Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to congratulate Deputy Staff Director for the House Armed Services Committee, Jenness Bergeron Simler and her husband, Gary Warren Schuerfeld, on the birth of their new baby girl. Annibel Frances ``B.B.'' Schuerfeld who was born at 11:24 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2015, at Palmetto Baptist Hospital in Columbia, South Carolina. She weighed eight pounds and two ounces and measured 20 and \1/2\ inches long. I have no doubt her talented parents will be dedicated to her well-being and bright future. I would also like to congratulate her brother, Taggart McRae Schuerfeld, and grandparents, Shellie Ann Kenna Simler of Tucson, Arizona, and Pierre Bergeron Simler of Litchfield, Connecticut. Congratulations to her entire family as they welcome their newest addition of pure pride and joy.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, April 10, 2016, a Celebration of Life was conducted for William Otis West, Sr., at Holland Avenue Baptist Church of West Columbia, South Carolina, with services warmly conducted by Pastor Dow Welsh, Pastor Charles Wilson, and Dr. Bill Davidson. Musical selections were performed by Carroll Crawford, Bobby Bland, Bob Michalski, Emily Lipscombe, and Stacey Arnold. I was grateful to provide a remembrance along with Lexington County Chronicle Editor Jerry Bellune. A thoughtful obituary was published March 31, 2016, in the Lexington County Chronicle: West Columbia.--William O. ``Bill'' West passed away peacefully on Friday, March 25, 2016, at the age of 76. He was born in 1939, a son of Elizabeth and Edward West in Spartanburg, S.C. Bill was a well-known face and voice in television and radio in South Carolina but his heart was always in newspaper journalism. Despite severe health problems, Bill continued to serve South Carolina journalism through a long career as editor of The Dispatch-News in Lexington and recently as columnist and senior editor at the Lexington County Chronicle. His passion for print led him to serve the South Carolina Press Association as editor of the SCPA Bulletin. Bill was honored to be named State Journalist of the Year in 2009. He was also honored for his coverage of the community by a local activist group that calls itself the Cayce Mafia, and with the Order of the Palmetto Patriot by Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer and long-time political activist Mickey Lindler. After being named S.C. Press Association Journalist of the Year, Bill's comment was, ``I wasn't called to the pulpit, but to the press. And the past 50 years I have been very blessed by people, my writing and my God.'' Bill is survived by his wife Anne Foster West; four children and their spouses, Suzanne Davidson and Joe, Fred West and Michelle, Joe West and Elizabeth, and Billy West; six grandchildren, Bryce Davidson, Alex Davidson, Connor Davidson, Foster West, Grace Anne West and Joseph West, and a brother, Eddie West. Services will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 10, 2016, at Holland Avenue Baptist Church, 12th Street in Cayce. The Rev. Dow Welsh, The Rev. Charles Wilson and Dr. Bill Davidson will officiate. The family will receive friends immediately after the service. Donations in his memory may be made to the Flower Ministry at Holland Avenue Baptist Church. My remembrance remarks for the Holland Avenue Baptist Church service are presented: Ladies and Gentlemen, Family and friends of Bill and Anne West, I am humbled and grateful that Bill has requested I participate in this celebration of life, especially in the company of Jerry Bellune and his wife MacLeod Bellune, who love this community and the West family. Holland Avenue Baptist has extraordinary members. This year in January I attended the celebration of life of Johnnie Neese, a lady who made a positive difference, as a founder of a new political party in the 1960s, which is now the majority party of our community and state. She and her husband Harry were courageous. It is clear that Bill West, a gentleman, has made a positive difference. I share his passion for print media as I was editor of my high school, college and law school newspapers, but unlike Bill, he was a superstar, being editor of the The Dispatch-News, then on to edit the South Carolina Press Association Bulletin, becoming the S.C. Press Association Journalist of the Year in 2009, before enthusiastically being a columnist and senior editor of the Lexington County Chronicle. I saw firsthand of his professionalism, not as a journalist, but as an elected official who he professionally grilled. His thoughtful questions were very perceptive and he was evenhanded, asking the same questions, in the same tone, to friend or foe. He fulfilled his duty to inform the public with a community newspaper. I will always cherish his evenhandedness and even though he knew I admired him, his inquiries were solid and not fluff. He respected the readers by providing the truth for them to determine their views. When he called, I always dropped everything to return the call because I knew he had a strict deadline. I also hoped it would give me a chance to speak with Anne. They are a great team raising four wonderful children and six talented grandchildren who mean so much to Roxanne and myself. I am grateful to Bill for giving me the opportunity to be here today with a dedicated wife, family and friends. I know the Lord has welcomed Bill. ``Well done, Good and Faithful Servant.'' God Bless the West Family.