Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yesterday's Washington Post editorial was correct when they stated that President Obama's goals in Afghanistan, as he outlined in March, were essential to preventing another attack on the United States by al Qaeda and its extremist allies. Indeed, there is much at stake in Afghanistan in establishing security and stability throughout the region. President Obama's original strategy is vital to ensuring that terrorist organizations do not reestablish safe havens or return the Taliban to power. Our military commanders and troops on the ground are doing extraordinary work. We need to ensure they have the resources to complete their mission: to defeat the terrorists and to help provide, as President Obama mentioned in March, stability in the region. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, our military men and women are fighting in Afghanistan to defeat terrorists overseas and protect families here at home. Having visited my former unit, the 218th Brigade of the South Carolina Army National Guard, during their year- long deployment, I know firsthand that our servicemembers in Afghanistan are doing incredible work along with the Afghani police and army units they train. In March, when President Obama announced his strategy for Afghanistan, I commended the President for moving forward with the plan based on the counsel of military leadership on the ground. In light of the recent reports that General Stanley McChrystal has requested additional forces, I hope we continue to heed the advice of our commanders in Afghanistan. We must provide the level of force and resources necessary to help our brave military complete their mission. We cannot allow the terrorists to establish a safe haven from which to attack America and our allies. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I am humbled and grateful for the overwhelming support by the people of South Carolina. House Republicans have been developing commonsense reforms for our health care system. The Republican Study Committee, led by Dr. Tom Price of Georgia, has introduced H.R. 3400, a bill to make health insurance accessible, affordable, and portable. The bill gives small businesses the tools to provide coverage for their employees, it covers preexisting conditions, and promotes wellness and a healthy lifestyle. The Republican plan does not impose taxes on individuals and small businesses, which will cost jobs. It does not add billions more to our Nation's debt. The American people have spoken, and their voices must not be ignored. We can work together for health insurance reform. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, during the August recess, I held four of the largest townhalls in the history of South Carolina: 1,700 in Columbia; 1,500 in Lexington; 1,500 in Beaufort; and 1,200 in Hilton Head. These were passionate events, full of honest patriots, and nearly 95 percent want us to work together for health insurance reform but not for a government takeover. During these events, I explained two health care bill amendments which were adopted. The first was to exempt and protect TRICARE from the proposed mandates already included in the bill. TRICARE serves 9.4 million active duty members, National Guard and Reserve members, veterans, their families, and survivors. The second amendment urges Members of Congress who vote in favor of a government-run option to enroll in the program themselves. If it's good enough for the American people, it's good enough for Congress. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Thank you, Mr. Leader. I appreciate your service for America, and I further respect the majority leader, Mr. Hoyer. Mr. Speaker, I am humbled and grateful for the support and prayers of my wife, Roxanne, my four sons, my staff, the people of South Carolina, my colleagues, and the American people. Mr. Speaker, I think it is clear to the American people that there are far more important issues facing this Nation than what we are addressing right now. The President said, ``The time for games is over.'' I agree with the President. He graciously accepted my apology, and the issue is over. However, this action today will have done nothing for the taxpayers to rein in the growing cost and size of the Federal Government. It will not help more Americans secure jobs, promote better education, ensure retirement, or reform health insurance. It is the Democrat leadership, in their rush to pass a very bad government health care plan, that is bad medicine for America. It has muzzled the voices we represent and provoked partisanship. When we are done here today, we will not have taken any steps closer to helping more American families afford health insurance or helping small businesses create new jobs. The challenges our Nation faces are far bigger than any one Member of this House. It is time that we move forward and get to work for the American people.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, during the August recess, I was honored to host the largest congressional townhalls in the history of South Carolina: 1,700 people in Columbia; 1,500 in Lexington; 1,500 in Beaufort; and 1,200 in Hilton Head. During my 25 years of serving the public in the State Senate and Congress, I have not seen such passionate events full of patriots, 95 percent of whom support health insurance reform, but not a government takeover. I presented my concerns in a handout with a government-run health care plan: $1.6 trillion in costs, 100 million people losing their current coverage, $818 billion in taxes, 1.6 million jobs lost, according to the National Federation of Independent Businesses, and rationing of care. I presented a better way, the Empowering Patients First Act, introduced by the Republican Study Committee led by Dr. Tom Price. It provides for portability, keeping current coverage, tax incentives to purchase insurance, lower costs through competition, and bars government-funded abortions. