Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

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. 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, as the world faces mass killings by ISIS, Daesh, of Russian, Lebanese, and French citizens, as Daesh has announced plans to target Washington and Rome and New York, we need to review how we got here and together change course. President George W. Bush on July 12, 2007, declared: ``To begin withdrawing before our commanders tell us we are ready would be dangerous for Iraq, for the region, and for the United States. It would mean surrendering the future of Iraq to al Qaeda. It would mean that we'd be risking mass killings on a horrific scale. It would mean we allow the terrorists to establish a safe haven in Iraq to replace the one they lost in Afghanistan.'' President Barack Obama on December 14, 2011, claimed: ``Everything that American troops have done in Iraq . . . all of it has led to this moment of success. We're leaving behind a sovereign, stable, and self- reliant Iraq.'' I agree with former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani that the President's failed policies created the development of Daesh, leading to the Syrian refugee crisis, resulting in children drowning at sea. The President should change course. 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 this morning that General John Keane testified before a joint hearing of the Foreign Affairs and Homeland Security Committees. General Keane provided an overview: ``ISIS is part of the multigenerational struggle against radical Islam that will likely dominate the first half of the 21st century similar to the fight against communism, which dominated the second half of the 20th century. Fourteen years after 9/11, the U.S. has no comprehensive strategy or a global alliance to defeat radical Islam.'' He explained further: ``What ISIS has accomplished in the last few weeks is unprecedented. While conducting a conventional war in Iraq and Syria, ISIS has staged terrorist attacks on a global scale against the people from countries who are fighting ISIS. The result is almost 900 casualties in 12 days, both killed and wounded, who are Russian, Lebanese, and mostly French in Paris.'' The President should change course and accept the positive counsel of General Keane to defeat ISIS. Actions should be taken to prevent further attacks, since in the last 48 hours ISIS has threatened to attack Washington and Rome. 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 join with my colleague from Illinois. This is certainly a bipartisan issue. On Friday, the world watched in horror as Paris endured multiple murderous attacks by Islamist radicals. My thoughts and prayers go out to the citizens of France, the oldest ally of the American people. I know it is certain that the French values of liberty, equality, and fraternity will never weaken in the face of terror. President Francois Hollande yesterday reminded the world that France is a country of freedom. In the last month of the global war on terrorism, Daesh, or ISIL, has murdered 244 on a Russian jetliner, 41 have been murdered in Beirut, Lebanon, and now 129 were murdered across Paris, with a direct threat to attack Washington and Rome. The President should change course to eliminate safe havens for Islamist radicals. Terrorists are trying to break our will with acts of cruel cowardice, but they are mistaken. We will fight together to protect our values and to protect American families. As co-chair of the French Caucus, and of French heritage, I especially appreciate our friendship with the citizens of France. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. France is the latest direct target in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, for too long, the partisan bias of the National Labor Relations Board--has caused instability in how the NLRB will interpret labor policy rules, harming employees and destroying jobs. The President's `Big Labor Bully' has constantly abused its authority by overregulating and restricting right-to-work states. Today, I have introduced the NLRB Reform Act to end the bias in the NLRB by adding a sixth member--establishing equal representation for each political party. It will benefit employers and employees and will help create jobs by reining in the unfair general counsel and enforcing timely decision-making. A non-partisan board would restore fairness to promote new jobs. Last week, I announced my introduction of this legislation at Nephron Pharmaceuticals in Lexington County with CEO Lou Kennedy, Representative Todd Atwater, President of the South Carolina Manufacturer's Alliance Louis Gossett, and former CEO of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Otis Rawl; and at CommuniGraphics in North Augusta, with owners Mark and Tracy Cook, and Representative Bill Hixon. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and may the President by his actions never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism. Our sympathy for America's First Ally, France, as the latest target in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to congratulate Mike Biediger on his retirement as CEO of Lexington Medical Center after over 25 years of dedicated service. During his tenure as CEO of Lexington Medical Center, he has led the hospital through an unprecedented period of growth. Lexington Medical Center has grown from 292 beds into a 414-bed modern medical complex with six community-based medical and urgent care centers and more than 600 physicians and 60 medical practices conveniently located throughout Lexington County. Under his leadership, the hospital also established an innovative, nationally certified heart program. On May 8, 2015, Clemson University awarded Mike Biediger an honorary doctorate for his achievements in improving the quality of health of the citizens of South Carolina. I am grateful for his admirable service to the community and his commitment to quality healthcare.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, our Nation is recognizing National Apprenticeship Week, which is dedicated to highlighting the critical role of employers in training and educating workers for fulfilling jobs. At their plant in Graniteville, South Carolina, MTU America, led by Director of Operations Jens Baumeister, has built a world-class apprenticeship program, recognized by the Department of Labor, by hiring and training high school students to work at MTU or share their skills with any similar manufacturing company. The Savannah River Site has a dynamic apprenticeship program, led by Carol Johnson, president of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, and Stuart MacVean, president of Savannah River Remediation, training students at Aiken Technical College, with President Susan Winsor, for the radiation protection technology program. I am grateful for Apprenticeship Carolina, led by Director Brad Neese, a program that pairs students in our technical college systems with employers to train the students for well-paying jobs. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and the President by his actions must never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. South Carolina extends its sympathy to the family and many friends of our beloved former colleague and neighbor, Howard Coble, who passed away last night. We appreciate Uncle Howard.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, congratulations to America's new Speaker of the House, Paul Davis Ryan. I have been grateful to serve with the Speaker for a number of years, and I know he is a proven conservative. I know his positive commitment to the people of the First District of Wisconsin and every corner of our Nation, which he visited while campaigning in 2012. I look forward to Speaker Ryan's conservative leadership, cited in the National Journal Daily as ``chief Democratic villain in Washington.'' He was also condemned as a ``budget-slashing fiend.'' Despite these attacks, his service will advance meaningful, conservative change for the American people, limiting government, and expanding freedom. Congress has a positive leader, as we work to promote a strong national defense of peace through strength. The Economist identified the Speaker as a dogmatic conservative with faith in supply-side reform for growth-boosting. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and the President, by his actions, must never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our sympathy and prayers to the people of Russia upon the deaths of 224 persons onboard the Metrojet charter flight in Egypt.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month--a month to especially recognize and celebrate breast cancer patients, survivors, and advocates. While breast cancer affects individuals and families throughout the year, I especially appreciate the awareness and advocacy efforts that occur this week, especially the Walk for Life and Women's Night Out. The Walk for Life/Race for Life at Palmetto Health, though rescheduled due to the tragic flooding, is celebrating twenty-five years of raising funds and awareness for survivors and treatments in the Midlands. In the past twenty-five years, the Walk for Life, led by Chair Janet Snider, has gone from 200 participants in the first year to over 11,000 participants last year, raising over $800,000. Women's Night Out at Lexington Medical Center, led by President Mike Biediger, is an inspiring evening at Burkett, Burkett, and Burkett CPAs, where the hospital honors breast cancer patients, survivors, and their families. I know firsthand of the success at Lexington Medical Center, where my son Addison in high school was successfully treated for thyroid cancer determined by Dr. H.W. Bledsoe, Jr., and now himself is an orthopedic surgeon. 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, October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a month to especially recognize and celebrate breast cancer patients, survivors, and advocates. While breast cancer affects individuals and families throughout the year, I especially appreciate the awareness and advocacy efforts that occur this week, especially the Walk for Life and Women's Night Out. The Walk for Life/Race for Life at Palmetto Health, though rescheduled due to tragic flooding, is celebrating 25 years of raising funds and awareness for survivors and treatment in the Midlands. In the past 25 years, the Walk for Life, led by Chair Janet Snider, has gone from 200 participants in the first year to over 11,000 participants last year, raising over $800,000. Women's Night Out at Lexington Medical Center, led by President Mike Biediger, is an inspiring evening at Burkett, Burkett & Burkett CPAs where the hospital honors breast cancer patients, survivors, and their families. I know firsthand of the success at Lexington Medical Center where my son, Addison, in high school, was successfully treated for thyroid cancer and now himself is an orthopedic surgeon. 