Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, recently, President Donald Trump selected former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue to be Secretary of Agriculture. President Trump correctly announced that, ``From growing up on a farm to being governor of a big agriculture state, he has spent his whole life understanding and solving the challenges our farmers face, and he is going to deliver big results for all Americans who earn their living off the land.'' I am confident that Governor Perdue will be a positive advocate for the agricultural community. The dynamic agriculture industry of the district I represent is appreciated for its vital significance and extraordinary employment opportunities, and creating jobs. Congratulations to Governor Perdue, his wife Mary Ruff, and their entire family on this tremendous honor. I look forward to working with his successor in this new position in the tradition of Governor Perdue's success as Governor of South Carolina's sister state. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and may we never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Friday marked a positive new era for American families, as Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the 45th President of the United States, with Mike Pence serving as the 48th Vice President. President Donald Trump and Vice President Pence will work alongside Speaker Paul Ryan to create jobs, replace ObamaCare with a patient- centered alternative, and promote a national defense so that American families can be protected, policies that were clearly outlined in his inaugural address. In an op-ed published in Forbes, President Trump's speech was described as ``revolutionary.'' The article went on to detail how ``he has defined a new role for the government, for the public, for patriotism, for America first.'' President Trump confirmed: ``This is your day, your celebration . . . What matters is that your country is ruled by you, the people.'' In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. The hateful protesters who assaulted my inaugural guests from New Jersey with water balloons will fail again, as President Trump with Speaker Ryan prevail creating jobs.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Mac Thornberry for yielding. I appreciate the gentleman's positive leadership as chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. I am grateful to endorse this selection of General Jim Mattis for Secretary of Defense and, based on his extraordinary background, believe a waiver is appropriate. General Mattis' recent experience in the Middle East makes him uniquely qualified to address the threats to servicemembers overseas and American families at home. I am confident that, through his position, General Mattis will continue the great traditions of civilian control of the military, delivering peace through strength. My personal perspective of appreciation of General Mattis is as the grateful son of a World War II Flying Tiger who served in India and China, as the son-in-law of a Marine who received the Navy Cross for Okinawa service, as a 31-year veteran myself of the Army Reserve and Army National Guard, with four sons who have served in the military, as Army Field Artillery in Iraq, as a Navy doctor in Iraq and Italy, as a signal officer in Egypt, as an engineer in Afghanistan, and with an Air Force nephew serving in Iraq. In his testimony before the Senate yesterday reaffirming the European Reassurance Initiative from the Baltics to Bulgaria, General Mattis spoke bluntly about the readiness crisis facing our military, and we are eager to work with him on the critical task of rebuilding our national defense to promote peace through strength. Simultaneously, bipartisan endorsements, to me personally, from his fellow Marines confirm he is the right person at the right time. General Mattis' swift confirmation is crucial to continuity for our ongoing military operations and protecting American families. I urge my colleagues to support the waiver for General Mattis.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on January 11th, President-elect Donald Trump nominated Dr. David Shulkin to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Dr. Shulkin has served as the undersecretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs for Health since June 2015. Having seen the inner- workings of the Department of Veterans Affairs, he is an excellent candidate to reform the department and serve the needs of our veterans. President-elect Donald Trump said that he has ``no doubt Dr. Shulkin will be able to lead the turnaround our Department of Veterans Affairs needs. His sole mandate will be to serve our veterans and restore the level of care we owe to our brave men and women in the military. Dr. Shulkin has the experience and the vision to ensure we will meet the healthcare needs of every veteran.'' I am confident in the appointment of Dr. David Shulkin and I look forward to working with him in this new role. He will continue the promotion of positive reforms by former House Veterans Affairs Chairman Jeff Miller of Florida. In conclusion, God Bless our Troops and may the President by his actions never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last week The Post and Courier of Charleston announced that South Carolina is the fifth most popular State for new residents. In an annual study