[Pages H290-H293]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS IN TEXAS' SIXTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under the Speaker's announced policy of 
January 3, 2025, the Chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas (Mr. 
Ellzey) for 30 minutes.


                             General Leave

  Mr. ELLZEY. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may 
have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include 
extraneous material on the subject of this Special Order.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentleman from Texas?
  There was no objection.
  Mr. ELLZEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a deep sense of pride and 
gratitude for the people of this great Nation and the incredible 
achievements of my constituents in the Sixth Congressional District of 
Texas.
  Our country is rich with individuals who embody the values of 
service, dedication, and unity. Today, I have the honor of celebrating 
some of those remarkable people.
  The United States is home to the most generous people on Earth. We 
are home to the most productive people on the planet who worship freely 
and then volunteer their remaining time to help others in need.
  Our Nation is a beacon of compassion and hope for the rest of the 
world. We are blessed with heroes who save lives daily, not only our 
police officers and firefighters but also our teachers, medical 
professionals, construction workers, and so many others.
  Acts of heroism happen in our country every day by folks who want to 
see others succeed, our country grow, and our communities thrive.
  These quiet acts of courage and service often go unnoticed, but they 
are the

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foundation of what makes us who we are. They are what make our Nation 
strong, resilient, and caring.
  Though the media may have you believe otherwise, Washington, D.C., is 
not an exception to this commonality in our country. Here, too, acts of 
courage and patriotism happen every day. These remarkable people span 
across political lines, demonstrating that bipartisanship is not only 
alive but thriving.
  I am fortunate to work alongside dedicated public servants on both 
sides of the aisle, all united by a shared goal of improving the lives 
of the citizens we represent and advancing the well-being of our great 
Nation.
  Growing up, you never know how things are going to impact you and how 
some act of courage, big or small, will shake you. This speech that I 
give every once in a while is a direct result of such an act.
  When I was a kid growing up in Perryton, in the Texas Panhandle, 7 
miles from the Oklahoma border, that other country, on Sunday, we would 
all go to church. Without fail, our pastor would start off every Sunday 
service with what he called joys and concerns. During this, he would 
highlight some of the remarkable things that members of the church are 
doing and some of their accomplishments. He would also take this time 
to bring up the prayer requests that members of our congregation 
needed.
  Since I have been in Congress, I have given my own version of joys 
and concerns. Looking back now, I am sure he never knew that, because 
of his simple choice to recognize people in our congregation, I would 
bring that tradition to the Halls of the Nation's Capitol.
  I want to begin my joys by congratulating some outstanding 
individuals for their achievements.
  Mollie McCalister of the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office received 
the Hero Award for her lifesaving efforts as a 911 operator. Her quick 
thinking and composure in a high-pressure situation allowed her to 
gather critical information and guide emergency responders effectively, 
ultimately saving a woman's life.
  I recognize Julio Ambris of Midlothian High School for his heroic, 
lifesaving CPR actions. Julio demonstrated remarkable courage and 
presence of mind, applying his training to save a life during a 
critical emergency.
  I recognize Officer Klint Valley--who I know very well since my 
daughter goes to this school--of Midlothian Heritage High School for 
performing lifesaving measures on a choking victim. Officer Valley's 
swift response and professionalism averted a tragedy and highlighted 
the value of quick action and outstanding training.
  I recognize Captains Jared Ussery and Lance Wilkinson and 
Firefighters Jorge Guerrero and Justin Slovak of Red Oak Fire-Rescue 
for their Unit Citation and Medal of Valor awards during the Smokehouse 
Creek wildfire, not in our district. Their heroic actions under extreme 
conditions protected lives and property, showcasing their dedication 
and bravery.
  I recognize Lindsey Batchelor, principal of Neches High School, and 
Cory Hines, the superintendent of Neches ISD, for achieving National 