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, the National Defense Authorization Act, NDAA, is bipartisan legislation that our Nation has depended upon for decades to support our servicemembers and military families. In its entire history, the NDAA has been vetoed only four times. By vetoing it last week, the President has made history and, as The Washington Post has identified, ``not in a good way.'' I am grateful for the leadership of the House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mac Thornberry and Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain as Congress works to fulfill its highest constitutional duty to provide for our common defense to protect American families from attacks with worldwide conflicts at record levels. As a grateful father of four sons currently serving in the military and as a 31-year Army veteran myself, I know firsthand the importance of the NDAA to promote peace through strength. The NDAA is and always has been bipartisan legislation because the safety of American families is more important than partisan politics. I encourage all Members of Congress to unite on voting to override the President's veto. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and the President by his actions must never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. I thank Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler for her leadership for military families, and I thank her for referencing my four sons. Of course, I want to give all credit to my wife, Roxanne. She did a great job raising four sons who truly know how important it is to serve our country. Sadly, President Obama has vetoed this year's National Defense Authorization Act, even though it allocates the same amount of funding as the Department of Defense request that he made himself. The President does not support the bipartisan NDAA because it utilizes wartime funds. Despite utilizing these funds himself, the President accepted this fabrication to veto the NDAA and put servicemembers, military families, and veterans at risk. On October 3, The Washington Post editorialized: ``Refusing to sign this bill would make history, but not in a good way. Mr. Obama should let it become law.'' I believe the veto underscores the President's legacy of weakness. This is leading to instability. It is leading to aggression, mass murders, and it is leading to citizens fleeing the violence causing children to drown at sea. This year's NDAA provides for servicemembers and equips our troops to fight serious threats to American families, like the murderous Islamic State. It supports our allies, like Ukraine and Israel, to defend themselves from aggression. The NDAA establishes meaningful reforms to the Department of Defense acquisition process and creates commonsense improvements to the military retirement system. It fully staffs and resources Cyber Command, which I appreciate as chairman of the Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, to protect American families. American families deserve peace through strength. The National Defense Authorization Act gives our military critical resources to defend us as we constantly face new threats. It is sad for the President to weaken these reforms and funds and put American families at risk. Fellow Members, I strongly urge you to override the President's veto. As the appreciative son of a World War II Flying Tigers veteran, as a 31-year veteran of the Army myself, and as the grateful father of four sons serving in the military, I know firsthand that your bipartisan vote will help protect and better serve our troops, military families, veterans, and all American families by promoting and ensuring peace through strength.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last Sunday the President's Iranian nuclear deal, a tragic mistake, went into effect. Instead of making the world safer, as promised, American families have become less safe. As reported in The Post and Courier of Charleston, since the Iran deal was reached, the Iranian regime tested a ballistic missile that could reach Israel, in direct violation of U.N. resolutions. After the test of the missile, the Iranian defense minister said: ``We don't ask permission from anyone.'' This does not come as a surprise. We know the Iranian regime cannot be trusted. Sadly, it is shocking that the President has dismissed the Iranian regime's flagrant disregard of international rules and still insists that Iran will uphold their part of the deal. The evidence is overwhelming that the Iranian regime will break the agreement, with billions of dollars for new attacks. The President's legacy is American families at risk of terrorist attacks by jihadists and a rogue regime oppressing the people of Iran. In conclusion, God bless our troops. The President, by his actions, must never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Tomorrow is the gruesome 32nd anniversary of the murder of 241 Americans at the marine barracks in Beirut by Iran. Our sympathy for their families.