Monday, August 17, 2026

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Nathan Matthews, a wildland firefighter who gave his life protecting western Colorado. Nate was serving with the Rifle Helitack crew on June 28, 2026, when the Knowles Fire suddenly overtook his team during initial attack operations in Mesa County. Three of his fellow firefighters--Emily Barker, Nick Hutcherson, and Sydney Watson--were killed that day. Nate survived the burnover and fought for nearly a month, but on July 25, 2026, he succumbed to his injuries. He was 43 years old. Wildland firefighters go toward danger when everyone else is trying to get away. Nate did that for people he had never met, in a community far from his own. His courage, and the courage of those who served beside him, deserves our lasting gratitude. May God bless Nate's family, his crew, and all who mourn him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, service, and enduring legacy of Robert P. Gause, a proud World War II Navy Veteran, survivor of the USS Indianapolis, and lifelong resident of the Tarpon Springs community. Robert P. Gause was a member of a generation of Americans whose courage, sacrifice, and devotion to country helped preserve the freedoms we enjoy today. A 1938 graduate of Tarpon Springs High School, Robert answered our Nation's call to service during World War II and served honorably in the United States Navy. His service placed him aboard the USS Indianapolis, and his survival of one of the most tragic events in the history of the United States Navy forever made him part of an extraordinary brotherhood. In July of 1945, after completing a secret mission that played an important role in bringing World War II to an end, the USS Indianapolis was struck by Japanese torpedoes and sank in the Philippine Sea. Robert was among those who survived the sinking and the harrowing days that followed. The courage required to endure such an unimaginable ordeal is difficult for those of us who were not there to fully comprehend. Yet, like so many members of the Greatest Generation, Robert returned home and devoted himself not to seeking recognition, but to building a family, strengthening his community, and helping others. Robert spent his life in the Tarpon Springs area, where he became known not simply for what he had survived, but for the kind of man he chose to be. He was a man of deep faith, a longtime member of First United Methodist Church, and someone whose generosity left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him. He was also a member of the Old Timers Club and remained connected to his fellow USS Indianapolis survivors. The memories shared following Robert's passing paint the picture of a man who quietly made his community better. Friends remembered a welcoming home, his kindness toward families who needed help, and his willingness to encourage young people as they pursued their futures. One particularly powerful story came from a young Navy Veteran who approached Robert in 1968 seeking help financing his college education. Robert provided him with a $600 loan and never charged him a penny of interest. That young Veteran went on to graduate from the University of South Florida and never forgot the generosity Robert showed him. That story tells us a great deal about Robert Gauge. His service to others did not end when he took off his Navy uniform. It continued throughout his life, through his family, his faith, his friendships, and the countless acts of kindness that often occurred without fanfare or recognition. Robert and his beloved wife, Norma Neal, shared 67 years of marriage and raised a wonderful family. At the time of his passing in 2008 at the age of 88, his legacy extended to four children, 12 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren, As someone who had been blessed to represent the Tarpon Springs community and who considers serving our Nation's Veterans one of the greatest honors of my life, I believe we have a solemn responsibility to ensure that stories like Robert's are never forgotten. The history of the USS Indianapolis is not simply a chapter in a history book. It is the story of real Americans who answered the call of duty, endured unimaginable hardship, and demonstrated extraordinary courage in defense of our Nation. Robert P. Gause was one of those Americans. His life reminds us that the legacy of the Greatest Generation was not built only on what its members accomplished on battlefields and at sea. It was also built in the decades that followed, as they returned home, raised families, built businesses, strengthened churches and civic organizations, mentored younger generations, and quietly made their communities better places to live. Robert did all of those things. Although he has been gone for many years, his legacy remains alive in his family, in the Tarpon Springs community he loved, and in the history of the USS Indianapolis and the United States Navy. We owe Robert and his fellow Veterans a debt that can never fully be repaid. But we can honor that debt by remembering their names, telling their stories, caring for their fellow Veterans, and ensuring future generations understand the tremendous price that has been paid for our freedom. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and legacy of World War II Navy Veteran and USS Indianapolis survivor Robert P. Gause. May his service and sacrifice never be forgotten, and may God continue to bless his family, our Veterans, and the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate and recognize James Hensel, store manager of Oregon Dairy in Lititz, Pennsylvania, as a 2026 FMI Store Manager Awards Grand Prize Winner. The FMI Store Manager Awards, given by FMI, The Food Industry Association, recognize outstanding grocery store managers who generate sales growth, communicate effectively, lead strong teams, provide exceptional customer service, and contribute to their communities. James Hensel was one of three American small retail managers chosen for this prestigious award. James has worked for the family-owned Oregon Dairy store for 35 years, beginning as produce manager and perishable manager before being promoted to store manager three years ago. During his time with Oregon Dairy, James created a full-scale lawn and garden department, expanded Oregon Dairy's private brand program, helped launch their highly profitable sushi station, and implemented its loyalty program. With the knowledge and contributions that he provides, James is an integral member of the Oregon Dairy staff and is seen as a mentor by the rest of the team. Having dedicated 35 years to making Oregon Dairy one of the premier retailers in the region, James is a fitting recipient of the 2026 FMI Store Manager Award. I am pleased that both the store and James are receiving nationwide recognition, and I look forward to his continued impact on our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today, alongside my colleague Representative Angie Craig, to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge--an extraordinary conservation achievement in the heart of Minnesota. Established in 1976, the refuge has become a national model for habitat restoration, wildlife protection, and community engagement. As noted in the Record ten years ago, the refuge "provides vital habitat for migratory waterfowl, fish, and other species," and remains "a wonderful example of Minnesota's commitment to conservation and the environment." Those words continue to ring true. Today the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge spans nearly 15,000 acres and stretches more than 70 miles along the Minnesota River from Bloomington to Henderson, Minnesota. Its wetlands, floodplain forests, prairies, and restored oak savannas support hundreds of species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and pollinators. The refuge also manages more than 8,000 acres of Waterfowl Production Areas, providing a fertile nesting habitat for waterfowl and offering Minnesotans abundant hunting and fishing opportunities. The refuge welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year for wildlife observation, photography, hunting, fishing, environmental education, and interpretation. Its visitor centers in Bloomington and Carver serve as gateways to nature for families, community groups, and first-time public-lands users. The refuge also provides outdoor learning experiences for thousands of students annually, offering hands-on environmental education that connects young people to Minnesota's natural heritage. Conservation work at the refuge has expanded significantly over the past five decades. Staff use prescribed fire, invasive species control, biological monitoring, and large-scale habitat restoration to maintain and improve ecological health. They collaborate closely with private landowners, watershed districts, local governments, and state agencies, strengthening habitat across the entire Minnesota River Valley. Equally essential are the refuge's volunteers, who contribute tens of thousands of hours each year to habitat restoration, visitor services, trail work, wildlife surveys, and education programs. Their dedication reflects the deep stewardship ethic that defines Minnesota's relationship with its natural resources. Mr. Speaker, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge stands as a testament to what federal, state, and local partners--working alongside committed volunteers--can accomplish together. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring 50 years of service by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the many community members who ensure that this remarkable refuge will continue to inspire future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sheriff Frederick W. Brown of Hunterdon County, New Jersey, as he marks the 50th anniversary of his distinguished career in law enforcement. Sheriff Brown began his journey in 1976 as a patrolman with the Raritan Township Police Department, following his service in the U.S. Naval Reserve. Sheriff Brown rose through the ranks, serving the department for more than 30 years and ultimately leading as Chief of Police for seven years. His dedication has inspired all four of his sons to pursue careers as Police Officers. A lifelong resident of Hunterdon County, Sheriff Brown was elected as Hunterdon County Sheriff in 2010. Throughout his five decades of law enforcement service, he has consistently exemplified what it means to serve and protect. In office, Sheriff Brown has embraced a philosophy of "doing more with less," tirelessly focusing on community service and maintaining accessibility, as reflected in his commitment that "his door is always open, and his phone is always on." Beyond his law enforcement duties, Sheriff Brown has served his community in many other roles, including as a