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, in a letter to the President, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce revealed, ``Since your administration announced normalized relations with Havana, the regime's repression of basic human rights has gone from bad to worse. In the first 2 months of 2016 alone, the Cuban Commission for Human Rights has documented a staggering 2,588 political arrests. In spite of this, reports suggest that you will soon announce'' ``more one-sided concessions that will serve to shore up the communist Castro regime.'' While visiting Havana, the President supports plans to end the embargo, yet ignores the fact that increased trade will not reach the Cuban people. It will benefit the Cuban military and intelligence agencies which have stolen Cuba's most profitable industries. The President's bizarre legacy has led to more repression as the failed socialist dictatorship is propped up. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Belgium and Prime Minister Charles Michel as the global war on terrorism continues.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to congratulate Sarah Lumley and her husband, Nick Lumley, on the birth of their new baby girl. Brynlee Elizabeth Lumley was born at 4:27 p.m. on Wednesday, March 16, 2016, at University Hospital in Augusta, Georgia. Brynlee weighed seven pounds and ten ounces and measured 20 and 3/4 inches long. She is the first child for the happy couple and I have no doubt her talented parents will be dedicated to her well-being and bright future. I would also like to congratulate Brynlee's grandparents, Jerry and Dawn Barber of Jackson, South Carolina, and John and Valerie Zentz of North Augusta, South Carolina. Congratulations to her entire family as they welcome their newest addition of pure pride and joy.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the President's failing visit to Cuba was dismissed by the Communist foreign minister, who declared ``under no circumstance is the realization of internal changes in Cuba on the negotiation table.'' Since the President's outreach to the Castro dictatorship, the consequence has been a surge in dissident arrests of patriots who overestimated the hope and change that a relationship might bring. Sadly, by doing business with the Castro regime, the benefits of trade will not reach the Cuban people. It will enrich the Cuban military, which stole about 70 percent of companies in the most profitable industries. This failure follows the Iranian nuclear deal, providing over $100 billion to a regime that proclaims ``death to America'' and ``death to Israel.'' By failing to stop ISIL-Daesh, the President's legacy has led to Syrians fleeing, children drowning at sea, and chemical weapons attacks killing Iraqi children in their homes. The President can still change course to promote a strong America with peace through strength. 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 we learned that ISIL/Daesh has continued their use of chemical attacks against innocent civilians, including children, with two attacks in northern Iraq. Over 600 people suffered burns, suffocation, and dehydration. And, sadly, a young child, Fatima, died from Saturday's murderous attack. Officials have confirmed that ISIL has used chlorine and low-grade mustard gas to kill, incapacitate, and incite fear. Recent news reports say ISIL developed a special unit for chemical and biological attacks, which is a threat to American families. It is sad that the President's legacy is weakness. He has not submitted a plan to Congress to defeat ISIL, and has repeatedly belittled their threat of mass murder to American families. His legacy of failure is drowned children fleeing violence and dead children from chemical attacks. I am grateful that the House of Representatives took a decisive stance against ISIL this week, accurately calling actions against Christians and other minorities genocide. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. God bless Hammond School.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, sadly, South Carolina has lost a native son, C. Marshall Kibler, who was one of our state's most respected and admired business leaders. He fulfilled a rewarding life as a Southern Gentleman. He co-founded one of South Carolina's leading commercial real estate firms with Jeremy Wilson, now associated with Newmark Grubb. I especially appreciate his ability to select and mentor young professionals to achieve success. The following obituary is from The State of Columbia, S.C. on March 15, 2016: Columbia.