mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE 2020 OHIO MILITARY HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
Jim Jordan (Republican, OH) \u2014 2020-10-30

. Madam , this year the Ohio Military Hall of Fame marks the induction of its 21st annual class. Selection for the Hall of Fame is a high honor that has been accorded to only a few hundred Ohioans since 2000. To be considered for induction, individuals must have been decorated for heroic actions in a combat situation. prgtoken I am honored to include in the Record this year's 30 inductees: Major Charles K. Boyd (posthumously), recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, Army Air Corps veteran of World War II. Sergeant Joseph R. Calabria of Youngstown, recipient of the Silver Star, Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War. First Lieutenant Thomas J. Cannava (posthumously), recipient of the Silver Star, Army veteran of the Vietnam War. First Lieutenant Paul E. Cramer of Swanton, recipient of the Silver Star, Marine Corps veteran of World War II. Specialist Michael L. Harbottle (posthumously), recipient of the Silver Star, Army veteran of the Vietnam War. First Lieutenant Dwight E. Maul (posthumously), recipient of the Silver Star, Air Force veteran of World War II. Private First Class Gerald E. Shaner of Westerville, recipient of the Silver Star, Army veteran of World War II. Major Jay M. Strayer of Xenia, recipient of the Silver Star, Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War. Warrant Officer I James E. Smith of Ashtabula, recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross, Army veteran of the Vietnam War. Specialist Dewitt L. Battle of Cincinnati, recipient of the Bronze Star with ``V'' Device, Army veteran of the Vietnam War. First Lieutenant Richard E. Carpenter II (posthumously), recipient of the Bronze Star with ``V'' Device, Army veteran of the Vietnam War. Hospital Corpsman Third Class John J. ``Jack'' Crowley of Dublin, recipient of the Bronze Star with ``V'' Device, Navy veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom. Private First Class Gary E. Eicheler (posthumously), recipient of the Bronze Star with ``V'' Device, Army veteran of the Vietnam War. Sergeant Steven J. Hall of Marietta, recipient of the Bronze Star with ``V'' Device, Army veteran of the Vietnam War. Private First Class Philip E. Hahn of Elyria, recipient of the Bronze Star with ``V'' Device, Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War. Specialist Russel H. Hewit, Jr. (posthumously), recipient of the Bronze Star with ``V'' Device, Army veteran of the Vietnam War. Private First Class Frank J. Kovacs (posthumously), recipient of the Bronze Star with ``V'' Device, Army veteran of World War II. Private First Class Charles R. Laberdee of Toledo, recipient of the Bronze Star with ``V'' Device, Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War. Sergeant Richard R. Perry (posthumously), recipient of the
REMARKS ON THE POSITIVE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE UNION TERRITORY OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR
A. Drew Ferguson IV (Republican, GA) \u2014 2020-10-30

. Madam , I recently had the opportunity to meet with India's Consulate General Dr. Swati V. Kulkarni to discuss the bilateral relationship between India and the United States, and I rise today to recognize the critical importance of this relationship with our ally, India. prgtoken In any part of the world, Madam , individuals and families need to feel safe when they leave their homes and go to work. Terrorist groups need to be strongly opposed in all forms. Without question, India is a strong partner in the fight against international terrorism. As a part of this pursuit, the Indian Government recently repealed Article 370--a temporary Article of the Indian Constitution that forced citizens of Jammu-Kashmir to live under different laws than all other Indians. It was meant to be a stopgap measure since this region's government had yet to be formed. prgtoken Madam , this measure hindered the application of progressive federal laws of the Indian Government. As a result, Pakistani-based terrorist organizations conducted terrorist activities that accounted for thousands of innocent lives being lost and detrimentally impacted economic opportunities in the region. In August of 2019, both Houses of the Indian parliament voted to end the temporary status of Article 370 in order to bring peace, stability, and the opportunity to chart out better futures to the people of the region. prgtoken I applaud the current steps taken by Prime Minister Modi to boost economic development, fight terrorism, and fight corruption. These steps forward are good for the long-term stability of Jammu-Kashmir and we should support the Indian Government in this endeavor.
CONGRATULATING BRIAN MIXON
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (Republican, GA) \u2014 2020-10-30

