[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 194 (Wednesday, December 14, 2022)]
[House]
[Pages H9843-H9848]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           JOYS AND CONCERNS

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under the Speaker's announced policy of 
January 4, 2021, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Ellzey) is recognized 
for 60 minutes as the designee of the minority leader.


                             General Leave

  Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members 
may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks 
and include extraneous material on the topic of this special order.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentleman from Texas?
  There was no objection.
  Mr. ELLZEY. Madam Speaker, thanks for sticking around.
  In July, I addressed the House floor with my version of a speech my 
childhood pastor would give every Sunday called ``Joys and Concerns.'' 
During this, he would highlight some of the remarkable things that 
members of the church were doing and some of their many 
accomplishments. He would also take this time to bring up prayer 
requests to unite as a congregation and to pray for our community and 
those in need.
  During my last speech, I followed his example, and I was able to 
bring attention to dozens of outstanding people living in Tarrant, 
Ellis, and Navarro Counties.
  I also asked those in this Chamber and across our Nation to join in 
prayer to help many who were struggling.
  Since that day, of course, a lot has happened, and my office has sent 
out hundreds of recognition letters across my district. Many 
constituents have written to my office to express their own joy or 
concern.
  So, today, I come before the House of Representatives to, once again, 
follow in my pastor's footsteps and do my own version of ``Joys and 
Concerns.''
  I think it is only fitting to start with those who give so much to us 
each and every day. October 28 is the day we set aside each year to 
celebrate and thank our first responders.
  My district, District 6 of Texas, has 20 police departments, 13 fire 
departments, and 3 sheriff's offices, currently. In the new district, 
it will go to nine sheriff's offices.
  Life as we know it would not be possible without the dedication that 
the brave men and women who serve in these departments exhibit each 
day.
  It would take hours to list off each officer who serves us, and while 
I do not have time to do that today, nor would anybody want me to, I 
want to take a moment and recognize the leaders of each department.

  Thank you to Chief Joe Wiser from Waxahachie, Carl Smith from 
Midlothian, Garland Wolf from Red Oak PD, Chief Dustin Munn from Ennis 
PD, John Thacker from Maypearl, Chief Tracy Aaron from Mansfield, Chief 
Scott McAuley from Italy, Chief Jesus Mancillas from Ferris, Chief 
Chris Amos from Milford, Chief John Zaidle from Palmer, Chief T.C. 
Lawhon from Blooming Grove, Chief Robert Johnson from Corsicana, Chief 
Scott Sykora from Dawson, Chief Charles Parson from Rice, Chief Daniel 
Scesney from Grand Prairie, Chief Roy Ivey from Kerens, Chief Al Jones 
from Arlington, Sheriff Brad Norman from Ellis County, Sheriff Elmer 
Tanner from Navarro County, Chief Bill Waybourn from Tarrant County, 
Chief Ricky Boyd from Waxahachie Fire, Chief Dale McCaskill from 
Midlothian Fire, Chief Ben Blanton from Red Oak, Chief Bill Evans from 
Ennis Fire, Chief Michael Ross from Mansfield Fire, Chief Jackie Cate 
from Italy Fire, Chief Brian Horton from Ferris Fire, Chief Mark 
Jackson from Milford Fire, Chief Kevin Rhoades from Palmer Fire, Chief 
Mike Ryan from Corsicana Fire, Chief Robert Fite from Grand Prairie 
Fire, Chief Don Crowson from Arlington Fire, and Chief Brandon Kennedy 
from the Ovilla Fire Department.

[[Page H9844]]

