Robert Wittman

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I have no other speakers, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. H.R. 5852 would redesignate Weir Farm National Historic Site in Connecticut as a National Historical Park. This 68-acre historic site is the only National Park System unit dedicated to American painting and was established as a unit of the system in 1990. It preserves the home, studio, and grounds of American artist Julian Alden Weir. Weir spent nearly four decades painting, and his artist friends Childe Hassam, John Twachtman, Emil Carlsen, John Singer Sargent, and Albert Pinkham Ryder often joined him there. Together, they created masterpieces of light and color on canvas that came to define American Impressionism. Following his death, Weir's daughter, Dorothy Weir Young, an artist in her own right, and her sculptor husband carried on the artistic legacy at the farm. They were followed by New England painters Sperry and Doris Andrews. Madam Speaker, redesignation of Weir Farm as a national historic park does not affect the laws or policies that govern the area. I urge adoption of this measure, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I have no other speakers, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Karen Klotz's dedicated public service to Virginia's First Congressional District. After over six years of her crucial and impactful work with my office, Karen will be leaving my Stafford District Office at the end of the month. Karen has been a crucial member of the team and of service Virginia's First Congressional District, and she will be missed. Karen has always been available to help a constituent in need regardless of the issue. There has never been a case too difficult that Karen was unable to handle. Karen especially enjoyed researching and solving the more unusual and complicated cases. She has an unparalleled knowledge of the intricacies of navigating federal agencies. She is a thoughtful and compassionate person whose resourcefulness has been an asset to this office. Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me to recognize Karen Klotz and her years of dedicated work for the constituents in Virginia's First District. Karen exemplifies what a true public servant should be, and I wish her the best of luck in her future career and journey.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Joe Schumacher in honor of his 20 years of dedicated public service to Virginia's First Congressional District. Joe began his service to Virginia's First District with my predecessor, Congresswoman Jo Ann Davis, and has been with my office for the entirety of my time in Congress as well. I would like to take this time to recognize Joe's milestone of 20 years with Virginia's First District. Joe is a native Virginian, an Air Force veteran, and a graduate of the University of Virginia. During his time as my District Director, Joe has exemplified the meaning of a ``Servant Leader''. From overseeing the district staff to working with constituents, Joe is always thinking about how to make things better and what more we can do to make it happen. He consistently goes above and beyond to serve constituents and support his fellow staff. His work as the Academy Coordinator has impacted countless young applicants as they begin their careers in service to this nation. Joe's leadership is a shining example of what other District Directors should strive to be. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me to recognize Joe Schumacher for his selfless dedication to Virginia's First District. Joe is a crucial member of our team, and I am forever grateful for his service to our office and to Virginia's First District.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Huffman, Ranking Member Lamborn, and my colleague, Representative Don Beyer for the united effort to make sure that we get this Long Bridge bill passed, to make sure we get a new Long Bridge built, because we know that this is critically important, not just for Virginia, for the District, and for Maryland, but for the Nation because of the critical link point that it is for transportation. As we know, this is in some ways looked at as a regional project, but it is actually more than that. The First District of Virginia, the district that I represent, spans the I-95 corridor in Northern Virginia, which includes one of the worst traffic hot spots in the Nation. That is undeniable. In fact, who knows it better than Members here in Congress what they have to deal with each day in their commute. As a daily commuter myself, I understand the frustration that folks have. This is going to be a critical point for us to be able to use rail as a very efficient means by which to move people and to move commerce throughout the region. Incredibly important. And with passage of this bill, Congress is providing the adequate resources to leverage the Commonwealth's investment to address issues on I-95. It has been a great cooperative agreement between the Commonwealth of Virginia and CSX, who owns the line, to make sure that this gets done. It is really unprecedented in what they have agreed to, and it is not just this line, but it is also all the connectors. So this is a great step to really enhance our rail system, which we know is incredibly important to address transportation issues, not just across the eastern seaboard but really across the Nation. An important component of this in reducing traffic congestion in this region, as I said, is commuter rail. And this bridge spans the Potomac, one of those chokepoints, the major chokepoint here on the eastern seaboard. It is very heavily traveled. There has to be a balance between transit from a commuter standpoint, passenger rail, and freight rail. And many times there is a battle back and forth, and, unfortunately, freight rail prevails