Lee Zeldin

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee as well as his great staff for all of their incredible assistance in making sure that this legislation not only came to the House floor for a vote, but came to the House floor for a vote swiftly and, fortunately, with very strong bipartisan support. So I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, especially to Chairman Royce and to Chairman McCaul as well of the House Homeland Security Committee, for all of their efforts. I rise today in support of my bill, the Counterterrorism Screening and Assistance Act of 2016. This legislation is about protecting America's security at home and abroad. Foreign fighter movement is a very serious challenge that has resulted in the well-recognized need for improved border security around the world and better information sharing between governments. The horrific terror attacks in Paris that killed over 100 people showed us just how easy it is for terrorists to move undetected across borders. This attack was largely carried out by European nationals, many of whom traveled to train and fight in Syria and then later returned to Europe through Greece and Turkey. Although local authorities already knew some of the attackers, they were still able to move across borders without detection and, in some cases, using fraudulent passports. It is essential that the United States work with the international community to monitor and stop the movement of terrorists abroad. Additionally, this legislation helps us counter the spread of infectious diseases like Zika. With the recent outbreak of the mosquito-borne Zika virus which has spread at rapid rates across South America, Central America, and the Caribbean, and the number of Zika cases among travelers visiting or returning to the United States, we must take action now. As evidenced with the Ebola outbreak in 2013, which decimated populations across Western Africa, if the proper effort is not implemented proactively, the consequences can be truly devastating. The Counterterrorism Screening and Assistance Act recently passed the House Foreign Affairs Committee unanimously with bipartisan support. This bill would establish international border security standards to close security gaps that currently exist that allow terrorists and foreign fighters to travel internationally. These standards would be developed in coordination with all relevant U.S. Government departments and agencies in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, Attorney General, Director of National Intelligence, and Director of the FBI. Our resources would be utilized in the most efficient way possible, with a special focus on high-risk and medium-risk countries to boost security. A reporting system would also be established to monitor efforts of foreign governments to combat terrorism and foreign fighter travel and to suspend foreign assistance to countries not making significant efforts to comply. Furthermore, the bill would put in place a monitoring system that would screen for infectious diseases to contain and prevent any potential outbreaks, which will help quarantine viruses by authorizing the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide the necessary equipment and supplies to mitigate the risk or threat of infectious diseases such as Zika, a disease that has caused widespread alarm as it has continued to spread across the global community. I also thank Congressman John Katko for his assistance as well. The Counterterrorism Screening and Assistance Act of 2016 is a bipartisan measure long overdue to not only protect our homeland from terrorism, but also ensure the U.S. is always prepared to combat the spread of any infectious diseases. I strongly encourage my colleagues in Congress to join me in this important effort to address a serious national security threat and vote today to pass the Counterterrorism Screening and Assistance Act of 2016 to keep America safe.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman literally for every single word and for his passion and advocacy on behalf of all the veterans not only in his district, but in mine and elsewhere. It is so incredibly important for the words that we just heard to be echoed throughout this Chamber and inspiration to be found for some of what are great ideas to actually come into effect. Because while there is one Joseph Dwyer who served our country, as the gentleman just pointed out, there are numerous Joseph Dwyers all around America who have not yet lost their struggles. Now, it is interesting because we so often call those who lose their bouts with the mental wounds of war--we call it suicide. Joseph Dwyer's last words were, ``I don't want to die.'' He was huffing, trying to get temporary relief from his pain. The struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder led to him losing his life, and he left behind a young widow and a 2-year-old daughter. There are Joseph Dwyers all around America who have not yet left behind young children and young widows. It is our duty in this House to fight for them with whatever energy and inspiration that we can find within us to ensure that what starts as a good idea becomes law. The PFC Joseph Dwyer Veterans Peer Support program is not a new idea. It may be a new idea for this Chamber. We created it in New York State back in 2012. At that time, I was in the New York State Senate, and we created it as part of the 2012-2013 State budget. As we just heard from the gentleman from Pennsylvania, veteran-to- veteran peer support, veterans helping veterans, is the key. We started the program in four counties in New York: Suffolk County, which is my home county; Jefferson County, home of the 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum; Rensselaer County; and Saratoga County. The program was so successful in these four counties and, by the way, operating at just $200,000 per county. Here in Washington, we talk about programs in the billions, the trillions, and the hundreds of millions. In my home county, we helped hundreds of veterans in just that first year. Hundreds of veterans were helped, over 400, and $200,000. We know firsthand how many lives were saved as a result. It was so successful. It started in four counties and expanded to over a dozen. In New York State, we are so proud of the Dwyer program. I just came to Congress. This is my first term. I was sworn in January of 2015. There may be no other mission during my time here in this Chamber that will be more satisfying for me personally than to do my part to hopefully save at least one veteran's life. But there are so many more that can be saved if this Chamber takes up this bill and makes it law. It doesn't matter whether you live in one of the most populated counties in America of veterans, like Suffolk, or if you live in a county that might not be that well populated overall anywhere else in this country. If you raised your hand and you are willing to lay down your life in protection of our freedoms and liberties for that flag, for everything that makes our country great, to protect it and defend it, when you come home, you should have shoes on your feet. There should be food on your table. There should be a roof over your head. Some come home with the physical wounds of war; others come home with the mental wounds of war. Our veterans are fighting for us, all of us--not just for their family or friends, but for strangers, too. Isn't it our duty while we are here, as elected representatives, to be fighting for not just those veterans with the mental wounds of war whom we know, but the countless others who are under the radar right now? They are under the radar because they don't know where to go for help. Within our communities, we have veterans. We have veterans service organizations--you know, like the VFW, the American Legion, the Vietnam Veterans of America, the list goes on--and we have mental health professionals who want to offer their services. We have others who may want to provide a venue for a meeting, others who may want to provide food. The setting is not that hard to put into place. For someone from our community who may live around the block from any Member of this Chamber, the setting is not that hard to put together for that veteran to go to that room and be with maybe 8, 10 veterans, understanding the struggles that they are going through so that they can share each other's stories and help each other cope with what are the mental wounds of war. It is our duty; it is