  You all go above the call each and every day, and it is my honor to 
recognize you.
  I also acknowledge the 30 applicants from Texas' Sixth Congressional 
District who want to serve in our Nation's military academies. It is an 
extreme honor as a 1992 Naval Academy graduate to pick the future 
generation of leaders for this country, both in the military and 
perhaps in statesmanship.
  These men and women raised their hands and said, ``I am here. Send 
me,'' and I recognize them here: Lucy Ballard from Mansfield Legacy, 
Alexander Brough from Mansfield High, Jacob Brown from Mansfield Lake 
Ridge, Marshall Cloyd from St. Stephen's Episcopal, Michael Cook from 
Mansfield High, Austin Garcia from Midlothian High, Shania Grant from 
iSchool Virtual Academy of Texas, Reid Griffin from James W. Martin 
High, Joseph Gutierrez from Ennis High, Julia Helsel from Arlington 
High, Brett Hoelscher from Arlington High, Jared Howell from Mansfield 
Legacy, Alexander Huh from Lake Braddock Secondary, Hieu Huynh from 
Arlington Bowie, Brian Larson from Nolan Catholic High, Ezra Lee from 
James W. Martin High, Noah Loughlin from Mansfield Lake Ridge High, 
Giovanni Mancuso from Midlothian High, Caitlyn New from Palmer High, 
Asher Nguyen from James W. Martin High, Ricardo Olivares, Jr. from 
Flower Mound High, Austin Palacios from Arlington Lamar High, Troy 
Roberts, Jr. from All Saints Episcopal School, Madison Rodriguez from 
James W. Martin High School, Audrey Rowe from Nolan Catholic High, 
Bahij Said from Kennedale High, Orion Villarreal from Jesuit Dallas 
College Prep, Justin Walker from Kennedale High, and Rylan Woodward 
from Broadneck High.
  These are all exceptional young men and women, and I want the 
American people to know, especially the people of Texas' Sixth 
District, that the future of our country is safe with young men and 
women like these.
  Next, I recognize members of our community that have gone above and 
beyond.
  James Reed, congratulations on being awarded Firefighter of the Year 
by the Corsicana Fire Rescue Department for 2022. Thank you for your 
sacrifices and for keeping our community safe.
  Detective Sergeant Travis Thurston, congratulations on being awarded 
Corsicana Kiwanis Deputy of the Year for 2022. This award is a tribute 
to your courageous and selfless acts as a law enforcement officer.
  This honor is well deserved, as you have shown exemplary 
contributions to law enforcement over the past year. Thank you for your 
service and for keeping our community safe.

                              {time}  2100

  Mattie Thayne: Congratulations on recently obtaining your Eagle Scout 
badge. The commitment, tenacity, integrity, and work ethic that are 
required to achieve the Boy Scouts of America's highest rank are 
invaluable qualities.
  Keith Moore: Congratulations on being inducted into the Navarro 
College Athletics Hall of Fame in 2022. Your hard work and dedication 
during the 1989 football season earned you and your teammates the 
first-ever NJCAA Team Championship for Navarro College. The effort that 
you put in to achieve a perfect 10-0 season is more than impressive, 
and I commend you on this distinguished award.
  Joe Wiser: Congratulations on being named the new police chief in 
Waxahachie starting in October. This is such a vital liaison between 
the police department and the community. The citizens of Waxahachie are 
fortunate to have you with your leadership experience and familiarity 
with the area.
  Jacen Stanford: Congratulations on your recent enlistment and the 
opportunities this brings for your future. You have taken a great oath, 
and with that comes great responsibility. Thank you for your 
willingness and commitment to serve in the United States Army and your 
noble desire to protect this great Nation and the men and women you 
stand beside. Godspeed, Jason.
  Sandy Faussett-Stoops: Congratulations on the achievement of 900 
career wins as a girls high school volleyball head coach. The many 
hours of practice and determination are reflected by your success on 
and off the court. There have been many exceptional volleyball players 
who have come through your program, and I know you have been very proud 
of all of them.
  Dana Compton: Congratulations on being awarded Civilian of the Year 
by the Mansfield ISD Police Department. This honor recognizes your 
commitment to the community that will leave a lasting impact for many 
years to come. Leaders provide the structure and organization that 
others aspire to have. I know that your work in our community as a 
police dispatcher will inspire others to exhibit the same leadership 
qualities that have enabled you to become successful and a great 
citizen.
  Officer Robert ``Sandy'' Blunck: Congratulations on being awarded 
Officer of the Year from Mansfield ISD Police Department for 2022. This 
award is a tribute to your sacrifice and courageous acts as a law 
enforcement officer. Thank you for your sacrifice and for keeping our 
community safe.
  Brek Bradshaw: Congratulations on winning a book writing contest to 
have your book ``Chicken Bot and the Golden Egg'' published. I am 
pleased to hear about the talented young students in our community who 
commit time and dedication to leaving such a positive impact in their 
city for many years to come. We are truly blessed to have such an 
artistic and intelligent student represent Waxahachie ISD so well.
  Charles Bush: Congratulations on being awarded Firefighter of the 
Year by the Navarro County Volunteer Firefighters Association for 2022. 
This award is a tribute to your courageous and selfless acts as a 
firefighter and first responder. Thank you for your sacrifice and for 
keeping our community safe.
  Barbara Kelley: Congratulations on your retirement from being a 
distinguished police telecommunicator for DART and the Navarro County 
Sheriff's Office. The people of Navarro County greatly appreciate your 
years of service, and you will be missed tremendously. It is an honor 
to recognize you for your 35 years of public service in law 
enforcement. Your outstanding performance has helped strengthen the 
relationship between public officials and community members. Your hard 
work and dedication have inspired others to lead and follow your 
exceptional example. The numerous contributions you have made to this 
community will have a lasting impact for many years to come.
  Madam Speaker, at this time I yield to the gentlewoman from North 
Carolina (Ms. Foxx.)
  Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding.
  Madam Speaker, employee-sponsored coverage is the bedrock of our 
healthcare system, and it is under attack by President Biden and the 
Democratic Party.
  Despite its name, the Affordable Care Act did nothing to make 
healthcare coverage more affordable. In fact, it did the opposite. 
Health coverage is now more expensive than ever.
  In 2008, before the passage of ObamaCare, the average annual premium 
for a family was $12,680. Today, it is $22,460. To make matters worse, 
experts say that 2022 is the calm before the storm, and employers are 
bracing for drastic cost increases in 2023 due to inflation, health 
worker staff shortages, and supply chain issues.
  It is imperative that Congress address the affordability, 
transparency, and accessibility of healthcare. I have said this 
repeatedly: I will not stand by while the Federal Government burdens 
Americans with heavy-handed policies.
  Now Democrats are using their self-made affordability crisis to move 
all Americans to Medicare for All. The Biden administration has 
continued its march towards total government control by illegally 
expanding ObamaCare subsidies. Expanding ObamaCare and its unfettered 
spending continues to drive inflation, adds billions of dollars to the 
Federal deficit, and makes health insurance less affordable.
  Despite the pandemic being over, President Biden has also failed to 
end the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, PHE, prolonging Americans' 
dependence on the Federal Government.
  The American people deserve to know the Biden administration's plans 
to wind down the PHE and transition the procurement and distribution of