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Brian Mixon on his retirement after 4 years of active duty and 32 years of civilian service with the Department of the Army. prgtoken Brian served honorably as an air traffic and airspace officer, and was recognized for his work when he was awarded the Air Traffic Control Manager of the Year award by the Air Traffic Control Association in 2019. This national award is formally known as the General E.R. Quesada Memorial Award, and it's a medallion award presented to an individual for outstanding achievement and contribution during the previous year as an Air Traffic Control Manager. prgtoken This is not the first time Brian has been recognized for his exceptional work. He also earned two other national awards, among many others. prgtoken Hunter Army Airfield in Georgia's First Congressional District is one of the premier power projection platforms in the Army, which is utilized to deploy thousands of soldiers and essential equipment. Brian's contributions have been essential to the readiness capabilities of the units that utilize Hunter Army Airfield. I can't thank him enough for his many years of steadfast dedication to serving our great nation, and I wish Brian the best as he begins his retirement.
IN RECOGNITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF DRILLING CONTRACTORS 80TH ANNIVERSARY
Liz Cheney (Republican, WY) \u2014 2020-10-30

. Madam , I rise today to commend the International Association of Drilling Contractors on its 80th anniversary as a trade association. prgtoken In 1940, the International Association of Drilling Contractors, commonly known as IADC, was formed to address the need for a collective voice advocating for the interests of the oil and natural gas contract drilling industry. Since then, IADC has been the world's leader in developing drilling safety protocol and standard operating procedures. prgtoken Today, IADC continues to exemplify the ideal model of leadership and remains committed to teaching the core values of safety, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement of technology to generation after generation of America's energy workforce. Over the years, IADC has maintained 1,000 plus members worldwide, seventeen regional chapters, seven student chapters, and has accredited the training of nearly 2 million persons employed in the oil and gas industry, many of which have been hardworking Wyomingites. With six member companies operating in-state, IADC plays a critical role in the exploration and production of Wyoming's vast natural gas and oil reserves. prgtoken Madam , I would like to extend my gratitude to the International Association of Drilling Contractors for eighty years of unwavering competence, professionalism, and commitment in support of the transformational drilling industry that sustains the energy intensive demands of our modern society.
HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF JESSIE WOLF
Brian Babin (Republican, TX) \u2014 2020-11-2

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life and service of Jessie Wolf, former Sheriff of Tyler County, professional football player, and servant of his community. prgtoken Jessie was born on March 4, 1952, to John and Annie Mae Wolf in Warren, Texas. He was a long-time resident of Tyler County and graduated from Warren High School in 1970. For nearly three decades, Jessie ensured the safety of more than 21,000 residents of Tyler County serving as a law enforcement officer. He is remembered by many for his infectious personality and was loved deeply by the community of which he worked tirelessly to keep safe after an impressive career playing professional football. prgtoken Jessie played college football and was a weight thrower for the track and field team at Prairie View A&M University. Following his college graduation, he was recruited by the World Football League where he played for the Birmingham Vulcans. A year later, he was drafted into the National Football League (NFL) by the Miami Dolphins and helped lead the team to a Super Bowl championship in 1974. After his time with the Dolphins, he went on to play for two other NFL teams, the Washington Redskins and the Baltimore Colts. In 2014, Jessie was inducted into his alma mater's Sport's Hall of Fame. prgtoken Following his departure from the NFL, Jessie moved back to Tyler County and began his career in law enforcement. After many years of service, he assumed the position of Chief Deputy in the early 2000s and stepped in as acting Sheriff for Tyler County in 2005. Jessie made history as the first African American sheriff of Tyler County and held that position until his retirement. prgtoken He married the love of his life, Mary Cravens Wolf, in 2007, and they spent many wonderful years together. Throughout his time in law enforcement, Jessie made sure that the safety and wellbeing of the community he swore to protect remained top priority. In addition to his love of football and police service, Jessie enjoyed spending time with his family and his beloved six grandchildren. prgtoken Jessie is preceded in death by his parents, John Wolf Sr. and Annie Mae Deason Wolf; sister Maggie Lena Wolf Foster; and two brothers, James and Joe Wolf. He is survived by his wife, Margie Wolf; two daughters, Denise Wright and Shannon Dugas; brother Elray Wolf; two sisters, Beatrice Williams and Verdie Wolf; and six grandchildren, DeAndre Bell, Kayla Bell, Derrick Wright, Erik Wright, Isaiah Wright, and Rashaad Young. prgtoken Madam , I thank Jessie Wolf for his faithful service to our community and county; and my heartfelt prayers remain with his family and friends during this difficult time.
CELEBRATING THE CAREER OF JOE FRANCO
Dan Newhouse (Republican, WA) \u2014 2020-11-2