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, despite the destruction of the thousand-year rain event flooding, it was a testament to the people of South Carolina working together. Led by Governor Nikki Haley and Adjutant General Bob Livingston, our State is a model for disaster response. I am grateful for our State Emergency Management Division, led by Director Kim Stenson, for over 1,500 successful rescue missions and to all of our first responders for the countless rescues. Credit is due to Director Christy Hall and the South Carolina Department of Transportation for their tireless work. During the flooding, over 500 roads and bridges were closed. I know firsthand, as the road I live on was washed out, the location of our family home for the last six generations, which was named by my grandmother. Donations and volunteers have come from across the Nation. The Salvation Army, led by Major Roger Coulson, has provided over 50,000 meals to displaced persons in the flooding. The Red Cross, inspired by national president Gale McGovern's visit, has operated 26 shelters. I appreciate the positive spirit of the people of South Carolina spontaneously coming together as family and neighbors before turning to government. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and the President by his actions must never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Thank you, Coach Steve Spurrier, for developing winning Gamecocks.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following remarks regarding my absence from votes which occurred on October 9, 2015. I departed from Washington due to the flood crisis in the district to accompany Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson and Red Cross National President Gail McGovern. 1) H.R. 702--To Adapt to Changing Crude Oil Market Conditions--YES; Amash Amendment 1--NO; Messer Amendment 5--YES; Messer Amendment 6-- YES; Motion to recommit H.R. 702--NO.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the past 2 weeks in South Carolina have been inspiring as I learned and saw spontaneous acts of thoughtfulness and compassion for flood victims. The thousand-year rain event was a disastrous collision of a weather front from the west meeting a moisture-laden trough from the east caused by Hurricane Joaquin bypassing the State, dumping 11 trillion gallons of water, inundating communities with rainfalls up to 26 inches overnight. The volume was equal to filling the Rose Bowl over 130,000 times. Governor Nikki Haley and National Guard Adjutant General Bob Livingston, backed up by the State Guard, have continued to lead dedicated personnel for safety and recovery. Colonel Kevin Shwedo will be the recovery coordinator. Individual acts of heroism arise daily, such as the courage of Frank Roddey, Ryan Truluck, Drew Bozard, and Zack Hudson, who were cited by The State for rescuing, by boat, neighbors from their submerged Lake Katherine homes. Every church and school has energized volunteers and relief efforts for families. The Salvation Army thanked Mary and J.T. Gandolfo with Rich O'Dell for raising over $141,000 in a WLTX telethon, with Columbia Rotary Club members receiving the calls. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson deserves praise for his dedicated FEMA personnel and SBA representatives implementing Federal assistance. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and the President by his actions should never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Thursday, October 15th, South Carolinians paused from recovery efforts of record flooding to recognize the life of Martha Carolyn Edens with a Service of Death and Resurrection at Trenholm Road United Methodist Church in Columbia. The Reverend Doctor Bill Bouknight properly began the sermon recognizing her as a Caring Conservative. Martha Edens was a devoted pioneer in establishing the modem Republican Party. She was an active volunteer in August 1961 electing Richland Representative Charlie Boineau to the House of Representatives as the first Republican elected to the General Assembly in the Twentieth Century. He was joined in 1962 by State Representative Floyd Spence of Lexington who was the first elected official to switch parties. Through her family's dedication she lived a revolution where Republicans by 2010 held elected all statewide state and federal offices. Additionally super majorities were achieved in the State House and Senate with eight of nine federal offices. From isolated pockets of Republican transplants from the Northeast and Midwest in 1961, the party is now dominant in almost every corner of the state. She helped establish a broad-based party in 2010 electing Nikki Haley as the state's first female Governor in 340 years and as America's second Indian-American Governor. With Tim Scott, being the second African-American elected to Congress in the twentieth Century and in 2014 he achieved being the first popularly elected African-American ever from the South to the U.S. Senate. Additionally with Alan Wilson, South Carolina elected American's youngest State Attorney General. Martha Edens' vision and dedication to the principles of limited government and expanded freedom have been adopted by the people of South Carolina. On October 11th, a thoughtful obituary was published in The State of Columbia, South Carolina. Columbia Memorial service for Martha Carolyn Edens, 87, will be held at 4:00 p.m. Thursday, October 15, 2015, at Trenholm Road United Methodist Church. Following the service, the family will receive friends in the church dining hall. Burial will be private in Greenlawn Memorial Park. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Ms. Edens died Friday, October 9, 2015. Born in Richland County, she was the daughter of the late James Drake Edens Sr. and May Florence Youmans Edens. She graduated from Dreher High School, attended Brenau University in Gainesville, Ga. and graduated from the University of South Carolina. Martha lived a well-spent life of love, dedication and generosity. In addition to being a loving, caring mother to her two children, Martha accomplished more in her life than most people even dream of. She was active in politics, her college fraternity, Zeta Tau Alpha, her church, Trenholm Road United Methodist and her community. Among the highlights of Martha's many accomplishments was being awarded the Order of the Palmetto in 1995 by Governor Carroll A. Campbell. On the local level, she served the Richland County Republican Party as Party Chairman, Finance Chairman and Precinct Committeeman. Martha served as Vice Chairman of the First Tuesday Republican Club. She was a member of the Richland County Ivory Club, the Richland County Republican Women's Club and was a governor's mansion docent. A true community leader, Martha was also an active member of Trenholm Road United Methodist Church, having served on numerous boards and committees and was an Advisory Board member of Lutheran Theological Seminary. Martha was also an active board member of the Palmetto Society of the United Way and the Salvation Army of Columbia and she was former president and member of the State Board of Directors of South Carolina Easter Seal Society. Additionally, Martha was a member of the South Carolina Museum Commission and the SC Law Institute Council. She was a former member of the Advisory Board of Republic National Bank and the Citizens Committee for the Construction of the Richland County Judicial Center. She served as treasurer of the South Carolina Republican Party. A longtime member of the Capitol 100 Foundation, Martha served our state as National Committeewoman on the Republican National Committee, where she became known as one of the most outstanding national committeewomen in the nation. As National Committeewoman, she served on the Rules Committee of the RNC, was elected Vice Chairman of the Southern Region and served on the Chairman's Executive Committee, having served four years in each of those positions. In 1992, Martha served, along with Honorary Chairman Carroll A. Campbell, as Chairman of the Southern Republican Conference. Elected to serve as one of eight members of the Site Selection Committee for the 1996 Republican National Convention, Martha also served on the Committee on Arrangements for the San Diego convention. On the state level, Martha had the honor of serving on the South Carolina Election Commission. She served as Vice President on the Board of Trustees of Brenau University for thirty years, received the Outstanding Alumnae Award for Community Service and received the prestigious Mary Mildred Sullivan Award given to distinguished alumnae. Martha was also a member of the Board of Visitors for Columbia College, the Advisory Board for the Medical University of South Carolina and served Richland County School District Two as a Board of Trustees member, Secretary, Vice President and Chairman. Additionally, Martha held office on the Board of Trustees of Richland Memorial Hospital and worked as a volunteer with the Help-Line Crisis Intervention Program and Baptist Medical Center Hospice. Dearest to her heart, though, was her lifelong involvement with Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity. She served as Province President for the states of North and South Carolina and Georgia, National Vice President, National President, National Extension Director, Chairman, International Office Building Committee, President of Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation and served on the Foundation Board as a director. Her fraternity honors were as an Honor Ring Recipient, Vivian Ulmer Smith Rushing Award, Alumnae Certificate of Merit, Louise Kettler Helper Award and Outstanding Alumnae Award. Martha Carolyn Edens had many dear friends who valued her dry wit, her sharp humor and her unfailing sense of style. Her honesty, ethics and fairness could always be counted on. She gave generously in donating her time and talents. Surviving are her daughter, Dinah Helms Cook (Phil); daughter-in-law, Pamela Blaylock Helms; grandchildren, Blake Edens Helms, James Cook, Jennifer Cook and Allison Cook. Also surviving are nieces and nephews and many dear friends. Martha was predeceased by her former husband, William Edgar Helms Jr.; her son, William Edgar Helms III; and brothers, James Drake Edens Jr. and William Youmans Edens Sr.