[[Page H9845]]

COVID-19 vaccines, therapeutics, and testing to the commercial market 
quickly.
  Furthermore, it is imperative that we continue to protect access to 
telehealth as part of this off-ramp plan. The COVID-19 pandemic 
revealed that virtual visits can fill glaring gaps in healthcare access 
nationwide.
  Congress allowed coverage for pre-deductible virtual visits for the 
duration of the PHE. Around 90 percent of high deductible health plans 
took advantage of that provision this year, up from approximately 80 
percent in 2021 and 60 percent in April 2020. This is clear proof that 
Americans need and are making use of increased access to telehealth.
  President Biden and Democrats may not have a plan to address these 
critical issues, but Republicans do. For the past year, House 
Republicans have worked to create the Commitment to America which 
includes policies to strengthen employer-sponsored coverage by 
increasing competition in the healthcare market, promoting price 
transparency, and lowering health coverage costs.
  Republicans also have plans to help employers lower costs by 
expanding access to association health plans and tax-advantaged health 
savings accounts. We plan to remove barriers that currently prevent 
employers from participating in advanced payment initiatives.
  We will reduce the administrative burden on business owners created 
by outdated ObamaCare paperwork mandates, and we will promote policies 
that transfer control of health spending back to the patient.
  We must shed the layers of bureaucracy blocking Americans from 
understanding the true cost of their care. This includes codifying the 
Trump administration's price transparency rule and building on the 
price transparency provision in the No Surprises Act.
  Time and time again, the Biden administration has failed to make the 
best use of taxpayer dollars. Democrats champion the idea of ``health 
for all'' and ``universal coverage,'' but they seriously fail to 
consider the adverse impact their policies have on inflation, costs, 
access, and quality.
  By contrast, Republicans will build on the bedrock of our healthcare 
system--employer-sponsored coverage. We are committed to making 
employer-sponsored healthcare and the healthcare market more 
affordable, transparent, and competitive.
  Madam Speaker, I thank Mr. Ellzey for giving me the opportunity.
  Mr. ELLZEY. It is a pleasure.
  Madam Speaker, continuing on with the folks whom we were talking 
about earlier:
  I would like to recognize and congratulate Charles ``Chuck'' Beatty.
  I congratulate you on having the new city hall annex in Waxahachie 
named after you. Your outstanding leadership and service to Waxahachie 
is greatly appreciated. You are a role model to your community, and I 
commend you on your willingness to serve and your dedication to our 
community.
  Zane Petty: Congratulations on being drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers 
in the 2022 MLB draft. Your hard work and dedication during this past 
baseball season have earned you a spot as one of the top DFW area 
athletes. I know you will be successful in your time in Major League 
Baseball, and I look forward to watching you play soon.
  Mary Crowell: Congratulations on being awarded Volunteer of the Year 
for the Baylor, Scott & White Hospital Ladies Auxiliary for 2022. This 
award is a tribute to your courageous and selfless acts volunteering in 
healthcare and the exemplary contributions you have shown to the 
hospital over the past several months. Over the course of this year, 
you have served as a role model for many in the Ellis County area. Your 
many hours of service have strengthened the bonds and trust that have 
brought people together over the past year.
  Calvin Simpson-Hunt: Congratulations on being named to the All-
American Bowl for football this year. Your combination of character and 
athletic ability has allowed you to earn such an incredible honor that 
is well-deserved.
  Danny Combs: Thank you for helping to start and continue the Kerens 
Veterans Memorial and Museum. The selflessness of veterans like 
yourself who answered our Nation's call to serve defines the true 
character of your generation. We continue to remain indebted to all 
those who have worn the uniform and sacrificed their all for our 
beloved freedom.
  Brian and Jeanie Harding: Thank you for volunteering with other 
members of Midway Hills Christian Church and Refugee Services of Texas-
Dallas, to set up a complete apartment for refugee families from the 
Democratic Republic of the Congo and from Honduras in May, September, 
and November.