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th and the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the President continues to try to sell the false myth that the health care debate is only between the Democrat bill or the status quo. This is completely inaccurate. Republicans have offered different solutions and legislation to fix what is wrong with our health insurance system. Unfortunately, Democrats are unwilling to acknowledge that there may be other proposals, reforms that do not add billions to the national debt, cost millions of jobs or expand the size and powers of the Federal Government. Republicans believe we can make health insurance more affordable by giving Americans more of their own tax dollars to purchase insurance, shop for plans across State lines, and association health plans for small businesses. The debate should be built on the honest exchange over what proposals are best to expand health insurance coverage, not on the false effort that we enact a big government takeover or do nothing. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, during August, people all across America stood up to have their voices heard on the issue of health care. In South Carolina, I was grateful to host four townhalls with the largest turnout in the history of our State. We had 1,700 people at Keenan High School in Columbia, 1,500 people at Lexington High School, 1,500 people at Beaufort High School, and 1,200 people at Hilton Head High School. The discussions were lively, but respectful, with over 95 percent of constituents opposed to the government takeover of the health care system. They want to see health insurance reform. Every quarter during my 25-year service in the State Senate and Congress I have hosted townhalls, but this August the turnout was absolutely historic. It is important to share with the American people that there is another choice for reform. Republicans offered positive reforms, including the Empowering Patients First Act, H.R. 3400. This will fix what is failing in our health care system while protecting the doctor-patient relationship. We want to expand affordability and accessibility without adding billions to our Nation's debt and eliminating 1.6 million jobs, as cited by the NFIB. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on August 8, 2009, Richard ``Preacher'' Church Whitner and his wife Myrna Allen Whitner celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. In 1959, they were married in Moncks Corner, South Carolina--Myrna's hometown. Preacher hails from Rock Hill, South Carolina. As long time friends, I want to congratulate Preacher and Myrna of Indigo Run on Hilton Head Island on five decades of marriage and wish them many more years of health and happiness.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I wish to recognize Jim Hamilton of Columbia, South Carolina, for his 46 years of service as airport manager of the Columbia Owens Downtown Airport. Jim has been an active member of our community--participating in many diverse organizations and working to educate the community on aviation, the dangers of drug abuse, and supporting efforts to transport children with disabilities and those suffering from severe burns to Shrine hospitals throughout the country. He has even volunteered his time as an emergency standby pilot for flights to transport transplant candidates and critically ill patients. For 13 years, Jim has driven a bus each Wednesday morning to bring elderly individuals to shop for groceries and even successfully convinced some of his fellow citizens to contribute refreshments for the bus ride. On behalf of the Columbia Owens Downtown Airport, Jim has fought to secure funding for a reconstruction and redesign of the airport as well as safety upgrades. In recognition of his tireless service to the community, Jim has been honored twice with the Order of the Palmetto by two separate governors--the state's highest civilian honor--as well as numerous other honors and awards. I commend Jim Hamilton for his service to our community and his dedication to his fellow citizens.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish a fond farewell to a member of the Second Congressional District staff, Allen Aimar. Allen first served as a field representative in our Beaufort Lowcountry office before coming to Washington as military legislative assistant. Allen is leaving Washington behind for his law school career at Capital University in Columbus, Ohio. He will be joined by his wife, Amber, who previously served on the staff of the Second District and as staff to Dr. Phil Roe. Allen has been vital in helping constituents, particularly on military issues. He has brought his own experience and knowledge as a veteran of the Army National Guard in Iraq. He appreciates our servicemembers, their families and veterans. Allen is the son of Allen and Deborah Aimar of Johnson City, Tennessee, and of Greg and Marian Erickson of Beaufort, South Carolina, and is brother to Adam Aimar. We are all tremendously proud of Allen and Amber, and we wish them and their young son, Alexander Jacob Aimar, all the best in the years to come. Godspeed to the Aimar family. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on July 29th, South Carolina and Lexington County lost a long time friend and leader with the passing of Jay Criscione. Our community has been enhanced as world- class due to his vision on behalf of young people and our senior citizens. Joey Holleman of The State newspaper in South Carolina has thoughtfully penned the following tribute to Mr. Criscione. [From the State] Lexington Recreation Leader Dies (By Joey Holleman) Jay Criscione, who directed the Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission through more than two decades of rapid growth, died Wednesday after a battle with cancer. He was 61. Criscione started with the recreation agency in 1973, soon after he graduated from Clemson. He took over as executive director in 1986. Criscione steered the agency toward projects that drew from large geographic areas--the four leisure centers, the Oak Grove and Pine Grove softball complexes, and a national- caliber tennis center. He reasoned that the softball and tennis projects would give the county double benefits. Local players could use the facilities, and local businesses would benefit from regional and national tournaments held at the venues. ``He was a pioneer in the softball craze of bringing in national tournaments,'' said Jim Headley, director of the S.C. Recreation and Parks Association. ``What he did with Oak Grove and then Pine Grove inspired Rock Hill, Florence and Aiken to enter the softball market. He saw sports tourism as an economic engine.'' Adept at working every financing angle, Criscione landed state grants that paid most of the construction cost for a horse arena in South Congaree and multiple senior centers. He also helped convince County Council to approve multimillion- dollar construction bonds. ``He had a vision for the county,'' said Larry Mack, longtime chairman of the recreation commission. ``He worked real hard to supply the needs of the people for recreation.'' In recent years, Criscione had been slowed by multiple bouts with various cancers. He is survived by his mother, Juanita R. Criscione of Chester, a daughter and son-in-law, Ramsey and Trent Goodman of Lexington, a sister, Paulette Criscione of Lexington, and two grandchildren.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, here are a few thoughts on the Democrat health tax bill by Democrats: ``This bill . . . does not strike the balance between preserving what works in our current system and fixing what does not work.'' Another: ``To try to pay for health care reform on the backs of small businesses, I can't support that.'' Finally: ``The (House) bill being presented, with a poorly defined public option, is a Trojan horse leading to government-controlled health care, and it is not in the best interests of the public.'' These are the words and concerns of some of our Democrat colleagues. The Democrat plan raises taxes and mandates on small businesses, killing jobs. It creates a government takeover of health care that will knock millions of Americans, including senior citizens on Medicare, off their current plans. There is a better way to help Americans afford health care, and it starts with empowering the people, not Big Government. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as Democrats push for a government takeover of health care, I hope they will abide by a very simple standard: if a government-run health plan is good enough for the American people, it's good enough for Congress. During consideration of the over 1,000-page bill in the Education and Labor Committee, I successfully got an amendment passed that would provide that Congress Members who vote in favor of government-run health care would enroll in the plan themselves. The American people should monitor that this provision is kept in the bill. I want to commend Congressman John Fleming, a physician, for originally promoting this concept of fairness. I urge my Democrat colleagues to adopt this standard if they insist on dragging a Big Government bureaucracy between patients and doctors. The American people deserve better to protect jobs. In conclusion, God bless our troops and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 3326--Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010. Requesting Member: Congressman Joe Wilson Bill Number: H.R. 3326--Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010 Account: Other Procurement, Air Force Legal Name of Requesting Entity: South Carolina Air National Guard Address of Requesting Entity: McEntire JNGB, 1325 South Carolina Rd., Eastover, SC 29044 Description of Request: I have secured $1,500,000 for the South Carolina Air National Guard Eagle Vision Upgrade. Eagle Vision (EV) is a USAF mobile satellite imagery collection and processing system assigned to the SC ANG that will be used as a war time resource in the war on terrorism as well as a counter drug and Homeland Security asset in the United States. Funding would upgrade the EV system at McEntire JNGB to include a 1 meter infrared capability. Emergency planners and responders would be able to look through clouds and smoke with infrared enabling them to plan responses during an emergency instead of reacting afterward. Matching funds are not applicable. