Randy Weber

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my good friend and esteemed successor from the great legislative district of Texas-29 on the occasion of his retirement as State representative. Since taking office in 2013, he has been a staunch defender of Texas constitutional rights. His leadership has been pivotal in securing funding for Texas roads, supporting our public schools, and fighting to protect our border. His unwavering commitment to our State has been felt across Texas. Ed has stood firm against Federal overreach, championed policies that protect the unborn, and defended our religious liberties. Ed's legacy of principled leadership and courage will be deeply missed. Mr. Speaker, it is with great admiration and respect that I thank my good friend for his leadership. Southeast Texas and the great State of Texas are better because of him. Brenda Gail and I wish him and his bride, Freddie, all the best in his well-deserved retirement. May God bless him and Freddie in their retirement, and may God continue to bless Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an incredible man and true Texas patriot, Ray Holbrook, who was called home to be with the Lord on May 1 of this year at the vibrant age of 97. Ray was a pillar of strength, integrity, and service to Galveston County for many, many years. He served as the longest-standing county judge from 1967 to 1995, dedicating nearly three decades of his life to making his community a better place, and he was very successful. Ray wasn't just a judge. He was a man of action, Mr. Speaker. A proud Aggie, he is fondly remembered for his tireless work of improving roads, upgrading parks, and fighting to improve the lives of county employees by removing them from Social Security and putting them on a better retirement system. Mr. Speaker, perhaps his greatest legacy is helping create the Galveston County Water Authority, which has grown over time into the Gulf Coast Water Authority, ensuring that future generations will have access to the water resources they so desperately need. Ray's impact reaches far beyond his accomplishments in office. He was a beloved father and friend, a man whose deep faith and unwavering commitment to his neighbors left an indelible mark on all who knew him. His life of service, devotion to his community, and deep love for the Lord will continue to inspire us all. May God bless Ray Holbrook's family, and may his legacy of leadership, honor, and faith live on in Galveston County and beyond. Celebrating Retirement of Texas State Representative Edward Lynn ``Ed'' Thompson

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor a true patriot and dear friend, the incredible Yvonne Dewey. She was called home to be with the Lord on September 2 at age 84. Yvonne was the very definition of honor and loyalty. I knew her personally. When she moved to Lake Jackson, Texas, back in 1971, she didn't just plant roots. She left a legacy. Her impact on our community and the Republican Party is immeasurable. She didn't just participate. She led, serving on countless boards and associations, always working to better the lives of our youth. Mr. Speaker, when she stepped in to chair the Republican Party of Brazoria County for 21 years, she did a great job. I watched her up close and personal. I had the privilege of meeting Yvonne when I was just a precinct chair. She was someone I could look up to for wisdom and leadership. Over the years, we developed a lasting friendship. I saw firsthand her gift for leading the Republican Party and helping elect the kind of patriots that represent the best of Brazoria County. Yvonne didn't just talk the talk; she lived it. Her spirit and passion for conservative principles were undeniable, and her selfless dedication earned her the respect of so many in our community. This woman of service led by example, and we can all learn from her kindness, her dedication, and her selflessness. Her legacy will live on in Brazoria County, and I am honored to have served her in Congress and, most of all, to have called her my friend. Mr. Speaker, let us pray that we continue to see fearless leaders like Yvonne Dewey rise up for our Nation. Her love for this country and southeast Texas is and was unmatched. Brenda Gail and I extend our heartfelt thanks to her husband of 50 years, John Dewey, who was her rock, and we know how deeply she loved him and the family. Honoring Ray Holbrook

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to pay tribute to a great American, Chester A. ``Pete'' Shelton, who was called home to be with the Lord on July 25, 2024. Pete was the kind of man who knew what it meant to serve. Following in his family's footsteps, he became a Beaumont firefighter right after high school and eventually served as the city's fire chief. He didn't stop there. Pete answered the call of duty by joining the United States Army in 1958, proudly serving his country and continuing in the Reserves until 1966. Beaumont was blessed to have Pete's dedication. He not only helped develop the fire chief's code of ethics but also gave over 30 years of service on the Port of Beaumont Board of Commissioners. His impact was deep, and his commitment to service was unwavering. Mr. Speaker, Pete Shelton's legacy of kindness, compassion, and selfless service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May we all strive to live by the values he so faithfully upheld. Honoring Yvonne Dewey