our opportunity to be able to bring these veterans together and to save lives. As was noted earlier, the statistics are staggering: an estimated 22 veteran deaths per day--22. That is 8,000 in a year. It was just about a month ago when the Department of Veterans Affairs indicated that 17 of these 22 individuals weren't even in the VA system. Some don't go for help because they don't know where to go; others might fear the consequences. What is so important is, with the Dwyer program, maintaining confidentiality so our veterans won't fear that they might lose their job because they are going for help. That is incredibly important as well. A recent New York University Medical Center report indicated over 270,000 Vietnam-era veterans still suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. These figures are alarming. They are disturbing. The VA doesn't currently offer what we are talking about. This is different. We are hearing about how some of our veterans are being helped because of pets--dogs, horses--fishing, other activities. Let's think outside the box. Let's not think of just the same way of doing things that have not worked inside the Department of Veterans Affairs. Let's do something different. We are not starting from scratch. I would encourage any Member of this House to look at what we are doing in my home county of Suffolk. I am proud to say that we are leading the way in America, and there is a model there that works and should be replicated everywhere. Staffing shortages, untrained support staff, lacking family support services and access to services during nonbusiness hours are just some of the problems that have been reported at the Department of Veterans Affairs. I recently introduced legislation, H.R. 4513, which would expand nationally the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support program. PFC Joseph Dwyer was from my district. His home was Mount Sinai, New York. A lot of people know Joseph Dwyer because of an iconic photo from the start of the Iraq war. This picture was on national news. It was on the front cover of magazines. It was that iconic picture of that American soldier post-9/11 at the start of the war holding a wounded Iraqi boy as his unit was fighting its way up to Baghdad. It looked like Joseph came home in one piece, a hero. While it may have seemed that he came home in one piece because he didn't have some of the physical wounds of war that we unfortunately see from other heroes, he came back with post-traumatic stress disorder. PFC Dwyer died in 2008. Matina, his young widow, was left behind. Meaghan, his 2-year-old daughter, was left behind. This was an effort that was launched in his honor, the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support program. It is for our veterans with post- traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. It provides a safe, confidential, and educational platform where all veterans are welcome to meet with other veterans to build vet-to-vet relationships in support of one another's successful transition from military life to post-service life. We were able to conduct 148 group sessions, serving 450 veterans in my home county of Suffolk, just in the first year. Since 2013, the program has helped, now, into the thousands, as we count veterans from across New York with PTSD and TBI. Through my bill, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs would be authorized to make grants to State and local entities to carry out peer-to-peer mental health programs. The bill would secure $25 million over a 3-year period to establish a grant program at the VA that will provide up to $250,000 in funding for all selected entities, such as nonprofits, congressionally chartered VSOs, or State or local agencies to implement the peer-to-peer program. Let's think about that--$250,000. The Denver VA Hospital construction project, originally budgeted for just over $600 million, is operating $800 million to $900 million over budget--$800 million to $900 million over budget. The Department of Veterans Affairs came to a Committee on Veterans' Affairs hearing, which I am proud to serve on that committee, and they said that they are operating off what they referred to as an artificial budget. Has anyone ever heard of an artificial budget? I had one colleague who was asking for when she was going to get a timeline of when we would have an actual budget. Unable to get an answer, she asked the follow-up question, not trying to embarrass the Department. She ended up asking the follow-up question of when she was going to get a timeline of when she was going to get a timeline of when we were going to have an actual budget. When $800 million to $900 million ends up getting spent over budget, think of the hundreds of veterans in one county alone who could be helped for just $200,000. The money is there. When the Secretary of the VA, when the Department of Veterans Affairs signs off on a relocation and incentive bonus for one of their own, whose position is in Washington, D.C., and she wants to go to Philadelphia, where her family is, and take over a position in charge of their Veterans Affairs hospital, she arranges a move to get the person, the gentleman in charge of the Philly VA hospital moved to Los Angeles. So now she gets the job she wanted. She is closer to family, and she gets herself a relocation and incentive bonus over $200,000. The Office of Inspector General was outraged. They made a report recommending that this gets referred to the Department of Justice. The Department of Veterans Affairs was so outraged at this report from the inspector general that they ended up turning on their own inspector general, not referring anything to the Department of Justice. One of the responsibilities of this House is oversight. You look at our Constitution. Article I is long, all the powers granted to Congress. Look at the powers of the President and the executive. It is short. Within that article, it talks about the oversight of this body, oversight to make sure that money is being spent appropriately, wisely, efficiently, and that people are held accountable when they are not doing the right thing on behalf of our veterans. My bill would effectively and efficiently, as it has proven, provide 24/7 peer-to-peer mental health services by trained peer specialists for veterans, Reservists, and National Guardsmen wherever and whenever they are needed. In addition, the Dwyer program will provide group and individual meetings to help foster a greater sense of inclusion and community amongst our veterans and, as I mentioned earlier, the program also addresses the many privacy concerns that veterans and other servicemembers have, as the Dwyer program representatives themselves will be veterans and would not be responsible to the Department of Veterans Affairs, therefore easing reporting concerns. This is a bill that I have been working on since I took office in January 2015, working closely with the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs that I serve on, the American Legion, other VSOs, the National Disability Rights Network, various healthcare providers on Long Island, as well as my Veterans Advisory Panel, which is made up of representatives from veterans groups and veterans themselves. I want to thank the Dwyer family for all the inspiration the sacrifice of Joseph has provided to so many in our community and our country, and for me included. There would not be a Dwyer program in the State of New York without the sacrifice of Joseph Dwyer. I want to thank the county of Suffolk and specifically Tom Ronayne, who runs the Veterans Service Office, for the countless hours and the love that he and his team have put into this effort that we talk about here tonight on the House floor; to Chris Delaney, Joseph's friend, who has served our country as well as Tom has and has done so much through his work with 9-1-1 Veterans and also serving on my Veterans Advisory Panel. I think of so many individuals who have given so much of their personal time to make this work. It is an honor to be here on behalf of that team advocating for this cause. I unapologetically love my country. I believe that we live in the greatest Nation in the world. I will say that the highlight of my day during my time in Iraq was going back to my tent at the end of the day. There would be care packages waiting for us from strangers--8-year- olds, 9-year-olds from other corners of the country--with pictures of tanks and flags and soldiers, cards saying, ``Thank