in that since freight companies own the rail. We want to make sure that there is balance there, and this provides a balance. And I have to give CSX credit for coming to the table and saying, listen, we understand how incredibly important passenger rail is. Even though that is not within their purview, they do see how important that is. So it is a real testament to a lot of different entities coming together to make this work. And just as Representative Beyer said, the existing bridge is at 98 percent capacity during peak hours, and is used by both VRE, the Virginia Railway Express, Amtrak, and CSX. There is a lot of traffic coming across that bridge; we want to make sure that it can all be accommodated. We know the proposed design for a new track bridge upstream of the current Long Bridge and five additional bridges in Virginia and D.C. provide those connectors and conduits that we need for the region. The bill authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, through the National Park Service director, to convey to and authorize the use by both Virginia and D.C. to be able to utilize a small section of National Park Service land for the construction of the new Long Bridge structure for rail and for an additional, as we have heard, walkable and bikeable pedestrian bridge spanning the Potomac River; incredibly important for the region. The bill will also convey title and interest to Virginia of about 4.4 permanent acres of National Park Service land for the express purpose of this project. The National Park Service will authorize Virginia to temporarily use 8.4 acres of land for the construction which reverts back to the National Park Service at the discretion of the NPS director when the project gets completed. So it is essentially construction use while equipment is there, but then it reverts back to the National Park Service. This project supports projected increases in passenger and freight rail through this corridor, not only now but in the future, and it also enhances economic growth and mobility for the region. It increases the capacity of the rail network for many areas, including the Port of Virginia, which handles 37 percent of goods that move in and out of that port by rail; a great enhancer. The Port of Virginia will need to increase that share to 45 percent by 2040 to handle a threefold increase in shipments. This will help them do that. Building a new Long Bridge doubles the rail capacity at this major bottleneck and is incredibly important for the eastern seaboard but also regionally, for not only Virginia and the District, but also, Maryland; so all incredibly important. The legislation is a significant milestone in transforming passenger and freight rail service along the East Coast and really making a significant step forward in increasing the capacity and opportunity for freight rail. The construction is a project of major national significance in unlocking the gridlock in this region and is incredibly important. Finally, I want to thank again the leadership on the Natural Resources Committee, Chairman Huffman, Ranking Member Lamborn, and my colleague Don Beyer for coleading this effort and also Representative Holmes Norton and the rest of the members of the regional delegations and staff for making this important element work. I also thank Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine for introducing the Senate companion bill over on the Senate side. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Azalea Charities Incorporated, an all volunteer charitable organization located in the First District with a dual mission of providing support to Aid to Wounded Warriors and youth and special need projects. Over the last 22 years Azalea Charities Inc., has provided over 5 million dollars of support to these two mission areas, not only here in the First District, but across the nation as well as internationally. The motto of Azalea Charities is Working Together-Giving Together. Azalea Charities' commitment to the ideals that America stands for, their good citizenship, self-sacrifice and longevity of service are a testament to all that is best about our country. From raising funds by partnering with local corporations and businesses to participating in events such as the Marine Corps Marathon and conducting their hallmark Pro Am Azalea Classic Invitational golf tournament, Azalea Charities dedication to service is to be commended. After two decades, Azalea Charities Inc. is bringing their charitable era to an end. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me in honoring the men and women of Azalea Charities for their service to community over these past 22 years of dedicated selfless service to the citizens of our great country.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Thornberry for yielding. Mr. Speaker, we are in a period of great power competition. These are not just words; this is our new reality. We are seeing Russian, Chinese, Iranian, and North Korean aggression on a global scale. This is why I am confounded by some pundits who believe cutting defense spending at a time of great power competition is in our best interest. Anything less than our negotiated defense topline is capitulating our global standing to an ever-expanding China and Russia hegemony. Additionally, there are some who believe that we should not pass this defense bill this Congress. I want to remind my friends that we are already 68 days late in delivering this defense bill to our Nation. Harmed by our delay is almost $8 billion in troop military construction. Harmed by our inaction is the potential shuttering of our Air Force's and Navy's premier training ranges at Nellis and Fallon. And most importantly, harmed by our continuing neglect are the countless servicemembers who rely on us for reasonable pay and benefits to support our national security. We must do