Robert Wittman

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retirement of Chief Warrant Officer Veronica G. Wormly. As a member of the United States Military and current resident of Toano, Virginia, Veronica Wormly plans her summer 2019 retirement after a total of 34 years of service. Born in Texas, educated in the Midwest, and now residing in our First District, Veronica Wormly's career has taken her across this nation. After enlisting in the United States Army on February 29, 1984, Ms. Wormly quickly rose through the ranks. Beginning as a private in that same year, she soon became sergeant just four years later while remaining a Personnel Administrative Specialist in Oklahoma City. After a brief time as a Drill Sergeant in Winston Salem, North Carolina, Ms. Wormly began work for the 388th Medical Battalion in Kansas. In 1997 she was commissioned as a member of the U.S. Army Reserves after 13 years of active duty service and received a Liberal Arts degree at Fort Hays State University in 1998. Two years later she would also finish a Master of Science in Instructional Technology from that same university. With her degrees in hand, now-Chief Warrant Officer Wormly became a Military Personnel Technician for the 89th Regional Support Command until 2005, then moved to Germany as a Human Resource Technician. She then served as a Senior Leader Development Officer for both the 4th and 5th Command Chief Warrant Officers of the Army in Crystal City and Fort Belvoir. Today, Ms. Wormly is the Senior Warrant Officer Advisor to the TRADOC Deputy Commanding General at Fort Eustis, Virginia. As an active and reserve member of the U.S. Army, Ms. Wormly received multiple decorations, service medals, and badges. These include the Kuwait Liberation Medal in 1991, the Army Reserves Overseas Training Ribbon in 1997, and the Meritorious Service Medal w/5 Oak Leaf Cluster in 2012. Along with her two degrees, Ms. Wormly has completed numerous officer training courses pertaining to our national security, and the wealth of information she has gained over the years is invaluable. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the bounty of Veronica G. Wormly's accomplishments as she enters retirement, as her family also rejoices in the recognition of her lifetime of dutiful service.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the active duty retirement of ITC(SW) Michael S. Hammer, a brave and honorable man who dedicated his life to the U.S. Navy. ITC(SW) Michael S. Hammer enlisted in the Navy in 1994 and shipped out the day after graduating high school. His first overseas deployment was with the Commander Submarine Group Seven in Yokosuka, Japan. There he supported telecommunications to deployed and shore based units. ITC(SW) Hammer then went back to school but soon returned to Japan on his assignment to the Commander Seventh Fleet which embarked on the USS Blue Ridge. ITC(SW) Hammer then served a shore duty assignment with the Naval Security Group Activity, as a computer network analyst and an assistant Command Master-at-Arms in Fort Meade. His third tour took ITC(SW) Hammer back stateside to the Naval Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic, where he served as both the Joint Forces Tactical Operations and Communications Officer and Operations Administrative Leading Chief. He next was deployed back out to sea on the USS Mahan as the leading Chief for the Radio Division as well as the Command Information Assurance Manager. ITC(SW) Hammer spent his following shore duty at the Navy Yard, serving as the Field Support Activity. Finally, ITC(SW) Hammer was deployed on his last tour on the USS Truxtun with the USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group to the Middle East and Mediterranean. While there, he performed the duties of Radio Leading Chief and the command's Information Systems Security Manager. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the incredible accomplishments of ITC(SW) Michael S. Hammer. Words alone cannot express our gratitude for his service. May God bless ITC(SW) Michael S. Hammer and the U.S. Navy.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Chair, I was unavoidably detained due to illness. Had I been present, I would have voted ``YEA'' on rollcall No. 132.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I was not present for Roll Call Vote No. 130 on ordering the previous question of H. Res. 252 and Roll Call No. 131 on adoption of the rule, H. Res. 252. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 130 and No 131.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Change of Command of Commander Damon B. Loveless, a brave and honorable man who has dedicated his life to the U.S. Navy. CDR Damon Loveless attended the U.S. Naval Academy where he received a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering and was commissioned an Ensign in 2001. He earned his Wings of Gold in April 2003. Commander Loveless reported to the VF-101 Grim Reapers in Virginia Beach, VA where he qualified in the F-14 Tomcat. He completed his first deployment with Carrier Air Wing SEVEN on USS George Washington in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and later supported Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2007, CDR Loveless transferred to the VFA-122 Flying Eagles in Lemoore, CA where he served as Instructor Pilot, Air-to-Ground