--C. Marshall Kibler passed away unexpectedly, Sunday, March 13, 2016, after a brief illness. He was predeceased by his parents, Clarence Marshall Kibler and Eleanor VanBenthuysen Roman Kibler. A lifelong resident of Columbia, Marshall was a graduate of A.C. Flora High School, where he played football and was a member of the Dark Horseman Club. Mr. Kibler was a graduate of The University of South Carolina. He was cofounder and president of Wilson Kibler, Inc., a statewide commercial real estate firm with offices in Columbia, Charleston, Myrtle Beach and Greenville. Mr. Kibler was a founding member of The Capital Rotary Club, where he served as President and was a Paul Harris Fellow. His real estate designations include the Society of Industrial and Office Realtor (SIOR) and Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM). He was also actively involved with the Executives' Association of Greater Columbia (EAGC). Marshall served as president of The Palmetto Little League in 1992, the year the Wilson Kibler team was the league champions. He also served on the board of Cooperative Ministry. Mr. Kibler was a member of Forest Lake Club, the Pine Tree Hunt Club, the Columbia Cotillion Club, the Centurion Society, the Quadrille Club, the Flamenco Club and the Palmetto Club. He had an interest in history and was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution. He is survived by his beloved best friend and wife of 40 years, Anna Belle Heyward Kibler; his children, Heyward Haskell Kibler (Rula), Sarah Rhett Kibler Brewer (Brooks), and Anna Belle ``Boo'' Kibler Moca (Steven). He was affectionately known as ``Kib'' by his seven adoring grandchildren, Jones Emile Kibler, Heyward Julian Kibler, Sarah Taylor Rhett Brewer, Townes Brooks Brewer, Anna Belle Heyward Brewer, Henry Marshall Moca, and William Rhett Moca. Also surviving are his sister, Eleanor Kibler ``Cis'' Ellison (Hagood) and brother, E. Robertson ``Bud'' Kibler (Beth). Marshall enjoyed his second home in Little Switzerland, NC where he loved time with his grandchildren, relaxing and otherwise doing very little. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 o'clock, Thursday, March 17th, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 3600 Devine Street, Columbia, with The Rev. Msgr. Richard D. Harris officiating. Final Commendation and Farewell Prayers will follow at Elmwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the home, 8 Ashley Court, Columbia, from 4 until 6 o'clock, Wednesday evening. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, for the benefit of St. Joseph Catholic School, memorials may be made to The Central Carolina Community Foundation, Kibler Scholarship Fund, 2711 Middleburg Drive, Suite 213, Columbia,

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last week the American people lost a devoted public servant, Nancy Davis Reagan. As a former staff member of the Reagan administration, I will always appreciate the devotion of Nancy Reagan to the American people, especially to her husband ``Ronnie.'' Nancy Reagan will always be cherished for how she inspired a Nation and showed that goodwill prevailed. She demonstrated that service by showing small acts could make a world of difference. Nancy's fierce love for her husband and her country was her service. A passionate advocate for drug awareness and prevention, Nancy Reagan launched the ``Just Say No'' program to fight drug and alcohol abuse among young people to promote fulfilling lives. She strived to always make a positive impact for our citizens. Mrs. Reagan showed that no act of kindness, no act of love, is too small to be meaningful. She practiced what she preached, living every day to the fullest. In every sense of the word, she was the very model of a First Lady, wife, and mother. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Happy 13th birthday, Addison.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to congratulate Dan Earl Jones, Chairman of the South Carolina Cable Television Association from 2015-2016 and Vice President of Government Relations and Time Warner Cable of South Carolina, on his upcoming retirement. In over 30 years as a community advocate in the state of South Carolina, Dan has achieved an exemplary and successful career. He has served with numerous organizations including the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, the Columbia and Charleston Optimist Clubs, the Brookland- Cayce High School Education Foundation, and the Lexington Medical Center Board of Directors. A graduate of Charleston Southern University, he also currently serves on its Board of Visitors. I am grateful for his admirable service and dedication to the community. While having the opportunity to serve in the South Carolina Senate and now Congress receiving briefings from Dan, I always could count on his integrity and honesty.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yesterday Economics Professor Peter Morici of the University of Maryland in The Washington Times cited facts the American people need to know: ``President Obama would like us to believe things are getting better every day, but average median incomes are down about $1,650 on his watch. Elderly women are working in record numbers because pensions and retirement incomes are being decimated.'' ``Young folks, bogged down by student loans, can't buy homes and face rocketing apartment rents.'' ``Should the economy tumble, Hillary Clinton will try to buy off voters with more Obama-vintage free stuff that makes creating jobs in the private sector so tough.'' ``Expanding ObamaCare-mandated benefits will push up prices for drugs, medical services, and insurance premiums even more and cause employers to hire even fewer workers.'' ``Instead of more jobs, America will have more debt and more employers fleeing.'' ``America did not become a superpower by being timid, and it's time for a President who understands this.'' 