Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Congressman Rick Crawford for his leadership today. I am grateful to sponsor and support the South Carolina Peanut Parity Act of 2017, H.R. 2521. This bipartisan bill is cosponsored by all seven Members of the South Carolina delegation. It gives the hard- working peanut farmers of South Carolina a voice and say on the United States Department of Agriculture Peanut Standards Board. South Carolina is fortunate to have Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers from Bowman for his leadership. When the 2002 farm bill created the USDA Peanut Standards Board to advise on standards for the handling and quality of peanuts, South Carolina was not a substantial peanut grower. Since then, South Carolina peanut production has increased significantly, as it now produces 8 percent of the United States peanut crop, making the Palmetto State the fourth largest peanut-producing State. As I have said before, South Carolina appreciates peanuts so much that the State legislature has selected the boiled peanut as the State's official snack. Each year, I look forward to the Pelion Peanut Party festival which celebrates the importance of peanuts which is held in Pelion, South Carolina, led by Mayor Barbara Carey. The midlands of South Carolina is fortunate to have enterprising entrepreneurs promoting boiled peanuts with Four Oaks Farm of Lexington owned by the Mathias family and the appreciated Cromer's peanuts of Columbia, heralded as ``guaranteed worst in town.'' That is actually meant as a compliment. My South Carolina colleagues and I are grateful to acknowledge the significant increase in the peanut crops in the State and to advocate for the increase to be reflected on the Peanut Standards Board. We look forward to encouraging peanut farmers in South Carolina creating jobs and having their valuable input reflected on the national level. Mr. Speaker, I urge support today of H.R. 2521.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to recognize the statewide consortium of ten South Carolina higher education institutions for receiving a $20 million, five-year Research Infrastructure Improvement Track-1 grant from the National Science Foundation's Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research. This grant led to the creation of the Materials Assembly and Design in South Carolina initiative, or MADE in SC to create jobs. These higher-education institutions are as follows: The University of South Carolina, Clemson University, The Medical University of South Carolina, Furman University, The College of Charleston, USC Beaufort, Winthrop University, South Carolina State University, Claflin University, and Florence-Darlington Technical College. This grant encourages small business growth by providing seed funding through Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer awards to South Carolina businesses in materials- related projects. This consortium will use this grant to foster research and development in the state by focusing on advanced materials discovery and optimization efforts that are in high-demand. MADE in SC will boost the manufacturing and materials science workforce by adding new undergraduate degree programs and expanding current coursework, ultimately increasing the skilled-labor workforce. As a proponent of creating jobs and encouraging manufacturing in the district and across South Carolina, I look forward to seeing these higher education institutions utilizing this grant to stimulating small business growth, jobs, and valuable research across South Carolina. 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. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to recognize the statewide consortium of ten institutions of higher education in South Carolina for receiving a 5-year Research Infrastructure Improvement Track-1 grant from the National Science Foundation's Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research. This grant led to the creation of the Materials, Assembly, and Design Excellence in South Carolina initiative--or MADE in South Carolina--to create jobs. This grant encourages small businesses to grow by providing seed money through the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer awards to businesses and materials-related projects. This consortium will further foster research and development in the State by focusing on advanced materials discovery and optimization efforts that are in high demand. MADE in South Carolina will boost the manufacturing and materials science workforce by adding new undergraduate degree programs and expanding current coursework, which will provide and increase the skilled-labor workforce. As a proponent of creating jobs and encouraging manufacturing across South Carolina, I look forward to seeing these higher education institutions utilizing the grant to stimulate small business growth, jobs, and valuable research. 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, I thank Congressman Zeldin for his leadership. We sincerely appreciate his leadership for American families, particularly based on his service in Iraq. Mr. Speaker, on October 23, 1983, an otherwise peaceful Sunday morning in Beirut, Lebanon, there was, tragically, a disruption of a suicide truck bomb that crashed into the Marine Corps barracks, killing 241 courageous U.S. Marines. This was the deadliest attack, 21,000 pounds of TNT, since the U.S. Marines were in the Battle of Iwo Jima. Investigators determined that Hezbollah, an Iran-backed terrorist organization that has targeted America and our allies for decades, was responsible for the attack. The 34th anniversary of the Beirut attack serves as a solemn reminder that we have a responsibility to defeat Hezbollah and radical Islamic terrorists across the globe, many of whom are financed by Iran, all the way from Niger to the Philippines. It is important