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Joe Wilson Bill Number: H.R. 3326--Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010 Account: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation, Army Legal Name of Requesting Entity: South Carolina Research Authority Address of Requesting Entity: 1330 Lady Street, # 503, Columbia, SC 29201 Description of Request: I have secured $2,500,000 for the South Carolina Research Authority's Highly Integrated Production for Expediting Reset (HIPER). The funding will drive downstream efficiencies in manufacturing and quality inspection by enabling the utilization of laser scanning technology to significantly shorten the time and lower the cost for resetting and modernizing the military's small arms and crew-served weapons. HIPER will implement a program which ensures the provision of the best and safest weaponry to the warfighter and in the quickest and most efficient way, by replacing parts and resetting weapons more quickly and at reduced cost. This will help keep our troops safe and fully equipped with the optimum defense mechanisms they need to effectively complete their missions, while using cutting-edge technology to reduce costs and lower wait times. To achieve this goal SCRA will be relying on industry and government partners in numerous states, resulting in employment sustained and created via manufacturing and research requirements. Matching funds are not applicable. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Joe Wilson Bill Number: H.R. 3326--Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010 Account: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation, Army Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Lifeblood Medical Address of Requesting Entity: 10120 Two Notch Road, Suite 2, Columbia, South Carolina 29223 Description of Request: I have secured $2,000,000 for the Lifeblood Medical's Human Organ and Tissue Preservation Technology (HOTPT). Funding will be used to continue and advance studies for Oxygen Therapeutics and Extending Room Temperature Organ Preservation so that the technology can be brought to FDA for approval. The use of funds is justified due to the potential of finding the first approved oxygen therapeutics which will solve the world issue of a lack of donated blood for trauma, military and casualty use. The use of funds is justified so that the supply of organs for transplantation can adequately meet the demand through extending the preservation time at room temperature. Large animal studies have proven successful in both oxygen therapeutics and organ preservation. Prior DoD funds have also proven that the Lifeblood technology can reverse cell damage and render organs that are labeled untransplantable into an acceptable organ for donation and transplantation. Matching funds will be provided by cash on hand, licensing fee revenues, and product sales. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Joe Wilson Bill Number: H.R. 3326--Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010 Account: Procurement, Defense Wide Legal Name of Requesting Entity: FN Manufacturing, LLC Address of Requesting Entity: 797 Old Clemson Road, Columbia, SC 29229-4203 Description of Request: I have secured $2,500,000 for FN Manufacturing to continue production of the Special Operations Combat Assault Rifle (SCAR). The SCAR was selected after a full and open competition. It meets validated US SOCOM requirements for a 21st Century modular battle rifle available in 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm, and with Close Quarter Battle, Long-Range, and Sniper variants. Federal/taxpayer funding of the SCAR program will provide US Special Operations Forces with a far more effective and reliable combat rifle than the current M- 4/M-16 family of rifles. In its various modular configurations, the SCAR will replace five different rifles now in use, greatly reducing the need for maintenance and logistics support and associated costs. Matching funds are not applicable. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Joe Wilson Bill Number: H.R. 3326--Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010 Account: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation, Army Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Advanced Technology Institute Address of Requesting Entity: 5300 International Blvd., North Charleston, SC 29418 Description of Request: I have secured $3,000,000 for Advanced Technology Institute to continue the Vanadium Technology Program. The Vanadium Technology Program funds the research, development and prototype-testing necessary to implement vanadium alloyed steel into warfighter protection and mobility. This funding builds on successes accomplished previously which include: reductions in weight, fabrication cost, and welding costs of 21%, 10%, and 53% respectively, leading to a smaller, higher-performing vanadium steel trailer design for the Army/Marine Joint Light Tactical Vehicle System; a longer span temporary bridge, designed by the Army Corps of Engineers and the University of South Carolina, to bridge road gaps in combat regions like Iraq; and, a new class of lighter, longer span trusses and joists, based on vanadium hot rolled steel angle shapes, have been developed and laboratory tested. Matching funds are not applicable. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Joe Wilson Bill Number: H.R. 3326--Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010 Account: Aircraft Procurement, Army Legal Name of Requesting Entity: South Carolina Army National Guard Address of Requesting Entity: 1 National Guard Rd, Columbia, SC 29201 Description of Request: I have secured $3,000,000 for the South Carolina Army National Guard Vibration Management Enhancement Program (VMEP). This funding will continue fielding this proven capability on the Army National Guard's AH-64, CH-47, and UH-60 helicopter fleets. VMEP collects and utilizes information derived from onboard sensors to indicate the state and health of the helicopter drive system and rotational components. VMEP enabled the SCARNG to realize a total savings in parts costs over a 12-month period of $1.4 million, as well as an increase in mission capable rates. These funds would ensure that the South Carolina Army National Guard aviation program stays in the forefront of embedded technology doctrine. Matching funds are not applicable. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Requesting Member: Congressman Joe Wilson Bill Number: H.R. 3326--Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010 Account: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation, Defense Wide Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Two Stroke International Address of Requesting Entity: 8 Schein Loop, Beaufort, SC 29906 Description of Request: I have secured $1,900,000 for the Non- Gasoline Burning Outboard Engine. The Navy SEAL's currently use a 30 hp and 55 hp engine on their Combat Rubber Raiding Crafts. This effort is focused on the 30 hp engine. The program name for this outboard motor project is ``Phoenix.'' The team broke down the existing motor to multiple elements; ignition system; carburetion; exhaust and intake silencing, lower unit, control apparatus, and enclosure cover. The goal of this effort is to provide the SEAL's with an advanced outboard reconnaissance engine that would burn multiple fuels (JP grades, gas, diesel, alcohol). It will be quiet for stealthy operations, have an extended fuel range using a microwave ignition system currently in development, and a lower unit that allows it to go through mud and kelp without harming the engine. Additionally the engine will take advantage of the newest technology to be resistant to salt water that make the engines last longer, decrease weight and increase range. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the House Democrat leadership remains opposed to working in a bipartisan effort to cure what ails our health care system. This is unfortunate because this has caused bipartisan opposition to their Big Government, job-killing, debt-producing, tax-hike health care plan. The American people deserve better to create jobs. The American people know better than to believe that the government is best to run our Nation's health care system or keep costs down. The Democrat plan does not lower the cost of health care. It just raises taxes on small businesses and cuts Medicare by half a trillion dollars. Those tax increases and Medicare cuts do not even cover the costs producing an estimated $239 billion more added to the deficit. Taxing small businesses and knocking seniors off their current health care plan is no way to reform health care. Republicans stand ready to work with our Democrat colleagues to develop commonsense reform. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on Saturday, July 25th Iraqi Kurds went to the polls to elect a new Parliament. The election was a success garnering nearly 80 percent participation from eligible voters. This was an important benchmark for the people of Iraq's Kurdistan Region as they continue to build a democracy both in their own region and Iraq as a whole. Congratulations to the people of the Kurdish Region for their courage and determination to promote democracy within a federated Iraq. I commend and congratulate Kurdish regional President Massoud Barzani on his reelection. President Barzani's leadership will be vital as the local Kurdish population works with their fellow countrymen in Baghdad to resolve certain outstanding issues including oil production and revenue-sharing as well as territory disputes. Moving forward, I know that the people of Iraqi Kurdistan will work together with the United States to bring peace and prosperity to that region and to the nation of Iraq.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself so much time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of House Joint Resolution 44, honoring the noncommissioned officers in the United States Army. I thank Congressman Ike Skelton, the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, for introducing this legislation. No one has better expressed the reason for this resolution than the current Sergeant Major of the Army, Kenneth Preston. In his view, ``Today's NCO Corps is a standard bearer of one of the Army's greatest success stories, the All-Volunteer Force, and serves as a role model for armies of the world to emulate.'' I fully agree with the Sergeant Major's statement. Along with my colleague, Mr. Marshall of Georgia, I, too, am an Army veteran, and in my own 31-year experience in the Army National Guard and Reserve, noncommissioned officers were indispensable to the accomplishment of the missions we undertook. This is true of NCOs across all branches of the military. One of my four sons serving today in the military, a Navy doctor, has been so impressed by the leadership and professionalism exhibited by the NCOs with whom he serves that he recommended that I invite one of their children to work as an intern in our office, who is present with us today. Todd O'Brien is the son of Master Chief Petty Officer Tadeo O'Brien. Master Chief O'Brien supports the U.S. Navy SEALs as an independent duty corpsman in the Naval Special Warfare Logistical Support Medical Group 2 at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Virginia. While he serves in a different military branch, he shares the values of service, honor, integrity, and courage common to all professional noncommissioned officers. The Army is adaptable and successful on the battlefield because the corporals and sergeants have the