Robert Wittman

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Virginia Tech's Coach Frank Beamer, who after 29 years, will retire at the end of this season as a football coach, mentor, friend and role model on and off the field. Beamer was a three-year starting cornerback for the Hokies and after taking over as the Hokies' head coach in 1987, he built the football program at his alma mater into a national power. Coach Beamer stands as the winningest active Division I football coach and the sixth all time with 279 career wins. During his 29 years at Virginia Tech, he has 237 victories and has guided the Hokies to four ACC titles, three Big East championships, six appearances in BCS bowl games, and has posted 13 seasons with 10 or more wins. At the end of this month, Virginia Tech will play in a bowl game for the 23rd consecutive year under Beamer's lead, the longest current streak in college football recognized by the NCAA. Beamer has been the face of the Hokie football team and the Virginia Tech community as a whole for so many years. He will certainly be missed. Thank you, Coach Beamer, for all that you have contributed to Virginia Tech, Blacksburg and the game of college football.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize those men and women who have served this great Nation with honor, men such as Commander Chad C. Schumacher, United States Navy. For the past year, Commander Schumacher, a proud naval aviator and graduate of the United States Naval Academy, served on my staff as a Congressional Defense Fellow. During his assignment, he served as a senior member of my staff responsible for defense, veterans, foreign affairs and intelligence matters. Commander Schumacher executed his work as a liaison to the constituents of the First District and the numerous defense installations in the First District with distinction. Furthermore, he provided exceptional support to me as my staff liaison to the House Armed Services Committee in my role as a Subcommittee Chairman and as the Co-Chair of the Congressional Shipbuilding Caucus. Commander Schumacher 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 was able to leverage his personal and operational experience to respond to the most challenging inquiries. In addition to his efforts on behalf of the First District, Commander Schumacher took on projects with regional, state and national implications, demonstrating his ability to view a challenge from many angles and develop innovative solutions often requiring collaboration across many levels of government. Commander Schumacher'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 Commander Schumacher for the service and sacrifice he has made, and continues to make, for our Nation and our great Navy. His keen sense of honor, impeccable integrity, boundless work ethic, humor and loyal devotion to duty earned him the respect and admiration of my staff and the First District of Virginia. As an F-18 Hornet pilot with 2000 flight hours and 400 arrested landings, Commander Schumacher completed multiple deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and served as an instructor at the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN). Commander Schumacher is headed to the Pentagon where he will work in Legislative Affairs for U.S. Northern Command. I have no doubt that Commander Schumacher will continue to serve the Navy honorably and with distinction. I wish him the best of luck as he continues his Naval career. It was an honor and a pleasure having him serve on my staff. We all can sleep soundly at night knowing that men and women like Commander Chad Schumacher are members of our all-volunteer force and they 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. Commander Schumacher, thank you. Best wishes to you and God bless you, your family, and all the men and women in uniform. Fair winds and following seas.--and GO NAVY BEAT ARMY.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I missed a series of recorded votes on November 30, 2015. Had I been present, I would have voted ``YEA'' on roll call vote Number 644 and roll call vote Number 645.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Virginia Tech's Coach Frank Beamer, who, after 29 years, will retire at the end of this season as a football coach, mentor, friend, and role model on and off the field. Coach Beamer was a 3-year starting cornerback for the Hokies, and after taking over as the Hokies' head coach in 1987, he built the football program at his alma mater into a national power. Coach Beamer stands as the winningest active Division I football coach and the sixth all-time, with 279 career wins. Mr. Speaker, during his 29 years at Virginia Tech, he has 237 victories and has guided the Hokies to four ACC titles, 3 Big East championships, 6 appearances in BCS bowl games, and has posted 13 seasons with 10 or more wins. At the end of this month, Virginia Tech will play in a bowl game for the 23rd consecutive year under Beamer's lead, the longest current streak in college football recognized by the NCAA. Beamer has been the face of the Hokie football team and the Virginia Tech community as a whole for many years, and he will certainly be missed. Thank you, Coach Beamer, for all that you have contributed to Virginia Tech, to Blacksburg, and to the game of college football.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the following Lifetime Members of the Richmond County Volunteer Fire Department: Randy Passagaluppi (22 years), Gary Hayes (23 years), Timmy Brann (25 years), Ray Hinson (25 years), Wayne Mothershead (26 years), Leslie Clark (28 years), Ronnie Mundie (37 years), Fred W. Mothershead (44 years), J.D. Jr. Dawson (45 years), Chris Sanders (45 years), and Webster Sanders (64 years). I thank them for their lifelong service to their community and insuring the safety of Richmond County.