[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 126 (Wednesday, July 23, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H3565-H3566]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1120
             HONORING THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE FREEDOM TRAIN

  (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to mark the anniversary of the 
legendary Freedom Train, a rolling symbol of American ideals that 
traveled more than 37,000 miles from 1947 to 1949, visiting all 48 
States and welcoming over 3.5 million citizens aboard.
  For over 30 years, my constituents, Mary Jayne and John Z. Rowe, have 
been at the forefront of efforts to preserve the memory of this great 
national event which helped to remind Americans of the foundations of 
their liberty.
  Powered by the groundbreaking ALCO PA diesel locomotive, numbered 
1776 and named the ``Spirit of 1776,'' the train revolutionized public 
perception of rail power. In an age still dominated by steam, the 
diesel proved its mettle across all terrain and climate, operating 
reliably without pause for coal or water.
  Its performance, witnessed by millions and scrutinized by railroad 
leaders nationwide, helped hasten the transition from steam to diesel 
across American railroads.
  Beyond technology, the Freedom Train carried our founding documents 
and civic ideals to the people. It was guarded by marines, celebrated 
in towns, and kissed literally by thousands in cities like Brooklyn.
  It was not a government project but a private and patriotic mission 
supported by the Truman administration and the American Heritage 
Foundation. At a moment of global uncertainty, the Freedom Train 
reminded Americans of who we were and who we still are.


          Recognizing the Roanoke Catholic School Lady Celtics

  Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary 
accomplishments of the Roanoke Catholic School Lady Celtics girls' 
track and field team who captured the 2025 VISAA Division II Virginia 
State championship with remarkable determination and unity.
  After narrowly missing the title by three points in 2023, the Lady 
Celtics redoubled their efforts, displaying unmatched teamwork in a 
sport often focused on individual performance.
  Guided by an outstanding group of seniors and supported by dedicated 
underclassmen, they secured the championship with a commanding margin 
of 55.5 points.
  I commend Head Coach Jason Smith and the entire 2025 team. They are 
Aubrey Aaron, Addison Becker, Anna Stadnyk, Charlie Floyd, Karly Smith, 
Justinne Llavore, Eva Coniglione, Lillian Kessler, Sydney Whitt, 
Jamariah Edwards, Lauren Bradley, Brinkley Aaron, Molly O'Herron, Joey 
Barger, and Kuk Kuk Chen.
  Their perseverance, skill, and sportsmanship are an inspiration to 
our community. I congratulate the Lady Celtics on this well-earned 
State title.


                    Enforcing Laws for Illegal Entry

  Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Stop 
Illegal Entry Act.
  In recent years, more than 10 million illegal immigrants have crossed 
into our country, including hundreds who are on the terrorist watch 
list. This is more than a border crisis. It is a serious national 
security threat.
  A failure to enforce our laws created a dangerous incentive. Cross 
illegally, break our laws, and a person is likely to be released into 
our communities

[[Page H3566]]

under past radical policies. That had to change.
  Even more concerning, over 70 percent of those charged with illegal 
reentry last year had criminal records. These are not first-time 
offenders. These are repeat criminals who have shown complete disregard 
for our laws.
  The Stop Illegal Entry Act will increase penalties and prison time 
for illegal entry and reentry, sending a clear message that there will 
be consequences.
  President Trump ended catch and release. With this legislation, House 
Republicans are continuing that commitment to restore accountability 
and protect American families.
  It is time to bring back law and order by stopping these illegal 
crossings. I urge my colleague to support this bill and stand for the 
safety of the American people.

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