member of the Raritan Township Planning Board, Emergency Management Coordinator, and as a member of the Flemington Rotary Club. He is a current member and former President of the Hunterdon County Association of Chiefs of Police and the State Chiefs Association. Sheriff Brown also belongs to the Constitutional Officers Association of New Jersey, the Sheriffs Association of New Jersey, and the National Sheriff's Association, and serves as chairman of the Hunterdon County Youth Services Commission. Throughout his tenure as Sheriff, he has championed and expanded numerous public service programs, including Project Lifesaver, the Special Needs Registry, scam alert presentations, and the Child ID program. Recognizing the importance of student safety, he established seven Special Law Enforcement Officers who provide security in seven schools across the county. Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Sheriff Frederick Brown's 50 years in law enforcement, I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring his dedication, leadership, professionalism, and public service. We extend our heartfelt congratulations on this remarkable milestone and wish Sheriff Brown continued success.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Shantanu Narayen on his 18-year tenure as CEO of Adobe, one of the largest software systems in the world, which is proudly headquartered in San Jose, California. Born in Hyderabad, India, he came to the United States to earn his master's degree in computer science from Bowling Green State University and later an MBA from the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business. He held leadership roles at Apple and Silicon Graphics before co-founding Pictra, an early photo-sharing startup, in 1996. In 1998, Mr. Narayen joined Adobe as Senior VP of Worldwide Product Development. He rose through the ranks, becoming President and Chief Operating Officer in 2005 and Chief Executive Officer in 2007. During Mr. Narayen's tenure as CEO of Adobe, the company has become massively successful, being named to Forbes' Most Innovative Companies list and joining the Fortune 500 for the first time ever in 2018. Adobe also expanded its mark on San Jose in 2023, opening the 18-story Founders Tower, the first all-electric building of its size in Silicon Valley. Adobe has also invested in San Jose through the Adobe Foundation and its Hometown Commitment, donating millions of dollars and thousands of volunteer hours to San Jose nonprofits. Mr. Narayen has received high praise for his executive leadership, being listed among Barron's World's Best CEOs and one of the Top CEOs on Glassdoor based on employee feedback. Additionally, he received the Padma Shri award in 2019, one of the highest civilian honors in India. In addition to his leadership in the tech industry, Mr. Narayen is vice chairman of the United States-India Strategic Partnership Forum. I am grateful for his service, his vision, and his commitment to San Jose and the United States' technological leadership. I congratulate Shantanu Narayen on 18 remarkable years at the helm of Adobe, and I wish him continued success as he begins this next chapter.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life and legacy of The Honorable Kay Granger of Texas. Representative Granger was a trailblazer. She was the first Republican woman elected to Congress from Texas and the first woman to chair the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. During her tenure as the first Republican woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee, she also made history as part of the first all-female four-corners of Appropriations leadership. Her legacy will be measured both by the historic barriers she broke and the many bipartisan agreements she led. I had the privilege of serving alongside Chairwoman Granger on the Appropriations Committee for many years, including during her time leading the Defense Subcommittee. Kay was a fierce advocate for our men and women in uniform. She understood that funding the Department of Defense was a direct commitment to the servicemembers and their families who sacrifice so much for our country. Over nearly three decades in this body, Kay Granger's career was defined by a rare combination of conviction and civility. She fought hard for her principles and for the people of Fort Worth and North Texas, but she never lost sight of the fact that the Appropriations Committee has long prided itself on working across the aisle to keep the government funded and functioning. Even though we frequently did not agree politically, I admired her commitment to the taxpayers and the institution. Kay Granger will be remembered in the history of this institution as a dedicated public servant and a pioneering leader. On behalf of my constituents and my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee, I extend my deepest condolences to Representative Granger's family, friends, and her constituents.