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to submit a Veterans Day speech written and delivered by Mr. Don Hirst to American Legion Post 117 on Veterans Day 2015. [From American Legion Post 117 Veterans Day Ceremony, Nov. 11, 2015] American Legion Post 117 Veterans Day Ceremony (By Don Hirst) Good morning and thank you all for coming to Post 117's Veterans Day Event. Let me start of by asking for a show of hands, to include family members and surviving spouses. Please leave them up until I'm finished with a few brief questions, if you can. How many of you are veterans of World War II? Of the Korean War? The Cold War? Vietnam? Grenada, Panama or similar actions? Desert Storm? Afghanistan? Iraq? Deployments to support any of those action or similar ones I've overlooked? Now look around the room. Quite a lot of hands, right? Okay, please put them down and relax while I make a few observations and comments. Everyone who raised a hand is a veteran, or a significant part of a veteran's family. Some of you may even be both. Today is Veterans Day, and that's why we're gathered here and in tens of thousands of other places across the nation and the world: to mark an important date in America's history. For us, it's a day that represents a whole lot more than big sales at the supermarket, shopping mall or car dealerships. Yeah, we all may take part in some of that, but we know to the core of our being that it's intended to honor those who served the nation and served it well. You're all part of that select group. Many of you bear scars, physical or otherwise, as a result of your service. So what does it mean to be a veteran? In the minds of a lot of folks, a veteran is someone whose service is over, tour of duty ended. That's a long way from the truth. Especially in today's world, with all of the dangers and challenges that seem to be popping up everywhere. Kind of like a grim version of Whack-a-Mole. As I sat writing this a couple of days ago, the news reports once again trumpeted more acts of violence against the nation's citizens. Two American trainers--civilians but working to help train police in Jordan, a U.S. ally headed by a courageous leader with extensive military experience and service--were gunned down in an apparent blue-on-blue attack. They were murdered by a Jordanian officer. This wasn't the first such case we've encountered in recent years and in different locations. It won't be the last, either. You can take that to the bank. The list of incidents, both overseas and, increasingly, at home here in the United States, grows with each flip of the calendar page. Unless you're totally ignorant, oblivious or intellectually challenged--or a combination of all three--you sense with a growing feeling of foreboding that we are at war. So what do we do about it? This isn't the venue to get into partisan political discussions, something we're not supposed to do at official events since we're part of the American Legion and thus have nonprofit, tax-exempt status. We Legion members each have our own political beliefs, but we're a nonpartisan organization. We do our politicking informally, over a beer, and at the local precinct ballot box each election day. As an aside, I hope all of you voted on November 3 and repeat that civic duty in the coming year. Voting is a precious right. That right was earned by blood sacrifices of the past, and is kept alive by the sacrifices that will come. But let's get back to the ``what do we do about it?'' part. The situation is serious--and getting worse. The historian in me says that we arguably haven't been in such perilous times since the 1930s. Back then we saw economic chaos, the rise of Nazi Germany, Japanese militarism and a continued avoidance of taking action by the great democracies of the world. Finally, of course, we did act, winning a stunning, hard fought victory against the forces of pure evil. We won, and that's a fact beyond dispute. But we paid a much higher price for that victory by not acting sooner, when decisive action may well have saved millions from a horrible fate. I think we're at such a crossroads today. Even a casual glance at the headlines shows how dangerous it is right now. And it's likely to get worse before it's over. As the horizon grows darker, I believe it's a good idea to take stock of where we are, what assets we have and what we can do about it. I'm not advocating forming a militia of disgruntled, angry veterans or vigilante groups. But I am strongly urging us as free citizens, neighbors in the vibrant, close-knit communities of the Northern Neck, to stand up and stand together so that we are better prepared for what may come. It's like insurance. You might not need it right this second, but when you do, it's too late to buy a policy after the flood waters reach the second floor of your home or the volunteer fire department battles the blaze threatening your house. Now let me ask for one more show of hands. Are there any members of our local government, our sheriff's department or other similar agencies here today? Please raise your hands. And if there aren't any hands up, I expect that more than one person here today is acquainted with such folks and can help spread the word. You saw a few minutes ago how many people raised their hands when I asked about prior military service. They're veterans. They're experienced. They've been in the tough places, done the tough jobs. And they're an extremely valuable asset that shouldn't be overlooked in future times of need. Those times could be months or years from now--or maybe never come. Or they could be this afternoon or tomorrow. Think Pearl Harbor. And 9-11. So I urge the local authorities to reach out, to connect with us, the veterans who are your friends and neighbors. We're here, we're near--and we're something you should put in the emergency kit. This T-shirt I ordered [holds up T-shirt in front of the audience] came in the mail just in time for Veterans Day. Rather than wear it under my shirt, I wanted to use it to reinforce my point. I don't know if you all can see it, but the inscription on the back says,