you for your service.'' The generation that came before me didn't get that treatment. Just think. Right now we have servicemembers in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere who were 4 years old on 9/11. Their entire generation, it is all they know. They went through their entire life, from 4 years old to today, knowing exactly what they were signing up for; and actually knowing what they were signing up for gave them all the motivation and inspiration in the world they needed to put on that uniform. It is a great feeling the first time you get to put on our Nation's uniform. For me, it wasn't a feeling that I had about myself when I looked in the mirror and I saw myself wearing a uniform. It was thinking of those generations who came before us, like our Nation's Greatest Generation. It is a challenge for our generation to earn the title of our Nation's next Greatest Generation. Maybe that generation is now serving here in this Chamber where 31 Members of the House are under the age of 40, including new Members who have come in who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. As I think about that 8-year-old and 9-year-old who wrote that card to that stranger they did not know and as we stand here today enjoying our freedoms, we think of those who are in harm's way--strangers--we don't know them--they are going to come back after seeing things none of us would ever want to see in our lives. And will we be there for them? Mr. Speaker, there is one other bill that was filed in this Chamber called the Fairness for Veterans Act. An Iraq veteran from Long Island, Kristofer Goldsmith, received a general discharge, which is a less- than-honorable discharge. As a result, he doesn't have the same veterans benefits that someone who is separated with an honorable discharge would receive. He came back with post-traumatic stress disorder. He attempted to take his own life. When your post-traumatic stress disorder ends up leading to a discharge with a less-than-honorable discharge, isn't it our responsibility to ensure that they have the ability to diagnose and treat their post-traumatic stress disorder? What if they are applying for an upgrade of their discharge status? Should we put the burden on that veteran to prove that the circumstances that led to their discharge is connected to their post- traumatic stress disorder? No. This bill addresses that by putting the burden on the government to show that the circumstances weren't connected to what led to that discharge. We must fight for all our veterans who are willing to fight for us. My bills will bring much-needed support--the Dwyer Program and the Fairness for Veterans Act--to millions of veterans, if you think of all those not only serving now, but in the future, and their families. Passing these bills and others to address veterans' mental health is of the highest priority for many of us in this Chamber. I will work every day in Congress to spread awareness of these two bills and gather cosponsors and the support of veterans groups and mental health organizations from all across the country so that we pass this bill as soon as possible. One last word about our families. We often say thank you to our veterans, as we should. We say thank you to our first responders, our law enforcement, our volunteer firefighters, our EMTs. There are so many people who try to give back and who believe in service because they love their community, their State, their country. They want to give back. They want to leave this place better than they found it. When I was in Iraq this past Christmas, I met the Command Sergeant Major for the 82nd Airborne Division. He is on his 11th deployment. I spoke earlier about that veteran who was 4 years old on 9/11. We also have that Command Sergeant Major of the 82nd Airborne Division who was on his 11th deployment. My daughters were born 14\1/2\ weeks early. They were less than a pound and a half when they were born. They spent their first 3\1/2\ months in the hospital. After they came out of the hospital--I was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, at the time--I came across this woman who had three sets of triplets. She lost one from each set. All six of her kids had special needs. Her shopping cart was full. Her husband was on another deployment to Iraq. With a smile on her face, with a very positive attitude, she is telling my wife and I all the resources that were available to us on Fort Bragg so that we could be better parents. That was the last time my wife or I would ever have the nerve to feel sorry for ourselves for what we were going through with our daughters. They came home with about a dozen medications and heart monitors. They were going through a hard time. But this woman, with her husband on another deployment, her shopping cart full, with six special needs kids with her as she is walking through the Fort Bragg commissary, with that positive attitude and a smile on her face, helping us be better parents, I realized that, when she was going to go home, no one was going to be waiting with an outstretched hand and a hug and say: Thank you for your service. These bills and this effort tonight are for our veterans and their families in need, and it is the way that we give back. This is how to say a proper thank you. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I commend Representative Sinema for her efforts on behalf of the Somers family. We lose a lot of our sons and daughters in harm's way, and there is reflection for that family as to what that sacrifice accomplished. I guess it depends on the year, the place, the circumstances. But the Somers family knows that they have a champion here fighting on their behalf so that the sacrifice was not for naught. A legacy is left behind that those who struggle moving forward might have a helping hand. I thank Ms. Sinema for her advocacy not just on behalf of the Somers family in her district, but for all of our veterans who need more help all across America. At this time, I would like to recognize the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Rothfus) and thank him for his efforts in his home State and for joining this cause tonight on behalf of our veterans who not only are going to benefit from the immediate effort of this Chamber with all the different ideas that are before it now, but really for the decades and generations still to serve ahead. I yield to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Rothfus).

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, tonight I rise on behalf of our veterans who return home with the mental wounds of war. For generations, we have sent our sons and daughters into harm's way. For generations, they have served this country honorably. They don't come home in the same way they left. There were generations who came back to the United States who didn't even receive a ``thank you.'' There was not even a handshake or a hug waiting for them. For our Vietnam veterans who are watching at home, we say to this day, ``welcome home,'' because when they first came home, they were spat on. Fortunately, we have learned a lesson from that generation. For me and my generation, as we return from Iraq and Afghanistan, there is a ``thank you,'' but there is so much more that needs to be done. That is why we are here tonight for this Special Order. It is on behalf of our veterans who return home with the mental wounds of war. Each and every one of our congressional districts is home to these veterans. For me, I represent Suffolk County, New York, on the east end of Long Island. We are proud of not only having the highest veterans' population of any county in New York, but of having the second highest veterans' population of any county in the country. We have veterans who come home to family, to friends, and to people with whom they work who don't understand what it is their loved one or colleague is going through. Isolated and alone, too many of our veterans are losing their struggles with posttraumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, and there is so much more that each and every one of us can do on their behalf. Tonight is a bipartisan Special Order. We are joined by my colleague from Arizona, who has led the fight on a national level on behalf of men and women from all corners of this country who are struggling with recoveries from suicide attempts, and who has led in the effort to prevent that attempt in the first place. I yield to the gentlewoman from Arizona (Ms. Sinema).

