[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.
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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.
____________________