Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to recognize R2P Innovations for being ranked number five on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America. Those on this annual list are ranked according to their percentage revenue growth over three years from 2021 to 2024, a further testament to R2P Innovations for their unique and much-desired product. The Ladson, South Carolina-based company is the `leading developer and manufacturer of the world's most advanced bulletproof doors, specifically designed to blend seamlessly into office and school settings.' Notably, R2P Innovations is currently manufacturing and installing secure door systems in the U.S. Capitol Building historic Rotunda. The beautifully crafted doors of simulated mahogany add to an already magnificent center of tribute to American democracy. Led by R2P Innovations Founder and CEO, Tony Deering, and joined by South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, just last week I received an informative tour of the company where I was able to witness its state-of-the-art technology. I appreciate Tony Deering and the R2P Innovations team for their dedicated work in protecting lives and offer the company my best wishes for success in their future endeavors.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for the South Carolina Irmo Little League All-Stars baseball team, as they rallied to defeat defending champions, Lake Mary, in a game played in Warner Robins, Georgia. This outstanding team is now heading to Williamsport, Pennsylvania, to compete in the Little League World Series (LLWS). The LLWS is an annual event featuring 20 teams, 10 from the United States and 10 from the rest of the world. Irmo is just the fourth team from South Carolina to advance to the LLWS, and the first since a Taylors team in 2015. The Irmo All-Stars team includes players, Ethan Bennett, Andrew Bogan, Brayden Gerard, Jacob Gibson, Joe Giulietti, Sutton Gravelle, Jake McQuilkin, Brody Miller, Palmer Steele, Ryder Tillitz, Preston Ware, and Brady Westbrooks. Alongside the players is the talented team manager, Dave Bogan, and equally talented coaches Mike Beckworth and Pat Gravelle. Having a winning record of 11-1 during the state and regional tournaments, the Irmo team is now preparing to face the New England region champion on August 14, 2025. On behalf of all South Carolinians, congratulations to the Irmo All- Stars on this impressive achievement and we wish them the best of luck as they represent Team South Carolina in the World Series. This victory of the Irmo All-Stars Team is well-deserved, for the team, coaches, families, and community for all their hard work and support, making their dream come true.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, July 18, 2025, Columbia, South Carolina, was blessed as Leah Grace Denny Blackwell and Matthew Blackwell joyfully welcomed their handsome son, Graham Thomas Blackwell, into the world, a very special gift just 2 days ahead of Leah Grace's own birthday. Born at Prisma Health Baptist Hospital at 2:03 a.m., weighing 6 pounds, 9 ounces, and measuring 19 inches long, Graham has entered a loving, prominent, and nurturing home. I am grateful for Leah Grace, who is a dedicated long-term staff member in the Washington office, serving as senior policy adviser, while Matt is a former staff member who is now at Duke Energy. Graham is blessed to be born into a home that will guide him through a bright and fulfilling future encouraged by his wonderful grandparents, Tony and Beverly Denny and Bart and Paula Blackwell, who are all appreciated as devoted statewide community leaders. On behalf of my wife, Roxanne, and our entire family and staff, I extend the warmest congratulations to the happy Blackwell family. May the years ahead be filled with joy, love, and blessings. God bless Graham Thomas Blackwell.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, America will always cherish the vision of Ed Feulner for limited government, expanded freedoms, and Peace Through Strength. Personally, on January 4, 2019, he sent me a note acknowledging his achievements, ``Dear Joe, I'm honored. You're a real hero to all of us! Onward! Ed.'' The following is from The Heritage Foundation on the loss of its Founder, Ed Feulner: ``Washington--The Heritage Foundation released the following statement today from Heritage President Dr. Kevin Roberts and Board of Trustees Chairman Barb Van Andel-Gaby, lauding the legacy and mourning the loss of Heritage Founder Edwin J. Feulner: ``It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Edwin J. Feulner, founder, trustee, and the longest-serving president of The Heritage Foundation. ``Ed Feulner was more than a leader--he was a visionary, a builder, and a patriot of the highest order. His unwavering love of country and his determination to safeguard the principles that made America the freest, most prosperous nation in human history shaped every fiber of the conservative movement--and still do. ``Ed founded The Heritage Foundation in 1973, planting a flag for Truth in a town too often seduced by power. What started as a small outpost for conservative ideas became-- under Ed's tireless leadership--the intellectual arsenal for the Reagan Revolution and the modern conservative movement. In the four decades that followed, Ed's foresight, discipline, and moral clarity made