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of an exceptional public servant, a man who served our great Nation with unwavering integrity and dedication, and a friend I was proud to know, Chief Robert Wieners, who went home to be with the Lord on August 24, 2024. After graduating from Boston State College in 1978, Bob answered the call to serve our Nation in the United States Marine Corps. Over the course of more than 20 years, he rose through the ranks to become a lieutenant colonel, retiring from Active Duty on September 1, 1998. His time in the Marines was marked by superior leadership and operational excellence, a testament to the character of a man we honor today. Friendswood was truly blessed beyond measure when Bob and his bride, Susan, made it their home. For over two decades, Bob led our community as chief of police, leaving an indelible mark on Friendswood through his 24 years of dedicated service. Mr. Speaker, I had the honor of getting to know Bob over the years, and his tireless work to protect our community along with his deep love of Friendswood will never be forgotten. Brenda Gail and I are praying for the entire Wieners family, the Friendswood Police Department, and everyone who had the privilege of calling Bob their friend. Mr. Speaker, may we all strive to uphold the values he so proudly embodied. Paying Tribute to Chester A. ``Pete'' Shelton

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his words. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time I have remaining.

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor a remarkable man, David Andrew Christian, who was called home to be with our Lord on April 18 at the young, young age of 52.

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and privilege today to recognize Ambassadors Preparatory Academy in Galveston, Texas, which I am proud to represent, for being selected as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2024 by the U.S. Department of Education. Mr. Speaker, the National Blue Ribbon School program seeks to honor schools from around the country that have a vision of excellence and hold their students and faculty to a high standard. I can't think of a more worthy school than Ambassadors Preparatory Academy. Since 2007, this school has pushed each and every student, giving students from low socio-economic backgrounds a chance of high-quality education and fostering holistic student development through the collective efforts of dedicated staff, dedicated parents, and dedicated community members. I believe their mission, Mr. Speaker, and their dedication to it have rightfully earned them this great honor. Their commitment to providing high-quality education through, student-centered, data-driven instruction in a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment builds a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the superintendent, Dr. Rachelle Joseph; the wonderful teachers; the educators; and the staff at Ambassadors Preparatory Academy, as well as the dedicated students and their families on this great achievement. In Honor of David Andrew Christian

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from Ohio for her remarks. Ambassadors Preparatory Academy

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 200 years of the city of Dickinson, Texas, which I am proud to represent in Texas' 14th Congressional District. Dickinson has a storied history, and I want to be the first to say: Happy bicentennial. The city of Dickinson is named after John Dickinson, a landowner whose name became synonymous with the area. What began as an agricultural settlement in the mid-1800s would eventually grow into a thriving community thanks to the arrival of the railroad and the dreams of those who sought to make Dickinson their home. From its fertile soil to the efforts of early entrepreneurs who formed the Dickinson Land and Improvement Association, this city has long been a beacon of promise on the Gulf Coast. In its early days, Dickinson became known for its productive farming and later as a destination for those seeking a peaceful, prosperous life along the bayous and the prairies. Over the years, Dickinson has grown alongside the industrial expansions of nearby Houston and Galveston. The city's strategic location along major rail lines and highways has allowed it to benefit from the region's booming oil and shipping, as well as industrial sectors. When NASA established the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in 1962, it brought a new era of opportunity and development to our community and to its neighbors. Today, Dickinson is home to over 20,000 hardworking, admirable citizens who exemplify the very best of southeast Texas values. This is a community built on grit, resilience, and a deep sense of pride. As your Representative, I am grateful every day to stand before you as the voice of the city of Dickinson in these hallowed Halls of Congress. It is an honor to represent a city that has made so many contributions to the progression of our region. Here is to many more years of Dickinson pride, progress, and the enduring southeast Texas spirit that defines us. Happy anniversary, Dickinson, and may your future be as bright as your storied past. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur). Honoring Kay Granger

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Ellzey).