                              {time}  2110

  Lisa West: I want to congratulate you on your retirement from 
Corsicana ISD after 36 years. Lisa has served children of all ages in 
the public education sector and special education. Thank you for your 
years of service to our community.
  I also want to recognize today an American hero, Lieutenant Commander 
Richard Charles Dawson, better known as Dick. Just last month I had the 
opportunity to present the Bronze Star Medal with Combat V to 
Lieutenant Commander Dawson. What many may not know is that this Bronze 
Star is the third highest that our military can award to a 
servicemember. Any time this award is given, it is a tremendous honor. 
But his was even more special because Lieutenant Commander Dawson 
served our Nation in combat operations against our enemies in Vietnam 
from April 1967 through March 1968. First of all, welcome home, sir.
  This past April, Dick received a most unusual phone call. He was told 
that Captain David Brown, his former commanding officer of Coastal 
Division 11 was in the process of moving his home. Captain Brown had 
discovered the original documentation supporting Dick's nomination for 
the Bronze Star with Combat V.
  Captain Brown then realized that the Department of the Navy had not 
received the original package sent 54 years ago. After an 
investigation, Captain Brown organized a small team to help correct 
this oversight.
  The paperwork was resubmitted and approved. It was an honor to be a 
part of the ceremony. It proved that bipartisanship is alive and well 
in Washington, D.C., and that we put America first, and we take care of 
those who have taken care of us. Thank you, sir, for all you have done 
for your country.
  As an aside, I thank the Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro, for 
approving this award, it was well-deserved, and thank you for your 
timeliness on it.
  These are just a few examples of some outstanding people living in 
Texas' Sixth District. So when you think that there is no hope in this 
country, know that there is. There are good people like this everywhere 
across our country, I am just talking about the folks in the Sixth 
District, and it is my privilege to honor them on the House floor.
  Every Sunday, after the joys would, of course, come the concerns, and 
there was never a shortage because everyone knew in Matthew, he says, 
``When two or three are gathered in My name, I am in the midst of 
them.'' And at times like these, everybody is in need in some way or 
somehow, especially during the Christmas season.
  I will start with a concern from Katherine Bongfeldt. She asks that 
we all pray for the safety of our allies who are still in Afghanistan. 
That those brave men and women who helped when we needed it most are 
protected and safe during these uncertain times in their country--and I 
sure hope we get them out.
  I ask that you keep the Estes, Williams, and Tribbles families in our 
prayers, for they have all lost a loved one. Anyone who has lost a 
mother, father, brother, or sister knows how challenging these times 
can be, especially during the holidays.
  Mary from Ennis, Texas, would like us to keep an open door during 
this holiday season. Many out there do not have a place to call home or 
a family to have dinner with. Thank you, Mary.
  Please pray for the family of Officer Brandon Tsai. Officer Tsai from 
Grand Prairie Police Department was killed in a collision last month 
while pursuing a driver fleeing a traffic stop.
  On October 16, Coach Cliff White from Midlothian High School lost his 
battle with cancer and Midlothian lost

[[Page H9846]]