Heritage a battleship, unshaken by political winds and focused solely on fighting for the American people. ``After leading Heritage for 37 years as president, Ed continued to serve on our Board of Trustees, offering encouragement and sage advice in equal measure. Ed was an important mentor to us, respectively, and to all of those who had the honor of knowing him. In addition to his work at Heritage, he continued his active participation in many other conservative organizations. ``Whether he was bringing together the various corners of the conservative movement at meetings of the Philadelphia Society, or launching what is now the Heritage Strategy Forum, Ed championed a bold, ``big-tent conservatism.'' He believed in addition, not subtraction. Unity, not uniformity. One of his favorite mantras was `You win through multiplication and addition, not through division and subtraction.' His legacy is not just the institution he built, but the movement he helped grow--a movement rooted in faith, family, freedom, and the founding. ``His `Feulnerisms' still resonate in the halls of Heritage--where they will always be remembered. `People are policy,' for instance--the heartbeat of his mission--to equip, encourage, and elevate a new generation of conservative leaders, not just in Washington, but across this great country. And we still remember his adjuration to never be complacent or discouraged: `In Washington, there are no permanent victories and no permanent defeats.' ``Ed himself seemed immune to discouragement. Every day was, for him, a new opportunity to strike a blow for freedom, to further the promise of America and make it a reality for all. His was a life of joyful defiance in the face of tyranny and bureaucratic decay--a life defined by courage, conviction, and the word he signed off with every single day: Onward! ``To his beloved wife, Linda, their children, and grandchildren--we extend our deepest prayers and condolences. And to Ed--we say thank you. Thank you for showing us what one faithful, fearless man can do when he refuses to cede ground in the fight for self-governance. ``The Heritage Foundation will honor Ed's life the best way we know how: by carrying his mission forward with courage, integrity, and determination. We will never forget his leadership, his example, or his favorite charge: ``Onward. Always.'' ''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, supporters of freedom universally appreciate the success of the late Ed Feulner. The Unleash Prosperity Hotline of Stephen Moore gives a heartfelt tribute of RIP Ed Feulner: ``Ed Feulner was a free-market conservative and fierce anti-communist back in the 1970s, long before it was cool. He invented the modern-day think tank, taking it from the days of stodgy 200-page tomes that lay gathering dust on bookshelves and read by few, to providing just-in-time, influential, hard-hitting studies delivered into the hands of the policymakers that mattered. ``Among his many contributions to advancing freedom and free enterprise was to train hundreds of today's leading voices in the conservative movement--including some of the thinkers and activists at Unleash Prosperity. Heritage taught young talent how to be relevant and impactful--something our billion-dollar universities don't do. ``He believed that ``people are policy'' and that's a lesson that this so-far successful Trump administration has taken to heart. His legacy lives on.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, with the passing of Ed Feulner, he has been appropriately eulogized for his steadfast promotion of modern conservatism. As a Reaganaut serving in the Department of Energy, 1981 to 1982, with Secretary Jim Edwards, I know firsthand ``The Mandate'' was instrumental in promoting free markets. The following is from the National Review on July 20th editorialized: ``In 1973 Ed Feulner and his friend Paul Weyrich co-founded the Heritage Foundation, the think tank that nurtured and spread many of the policies that informed the Reagan Administration. Its ``Mandate for Leadership'' policy compendium in 1980 became a guide for the Reaganauts out to change Washington. ``Under Feulner, the think tank also became known for short, fast policy summaries delivered to Members of Congress and staff in anticipation of votes. Turnover on Capitol Hill is rapid, and Heritage's missives were influential guides to policies developed on the right over many years. ``Like many Reagan-era conservatives, Feulner believed in a coalition built on the three-legged stool of free markets and a smaller government, strong national defense, and traditional views on social policy. He welcomed all factions of what was once called the ``conservative movement,'' from libertarians to Russell Kirk traditionalists to neocons. ``For many years, the Journal worked with Heritage on the annual Index of Economic Freedom. The volume ranked countries around the world on various measures of economic liberty. Feulner was notable for believing in a strong U.S. presence in the world, and he was especially close to leaders in Taiwan and South Korea. As recently as the mid-2000s we can recall a delegation of Heritage scholars making the case to us that U.S. defense spending should be 5% of gross domestic product. Today it's closer to 3%, and heading lower under President Trump. ``Born outside Chicago in a German-American