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous materials on the topic of this Special Order.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. I would like to congratulate the gentleman from Pennsylvania on his recent promotion to general and for all of his service not just here in Congress, but also in uniform. This week President Obama sent an incomplete plan to Congress to close the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. This plan would send terrorists back home overseas and even bring high-risk terrorists to detention centers here in the United States. There are still so many unanswered questions with regard to the President's proposal, for example, what happens when we capture the next 2 or 10 or 30 terrorists? Where are we going to question them? Where are we going to detain them? What is the exact placement inside the United States for those detainees currently in GTMO? Also, what legal protections and rights will detainees have if we bring them into the U.S. and into our civilian court system? Make no mistake. These detainees at GTMO are the worst of the worst of the worst. All the variables left out of the President's plan shows that this really isn't a plan. It is a political campaign pledge from 8 years ago. The facility at Guantanamo Bay has not only served as a place to keep some of the most dangerous terrorists in the world, but also as a tactical and strategic facility where intelligence is gathered to prevent potential attacks against our country and ensure U.S. national security. While the President was speaking this week, it was reported that a former prisoner at Guantanamo Bay was one of four terror suspects affiliated with ISIS who was arrested for his alleged role in plotting terror attacks in Spain. Just one week earlier another former prisoner at Guantanamo was pictured in a number of videos that called for jihad against the Saudi Kingdom and the Western world. These two cases are not just coincidence. Just a few months ago the Office of the Director of National Intelligence reported that one-third of freed Guantanamo prisoners are either suspected or confirmed of returning to terrorist activities. One-third. The President is willing to compromise the security and safety of American lives for the sake of his own legacy. Bringing dangerous terrorists to U.S. soil is a dangerous political move that could not come at a worse time, as groups like ISIS continue to spread across the Middle East, Europe, and the rest of the world. Again, Guantanamo is a key strategic and national security asset. For the sake of our national security, I will do everything in my power to ensure that the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay remains open. I would rather have terrorists in GTMO or dead than in U.S. detention facilities or back on the battlefield.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, this week I introduced legislation in the House to expand the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Program to the national level. PFC Joseph Dwyer was from Mount Sinai, New York, located in my home district of Suffolk County. PFC Dwyer served in Iraq and received nationwide recognition for a photograph that went viral, showing him cradling a wounded Iraqi boy while his unit was fighting its way up to the capital city of Baghdad. Sadly, after returning home and struggling with PTSD, PFC Dwyer died in 2008 and left behind a young widow, Matina, and a 2-year-old daughter, Meagan. In 2012, while serving in the New York State Senate, I created the Dwyer Program as part of the 2012-2013 State budget. Originally in four counties, including Suffolk, this program has since expanded to over a dozen counties throughout New York. The Dwyer Program is a peer-to-peer support program for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. The program provides a safe, confidential, and educational platform where all veterans are welcome to build vet-to-vet relationships, supporting each other's transition from service to post- service life. During the first year alone, we were able to conduct 148 group sessions, serving 450 veterans just within Suffolk. Since 2013, the program has helped over 1,500 veterans in New York State battling PTSD and TBI. With the success that we have had in New York, I know that, if we make this program national, we will ensure that every veteran across America will eventually have access to a peer-to-peer support group. With the VA reporting that an estimated 22 veterans a day commit suicide, this national effort is long overdue. We must ensure that all veterans across America receive the proper care they need and deserve. I will be working hard to spread awareness of my bill, gather cosponsors and the support of veteran groups and mental health organizations from all across the country so that we can pass this bill as soon as possible. We Must Act Now on the Zika Virus

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, shifting gears, on a completely separate topic, I also rise today to discuss the mosquito-borne Zika virus, which has spread at rapid rates across South America, Central America, and the Caribbean, infecting individuals in more than 25 countries. Zika has caused widespread alarm across the global community after Brazil reported a rise in the reported cases of microcephaly, a disease that leads tragically to a baby being born with an unusually small head and brain damage. What is so concerning about the Zika virus is how easily it can spread. The virus is spread not only through a mosquito bite, but also by contact with infected blood or sexual contact. Furthermore, there is currently no vaccine to prevent or any medicine to treat the virus. All these factors have led the World Health Organization to declare the Zika virus a public health emergency. Confirmed cases of the Zika virus have been popping up across the U.S., including at least three confirmed cases in my home district of Suffolk County, Long Island. With the recent outbreaks and the number of Zika cases among travelers visiting or returning to the United States, it is only a matter of time before this becomes a widespread epidemic right here at home. This is why we must act now. I recently introduced legislation, the Counterterrorism Screening and Assistance Act of 2016, H.R. 4314, which passed the House Committee on Foreign Affairs with bipartisan support. One key aspect of this legislation is that the bill would put in place a monitoring system that would screen for infectious diseases abroad to contain and prevent any potential outbreaks. The bill also helps quarantine the virus, authorizing the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide equipment and supplies to mitigate the risk or threat of infectious diseases such as Zika. This is a measure that is long overdue to protect not only our homeland from terrorism, but also to ensure that we are prepared to combat the spread of any infectious diseases. With this bill's passage out of committee, it is clear that my colleagues in Congress share my view. I will continue to push for full passage of my Counterterrorism Screening and Assistance Act in the House and urge my colleagues to bring this bipartisan bill to the House floor for a vote.