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask Congress to vote in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY16. I am proud that this conference report takes significant steps towards rebuilding our military and readiness. We prioritize training for our troops and maintenance and modernization of our equipment and technology. This NDAA is critical to carry out the military missions of this Nation effectively and successfully in an increasingly dangerous world. Recently, former Secretary of State Dr. Henry Kissinger proclaimed: ``The United States has not faced a more diverse and complex array of crises since the end of the Second World War.'' This statement holds true today as we combat ISIS in the Middle East, as Russia again tests our commitment to global leadership, and as China continues to increase its defense spending to record levels. Mr. Speaker, Congress has a constitutional duty of providing for the common defense of our Nation. If Congress and the President fail to act on the NDAA, we forgo our constitutional duty, and we weaken the security of our Nation and ability to confront crises that occur around the globe. It is also important to point out that this is not the time to play political games with our national security or to hold hostage funding and authorization for the military for political gain. Our Nation and our men and women in the military deserve better, and they deserve the proper support that Congress is under obligation to provide. As we have heard through testimony from our military leaders before the committee, our military is approaching the ragged edge of being able to execute our Nation's defense strategy. By not passing this NDAA, or by allowing sequestration to continue to devastate our Nation's military readiness, we place ourselves in a position where we will be unable to defend against the threats we face today and in the future. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and vote in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act of FY16.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise in support today of the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. I would like to thank the chairman and Mr. Franks for their leadership on this issue. This issue is very personal to me. My mother chose life, and I was adopted as a newborn. When a baby is born alive after an abortion, healthcare professionals only have seconds to react. These children deserve the same level of commitment and care as a child facing any other medical emergency. This bill holds healthcare professionals accountable for making the health and well-being of a baby who survives an abortion their first priority and for making every effort to provide the resources needed to keep that child alive. This bill should not divide us. It is about saving lives. We all talk about giving voice to the most vulnerable children in our communities and to the elderly with disabilities. Who is more vulnerable than a child whose life begins just as someone tries to end it? My mother gave me the gift of life, and I believe every child should receive that same gift. This is not about the ``Wizard of Oz'' strategy the other side wants to portray and that doesn't pay any attention to the man behind the curtain. This is about the true sense of protecting life. I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this bill.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and thank Jacqy Ramsey, for his service to our nation in the United States Air Force. Jacqy enlisted in the Air Force in May 1966 and reported for Basic Military Training (BMT) at Lackland AFB, TX. Following BMT, he completed Pneudraulic Repairman Course and was the Honor Graduate of Aircraft Pneudraulic Repair Tech School. In August 1966 he reported to 36th Troop Carrier Squadron (TAC) at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia. Senior Airman Ramsey distinguished himself amongst his peers as a Pneudraulics Repairman in the 36 TAC. On 13 February 1967, en route to Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina, the C-130 on which Ramsey was a passenger experienced landing gear failure when the left main landing gear failed to extend. All efforts by the flight and maintenance crews failed to extend the landing gear. He discerned the problem, left his seat, and went to the aid of the flight crew. Due to his experience and knowledge of the gear system, he skillfully released the emergency release handle, lowered the landing gear, and locked it in place. His quick thinking and knowledge allowed the aircraft to make a safe landing. His personal awards include the National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal. After receiving an Honorable Discharge from the United States Air Force in May 1972, Senior Airman Ramsey went on to work for IBM for 30 years. A handyman and inventor, Senior Airman Ramsey built his own home, is skilled in construction, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. He also designed and built from scratch a wood boiler system that heats and provides hot water for his home. To fuel it, he built a large wood splitter that can split logs up to 2 feet in diameter. As a grandfather, he taught his grandsons how to work and drive heavy equipment. Jacqy excelled while in the Air Force as well as during his career at IBM and I am honored to pay tribute to this Veteran. I know that Jacqy's wife, Arlene; his daughters Amy Manuel, 44; Emilee Haskins, 42; Jackie Sherer, 40; and Bridget Sibley, 40; his grandchildren; Miranda Updegraft, 22; Chandler Manuel, 19; Coleman Manuel, 18; Conner Manuel, 16; Cymon Manuel, 13; Merrit Manuel, 10; Nathanael Haskins, 18; Samuel Haskins, 14; Emma Haskins, 12; Meredith Haskins, 11; Eli Haskins, 6; Ben Haskins, 3; Zachary Sherer, 15; Moriah Sherer, 13; Xander Sherer, 9; Logan Sibley, 15; and Raegan Sibley, 4; and great-grandson Emmett Updegraft, 1, are all proud of Jacqy. I am thankful and proud of all of our Veterans like Jacqy who have selflessly given so much in service to our great nation.