Syllabus Phase Head and a Program Model Manager. In 2009, CDR Loveless was selected to serve in a Department of Defense Legislative Fellowship with Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01), in Washington, D.C. Then, CDR Loveless was transferred to Commander Carrier Strike Group EIGHT in Norfolk, VA where he served as the Flag Lieutenant to the Commander. CDR Loveless reported to the VFA-115 Eagles for his Department Head tour in NAF Atsugi, Japan in 2012. He served as Safety Officer, Administrative Officer, Operations Officer, and Maintenance Officer and embarked on USS George Washington. After, CDR Loveless reported to the Pentagon as a Branch Chief on the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs' of Staff in the J-6 Directorate. He later attended Joint Forces Senior Staff College in Norfolk, VA, graduating in March of 2017. CDR Loveless joined the Tomcatters of VFA-31 in Virginia Beach, VA, as the Executive Officer in 2018. CDR Loveless has accumulated more than 2,700 flight hours with over 600 carrier arrested landings His personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Strike/Flight Air Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the incredible accomplishments of Commander Damon Loveless. Words alone cannot express our gratitude for his service. May God bless Commander Damon Loveless and the U.S. Navy.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I am honored to use this time to recognize the Lions Club of Montclair, Virginia. The club will celebrate their forty-first year anniversary in June 2019. The Montclair Lions club was founded in 1979 at the Montclair Country Club and elected their first president, Mr. Ron Milam, soon thereafter. As part of the June 2019 celebration, the one remaining active charter member, Mr. Terry Tallent, will be assuming the role as the club's 41st President. Over the past forty-years, the club has raised upwards of a half million dollars and provided hundreds of thousands of volunteer hours in support of various charitable organizations and community service projects within the First District. The Montclair Lions Club has supported the Old Dominion Eye Bank, training of leader dogs for the blind, high school scholarships, Action in Community Trough Service (ACTS), Boys and Girls Club of Prince William County, little league baseball teams, the Boy Scouts of America, Special Olympics and many more. The men and women of the Lions Club of Montclair exemplify the best of the spirit of the First District. Their lives of patriotism, service, and selflessness stand as an example to the ideals founded in the Lions Clubs motto ``We Serve.'' Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing this momentous occasion for the Lions Club of Montclair and to wish them the brightest future.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Harrison ``Smitty'' Milton Smith, Jr., who passed away at the age of 83 years old on February 12, 2019. Harrison's service to our nation spans 20 years, including time in both the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Air Force and active duty service overseas during the Vietnam War. After his military career, Smitty worked for the U.S. Postal Service and retired after 21 years. He was a member of the Fredericksburg Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Harrison is survived by his wife Donna Lee Smith, five children, Elizabeth Terry Thompson and her husband Paul, Mike Smith, Don Smith and his wife Virginia, Rosie McCauley and her husband Dave, Harrison Smith III and his wife Melissa; one sister, Theresa Willis; 20 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in remembrance of Harrison ``Smitty'' Milton Smith, Jr. Words alone cannot express our gratitude for his life of service. May God bless Smitty and his family during this difficult time.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retirement of Dr. Elizabeth (Sissy) Crowther as President of the Rappahannock Community College. After 15 years as President, Elizabeth will be leaving the College a better, stronger institution of higher education and learning. A Northern Neck native, Sissy grew up on Bruington Farm in Northumberland County. Her late father, Rudolph Prosser Crowther, Sr., was president and then chairman of Lillian Lumber Company in Northumberland County, and served on the Rappahannock Community College local board in the 1980s. After graduating from St. Margaret's School in Tappahannock, Crowther attended Virginia Tech where she received both a bachelor's and master's in English. After college, she moved to Richmond, where she began a career in financial services. She aided J. Sargeant Reynolds and John Tyler community colleges with providing educational programs for their employees. Crowther was inspired by the change and inspiration she saw, shifting her career from banking to working in the community college system. She was accepted into a doctoral program at the College of William & Mary, becoming friends with a colleague who encouraged Crowther to apply to her first job at Rappahannock Community College. She then advanced to positions at Lord Fairfax Community College and Blue Ridge Community College, ultimately returning to Rappahannock as President. Since 2004, Crowther has provided leadership and oversight for College and community initiatives. They include growing the Educational Foundation's assets from $1 million to $11 million; completing facility renovations at both the Glenns and Warsaw campuses; adding satellite sites in Kilmarnock and New Kent; expanding partnerships with community organizations, agencies, and businesses including the establishment of LEAD Northern Neck; and providing focused resources on relevant programs. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing Dr. Elizabeth Crowther's accomplishments as she ends her tenure as president of Rappahannock Community College. We hope she enjoys her new life back on the family farm near Reedville, pursuing personal interests and traveling with her family.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of John Otho ``Jack'' Marsh, Jr., who passed away on February 4, 2019. John was 92 years old. Jack was known for his love for the community and his years of public service. At the age of eighteen, Jack enlisted in the United States Army during World War II in Germany. From 1954 to 1976, Jack served in the Army Reserves and the Virginia National Guard 29th Division. Not long after his service, Jack earned a law degree and began a career in politics. From 1963 to 1971, he served four terms for what was then the 7th District of Virginia. Choosing not to seek a fifth term, he continued his career as a Counselor in President Gerald Ford's cabinet and eventually as the Secretary of the Army for the longest time in our nation's history. From 1989-1994, Jack served as Chairman of the Reserve Forces Policy Board, a position he was appointed to by former Secretary of Defense Cheney. Congressman Marsh served for over two decades on the Advisory Council of the Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences (VIMS) and received the VIMS Pathfinder Award. Much of their amazing work impacts my very own district, as they work to meet the issues facing the Chesapeake Bay and the coastal ocean. Jack also served on the Board of Visitors at Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and is one of the few honorary alumni of VMI. Jack was honored with the prestigious VMI New Market Medal, for his public service and role in the preservation and interpretation of the Hall of Valor. The Commonwealth not only lost a public servant and community leader, but also a patriot who has dedicated his entire life to serving our great nation. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in remembrance of John Otho ``Jack'' Marsh, Jr. Words cannot express our gratitude. May God bless Jack and his family as his legacy lives on through his service.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 47, the Natural Resources Management Act. Mr. Speaker, this bill signifies a strong bipartisan consensus and commitment to protecting our Nation's public resources, including parks, wildlife, habitat, and access to the outdoors. Today's vote will help preserve thousands of acres of public land so that Americans can visit, explore, fish, hunt, and enjoy wildlife in the outdoors for generations to come. I am particularly proud of the measure which will provide long-term sustainability of the Land and Water Conservation Fund. I am also proud to see the important sportsmen's titles included in this bill that will expand access for recreation, fishing, and hunting on public lands. I would like to thank Ranking Member Bishop and Chairman Grijalva for their tireless work to help make this bill a reality. As a lifelong sportsman and supporter of our Nation's refuges, parks, and public lands, I urge every Member of this body to support this legislation so that we can provide permanent stability for the Land and Water Conservation Fund to improve access for sportsmen and to conserve wildlife habitat for future generations.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Assistant Director David L. Elswick who will retire after nearly ten years of distinguished service at NCIS and nearly 40 years of dedicated service to our nation. Mr. Elswick began his federal service in 1977 when he enlisted in the Marine Corps after graduating early from College Park High School. He went on to become a Drill Instructor in the Marine Corps where he held the important responsibility of ``making Marines.'' Throughout his 21- years of service as a U.S. Marine, Mr. Elswick's assignments took him and his family to California, Texas, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and finally, Quantico, Virginia. Mr. Elswick's awards and decorations include: The Presidential Service Badge, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Commendation Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. Before joining NCIS, Mr. Elswick held assignments of increasing responsibility with several government agencies including the Drug Enforcement Agency, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Library of Congress and the Department of Homeland Security. Continuing his career at NCIS, Mr. Elswick held the leadership positions of Deputy Assistant Director for Planning and Evaluation, Assistant Director of the Manpower, Planning and Support Directorate, Chief of Staff, and retiring after serving as the Assistant Director of the NCIS Administration and Logistics Directorate. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the tremendous accomplishments of David L. Elswick. Words alone cannot express our gratitude for his service. May God bless him and his family as they transition into retirement.