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, last Wednesday The Post and Courier, under the leadership of publisher Pamela Browning and editorial page editor Charles Rowe, editorialized: President Barack Obama has asked Congress to agree to close the prison at Guantanamo . . . Governor Nikki Haley, Senator Tim Scott, and Republicans on the South Carolina delegation are right to reject his call . . . Even the President has to follow the law. In a world that has given rise to the Islamic State, it is hard to credit the argument that the existence of Guantanamo incites terror. In a recent op-ed column for the Washington Post, Gordon England, a former Deputy Secretary of Defense, observed that some of the terrorists who have been released from Guantanamo have returned to the same nefarious activities for which they have been jailed. Those who remain had a record of participating in terrorism, financing terrorism, or outright leadership of terrorism activity, Mr. England wrote. In a little over 4 weeks, Mr. Obama is headed to Cuba for a state visit with the Castro brothers, who may be considered experts in the use of political prisons. 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 am happy to congratulate Chad Sydnor, Military Legislative Assistant for Senator Richard Burr, and his wife, Alli Sydnor, on the birth of their twin girls. Abigail Wesson Sydnor and Anna Louise Sydnor were born at 8:10 a.m. on Friday, February 19, 2016, at Inova Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church, Virginia. Abigail weighed six pounds and measured 19 inches long and Anna weighed five pounds and three ounces and measured 18 and \1/2\ inches long. They are the first children for the happy couple and I have no doubt their talented parents will be dedicated to their well-being and bright future. I would also like to congratulate Abigail and Anna's grandparents, Robert and Christal Blakely of Great Falls, Virginia, and Charles and Cindy Sydnor of Snow Camp, North Carolina. Congratulations to both the Blakely and Sydnor families as they welcome their newest additions of pure pride and joys.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful today to recognize the State of South Carolina being named by Foreign Direct Investment magazine for its superior achievement in foreign direct investment. South Carolina was identified for leading the Nation in foreign direct investment and also being the top State for expansion. The probusiness climate, superior workforce being trained by technical colleges, and quality of life make South Carolina the natural choice for any business looking to locate or expand, creating jobs, as done by Dr. Susan Windsor of Aiken Technical College. In 2015, South Carolina was also recognized for their record-breaking total export sales. It was the top Southeastern State. For the second consecutive year, the State was the top exporter in America for cars and tires. It is home to BMW, Volvo, Michelin, Bridgestone, Boeing, and more. Many of these businesses are located in the Second District, and I am honored to serve them in Congress. I appreciate Governor Nikki Haley, Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt, along with the State legislative leaders, Senate President Hugh Leatherman and Speaker Jay Lucas, and the State's Chamber of Commerce and economic development organizations, who work tirelessly to create job opportunities. 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, 10 days ago Congress expected the President to submit his plan to counter the rise of Islamic terrorism in the Middle East. American families deserve to know that the President has a strategy to defeat ISIL and keep us safe. The 2016 National Defense Authorization Act signed by the President was clear that the President must submit a plan to Congress by February 15 on how to defeat ISIL and reduce risks to American families. Sadly, the President has not presented a strategy. This is another example of the President's continued disregard for law and the Constitution. We should support our troops by giving them a clear mission and a clear strategy to protect American families. While I am disappointed that the President has failed to submit a strategy, we cannot be surprised, after he dismissed ISIL as the JV team. He claimed ISIL was contained just 1 day before the Paris slaughter, and he incorrectly assured Americans to be confident just as the mass murder was beginning in San Bernardino by ISIL terrorists. 