. Madam , today, I rise to celebrate and honor the distinguished service of my constituent, Joe Franco. Throughout his years, Joe has diligently worked to improve and protect American communities, including ours in Central Washington. prgtoken A native of Carlsbad, New Mexico, Joe first served our nation in the United States Navy before his distinguished career in nuclear waste cleanup. He began working at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant at the Department of Energy's field office in 1989. Over the years, he became an experienced operative in federal nuclear energy projects, and in 2006, he brought his talents to Central Washington's Richland Operations Office at the Hanford Site, where he was ultimately named Deputy Manager. prgtoken During his service as a federal employee, Joe's work was crucial to our nation's ongoing nuclear cleanup efforts. He is an example of the country's best and brightest minds hard at work advancing the Department of Energy's mission to protect our environment and strengthen our national security. prgtoken On behalf of Central Washington, I salute Joe for his significant contributions to the greater Tri-Cities community and to the United States.
IN HONOR OF THOMAS McCARTHY, ABINGTON AND WHITMAN MA VETERANS' SERVICE OFFICER
Stephen F. Lynch (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2020-11-2

. Madam , I rise today in honor of Thomas McCarthy, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Towns of Abington and Whitman, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the United States of America. prgtoken The son of James and Jane McCarthy of Abington, Tom was born on May 11, 1958. He was raised on Plymouth Street in Abington, and he attended South Shore Vocational Tech High School in Hanover. He attended Southern Washington University, earning a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice in 1979. prgtoken Tom served in the United States Marine Corps for thirty years (1976 to 2006), retiring with the rank of Sergeant Major. Over the course of his service in the United States Marine Corps, Tom attended the Military Police Academy and was assigned to the Military Police for twenty-six years. Upon his retirement, he returned to Abington. prgtoken Tom then worked for A-Prime Steel, a specialty steel company from 2007 to 2008 in addition to driving for Dunbar Armor, a private security company. Subsequently, Tom worked at Sears as a sales associate and then as an assistant manager in the automobile service department. In 2012, Tom began his service as the part-time Veterans' Service Officer for the towns of Abington and Whitman. He was promoted to Director of Veterans' Services in 2017. Tom is a life member of the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 119, in Whitman, where he served as Post Commander from 2011 to 2016. prgtoken Madam , Tom is known for his compassion, his kind smile, his quick sense of humor, his storytelling, and his affection for Dunkin' Donuts Iced Coffee. He is an avid freshwater fisherman and has participated in many firearms shooting competitions over the years. He has had the good fortune to be married to Jenny for forty-one years. prgtoken His passionate advocacy for veterans set an example to all who worked with him, and I extend my sincere congratulations and appreciation to him upon his retirement. It is my distinct honor to join with Tom McCarthy's family, friends and contemporaries to thank him for his service to the United States and to the veterans of Abington and Whitman, Massachusetts.
IN HONOR OF MAYOR CURTISTENE SMITH McCOWAN
Eddie Bernice Johnson (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2020-11-2