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay a special tribute to the incredible life of Mr. Joseph Fazio. Born in 1916 in the Bronx, Joseph was the oldest son of 5 children. Tragically, when Joseph was in high school his father passed away, forcing him to quit school so that he could provide for his family. After receiving a small loan from a friend, Joseph bought his own truck and subsequently started a trucking business. He worked tirelessly for his customers to ensure they received the best possible service year after year. Joseph's altruism is only one of the many qualities that make him such a wonderful and caring person. Joseph retired at the age of 65 so that he could truly appreciate the community of Mastic Beach full-time; however, you would not know that by the way he has maintained such an active role in the town's affairs. To name a few of his many contributions to Mastic Beach: Joseph has built floats for the Mastic Beach Parade; built benches for the docks; volunteered for the Annual Seafood Festival; was the former Director of the Mastic Beach Property Owners Association; and enjoys playing the piano for other seniors. When he's not busy helping his fellow community members, he takes great pleasure in gardening, planting hundreds of tomato plants and many varieties of vegetables. He is known as the Beloved Farmer of Mastic Beach, as he generously shared the treasures of his garden with friends throughout the Tri-Hamlet Community. Joe is also a long standing member of St. Jude Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus. Joseph will be turning 100 years old on March 27, 2016. Joseph, and his lovely wife Ann, are the proud parents of 2 children, 5 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. Good food, good family, good friends and a strong belief in God have kept him going to 100. I am blessed to serve and represent such an incredible human being like Joseph Fazio in the First Congressional District of New York, and proud to express my gratitude for all he does for his community; as well as wish him a very happy 100th birthday.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 15th anniversary of National Motivation Day. National Motivation Day was originally introduced by my predecessor, Congressman Felix Grucci, in 2001. The goal of National Motivation Day was to call for a renewed sense of national motivation shortly following the devastating terror attacks against our country on September 11, 2001. As we enter into a new year, many of us will use this time as a moment of reflection. I ask my esteemed colleagues to keep in mind the goal of National Motivation Day and let it continue to inspire us.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Boy Scouts of America Troop 349, which is based out of Smithtown, New York. It is said that only four percent of all young men involved in Scouting earn the rank of Eagle Scout, which is part of the reason the rank is so prestigious. Recently, Troop 349 recognized its 100th Eagle Scout award over its 45 year history. Thanks to the countless hours volunteered by adult leaders investing in our leaders of tomorrow, the future is looking brighter than ever. Again, I would like to congratulate the leaders of Troop 349, as well as the 100 young men who have earned the rank of Eagle Scout while in the troop, and thank them for their dedicated service to our community.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the service of Walter Hazlitt. It takes a special type of person to lead a life serving both country and community; Mr. Hazlitt is an example of this type of person. Mr. Hazlitt served as a Sergeant for three years in the U.S. Marine Corps in the Marine theatre in China where he selflessly protected our country during World War II. Following his service in the Marines, Mr. Hazlitt continued to serve his country and community, working diligently and tirelessly as both a Suffolk County Legislator and as a member of the Stony Brook Fire Department for fifty-five years, where he served as Chief and continues to serve today as Commissioner. In addition to the aforementioned, Mr. Hazlitt served as a member on the Board of Trustees at Suffolk Community College, dedicating his time to ensure that local youth on Long Island achieved the best education possible. Mr. Hazlitt currently resides in Stony Brook, NY and is married to Mrs. Elizabeth Hazlitt. His daughter, Elizabeth Emerson, has followed in her father's footsteps of public service by serving as a New York State Supreme Court Justice. What Mr. Hazlitt has managed to accomplish during his lifetime and give back to the country cannot be summarized in a few words; and it is my hope that many will follow in the footsteps of Mr. Hazlitt and give back to their country and community as graciously as he did. People like him are a rare breed and they help make our country and world a much safer and better place. Today, I thank Walter for his years of dedication and service to our country and community, and wish him only the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I, along with my colleague Mr. Courtney from Connecticut, rise today to honor the crew of the M.S. Shahan II. On September 14, 2015, a seemingly normal work commute turned into a life or death rescue mission. Al Yeomans, Ship's Mate; Cliff McGuigan, Ship's Mate; Jeffrey Krause, Security; Meghan Jackson, Environmental Safety and Occupational Health Specialist; Allyson Cooke, Document Control Specialist; Jennifer Knight, Administrative Assistant; and Hector Lavarreda, Procurement Manager, all a part of the workforce at the Plum Island Animal Disease Center, sprang into action after spotting two boaters off the coast of Old Saybrook, Connecticut. Upon arriving at the scene, the crew saw the boaters clinging to the fender of their sinking vessel and not wearing life jackets, which meant that a timely rescue was critical. Despite the rough conditions, Captain Peter Jordan managed to maneuver the ferry into position to deploy a rescue sling and hoist the boaters to safety. Once aboard, the crew rushed to protect the victims from hypothermia and shock. If not for the courageous efforts of the crew members, the story being told may have ended tragically. The actions undertaken by these crew members embody the spirit of American determination and the desire to help others when they need it most. It is important to recognize these individuals so that their selfless actions do not go unnoticed and can be commended by all. Today, we thank these crewmembers for their efforts and service to their communities.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Boy Scouts of America Troop 29, which is located in East Moriches, New York. Troop 29 was founded in 1915 and is celebrating its 100-year anniversary this year. Since its inception, over 1,000 young men have been involved in Troop 29, many of whom have reached great success later in life. Impressively, in Troop 29, 61 young men have achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. Today, I would like to congratulate Troop 29 on its 100-year anniversary and thank the Troop's members for their dedicated service to our community.