better. As to my Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, our conference is all about great power competition. We authorize an additional Virginia class submarine and eight additional P-8 submarine hunting aircraft to partially offset these great power advances. We pay down future readiness with our continued support of the next-generation bomber and Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine programs. And finally, we procure the long-neglected logistics that are essential to power projection. This is a strong mark to pay down our generation's contribution to our Nation `s future. While I want to acknowledge Chairmen Smith and Courtney's leadership in their efforts as chairman of the full committee and chairman of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, I want to particularly thank Mac Thornberry for his 26 years of Congressional service. Mac, thank you so much for your leadership, for your continued focus and dedication to our Nation and to those brave men and women that serve this Nation. I also thank Congressman Mike Rogers and congratulate him on his new role as the future Republican leader of the House Armed Services Committee. Mike, congratulations. We look forward to the continuation of the legacy of leadership from Mac Thornberry to you. We have all seen the great service and great stewardship provided by both Chairman Thornberry and others, and, my friends, at this moment this is our time. Anything less than action on this bill now is turning our backs and ignores the servicemembers and their families who continue to serve the Nation.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Colonel Dallas Ralph Hanna and to thank him for his service as a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. Colonel Dallas Ralph Hanna (Ret.) was born August 14, 1938 in Salem, Ohio and passed away on November 16, 2020. In 1956, Ralph graduated from Salem High School and went on to get his undergraduate degree from Ohio Wesleyan University. He received his master's degree from Central Michigan University becoming a graduate of Air War College and starting his career in the United States military. Following college, Ralph became a highly decorated career Fighter Pilot in the United States Air Force. He was involved in both the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War and held two FIS command positions, retiring as a Colonel. He was stationed everywhere from Goose Bay, Labrador to Colorado Springs, Colorado to Keflavik, Iceland. Throughout his career, he flew the F-102, the F-4, the F-15, the F-106 and the T- 33 but one of his favorites was the A-1 Skyraider. Ralph became part of the biggest rescue mission in the Vietnam War flying the A-1 by rescuing downed aircrews and controlling the battlefield until additional reinforcements arrived. This mission is one example of the many times Ralph put his life on the line to serve his fellow servicemen and women and the United States of America. I had the pleasure of working with and representing Ralph in Virginia's First District, and he will be missed dearly. Mr. Hanna was a patriot of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States. Ralph is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Lou; his two daughters, Nikki and Jenny; his son-in-law, Glen; and his two granddaughters, Hanna and Marissa. His commitment to the ideals that America stands for, his good citizenship, self-sacrifice and longevity of service are a testimony to all that is best about our country. That is evident throughout his career. Colonel Dallas Ralph Hanna (Ret.) is to be commended for his dedication and commitment to our nation's democratic principles and for the safety of our country. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me in honoring the life of Colonel Dallas Ralph Hanna and thanking him for his years of dedicated service to the United States of America.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize those men and women who continue to serve this great Nation with honor--men such as Commander (CDR) John Arbuckle, United States Navy. For the past year, CDR Arbuckle served on my staff as a Congressional Defense Fellow. A 1998 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, CDR Arbuckle is a proud Naval Aviator who has also earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Kentucky. During his assignment in my office, CDR Arbuckle 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, CDR Arbuckle 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 Ranking Member. CDR Arbuckle 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 command experience was invaluable to my work in Congress. As the Co-Chair of the Congressional Shipbuilding Caucus and the Co- Chair of the Navy-Marine Corps Caucus, I relied on CDR Arbuckle 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. CDR Arbuckle 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, CDR Arbuckle took on projects with regional, state, and national implications, demonstrating his ability to view a challenge from many angles and develop innovative solutions. CDR Arbuckle'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 CDR Arbuckle 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 CDR Arbuckle will continue to serve the Navy honorably and with distinction. I wish John and his wife Allison, children Ella and Jack, the best of luck as they continue their journey together as a Navy family. It was an honor and a pleasure having John serve on my staff. We all can sleep soundly at night knowing that members of our all-volunteer force like John 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. I thank CDR John Arbuckle for a fantastic job. Best of luck to him and may God bless him, his family, and all the Sailors he is charged with leading.