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, yesterday the President announced a dangerous proposal, to close Guantanamo and bring terrorists to America. One of the proposed locations is near Charleston, South Carolina, creating a risk of attacks to adjacent schools, churches, neighborhoods, and ports. I have visited Guantanamo twice. This is the right location to house terrorists who are obsessed to kill American families. The 2016 National Defense Authorization Act, signed by the President, bars the closure of Guantanamo. Congress voted that remote Guantanamo is the safest location for mass murderers of American families, which discourages further attacks, and no one wants to be in Communist Cuba. I appreciate Speaker Paul Davis Ryan, Senators Tim Scott and Lindsey Graham, Governor Nikki Haley, Attorney General Alan Wilson, and the South Carolina House delegation for their efforts to prevent the closure of Guantanamo 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, today is our first opportunity to remember and honor the life and legacy of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, with a further tribute tonight by Congresswoman Barbara Comstock of Virginia. I am grateful for Justice Scalia's lifetime of service to our country and his dedication to protecting and defending the Constitution. In the nearly three decades he served on the Supreme Court, he was renowned for his brilliant opinion, sharp wit, and engaging debate with attorneys. His dedication to a strict interpretation of the Constitution never wavered, and he was beloved by his colleagues on the Court. He promoted the real constitutional intent, for judges to interpret the law, not legislating undermining democracy. Nominated by President Ronald Reagan in 1986 and confirmed unanimously by the Senate, Justice Scalia was the Court's voice for opinions that upheld conservative values, such as the District of Columbia v. Heller, defending the right to bear arms by the Second Amendment. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Maureen, their children, and grandchildren. 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 am grateful to recognize the accomplishments of Michael Lumpkin, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations/Low-Intensity Conflict, and congratulate him on his new position as director of the newly established Global Engagement Center at the Department of State. A decorated Navy SEAL, Secretary Lumpkin has quickly distinguished himself at the Pentagon as a senior adviser to the Secretary of Defense on all matters related to Special Operations Forces. He has also worked to develop special operations forces partnerships with foreign nations to sustain and improve global counter-terrorism operations. His engagement on this issue will ensure that Special Operations Forces remain an effective component of defense strategy. Secretary Lumpkin has also enhanced efforts to counter narcotics, illicit trafficking, and transnational organized crime. He has been instrumental in guiding counter-narcotics and counterinsurgency operations successfully in the Republic of Colombia. I know his expertise will be greatly missed at the Department of Defense. I look forward to seeing his accomplishments in his new role at the Department of State. 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. I thank Chairman Ed Royce for his leadership on freedom and liberty. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support the North Korea Sanctions Enforcement Act of 2016. Recently, we have seen overwhelming evidence that the monarchy in North Korea, led by an unstable dictator, has become increasingly hostile, threatening its neighbors, which are American allies. Sadly, just last week, it successfully tested a long-range rocket which is capable of reaching California. This recent missile test comes after years of ignoring nonproliferation agreements and conducting nuclear tests without facing any meaningful consequences. As America continues to fight the global war on terrorism, we should not allow an unpredictable rogue leader to continue unchecked. We must change course to a strategy of peace through strength to protect American families. In 2003, I was one of the few Members of Congress to visit Pyongyang, North Korea, along with Ranking Member Eliot Engel and Chairman Jeff Miller. I saw firsthand the struggle and oppression its citizens have endured under Communist totalitarian rule. Compared to the dynamic capital of South Korea, North Korea is the ultimate example of another socialist failure. The North Korea Sanctions Enforcement Act strengthens our Nation's ability to sanction the agents, government, and financial institutions that enable North Korea's dangerous activities. I am grateful to Chairman Ed Royce for introducing the North Korea Sanctions Enforcement Act, unanimously supported in the U.S. Senate with bipartisan support, which puts pressure on the regime by restricting them from selling weapons of mass destruction, importing and exporting conventional weapons, and engaging in further cyberattacks. It also directs the State Department to hold the administration accountable by creating a strategy to improve enforcement of existing sanctions. This legislation is an important first step to achieving peace through strength in the region. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Armed Services Committee to promote positive change and stability in Northeast Asia so that all Koreans can have a bright future.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last week I was grateful to chair the Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities hearing to receive outside views on biodefense for the Department of Defense and review the bipartisan report of the Blue Ribbon Study Panel on Biodefense. Chaired by former Senator Joe Lieberman and former Governor and Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge, the panel evaluated the status of prevention, deterrence, preparedness, detection, response, attribution, recovery, and mitigation of our Nation's biodefense. The report was clear. Our Nation faces a complex threat from both biological weapons and naturally occurring diseases. For example, the recent response to the Ebola outbreak demonstrates the importance of the Department of Defense's biodefense contributions to broader government and global efforts. I am grateful that the former Attorney General Ken Wainstein and Dr. Gerald Parker, both members of the panel, were there testifying before the subcommittee. I look forward to working with the Department of Defense to implement the findings and recommendations. 