that we defeat the terrorists overseas to protect American families at home. President Donald Trump's decision to decertify the Iranian deal was correct. President Trump is protecting American families. The deal was reckless and dangerous from the start; it never served the interests of American families; and it threatened the safety and security of America and our allies in the region, from Israel to southeastern Europe, Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania. I am grateful to join Members of the House, especially my colleagues on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, in promoting the fight against global terrorism. This includes tougher sanctions like those being considered by the House that target Hezbollah and its financiers in Tehran, and it includes working together with President Trump's administration that is committed to peace through strength. I am grateful to thank Congressman Lee Zeldin from New York, an appreciated Iraq veteran, for his leadership and for being firm with the Iranian regime, which subjugates its extraordinary people. As the father of four sons who have served our country overseas, I want to say once again: 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, sadly, radical Islamic terrorists continue their assault on innocent victims across the world. This month, there were ISIS-inspired knife attacks in France and Canada, as well as the surprise attack in Niger, with mass murders of worshippers at mosques in Kabul. Gratefully, there are victories over the terrorists, such as the recent liberation of Raqqa, Syria, and now in the Philippines. Congratulations to the people of the Philippines, successfully led by President Rodrigo Duterte and their courageous military, on the recent liberation of Marawi from ISIS militants. Marawi is the capital city of over 200,000 citizens in the province of Lanao del Sur on the island of Mindanao, which has been under ISIS control since the end of May. Innocent families were persecuted in this murderous occupation. While liberating Marawi from ISIS control is a milestone in combatting global terrorism, this fight is far from finished. We must be successful to defeat the terrorists overseas to protect American families at home. 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, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to recognize Dr. Akil Ross, the principal of South Carolina's Chapin High School, as the 2018 National Principal of the Year. I appreciated being with Dr. Ross, alongside Chapin High School students, family, teachers, staff, board members, and community leaders last Friday as they surprised him with this fantastic news. Dr. Ross works diligently each day to create an environment that allows students to rise to their full potential. At Chapin High School, he is known for promoting the six Rs, including ready to learn, respectful to others, and responsible to ourselves. As a member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, I am both grateful and humbled to have such wonderful educators and students located in the Second Congressional District. It is inspiring to work with leaders in the Second Congressional District who are building a great foundation for younger generations of South Carolina so they can leave high school ready for fulfilling lives. 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, last week I traveled the district and heard from constituents who are grateful for the historic progress being made by the Trump administration creating jobs. President Donald Trump has led a strong pro-business team. The economy has added over 800,000 private sector jobs since January. Consumer confidence is at a 13-year high. The number of unemployment claims has plunged to the lowest level in over 40 years. I appreciate the President can share the significance of the DOW soaring above 23,000 points, up nearly 5,000 points, or 27 percent, since election day, as you can see in his tweet on Wednesday. The President's critics will never give him credit for American families. Columnist Clarence Page has described the ``anti-Trump derangement syndrome'' drives critics to irrational extremes. But these critics can't dispute the facts. The fresh faces, fresh voices, and fresh ideas that President Donald Trump has brought to Washington is making a difference for American families. 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, I was grateful to join Secretary Rick Perry and my colleagues, Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, Congressman Joe Barton, and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, yesterday to celebrate the Department of Energy's 40th birthday. The goals presented of progressing our science, protecting our Nation, and promoting our energy were meaningful to me, having served as Deputy General Counsel under Secretary Jim Edwards of the Reagan administration. I was also grateful to have worked at the Savannah River Site, where I saw firsthand so many dedicated personnel. In Washington, I served with General Counsel R. Tenney Johnson; was welcomed by Administrative Assistant Marsha McQueen; and was trained by Deputy General Counsel Eric Fygi, who was recognized as an original DOE staff member. I look forward to working with Secretary Perry to ensure continued progress on our nuclear cleanup missions, effective stewardship of the nuclear weapons stockpile, and continued research and development at our Nation's national labs. DOE now clearly promotes energy development to create jobs. 