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am disappointed that Congress plans to adjourn for August recess without addressing critical issues important to the American people. I appreciate that district work periods allow Members to visit with folks back in their community, but it is now becoming a habit for Congress to abandon a long ``to do'' list in the rush to get out of town. This August is no exception. Unfortunately, Congress has not done its job. It has not completed the work of the people; including budgeting and critical national security legislation. Our constituents expect us to stay and finish the job. Let's clear our schedules and--in the strongest possible terms-- request the Speaker to call Congress back to Washington for the month of August and to finish the business of the people. As I have said in previous years on the eve of August recess, I'm prepared to stay in Washington as long as it takes. These issues are too important to delay.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I missed a recorded vote on July 10, 2015. Had I been present, I would have voted ``NO'' on roll call vote No. 433, H.R. 6, the 21st Century Cures Act.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reflect on the life of Charles Ryland Revere, known by most as ``Charlie,'' a native son and lifelong resident of Middlesex County in Virginia's First District. It was a privilege to be among the hundreds upon hundreds of admiring friends who joined Charlie's family in celebrating his life on June 7, 2015, in what many congregants noted to be perhaps the largest funeral gathering in the history of Lower United Methodist Church, a sanctuary that has stood across four centuries in Hartfield. As Charlie's eulogist noted, his lifelong contributions to his family, his community, and his beloved church were ``incalculable.'' Another of Charlie's grateful friends observed, ``Charlie's passion for life and his Christian compassion for others were beyond measure.'' Charlie's dedication to humbly serving, uplifting, and caring for others took many forms--Army officer, county supervisor, hospital board chair, youth league booster, free health clinic advocate, volunteer firefighter, bank board member, farmer, employer, and church leader, to name a few. His commitment to the professional men and women of Revere Gas touched thousands of families over the more than 50 years of operation. Charlie did not allow tragedy or any adversity to deter his loving embrace of life and all those who were blessed to know him. As a person of extraordinary humor yet humility, Charlie was never concerned with accolades or recognition. His life certainly reflected a notion often associated with Presidents Reagan and Truman--that there is no limit to what can be accomplished and the good that can be done when we don't worry about who gets the credit. We in the First District will miss him dearly but we will long note and take heart from his selfless devotion to his community, his country, his family, and his faith. I submit the text of an article from the Southside Sentinel that gives a small glimpse of the impact of the lives of Charlie and his remarkable wife, Sally Gayle. [From the Southside Sentinel, Apr. 18, 2012] ``Friends to the Community'' (By Tom Chilemmi) Hartfield.--Many stories were told about Charles and Sally Gayle Revere of Hartfield during last Saturday's 14th annual Pride of Middlesex award banquet. Most involved good-natured ribbing. Sprinkled among the humor were heartfelt affirmations of a grateful community. Sallie Belle Benedetti, a longtime friend, shared memories of their college years at the University of Richmond, where Charles and Sally Gayle met. On a serious note, Benedetti said, ``You've shared your time and talent so unselfishly. You have touched us in so many ways and we are better for knowing you.'' Benedetti closed with a quote she said describes the Reveres so well. ``The real purpose of our existence is not to make a living, but to make a life . . . a worthy well- rounded useful and loving life. If anyone has done that well, I think Sally Gayle and Charlie have.'' Johnny Fleet of Hartfield, who grew up with Charles, told several stories. However, he also had this to say. ``The word `generous' comes to mind when I think about Charlie and Sally . . . generous, not just in monetary things. In today's world, generosity is better judged by the time spent and time given. And it truly applies to them. I don't know how they keep up. They are absolutely tireless in their efforts and the time they spend with their family and this community for all the things they are involved in.'' Fleet made a point of noting Sally Gayle's many acts of kindness. ``She has made more visits, sent more cards, sent more birthday acknowledgments, sent more get-well cards and more food than anyone I can imagine.'' The Reveres are ``friends to the community,'' said Fleet. In selecting the Reveres, the Middlesex Rotary Club ``brought the cream to the top,'' said Jimmy Pitts of Urbanna. ``No two better people could have been picked for what they've done for the county of Middlesex and all of us in it. We thank you so much.'' Charles Bristow of Urbanna said, ``I don't know of anyone else that is more deserving.'' The Pride of Middlesex (POM) award is given annually to recognize and honor individuals or groups that exemplify the Rotary motto of ``Service Above Self.'' In accepting the award, Charles said, ``It's very humbling to be recognized by your peers. It's an honor and we do appreciate this more than you know.'' Charles said his family is thankful to live in Middlesex where there is a true sense of community. ``This county has some very kind people. They are very, very generous when there is a need, and they all have the best interests of the county and the community.'' Sally Gayle thanked all those involved in the event. ``We're very humbled to receive this honor. Thank you so much.'' Charles also recognized the 37-year career of Reverend Chauncey Mann, Jr., who recently retired as pastor of Grafton Baptist Church. Rev. Mann, a Rotarian, was the emcee of the banquet, which was held in the Hartfield Firehouse pavilion. ``Chauncey is someone I admire,'' said Charles. ``He's always been a great friend, he's always been community minded, he always puts the best interest of the county forward, and he's worked tirelessly for the county. He's just been a model citizen