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the service of Sal Quartararo. On December 7, 1941, Salvatore (Sal) Quartararo, and his three brothers and two sisters, the children of Anna and Peter who immigrated to the U.S. from Italy in the 1890s, sat in their lower east side Manhattan apartment as President Roosevelt's fateful words came over the radio. The Japanese had attacked Pearl Harbor, and for Sal and his family, life was about to change. One by one, Sal and his brothers; Ignatius, Liborio (Larry), and Philip (Phil) entered military service; his brothers in the Army and Army Air Corps, and Sal in the Navy. The brothers ensured their family was well represented in this two front war. Ignatius served in the infantry as a Private Tech Five stationed in Italy, Larry in the Army Air Corps as an aerial photographer in the Pacific, Phil a Sergeant and cook in the Army and at sea, Sal served on board the USS Sioux, an Auxiliary Tug (ATF-75) as a Radio Man Second Class. During his time in the South Pacific, Sal saw action in both Okinawa and Iwo Jima. With four sons now serving overseas, their father Peter proudly displayed four American flags on the checker cab he drove in Manhattan. Fortunately, through God's grace, Ignatius, Larry, Phil, and Sal would all return home safely. They each married, led productive lives, raised wonderful families and like most, moved to the suburbs--Sal and his family relocated to Elmont, and later Kings Park, Long Island. Now, 64 years later, we recognize Sal Quartararo and his three brothers, Ignatius, Larry and Phil for serving honorably and concurrently during World War II. The brothers' dedication and bravery during their service, work ethic and family values they demonstrated upon their return home are a tribute to the ``Greatest Generation''.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of Albert M. Woolley. Staff Sergeant Albert M. Woolley was born on February 13, 1925, in Victoria, Texas. On November 17, 1942, at the age of 17, with his parent's consent, and alongside his cousins and friends, he enlisted to serve in World War II. After completing the training for his military occupation specialty, motor vehicle maintenance, Albert was assigned to the 9th Army Air Corps and sent to England. At the age of 19, Albert took part in the heroic Invasion of Normandy, partaking in the 2nd wave and landing on Utah Beach. Albert recalls almost drowning when having to stand on the back of the landing craft and jumping into the tremendous waves with 60 pounds of equipment on his back. Sinking instantly, he was grabbed by another soldier, fortunately very tall, who pulled him up to the surface. Together, they swam to the shore where they were soon separated, never to see each other again. Advancing up Normandy Beach, Albert and his fellow soldiers victoriously combated a barrage of German machine gun and sniper fire strafing the shoreline. Following the infamous D-Day landing, Albert served in the French Campaign supporting Allied Forces until being honorably discharged on November 10, 1945. After five years on American soil, Albert was recalled in 1950 to active service, in support of the Korean Conflict, remaining oversees until the Armistice. After returning home, he continued his service and received orders to Westhampton, New York in 1964, only to soon again be in the Pacific. In 1967, Albert was given orders to Danang, Vietnam, fighting in and surviving the TET Offensive of 1968. In October 1977, Staff Sergeant Albert M. Woolley retired after 30 years of service. During this time, he received amongst numerous other decorations; two Air Force Longevity Service Awards, four Good Conduct Medals, and the Vietnam Campaign, Vietnam Service and French Campaign ribbons. Albert M. Woolley, who has been married to his wife Victoria for 68 years, is the proud father of five children. Their family has now grown to include 16 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Albert has served both his country and family well through his hard work and great sacrifice.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the service of Richard Landy. On December 8, 1942, at the age of 18, Richard Landy stepped forward to serve his country during World War II. He was assigned to serve in one of the most dangerous units in the armed forces, the newly established Naval Armed Guard. This assignment placed men in constant danger and threat of attack while guarding the often ill equipped merchant and naval support ships. Armed only with machine and deck guns, these men were tasked to protect these ships, the lifeline of the war effort, from enemy submarines, surface raiders and aircraft. During his time in service, Richard sailed on Landing Ship-Tank Class Landing Ships, such as the Francis Drake and Duquesne. His service began in the Mediterranean theatre during the Normandy Invasion, crossing the English Channel as his LST deployed American troops on Utah and Omaha Beaches as well as Free French Forces on Sword Beach. A signalman 2nd class, Richard served in three theaters of operation; the Mediterranean, the Pacific and Europe, receiving the Bronze Star Medal for each. With the thanks of a grateful nation, Richard was honorably discharged on January 3, 1946.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, tonight I rise in solidarity with the people of France in the aftermath of last Friday's horrific terror attacks in Paris. I also commend the French for their swift leadership in decisively and powerfully taking immediate action. They are delivering justice to those responsible for the cowardly attack on their innocent people. This latest attack wasn't just on France. No. This was an attack on all free nations targeted and threatened by the brutal and savage tactics of Islamic terrorists who oppose the basic freedoms and liberties of the free world. This is not an isolated incident or a final stand. Far from it. It could be France today and the United States tomorrow. I should point out that there is but one mandatory function constitutionally of the Federal Government. That is to provide for our national defense. This is a constitutional duty and a moral imperative that trumps any day of the week the charity of opening our doors to a Syrian who will blow himself or herself up on our streets in the name of Allah. I say, if an ISIS member wants to meet Allah, that we give them every opportunity to do so with a bomb from the air or a round of ammo from the end of a Navy SEAL rifle that you would never want to be on the wrong end of if you are the bad guy. The good news is this: It doesn't require an occupation or an enduring ground operation. I don't want that. No one wants that. But it does mean that our entire strategy must evolve quickly and effectively. We may have help from very motivated and a diverse capability of French, British, German, and now even Russians. We must understand that losing is not an option. What we can't do is put 50 Special Operations Forces on the ground in Syria, in the middle of a war zone, and then tell them they are not there on a combat operation. You can't tell that to them, their family, the entire free world. It is just divorced from the reality of what they will face every day on the ground. If you aren't going to send our servicemembers to win, do not send them at all. I would be happy to support a strategy to win if I actually believed the President had one. First and foremost, ID the threat. You cannot defeat a threat that you cannot or will not identify. Next, execute a strategy to win, not just tread water. It is not about getting them jobs. It is about wiping them off the face of the Earth. You annihilate the enemy. You don't contain it, especially not this enemy. You eliminate the threat. You don't literally, as a matter of policy, escort that threat across our borders. Here at home we must not move forward with the President's plan to bring in several tens of thousands of refugees, especially and so importantly, because we cannot identify who the bad ones are. Not one Syrian refugee should be brought into America without knowing with confidence that they do not pose a threat. We must not bury our heads in the sand or try to click our heels together to an alternate reality. Last week was Veterans Day. We were again reminded of the sacrifices that have been made through generations to protect our way of life. Let's honor their memory, treasure American greatness, stand up for freedom, and make sure what happened in Paris on Friday does not happen on our own home turf tomorrow.