Blue Ribbon School status for Neches High School. Their leadership and 
dedication to fostering an exceptional learning environment have 
elevated the district to national recognition.
  I recognize Anely Sandoval and Emiliano Tavera of Jacksonville High 
School for their service project of repainting iconic tomato statues in 
Jacksonville. Their initiative and hard work have preserved a beloved 
community symbol and inspired civil pride.
  I recognize Officer Donald Nguyen, Officer Jennifer Thurman, and 
Officer Bourget for receiving Mothers Against Drunk Driving awards for 
their dedication to keeping our roads safe. Their efforts have made a 
measurable impact in reducing impaired driving and protecting lives.
  I recognize Nikki Chaffin for exceptional work as a recipient of the 
Heroes for Children award. Nikki's dedication to supporting students 
and teachers in Elkhart ISD has enriched the community and fostered a 
nurturing educational environment.
  I recognize Vicki and Stephen Braly for their 100 years of service 
through Bralys ACE Hardware in Palestine. Their family business is a 
cornerstone of the community, providing essential services and a legacy 
of excellence.
  I recognize Robbie Griffin and Cason's Flowers for 100 years of 
dedicated service in Corsicana. Their longstanding commitment to 
quality and community engagement has made them a cherished institution.
  I recognize Suzanne King and the Alvarado Lions Club for their 85 
years of service to the community. Their efforts in addressing local 
needs and empowering residents exemplify the spirit of service.
  I recognize Steve Black of Fairfield High School for his induction 
into the Agricultural Teachers Association of Texas 2024 Hall of Fame. 
Steve's passion for agricultural education has inspired countless 
students and shaped the future of Texas agriculture.
  I recognize Battalion Chief Gary Myers and Scott Smith on their 
retirements from Waxahachie Fire-Rescue and Midlothian Fire Department, 
respectively, after decades of service to those communities. Their 
leadership and dedication have left an enduring impact on their 
departments and communities with years of lifesaving.
  I recognize Tommie Eberhart of the Ellis County Sheriff's Office and 
Morris Steward of the Navarro County Sheriff's Office for their 
retirements after long and impactful law enforcement careers. Their 
unwavering commitment to public safety has made their communities safer 
and stronger.
  I recognize Jennifer Johnson and her organization, Brave Like Ellie, 
for their incredible work supporting families battling pediatric 
cancer. Jennifer's compassion and dedication provide hope and support 
during life's most challenging moments.
  I recognize Flo Torres of Mansfield ISD for her leadership in the 
Toys for Tots campaign, recognized as Region 5 Campaign of the Year. 
Her efforts have brought joy and relief to countless children and 
families during the holiday season.
  I recognize James Smith and David Albright for their contributions to 
mentorship through the Mentors Care program. Their guidance and 
encouragement have transformed lives and opened doors to brighter 
futures.
  I recognize Dr. Darrell Brown, superintendent of Hillsboro ISD, and 
Patrick Harvell, principal of Hillsboro Junior High School, for their 
leadership in earning Hillsboro Junior High School recognition as a 
2024 National Blue Ribbon School. Their vision and commitment to 
academic excellence have created opportunities for students to thrive.
  Richard Clark, a Vietnam veteran--I welcome him home--celebrates his 
85th birthday this January. His service and sacrifice have exemplified 
the courage and honor of our veterans.
  Ray Knowles, a Navy veteran of Korea and Vietnam, turns 91 this 
month. His legacy of service continues to inspire those around him.
  James Purdy, a Vietnam Air Force veteran, is marking his 82nd 
birthday this January. His contributions to our Nation's defense will 
never be forgotten.
  John Murphy, an Air Force veteran of Vietnam and the Cold War, is 
celebrating his 85th birthday this month. His dedication to our country 
is a testament to his enduring spirit and love of country.
  Jerry Davis, an Air Force Vietnam veteran, turns 86 years old this 
month. His service and resilience continue to inspire.
  Joe Waller, an Army veteran of the Cold War, celebrates his 95th 
birthday this month. Happy birthday to Joe. His remarkable life of 
service reminds us of the strength and commitment of our veterans.
  I also wish to congratulate the following students on their academy 
nominations for the class of 2029. It is extremely important to me. 
This is a job that I don't ask anybody's permission. We get to select 
the best and brightest our Nation and communities have to offer. As a 
graduate of the Naval Academy, this is a role I take very, very 
seriously. Merit is what counts.