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mrs. Stacy Horne, a remarkable entrepreneur, businesswoman, public servant, and leader within our Fredericksburg community. In 1992 she started her own Allstate Agency in Fredericksburg, after having worked as a government contractor for several years. She built her business from scratch, becoming one of the largest agencies in the area. Her business grew significantly over the years winning many awards and accolades along the way. In December of 2018 she retired from her business and is focusing on the multiple organizations that she is currently involved with. She is a charter member and past president of the Fredericksburg Area Service League. She has been a member of the Citizen Review Council for the Rappahannock United Way for many years; she is serving her third term as the President of the Board of Directors for the Lloyd F. Moss Free Clinic; is a member of the Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region and is currently serving as Chair of the Board of the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce. Her dedication to the Fredericksburg Area has been clear throughout her life. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the work of Stacy Horne. Words cannot capture the amount of time, energy, and emotion that Stacy has devoted to her business ventures and public service throughout her career. It is our civic duty to thank those who stand as sources of inspiration just as Stacy has exemplified within her life.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Patrick (Pat) Thompson and his service to Virginia' s First District. Pat earned his Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy Studies and Master of Arts in Christian Studies from Duke University in North Carolina. Pat served as the Director of Basketball Operations for Duke Men's Basketball team and continues to remind my staff that Duke is a powerhouse for basketball. Upon graduation from Duke, Pat commissioned into the United States Army Reserves as a military intelligence officer, deploying to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Currently, Pat serves as a Captain in the United States Army Reserves. Pat began as my Military Legislative Assistant in February 2016 and will be concluding his tenure in February 2019. During his three years serving Virginia's First District, Pat has helped me as a staff liaison to the House Armed Services Committee but specifically aiding in my role as Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee Chairman and Readiness Subcommittee Chairman. Pat provided me with guidance as Congress seeks to advance the United States Navy mission of increasing fleet size to 355 ships, promoting an increase in submarines to combat foreign enemies, improving sailor training, and increasing military readiness. Pat exercises the Army values every day with his service before self- mentality shown through his dedication and work ethic. I would like to thank Pat for the fantastic job he's done over the past 3 years. I wish Pat the best as he continues his journey on the other side of the Capitol as National Security Advisor for Senator Roger Wicker. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing Patrick Thompson for his dedicated service to Virginia's First District. May God bless Pat as he continues his career in public service.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Herbert ``Herb'' Lewis White, Jr., who passed away on January 27, 2019. Herbert was 77 years old. Herbert ``Herb'' Lewis White, Jr. was known for his love for his community which kept him active in various organizations. He, along with four others, founded King William Rescue Squad (now King William Volunteer Fire and Rescue) in 1963 and was instrumental in adding the fire department to the organization in 1965. Herb remained an active member in the organization for more than 20 years. White also volunteered with the Mattaponi Volunteer Rescue Squad for several years. He assisted the county with zoning as the chairman of the King William County Board of Zoning Appeals for 36 years and redistricting matters as a member of the redistricting committee for two years. Herb also helped maintain and refresh the county's historical properties as director of the King William County Historical Society board during the renovation of the historical Acquinton Church Project and old jail at the courthouse. Herb was involved with the county Ruritan Club and was active in the construction of the new Ruritan Community Building and Park. Herb held 22 years of perfect attendance with the club. Herb also served as director of the Prevent Blindless Mid-Atlantic organization and chairman of the organization's board for two years, a member of the Joppa Lodge No. 40 AF and AM and a devoted member of Colosse Baptist Church. He additionally gave back to his community as Board Director of King William County Emergency Ministries and worked for many years with its Christmas Wishes program to provide gifts for those less fortunate during the holidays. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in remembrance of Herbert ``Herb'' Lewis White, Jr. Words cannot express our gratitude. May God bless Herbert White and his family, Herb's wife, Marian, and I look forward to seeing his selfless contributions to our community continue to live on in his name.