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 in the President's budget proposal, sadly, the President terminated funding to the Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility (MOX) at the Savannah River site. I am disappointed the President has not acknowledged how crucial MOX is to environmental cleanup and promoting nonproliferation. Support for MOX is bipartisan, as shown by former New Mexico Governor and Secretary of Energy Bill Richardson, along with former Senator Richard Lugar. Both are experts who advocate the completion of the facility. Today, MOX is 70 percent completed, and there is no viable alternative for eliminating plutonium. What is more, closing MOX would make South Carolina and Georgia a permanent repository for nuclear waste. MOX is also critical to upholding our nonproliferation agreement with the Russian Federation. I am grateful for the leadership of Governor Nikki Haley along with Attorney General Alan Wilson, who have already filed a lawsuit against the Department of Energy to enforce the law for South Carolina's agreement with the Federal Government. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Thank you, Navy SEAL Rob O'Neill, for eliminating Osama bin Laden.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last week the National Safety Council honored Carol Johnson, president and CEO of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, with their annual CEOs Who Get It award. This award recognizes leaders who have built a positive safety protocol through leadership and employee engagement, safety management solutions, risk reduction, and performance measurement. Ms. Johnson was recognized for her focus on safety SRNS, promoting a positive culture and continuously implementing safety measures at the site. She was commended by the Department of Energy for her role in recognizing and correcting safety errors. This achievement represents Carol's strong commitment to prioritize safety for every employee and every task with fulfilling jobs. I appreciate Carol's dedication to the employees of SRNS. Her focus on safety strengthens the community and makes the Central Savannah River area a world-class place to live and work. She has truly exemplified the goal of continuous improvement with zero harm. Congratulations to Carol on this well-deserved recognition and award. 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, yesterday, Kathryn Louise Spires Burkett of Edmund was properly eulogized during funeral services recognizing her legacy as one of South Carolina's most beloved civic leaders and homemakers. She and her late husband Horace raised their children to become some of the most respected professionals of the Midlands of South Carolina with her grandchildren now achieving the highest standards of community service and success. In January 1984, her passion for excellence was crucial in launching my successful campaign to serve in the State Senate when she was a co- host of a reception at the Farm Bureau in Cayce. The Burkett Family endorsement made the difference in a very challenging effort for victory in the October Republican primary replacing an incumbent. A fitting tribute was published on January 31st in The State newspaper of Columbia, South Carolina: Kathryn Louise Spires Burkett entered into eternal rest on January 30, 2016, following a brief illness. Kathryn, born April 11, 1929, was a daughter of Drayton and Sara Spires of Cayce, S.C. She attended BC High School where she was Homecoming Queen representing her lifelong sweetheart, Horace Olin Burkett, Jr. She attended Columbia College before she and Horace married in 1949. They were proud parents to Jimmy, Donny, Ronny, Timmy, and Andrea and pursued their dream of raising their children in the country. They moved to their beloved 17 acres in Edmund in 1962. Their home was a place of welcome to all, an endless source of adventure to their children, and the site of countless picnics, fish fries, and family gatherings. Kathryn's boundless energy was devoted to home, family, church, and community. She planted, nurtured, and harvested an acre vegetable garden every summer and proudly canned enough food to feed her family throughout the year. She was a marvelous cook, and her hand gently stirring a bowl of flour into mouth-watering biscuits was a wonder to behold. She served on the Governor's Beautification Board and volunteered with the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, Little League, Cub Scouts, and PTA. She and Horace also served in many capacities at Cayce United Methodist Church and the Edmund Community Club. Kathryn was devoted to the cause of mental health and was a catalyst in starting the first Lexington County Mental Health Center. She also had an avid interest in politics, volunteering