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of John Kuhnle, and his dedicated service to Virginia's First District. John joined my Stafford District Office two years ago as a part of the Wounded Warrior Fellowship Program and has been an integral part of our team ever since. John has been a significant member of the District Team in Virginia's First District throughout these past two years. He was dedicated to handling military and veteran casework, and he provided years of knowledge and experience to the office. John never shied away from a challenge, and he would spend hours researching the latest information on veteran affairs and military topics in order to assist constituents. John is a model caseworker. Staff routinely went to John for advice and guidance on military and veteran affairs procedure. John set the bar high, and often went above and beyond to make sure veterans and their families received the information and help they needed. I am confident that constituents in Virginia's First District have been in good hands for the past two years, through the selfless service of John Kuhnle. John's last day with my office is on December 3, 2020 and he will be dearly missed by our entire staff. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me in recognition of John Kuhnle, and I would like to thank John for his service to Virginia's First District.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 75th Anniversary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4639 in Williamsburg, Virginia. On November 16, 1945, 72 Veterans returning from World War II founded Post 4639, and this Post has honorably served the community ever since. Post 4639 is named in honor of Sergeant John Taylor Blacknall, Jr. and 1st Lieutenant Philip Sheridan Chess, Jr. who were both killed in action during World War II. Sergeant Blacknall, who was a soldier in the 116th Regiment of the 29th Infantry Division, was killed in action on June 6, 1944 at Basse-Normandie, France. 1st Lieutenant Chess was killed in action on July 17, 1944 at Villamagna, Volterra, Pisa, Toscana, Italy. I want to express my deepest gratitude to SGT Blacknall and 1LT Chess, and every American hero who has paid the ultimate price to service and protect our nation. The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is comprised of veterans that served in combat zones during our nation's wars who return to continue to serve our nation's communities. Post 4639 has been an All-American Veterans of Foreign Wars Post four times, and an All State Post eleven times. As the United States Representative for Virginia's First District, I am honored to work with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4639. I am particularly inspired by the dedication and hard work of Post 4639, and the commitment to their core values including, but not limited to: promoting patriotism, honoring military service, ensuring the care of Veterans and their families, and serving their communities. The service men and women at Post 4639 are true American heroes and serve as an example of what makes our nation special. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me to recognize the 75th Anniversary of The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4639. I am deeply grateful for the men and women not only who serve at Post 4639, but who dedicate their life to service for our great nation.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Honorable John A. Kelley for his service as a veteran of the U.S. Army, distinguished Federal Service Career of about 31 years, and to the Commonwealth of Virginia. He was a Director of the Northern Neck Soil and Water Conservation District (NNSWCD) representing the County of Northumberland Virginia for 2 terms of 4 years each helping provide oversight through leadership, education, and technical assistance for all resource users. Additionally, he served as the Chair of the Operations Committee for the NNSWCD during these 8 years that brought many improvements to the operation of the District. He also served on the Potomac Watershed Roundtable, a Regional government-citizen forum that promotes collaboration and cooperation among local governments and stakeholder interest groups promoting conservation. He was Chair of the Potomac Council for several years. It serves as a collaborative body promoting and facilitating water quality management practices necessary to achieve nonpoint source pollutions reductions in the Potomac River Watershed. He served almost 7.5 years on the Commonwealth Board for Waste Management Facility Operators, the last 3 as Chair. His outstanding leadership brought significant improvements and efficiencies to the functioning of the Board and operations. Mr. Kelley served on the Board of Trustees of the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra for many years. He was the Operations Committee head during this time, and helped improve operations of the organization. At the Federal level, he served as the Director of Administration for the United States Commission of the Bicentennial of the U.S. Constitution. His efforts helped make the 200th anniversary of our constitution a magnificent success. He was also the Executive Director of the U.S. Office of Special Council, improving the management processes and case tracking systems. While working for the U.S. Army Assistant Secretary for Installations and Environment, he worked on the housing privatization programs to provide soldiers globally with better base housing. He also worked on the reorganization of the Headquarters of the U.S. Army. His management capabilities are evident throughout his career. Mr. Kelley is a patriot of the First Congressional District, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the United States. Without the full support of his loving wife, Helene, it would be impossible for him to achieve his accomplishments. For his service to the nation, Madam Speaker, today it is my honor to recognize the Honorable John A. Kelley.