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. I thank Ms. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen for her inspiring leadership in bringing forth this bipartisan resolution. I am inspired as I listen to the words of Mr. Deutch and Mr. Engel as this is something that allows Americans to unite for a cause of strengthening our relationships with our friends, like Israel, ensuring that we treat our enemies as our enemies. Mr. Speaker, according to the Maariv daily, Palestinian Authority President Abbas said in a Ramallah address: We will not forsake our country, and we will keep every inch of our land. Every drop of blood spilled in Jerusalem is pure. Every Shahid will reach paradise, and every injured person will be rewarded by God. The Palestinian Authority President said he would insist that a future Palestinian state include East Jerusalem as its capital. He said: The Al-Aqsa Mosque is ours. The church is ours as well. They have no right to desecrate the mosque with their dirty feet. We won't allow them to do that. A top Hamas official in the Gaza Strip called on all of the Palestinians to turn their weapons against the Israelis, saying that Allah created man only to wage jihad and to plunge knives into the chests of the enemies. We hear a lot of talk about the pursuit of a viable two-state solution. It is not just about Israel and its recognizing the Palestinians' right to exist. It is also about the Palestinians and its recognizing Israel's right to exist. Yet the Palestinian Authority, by the day, is under more and more influence of an element that will not rest until the other side is wiped off the map. I was disturbed when the Secretary of State's spokesperson, John Kirby, said: Individuals on both sides of this divide are, have been proven capable of, and, in our view, are guilty of acts of terrorism. Last month the State Department claimed that the Temple Mount status quo was violated. I was just there a couple of months back. I was at a place called Decks Restaurant in Tiberias. It is right on the Sea of Galilee. The owner of the restaurant got on the microphone--the place was crowded with locals--and she started preaching about her love of America, about her appreciation of the strength of that bond between the U.S. and Israel. As she is saying this, a boat pulls in off the Sea of Galilee and starts setting off fireworks. As the fireworks start blowing off, they start playing ``God Bless America'' over the loud speaker. All the locals stood up and were singing along, and if they didn't know the words, they were lip-syncing it. It was such a proud moment. Where else in the world can you go where you will find a restaurant at which the owner will get on the microphone and start talking about her love of America? I value the relationship that we have with our friends, such as Israel. We didn't see the Israeli Prime Minister going on international TV trying to embarrass the President of the United States after there was a hospital strike, which the President took responsibility for. It is important that we don't embarrass our allies and that we stand with them in tough times. Right now we stand with innocent victims in Israel, who are being targeted by terrorist attacks through the incitement of violence by the leadership of the Palestinian Authority. That is why I am so proud to stand here today with Ms. Ileana Ros- Lehtinen for, again, her consistent and strong dedication and leadership and for her determination in ensuring that this body stands united with Israel every single day.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. The Congress is not on the clock, because we haven't received the entire agreement. And for anyone out there who wants to be supportive of this deal, let's think what the President was telling the American public and all of us. The House has a deal that wasn't based on trust; it is built on verification. How do you support a deal based on verification without knowing what the verification is? I would be happy to yield if anyone wanted to stand up and explain how you support a deal without knowing what the verification is. You can't. That is why we are asking for it. And for those who say that opposing this deal is somehow negative towards America, I took an oath to be an officer of the United States military, willing to fight and die in protection of our freedoms and liberties. I love this country. I took an oath to serve here the members of my district because I love America. So don't tell me that somehow opposing this deal is negative toward America. I oppose this deal because I love my country.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. I thank the chairman for his leadership on the Veterans' Affairs Committee and for his unyielding passion toward always putting veterans first. I thank the great staff as well on both sides of the aisle with the Veterans' Affairs Committee. It is a pleasure to serve with all of them. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening in support of H.R. 675, which has been amended to include my bill, H.R. 1569, the Veterans Estate Transfer to Survivors Act, or the VETS Act. I am honored to represent the First Congressional District of New York, which is located on the east end of Long Island. My district is in the County of Suffolk, which has the largest veterans population of any county in New York and the second highest in the entire country. With so many veterans in my home county, I am extremely proud to serve on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. With the passage of H.R. 675, the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of- Living Adjustment Act of 2015, which has been amended to include my bill, H.R. 1569, veterans are securing a big victory here in the Halls of Congress. The VETS Act is a commonsense reform to the VA benefit payouts that will help veterans and their families on Long Island and across the country as my legislation would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to pay certain benefits that were earned by a veteran to the veteran's estate. Under current law, if a veteran passes away while the VA is still reviewing a claim, the VA no longer has to award the earned benefits. Currently, only a veteran's spouse, minor child, or dependent parent is eligible to collect the accrued benefits. By adding the estate to the current list of beneficiaries, adult children can now also receive the benefits earned should there be no other qualifying family members. My bill ensures our veteran families, who rightfully earned and deserve their benefits, actually receive their benefits even after the veteran passes away. I encourage all of my colleagues to support H.R. 675.