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, America was deeply saddened by Friday's tragic accident at Fort Jackson Army Base that claimed the lives of two brave soldiers and injured six others. Fort Jackson is a crown jewel of the Midlands of South Carolina. Established in 1917, Fort Jackson is the Army's largest training center, where my three sons and I have trained. Maj. Gen. Pete Johnson is commanding with compassion and professionalism. We are grateful for the sacrifices of every soldier whose service brings them to Fort Jackson, and we consider each of them part of the Midlands family. Today, I would like to honor the memory of those soldiers: Pvt. Ethan Shrader, from Prospect, TN, and Pvt. Timothy Ashcraft, from Cincinnati, OH. They will never be forgotten. The following soldiers are still recovering from injuries: Pvt. Emmett Foreman, from Daleville, AL. Pvt. Hannah New, from Cartersville, GA. Pvt. Benjamin Key, from Livingston, TN. Pvt. Alan Kryszak, from Clarksville, TN. Pvt. Cardre Jackson Jr., from Laurel, MD. Pvt. James Foster, from Macon, GA. As the father of four sons who have served with the military, I would ask that everyone pray for those families who are grieving and for the speedy recovery of those who were injured. I know the opportunities for recruits to have fulfilling and meaningful lives through military service protecting American families. 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. Mr. Speaker, domestic violence is a scourge. Its physical and psychological effects have lifelong consequences for survivors, their families, and their children. I appreciate South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and Attorney General Alan Wilson, both of whom who are working hard to stop domestic violence in our State, encouraged by Laura Hudson of the Crime Victims' Council. The Governor issued a statewide proclamation that designates October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Attorney General Wilson's 20th annual Silent Witness ceremony, which he held last week, honored the past year's victims of domestic violence at the statehouse. Specifically, the South Carolina Office of the Attorney General works to combat domestic violence through the STOP Violence Against Women program, dedicated to providing representation to victims of domestic violence and raising awareness of the issue; also, with the Pro Bono program, dedicated to providing pro bono legal representation in prosecution of domestic violence cases. Eliminating domestic violence should be something we fight for during the month of October and every day of the year. 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, our prayers go to all victims of the Las Vegas massacre. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful that I have been an advocate for pro-life values and protecting the rights of unborn babies. Today, the House will vote on the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. This will save the lives of babies who are too young to speak for themselves but who are old enough to feel physical pain. I appreciate the success of South Carolina Citizens for Life, who work to give a voice to those who do not have one. With the great leadership of Executive Director Holly Gatling of the Midlands, Leon Wizorek of Barnwell, and Sally Zaleski of Orangeburg, this organization has been working to save lives. As a cosponsor of the legislation with colleagues Trent Franks, Vicky Hartzler, Mia Love, and Karen Handel, I am grateful to stand for life, upholding the conservative values and protecting the lives of our unborn babies. Every life is precious and has great value. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Thank you, Dr. Tom Price and Betty Price, for your successful service to American families.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, our thoughts and prayers are with the families impacted by the massacre in Las Vegas. We are blessed with courageous law enforcement. I am extremely grateful to the South Carolina National Guard for sending nearly 150 engineer soldiers to assist Puerto Rico in relief efforts after Hurricane Maria. This was a devastating storm for the people of Puerto Rico, and they have been in our thoughts and prayers each and every day. These dedicated soldiers are part of a multi-State engineer task force with North Carolina, Louisiana, and New York Army National Guards. They will be assisting in clearing roads, debris, and working to reach areas that have been deemed unreachable due to the storm. They will also work on restoring infrastructure. As a veteran of the South Carolina Army National Guard and the father of three sons who have served in the Guard, I am grateful that our State is able to assist the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico in their time of need. On my visits to San Juan, I have been very impressed by its dynamic citizens. I am very appreciative of the leadership of South Carolina Adjutant General Robert Livingston, the experienced South Carolina Army National Guard members, as well as the leadership of Governor Henry McMaster. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forgot September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to recognize Mr. Frederick Lockehart (Locke) Mays, a dedicated family man and distinguished member of the community. Locke was born in Columbia, South Carolina, on September 20, 1927 to Elizabeth and Fred Mays. He joined the Marine Corps in 1945, following graduation from Dreher High School. He served 18 months, then joined the reserves as a Sergeant. He was called back up during the Korean Conflict, training at Quantico and in Puerto Rico, although not being sent to Korea. Except for a brief stint in banking, Locke worked in the trucking industry, retiring after selling G&P Trucking Company to Southeastern Freight Lines in the mid- 1980s. He now enjoys restoring old Fords to mint condition; with his favorite being a 1935 Phaeton. He has been active in First Presbyterian Church of Columbia for over fifty years, where he serves as an Elder Emeritus. A devoted husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather, Locke celebrated his 90th birthday last Wednesday, September 20th in Columbia, South Carolina, surrounded by his family.