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, it is with deep sadness but great respect that I take this time to remember Mr. Charles W. Reeder, Jr., who passed away on September 7, 2020, at the age of 69. Mr. Reeder's love for his family and dedication to his community is noteworthy and admirable. While he will be truly missed by his family and friends, the impact he has had on his community will live on for generations to come. Mr. Reeder received a Master of Divinity from Virginia Theological Seminary and he later completed a Doctor of Ministry from Ashland Seminary and worked for Food for the Poor, raising funds for third world countries. During 40 years of ministry, he served churches in Ohio, Illinois, Washington, and Colorado. He also taught classes at several college venues as well as prisons. Teaching and preaching were his passions, and he excelled at both. He had a love for theology and physics, remodeling and good music. His life was filled with compassion, and he lived to serve the needs of others. His greatest loves, however, were his wife, Pat, his two daughters, and his three precious grandsons. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask you to rise with me in honor of Mr. Charles Reeder, Jr. He will be profoundly missed, but his memory lives on in his family.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 3051, America's Conservation Enhancement Act. It is an incredible honor to manage this suspension debate for the ACE Act, arguably one of the most important pieces of environmental legislation for the Chesapeake Bay, national wetlands, and fish habitat in years. This bipartisan package of conservation and resource protection policies will have tremendous benefits for both our environment and individuals for years to come. The ACE Act is a once-in-a-generation advancement to clean up the Chesapeake Bay and protect and conserve natural resources across America. The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure, and the ACE Act provides additional resources and extends critical conservation programs that preserve wetlands, reduce pollution, and increase recreational opportunities both in the Commonwealth of Virginia and across our great United States. Title I of this bill includes important reauthorizations for programs such as the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Establishment Act, the Chesapeake Bay Program, the Chesapeake Bay Initiative Act of 1998. These are all very important programs, not only to the folks back home in my district, but to all Americans who wish to have clean air to breathe, clean water to drink, and an overall healthier environment where our fish and wildlife populations are sustainable and thriving. This bill also includes initiatives important to sportsmen, such as the establishment of a chronic wasting disease task force with the goal of researching this dangerous threat to white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk populations, and moose populations. This bill also has some practical solutions to offer farmers and ranchers vital tools to help manage their herds and protect them from predation. Title II is a provision I am especially proud of and glad that we are advancing through the House and on to the President's desk for his signature. This includes the National Fish Habitat Conservation Through Partnerships provision, a bill that I championed. This title establishes a national fish habitat board that supports a successful public-private partnership to restore fish habitat. I would like to thank the ranking member of the Natural Resources Committee, Rob Bishop, and the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife, Tom McClintock. I would also like to thank all of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle for their ceaseless efforts and commitment to making sure we do everything we can to conserve, protect, and enhance the resources that we are in charge of taking care of. I look forward to continuing to advance other important provisions, but this bill, hopefully, will be on its way to the President's desk. As co-chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force, I would specifically like to acknowledge my friends and colleagues in the bay delegation who have labored so hard for so long to help clean up our great Chesapeake Bay. Representative Bobby Scott, Representative John Sarbanes, and Representative Andy Harris and I are proud to see the passage of these important provisions to protect the Chesapeake Bay. Mr. Speaker, the American Conservation Enhancement Act does much to advance our bipartisan goals of conserving fish and wildlife populations and preserving the environment for the enjoyment of untold future generations of Americans. The ACE Act will also give Americans increased opportunities to get out and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife in our country, from the Gulf Coast to the Great Lakes, from Puget Sound to the Chesapeake Bay. I urge adoption of the measure, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I would like to reflect upon the words of Representative Luria. This really is a true bipartisan bill. I would like to thank not just the colleagues on the other side of the aisle but those colleagues from all of our States, Representative Luria, the rest of the Virginia delegation. As I talked about the folks from the Chesapeake Bay delegation, everybody has an interest in this bill. It is an extraordinary effort across many, many different areas where there is common interest, and it is a great example of what we can get done when we are willing to focus on things we have in common rather than those places where we have differences. The one thing we do have in common is the great treasures that have been bestowed upon us by our