Catholic family, Feulner attended Regis College in Denver where he discovered conservative ideas. Barry Goldwater was an early political influence. ``You have to choose between liberty and equality,'' Feulner told John Miller of National Review. ``I picked liberty.'' Each year he published an essay by thinkers who defined conservative principles. ``Feulner was Heritage president for 37 years and remained a trustee in retirement. The think tank has taken a sharp turn toward Trumpian populism in recent years. It opposes free trade and leans toward an isolationist foreign policy. It focuses less on ideas and more on supporting whatever President Trump does. Feulner wasn't always happy with Heritage's new direction, but he kept his misgivings private out of loyalty to the institution. ``As the years advance, it's clear that the late 1970s through the 1980s and 1990s was a unique period of conservative intellectual ambition. Ed Feulner's motto was ``onward, always,'' reflecting his optimism about the durability of America's founding ideals. The young Republicans in Washington may not know it, but they are spending down the intellectual capital stockpiled by Ed Feulner and his generation.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, 6 months have passed since Donald Trump received the mandate of the people to fulfill his promises with extraordinary accomplishments. Among the accomplishments by President Donald Trump are the following: Illegal alien border crossings are at historic lows, and border wall construction has resumed. Costs for everyday goods are near their lowest in 4 years, and wage growth has seen the largest increase in 60 years. Oil and natural gas production have surged, and gas prices are at their lowest level in 4 years. Trump tax cuts have been extended, creating jobs. The President is promoting peace through strength and modernizing American military forces with cutting-edge technology, ensuring that our troops are the best equipped in history. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting existing laws to protect American families with peace through strength, revealing that war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump, mocking Trump, and murdering Ukrainian civilians with rocket attacks as he conducts lovely conversations. Madam Speaker, I wish a happy birthday to Nuclear Regulatory Commission Chairman David Wright.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, South Carolinians are grateful that Rolls-Royce is expanding its manufacturing operations in Aiken County. The $75 million investment will create 60 new jobs, strengthen the local economy, and enhance career opportunities across the state. As a provider of off-highway engines and complete power generation solutions, Rolls-Royce develops and delivers complex power and propulsion solutions for safety-critical applications in the air, at sea, and on land. Since its establishment in 2010, the Aiken facility, with the leadership of their Vice President of Operations, Philipp Steinle, has grown to become a 395,000 square foot campus with state-of-the-art production capabilities, an engine testing facility, office space, a research center, and more. Additionally, this investment will increase the production of engines which will help meet the demand for high-power mission critical back up generators. The dedication and leadership of Chief Executive Officer, Adam Riddle is appreciated. Best wishes to Rolls-Royce for success in their future endeavors.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on July 11, America lost a Devoted Patriot with the death of National Committeeman Glenn McCall. A grateful review of his accomplishments is presented by Joseph Bustos in The State newspaper of Columbia, South Carolina. ``Glenn McCall, the South Carolina Republican Party's national committeeman, died Friday from complications from surgery, the state party said. McCall, who also was the Winthrop University Board chairman, was 71 years old. He had been the state GOP's national committeeman since 2008, also chaired the RNC's budget committee, and served as co-chair of the 2020 Republican National Convention Committee. S.C. GOP Chairman Drew McKissick said McCall will be sorely missed by the party. ``Glenn was not only a wonderful human being, but he was a great leader and representative for South Carolina on the Republican National Committee,'' McKissick said. ``Time and again he used his influence and relationships to help maintain the SCGOP's position as the First in the South presidential primary, and the resulting influence that gives Republicans all over our state.'' Those in the Republican Party described McCall as a ``kind and loyal friend.'' ``Glenn was far more than a friend; he was a mentor, advisor and source of moral clarity,'' former SC GOP Chairman Matt Moore said. ``He was never angry, boastful or self-interested, always steadfast in doing what was right.'' McCall, of Rock Hill, was the state party's first Black national committeeman. ``I loved Glenn McCall from the moment we met on (U.S. Rep.) Ralph Norman's '06 race. He was good and decent, a kind and gentle soul and he was faithful,'' South Carolina GOP operative Rob Godfrey posted on X. ``I embraced every opportunity to work with him. I am thankful for our friendship, and I will miss Glenn deeply. Thank you, Linda, for sharing him.'' McCall