for our county. We are going to miss you.'' The Reveres selected two organizations to receive a charitable donation from the proceeds of the Pride of Middlesex award banquet. Donations will be given to the Grafton Baptist Church's after-school program and the Northern Neck Free Health Clinic, which also serves Middlesex County. Background Charles Revere, a native of Middlesex, graduated from Middlesex High School. He attended the University of Richmond where he met and married Sally Gayle Shepherd. Sally Gayle grew up in Lynchburg and is a graduate of E.C. Glass High School. She attended Westhampton College of the University of Richmond, and graduated from Phillips Business College. After Charles graduated from the University of Richmond and completed infantry training in the U.S. Army, the couple moved to Fort Ord, California, until Charles completed his two-year military obligation. Charles elected to participate in the National Guard program for four years after which he was discharged as a captain. Upon returning to Middlesex, Charles joined Revere Gas, a business his father started as Middlesex Bottled Gas in 1942 by delivering bottled gas from Richmond to a few Middlesex customers. Today, Revere Gas serves customers in 17 counties from six locations. Revere Gas is a family business. Sally Gayle is the firm's secretary/treasurer and for many years she handled the payroll. Both of the Reveres' sons, Craig and Carlton, work for the company. In 1999-2000, Charles was president of the National Propane Gas Association. During the same period, Sally Gayle was chairman of the Scholarship Foundation of the National Propane Gas Association. Charles has continued the family interest and service to the Hartfield Volunteer Fire Department. His father was one of the five original founders. Charles was a member of the Middlesex Board of Supervisors from 1980 to 1988. He is a past president of Middlesex Lions Club, and is currently a director on the boards of EVB Bank, Riverside Health System, Riverside Tappahannock Hospital (chairman), and the Northern Neck Free Health Clinic. Sally Gayle's past services include: president/chair of American Cancer Society (Middlesex); chair of the first Middlesex Relay for Life; president of Middlesex Junior Woman's Club; volunteer work with the Middlesex YMCA (Middlesex Capital Campaign); RGH Hospital volunteer; president of the Middle Peninsula Community Concert Association; chair of the first county rescue squad drive; and a volunteer at the Northern Neck Free Health Clinic and with Red Cross Bloodmobiles. Charles and Sally Gayle have and continue to serve and support Lower United Methodist Church in many capacities. Previous POM recipients have included the following notable county residents and organizations: Louise Gray, Sherman Holmes, Ruth Barr, Middlesex Volunteer Fire Department, Middlesex Volunteer Rescue Squad, Joe Fears, Jack Fackler, Tom Hardin, Charles Bristow, Dave and Linda Cryer, sisters Rachel Norris Bridger and Ruby Lee Norris, and Aubrey and Margie Hall.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I missed a series of recorded votes on June 15. Had I been present, I would have voted ``YEA'' on roll call vote No. 364 and roll call vote No. 365.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 105 Fredericksburg, Virginia area high school seniors who plan to enlist in the United States Armed Forces after graduation. These students have excelled in their academic and extracurricular activities, and I offer my sincere congratulations upon their high school graduation. I commend these student leaders for their selflessness and courageous decision to serve their country as members of the Armed Forces: Amaya, Alexis Perez; Anderson, Jamie; Bates, Devon; Black, Sean; Blosch, Charles; Coleman, Jaylan; Courtney, James; Cunningham, Christopher; Denise, Sean; Dixon, Tyler; Harcrow, Derek; Hardy, Diamond; Hughes, Hayden; Jenkins, Hunter; Lawrence, Darell; Lintz, Christopher; Lloyd, Katelyn; McHugh, Michael; Minaya, Jonathan; O'Carroll, Alexander; Pladson, Tyler; Post, Seth; Prouty, Justin; Raftery, Sean; Rivas, Michael; Shannon, Danielle; Smith, Jared; Smith, Justin; Steele, Brian; Stemen, Austein; Thomas, Sabre; Thornton, Destiny; Toussaint, Jamel; Wilson, Ashley; Yingling, Christopher. Allen, Joshua; Bass, Elijah; Beard, Justin; Becerra, Luis; Bentz, Asher; Carter, Brandon; Clatterbuck, Zachary; Deleon, Elias; Dirisio, Daniel; Farr, Austin; Freeborn, Harley; Heath, Christopher; Holland, Elizabeth; Humberger, Jacob; Jenkins, Adam; Johnson, Nathaniel; Keirn, Ryan; Lewellyn, Benjamin; Mason, Garrett; McNair, Nicholas; Medinafranco, Tomas; Meyers, Tyler; Morris, Austin; Peck, Joshua; Perkins, Andrew; Phoebus, Scott; Pins, Jonathon; Principe, Leilani; Rigopoulos, Nicholas; Robleroyoc, Gerardo; Seggelink, Jacob; Shingler, Jonathan; Smith, David; Snider, James; Thome, Dominic; Torres, Everett; Vitale, Logan; Woodall, Mason. Archer, Robert; Archie, Torrance; Belcher, Joshua; Dale, John Barron; Dillahunt, Zakiya; Duff, Cody; Flecker, Arthur; Gines, Dwayne; Glass, Samuel; Leach, Hunter; Moss, Shaygne; Norris, Seth; Smith, Jamie Le Ann; Tillmon, Sarah; Tran, Robinson; Truffer, Steven; Warren, Adam; Waters, Deja; Williams, Aaron. Berry, Katie; Christensen-Dinwiddie, Joseph; Eldridge, Amber; Edivan, Joseph; Gilbert, Ryan; Harris, Brian; Kenly, Logan; Nordgren, Tycho; Rousseau, Teagan; Smith, Kayla; Szczepanski, Brittany; Valvo, Anthony; Wilkins, Kendrick. These students will be honored by the Greater Fredericksburg Chapter of Our Community Salutes at their 4th Annual Military Enlistee Recognition Ceremony on Saturday, June 20, 2015 at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, VA. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking these young men and women and their families for their dedication to serving this great Nation. We owe them and the many Americans who have served and will serve a debt of gratitude.