a pillar of their community. Coach White was more than a coach to his 
students, he was a mentor. Even during his hardest days, you would find 
him at every sporting event cheering on his teams. You will be missed, 
Coach.
  I ask that you keep all Americans in your prayers. Keep joy in your 
hearts, hope in man, and faith in God.
  Next, I want to talk about somebody that many of us in Washington 
know well.
  On February 23, 1945, Hershel ``Woody'' Williams made history and was 
presented our Nation's highest military honor for his inspirational 
leadership and action in Iwo Jima; that is the Medal of Honor.
  On July 3, 2022, Woody once again made history by being the first 
enlisted man to ever be ``Lain in Honor'' here in our Nation's Capitol.
  Even in death, Woody served his country, for his funeral gave all 
Americans the opportunity to salute the 16 million men and women who 
served in our Armed Forces during the Second World War.
  In the 246-year history our country, no enlisted man had ever lain in 
honor under the dome of our Capitol. On July 3, American history was 
changed for the better.
  There are few things that can change this world more than a powerful 
child's idea--or a powerful idea from a powerful child. In 2014, 7-
year-old Rabel Josephine McNutt was preparing to attend her 
godfather's, Medal of Honor recipient, Walter Ehlers' funeral. Moved by 
what she saw, she turned to her father, Bill, and said: Daddy, let's 
get them to do a big funeral in Washington, D.C., for Uncle Walter's 
friends.
  So, Rabel and Bill got to work. The idea became a national cause with 
volunteer efforts conducted in all 50 States; Sixteen State 
legislatures passed resolutions, 15 congressional delegations wrote 
letters of support, 11 State Governors wrote to the White House, and 
the America Legion unanimously supported the mission at their 100th 
convention.
  Today, 35 million American families claim a parent, grandparent, or 
close relative who fought in World War II. Make no mistake, they are 
the reason we enjoy our freedoms today. The courage, devotion, and 
faith that brought us through World War II's perils are exemplified by 
the State funeral for these American heroes.
  To the 16 million men and women who gave their lives or sacrificed in 
some way so we can be here today, thank you and God bless. I would ask 
that in the future every Medal of Honor recipient that is still alive, 
that they get to lay in honor in the rotunda.
  Next, I want to recognize a man that has spent his entire life in 
service to his community. Chief Wade Goolsby has spent the last 42 
years in law enforcement and September 30 he said he was finally done.
  Chief Goolsby may call Waxahachie PD home now, but Waxahachie is not 
the only department that has changed for the better.
  He started his career with the Arlington Police Department where he 
worked patrol, investigations, and professional standards. After being 
promoted to sergeant, he served in leadership roles at the Coppell 
Police Department, the Southlake Police Department, and the Seguin 
Police Department before he landed home as the chief of police for 
Waxahachie where he has been for the last 7 years.
  If you ask the chief what the best part of his job is, without a 
doubt he will say catching the bad guys, and over his 42 years of 
service he did that a lot.
  I have known Wade for the last 7 years, and I can honestly say that 
the Waxahachie Police Department would not be where it is now without 
his leadership. I know his goal was to leave every department he worked 
at in a better place than when he started, and he did. You did it, my 
friend.
  I, and the people of Waxahachie thank you for your years of 
dedication and service and for keeping our community save.
  I wish both you and Sheryl a very happy retirement--whatever that 
looks likes. I know you will succeed in your next goal of having the 
best-looking yard.
  As I said before, my district had 30 applicants of young men and 
women eager to serve in our Nation's military academies. I had the 
opportunity to sit down and meet each of them a few weeks ago. If 
anybody is worried about the direction of our country, or if we will 
have strong leaders in the coming years, don't be.
  I would like you to meet my applicants. I promise you after meeting 
them, by listening to their essays, you will be filled with hope for 
our country. I want to take some time to read to you why these 
applicants want to serve in our Nation's military, why they believe in 
our country, and why they are hopeful for our future.
  I asked each of these candidates to write one, and after I read them, 
I was particularly touched by several of them. I was touched by all of 
them, but here are a few that I would like to present to you today.
  First is Michael Cook's, and these are his words:

       An education through a service academy is right for me 
     because I aspire to academically challenge myself, develop 
     essential skills for any environment I may encounter, enhance 
     my leadership ability, and most importantly, gain the 
     essential preparation to ultimately serve and protect the 
     United States of America.
       All of the academies offer a one-of-a-kind experience 
     academically, especially in the STEM fields, something that 
     pairs well with my desire to study mechanical engineering, or 
     a field closely related to it.
       Each academy offers a vast array of resources through 
     state-of-the-art labs and equipment; in addition, access to 
     high-level and experienced professors to ensure that each 
     cadet acquires the necessary skills to excel in engineering.
       Most importantly, the academies offer a real-world and 
     critical application for all labs and experiences.
       I have no doubt that access to these resources will allow 
     me to become the best academic version of myself and position 
     me to excel in any STEM-based career.
       Of equal importance to me is the dedication each academy 
     has to developing capable leaders in today's world. By 
     attending a service academy, I believe my leadership skills 
     will progress exponentially.
       Since participation in some form of sports is a 
     requirement, all students will learn valuable lessons through 
     teamwork and encounter opportunities to lead in some fashion.
       I know the coaches at the academy can use these lessons to 
     instill more refined leadership capabilities which will 
     translate into a career as an officer.
       The academy's rigor and plethora of experiences are key in 
     developing leaders, as I would be exposed to various 
     scenarios encountered in the military, thus further equipping 
     me to lead others.
       A service academy education is about more than a superior 
     experience academically; it uniquely pairs that with 
     preparing cadets to be officers and serve the United States 
     of America. Each academy offers a tough military regiment to 
     simulate military life.
       Programs such as SERE, the survival escape program, 
     parachutist programs, flight programs, sea year, and 
     countless other programs enhance the capabilities of cadets 
     as they see firsthand what it takes to be excellent leaders 
     in the United States of America's military.
       In my service, I want to be a combat rescue officer or 
     pilot. Through these extensive programs offered, I will 
     develop unique and tangible skills necessary to execute 
     missions as a pilot.
       Ultimately, any service academy, through the academic 
     rigor, leadership opportunities, and countless programs, will 
     develop me into the best version of myself and allow me to 
     serve our great Nation to the best of my ability.