served in the U.S. Air Force for 24 years, according to a biography provided by the state party. He was a retired senior vice president of Bank of America, and began serving on the Winthrop board in 2011, the according to the school. ``He was a man of immense faith and personal conviction, as evidenced by the life he lived every day,'' Winthrop President Edward Serna said in an email about McCall to the school. ``Those who interacted with the board on a regular basis will recall how Glenn took the time to speak to everyone in whatever room he found himself.'' He is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, with a bachelor's degree in management information systems and a master's in business administration. ``We haven't always agreed on issues, but he has always represented with class and an open ear,'' state Rep. Brandon Guffey, R-York, posted on Facebook. ``The last time I saw Glenn, was at the state party (reorganization). He came up to congratulate me on winning legislator of the year and thanked me for standing for truth as opposed to falling into the bumper sticker politics many have turned to.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as the senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, an Army veteran myself, and father of four sons who served in the military in the Middle East, I am particularly grateful that House Republicans passed the Defense appropriations bill with the leadership of Chairman Mike Rogers. On behalf of national security for American families, some key provisions are: support for troops and families by delivering a pay raise and improving the quality of life; restoration of combat readiness by funding cutting-edge aircraft, weapons, and modernization; and deterrence of our adversaries with border security and countering the Chinese Communist Party worldwide. House Republicans are achieving peace through strength, the agenda of President Donald Trump. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting existing laws to protect American families with peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin's lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, talking lovely as he murders Ukrainian citizens with rocket attacks. Our sympathy for Rosalie Smith on the passing of her husband, Mayor Pat Smith, of Springdale, South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Syria Caucus, I am grateful to co-lead bipartisan legislation to repeal the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019. Even with the support of war criminal Putin and the terrorist Tehran regime, the murderous Syrian dictator Assad was forced out of the country by the Syrian people. The Syrian people deserve an opportunity for the reconstruction of Syria, assisted by Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. By issuing an executive order, Donald Trump temporarily waived the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, which imposed sanctions on Syria. Now is the opportunity to make it permanent. Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack is doing an incredible job for freedom. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting peace through strength. He is revealing war criminal Putin's lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump with lovely talk while murdering civilians in Ukraine. Today, we celebrate Guam Liberation Day with Delegates Madeleine Bordallo and Jim Moylan, appreciating the courage of 1,200 Navy and Marine servicemembers who died for the liberation of Guam.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Americans are grateful that under the leadership of President Donald Trump, America is beating inflation, leading to lower costs, higher pay, and job creation. American families are experiencing a 7.5 percent increase in real income, more than three times the pace of last year under the Biden administration. Gas prices have fallen nearly 3 percent in May alone, and everyday costs are also down over the past month, including those for meat, poultry, and eggs. President Trump is succeeding in creating jobs for families, increasing opportunities, and defeating inflation. These achievements reflect the goal of President Trump and the Republican-led Congress to put America First. Promises made, promises kept. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting existing laws to protect American families with peace through strength, revealing that war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump, mocking Trump, with Moscow dismissing today Trump issuing a ``theatrical ultimatum'' as Putin murders civilians in Ukraine and even in Russia. Our sympathy on the death of National Committeeman Glenn McCall, a devoted American patriot.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, voters made their mandate clear for a Republican House and a Republican Senate to deliver the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to President Donald Trump on behalf of American families. Passage of this comprehensive law delivers on the America First agenda of President Trump by eliminating wasteful government spending and making government work effectively for American families. Limited government prevails over Big Government. This law provides a framework to secure the border, unleash American energy dominance, extend the Trump tax cuts, create jobs, bring common sense to government, and more. Medicare and Social Security will be protected, ensuring services to the most vulnerable American citizens. Promises made, promises kept. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting existing laws to protect American families with peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting and mocking Trump with ``lovely'' talks with Putin and then ``bomb people at night,'' murdering civilians in Ukraine.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Ms. Jan Jernigan, First Vice President with Morgan Stanley in Columbia, South Carolina, on being awarded South Carolina's highest civilian award, as authorized by Governor Henry McMaster: The Order of the Palmetto. The Order of the Palmetto is awarded to the State's most accomplished and esteemed individuals who make a significant contribution to a particular community. Jan represents all that this award entails as she has devoted her life to helping those in need. In 1984, Jan began her career in wealth management with Merrill Lynch in Columbia and has helped clients ever since. Jan is a founder of Pawmetto Lifeline, one of the most successful animal rescue organizations in the state. She has served as president of the USC Board of Dance since 2010 and is the current Chairwoman of the Capital City/Lake Murray Country Board. Jan also serves on the boards of the Midlands American Heart Association, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and the Columbia Sailing Club. Additionally, in 2017, Jan was given a key to the City of Columbia in recognition of her lifelong service. Jan is a person of honor, dependability, and exceptional distinction. She has many accomplishments to be proud of and has contributed greatly to the state. I send my warmest congratulations and best wishes. I am appreciative for all she has done for South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to recognize Watchmen Broadcasting on 30 years of ministry. In 1995, Dorothy and Russell Spaulding felt a calling to begin a Christian television station in Augusta, Georgia. Now, 30 years later they have transformed the ministry from broadcasting locally with 1,000 watts of power to internationally with 150,000 watts of power, increasing potential viewership. It is through faith that the Spaulding family and Watchmen Broadcasting have helped tens of thousands of people reach Salvation and have prevented more than 8,000 suicides. Without the generosity of ministries like Perry Stone, Channel 55 in Orlando, and local Networks, Watchmen Broadcasting would not be the meaningful success it is today. The Spauldings are a true testament to faith; starting with less than one hundred dollars and a hotel room as an office, Dorothy and Russell have touched the lives of many. Their ministry continues to represent that God uses small beginnings for big impact. Best wishes and prayers for their continued success in faith and ministry as they continue to influence lives and follow the plan God has for them.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairwoman Virginia Foxx of North Carolina for yielding. Mr. Speaker, indeed, Republicans were elected last November, but with promises made, promises kept. Despite the extraordinarily ignorant lies on the other side, the American people know that the bill that we will be voting on today reduces taxes, creating jobs. It is the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime. It provides for securing the border. It provides for energy independence. It provides for the ability to have peace through strength. All of this is in the bill. On compassion, it is not compassion to support programs that are ultimately going to fail. Republicans want people who need assistance to receive assistance. Margaret Thatcher has identified what they are proposing, and that is that socialism will work until you run out of other people's money to spend. They are putting the poor people of America at risk. We are the ones with compassion. Additionally, with promises made, promises kept by Donald Trump, I have lived it. I led the delegation to move the Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. He did that. People at the State Department said that we shouldn't do it because it leads to dislocation. No, it led to the Embassy being in Jerusalem, and it led to the Abraham Accords. We know that last week the President was advised not to bomb Iran, that it would lead to World War III. No, it has led to a cease-fire and the ability to have the Abraham Accords extended to other countries, including Syria. I am really grateful that Lindsey Graham was such an adviser. The President acted despite the naysayers that we have all around us. I just appreciate Donald Trump. Promises made, promises kept.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, House Republicans have passed legislation that delivers on the promises made, promises kept of President Donald Trump by stopping wasteful spending with the big, beautiful bill, eliminating taxes on tips and overtime. This bill secures the border, unleashes American energy, delivers the largest tax cut for working- and middle-class families ever, creates jobs, and brings common sense to government. Medicare and Social Security will be protected, while Medicaid will be guarded against waste, fraud, and abuse as pioneered by Senator Billy Garrett of South Carolina, ensuring it is available to our most vulnerable Americans, with laws enforced by Solicitor David Stumbo. This is important to everyone. A family with two children in South Carolina will receive higher take-home pay, between $7,000 to $10,000, with the new, beautiful bill. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting existing laws to protect American families with peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin's lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, with Putin allied with the murderous regime in Iran who proclaim death to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, June 23, 2025, I was otherwise detained in South Carolina. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 172; YEA on Roll Call No. 173; and YEA on Roll Call No. 174.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the corrupt Georgian Dream party continues to wrongfully arrest opposition leaders of the Republic of Georgia. As the Georgian Dream schemes a one-party state, gives the Chinese Communist Party their Black Sea port, and blocks America from trade, the Georgian people have conducted over 200 days of consecutive protests for freedom. Americans stand with the legitimate President Salome Zourabichvili and the Georgian people. The MEGOBARI Act for freedom, sovereignty, and rule of law received 90 percent of the vote in the House. Joining the proposed Trump Tower in Damascus, Syria, should be the Trump National Golf Course in Tbilisi, Georgia. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is defending American families with peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin's lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, and hosting Iranian murderers in Moscow.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful, at the direction of President Donald Trump, the U.S. Armed Forces have successfully destroyed the nuclear threat of Iran, defending American families. General Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and a VMI graduate, correctly praised this as ``the largest B-2 operational strike in U.S. history.'' Iran is the leading state sponsor of murderous terror in the world, and President Trump has successfully ended a nuclear-armed Iran. Promises made, promises kept. President Trump has proven his willingness for negotiations. However, enemies of America insult this effort. Dictator Assad of Syria was warned in 2017, the Iranian regime was warned, and war criminal Putin has been warned. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting existing laws to protect American families with peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin's lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump, with Putin-ist leaders proposing Russian nuclear weapons for Iran this week.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Dr. Dave Olson, President and Program Manager at Savannah River Mission Completion (SRMC), upon retirement after more than 40 years of dedicated work and service. Before being named President and Program Manager, Dr. Olson served as the president of the former Savannah River Site (SRS) liquid waste contractor. He has years of experience in safety, security, project and risk management, maintenance and engineering in nuclear materials processing, and much more. SRMC is responsible for the safe reduction of curies in aging waste tanks at SRS. As one of the Department of Energy's largest production sites, SRS performs actives ranging from environmental cleanup and protection to nuclear materials storage and disposition. Under the leadership of Dr. Olson, SRMC has worked more than 21 million hours without an injury that has caused a missed worked day, ensured that all facilities are operating safely and efficiently, and met five key regulatory milestones to remove waste from and clean tanks to prepare them for operational closure. Dr. Olson has many accomplishments to be proud of and has aided greatly in the success of SRMC. Best wishes for a wonderful retirement. I am appreciative for all he has done for South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, a dream come true and answer to prayers has been the restoration of friendship of the people of Bulgaria with America after decades of separation by the Iron Curtain. The latest achievement has been the establishment in the National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria of the Friendship Group Bulgaria-- USA. This duplicates the Bulgarian Caucus I founded in 2004 in the U.S. Congress, which I now co-chair with Congressman Brad Schneider of Illinois, confirming Republican and Democrat appreciation of Bulgaria and valued Bulgarian-Americans. My affection for the people of Bulgaria began when I was selected by Lee Atwater of the Reagan Administration to be an observer of the Bulgarian National Assembly elections on June 10, 1990, on behalf of the International Republican Institute. With the collapse of the Soviet Empire, countries of Europe, the Baltics, Central Europe, and Central Asia conducted the first post-communist elections, replacing totalitarian dictatorships. Before arriving in Sofia, my research incorrectly identified Bulgaria appreciated being the most subservient Soviet satellite. Upon arriving, I found that this was not true as it was instantly inspiring to meet courageous Bulgarian patriots restoring democracy, which had been destroyed