the U.S., east of Mississippi River and narrow Chile at 8,000 miles--three time the length of California.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, it has now been 6 legislative days since H.R. 553, the Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act, was denied a standalone vote. Democrat leadership subverted their own rules and prevented a vote on this bipartisan legislation, which now has 371 cosponsors, over 86 percent of the Members of the Congress. Under new rules in this Congress, H.R. 553 qualified for the Consensus Calendar, a provision for bills to receive a standalone vote. An article published in The Hill stated today: ``The new rule keeps top House leaders from squelching any bill that has at least 290 cosponsors, or two-thirds of the House membership.'' Sadly, the Democrats did just that. They targeted and removed H.R. 553 from the Consensus Calendar. Democrat leadership should bring this bill to the floor. The time is now to give these rightly deserved benefits to the surviving spouses of servicemembers and finally end the widow's tax. 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, today is legislative day 5 since House Democrats subverted the Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act from being a standalone bill. I am grateful that 86 percent of Congress, 371 Members, have cosponsored this legislation, who were recruited by determined widows in the veterans service organizations. As Minority Whip Steve Scalise noted on the floor last week: Here is a bill that can quickly get to the President's desk, and it gets included in other pieces of legislation that might come months away. But here is a bill where a Member worked in good faith under the rules that were created, and it was unfortunate that the rule to bring the NDAA bill to the floor turned off the Consensus Calendar specifically for that bill, that one bill, which happened to be the first bill that met that requirement. We should work together, bipartisan, to bring the Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act up for a standalone to eliminate the widow's tax. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.