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, fellow Members of Congress, the people of South Carolina have faced an unprecedented, catastrophic weather event, also known as a 1,000-year rain, exceeding 20 inches virtually overnight, causing flooding and widespread damage. We are grateful for your thoughts and prayers. The flooding and rain destroyed homes and roads, collapsed bridges, and broke dams across the State; 400 roads and bridges are still closed. Tragically, to date, the flooding has claimed the lives of nearly 20 citizens across the Carolinas. We ask for your thoughts and prayers for their families. We are grateful for the strength of the people of South Carolina, led by Governor Nikki Haley and Adjutant General Bob Livingston. We are inspired by people like Aaron and Amy Dupree, with their four small children, who were rescued by boat from their home in Columbia's Lake Katherine community by their neighbor, Brian Boyer. You will hear stories of incredible acts of volunteerism, like Kassy Alia, the widow of Forest Acres Police Officer Greg Alia who was murdered last week, leaving her and their 5-month-old son, Sal. Despite her grief, she joined others in distributing food to those in need. Wherever you go, you will find heroes like these and hear about the service of the first responders, emergency personnel, officials, and State employees who have worked tirelessly to aid our community. We appreciate that Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson will lead a fact-finding delegation with members of our delegation to our State tomorrow. I yield to the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Clyburn). If he is not available, I just want to thank him for his service. We look forward to being on the delegation with him tomorrow. God bless South Carolina, and I ask my colleagues to stand and join me in a moment of silence.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following remarks regarding my absence from votes which occurred on October 6, 2015. I was delayed in arriving in Washington due to the current flooding crisis threatening families. 1) H.R. 1553--Small Bank Exam Cycle Reform Act--AYE 2) H.R. 1839--Reforming Access for Investments in Startup Enterprises--AYE

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, tragically Forest Acres, South Carolina, Police Officer Gregory Thomas Alia was killed Wednesday, September 30th at Richland Fashion Mall in the line of duty protecting the people of his community. There was an outpouring of love and appreciation for his services. The following obituary is from The State on October 2nd. Columbia--A Mass of Christian burial for Officer Gregory Thomas Alia, 32, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 3, 2015, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Final Commendation and Farewell Prayers will be in St. Peter's Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8.00 p.m. Friday, October 2, 2015, at Dunbar Funeral home, Devine Street Chapel. Officer Alia died in the line of duty Wednesday, September 30, 2015. Born in Columbia, he was the son of Dr. Richard Thomas Alia and Mary Alexis Wade Alia. He was a graduate of Richland Northeast High School and the University of South Carolina with degrees in Criminal Justice and Media Arts. He was a founding father of Phi Sigma Kappa Gamma Triton Chapter. Officer Alia was with the Forest Acres Police Department for seven years. He was an Eagle Scout and a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church. Surviving are his wife, Kassandra Kugler ``Kassy'' Alia; son Salvatore David Alia; and his parents; sisters, Christine A. Corbly (Brett) of Indian Land, Rebecca Mesnil (Pierre) of Columbia; a niece, Madeleine; father-in-law and mother-in- law, David and Carol Ann Kugler; sisters-in-laws, Kristina Persinger (Brian), Knatalia Kugler, Kara Kugler; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Greg Alia Memorial Fund at www.gofundme.com/rw5b9wbc. Please sign the online guestbook at www.dunbarfunerals.com. The State further published a thoughtful front page article by Avery G. Wilkes on October 4th reflecting the love and affection for the Alia family as headlined Officer was `strong and brave, selfless'. Hundreds gathered Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church and Elmwood Cemetery to mourn the death and celebrate the life of Forest Acres police officer Greg Alia. Alia, 32, a seven-year veteran of the Forest Acres Police Department, was shot and killed Wednesday morning by a suspect in Richland Mall. His funeral Mass and burial services were crowded with police officers and law enforcement officials, including Forest Acres Police Chief Gene Sealy, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott and S.C. Attorney General Alan Wilson. Some mourners who packed into the downtown Columbia church, including police from departments across South Carolina, wore blue ribbons in support of police. Alia on Saturday was recalled as a gentle patient protector who sought to serve others before himself. Christine Corbly, one of Alia's sisters who spoke at the funeral Mass, said Alia's overwhelming love and happiness were evident in the way he treated his family, friends and those he protected as a police officer. ``This is not the first time my brother rushed into danger, and if things had been different it wouldn't have been the last,'' Corbly said. ``This is not what made my brother a hero. What made my brother a hero was that every day he got up, put on his uniform, loved his family, loved his son, loved his wife, was full of commitment and happiness and contentment that he poured into everything he did. ``He gave it his all.'' Corbly, who is older than Alia, said she used to read to him stories about heroes, warriors and adventure when they were kids. She