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Williams).

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heart full of gratitude and admiration to honor my dear friend and colleague, Representative Kay Granger, a true Texas legend whose retirement marks the end of an extraordinary era in this House. Kay Granger is not just a trailblazer. She is absolutely a Texas institution. From her early days as the first woman to serve as the mayor of Fort Worth, to pave the way as the first Republican woman from the State of Texas to serve in Congress, to her historic tenure here in Congress serving Texas' 12th Congressional District, Kay Granger has embodied the values that Texans hold dear. Kay Granger has embodied the values that Texans hold dear. Mr. Speaker, those values would happen to be faith, fortitude, and an absolute unwavering commitment to doing what is right. As chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee where she made history becoming that, Kay demonstrated unparalleled leadership in guiding one of the most critical responsibilities for Congress, and that would be overseeing the power of the purse. Mr. Speaker, Kay Granger's wisdom and steady hand have ensured that our appropriations process prioritized the need of the American people while safeguarding the principles of limited government. I have had the privilege of serving along with Kay in the Texas delegation for the past 11 years, Mr. Speaker, and let me tell you, she has been nothing short of extraordinary. In Texas we say: You done good. The Texas row on the House floor will not be the same without her. Kay has been an absolute cornerstone of our Texas delegation, a voice we have relied on, a leader we have admired, and a friend we have cherished. Kay's leadership on the House Appropriations Committee and her ability to get things done have moved the needle in a giant Texas way, and not just for Texas, but for the entire country. Kay, your dedication to service has truly been a blessing to this Congress and to every Texan who has had the honor of calling you their Representative. You have made Texas proud, Kay Granger, and we are all better for having worked alongside you. Kay, please know this: as you head into retirement, you are leaving a legacy that will surely stand the test of time. We hope you get to enjoy that retirement in the greatest State in the Nation, the one and only Lone Star State. Let me reiterate, Kay, thank you for your friendship, for your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to the values we hold dear. God bless you, Kay. May He continue to hold you and continue to guide you in this next chapter. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Moran).