conducted by United Van Lines, South Carolina achieved being in a top place for people looking to relocate, whether for a job, retirement, or temperate climate. The Post and Courier detailed that the moving company this week said 60 percent of the trucks in South Carolina dropped off household goods for newcomers, placing it among the top destinations for those seeking a new home. The article also reveals that recent data from the Census Bureau confirms the Palmetto State is gaining significantly. I am grateful to Governor Nikki Haley, incoming Governor Henry McMaster, Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt, and everyone who works each day to promote South Carolina as a great place to live, work, and raise a family. We have a probusiness mindset. We are military friendly. We have communities that promote job creation. We have a State that is ready to welcome transplants. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this weekend, I was grateful to participate in the Stand Up for Life March and Rally in Columbia, hosted by the South Carolina Citizens for Life during a rare snowstorm. I appreciated hearing remarks from Evangelist Alveda King, niece of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a dedicated pro-life activist. I was also grateful to attend the grand opening of Daybreak, a crisis pregnancy center, hosted by Director Brennan Aschleman. I thank Lisa Van Riper, president of South Carolina Citizens for Life, with Holly Gatling and Brenda Cerkez for organizing such a meaningful event. I was grateful to participate, as well, with Bishop Robert Guglielmone of Charleston and the Knights of Columbus led by Thomas Monahan. Pro-life voters have made a difference with all statewide officials, both U.S. Senators and six U.S. Members of Congress supporting pro-life initiatives, along with super majorities in the State house and senate. I was grateful to begin this new Congress by being an original cosponsor of H. Res. 354 to provide for a moratorium on Federal funding to Planned Parenthood, which has disgracefully sold baby body parts. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, early this morning, the Clemson University Tigers achieved the College Football National Championship in what was one of the most stunning and unforgettable endings to a football game. Trailing behind the formidable University of Alabama for the majority of the game, the Clemson Tigers refused to be defeated, culminating in a come-from-behind win at literally the last second. Throughout the entire season, the Clemson football team has shown guts, grit, and determination to their team, their school, and the State of South Carolina. This was a well-deserved win for a remarkable school and a remarkable program. I join my two sons, Julian and Hunter, who graduated from Clemson, and Clemson fans from across the Nation in celebrating this historic victory. Congratulations to Clemson superstars Deshaun Watson and Ben Boulware, who were named most valuable players for the game. Congratulations as well to President Jim Clements and his wife, Beth. They are continuing in the world class tradition of Jim and Marcia Barker. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Congratulations, Dabo Swinney and the entire Clemson football family. Go Tigers.

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, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last month I was grateful that President Obama signed the National Defense Authorization Act into law--legislation that will clearly prevent the closure of the prison at Guantanamo Bay. Sadly, this has not stopped the President from releasing murderous terrorists, which, by weakness, encourages more attacks against American families that we can anticipate in the future. Under President Obama, nearly 150 detainees have been released; and just last week, the President released four more hardened terrorists, creating a recruiting environment with a legacy of not being serious about murderous attacks in the future. The President should promote a legacy of peace, not more attacks. The administration's own numbers reveal that as many as one-third of the terrorists from Guantanamo return to the battlefield to kill American families. In March, senior officials from the administration even testified that former prisoners from Guantanamo were responsible for American deaths. I appreciate that President-elect Donald Trump does not support releasing terrorists from Guantanamo Bay, and I look forward to working with him to keep Guantanamo open. He knows that imprisonment is a deterrent to protect American families. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, in an Associated Press article titled, ``As Obama accomplished goals, the Democratic party floundered,'' the disastrous statistics of the Obama legacy were revealed. The Associated Press analyzed: There's one number you will almost never hear: more than 1,030 seats. That's the number of spots in State legislatures, Governor's mansions, and Congress lost by Democrats during Obama's Presidency. It is a statistic that reveals an unexpected twist of the Obama years. The Associated Press went on to say: The defeats have all but wiped out a generation of young Democrats, leaving the party with limited power in statehouses and a thin bench to challenge an ascendant GOP majority eager to undo many of the President's policies . . . but, say experts, Obama's tenure has marked the greatest number of losses under any President in decades. When it comes time to the battle of programs, American families overwhelmingly choose limited government and expanded freedom over the alternative: Big Government and lesser freedom. This is clear with the failing of ObamaCare destroying jobs. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Congratulations to our colleague Congressman Ted Poe on his remission under treatment of cancer. God bless Ted Poe.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Ed Royce for yielding. I appreciate your leadership for peace. I am in strong support of the House resolution, which is taking a firm stand and clear stand objecting to the United Nations Security Council resolution as an obstacle to Israeli-Palestinian peace. The United States has stood with Israel against one-sided, biased resolutions at the United Nations and in other international forums. Additionally, the United States has been adamant that a peaceful resolution will only come from direct, bilateral negotiations, not addressed by an international forum. The distorted ideology of moral neutrality is suicidal for civilization, encouraging what the chairman correctly identified as ``pay for slay,'' as evidenced by the murder of American tourist Taylor Force just last year. On December 23, my constituents were shocked as the Obama administration betrayed the people of Israel, undermining the peace process by failing to veto the U.N. Security Council resolution. President Obama and Secretary Kerry's actions revealed dangerous irresponsibility, putting Israeli and American families at risk of more terrorist attacks. Fortunately, Governor Nikki Haley, President-elect Donald Trump's appointee, will soon be making a positive difference as U.N. Ambassador of the United States, promoting peace through strength. Today, I am grateful to stand strong with Israel by being an original cosponsor of H. Res. 11. I appreciate the leadership of Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Chairman Ed Royce, and Ranking Member Eliot Engel for sponsoring this resolution. I urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the first day of the 115th Congress, the House of Representatives elected Paul Davis Ryan to serve as Speaker of the House. I have been grateful to serve with Speaker Ryan, a proven conservative, throughout my service in Congress and can attest to his commitment to conservative values with innovative thoughtfulness. Under Speaker Ryan's leadership, House Republicans last year passed meaningful legislation providing greater outreach service for veterans, reinforcing local control of education, ending the 40-year ban on crude oil exports, combating the opioid epidemic, passing the National Defense Authorization Act, and enacting sweeping mental health reform. Speaker Ryan also launched A Better Way, a bold policy agenda that presents meaningful initiatives for restoring a confident America by presenting solutions to address poverty, grow our economy to create jobs, defend the Constitution, improve health care by repealing the failing ObamaCare, reform the Tax Code, and strengthen the military. I was grateful to cast my vote for Speaker Ryan, and I look forward to working with him, President-elect Donald Trump, and Vice President- elect Mike Pence in the new Congress to deliver policies of limited government and expanded freedom for American families. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today, President-elect Donald Trump selected Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt to serve as administrator of the Environment Protection Agency--yet another positive choice for the American people. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal notes, ``As the chief legal officer of a major oil and natural-gas producing state, Mr. Pruitt, a Republican, has led legal fights against some of President Barack Obama's most significant environmental rules, and one of his major roles as EPA administrator would likely be to roll back those regulations.'' President-elect Trump stated that Attorney General Pruitt will, ``restore the EPA's essential mission of keeping our air and our water clean and safe.'' As the grateful father of South Carolina's Attorney General Alan Wilson, I know firsthand the tenacity and dedication to upholding the Constitution and protecting American families that state Attorneys General have. I look forward to Attorney General Pruitt's success in his new role, promoting limited government and expanded freedom. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and may the President by his actions never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, reports indicate that President-elect Donald Trump plans to select former Marine Corps General John Kelly to run the Department of Homeland Security--yet another excellent appointment which will protect American families. The Washington Times announced, ``General Kelly caught the eye of Mr. Trump's top advisers with a forceful appearance before Congress in 2014 and 2015, where he said he was shocked at how easily smugglers were able to penetrate the U.S.