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retirement of Colonel Michael ``Moses'' Thompson. As a member of the United States Air Force, ``Moses,'' his call sign as an F-16 pilot, plans his retirement after 24 years of dutiful service to his country. With his long and successful career in a many number of leadership positions, Colonel Moses Thompson will officially retire in the summer of this year. His career began at the United States Air Force Academy in 1991 where he majored in Political Science and International Relations. He became an F-16 Pilot of the 14th Fighter Squadron, then joined the 79th Fighter Squadron in 1999 as Chief of Standardization and Evaluation. Continuing his love of flight and earnest ability to help others, Moses started instructing young and hopeful pilots, then becoming an Air Liaison and Flight Commander in Fort Benning, Georgia. In 2007 he received an MBA from the University of Maryland University College, and soon after finished another master's degree, this time from the United States Air Force Command and Staff College. After more positions in leadership as a commander in Germany and senior advisor to the Iraqi Ministry of Defense in Baghdad, Moses Thompson is now the Chief of Advanced Weapons Systems at the U.S. Air Force Headquarters Air Combat Command. After a lengthy and dedicated career, Colonel Thompson will now retire with his wife Ali. He has been described as a ``powerful, inspiration, and effective leader,'' known for his integrity and ability to ``make the difficult look easy.'' As previously stated, he has had many titles and many honorable positions, but his selfless action and dedicated service are what keep Americans safe. People like Moses are special and rare, and our country is blessed to have had him serve our people. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the many accomplishments of Colonel Michael ``Moses'' Thompson, honoring his love of country and service he has given to our great nation.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 100th Anniversary of the Commissioners of the Revenue Association of Virginia, a well-reputed organization that has spent the past century providing counseling on tax policy and its application. The Commissioners of Revenue began providing counsel to the Virginia General Assembly, the Commonwealth, her agencies and departments, and local governments on January 1, 1919. Since their formation, they have played an integral role in the history of Virginia, being involved in both the registration of our Commonwealth's first female voters and their support for the elimination of segregation within real and personal property tax assessment books. The Virginia Commissioners of Revenue is made up of 127 individuals who are the chief assessing officers of their localities. They do irreplaceable work assessing property values, issuing business licenses, state income tax filing assistance, as well as further work within their respective areas. They serve as invaluable resources for the citizens of Virginia's First District, and I cannot thank them enough for the hard work they do every day. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the 100th Anniversary of the Commissioners of the Revenue Association of Virginia. I proudly thank the men and women who serve as Virginia's Commissioners for their dedication to our Commonwealth and their work. May God bless the operations of the Commissioners of the Revenue Association of Virginia, and I look forward to seeing their continued excellence.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Scott Marvin Anderson, a compassionate man who will forever be remembered for his deep love of God and his family. Scott's spirit, passion, and drive were second to none, and I am humbled to have known him throughout his life. Scott was born on April 15, 1975 in Minnesota but grew up traveling the country as a part of his parents' Air Force careers. He graduated from Missouri's Warrensburg High School before continuing to Central Missouri State University and Colorado Christian University. Scott spent much of his adult life pursuing one of his greatest passions, golf, by working at several golf courses in Virginia, in addition to others throughout the United States. Scott devoted time sharing his passion by serving as a teacher, coach, and caddie. Scott was known for his strong presence in his community: hosting the Eclectic Music Hour for Allegheny Mountain Radio in Bath County, Virginia for some time, as well as being a dedicated disciple of Bethel Free Will Baptist Church in Woodbridge. He was an active reader of the Bible as well as novels, and truly appreciated God's Word. Beyond his professional and community involvement, Scott will be remembered as a lively and animated man who loved to make other people laugh. I can attest that Scott touched the lives of everyone he met. He was truly a man of God, and I am fortunate to have called Scott a friend. I extend my deepest condolences to his parents, Rich and Ruth; sisters, Brooke and Bria; and grandmother, Sue. Scott's memory will most certainly be cherished by those who knew him. As it says in the book of James, ``Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.'' Madam Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me as we honor the memory of Mr. Scott Marvin Anderson.