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and to submit extraneous material on the topic of this Special Order.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New York for yielding, and I thank Congresswoman Harshbarger for doing this for us and for Cathy. Mr. Speaker, Chairman Cathy McMorris Rodgers exemplifies principled leadership. As chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, she has championed--you have heard about them--the policies that protect American families, secure energy independence, and foster innovation. Her deep commitment to her faith, her family, and the cause of freedom has been a guiding light, and her presence will undoubtedly leave a void here in Washington. I want to give you a personal insight from Randy Weber. She was the conference chair, I don't know, 4 years ago maybe, and she got some opposition when she was going to run for conference chair, from a woman. It was going to be a little tough. It was going to be a little tough on the Republican Conference, the Republican Members of Congress. Cathy very graciously stepped down and said she would not run, which left the seat open for the lady that did get the Republican Conference chair. That just shows that she has grace and she cared more about the conference than she cared about herself. Her deep commitment to her faith, her family, and the cause of freedom has been that kind of guiding light and undoubtedly is going to leave that void I talked about. Under Cathy's leadership, I have watched this committee tackle critical issues from affordable energy to healthcare challenges, making our Nation stronger. I was involved with about three Bible studies, and then I found out that Cathy McMorris Rodgers had one on Wednesday morning at 7 a.m. I said I am going to start going to that Bible study if she will let me. Unfortunately for her, she did. She let me in. I have watched her grow. I have watched her lead and pray for the Nation and pray for our friends on both sides of the aisle. Cathy's dedication to America, Washington's Fifth District, and her colleagues, all I can say to them and to us is that we have walking among our midst--if you read the Bible, book of Proverbs, chapter 31, we have a virtuous woman. Cathy, we are going to miss you in these Halls, but we are grateful that you were here. In the words of our Lord: Well done, thy good and faithful servant.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor two exceptional officers from the Vidor Police Department, Officer Michael Stephenson and Officer Ashton Moss, for their courageous, life- saving actions in the face of a family's worst nightmare. Their swift and selfless response is a shining example of the best that law enforcement has to offer--timely heroics in the service of others. In the early hours of Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 1:49 AM, the Vidor Police Dispatch Center received a call about a residential fire with reports of children trapped inside. When Officers Stephenson and Moss arrived on the scene, they wasted no time. Spotting an air conditioning unit in the window of the children's room, they immediately began working to dislodge it, knowing every second counted. Officer Stephenson managed to remove the window unit, and with the help of Officer Moss, they reached inside and pulled out two young children--a 7-year- old and a 9-year-old. Just moments after they rescued those precious kids, flames erupted from the window. I thank Officers Michael Stephenson and Ashton Moss, for their bravery, speed, and dedication. Their actions embody the true spirit of Southeast Texas--courage, selflessness, and a deep commitment to protecting others. It is an honor to represent them in Congress, and their heroism sets an example for us all.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 7073, the Next Generation Pipelines Research and Development Act. I introduced this important piece of legislation earlier this year to direct the Department of Energy toward a new and more modern approach to pipeline research and development. The chairman talked about over 2 million something miles of pipelines in the United States. Well, I am from the great State of Texas, which has over half a million miles of gas and liquid pipelines, so that is about a fourth of the whole pipelines in the United States if my high school math is holding up. This creates $374 billion, with a b, in total economic output for my State. That is because pipelines deliver oil and gas safely, reliably, and efficiently. However, as the chairman mentioned, half of all U.S. pipelines are over 60 years old, so we can expect defects and anomalies to occur more often. It is just a fact of the wear and tear they are under. Imagine driving a car that was over 60 years old, and yet it had never been tended to, which is unbelievable. Now, that is not to say that pipelines are dangerous, Mr. Speaker. Actually, the truth is quite the opposite, as pipelines safely deliver oil and gas without incident--check these numbers out--24/7, 99.999 percent of the time. That is a pretty good safety record, Mr. Speaker. As new energy sources emerge, like hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and methane, we can expect pipelines to be the primary source of transportation to American energy independence into the future. H.R. 7073 encourages new public-private projects in maintenance of our current pipeline infrastructure, and in supporting next-generation systems. Through the technological innovation directed by this legislation, the American energy sector will actually see a strengthened focus on material behavior, leak detection capabilities, and multifuel transportation. The Next Generation Pipeline R&D Act also brings together industry stakeholders, academia, and Federal agencies to collaborate and coordinate on vital pipeline research needs. It ensures that the Department of Energy focuses on basic research that is actually too low on the technology readiness level for industry to conduct. At the same time, this bill enables industry to be involved and ready to run with the innovation that does come from that kind of research. Lastly, this bill codifies and updates a multiagency research program that includes the Department of Energy, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the Department of Transportation. This language updates and builds upon the original memorandum of understanding that was put in place way back in 2004. H.R. 7073 is a good government bill with bipartisan support, as you have heard here tonight. It strengthens U.S. leadership in oil and natural gas research and actually provides a good return on investment for the American taxpayer. I thank Representatives Caraveo and Obernolte, as well as Chairman Lucas and our ranking member across the aisle for cosponsoring and being great partners on this bill. I urge all of my colleagues to support it.