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with tremendous respect to recognize Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and the enduring American-Armenian partnership. Armenia stands among the world's oldest civilizations, preserving a rich cultural and spiritual heritage that has endured for millennia. Today, under his leadership, Armenia finds itself at a defining moment in its modern history. His government's efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, secure lasting peace, and expand Armenia's partnerships with the United States and Europe have earned the attention and admiration of many who recognize the significance of this historic opportunity. The growing strategic partnership between the United States and Armenia reflects this remarkable progress. President Trump's leadership to join him and President Ilham Aliyev in signing a trilateral Joint Declaration marked an important milestone in advancing peace and stability in the South Caucasus. His meetings with President Trump, his participation in the World Economic Forum in Davos at his invitation, and Armenia's role as a founding member of the Board of Peace initiative, demonstrate a shared commitment to diplomacy, regional stability, and a stronger United States-Armenia relationship. His efforts to normalize relations with Azerbaijan represent one of the most consequential diplomatic initiatives in Armenia's modern history. Following his party's victory in the June 2026 parliamentary elections, the Armenian people entrusted his government with a renewed mandate to pursue a permanent peace. The successful conclusion of negotiations on the draft Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and Interstate Relations reflects both political courage and a commitment to reconciliation after decades of conflict. The enduring friendship between our nations is further strengthened by the extraordinary Armenian-American community. For generations, Armenian-Americans have made remarkable contributions to business, science, technology, philanthropy, and public life. As our nations continue building upon more than a century of friendship, I remain confident that the United States and Armenia will deepen their partnership in ways that advance regional stability, expand economic opportunity, and promote lasting peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the servicemembers of the 27th Special Operations Wing at Cannon Air Force Base for their continued commitment to defending our Nation. Known for their mission of "unconventional air power . . . any place, anytime, anywhere," the service members at Cannon are essential to our national security and air power capabilities. The 27th Special Operations Wing is made up of brave air commandos who serve in so many roles that contribute greatly to their mission, New Mexico, and the United States. From the aircrew to the engineers to the medical technicians and everyone in between, Cannon's servicemembers carry out each role with dedication and heart. Importantly, they serve their communities beyond their job titles. Clovis, Portales, and Eastern New Mexico are better because of the thousands of hours Cannon's air commandos have served volunteering at local organizations. Similarly, our students are more prepared for their shining futures because of the mentoring and tutoring the servicemembers have provided and continue to provide to local students. Today, the 27th Special Operations Wing stands ready to deploy globally in support of combat, humanitarian, evacuation, and steady-state peacekeeping operations. These brave men and women continue to hold the line.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Oscar Gutierrez, who passed away on June 3, 2026, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Oscar was a devoted husband and father, a distinguished attorney, and a cherished friend whose life was defined by service, integrity, and compassion. Mr. Gutierrez was born on November 13, 1983, in Glendale, California. He earned his bachelor's degree in communications from the University of Southern California before receiving his Juris Doctor from Pepperdine Caruso School of Law. He went on to build an exceptional career as a personal injury attorney, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike through his skill, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to justice. Throughout his career, he fought tirelessly for those in need of a voice, while also mentoring aspiring attorneys and strengthening the legal profession through leadership, service, and an enduring dedication to the rule of law. Yet, of all his accomplishments, Oscar took the greatest pride in being a loving husband and father. His greatest legacy lives on through his family, the countless lives he touched, and the example he set by leading with kindness, humility, and purpose. Mr. Gutierrez is survived by his beloved wife, Breanna, and their two children, Roman and Bianca. As we remember his remarkable life, may we also honor his enduring commitment to justice, his compassion for others, and the lasting impact he made on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the La Plata County Humane Society as it celebrates 55 years of service to the animals and people of Southwest Colorado. In 1971, a group of dedicated Coloradans in Durango set out to make sure that every animal in need had a place to go. More than five decades later, that mission is still very much alive. The Humane Society remains the only open-admission shelter in Southwest Colorado--meaning they turn no animal away, regardless of age, condition, or circumstance. Last year alone, they cared for more than 3,700 animals, performed over 2,000 spay and neuter surgeries, and helped hundreds of families keep their pets during times of hardship. They are also part of the La Plata County emergency management team, ready to shelter pets when disaster strikes, which is a role that matters deeply in a district that knows how devastating wildfires can be. None of this happens without the staff, volunteers, foster families, and donors who have shown up year after year. They are the reason this organization has lasted 55 years, and the reason it will last 55 more. I am proud to recognize the La Plata County Humane Society and everyone who has made it what it is.