for Strom Thurmond, Floyd Spence and Ben Carson, among many others, and as a poll watcher and precinct captain. Kathryn and Horace left a legacy to their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren of commitment, faithfulness, and an unfailing knowledge of the difference between right and wrong. We thank them from the bottom of our hearts and proudly carry all they taught us into the future. Kathryn was predeceased by her parents, Drayton and Sara; her husband, Horace; her brothers, Col and Fred Spires; her sister, Margie McNair; brother-in-law, David Burkett; and her granddaughter, Crystal Bradshaw. She is survived by her sister-in-law and spouse, Jeannette Burkett and Owen Livingston and her children and spouses/partners: Jimmy and Debbie Burkett, Donny and Jeannie Burkett, Ronny and Mary Burkett, Tim Burkett and Lance Wilhelm, and Andrea and Bobby Lange. She is survived by grandchildren and spouses/partners: Sarah and Heath Maner, Laura and Zach Moore, Tiffany Burkett, Brandi and Mike Dixon, Michael Burkett and Lisa Walner, Patrick Burkett, Meghan Burkett, Ian and Jenn Burkett, Jesse Bundrick and Jada Lange. She was blessed with great- granddaughters, Micaiah, Anna, and Alexis Burkett and Charley Dixon, and newborn great-grandson, Ezekiel Burkett. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 1, at Cayce United Methodist Church from 1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. and followed by services at 3:00 p.m. Private interment will follow in Southland Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at the home of Ronny and Mary Burkett, 87 Holly Ridge Lane, West Columbia, on Sunday afternoon from 2-5 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Crystal Bradshaw Foundation, 17 Abberton Court, Chapin, SC 29036. The family wishes to thank the special caregivers and residents of Oakleaf Village who were family to Kathryn in her later years.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, since 1888, the members of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem have promoted peace and health in the Middle East through their hospital in East Jerusalem, Gaza, and the West Bank. In 2015, the hospital and associated clinics treated over 125,000 patients--including 15,000 through mobile outreach. The Order has a strong foundation in Christian ideals, and a motto of ``Pro Fide, Pro Utilitate Hominum: For the Faith and in the Service of Humanity,'' which speak to the inspiring scope of their global contribution. The Order also features a diverse membership, who vow to ``serve our lords, the sick and the poor,'' and to fulfill this promise through volunteer service, fundraising, and monetary donations. I would like to congratulate Priory/Regional Chair, Julian V. Brandt III, CStJ, of Charleston, South Carolina, for his dedication for the significant work that the Order is accomplishing around the world.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the fantasy Iranian nuclear deal went into effect on January 16, giving the Iranian regime billions of dollars to support terrorism, expand its ballistic missile program, and threaten American families with attacks. Just 2 weeks ago Secretary of State John Kerry admitted that some of the funds would go to terrorist groups. What is worse, the Secretary believes there is no way to prevent the funds from supporting terrorist activity to kill American families. We must and should be clear that the United States has zero tolerance for terrorism or regimes that support terrorism. I am grateful to cosponsor the bipartisan Zero Tolerance for Terror Act. This critical legislation gives Congress the ability to act quickly and effectively when Iran violates the existing restrictions. We should take every effort to protect American families and our Persian Gulf allies from an irrational regime that promotes ``death to America, death to Israel.'' 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. Madam Speaker, the President's actions are inconsistent with his words of the State of the Union. His praise of job growth is undermined by ObamaCare, which the OMB has identified will destroy over 2 million jobs. His concerns for more gun control was a contradiction at the Capitol, which was properly awash with brave officers protecting everyone with guns. His distortion of voter photo identification laws clashes with the requirement of visitor photo identification to enter the White House. Security to prevent voter fraud and security to prevent assault on our President are basic for democracy. His professed opposition to ISIS terrorists is undermined by his pardoning prisoners from Guantanamo who will rejoin terrorists to kill American families using guns. His devotion to Syrian refugees was sadly undermined by his failure to enforce a red line, resulting in children fleeing violence drowning at sea. Finally, as I left the Capitol from the speech, I saw immediate inconsistency of a fleet of stretch limousines waiting for the President. As he attacked the oil and gas industry, he departed thanks to fuel developed by the oil and gas industry. The President should change course for limited government and expanded freedom. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and the President, by his actions, should never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.