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition. This is unbelievable. I can't believe the radical left's absolutely relentless climate alarmism that has already claimed a bunch of victims: plastic straws, ceiling fans, gas stoves, you name it. Now, the EPA is targeting our combustion engine cars, trying to shove their electric vehicle agenda down the throats of freedom-loving Americans. This is all in the name of so-called climate change, while making us even more dependent on the Chinese Communist Party. To put this in perspective, how out of touch this frigging proposal is, there are 260 million gasoline- and diesel-powered passenger vehicles on the road today but only 3 million EVs. Let that sink in, Mr. Speaker. Of those EV drivers, 46 percent want to go back to gasoline cars. How about that? One of the things I tell people is if you are driving an electric car, don't ever turn onto a dead-end street because you will be stuck on a road with no outlet. Let that sink in. All jokes aside, I am absolutely proud to support my colleague John James' bill to protect consumer choice, allowing Americans--who would have known--to actually have realistic car options in the marketplace, which at the same time prevents further reliance on China. I am tired of hearing all the climate alarmism. Now they are trying to make Americans do what they want them to do. Well, Mr. Speaker, I tell the climate alarmists they can blow it out their tailpipes. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and let Americans drive the agenda and not some high-minded bureaucrats.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a remarkable couple who have been pillars of our community in Friendswood, Texas. The Glines Family, as some of the earliest residents of our beloved town, have left an indelible mark on the fabric of our society. Billy and Jackie Glines share a love story that reads like a fairytale. They met in 1957, and it wasn't long before sparks flew. Their first date in July of that year set the stage for a lifelong romance. By late October, Billy was called to serve our great country. Knowing he had found his soulmate, Billy was determined to marry Jackie before someone else did, for he knew he would ``never find another girl like her.'' On Christmas leave from basic training, Billy and Jackie had a quaint ceremony on December 23, 1957. Their love was tested early on, as Billy soon departed for Germany to serve as an Advanced Weapons Support Commander. Their bond only grew stronger over the miles and years. In November 1960, they welcomed their first child, Kimberly, followed by Britt in April 1964. Kimberly and her husband, Stan, have two children, while Britt and his wife, Shannon, have three. The Glines family legacy continues to thrive through these wonderful families. Billy's career journey led him to establish the Mustang Auto Shop with his brother-in-law, a business that remains in operation today, serving the Friendswood community. Jackie, after initially working at a weight loss facility, found her calling as a secretary at Accident Insurance Company from 1958 to 1960. She paused her career to raise her children, then dedicated 30 years as a beloved school secretary at her son's elementary school. Last Christmas, Billy and Jackie celebrated 67 years of enduring love and commitment. Their contributions to Friendswood are immeasurable, and their story is an inspiration to us all. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to represent folks like Billy and Jackie Glines, whose lives are a testament to the values we hold dear--love, dedication, and service. Their story is a shining example of the American spirit, and their enduring marriage is a beacon of hope and stability in our community. Here's to Billy and Jackie Glines, for their steadfast love, their service to our country, and their unwavering commitment to our community. May they continue to share many more happy years together.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to advocate for funding in this bill and the rule that underlies it. It is interesting to hear the ranking member from Massachusetts talk about how this is all about corporations. We are going to talk about energy. You heard the gentlewoman from Florida talk about energy bills and it is going to cost jobs. My district, the Texas Gulf Coast, has seven ports in it, more than any other Member of Congress. We produce 65 percent of the Nation's jet fuel and 80 percent of the Nation's military grade fuel. This is about working families. This bill will bolster our economic strength. It will create jobs. It will ensure that our infrastructure can support growth and withstand challenges. The Texas Gulf Coast is the energy producing capital. We have got 7 of America's largest petroleum refineries, 3 LNG plants, and 60 percent of the Nation's Strategic Petroleum Reserve. We are not talking about shipping gas to our enemies. Was that the comment from the gentlewoman from Florida? We are talking about shipping it to our allies, so they don't have to buy from enemies. As the energy capital of the world in Texas, we understand the critical importance of this bill. Our hardworking families--again, it is about working families--depend on a robust energy sector. This legislation will help us continue to lead in producing the cleanest and most affordable oil and gas. Let's keep our Nation strong. Help me to keep Texas strong. Let's secure this for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the rule and the underlying bills.