Creator and our obligation, as humanity, to protect and to enhance those resources, not only now, but for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time, and I will close quickly. I would like to thank my colleague, Representative Dingell, for all of her efforts. Obviously, the Natural Resources Committee has a lot of input on this. But, again, this is a great example of what we can all do when we look at those things that we have in common. We have been bestowed these fantastic natural resources, gifts from our Creator. We have an obligation to protect them. And what we see today is that common idea of that obligation and how we fulfill that obligation. Today really is one of those days where we should remember historically about all the different elements that have come together. We know it is an arduous path for many of these pieces of legislation, but today should really be a reminder of what we can do when we look at those things we have in common, when we look at our responsibilities and obligations to this Nation and to the treasures that we have here before us. Today is indeed a great day. I urge my colleagues to support this bill. It truly is an indication of what makes this Nation great. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 5068, which would authorize the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation to establish a commemorative work in Washington, D.C., to recognize the commitment and service represented by women who worked on the home front during World War II. These 19 million American women stepped up to support their Nation during America's involvement in World War II. Women worked in a huge variety of critical professional roles, including code breakers, aircraft testing pilots and trainers, welders, steamfitters, telegraph operators, radio and electrical engineers, crane operators, surveyors, assembly line workers, as they replaced men who were heading off to war. Some 300,000 Virginians served in uniform and more than 11,000 never returned home. For many women, the war provided increased opportunities to serve their community, their Nation, and to aid in the war effort. The work women did during World War II can never be fully measured, and their impact on our national welfare for the decades that followed should forever be enshrined in our national story. The beneficial contribution women made during the war were felt locally here in Virginia, as well as across the Nation. For example, the Richmond Engineering Company employed women welders who made bomb heads. At Newport News shipyard, women worked as crane operators, electricians, mechanics, and more, as critical members of the Defense production workforce. In recent years, Congress also has established the Rosie the Riveter National Historical Park in California to further highlight the work of these incredible patriots during the war. Authorizing this commemorative work in our Nation's capital is another fitting tribute to the brave, strong, multitalented, intelligent women who helped us win the war. Mr. Speaker, I urge adoption of the measure, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Walden).

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in reluctant support of S. 3758. While this bill makes important technical corrections that will provide relief to the Klamath Basin irrigators which have been hard hit by drought, it also includes a provision that perpetuates a 75-year mistake. In 1946, the Bureau of Reclamation entered into contracts with two irrigation entities in Montana to provide project use power, better known as PUP. Normally, these subsidized power rates are reserved for Federal projects. However, for reasons lost to history, these two entities-- which are not part of any Federal project, and in fact, one is a private company--have been able to obtain and renew their project use power or PUP contracts. Recently, the Bureau of Reclamation realized it lacked the authority to provide these two entities PUP rates and has decided to let these contracts expire December 31, 2020. It is extremely concerning that it took the Bureau of Reclamation 75 years to realize it made a mistake, which makes this situation quite unique. This unfortunate mistake by bureaucrats left more than 130 family farms in limbo, uncertain if they will be able to afford to maintain their farmland after January 1, 2021. While we are not opposing this fix today, the committee wants to be clear that this is a one-off, unique situation. We do not see this as a pathway or precedent for other irrigation districts to follow. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record two legal opinions from the Department of the Interior, Office of the Solicitor, which indicate that the department did not have the legal authority to enter into PUP contracts with the two Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program entities because there is no Federal nexus. U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of the Solicitor, Billings, MT, March 10, 2014. Memorandum To: Michael J. Ryan, Regional Director, Bureau of Reclamation, Great Plains Region, Billings, Attn: GP-4100 (Fern Thompson) From: Karan L. Dunnigan, Field Solicitor, Office of the Solicitor, Rocky Mountain Region (Billings) Subject: Authority to Enter Into a Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program (P-SMBP) Project Use Power (PUP) Contract with Kinsey Irrigation Company (Company) I. Question In an October 31, 2013 memorandum, you asked: (1) whether the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) had or has the authority to enter into a PUP contract with the Company; (2) if not, whether Reclamation should continue to honor its current contract with the Company until the contract expires; and (3) if so, if Reclamation should approve the Company's request for an increased contract rate of