said Alia wasn't usually drawn to the main character, preferring the sidekicks instead for their loyalty, selflessness and sacrifice. ``It seems that is the man he tried to become--strong and brave, selfless,'' Corbly said. ``Never the star, never the center, but rather the one who sacrificed himself so the hero could escape and save the day.'' Monsignor Richard Harris, who delivered the homily at the funeral Mass, said Alia always looked for the good in others and that even when there wasn't much good to find, he was still patient and understanding. ``We will miss Gregory Alia--his voice, a touch, a smile, and a presence that will be longed for in the weeks, months and years to come,'' Harris said. ``And there is the wish to say just one more, `I love you.' '' Corbly thanked those in attendance for the outpouring of support the family has received over the past few days, most of all the memories of her brother that friends shared with them. A GoFundMe set up by Alia's Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity brothers at the University of South Carolina had raised nearly 3500 donations, amounting to nearly $175,000, as of Saturday afternoon. That support also was visible on the way to Alia's burial service, said Chris Scott, who grew up with Alia in Forest Acres and went to USC and then California with him before he came back to South Carolina to become a police officer. Officers and others lined the streets throughout Columbia, the officers saluting the funeral procession as it drove from St. Joseph's on Devine Street to the cemetery on Elmwood Avenue. ``It blew me away,'' Scott said. ``There were officers at every corner. They saluted every time. ``Outside of every shop on the way, there were people standing there.'' Scott said the driver of the hearse he rode said that in the more than 1,800 funerals he had worked, he had never seen anything like that. ``To see this tidal wave of support and people that Greg knew and touched--he was the most magnetic, charming guy.'' Scott said. ``I think his greatest super-power was he could not just make friends, but he could bring people together and form groups of friends and then bring them together.'' ``I know hundreds of people here, all through Greg, and every single one of them has an amazing incredible story.'' A Personal Appreciation of Greg The Wilson family has a personal appreciation of Greg as in 1999, I joined my third son Julian Wilson accompanying Greg on a trek to the Philmont Scout Ranch at Cimmaron, New Mexico, with Greg's Scout leaders being John Graham, Jim Flynn, Vincent VanBrunt, and Dave Cartledge, Scoutmaster of Troop 100 at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Columbia, South Carolina. Our oldest son Alan Wilson was grateful for Greg's volunteering to put up campaign signs in Alan's successful campaign for State Attorney General. And a dear family friend Adam Piper was fortunate to be a Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity brother at the University of South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the past few days have been an extraordinary catastrophe, correctly identified by Governor Nikki Haley of South Carolina as a ``thousand year rain'' causing flooding and damage across South Carolina. Fortunately, Hurricane Joaquin bypassed the state after causing destruction in the Bahamas but, it created a weather anomaly of record rainfall of over 20 inches and flooding. I am grateful to the National Weather Service and senior forecaster John Quagliariello, for monitoring the situation and providing early warnings for our citizens. Six generations of my family have lived on Wilton Road in Springdale, which was washed away during the storm for the first time ever since construction in 1890. I am grateful that our home was spared major damage, though thousands were not so fortunate. Our state officials were true leaders and handled the catastrophe impressively. When visiting the State Emergency Response Center in Pine Ridge, I thanked Governor Nikki Haley, Adjutant General Bob Livingston, and Attorney General Alan Wilson for leading the recovery, as well as South Carolina Emergency Management Division Kim Stinson. I am further grateful for the National Guard's role in aiding the relief efforts-- three of my sons, Alan, Julian, and Hunter, were activated for National Guard disaster service. I visited the world-class Lexington County Emergency Response Center, led by Director Bo Davenport, with Sheriff Jay Koon and County Administrator Joe Mergo where I thanked the dedicated personnel who saved many lives. In between stops, I appreciated thanking Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin for his leadership and I thanked Homeland Secretary Jeh Johnson for coming to tour the impacted areas this Friday with Congressman Jim Clyburn and myself. Mayor Mike Miller of Wagener assured me his Aiken County community was secure. Lexington Mayor Steve MacDougall and Town of Lexington Police Chief Terrence Green gave me a first-hand tour of multiple pond dam breaks, including the Mill Pond blocking U.S. Highway 1 of Main Street in Lexington. I visited the Lake Katherine neighborhood with State Representative Kirkman Finlay of Columbia, where I met homeowners and volunteers already planning the reconstruction of their homes. Sheriff Leon Lott had experienced deputies at critical