                              {time}  2120

  The next is applicant Asher Nguyen.

       From computer coding to aviation warfare, the military 
     academies are prestige organizations that dedicate their 
     assets to train cadets, ultimately contributing to the 
     welfare of our Nation.
       I want to attend a military academy because I explored what 
     it takes to be an officer and I believe that I possess both 
     the leadership qualities and selflessness to pursue a 
     military career.
       Leadership is a key trait to serving in the military. 
     Taking initiative actions to guide companions is necessary to 
     pursue success. As the senior class president and as someone 
     who has taken many initiative roles in school clubs, I have 
     gained experience as a leader and a team player.
       From effectively heading a STEM leadership conference of 
     300-plus students and earning the title of ``Compelled'' in 
     football by leading with my actions, I learned to carry out 
     leadership responsibilities in school, which correlates to 
     carrying out responsibilities in the military.
       Participating in leadership opportunities opened the gates 
     and inspired me to guide those around me. Serving in the 
     Armed Forces would allow me to further cultivate my teamwork 
     and leadership skills, as well as help others.
       The opportunity to serve in the military would also allow 
     me to return the favor it did for my family.

  This is the important part that I want to express to you.


[[Page H9847]]


  

       My father escaped the horrors of the Vietnam war at the age 
     of 9. His boat was stranded. However, a naval ship appeared 
     and saved my father's family. This incident was instilled 
     into my father's core memory, which inspired him to serve in 
     the military.
       My father does play a small role in my inspiration to 
     attend and serve in the military. However, the main reason I 
     would like to serve is to help other families the way my 
     family was aided.
       Being granted the opportunity to help others the same way 
     my father was helped is a dream of mine. No matter the role 
     in the military, every action contributes to the welfare of 
     our country.
       Serving in the military would not only allow me to return 
     the favor as it has done for my family but ultimately serve 
     the people that define the United States of America.
       Through physical fitness, educational opportunities, and 
     teamwork cooperation, I believe the military academies are 
     the best route to helping others and cultivating leadership, 
     ultimately contributing to our country's welfare and serving 
     others.

  I think that is just fantastic.
  The next is from Jacob Brown.

       Attending a service academy is the ideal pathway to 
     achieving my goal of becoming a military officer. I believe 
     the service academy's overall experiences and benefits far 
     outweigh those of any traditional college.
       I am excited to continue leadership and disciplined 
     learning at a service academy needed for the foundation of a 
     future military officer. I attended a summer aviation program 
     in Virginia in 2015, at the age of 10, which introduced me to 
     aviation.
       I later joined the Civil Air Patrol in 2017 after my father 
     retired from the United States Secret Service and my family 
     relocated to Texas. Through the Civil Air Patrol, I have 
     experienced several military functions, such as staying on 
     military bases for summer encampment and leadership schools 
     over the past 5 years.
       The experience I gained from attending leadership schools 
     such as Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Officer 
     Training School, and Cadet Command Staff College has helped 
     me advance to the rank of cadet colonel.
       As the current cadet commander at my squadron, I have had 
     the opportunity to develop my leadership abilities through 
     conducting weekly drills and promotion review boards. The 
     Civil Air Patrol exposed me to the wonderful opportunity of 
     the military. Therefore, I have chosen a career path to 
     become an officer in the U.S. military.
       Together, these experiences over the last 5 years have 
     provided a sound foundation that I believe has equipped me to 
     succeed in a service academy and future career in the 
     military. I was accepted last summer to an 8-week-long flight 
     school in New Bern, North Carolina.
       There, I completed my solo flight, solo cross country, and 
     long solo cross country. I only have a couple of hours left 
     to take my check ride for my private pilot license. What 
     makes me a unique candidate for a nomination to the military 
     academy is the level of commitment and dedication I 
     demonstrated in setting and accomplishing goals.
       For example, I began setting long-term goals when I was 6 
     years old with the 3-year program to successfully achieve my 
     black belt in tae kwon do. While I was motivated when I 
     started the program in 2011, at age 6, after a year and a 
     half, I faced a wall and wanted to stop and start another 
     sport.
       Ultimately, through the leadership of my father, I 
     developed the invaluable trait of perseverance. Since that 
     early period in my life, I have used that lesson about the 
     power of commitment and dedication to overcome other walls 
     toward my goals.
       Through commitment and dedication, I accomplished the Civil 
     Air Patrol's highest cadet achievement and promotion to cadet 
     colonel with the successful completion of the General Carl A. 
     Spaatz Award, which less than 1 percent of all cadets in the 
     Civil Air Patrol achieve.
       I believe my experiences, training, and overall 
     preparedness through leadership and development in the Civil 
     Air Patrol have enhanced my level of commitment needed to 
     persevere through a military academy and as an officer in 
     the military after graduation.