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this morning I was grateful to join my fellow South Carolinian colleagues at the Boeing Leaders for the Second Century program. This program is dedicated to discussing leadership capabilities and better understanding public policy. Boeing has brought thousands of jobs to South Carolina, and we are grateful that they call us home. Additionally, I am thankful for the inspiring leadership of Charleston Vice President and General Manager Joan Robinson-Berry; Chairman, President, and CEO Dennis Muilenburg; Vice Chairman Raymond Conner; Executive Vice President Leanne Caret, as well as all who have joined us this morning from worldwide operations. I appreciate Boeing suppliers creating jobs in the Second Congressional District. This includes: Zeus, located in Orangeburg and Aiken; Prysmian of Lexington; Thermal Engineering of Columbia; and AGY of Aiken. When I think Boeing, I think jobs, and I look forward to continuing to work to bring jobs to South Carolina. Best wishes to the Boeing Company for successfully creating more jobs in South Carolina. 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, last week I was grateful to participate in a Congressional Delegation to Japan, the Republic of Korea, Guam, and Hawaii. We visited troops on the front line who are defending American families and promoting peace through strength. In the shadow of North Korea's latest missile launch over Japan, it was re-assuring to meet with leadership of the highest competence and integrity. We were inspired by leadership from: Vice Admiral Phil Sawyer, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, Yokosuka, Japan General Vincent Brooks, Commander, U.S. Forces Korea, Seoul, Korea Lieutenant General Tom Bergeson, Commander, 7th Air Force, Osan, Korea Lieutenant General Tom Vandal, Commanding General, 8th Army, Camp Humphries, Korea Rear Admiral Shoshana Chatfield, Commander, Joint Region Marianas, Guam Lieutenant General Bryan Fenton, Deputy Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, Camp Smith, Hawaii Admiral Scott Swift, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii General Terrance O'Shaughnessy, Commander, Pacific Air Forces, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii General Robert Brown, Commander, U.S. Army Pacific, Camp Smith, Hawaii The delegation was professionally coordinated by Captain Scott Farr and Lieutenant Commander Victoria Marum. Many thanks to staff Craig Collier and Brian Garett for accompanying the delegation. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism. Our prayers with those in Mexico City, Puerto Rico, and all in the path of Hurricane Maria.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I was grateful to participate in a congressional delegation last week to Japan, the Republic of Korea, Guam, and Hawaii. We visited troops on the front line who are defending American families and promoting peace through strength. In the shadow of North Korea's latest missile launch over Japan, it was reassuring to meet with leadership of the highest competence and integrity. We were inspired by the leadership from Vice Admiral Phil Sawyer, Commander U.S. 7th Fleet; General Vincent Brooks, Commander, U.S. Forces Korea; Lieutenant General Tom Bergeson, Commander, 7th Air Force; Lieutenant General Tom Vandal, Commanding General, 8th Army; Rear Admiral Shoshana Chatfield, Commander, Joint Region Marianas; Lieutenant General Bryan Fenton, Deputy Commander, U.S. Pacific Command; Admiral Scott Swift, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet; General Terrence O'Shaughnessy, Commander, Pacific Air Forces; General Robert Brown, Commander, U.S. Army Pacific. The delegation was professionally coordinated by Captain Scott Farr and Lieutenant Commander Victoria Marum. Many thanks to staff Craig Collier and Brian Garrett for accompanying the delegation. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our prayers are with those in Mexico City, Puerto Rico, and all in the path of Hurricane Maria.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I was grateful this weekend to visit and thank volunteers at local shelters in the Midlands of South Carolina for helping families displaced from their homes due to Hurricane Irma. At the South Carolina Emergency Preparedness Center in Pine Ridge, Governor Henry McMaster ably received updates to make thoughtful decisions to protect citizens. Emergency Management Division Director Kim Stenson professionally hosted over a dozen State agencies with FEMA Coordinator Willie Nunn. Adjutant General Robert Livingston and the Army National Guard were vital in preparation efforts. While visiting the Dent Middle School Red Cross shelter, we were welcomed by Principal Tamala Murrill Ashford, Red Cross Executive Director Rebecca Jordan, Beth Shwedo, and volunteers dedicated to service. State officials and the South Carolina Army National Guard have been successful leaders for preparation. Attorney General Alan Wilson led efforts to reduce price gouging. I appreciate everyone for ensuring that citizens had the resources for safety. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our prayers for all those affected by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, an extraordinary highlight of August was visiting Guatemala to observe the success for the Food for the Hungry organization. With Ambassador Tony Hall, a former Ohio Member of Congress, who is appreciated as a world champion in reducing poverty, and the Food for the Hungry director, Lucas Koach, I visited nutrition programs in very remote villages of this beautiful country. The people have suffered deficiencies due to malnutrition, including stunted height and brain development. The communities we visited were so isolated that travel was accomplished by helicopter. The Food for the Hungry ambassadors worked tirelessly to provide healthcare providers with counseling and nutritional supplements. We were welcomed by Guatemala's Ambassador to the U.S., Manuel Espina, and Mario Bucaro, president of Guatemala Prospera. In Guatemala City, we met with the dynamic, young President Jimmy Morales and his talented Cabinet, who expressed their appreciation for Food for the Hungry giving Guatemalans the opportunity to have fulfilling and meaningful lives. We were grateful to attend a dinner with Guatemalan Caucus Chair Ken Buck and World Food Programme Director David Beasley, former Governor of South Carolina, who addressed the next morning's congressional prayer breakfast in Guatemala City. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our prayers for all affected by Hurricane Irma.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere gratitude and appreciation that I have the opportunity to recognize Leacy Burke, former communications director for South Carolina's Second Congressional District. I will always appreciate Leacy for her years of service on behalf of the people of South Carolina. A native of South Carolina, Leacy is an esteemed alumna of the University of South Carolina, where she graduated with both a bachelor of arts degree in political science and criminal justice, as well as a master's degree in mass communications, integrated communications. Beginning as a deputy press secretary for the office in 2015, it has been an honor to work with such a dedicated public servant making meaningful provisions for our office. It is with mixed feelings, but great happiness, that our office bids Leacy farewell. She is now doing amazing work in her new role as communications director for Senator Jim Inhofe, Republican, of Oklahoma. I know her parents, Greg and Denise Burke, and family members join me in recognizing her achievements. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our prayers are for all persons threatened by Hurricane Irma, from the Caribbean Islands to South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as a lifelong cold warrior promoting victory over communism, it was a dream come true to lead a bipartisan delegation to Eastern Europe in early August reaffirming America's commitment to our new NATO allies in the European Reassurance Initiative. We know that peace through strength will be successful. The vision of Barry Goldwater and Ronald Reagan has been achieved. Visiting with military and government leaders in Romania, Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania, Georgia, and Poland, we saw dynamic and prospering American allies achieving world-class defensive capabilities with their professional military fully equipped with the latest technologies. In both Warsaw and Tbilisi, President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence made it clear America will protect these new democracies. I was inspired as an election observer in Bulgaria in 1990, and have seen this country evolve from totalitarianism to the now dedicated democracy led by Prime Minister Boyko Borissov. I was grateful to be accompanied by my youngest son, Hunter, an Afghanistan veteran, as we witnessed freedom in these countries in stark contrast to the year Hunter was born in 1987, when all six countries were enemies to the United States and were suffering under communist dictatorships. 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 conduct a bus tour of South Carolina's Second Congressional District with my wife, Roxanne, and dedicated staff members from all offices. I would like to specifically recognize scheduler Emily Saleeby for this year's very meaningfully coordinated schedule. It was humbling and inspiring to meet with constituents and visit 30 locations from small businesses and schools to local chambers of commerce and large employers. I took the opportunity to thank employees for their service, and employers for creating jobs in all five counties I represent. Many of the businesses were multigeneration success stories, such as Form Tool Technology in Elgin founded by Mike and Roxann Robbins; The Marwin Company in West Columbia led by Andy Davis; Anovotek in Barnwell founded by Don Alexander; and Hansen International in Lexington led by Lisa Beebe. The pro-development policies of South Carolina were also highlighted by Kimberly-Clark corporation's largest manufacturing facility in North America located in Beech Island with 2,000 employees. I am additionally grateful for Principal Anna Miller of Chapin Middle School; Dr. Sandra Jordan, chancellor of USC-Aiken; Director Sandra Sigmon of North Family Community School; and Principal Jacqualine Kasprowski of Cardinal Newman High School for their emphasis on proactive education across the district. A final stop was to thank Gary David of WVOC Radio in promoting relief efforts for the recovery of Hurricane Harvey in Houston. Additional stops included BAE Systems hosted by Michael Eaton, Aiken Rotary Club hosted by John McMichael, Jr., Hubbell Power Systems hosted by Pete Swales, Ahh Sunshine hosted by Jim Hanna, CVS Caremark Distribution Center hosted by Elizabeth Brooks, Frank Donaghy, and Tom Moriarty, Alley Downtown Taproom hosted by Norman Dunagan, Irmo Chamber of Commerce hosted by Kerry Powers, K2Tech hosted by Zach Minton, Cayce-West Columbia Rotary hosted by Marnie Robinson, Menchie's Frozen Yogurt hosted by Jorge Gonzales, Mathnasium hosted by Annette Sudduth, Coca-Cola hosted by Alison Patient, FN America hosted by Greg Butler, South Carolina Vocations & Individual Advancement (SCVIA), a division of Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands, SC, Inc. hosted by Mike Adams, Duck Donuts hosted by Katie McCanna, Brittons of Columbia hosted by Perry Lancaster, Shealy's Bar-B-Que hosted by Tommy Shealy, and Ansaldo STS hosted by Joseph Eiseman. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.