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Doctor Mei Bai, whose innovation and leadership at the Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory on Long Island, New York, in my district, has greatly impacted the field of nuclear physics. This month she receives the E.O. Lawrence Award, a prestigious award bestowed by the Department of Energy for exceptional scientific achievement. Dr. Bai joined Brookhaven National Lab in 1999 as a research associate in the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) Accelerator Physics Group, was promoted to Associate Scientist in 2001, and to Scientist in 2004. In 2000, she was the recipient of the American Physical Society's Outstanding Doctoral Thesis Research in Beam Physics Award. In 2010, the Asian Committee for Future Accelerators and the organizing committee of the 2010 First International Particle Accelerator Conference awarded Bai a prize for her significant and original contributions to the field of accelerator research. Dr. Bai recently joined the Nuclear Physics Institute in Germany, which conducts experimental and theoretical basic research in the areas of nuclear, hadron, and particle physics. In the 1990s, Dr. Bai and her colleagues devised a way to keep protons circulating in an accelerator polarized, or all spinning in the same directions on their axes. This was a crucial development which was successfully demonstrated at Brookhaven National Laboratory's Alternating Gradient Synchrotron, which is an accelerator that is a key part of the RHIC complex. This week, Dr. Mei Bai is being honored with an E.O. Lawrence award for her outstanding research, which has allowed for the first direct measurement of the contributions of fundamental particles known as quarks and gluons to the spin of the proton. Physicists from around the world study polarized protons at RHIC to determine the answer to a fundamental question--how protons get their spin, an intrinsic property of the particle that is not completely understood. Dr. Bai's work enabled RHIC researchers to successfully accelerate individual beams of polarized protons to 255 billion electron volts of energy. The beams were collided at a total mass energy of 510 billion electron volts, making RHIC the world's first and only high energy polarized proton collider. Today, I thank her for her enthusiasm and the inspiration she provides to other scientists at Brookhaven National Lab and the international community. I congratulate Dr. Bai on her accomplishments and this very significant award.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this amendment. My daughters just completed third grade, and I strongly support higher standards for them and their generation, but we need to set up our children to succeed, not fail. We need to stop federally mandated overtesting in our schools. This amendment would be a giant leap backwards for education reform. Rather than reforming the failed policies of No Child Left Behind, this amendment embraces the most problematic portions, continuing to obsess over federally mandated performance standards and using that to measure teacher performance. What is most insulting is that this proposal is so flawed that the sponsor needs to leverage Federal money to lure cash-strapped States to buy in because the proposal doesn't stand on its own merits. Our schools need greater flexibility and local control. This amendment would do the exact opposite, which is why I strongly oppose its passage and encourage all my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. ZELDIN

Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from Florida for her leadership on this important issue, your leadership with America's foreign policy. I know that my constituents all the way up in New York are more secure and free due to your work through the years here in the Halls of Congress. I thank you for your leadership. This past weekend we celebrated the Fourth of July, 239 years since America declared its independence. What makes America great is what we stand for: freedom and liberty. And then there is Iran, the world's largest state sponsor of terror, a nation overthrowing foreign governments, unjustly imprisoning United States citizens, including a United States Marine. Iran blows up mock U.S. warships, develops ICBMs. They pledge to wipe Israel off the map. And in their streets, in their halls, they are chanting, ``Death to America.'' And none of what I just described is even part of the negotiations. Think about that. The President says the only alternative to whatever deal he presents us with is war. I reject that. The deal the President is finalizing may actually pave the path to more instability in the Middle East and a nuclear arms race triggered in the region. Will the agreement be accurately translated between both languages? If the President presents Americans with a version in English and the Iranians are interpreting any different terms refuting our interpretation of that agreement in English, then there is no agreement. There is no meeting of the minds. Will Iran continue spinning centrifuges, enriching uranium and maintaining any of their nuclear infrastructure? Will weapons inspectors have unfettered access to Iran's nuclear infrastructure? Honestly, I doubt it. I believe that we are propping up the wrong regime in Iran. Six years ago, the Green Revolution, millions of Iranians took to the streets protesting after an undemocratic election. The economy in Iran was doing better at that time than it is today. Oil, twice the value as today. The President said that what was going on in Iran was none of our business, and look where we are today. I unapologetically love my country, and I am proud to be an American. As elected officials who took an oath to protect and defend our Constitution, we have a responsibility to protect our country. We must fight on behalf of our great Nation, which generations before us have fought and sacrificed so much to protect. And that is how we celebrate another 239 years of American exceptionalism. The President, when sitting down at the negotiating table, inherits the goodwill of generations, centuries of men and women who have come before them that sacrificed so much to make America the greatest Nation in the world. When someone says they want to run to be President of the United States, with that, you inherit all of that goodwill, all of that American exceptionalism. And when sitting at the table, you have no business trying to equalize yourself with the person you are negotiating with. That isn't your goodwill to expend. It is important for American greatness to grow. And I am concerned that we are on pace to enter into a bad deal with Iran. Here, with the leadership of colleagues like the gentlewoman from Florida, who I am very grateful for putting together this Special Order tonight, and other colleagues, like the gentleman from Florida, who will be speaking right after me, there is so much passion amongst my colleagues for wanting to do the right thing to protect our Nation, understanding that it is a fundamental basic that the United States strengthens our relationships with our allies and treats our enemies for exactly who they are. I used the analogy a couple of weeks ago of playing Texas Hold'em, and the President inherits pocket aces every time he sits down at the table. The Iranians may inherit the 7-2 off suit, the worst hand that you could possibly have in poker. The President, for whatever reason, as a negotiating style, will offer to switch hands. We saw it in Cuba, where dozens of good-faith concessions were made asking for nothing in return. Why is that? For one, the President isn't a very good negotiator. He still has a year and a half left on his second term in office, and I want him to strengthen his hand. He has it. He inherits it. That is what comes with being the President of the United States. That is what he signed up for. And what did we sign up for here in the Halls of Congress? To hold this President's feet to the fire if he chooses to sign a bad deal with Iran. I thank, again, the gentlewoman from Florida for her leadership. I am looking forward to hearing Mr. Yoho and his passionate words to follow. And I would encourage the President and Secretary Kerry, the leaders of the Obama administration, to do the right thing. Take a walk, strengthen your hand, and don't sell out America's goodwill.