-Mexico border, and said it represented a major hole in national security.'' General Kelly embodies the highest ideals of military service. He served with distinction in the Marine Corps, rising through the ranks to run U.S. Southern Command. As Commander, he has been critical in disrupting how organized crime networks run drugs, weapons, etc., through networks in the Western Hemisphere. As the grateful father of four sons who have all served overseas in the Global War on Terrorism, I appreciate General Kelly's dedication and leadership. I am confident in his future success. Congratulations again to General Kelly and his entire family on this exciting new role. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and may the President by his actions never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Wednesday, President- elect Donald Trump selected Linda McMahon of Greenwich, Connecticut, to head the Small Business Administration where she will continue to make a difference with vision to create opportunities and jobs. President-elect Trump announced, ``Linda has a tremendous background and is widely recognized as one of the country's top female executives advising businesses around the world . . . Linda is going to be a phenomenal leader and champion for small businesses and unleash America's entrepreneurial spirit across the country.'' The Hartford Courant reported, ``The mother of two and grandmother of six, McMahon is a fiscally conservative Republican who embraces the party's small-government ethos. In her two runs for Senate, she campaigned on a promise to bring fresh energy, a businesswoman's savvy and an outsider's common-sense approach to Washington.'' I believe that Linda McMahon will be a passionate advocate for small businesses and further facilitate a climate of job creation in this country. I look forward to working with Ms. McMahon to create jobs and expand opportunity for all Americans. The citizens of Connecticut are being recognized for their entrepreneurial expertise. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and may the President by his actions 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 that President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Dr. Ben Carson to serve as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, where he will promote opportunity for success for everyone. President-elect Trump announced: ``Ben Carson has a brilliant mind and is passionate about strengthening communities and families within those communities . . . Ben shares my optimism about the future of our country and is part of ensuring that this is a Presidency representing all Americans.'' Dr. Carson knows that there is power in education and hard work. He earned a full scholarship to Yale University, received his doctorate from the University of Michigan, and then, at just age 33, became the director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins. With his dear wife, Candy, he started the Carson Scholars Fund, a valuable national scholarship program to empower students from all backgrounds to strive for academic excellence and community service. Our Nation is fortunate that Dr. Ben Carson has been nominated to this important position, and I am confident in his future success for American families. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. 9/11 was the Pearl Harbor of our era, being a surprise attack on our civilization. President-elect Donald Trump, with Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis, will lead us to victory to protect American families.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as a son of a World War II Flying Tiger who served in India and China, a 31-year veteran myself, and the grateful father of four sons who served overseas in the Global War on Terrorism, I truly appreciated the remarks of President-elect Donald J. Trump in Fayetteville, North Carolina, on December 6, 2016 promoting our military and our military families. Remarks as Prepared for Delivery by President-Elect Donald J. Trump I am here today for one main reason: to say thank you to the people of North Carolina. You went out and pounded the pavement, organized your fellow citizens, and propelled to victory a grassroots movement the likes of which the world has never seen before. I want to give a very special thank you to the incredible military families, service members and Veterans of North Carolina. Your state's legacy of service is an inspiration to us all. North Carolina has produced many of the finest soldiers, airmen, sailors and marines the world has ever seen. Our men and women in uniform represent the very best of us. We must follow their example: working in unison toward a shared goal across every social, racial and economic line. They understand that to accomplish the mission, we must all be pulling in the same direction. And they know that we must leave no man or woman behind. These patriots have shed their blood to defend our country in distant fields of battle across the Earth. Our debt to them is eternal and everlasting. We salute their sacrifice, and we salute the flag they fought to protect. Tomorrow is the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor. It is a milestone that marks the ultimate sacrifice of those who wear the uniform. It is a reminder, too, of the valiant efforts of America's fighting men and women who have liberated millions from tyranny and oppression. Now, today, our brave men and women are the first line of defense against Radical Islamic Terrorism--an ideology of death that slaughters innocent men, women and children. In every generation, a new threat to freedom arises. And just as we defeated the threats we faced in generations past, so too will we defeat the forces of terrorism. We will prevail. We stand here today just miles from Fort Bragg, the home of heroes. Our Special Forces at Fort Bragg have been the tip of the spear in fighting terrorism. The motto of our Army Special Forces is `to free the oppressed' and that is exactly what they have been doing. At this very moment, soldiers from Fort Bragg are deployed in 90 countries. Based in Fort Bragg is the 82nd Airborne Division--also known as The All-American Division. We stand in awe of their achievements. Not far from here sits forty-five percent of the entire United States Marine Corps, at Camp Lejeune. 