  Next is Ezra Lee.

       Since the beginning, the United States has always needed 
     great leaders. To that end, military academies have been a 
     critical component in producing such leaders. The position 
     that the academies graduates put them in a place where they 
     have the ability to make an impact.
       I want to attend a military academy because of the 
     extraordinary leadership, character-building, and academic 
     education it will provide to make me the best version of 
     myself to serve my country and my endeavors.
       Attending an academy will allow me to be a part of 
     something bigger than myself by surrounding myself with the 
     same motivations, ambitions, and dedication.
       Many people consider college to be a time of growth, 
     bonding, and change. While these are important, some will 
     desire more, like the desire to truly test themselves and 
     push beyond what they thought was imaginable.
       While spending time at UTA through my dual-credit program, 
     I have found myself wanting more than the traditional college 
     experience.
       Learning about how hard the academies push cadets through 
     their detailed scheduling, pressure, and rigorous academics, 
     I have found them to be the perfect place to fill what I 
     could not find in a traditional college.
       The academies' physical, academic, and mental toughness 
     turn many away, but this is why I want to attend. I want to 
     be put in an environment in which I can truly test myself in 
     order to become the best version of myself to help others and 
     make an impact.
       Throughout my life, I have had the privilege of being a 
     part of many communities, such as church, school, and 
     orchestra. I have developed an appreciation for what strong 
     communities provide.
       A strong community such as my church has given me my faith 
     and has provided me with countless people who have changed my 
     life. Seeing those who have developed strong character has 
     given me a desire to pursue it.
       School has provided me with friends and teachers who have 
     cared for me and given me a desire to learn.
       Orchestra has provided me with an environment that has 
     pushed me and allowed me to understand teamwork.
       Attending a military academy is the best option for me 
     because this is where the aspects of what I appreciate the 
     most from these communities, faith, care, teamwork, and 
     connection, come together in one place.
       Additionally, it would allow me to give back to others in 
     these communities by serving. Ultimately, I want to attend a 
     military academy to be challenged and pushed in a way that 
     allows me to not only serve this country but also to emerge 
     as a leader and the most optimal version of myself. This is 
     what I desire to do most for the next decade of my life, and 
     I know that this decision will be one I never regret.

  Next applicant is Brett Hoelscher.

       For as far as back as I can remember, I have wanted to be a 
     pilot. And although passenger jets are interesting, I have 
     only ever aspired to become a military aviator.
       My uncle, a graduate of the Air Force Academy and a former 
     F-16 pilot and test pilot, always shared his larger-than-life 
     tales with me as a kid and encouraged me to dream big.
       So, I did. I realized very quickly that my long-term goal 
     was to earn a degree in aerospace engineering and use that 
     degree plus flight experience as an aviator or Air Force 
     pilot to become the chief test pilot at NASA or Lockheed 
     Martin.
       In addition, I realized how competitive applying and 
     attending a service academy would be, but I was excited. I 
     knew that the competitive nature of these academies would 
     only serve to better prepare me for my future in military 
     service and in a civilian career.
       So far in my application process, I have gotten to meet 
     some of the brightest, kindest, most encouraging, and most 
     honest people I have ever met.
       Through a service academy, I will forge friendships through 
     hardship and laughter that will last a lifetime, and I will 
     be able to learn from some of the best professors and mentors 
     this country has to offer.
       At a service academy, I will be able to surround myself 
     with motivated, hardworking, detail-oriented men and women 
     who share my passion and drive to succeed at everything I do.
       Through military training, I will better understand how to 
     lead under intense pressure, how to work within a group, and 
     how to be supremely confident yet humble in my actions.
       Through a service academy, I will develop as a young man, 
     and I will be able to realize my dreams at a place few can 
     say they have graduated from. I know I will not quit if given 
     an opportunity to attend a service academy, and I can only 
     hope that through this application you can see my drive to 
     succeed at a service academy.

                              {time}  2130

  Two more.
  Next is applicant Bahij Said.