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in solemn remembrance of the life of Mr. Franklin Dean ``Frank'' Smith, who passed away Wednesday, April 11, 2018. Frank was a lifelong patriot who bravely and proudly served our great Nation as a member of the United States Navy. Not only did he love our country, he was a lover of God, his family, and his community, and he worked his entire life to give back to that which he loved. Before his service, Frank was born and raised in Cherokee, Iowa. He made his way to the East Coast when he received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. Following his graduation in 1956, he attended the Navy Supply Corps School in Athens, Georgia before serving on the destroyer USS Hunt, as well as in Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Frank later returned to his alma mater to spend two tours teaching math to the next generation of naval officers. He served at the Atomic Energy Commission under Admiral Hyman Rickover, the ``father of the nuclear Navy'' at Westinghouse's Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory; as the supply officer on the USS Maury; and as well as at the U.S. Naval Supply Center. His last official duty was with the Office of the Secretary of Defense at the Pentagon. Frank led an accomplished life, also receiving his Master's Degree from Harvard Business School and serving as a long-time member, and even President, of the Fairfax Hunt Club. Additionally, Frank was a founding member of the ``Morattico Waterfront Museum,'' which is the cultural center of activity in Morattico, the small town where he lived during the latter years of his life. Frank is survived by his wife, Carol; children, Scott, Elizabeth, and Alex; stepchildren, Edward, Genie, Vicky, and James; as well as his sixteen grandchildren. His dedication to our Nation and his local community was second to none, and he will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring and recognizing Mr. Franklin Dean Smith for his life of service to our Commonwealth, Nation, and the United States Navy.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I was not present for Roll Call Vote No. 6 on adoption of the rule providing for consideration of H. Res. 6. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 6.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the Eastern Hanover Volunteer Fire Department, a brave group of men and women who every day put their service to the community above self. The Eastern Hanover Volunteer Fire Department was formed in October of 1967 with four charter members who placed second mortgages on their homes to pay for the new station. Since its founding the members of the Eastern Hanover Volunteer Fire Department have operated primarily on donations from the community for many years while also hosting fund raising events including Bingo games, chicken dinners, crab feasts and door-to-door fund drives. Since then, the Eastern Hanover Volunteer Fire Department has experienced significant growth and currently has twenty-four volunteer members and twenty lifetime members. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the accomplishments of the Eastern Hanover Volunteer Fire Department. Words alone cannot express our gratitude. May God bless the operations of the Eastern Hanover Volunteer Fire Department, and I look forward to seeing their excellence for many years into the future.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Dr. Hans Mumm for his government service and significant contributions to the U.S. Military's Information Operations. Dr. Mumm is currently a futures researcher for the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency. In this position, he uses his UAV and robotics expertise to design policy for advanced technologies and studies the consequences of its future uses. This September, Dr. Mumm will be celebrating his 50th birthday. Dr. Mumm began his military career as an enlisted service member. He gained notoriety for his leadership role in ``Operation Iraqi Freedom'' as the officer in charge of the ``Iraqi Regime Playing Cards; CENTCOM's Top 55 Most Wanted List.'' The Defense Intelligence Agency praised this Information Operations mission as one of the most successful campaigns in the agency's history. Dr. Mumm was recognized as one of the ``Ten Outstanding Young Americans'' and awarded the National Defense PAC ``American Patriot Ingenuity A ward'' for his service during ``Operation Iraqi Freedom''. After serving in the enlisted ranks and subsequently as a U.S. Army Captain, Dr. Mumm was medically discharged in 2010, becoming a Wounded Warrior. Following the completion of his active service duties, Dr. Mumm has continued to achieve remarkable feats. In June of 2014, Dr. Mumm was awarded the Exceptional Performance Award from the CIA for his work as a branch chief. In this capacity, he oversaw the development of the Continuous Monitoring Branch (CMB) and transformed this technology into an integral part of the CIA's cyber security framework. Over the course of his career, Dr. Mumm has earned twenty-three personal military ribbons and combat medals. He is also the author of two international bestselling books detailing the leadership challenges and opportunities in the fields of technical investigation and military intelligence. In addition to his current job at the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, Dr. Mumm serves as an adjunct professor for the California University of Pennsylvania (CALU) and the American Military University (AMU). Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing Dr. Hans Mumm for his acts of patriotism that have greatly benefitted our country as he celebrates his 50th birthday.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the service of Mr. Claude Eugene Jordan and his long and honorable career as a firefighter. Mr. Jordan has honored his country with over 30 years of service in civilian firefighting, demonstrating not only skill at his craft, but devotion to our nation. Before his career in firefighting began, Mr. Jordan grew up in Prince George's County, Maryland where he served as a volunteer firefighter with the Accokeek Volunteer Fire Department since 1980. On May 11, 1987, he began his employment with the Dahlgren, Virginia Fire Department. By November 5, 1989, Mr. Jordan was promoted to Supervisory Captain. Over his long career at Dahlgren, Mr. Jordan has served in nearly every position starting as a firefighter and ultimately, on February 5, 2015, he was promoted to his current role of Battalion Chief of Operations for Naval District Washington Fire and Emergency Services at Naval Support Activity South Potomac in Dahlgren, Virginia. Mr. Jordan is married to Tina Jordan, and together they have happily raised five daughters: Brittany Lambdin, Emilie Jordan, Madison Jordan, Kaleigh Jordan, and Makenzie Jordan. Today, we honor Claude Eugene Jordan and his 30 years of exemplary service to the Navy as a civilian firefighter. His hard work, devotion, and strong character will be missed by his fellow firefighters as he transitions to a joyful retirement. His spirit of selflessness is an enduring example to us all as I am told that Mr. Jordan is the type of man who spent his career worrying about his colleagues rather than himself. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing Mr. Claude Eugene Jordan's lifetime of accomplishment and dedication. An admirable illustration of leadership and service, and an outstanding member of our community, may God bless Mr. Jordan and his family as they begin a new chapter in life. On behalf of America's First District, we say thank you.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize those men and women who continue to serve this great Nation with honor--men such as Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) Peter Flynn, United States Navy. For the past year, LCDR Flynn served on my staff as a Congressional Defense Fellow. A 2004 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, LCDR Flynn is a proud Surface Warfare Officer who served onboard USS Port Royal (CG-73), USS George Washington (CVN-73), USS Thach (FFG-43), and USS Mobile Bay (CG-53). During his assignment in my office, LCDR Flynn provided senior-level input for defense, veterans, foreign affairs and intelligence matters. Additionally, he executed his work as a liaison to the constituents of Virginia's First Congressional District with distinction. Furthermore, LCDR Flynn provided exceptional support to me as a staff liaison to the House Armed Services Committee in my role as the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee Chairman. LCDR Flynn dutifully provided me with guidance on what the Navy's path forward should be in critical areas such as training, readiness, and manning. His recent experience in the surface community was invaluable to my work in Congress. As the Co-Chair of the Congressional Shipbuilding Caucus, the Co- Chair of the Navy-Marine Corps Caucus, and the Chairman of the United States Naval Academy's Board of Visitors, I relied on LCDR Flynn to organize quarterly events with government, military, and private sector leaders. These events allowed key decisionmakers to work together for the advancement of our future Naval Officers as well as the construction and repair of the ships on which they will serve. LCDR Flynn also directly contributed to my goal of providing excellent constituent service to the people of the First District. He was responsible for bringing numerous constituent inquiries to a successful conclusion, and he leveraged his personal and operational experience in the Navy to respond to the most challenging inquiries. In addition to his efforts locally, LCDR Flynn took on projects with regional, state, and national implications, demonstrating his ability to view a challenge from many angles and develop innovative solutions. LCDR Flynn's work ethic, duty to mission, and commitment to servant leadership is without equal. I believe that his personal drive to achieve excellence in his work has and will set a very high standard for his peers. I would also like to thank LCDR Flynn for the service and sacrifice he has made, and continues to make, both for our Nation and our great Navy. His impeccable integrity, boundless work ethic, and loyal devotion to duty earned him the respect and admiration of my staff and the First District of Virginia. I have no doubt that LCDR Flynn will continue to serve the Navy honorably and with distinction. I wish Pete and his wife Lucy the best of luck as they continue their journey together as a Navy family. It was an honor and a pleasure having Pete serve on my staff. We all can sleep soundly at night knowing that members of our all-volunteer force like Pete stand ready to defend our country and take the fight to our enemies; far away from their families and the comforts of the United States of America. LCDR Peter Flynn has done a fantastic job. Best of luck and may God bless him, his family, and all the Sailors he is charged with leading.