. Madam , I rise today to recognize and honor the life of Mrs. Curtistene Smith McCowan, Mayor of DeSoto, Texas, who passed away on October 28, 2020. prgtoken Mayor McCowan's experience in public service was commendable, and the extension of her influence cannot be measured by the positions she held--of which there were many. Among her laudable achievements included Mayor of DeSoto, DeSoto City Councilmember, President of the DeSoto Economic Development Cooperation Board of Directors, Founder and President of the Concerned DeSoto Citizens nonprofit, and Chair of the Trustee Board at the Kirkwood Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, just to name a few. Even in the 21st Century, Mrs. McCowan was the first African American elected to public office in DeSoto and the first woman to hold the office of mayor. prgtoken In our countless meetings together, Mayor McCowan and I always left with a greater understanding and appreciation for one another's perspectives. We shared the same vision for the future of DeSoto where its citizens and institutions flourished under her fervent leadership. During her tenure, Mayor McCowan made significant strides towards access for quality education, fiscal accountability, and the economic development of the city, among several other initiatives. prgtoken Mayor McCowan saw adversity as simply a bump in the road--a necessary hurdle on the way to success. She met her challenges, both personal and public, with a fierce, yet gentle tenacity. When announcing her cancer diagnosis during a city council meeting in early October 2020, she made it clear that her priority would remain the wellbeing of DeSoto and its residents during these trying times. ``I've always said that when we work together, there's nothing that we can't accomplish,'' she remarked during that meeting. It is in that spirit that we carry on her legacy, so that generations to come may feel the significant impact of her life. prgtoken Mayor McCowan is survived by her husband of 54 years, Leon R. McCowan, two sons, and three grandchildren. Also among her progeny include the students of Curtistene S. McCowan Middle School and the many of us she inspired along the way. prgtoken Madam , on behalf of the Texas Congressional Delegation and this legislative body, I compassionately extend my sincere condolences to the McCowan family, friends and loved ones. We know that DeSoto is a better place because of the well-lived life of Mayor Curtistene Smith McCowan.
HONORING W.C. GORDEN
Bennie G. Thompson (Democrat, MS) \u2014 2020-11-5

. Madam , I rise today to honor W.C. Gorden. prgtoken W.C. Gorden was a native of Nashville, Tennessee, a former longtime football coach of Jackson State University and a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. Mr. Gorden was considered the school's winningest coach. prgtoken Mr. Gorden served in the U.S. Army before beginning his coaching journey in 1956. prgtoken Gorden led the Tigers from 1976 to 1991 and guided the football team to eight SWAC championships and nine NCAA Division I-AA playoff appearances. He had just one losing season. prgtoken Jackson State won its second HBCU national championship in 1985. He finished his storied career with a 119-48-5 overall record and was a six-time SWAC Coach of the Year. Gorden was inducted into the SWAC Hall of Fame in 1994 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008. prgtoken He was named to ESPN's Top 150 list of the greatest college football coaches of all time. prgtoken Gorden produced 29 NFL Draft picks at Jackson State, including Jimmy Smith. prgtoken Last month, the Jackson City Council voted unanimously to rename Jaycee Park after him in his honor. prgtoken Mr. Gorden, who was 90, died on October 23, 2020. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the late Hall of Famer, W.C. Gorden.
CONGRATULATING ASSISTANT CHIEF YOGANANDA PITTMAN OF THE U.S. CAPITOL POLICE
Rodney Davis (Republican, IL) \u2014 2020-11-5