12,000 citizen-soldiers fill the ranks of the North Carolina Army and Air National Guard. The National Guard rushed to the scene to help the victims of Hurricane Matthew, and we continue to send our thoughts and prayers to those recovering in its wake. The military families in North Carolina are a national treasure, and it will be the duty of my Administration to ensure that we protect those who protect us. That brings me to the second reason I am here today: to discuss our Action Plan To Make America Great Again-- beginning with the rebuilding of our military and taking care of our Vets. Here are the priorities that will guide our Military and Veterans Policy: --All men and women in uniform will have the supplies, support, equipment, training, services, medical care, and resources they need to get the job done. --The best care in the world for our Veterans, both at public VA facilities, as well as the right to see a private doctor. --And finally, a commitment to only engage the use of military forces when it is in the vital national security interests of the United States. From now on, it's going to be: America First. We will stop racing to topple foreign regimes. Instead, our focus must be on defeating terrorism and destroying ISIS. Any nation that shares these goals will be our partner in this mission. We want to strengthen old friendships and seek out new friendships. Rather than a rigid dogma, we are guided by the lessons of history and a desire to promote stability: this destructive cycle of intervention and chaos must come to an end. We seek harmony and goodwill among the nations of the world--and we believe that respect for mutual sovereignty helps form the basis of trust and understanding. We build up our military not as an act of aggression, but as an act of prevention. We pursue and build up arms not in order to seek conflict, but in order to avoid conflict. In short, we seek Peace Through Strength. That is why, in my first budget report to Congress, I am going to ask for the elimination of the defense sequester. We will show the world that America is going to be strong again. But in order to succeed with our defense policy, we must find the right person to lead our Defense Department. That is why I am proud to formally announce today my intention to nominate General James ``Mad Dog'' Mattis as the next Secretary of Defense for the United States of America. Jim is a Marine Corps four-star general, the former Commander of U.S. Central Command and NATO's Supreme Allied Commander for Transformation. He led an assault battalion in Operation Desert Storm, led the Forces that went after the Taliban, and commanded the First Marine Division in Iraq. He is one of the most effective generals and extraordinary leaders of our time, who has committed his life to his love for our country. General Mattis is the living embodiment of the Marine Corps motto, `Semper Fidelis,' always faithful, and the American people are fortunate that a man of his character and integrity will now be the civilian leader atop the Department of Defense. Under his leadership, we will rebuild our military and alliances, destroy terrorists, face our enemies head on, and make America safe again . . .''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, sadly, on November 24, 2016, the Midlands of South Carolina lost a beloved business leader and civic volunteer with the death of Judy Davis. As Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer for BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, she achieved extraordinary professional success. The following obituary was published in The State newspaper of Columbia, South Carolina on November 30, 2016: Columbia.--Judith Monastra Davis, 57, of Columbia, South Carolina passed away unexpectedly on November 24, 2016 at Palmetto Health Richland following an extended illness. She was born on January 13, 1959 in Mansfield, Ohio to Basil Herman Monastra and Carmella Greer Monastra of Lexington, Ohio, who survive. She also is survived by her husband of thirty years, Gerald L. (Jerry) Davis, Jr. of Columbia, South Carolina. In addition, she is survived by a brother, James Monastra and aunt, Carol Greer, both of Lexington, Ohio. Judy earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from Ohio Northern University, graduating summa cum laude in 1981. She earned her Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from The Ohio State University in 1984, where she also was recognized as the Moot Court Distinguished Oralist. She began her corporate law career and met her husband at Lincoln National Corporation in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1984. They were married on March 15, 1986 