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, due to a scheduled appointment at Walter Reed Medical Center, I missed the following votes. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 348; YEA on Roll Call No. 349; YEA on Roll Call No. 350; and YEA on Roll Call No. 351.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I am honored to rise today to recognize the well-deserved retirement of Mr. Jay Coppock after over 35 years in the financial industry, including 15 years at the Associated Credit Union of Texas. During Jay's time at ACU of Texas, he served as the executive director of SERVE, an organization dedicated to bringing Gulf Coast area veterans groups together to combine resources and information. Since its founding in August 2015, SERVE has grown from 6 organizations to over 60, all focused on improving the lives of our great military personnel and their families. Jay's commitment to our community and veterans has been exemplary, creating a network of support that has made a real difference. As Jay steps into a well-deserved retirement, we celebrate his profound impact and lasting legacy of service and compassion. I thank Jay. Brenda Gail and I hope he and his bride, Lauri, enjoy retirement.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Moore) for this Special Order commemorating the valor of the Greatest Generation. Eight decades ago, brave men stormed Normandy's beaches to confront tyranny and secure our freedoms. On this 80th D-Day anniversary, we honor their courage and resilience. Their sacrifice reminds us of humanity's resilience in adversity. I will share a couple of quotes from a sergeant and lieutenant, highlighting the battleship USS Texas' power, which is now proudly stationed, by the way, Madam Speaker, in Texas-14, highlighting the bravery of its soldiers. As the sky lightened, the armada became visible. The smoking and burning French shoreline also became more defined. At 0600, the huge guns of the Allied navies opened up with what must have been one of the greatest artillery barrages ever. The diesels on board our craft failed to muffle the tornadic blasting. I could see the battleship Texas firing broadside into the coastline. Boom-ba-ba-boom-ba-ba-boom. Within minutes, giant swells from the recoil of those guns nearly swamped us and added to the seasickness and misery, but one could also actually see the 2,000-pound missiles tumbling on their targets. This is one from Sergeant Robert Bixler, 116th Infantry Regiment, the 29th Infantry Division, and I thank Sergeant Bixler, another of our brave patriots. He said this: The ramp was lowered immediately after the rockets fired. It was our hope and desire to run right up on the beach for a dry landing, not because we were afraid of getting wet but because if we were soaked, it would be added weight to carry while climbing. The British Navy man had promised to put us down dry, but suddenly, we ran aground with the ramp dropped. The officer said, ``Everybody out.'' Looking ahead, I could see 15 or 20 feet of water, a muddy, dirty gray stretch. The entire area was marked by craters, shell holes from the guns of the Texas and the bombers. Madam Speaker, I thank Lieutenant Kerchner, 2nd Ranger Battalion. I want to tell you, Madam Speaker, we should never forget the bravery of the Greatest Generation. Let us always uphold the principles for which they fought so valiantly. Most importantly, let us ensure that we teach our children, the latest generation, about the Greatest Generation and about their remarkable legacy. They came home from World War II. They destroyed the vilest enemy the world had ever seen and kept the world safe. They simply came home and built the greatest country the world has ever known.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Madam Speaker, Saturday marked the 6-year anniversary of the shooting at Santa Fe High School where 10 innocent lives were lost at the hands of evil. We will never forget that tragic day that forever changed Santa Fe, Texas. As a community, we have witnessed the resilience of Santa Fe. The community's strength, their courage, and unity have been inspiring. We honor the victims by remembering their lives each and every day. Thank you for the bravery of the first responders and everyday heroes who showed remarkable courage on that day and in the days that followed. Madam Speaker, 6 years have passed, and not a day goes by that I don't think about each life that was taken on May 10, 2018. That day will be ingrained in my memory and our community until the end of time. Let us continue to work together to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.

Mr. WEBER of Texas

Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of an extraordinary Texan, Sergeant Jesse Clay, Jr., who recently passed away. Born on September 16, 1929, in Kirbyville, Texas, Jesse exemplified dedication and bravery. Mr. Clay was a devout and dedicated member of the Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Dickinson. He was baptized there and served throughout his life as an usher and member of the male chorus. In 1952, he enlisted in the United States Army, and on June 14, 1953, during the Korean War, he was wounded under intense artillery fire. For his bravery, Jesse was awarded the prestigious Purple Heart Medal. Despite his injury, Jesse's commitment to our Nation didn't end there. He reenlisted, serving another two years with distinction before being honorably discharged again in 1955. His dedication to duty and country is a shining example of the American spirit. After his military service, Jesse continued to contribute to his community. He worked at Gay Pontiac, McRee Ford, and retired from NASA Clay Holt and Dickinson I.S.D. after 30 years of service. His meticulous care for the Dickinson High School football field was well- known around town, and his efforts ensured that the field was always in pristine condition. Jesse's legacy is one of service, dedication, and community. His story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans and the enduring impact of their service. Sergeant Jesse Clay, Jr.'s life and service to our country will never be forgotten.