       Being born in the United States and having lived abroad in 
     the Middle East for several years, I have developed a deep 
     respect for the freedoms Americans enjoy.
       My father, who traveled to the United States to seek a 
     better future, and my mother, who studied criminology and 
     criminal justice in hopes to improve our Nation, instilled 
     the conservative and patriotic values that ignited my passion 
     to serve this great country.
       After traveling to over 35 countries, including Iran, Saudi 
     Arabia, and Afghanistan, I have had the unique opportunity to 
     see the extent other countries are willing to confirm to in 
     order to harm our Nation.
       From openly protesting against the United States to 
     spreading perverted religious ideology that directly impacts 
     U.S. citizens, the passionate hate that these individuals 
     have for our country left me astounded.
       The more I witnessed these hateful acts, the more I began 
     researching and reading about recent historical events and 
     actions that inspired so many of these individuals.
       I read over 80 books on topics including the war on 
     terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan, the history of radical 
     jihadists, the use of enhanced interrogation techniques on 
     detainees, and the collection and analyzation of intelligence 
     from high-risk areas in the Middle East in order to develop a 
     deeper understanding of the complex situation.
       As I got older, I began questioning what I could do in 
     order to make a difference.
       After speaking with numerous individuals, both in the 
     government intelligence and

[[Page H9848]]

     military intelligence community, I decided that I would like 
     to work in the field of intelligence as well.
       The decision made sense for a number of reasons, which 
     included my trilingual capabilities in Arabic, Pashto, and 
     Persian, my ability to integrate myself in high-risk 
     environments, and my cultural and political understanding of 
     enemy countries, which are all valuable assets that I would 
     like to utilize in defense for our Nation.
       Since higher education is a goal of mine, the service 
     academies stood out as excellent options since they not only 
     provided me with a world-class education but also the tools, 
     training, and environment in order to defend and protect our 
     country.
       In addition to offering a challenging setting, the faculty 
     at the service academies are highly distinguished in their 
     areas of expertise and incorporate years of experience within 
     their academic lessons, a characteristic not found at other 
     educational institutions in the United States.
       The academies also provide areas to discuss and store 
     classified material, a necessity for somebody wanting to 
     branch into intelligence.
       My top service academy option is the Naval Academy since I 
     attended the Naval Academy Summer Seminar and fell in love 
     with the unique history and environment of the academy.
       The students and instructors that I met while attending the 
     summer seminar were all high-achieving, highly-motivated 
     individuals who were all passionate about serving their 
     country.
       Moreover, the students and instructors at the Naval Academy 
     are an excellent reflection of the overall category of 
     individuals who attend other service academies, individuals 
     who demonstrate both intelligence and athleticism and are 
     drawn toward service and duty.
       As a Muslim and Middle Easterner, an underrepresented 
     minority in the United States military, it would be a great 
     honor to be selected to attend a service academy. I look 
     forward to serving my country by taking the first steps as a 
     midshipman.

  That young man was 18.
  Finally, applicant Marshall Cloyd:

       I would like to attend a service academy because of my 
     desire to incorporate a sense of purpose in my undergraduate 
     experience and for the tangible career opportunities afforded 
     at a service academy. Furthermore, I believe that the ideals 
     of democracy and personal freedom our country stands for are 
     something worth protecting.
       In Europe, South Korea, and many other places, our Armed 
     Forces are the only reason there is peace and justice. The 
     possibility and purpose of serving as a part of this 
     important cause enthralls me.
       Another thing I noticed while touring multiple service 
     academies was the visible sense of comradery amongst the 
     cadets. The bond I witnessed while visiting was something I 
     value deeply in my personal life and wish to feel at whatever 
     workplace or academic institution I attend.
       Military academies also develop you as a person in a way 
     that a traditional civilian school doesn't. For one, everyone 
     who graduates from a service academy is trained into being a 
     leader and goes on to develop said leadership skills after 
     graduation.
       Military academies are also known for being academically 
     rigorous and competitive places filled with driven and 
     purposeful people. I value this sort of culture within my 
     current academic life and wish to continue it into my 
     undergraduate years.
       I also respect the emphasis placed on physical prowess 
     present at military academies. I want a career that requires 
     a standard for physical fitness, as it is something both 
     missing from and deeply needed by American society.

  It is indeed an honor and a difficult choice to have to choose from 
these incredible young men and women from the Sixth District of Texas. 
I realize that every district in this country has young men and women 
just like that. No matter what you see on mass media about the demise 
of our country and the downfall, our brightest days are yet ahead.
  Ecclesiastes 1:9 says: There is nothing new under the Sun.
  Let's have a bright outlook toward the future, especially at this 
time.
  I thank the people behind us who work so hard and so long, so many 
hours, and especially the stenographers for all their hard work and for 
everything that they do. It is a pleasure and honor to be working with 
them.
  Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

                          ____________________