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Fort Wayne where they have maintained their parish membership. At Lincoln National, Judy worked in various legal, strategic planning, and domestic and international mergers and acquisitions positions over 10 years. She helped that company to develop and receive one of the first U.S. patents in the insurance industry for the use of artificial intelligence in the underwriting of life reinsurance and she led the spinoff of a subsidiary health insurance company in a billion-dollar public offering. Recruited to BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina in 1995 as Vice President and General Counsel, her intellect, expertise, broad and deep experience, and emotional intelligence made her a valuable member of the corporation's senior leadership team. In 2007, she was promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer where she served as the senior officer responsible for five of the corporation's subsidiaries including Companion Life Insurance Company, Companion Captive Insurance, Companion Property & Casualty Insurance Company, and UCI Medical Affiliates, as well as having three corporate divisions reporting to her--Law, Government Affairs and Corporate Marketing Communications. She also served as the corporation's Secretary. Judy lived a full and engaging life as a champion for her community, leaving an indelible imprint. She served on the boards of directors and in leadership positions for many nonprofit, civic and educational entities, lending her gracious and genuine leadership style and skills to each organization. In 2006, she was pressed into replacement service as chairman for the United Way of the Midlands campaign and helped to raise $9.5 million. She worked tirelessly and shared her passion for connecting people and ideas with the United Way of the Midlands, the Central Carolina Community Foundation, the South Carolina Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, Trinity Housing Corporation, EngenuitySC, SC Launch, the Palmetto Conservation Foundation, Columbia College and the South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics, as well as many other organizations. Judy was especially known and appreciated throughout the state as a mentor, cheerleader and champion to countless people from all walks of life for whom she served as an inspiration and role model. She always valued kindness and often would wake up early in the morning and ask her husband, ``Who can I help today?'' She believed that if you put yourself out there and convince others to join in, meaningful differences can be made with only modest efforts to improve people's lives. For colleagues and friends alike, Judy took it as a personal responsibility and challenge to find ways to lift people up and to help them to realize their untapped potential. She did this because it was an important part of who she was. It was never a job requirement. A recipient of numerous awards and accolades for her professional and philanthropic efforts, in 2010, the Girl Scouts of South Carolina Mountains to Midlands recognized her as a Woman of Distinction. In 2011, Insurance Networking News (INN) named her one of six nationally recognized Women in Insurance Leadership winners. In 2014, Judy received the prestigious Humanitarian of the Year award from the United Way of the Midlands. Her family wishes to express its deep and heartfelt thanks to the caring and loving staff at South Carolina Oncology Associates in Columbia, as well as to the other health professionals who contributed to her care over the past year. At Judy's request, the family will hold a brief reception for her friends and colleagues on Thursday, December 15 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the new United Way of the Midlands Center at 1818 Blanding Street in downtown Columbia, South Carolina. A private, family interment service will be held later in Mansfield, Ohio. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the United Way of the Midlands Legacy Fund, the Central Carolina Community Foundation, Columbia College South Carolina, and The Northern Fund at Ohio Northern University.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, South Carolinians are mourning the recent passing of Cathy Blackburn Novinger who achieved the highest levels of business, civic, and philanthropic success. Her affection for the citizens of South Carolina is evident from the following obituary published in The State newspaper of Columbia, South Carolina on November 29, 2016: Cheraw.--Cathy Blackburn Novinger passed away November 27, 2016 at her home in Cheraw, SC after a heroic battle with ovarian cancer. She was the CEO of Palmetto AgriBusiness Council and President and CEO of Novinger QTR, Inc. Born April 7th, 1949 in Portsmouth, Ohio, she was the daughter of Leona Collingsworth Blackburn and the late Donald Everett Blackburn. She is survived by her mother; her husband of 48 years, Robert L. Novinger; her son, Dr. Travis Novinger and daughter in law, Laurie Novinger; grandchildren, Taylor Novinger and Abbey Novinger; sister, Donna Blackburn Jumper and brother in law, Henry Jumper; niece, Cristie Russell; nephew, Tyler Russell (Sarah); great niece, Emma Grace Russell; and brother in law Dean Novinger (Lisa). Cathy received her Business Administration Degree from Southeastern Business College and was a graduate of the Edison Electric