delivery. II. Brief Answer Reclamation does not and did not have the authority to enter into a PUP contract with the Company, because the United States has had no interest in the unit and there has been no federal nexus with the unit since the title transfer of the Kinsey facilities in the 1940's. Because Reclamation has no authority to provide PUP to the Company, Reclamation should seek to terminate the provision of PUP to Kinsey as soon as is practical. And any increased deliveries to the Company should not be at a PUP rate. III. Background The Farm Security Administration constructed the Kinsey project in 1937. The project was referenced in Senate Document 191, 78th Congress, 2nd Session, 1944, and thus appears to have been contemplated to be (and indeed was briefly) a P-SMBP unit. However, in 1945 the Company purchased the federally-owned Kinsey project facilities from the United States, rendering the Kinsey project entirely private. The Kinsey project has no other federal nexus. In 1946, Reclamation entered into a power contract with the Company, providing power at the PUP rate of 2.5 mills per kilowatt-hour. Reclamation's regional office raised concerns about providing PUP power to a private district on several occasions, but for reasons lost to history, the Commissioner of Reclamation's office instructed the region to continue providing PUP power to the district, and at the original 2.5 mill rate. The contract has been renewed and extended over the years, and currently terminates on December 31, 2020. The Kinsey project does appear in the 1963 ``Report on Financial Position, Missouri River Basin Project'' (1963 Report) as a project entitled to PUP. IV. Analysis Pursuant to Reclamation Law and Policy, PUP is available only where it has been specifically authorized by Congress and, unless Congress specifically provides otherwise, only to Reclamation projects. Here, while the Kinsey project was initially a federal project, and briefly an authorized unit of the P-SMBP, title transfer to the Company divested the Kinsey project of its status as an authorized P-SMPB unit and rendered it entirely private. Accordingly, the Company is not entitled to PUP. A. Project Pumping Power Authority to produce and supply PUP is implied in the Town Sites and Power Development Act of 1906 (Act of April 16, 1906, ch. 1631, 34 Stat. 116). PUP is further contemplated under the Reclamation Project Act of 1939, at section 9(c), which provides that: Any sale of electric power . . . made by the Secretary in connection with the operation of any project or division of a project, shall be for such periods, not to exceed forty years, and at such rates as in his judgment will produce power revenues at least sufficient to cover an appropriate share of the construction investment at not less than 3 per center per annum . . . Thus, under the 1939 Act, PUP must also be ``in connection with the operation of any project or division of a project.'' And under further Reclamation law and policy, PUP is only available to Reclamation projects for which PUP was explicitly authorized. The Reclamation Act of 1902 provides that ``the title to and the management and operation of the reservoirs and the works necessary for their protection and operation shall remain in the Government until otherwise provided by Congress.'' Sec. 6. So, without further authorization from Congress, Reclamation projects must be owned by the United States. The Reclamation Manual at FAC 04-06 provides that ``[p]roject use power is used to meet the electrical service requirements of a Reclamation project pursuant to congressional authorization.'' Further, the Reclamation Manual defines Reclamation Project as ``those facilities or features of a project constructed/developed/or transferred to Reclamation under the authority of Federal Reclamation law (or the Water Conservation and Utilization Act) for which ownership is retained by the United States, unless otherwise authorized by Congress.'' As with the 1902 and 1939 Acts, under the Reclamation Manual project use power can only be provided to project facilities owned by the United States unless Congress authorizes otherwise. The Flood Control Act of 1944 authorized the P-SMBP. Subsection (a) of Section 9 of that Act approved the general comprehensive plans set forth in H.D. 475 and S.D. 191, 78th Congress 2nd Session. S.D. 191, at page 22, provides: In the plan proposed, irrigation pumping with its incidental power requirements plays a large part. The cost of such power will be an important element in the irrigators' annual expenses, and must be low if success is to be achieved. Experience and study indicate that the cost per kilowatt-hour should not exceed 2\1/2\ mills for energy delivered to major project pumping plants. (The current PUP rate is of course much higher than the rate contemplated in 1944, but still a fraction of the market rate.) The Kinsey project was a federal irrigation project, transferred to Reclamation as a part of the Flood Control Act of 1944. Therefore, the Kinsey project was briefly a P-SMPB unit. However, the Kinsey project ceased to be a Reclamation project when the Company bought it two years later. Without specific Congressional authority, facilities transferred by title transfer are no longer able to receive PUP because they are no longer federal projects. B. The 1963 Report Although the 1963 Report indicates in its exhibits that the Kinsey project receives PUP, we interpret this inclusion as an oversight resulting from to the fact that the Kinsey project was initially a P-SMBP unit and had continued to receive PUP. Congress adopted the ``1963 Report'' by passing .the 1965 Garrison Diversion Unit legislation: In addition to reauthorizing the initial stage of the Garrison diversion unit, the approval of this legislation will indicate acceptance by the Congress of the Department's recommendations