roadways. At the Red Cross shelter at A.C. Flora High School, I thanked the A.C. Flora Key Club and other volunteers who distributed bottled water, food, diapers, and clothes to those who had lost everything. I am grateful to Richland School District One Board Member Beatrice King and State Senator Joel Lourie for coordinating such a positive outpouring of donations from the community. Visiting the Richland County Emergency Center, led by Columbia Deputy Fire Chief Tisdale, there were dedicated personnel thoughtfully handling calls of distress. At the Seven Oaks Recreation Center shelter, sponsored by the Irmo- Chapin Recreation Commission, I thanked the organizers: Director Elizabeth Taylor and Park Director John Cantey. I saw first-hand how those who had to flee their homes found people who cared and supported them. A lesson learned is that in the watersheds of multiple downstream dams, as exist in Richland and Lexington counties, there should be a coordination of lowering water levels to anticipate extraordinary rainfall to reduce the potential for sequential dam failures resulting in catastrophic loss of life and property damages. Late yesterday, I returned to my Congressional office in West Columbia, where I found that a leak in the roof had caused the ceiling and light fixture above my desk to collapse. Though the destruction of the 1000-year event was catastrophic, it was a testament to the people of South Carolina working together for the common good.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, September 30, 2015, Officer Greg Alia was killed in the line of duty. A graduate of Richland Northeast High School and the University of South Carolina, Police Chief Gene Shealy described Officer Alia as ``an outstanding man and an outstanding police officer.'' As a seven year veteran of Forest Acres Police Department, Greg was a role model for new officers who showed courage and dedication in protecting the people of Forest Acres, South Carolina. He lived up to the highest standards of being an Eagle Scout of Troop 100 of St. Joseph Catholic Church of Columbia. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Kassy, and their five month old son, Sal, his parents, Dr. Richard and Alexis Alia of Forest Acres, and his fellow officers at Forest Acres Police Department. I am grateful for the outpouring of love and support for Forest Acres, for our community, and for our citizens during this tragic time. God bless the memory and service of Greg Alia.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. I thank the chairman. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to support the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 and also thank Chairman Mac Thornberry for his leadership and hard work in bringing this important bill and conference report to the floor with bipartisan support. I appreciate serving as the chairman of the Emerging Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee to oversee some of the most important aspects of the Department of Defense. The subcommittee's portion of the bill represents a comprehensive and bipartisan product. For this reason, it is sad that some of our Democratic colleagues may vote against this bill and, worse, that the President is threatening a veto. Mr. Speaker, a veto or a vote against this bipartisan bill is a vote against security for American families and a vote against every member of the armed services and its military families. It would be a vote against authorizations that would strengthen our cyber defense capabilities. It would be a vote against counterterrorism programs and resources for our special operations forces currently fighting overseas. It would be a vote against reform efforts and programs that would ensure America maintains superiority in all areas of science and technology. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues across the aisle to support this bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act and for the President to sign this important piece of legislation that will soon cross his desk. A vote or veto against this measure is, simply put, a vote endangering American families and a vote against the American-dedicated servicemembers who mean so much to our country.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this week the House Armed Services Committee, led by Chairman Mac Thornberry, marks Cyber Week, a week that highlights the importance of cyber to our families and to our military. This week of hearings, with witnesses from private corporations and the Department of Defense, is a fitting start as we also recognize Cyber Security Awareness Month during October. Recent cyber attacks, like the devastating attack on the Office of Personnel Management, have made it clear that cyber is the new domain of attacks on American families. Personal data, such as Social Security numbers, financial information, and security clearance documents, were stolen, putting the personal and financial security of our citizens at risk. The attack underscores the increased reports of cyber attacks against our military Web sites, government data, and businesses. As chairman of the Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, with dedicated staff members like Pete Villano, Kevin Gates, and Nevada Schadler, I look forward to Cyber Week's focus 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.