Institute's Electric Utility Executive Management Program. She moved to her adopted city of Columbia, SC in 1968 where she went to work for SCANA Corporation as a file clerk and rose to Vice President at the early age of 32, retiring as Senior Vice President in 1999. Her career as a Senior Officer and Senior Public Policy Maker for SCANA included roles in economic development, communications, labor relations, governmental affairs, strategic planning, human resources and public relations. After retiring from SCANA, she was chosen to lead the state's new agribusiness association, Palmetto AgriBusiness Council and under her leadership for 16 years, the Council became a unified voice for South Carolina's largest industry of agriculture and forestry. It was also at this time she formed her consulting company, Novinger QTR, Inc. After her diagnosis of ovarian cancer and seeing the need to educate women about this deadly disease, Cathy founded an ovarian cancer organization, today known as the Ovarian Cancer Coalition of Central SC, which brings awareness to the symptoms and the importance of early detection. She served as the organization's Board chair since 2006. She began the Coalition's signature event, the Ovarian Cancer Butterfly Release which is held every September at the State House to honor and remember those affected by ovarian cancer. She became a symbol of inspiration and hope to women who were battling this disease. An advocate for improving the quality of life in her community, Cathy earned a lifetime of achievements and honors including: the University of South Carolina Honorary Doctorate Degree of Public Service, 2011 Humanitarian of the Year, 2010 Ag Advocate of the Year, 2010 West Metro Chamber Lifetime Achievement Award, 2006 Ambassador of the Year, 1999 Order of the Palmetto, SC Historical Foundation Society Businesswoman of the Year, SC Schools Public Relations Association Outstanding Leader in Education, Ohio Council of Colleges Outstanding Private Career Graduate, SC Business & Professional Women's Career Woman of the Year, Columbia Metropolitan Magazine's Five Women of the Decade and Midlands Top 25 Influential Leaders. During her professional career, Cathy served on numerous Boards and Commissions including: Midlands Business Leadership Group, Advocates for Agriculture, SC Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, SC Office of Rural Health Board, SC State University Board of Trustees, USC School of Medicine Partnership Board, SC State Board for Technical & Comprehensive Education (past chair), Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors (past chair), Lexington Medical Center Foundation Board, SC Civil Justice Coalition (past chair), SC Department of Commerce Executive Committee, Midlands Housing Alliance (past chair), The River Alliance Executive Committee, USC Dean's Council- College of Hospitality, SC Research Authority Board of Trustees (past chair) and Cultural Council of Richland and Lexington Counties (past chair). On the national level, she served on the White House Council on Rural America as chair, Southern States Energy Board Utility Advisory Council, the U.S. Business & Industry Council Board of Trustees and the Junior Achievement National Liaison. Cathy lived her life devoted to her God, her family and her community. As much as she loved her work, she loved her family even more. Her legacy will live on in the paths she has blazed, the many lives she has impacted and her profound sense of service to others. We will miss her goodness and grace. The family would like to thank Dr. Greg Konduras, Lexington Family Practice; the staff at SC Oncology Associates, especially Dr. Terry Smith and Dr. William Merritt and nurses, Kathy Chavis and Mary Leitch; Ultra Med Plus, Cheryl Evans; Gentiva and the staff at Embrace Hospice, especially Jamie Perkins, Cathy's Administrative Assistant, NRS Sandy Boozer and the Eleventh floor, Palmetto Health Richland. Funeral service will be held Sunday, December 4, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. at Trinity Baptist Church, 2003 Charleston Highway, Cayce. Burial will be in Elmwood Cemetery, Columbia. A visitation will be held Saturday, December 3, 2016 from 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Trinity Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to the Ovarian Cancer Coalition of Central SC, 602 Meeting Street, Suite B, West Columbia, SC 29169.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on December 7, 1941, our nation was attacked. Today marks the 75th anniversary of the day that will live in infamy of the surprise attack. Today is a time to honor the courage and sacrifice of those two thousand service members that lost their lives in this devastating attack. President Franklin Roosevelt stated that ``no matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people, in their righteous might, will win through to absolute victory.'' As the son of a World War II Flying Tiger of the U.S. Army Air Corps, 14th Air Force, who served in India and China, I am inspired by the service from this time. They are stories of how the American people met this unspeakable tragedy head on with remarkable determination. I believe that it is this same strength that has carried our great nation through trials since World War II and will be a firm foundation for our future, learning the importance of peace through strength. As a grateful 31-year veteran and the father of four sons who have all served overseas in the Global War on Terrorism, I believe in the power of our armed forces and the righteous might they demonstrate in the face of conflicts around the world promoting peace through strength while liberating dozens of countries. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and may the President by his actions never forget September 11th in the Global War of Terrorism. September 11th was the Pearl Harbor of our era with a surprise attack to destroy our civilization.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful that President-elect Donald Trump has made another excellent appointment in selecting General Jim Mattis to serve as Secretary of Defense to rebuild our military. A recent article in The Wall Street Journal notes, ``General Mattis has seen the cost of wars enough to want to deter them, but he also knows that if you fight them you need to do so with the force and will to win.'' President-elect Trump stated that General Jim Mattis is ``the closest thing to General George Patton that we have.'' The recent service of General Mattis in the Middle East makes him uniquely qualified to address threats to servicemembers overseas and American families here at home. With General Mattis serving as Secretary of Defense, our military will continue to be the best fighting force in the world, our men and women in uniform will be supported, and our military families will be protected. As a 31-year veteran and the grateful dad of four sons who have served overseas in the global war on terrorism, I am confident that our goal of peace through strength will be achieved under the leadership of General Jim Mattis. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today, I am grateful to express my appreciation to Lieutenant Colonel Rocko Rodriguez, U.S. Air Force, of San Antonio, Texas. For the past year, I have had the privilege of working alongside Rocko in the office as he served the people of South Carolina's Second Congressional District as a defense fellow on assignment from the Air Force. Lieutenant Colonel Rodriguez was commissioned in 2001, through the Officer Training School at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. He distinguished himself early as a leader, holding various positions in special operations and cyber operations. Rocko has served honorably in Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom, Southern Watch, and Deny Flight. Rocko is a dedicated member of the Air Force with academic achievements. He will graduate from the Air Force Legislative Fellowship program this Thursday and will receive his masters of science degree from Georgetown University Government Affairs Institute. Lieutenant Colonel Rodriguez will soon be transitioning to work at the U.S. Cyber Command Legislative Affairs Branch. I wish Rocko, his wife, Sarah, and his four children, Kaitlyn, Natalie, Troy, and Timothy, all the best for continued success. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, 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 Chairman Mac Thornberry for yielding. I am grateful for his success in promoting peace through strength. I am in strong support of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2017. Generations of my family have served our Nation in uniform. My father was a Flying Tiger in India and China during World War II. I served for 31 years in the Army Reserve and South Carolina Army Guard. I am grateful to have four sons who have served in the military overseas in the global war on terrorism. I know firsthand the positive impact this year's NDAA will have on our troops, veterans, and military families. After passing this bill, I look forward to telling my constituents at Fort Jackson, adjacent to McEntire Joint Air Base, neighboring Fort Gordon, and the thousands of veterans and countless families concerned about the safety of our citizens that Congress has done its job, just as it has for the past 54 years, by passing a defense authorization bill. In this bill, readiness is first, protecting our servicemembers overseas and on training missions at home. Cybersecurity is enhanced, protecting American families and encouraging public-private partnerships. We are fully resourcing our Special Operations Forces and providing critical support to fight Islamic terrorists, including counter-propaganda measures. We have increased oversight by requiring a report from the President on Iran as it aggressively acts on ICBMs. This bill is clear, if our enemies attack our soldiers and American families with new and unconventional attacks, we will ensure our military has the tools to respond. As chairman of the Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, I am very grateful as a military veteran and as a grateful dad that this is a very positive NDAA. I would like to close again by thanking Chairman Thornberry for his remarkable persistence throughout this year's reforms. We also have been fortunate to have the visionary leadership of subcommittee chairman Randy Forbes, who has successfully promoted a vibrant Navy. I additionally want to thank our ranking members Adam Smith and Jim Langevin for their bipartisan manner. This bill will enable President- elect Donald Trump and the incoming Defense Secretary Jim Mattis to establish peace through strength.

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.