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the amendment. These important provisions that are already included in the law have been included in the past several appropriations bills for several years running, and there is a reason that they are there. This wording represents a strong and enduring consensus in Congress that Guantanamo should remain open and that detainees should not be transferred to the United States for any reason. This is debated back and forth in agreement on both sides of the aisle. Striking these provisions would have unknown consequences for a number of U.S. communities, and it is impossible for any of us to know how many detainees might be brought there, where they might be held, and the impacts on communities and facilities that are holding them. It is also impossible to know what the cost might be, so we are asking for this unknown to be pursued without knowing the risks or knowing the costs. Putting detainees in U.S. prisons, as the administration originally proposed, would be disruptive and potentially disastrous. We know former FBI Director Mueller had stated: To transfer detainees to local jails could affect or infect other prisoners or have the capability of affecting events outside the prison system. The last thing we need today in the face of ISIS is to convert more folks to extremism. The idea of bringing detainees for trials in the United States quickly collapsed as local jurisdictions voiced their strong opposition. We heard that across the United States. As everyone here is aware, several detainees that have been released from Guantanamo have gone back to the fight and killed and wounded Americans. The threat is real, and Guantanamo is already equipped to handle the detention and military trial of these individuals as appropriate. Any proposal that results in these detainees being sent to the United States for any reason is simply the wrong policy. We have tread this ground time and time and time again. I therefore oppose the amendment and urge my colleagues to vote against this amendment.

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Chairman, I rise again in opposition to this amendment. We see that today, Guantanamo is equipped to hold these detainees. The military tribunals there, if allowed to do so, are able to try these detainees. Again, they were captured under the rules of engagement as enemy combatants. Let's make sure that we are putting them in that situation to be tried as such. Another element, too, is localities have spoken vocally to say, No, we do not want these detainees here, for a variety reasons. One is they are worried about security there. I know the argument is, Well, the facilities here in the United States can hold them. That is not the single issue. The issue is the communities' concern about what the outcomes of the movement of these detainees will be here today. We see today radicalization across the United States from outside the United States by forces like ISIS. Think about the opportunity as those detainees are moved here and the notoriety that they will attain and how the press will cover it and that being used in addition to radicalize folks on the side of extremism. That is another issue that I believe needs to be addressed. Again, GTMO is working. It is detaining these individuals, enemy combatants that have been picked up on the battlefield. It has been, I believe, the determination of this body through extensive debate that we shouldn't build facilities here specifically for that purpose and that GTMO is well suited to do the job. Again, I urge my colleagues to vote in opposition to this amendment.

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this critical amendment to restore the national sea-based deterrence fund. This amendment is critical to maintaining our Nation's nuclear deterrence and ensure a robust Navy shipbuilding budget. It makes sense now to set aside funding for the Ohio class submarine replacement program. This makes sure that, down the road, we are not forced to choose between building a replacement ballistic missile submarine or a destroyer or an aircraft carrier. The Navy already faces challenges in building enough warships to meet the global threats our Nation faces. Funding the national sea-based deterrence fund is the best solution to maintaining national strategic deterrence without hollowing out the Navy's shipbuilding budget. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Chairman, my amendment would give the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA, Fisheries the authority to implement management practices better suited to the nature and scope of recreational fishing. I hope we can all agree that commercial and recreational fisheries are fundamentally different activities, with dissimilar harvest data collection systems that can benefit from different management techniques. Commercial fisheries are managed for yield. Commercial landings can usually be counted or weighed in realtime; thus, quotas can be enforced in realtime. This allows managers to close a fishery well before the allowable catch is exceeded. In short, a commercial fishery's catch can be managed in realtime based on data from verified landings. Recreational fisheries are different and should be managed for expectation, as opposed to yield. Anglers fish for a variety of reasons, but a lack of fish will make them go less frequently or stop altogether. Anglers and fishermen need to believe they will have opportunity to encounter fish, with the hopes they may catch some, possibly including some large enough to take home. Instead of yield, abundance and age structure are key elements to recreational fisheries since those factors govern both the rate of encounters and the size of fish caught. Maximizing yield has little meaning in most recreational fisheries. That is why NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service should manage recreational fisheries based on expected long-term harvest rates, not strictly on yield or poundage- based quotas. This strategy has been successfully used by State fisheries managers in our freshwater and coastal fisheries, providing exceptional recreational fishing opportunities while ensuring sustainable fish populations. By managing the recreational sector based on harvest rate as opposed to a poundage-based quota, managers have been able to provide predictability in regulations while also sustaining a healthy population. While the Magnuson-Stevens Act does not specifically prohibit such an approach, it should specifically direct the National Marine Fisheries Service and regional councils to consider alternative strategies to commercial management for appropriate recreationally valuable fisheries. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment that provides additional flexibility to improve the management of important recreational fisheries. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Chairman, as co-chairman of the Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1335, the Strengthening Fishing Communities and Increasing Flexibility in Fisheries Management Act, and would like to thank my colleagues, Chairman Rob Bishop and Subcommittee Chairman Don Young, for all their efforts to bring this important piece of legislation to the House floor for a vote. Mr. Chairman, according to the latest report released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, in 2012, the U.S. domestic seafood industry had a sales impact of $141 billion and supported approximately 1.3 million jobs. H.R. 1335 makes the necessary reforms to support these jobs and our fishermen by promoting better science and requiring State and local data to be considered in Federal decisionmaking about fisheries. Last year I spoke with commercial fishermen from the Pacific Coast, Atlantic Coast, and the Gulf of Mexico, and the common theme in our discussions was the need for better data and scientific analysis to improve management. The U.S. has a long and profitable heritage in fishing. To continue that heritage, we need to have quality, diverse data and scientific analysis to facilitate educated decisionmaking on fishery management. H.R. 1335 allows for just that. Mr. Chairman, the bill increases transparency and provides much- needed flexibility in the law for fishery managers to properly consider the environmental and economic impacts of decisions affecting fishing communities. And it is important to note that H.R. 1335 makes all of these key reforms to fisheries management without authorizing any new additional Federal spending. We can do the job with the existing resources. This bill also makes great strides in the saltwater recreational fisheries. Saltwater recreational fishing alone has a $70 billion impact on our Nation's economy and supports over 454,000 jobs. Marinas, grocery stores, restaurants, motels, lodges, tackle shops, boat dealerships, clothing manufacturers, gas stations, and a host of other businesses and entities benefit from the money spent by recreational anglers. This industry does not just impact coastal communities but enables job creation and robust economic development in a variety of regions across the country. Improving recreational data collection and a transparent review of allocations in the Southeast are all great tools that H.R. 1335 gives NOAA to effectively manage a recreational industry that is a significant economic player in the United States economy. H.R. 1335 is widely supported by a coalition of sportsmen and conservation groups, including the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation and the Center for Coastal Conservation. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 1335 in support of access to our Nation's resources and the 1.3 million jobs that are supported by fishing.

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Chairman, I would tell the gentleman from Arizona that this amendment does not in any way stop National Marine Fisheries Service or the councils from preventing overfishing and making the needed changes to management. This bill purely provides them the flexibility and adaptability to properly manage recreational fisheries which, as the gentleman from Arizona said, we all know are different than those commercial fisheries. I want to make sure that they have the opportunity to manage the fisheries properly and especially in light of recreational fishermen and the local economies that depend on viable, sustainable recreational fisheries. We know that we have to make sure we are making good resource decisions, and we do that by providing that flexibility and adaptability. This amendment allows us to do that. It allows recreational fisheries and the management thereof to be treated different than commercial fisheries which we have all seen through time we must do if we are to manage them in the best interest not only of the resource itself--that is the fish--but to manage it in the best interest of our recreational fishermen and the economies that depend on them. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the passing of Mr. Sebastian J. Brusca, of Williamsburg, VA. Mr. Brusca passed away peacefully on May 2, 2015 where he joins his wife, Antoinette. He is survived by his four children: Rita Brusca Schmidt, Salvatore Brusca, Carol Panholzer, and James Brusca, and his four grandsons: J.R. Craig, Justin Panholzer, and Matthew Brusca. Mr. Brusca was a loving father, grandfather, and family man. Mr. Brusca was also a loyal patriot who served in the Marine Corp during WWII and was an active member in his local DAV, VFW, and the Young at Heart. Mr. Brusca will be dearly missed by his fellow veterans as well as his family and friends.