[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 171 (Tuesday, November 19, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H6081]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   MILITARY FAMILY APPRECIATION MONTH

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from 
Iowa (Mrs. Miller-Meeks) for 5 minutes.
  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 
Military Family Appreciation Month, a time to honor the families who 
stand as the true backbone of our military community.
  As someone from a proud military family, I know the sacrifices made 
by those who serve are only possible because of the unwavering support 
of their families. I enlisted at 18 and served for 24 years from the 
Vietnam era to the Gulf war, both on Active Duty and in the Reserves.
  Throughout my years in the military, I had the privilege of serving 
alongside five of my eight siblings. My husband and my father also 
served our country. None of us would have been able to do this without 
the strength and support of our family.
  This month, we celebrate military families, the silent heroes behind 
every servicemember's success. To all military families, we thank them 
for their sacrifices and their unwavering commitment to our Nation's 
freedom.


       Recognizing St. Ambrose University Veterans Legacy Project

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the St. 
Ambrose University Veterans Legacy Project, which is working to cement 
the legacies of over 25,000 of our veterans at Rock Island Arsenal in 
the Quad Cities.
  Over Veterans Day weekend, I had the pleasure of meeting some of the 
individuals involved in this essential process. Their team of dedicated 
volunteers worked diligently to ensure the lives and careers of so many 
of our veterans are not forgotten.
  They document the service and lives of veterans ranging from the 
Civil War until today. As a veteran, it inspires me to see young people 
who care so deeply about these personal sacrifices and American 
history. The detail and level of care which is put into this operation 
is breathtaking; speaking with friends and families of these servicemen 
and -women to ensure nothing is forgotten.
  Without these men and women, many of whom gave the ultimate 
sacrifice, we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms we have today. It 
is my hope that this project can shine a spotlight on veterans' issues 
and the importance of safeguarding our history.


                    38th Annual Student Hunger Drive

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
incredible students from over 16 Quad Cities high schools who raised 
787,186 meals for the River Bend Food Bank during the 38th annual 
Student Hunger Drive.
  Through their hard work, creativity, and leadership, these students 
have had a profound impact on their community. By organizing events 
like penny wars and competing to raise the most meals, they not only 
provided vital resources but also united the community in their fight 
against hunger. Every meal they collected will go to those in need.
  I am incredibly proud to represent these young leaders in Congress, 
and I have no doubt they will continue to make a difference in the Quad 
Cities and beyond. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating 
them for their dedication and commitment to service.


                           Honoring Jon West

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Jon West, 
an exceptional Iowan who passed away far too soon.
  Born on May 24, 1971, in Mason City, Jon was a devoted husband to 
Tammy, father to TJ and Ashley, and grandfather to Rhea Lou and Lyra 
Jon. He dedicated 30 years to Winnebago Industries, rising from an 
entry-level position to lead manufacturing engineer where his 
innovations benefited both the company and his community.

  Jon served two terms on the city council of Forest City, showing his 
deep commitment to giving back. A fourth-generation Iowan, he cherished 
his heritage and loved farming with friends, Jay and Kevin.
  Above all, Jon's greatest joy was his family. His legacy lives on 
through them and his impact on his community endures.
  Jon was a proud Iowan dedicated to his family, his work, and his 
State. He will be deeply missed.


                                Go Hawks

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, this weekend on Saturday, November 
23, the Iowa Hawkeyes play the Maryland Terrapins. Go Hawks.


                    Birthday Wishes to Austin Harris

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I wish a very happy birthday to my 
good friend, Austin Harris.

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