training, education, professionalism, and operational and strategic awareness to interpret and issue orders as necessary within their duties and in the absence of commissioned officers. The all-volunteer Army has been able to sustain itself through 8 years of war in two fronts because of corporals and sergeants who have made great personal sacrifices in the global war against terrorism. Moreover, the noncommissioned officers of the Army have not only trained future leaders, both officer and enlisted, but they have also gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure the welfare of junior enlisted personnel and their families. In recognition of the current and historical contributions, sacrifices, leadership, and professionalism of its noncommissioned officers, the Army has designated 2009 as the ``Year of the NCO.'' This resolution is part of that effort to honor the corporals and sergeants who are the backbone of the Army. I would urge all Members to vote ``yes'' on this resolution as one way of expressing their deepest appreciation for the NCOs who are serving and have served. I would also urge that each one of us, as we go home to our districts and meet with our constituents, take the time to explain what a magnificent Army this Nation has, especially because of the men and women who call themselves NCOs. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, it is an honor for me to be on the floor today with Congressman Marshall, with Delegate Faleomavaega, two veterans themselves who could tell firsthand heartfelt indication of their appreciation of NCOs. I come from the State of South Carolina. The State flag of South Carolina is a recognition of the significance of the NCOs to our independence and freedom. This flag of South Carolina has a palmetto tree on the flag. It recognizes the Battle of Fort Moultrie on Sullivan's Island. The British fleet attacked the fort. The soft palmetto logs, the cannonballs hit the logs and bounced off or absorbed. At the same time, they did knock down the American flag. And at that time Sergeant William Jasper had the courage to raise the flag back up, indicating to the British that they were not going to be successful. The British fleet withdrew. The flag of South Carolina has a palmetto tree. It also has a crescent. The crescent indicated the rank of a sergeant during the American Revolution on the helmet. So we, the State of South Carolina, are forever grateful for what NCOs have meant, and forever in perpetuity we appreciate what H.J. Res. 44 means.

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

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, there is bipartisan concern in Congress and across America that the House Democrat leadership's health bill will drive up short-term deficits and long- term debt, ration care with waiting lists, and destroy jobs. Some estimates range from 1.6 million by the NFIB to 4.7 million jobs lost due to this legislation. There is a better, more positive way to approach health care reform, and it starts by sitting down in a bipartisan way to build a consensus. We all believe the status quo is unacceptable, that we must work to make health care more affordable, accessible and of the highest quality. Republicans have offered a set of proposals we feel can expand accessibility for individuals and small businesses while preserving the doctor-patient relationship. We should promote health care reform, but we should not sacrifice quality and choice just for an arbitrary timeline. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the President says incorrectly that if you like your health care coverage you can keep it under his plan. This has been refuted by many sources, including the White House, which has admitted that the President's rhetoric should not be taken literally. Unfortunately, with the mandates and new taxes on small businesses included in the Democrat bill, the question should be: if you like your job, can you keep it? With estimates ranging from 1.6 million to 4.7 million jobs lost under the Democrat scheme, it is clear this plan will destroy jobs and weaken our economy. You cannot make health care more affordable for Americans if you destroy jobs. Republicans want to give the American people a leg up through tax relief and resources for small businesses to provide quality health care coverage. We have solutions that do not rely on tax hikes, mandates, and Big Government bureaucrats which lead to waiting lists and rationing. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, small businesses face challenging economic threats. Those who can afford to are struggling to provide health care to their employees. The last thing small businesses need--and we've had 2.6 million jobs lost since the new President came in office--are more mandates and tax hikes that will destroy jobs. Unfortunately, under their health care tax, Democrats are proposing just that. They believe small businesses should abide by government mandates and provide health care that meets a bureaucratic code or suffer an 8 percent tax and fines up to $500,000. This is no way to treat the most prolific job-creating engine of our economy. Republicans have solutions for affordable, accessible, and portable health care without tax hikes on families and small businesses. We reject the rationing of health care and government intrusion and propose flexibility for small businesses to band together for affordable health care. Republicans have solutions that will empower individuals, not Big Government. We will promote new jobs. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.