with respect to the overall financial position of the Missouri River Basin project. About 3 years ago, the committee requested the Department of the Interior to study ways and means of placing the Missouri River Basin project in a sound financial position and to report its findings and recommendations to the Congress. A ``sound financial position'' was interpreted to mean that commercial power and municipal and industrial water investments would be repaid with interest in not to exceed 50 years and that irrigation investments would be repaid within 50 years plus any authorized development period, including that portion to be repaid from power revenues. H.R. Rept. No. 282, 89th Cong., 1st Sess. 8 (1965). Identical language appeared in the 1964 report, H.R. Rept. No. 1606, 88th Cong., 2d Sess. 8 (1964), and the Senate committee report contained a similar acknowledgement, S. Rept. No. 470 (on S. 34). 89th Cong, 1st Sess. 4 (1965). Thus, as with our recent memorandum on PUP at Frenchman- Cambridge Unit, we interpret the presence or absence of a unit in the 1963 Report as evidence of Congress's intent for that unit. But even where the Kinsey project's inclusion in the report is contrary evidence, it is not sufficient to indicate clear Congressional intent to provide PUP to a project that is otherwise completely private and without a federal nexus . C. The Current Contract with the Company The provision of power to the Company at a PUP rate has never been authorized, so Reclamation should seek to raise the rate or terminate the current contract as soon as it is practical. The contract contains a ``Modification of Rates'' provision allowing for the United States to promulgate a new rate schedule for the contract (General Power Contract Provisions, para. F). The provision sets forth the procedure by which the United States gives notice to the Company of a new rate schedule, and the Company has the option to terminate its contract instead of accepting the new rate. V. Conclusion Without clear Congressional intent to the contrary, privately owned facilities are not eligible to receive PUP. The Kinsey project was transferred to the Company in 1946, and has been private for 68 years. The project has no other federal nexus. Reclamation has no authority to provide power to the Company at PUP rates. Reclamation should stop doing so as soon as it is practical. If you have any questions, please contact Bryan Wilson in this office.

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I commend Congressman Greg Walden for his sponsorship of the House companion bill, H.R. 7116, that makes the needed noncontroversial technical corrections to the Klamath Basin Water Supply Act so that all the benefits can be accessed. Congressman Gianforte is also supporting his constituents as the House sponsor of H.R. 3471, which mirrors Montana's provisions that are contained within S. 3758. Again, I thank all my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who worked hard to resolve this issue so that folks in these regions can have certainty about the water that they so desperately need. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Centennial of Pitney Bowes. In 1920, Arthur Pitney and Walter Bowes put their ideas together to create a business, Pitney Bowes. Arthur being the inventor and Walter being the promoter, together they created the Pitney Bowes Postage Meter and it was officially approved on September 1st by Congress to be used by the United States Postal Service. Twenty years later during World War II, a Pitney Bowes plant in Connecticut was almost entirely ran by women. Following the war, nearly half of the men employed were World War II veterans. As the years passed, the company went on to further create inventions, boost productivity, drive precision, and decrease cost of mailing. Pitney Bowes is a living legacy of always innovating, adapting, and striving together to do better. Since day one, they founded Pitney Bowes on innovation and powering commerce, seeking to do the right thing, the right way for customers, their people, and the world around us. Today, one hundred years later, they still abide by the same values that they began on. Technology is ever changing and evolving, it is remarkable to see the Pitney Bowes company flourish within this industry. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask you to rise with me in celebration of the Centennial of Pitney Bowes. One hundred years is a monumental milestone. I want to thank Pitney Bowes for their dedication, commitment, and services to the people of Virginia's First District and to Americans across the nation.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Centennial of Disabled American Veterans (DAV) on September 25, 2020. I want to celebrate and commend DAV for reaching a momentous milestone: 100 years of virtuous and important work. The honorable undertakings of DAV do not go unrecognized. DAV Founder Robert Marx saw a gaping hole in society that veterans continued to fall through: underfunded medical care and services. This led him to create the non-profit, empowering veterans to live with respect, dignity, and with access to the support they deserve. Now, with over 1,000 chapters, DAV continues to make strides for veterans and their families. DAV has supported numerous veterans from giving them rides to medical appointments to assisting with benefit claims to connecting veterans with meaningful employment by hosting job fairs. On behalf of myself and the veterans in our region, I thank you for your continued support and efforts to ensure our veterans get to experience the American dream they fought to protect. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing the centennial of Disabled American Veterans. I thank DAV, for an outstanding first 100 years, and let us look forward to another prosperous 100 years.