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dear friend and exemplary public servant, Mr. Hershell E. Wolfe, for his 46 years of dedicated, distinguished, and admirable service to our nation. Mr. Wolfe retires on May 29, 2015, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and devotion to the United States Army and the Federal government. Mr. Wolfe entered the Senior Executive Service following a 33-year career in the United States Army. From 1997 to 2002, Colonel Wolfe served as the Assistant Chief, Medical Service Corps and Consultant to the Army Surgeon General for Environmental Science and Engineering. In this capacity he managed the Army careers of several hundred Preventive Medicine officers and provided professional consultation to the Army Surgeon General, the Army Medical Department, the Army Staff, Department of Defense, other military departments and Federal agencies. In 2002, Mr. Wolfe became the Special Assistant for Environment, Safety and Occupational Health, and served as the principal advisor and provided senior staff leadership on all environmental, safety, occupational and environmental health issues for nearly two years. In his final assignment, Mr. Wolfe served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Environment, Safety and Occupational Health. His responsibilities spanned a global organization that includes a $1.5 billion annual environmental program and oversight for the safety and occupational health of over 1.2 million Soldiers and Army Civilian employees worldwide. Mr. Wolfe has provided exceptional leadership for all Army sustainability, environment, natural resources, safety and occupational health programs over the past eleven years. Mr. Wolfe earned a B.S. from East Tennessee State University and a Masters of Public Health in Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene from the University of Texas. His recognitions are many, but a few are the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Legion of Merit, Army and Defense Staff Badges, the Order of Military Medical Merit, the ``A'' prefix awarded by the Army Medical Department, and Adjunct Assistant Professor for Preventive Medicine and Biometrics at the Department of Defense Uniform Services University of Health Sciences. Mr. Wolfe authored and established Department of Defense Instruction 1010.15, Smoke-Free Workplace and is a plank holder of the Army's health hazard assessment program. Mr. Wolfe can certainly reflect on his 46 years of service with pride and satisfaction. I want to commend Mr. Wolfe for his service and dedication to our Armed Services and our nation. I wish the very best as he starts a new journey and exceptional chapter of his life. I wish him and his wife Lois all the best in their much-deserved retirement.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Chairman, recently, the Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus held its annual Member shoot-out, where Members get together from the Republican and Democrat sides and shoot a round of sporting clays, skeets, and trap. It is a friendly day where we get together and have some great competition. It is in the interest of the shooting sports and of our outdoor efforts there. And it was a great privilege to be there with the other Members. We had a record turnout this year of Members from both sides of the aisle. We are blessed that Team Republican will retain the shoot-out trophy this year but by a narrow margin, with a winning score of 235- 227. It is a real honor for me to serve as the co-chair of the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation. I have Congressman Jeff Duncan of South Carolina here, who is our co-vice chairman; and we also have Congressman Tim Walz, who is our other co-chairman. With that, Mr. Chairman, I yield to the gentleman from the great State of Minnesota (Mr. Walz), the co-chair of our caucus.

Mr. WITTMAN

Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a real American Hero, SSGT Michael Schafer of the United States Army, 2nd BATTALION, 173 Airborne. Mike served in Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He received the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and the Silver Star. Michael was killed in Oruzgan in combat on July 25, 2005 as part of a quick response team while helping fellow soldiers under fire. He is survived by his wife Danielle, son Devin, his mother Karen and step-father Daniel Barr, his father Mark Schafer, retired Navy of Williamsburg, his sister Sarah, and two brothers, Mark Shafer and Timothy Barr. Today and every day let us all remember all of those selfless heroes like Michael and their families who give that last full measure in the name of freedom. Michael wanted to become a Ranger, but due to a loss of hearing in combat, was told he should retire. Instead, he chose to return to his brothers in combat and died on his last tour. Albert Caswell penned the following poem, ``Our America's Son'', in honor of Michael Shafer this Memorial Day. ``Our, America's Son this chosen one Of warm heart and steal, who to us all has so revealed How it is on earth, as it is in heaven as they will be done. Who so gave that full measure. The greatest of all possible treasures, as did America's Son As now we all so weep As all in our heart's Michael you we keep, oh so very deep. As we remember what to all of us what you'd so teach About life and death, all in honor's quest . . . for all your brothers in arms you'd seek . . . As you were a man of actions and deeds All else supersedes Could all our hearts as high yours exceed? But for the greater good, in all you could. Now all in our grief. Now all in our loss we seek. Of such cost it reaps. This pain to ease. As to us now all so speaks. For your life was Army Strong. For magnificent men like you Mike, all live ever after in history like a song. Whose courage forever rings loud and long. As but The Best of the Best. Because moments are all we have. Just minutes to turn good from bad. And now we lay your fine body down to sleep. All in our hearts now so very deep. And across Williamsburg tonight There comes a gentle rain Comes our Lord's tears to so help to ease your families pain To wash down upon you to remain Until, once again up in Heaven you will all meet again, and you won't have to cry no more And hush little baby don't you cry, because one day up in heaven you will look into your father's eyes And remember he is with you this day by your side. And you too Danielle his lovely wife, must somehow find the strength to start a new life And all of his family find peace all in his light. Now rest my son, your war is over on earth, is done. And rise up for your new battle begun. As an Angel in the Army of our Lord To watch over us ever more. For Michael you are now so one. At Ease, America's Son!''