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and congratulate Vivian Salerno on being crowned an AAU Junior Olympic Champion and setting a new 800-meter record. Vivian ran a time of 2:06:54 at the Junior Olympics in Des Moines, Iowa, on August 5, 2026, which earned her first place in the 800- meter race in the 17- and 18-year-old girls division. She also set a Junior Olympic record, beating the previous record by 0.7 seconds. Her personal record of 2:06.33 is three seconds faster than any competitor in Lancaster-Lebanon League history. She is the first individual national champion from the Lancaster City Track and Field Club. Vivian, who is a junior at McCaskey High School in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, has won many other titles. She was a gold medalist at the Pennsylvania State Championships in May and placed first at both the Lancaster-Lebanon League Championships and District 3 Championships. In June 2026, she competed at the Outdoor Nationals in Philadelphia and placed fifth. Vivian is a well-decorated and talented athlete whose work ethic makes Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District proud. I congratulate her on her tremendous accomplishments at both the state, and national levels, and I wish her many more years of success.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Minnesota State Senator Melissa Halvorson Wiklund for her distinguished service to the people of Minnesota and her lifelong dedication to improving the health and well-being of communities across our state. Born and raised in Bloomington, Minnesota, Senator Wiklund developed an appreciation for public service from her parents, a teacher and a state employee. She attended Bloomington Public Schools before graduating from the University of Minnesota with honors, earning degrees in electrical engineering and interior design. Before entering public service, Senator Wiklund built a successful career in the telecommunications and internet services industry, serving as an engineer, manager, and director. Her technical expertise, analytical approach, and thoughtful problem-solving would later become defining strengths throughout her legislative career, Driven by a desire to serve her community, Senator Wiklund was elected to the Bloomington School Board in 2009, where she advocated for students, educators, and efforts to reduce disparities in academic achievement. She was elected to the Minnesota Senate in 2012, representing Bloomington, Richfield, and Minneapolis, where she earned a reputation as a thoughtful, compassionate, and effective legislator. Throughout her four terms in the Senate, Senator Wiklund became a leading advocate for accessible, affordable health care. As Chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee and a member of the Commerce and Consumer Protection, Finance, and Human Services Committees, she championed landmark legislation that improved the lives of Minnesotans. Most notably, she authored the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act, helping ensure that individuals across Minnesota could access the life-saving insulin they depend upon. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Senator Wiklund is a devoted wife to her husband, Craig, a caring mother of two children, and a lifelong member of the Bloomington community. Her dedication to family, community, and public service has shaped every aspect of her life and career. Senator Wiklund's legacy will endure through the lives she has improved, the legislation she championed, and the communities she faithfully served. On behalf of the people of Minnesota, I extend my sincere gratitude for her years of dedicated service and wish her all the best in her retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate the Elizabethtown Area High School Esports team on securing its second consecutive Pennsylvania Interscholastic Esports Association state championship. The outstanding team of Peter Dunbar, Madalyn Guerrisi, Jackson Langlois, Anthony Lazzari Jaymian Ortiz, and Liam Shriner earned first place competing in Marvel Rivals, a superhero shooter game inspired by the Marvel Comics franchise. I also commend their coach, Mr. Austin Henderson, whose leadership and guidance were instrumental in achieving this remarkable victory. In addition to its impressive performance, the Elizabethtown Area High School Esports Team received an $80,000 state grant. This funding will allow the team to purchase gaming computers, consoles and furniture to establish a dedicated esports arena within the high school, providing a permanent space for practices and tournaments. I commend the Elizabethtown Area High School Esports Team for this exceptional achievement and the dedication its members have demonstrated. Programs like this foster teamwork, technical skills, and innovation among students, while strengthening educational opportunities across our District. I applaud the team's championship victory and wish them continued success.