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Assistant Chief Yogananda Pittman of the United States Capitol Police on being awarded the Women in Federal Law Enforcement's 2020 Outstanding Advocate for Women in Federal Law Enforcement Award. Ms. Pittman joined the U.S. Capitol Police force in 2001. Her USCP career began with security and protective services for the U.S. Senate. She has continually risen through the ranks, and in 2012 became the first African-American female supervisor to become Captain. From 2016 to 2018, Ms. Pittman completed the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) CEO Mentoring Program, and in October of last year, she became the first female to achieve the rank of Assistant Chief of the U.S. Capitol Police--the same year she completed a Master's Degree in Public Administration and enrolled in a Doctoral program. As if these accomplishments were not enough, Ms. Pittman has been promoting diversity and mentoring through the U.S. Capitol Police's Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Action (IDEA) Office--all in addition to her police force responsibilities. To call her impressive is truly an understatement. I'd like to formally express my gratitude for her dedicated public service and congratulate her on her well- deserved achievement of the Outstanding Advocate for Women in Federal Law Enforcement Award.
RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF BOBBY MARTIN
Trent Kelly (Republican, MS) \u2014 2020-11-9

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate the life of Bobby Martin, who passed away on November 4, 2020. Bobby was born on February 13, 1933 to Elijah and Valca Martin. As a 1956 agronomy graduate of Mississippi State University, Bobby was a lifelong Bulldog fan. He served as the Chairman of the MSU Foundation, the President of the Bulldog Club, and the Alumni Association's 1999 National Alumnus of the Year. In 2002, he was awarded the honorary doctorate of business degree. Bobby served northeast Mississippi as Chairman of the Blue Mountain College Board of Trustees and as a member of the Board of Trustees for Northeast Mississippi Community College. prgtoken Outside of serving his community, Bobby also served in the United States Army during the Korean War, then later began his career at The Peoples Bank. He held the positions of president and CEO for 42 years, roles now occupied by his daughter. Bobby's passion for his community was evidenced by his lifetime of service to his customers and his mentorship of countless students and employees. He served as Chairman of the Mississippi Bankers Association and the Mississippi Board of Banking Review. His generosity was embodied in his position as chairman emeritus of the CREATE Foundation. He spearheaded the effort to establish a CREATE affiliate in Tippah County in 1997, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in communities through investments. prgtoken Bobby was known as a pillar of faith in his community. He served as a deacon and member of the choir of First Baptist Church. He treated his associates like family. The People's Bank, as well as the countless organizations and local industries he impacted, mourn his loss and will always remember his profound impact on the community. prgtoken He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara Cook; his daughter, Mary Childs; and many beloved grandchildren. Bobby was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Georgia Crook, Virginia Coombs, and Peggy Marvin. prgtoken Bobby Martin lived as an example of generosity, faith, and service to his community and country. His impact on North Mississippi will endure, and he will be greatly missed.
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF THADDEUS W. GAY, SR.
Richard Hudson (Republican, NC) \u2014 2020-11-9

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Thaddeus W. Gay, Sr a true American hero and inspiration to many throughout North Carolina's Eighth Congressional District. prgtoken Mr. Gay was born on June 27, 1922 and after graduating from West Southern Pines ``Rosenwald'' School, he attended North Carolina A&T State University before enlisting in the U.S. Army during the height of World War II. A decorated military servant, Mr. Gay served our great nation in New Guinea and the South Pacific and received the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal with a bronze service star, Good Conduct Medal, and World War II Victory Medal. prgtoken Mr. Gay represents the best our nation has to offer and served with honor and distinction until 1944. Following the war, he found success running various small businesses and even sought patents for several of his inventions. Mr. Gay's service to our community extended far beyond his military service and entrepreneurial success. He was a tireless advocate on behalf of the West Southern Pines Civic Club, the Rufus L. McLaughlin American Legion Post No. 177, the Southern Pines Land and Housing Trust, and the NAACP. prgtoken Mr. Gay passed away on October 20, 2020 and left behind a legacy of extraordinary accomplishment. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all who knew and loved him. Mr. Gay will live on in the hearts and minds of all who felt his kindness and I join the entire community in honoring his extraordinary life. prgtoken Madam SPEAKER, please join me today in honoring the life and legacy of Thaddeus W. Gay, Sr.