by Nazis and communists. Additionally, getting my attention was that Bulgaria and my home state of South Carolina were so similar--beautiful beaches to the east, mountains to the west, and our respective capitals of Sofia and Columbia are both in the center. I enjoy confirming to Bulgarians that an extraordinary feature in Bulgaria that we do not have in South Carolina are the phenomenal structures and antiquities of ancient Thrace, Greece, and Rome being the foundation of Western Civilization and remain to remind us of our shared heritage. Pumping gas myself in college, I especially understand gas stations. In 1990, arriving Bulgaria, I only recognized that a pathetic building appearing as an outhouse was actually a gas station because there were lines of cars waiting patiently--with no gas. Then, I found out the cars were not actually cars, but Russian Ladas and East German Trabants, being 2-stroke motorcycle engines with a hood. Now, I see modern Circle K's convenience stores fully stocked with a Wendy's or a Lukoil with a Burger King. And especially good, many cars are now X-5 BMW's made in South Carolina--and I want every Bulgarian to have a BMW. The foundation of the Friendship Group Bulgaria--USA encourages Black Sea patriots of Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia who are under attack by war criminal Putin who is insanely seeking to resurrect the failed Soviet Union, oppressing the people of Russia. One day, Russians will liberate themselves for freedom. Last month, I was honored to meet with Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov and Ambassador Georgi Panayatov, with talented Bulgarian pilots in Greenville, South Carolina, receiving F-22 jet fighters produced by Lockheed Martin. We join valued NATO allies Romania and Turkiye in support of Bulgaria, as Bulgaria is a vital ally with the Novo Selo NATO Base, where young Bulgarians and young Americans train side-by-side for Peace Through Strength.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the Chinese Communist Party is committing genocide against the Uyghur Muslim population. Four years ago, I was grateful to join with Congressman Jim Banks, now Senator, as the first Members of Congress to declare Chinese Communist Party crimes against the Uyghur population as genocide. Only a week later, President Trump carefully declared these crimes a genocide. The Chinese Communist Party is eliminating the Uyghur population through slave labor, forced sterilization, and mass detention. Today, Uyghur retired doctor Gulshan Abbas will spend her 63rd birthday unjustly imprisoned by the Chinese Communist Party in retaliation for her family's courageous advocacy in America. It is important that Radio Free Asia Uyghur Service be able to confirm that Congress stands for the immediate release of Dr. Abbas. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting existing laws to protect American families with peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump, mocking Trump with murderous drone attacks intended for hospitals in Ukraine.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, war criminal Putin, the Chinese Communist Party, and the illegitimate Georgian Dream party are betraying the people of Georgia. The Chinese Communist Party aids Putin with mass murder in Ukraine. According to Media Center Ukraine, the Russian-occupied Ukraine is being illegally mined for granite using Chinese equipment. In April, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said: ``Chinese representatives are engaged in production of weapons in Russia.'' Additionally, a Georgian port on the Black Sea awarded to Georgian, European, and American companies was terminated and given to Chinese companies. The Georgian Dream is colluding with the CCP. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting existing laws to protect American families with peace through strength, revealing more war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump and mocking Trump with increasing mass murder of civilians of Ukraine with world-record illegal drone attacks.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, 250 years ago, on June 14th, the United States Army was founded. Established by the Second Continental Congress, this marked the first American national military force a year before signing the Declaration of Independence. The Army transitioned from a horse-mounted cavalry to a modernized force of over 940,000 Active-Duty, Reserve, and National Guard soldiers. I was inspired by my father, First Lieutenant Hugh Wilson, who served with the Flying Tigers in the Army Air Corps, defending India and liberating China. I am grateful to have 31 years in the Army, with three sons who have served: Alan in Iraq, Julian in Egypt, and Hunter in Afghanistan. Aptly summarized by the Army itself, ``Older than the Nation it defends,'' the U.S. Army has made a difference in history. While protecting the homeland and keeping wars foreign, the U.S. Army has liberated more countries from oppression than any other Army in world history. In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting existing laws to protect American families with peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin's lies, insulting Trump and demeaning Trump with today's attack of over 500 drones to murder civilians in the largest drone attack in warfare history.