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in commendation of the 50th anniversary of Black Creek Volunteer Fire Department based in Hanover County, Virginia. For the past 50 years, the Black Creek Volunteer Fire Department has proved indispensable to the Hanover community, not only protecting the lives of Hanover residents, but also serving as a unifying and cultural pillar of the community. The Black Creek Volunteer Fire Department was formed in the spring of 1968 with approximately 30 members under the guidance and direction of then-President Douglas Mantlo, and the first Fire Chief, John Peace. Since the volunteer fire unit's founding, its members have served the public with distinction, risking their lives for the sake of others and building community through events like the Hanover Tomato Festival which the fire company started in 1978 and has continued to host every year. The beginnings of the Tomato Festival were modest. Created as a fundraiser for the volunteer fire company as well as a way to celebrate the Hanover community, it featured a small parade, several fire department competitions, tomato judging contests and eleven vendors of food and crafts. This year, celebrating its 40th anniversary, the festival boasted record-breaking attendance, live music, and over 150 vendors. The 50th anniversary of the Black Creek Volunteer Fire Company is a testament to the organization's long-standing commitment to the Hanover community. Whether it is the brave firefighters risking their lives to rescue the people of the area, or the cheerful commitment of the volunteer force to building a sense of neighborliness and fellowship in their community. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the Black Creek Volunteer Fire Company on their 50th anniversary as an organization, and in commending their dedicated efforts of lifesaving service and enthusiastic community-building. An admirable example of leadership and devotion, and an outstanding cornerstone of our community, I commend the Black Creek Volunteer Fire Company on their accomplishments and wish them further success as they continue to serve our community. On behalf of America's First District, we say congratulations.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the service of Deputy Assistant Director Mark Haskett on the occasion of his retirement from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Deputy Assistant Director Haskett has honored our country with 42 years of professional service, first as a United States Marine, and then as a member of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, reflecting his enduring commitment to the wellbeing of our nation. Before his career in public service began, Mr. Haskett grew up in the small town of Union, Michigan and graduated from Constantine High School in 1972. After five years of education and work experience, Mr. Haskett enlisted in the Marine Corps, reporting to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego on August 1, 1977. He served as a field wireman at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, attaining the rank of sergeant before his selection for the Enlisted Commissioning Program. On July 1, 1979, Mr. Haskett was commissioned a second lieutenant, and assigned the military occupation specialty of Combat Engineer Officer. Ultimately reaching the rank of lieutenant colonel, Mr. Haskett held many posts over his 27-year Marine Corps career from Deputy Camp Commander at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan, to Director of Installations and Logistics for the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Barstow, California. During his Headquarters Marine Corps tour, he demonstrated his capability, proving instrumental in fielding the Assault Breacher Vehicle which saw combat service. In 2004, Mr. Haskett retired from the Marine Corps and was hired by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. In his service as Deputy Assistant Director, he administered internal security programs and provided facility and support for special agents and professional staff operating from nearly two hundred facilities. Mr. Haskett proved his determination and leadership as an instrumental NCIS principal involved in the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure decision to move the Agency's headquarters from the Washington Navy Yard to Marine Corps Base Quantico in Stafford County, Virginia in order to collocate it with four other defense investigative partner agencies. The 719,000 square foot Russell-Knox Building was designed and built for this purpose, and the collocation took place during the summer of 2011. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing Deputy Assistant Director Mark Haskett's lifetime of accomplishment and dedication. An admirable example of leadership and service, and a proud and outstanding member of our community, may God bless Mr. Haskett and his family as they begin a new chapter in life. On behalf of America's First District, we say thank you.