[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 82 (Thursday, May 14, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H3467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        RECOGNIZING WILLIAM P. BASS AND FOUNDING OF SPACE COAST

  (Mr. Haridopolos of Florida was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the legacy of 
William P. Bass, a pioneer who helped found America's space program.
  After serving in World War II, Mr. Bass continued his service as a 
civilian leader in the United States Air Force.
  In 1950, he came to Florida to help establish the Eastern Test Range, 
building the infrastructure that would launch the American space race 
and its ultimate success.
  As the highest ranking civilian manager at the Eastern Test Range, he 
oversaw operations that supported the Gemini and the Apollo missions 
between the Air Force and NASA and led an organization of tens of 
thousands of men and women in the missile and space operations program.
  At a time when Brevard County was largely undeveloped, his leadership 
helped transform it into the birthplace of American exploration.
  His legacy of that work is clear. It helped put Americans on the Moon 
and secure our Nation's leadership in space.
  Today, we honor William P. Bass for his service, his vision, and his 
lasting impact for the space coast.


                        Honoring Andrew L. Miles

  Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Andrew L. 
Miles, a proud veteran from Florida's Space Coast and our Veteran of 
the Month.
  Technical Sergeant Miles served our Nation honorably for 23 years in 
the United States Air Force, dedicating his life to our country and our 
military.
  In fact, while overseas in Madrid, he met his wife, Angeles, and they 
shared a life together. His distinguished service earned him the Air 
Force Commendation Medal with Oakleaf Cluster, Outstanding Unit Award, 
and the Good Conduct Medal, reflecting a career marked by 
professionalism and dedication.
  Mr. Miles also reminds us of this civic truth: that democracy depends 
on participation. So today, we thank Andrew L. Miles for his service to 
our Nation, his example of patriotism, and continued commitment to our 
community.


        Recognizing Lifesaving Actions on Brevard County Beaches

  Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, we not only live on the Space Coast, 
but we live on the beach. So today, Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 
recognize the bravery and quick action of the lifeguards on Florida's 
Space Coast.
  Recently, a Brevard County Ocean Rescue team led that fight to take 
on these dangerous waters. In a moment where every second matters, they 
acted without hesitation, demonstrating skill, courage, and deep 
commitment to protecting others.
  In 1 day they rescued 15 different individuals as they faced strong 
rip currents and hazardous conditions on our beaches.
  These lifeguards are often the first line of defense between safety 
and tragedy. Their work requires vigilance, training, and the 
willingness to put others first.
  Their actions serve as a reminder of the importance of respecting the 
ocean and always providing safety guidance.
  We thank the entire Brevard County Ocean Rescue team for their 
dedication and saving lives each and every day.


       Recognizing Eastern Florida State College Men's Golf Team

  Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
outstanding achievement of Eastern Florida State College men's golf 
team on the Space Coast. In fact, I used to teach at Eastern Florida 
and am especially proud of their incredible work.
  The team is currently ranked eighth in the Nation, and they are 
moving up due to their hard work, discipline, and commitment to 
excellence.
  This recognition reflects not only the talent they have on the golf 
course, but of course, their performance in the classroom, as well.
  Eastern Florida continues to produce student-athletes who represent 
our region with pride and integrity.
  We congratulate the team on this achievement and wish them continued 
success this season.


       Recognizing Boeing's Destination Moon Student Achievement

  Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
incredible work being done by our Brevard County public schools.
  At the Boeing Destination Moon Awards Ceremony, more than 500 
students were recognized for competing in a yearlong STEM design 
challenge to look at real-world lunar missions.
  These students developed solutions using coding, robotics, and 
engineering and got hands-on experience that prepares them for a career 
in aerospace and amazing new technologies. These students applied their 
talents to these challenges and led by example.
  I was proud to be at this event most recently, and it just shows that 
Brevard County schools are not only putting students first, but they 
are putting the future in the hands of these students, so they can 
decide that ultimate civil right, which is a great education.

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