                              {time}  1800

  Nominated to the United States Naval Academy are:
  Paul Geary of Bishop Dunne High School;
  Tristan Russell of Mansfield Legacy High School;

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  Maximus Stalker of Abbott High School;
  Sebastian Parker-Villegas of Mansfield High School; and
  Bradford Webster of Randolph-Macon Academy of Ennis.
  Nominated to the Air Force Academy are:
  Tanner Connel of Fort Worth Christian School;
  Cooper Davis of Midlothian Heritage High School;
  Isaac Freeman of Midlothian Heritage High School;
  Kaitlyn Maxson of Mansfield Lake Ridge High School;
  Nathan Sisson of Acellus Academy of Jacksonville; and
  Elijah Thayer of Maypearl High School.
  Nominated to the United States Military Academy at West Point are:
  Ryder Havard of Arlington Martin High School;
  Madelyn Hickey of Burleson Centennial High School;
  Noah Sparks of Alvarado High School; and
  Dylan Sturgell of Ennis High School.
  Go Navy, beat Army.
  I have the hardest working staff on the Hill, and over the last 
several years they have been instrumental in helping me represent the 
Sixth Congressional District of Texas. Today, many of my staff reached 
new milestones in their professional careers, and I want to share it 
with all the folks back home.
  Madison Newsom of Mansfield has been promoted to director of 
operations.
  Grace Dunlap has been promoted to general counsel.
  Owen Dankworth has been promoted to legislative director.
  Don Barber has been promoted to executive director of the For Country 
Caucus.
  While this is both sad and exciting for me, Georgette, she goes by 
George, Mbengue will be leaving this office this fall and will attend 
law school at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. I congratulate 
George. She has done a wonderful job for us. We will miss her, but we 
will see her again.
  As every Member knows, this job is impossible without great staff. So 
I sincerely thank them for all of the work and dedication they have 
shown me, our district, and this country.
  Just like back in church in Perryton, after the joys would come 
concerns, and there was never a shortage because, as we all know, as He 
says in Matthew 18:20: ``For where two or three are gathered together 
in my name, I am there among them.''
  So I would like to ask all those in this Chamber and who watch this 
online to keep these and all Americans in your prayers:
  Amy from Arlington is asking for strength and healing as her father 
undergoes treatment for cancer.
  David from Mansfield is filled with hope as his wife recovers from a 
recent surgery. May her journey to wellness continue smoothly.
  Jessica from Corsicana requests comfort and resilience for her son, 
who faces a challenging road to recovery after an accident.
  Robert from Waxahachie seeks peace and patience as his mother bravely 
battles Alzheimer's disease.
  Emily from Red Oak asks for encouragement and support for her 
daughter, who is navigating significant mental health challenges.
  Michael from Midlothian remains hopeful as his newborn son fights for 
strength in the NICU.
  Lisa from Hillsboro is thankful for every step forward as her husband 
recovers from a heart attack. May his progress continue steadily.
  John from Alvarado hopes for healing and guidance for his sister, 
recently diagnosed with a chronic illness.
  Sophia from Palestine prays for her family as they grieve the loss of 
a cherished loved one, seeking comfort and unity during this difficult 
time.
  Andrew from Grandview asks for successful outcomes and a smooth 
recovery as his brother prepares for a critical surgery.
  I would also like to take a moment to honor Bobby Eugene Osborne, 
whose obituary reminds us of his contributions and the legacy he leaves 
behind.
  Bobby Eugene Osborne passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by 
close friends, whom he called family, on the evening of Friday, 
November 15, 2024, in Waxahachie, Texas.
  Bob was born on February 25, 1924, in Elmo, Texas, to Michie and 
Bessie Mae Osborne. The family moved to Dallas and later to Waco in 
1934 where his father took a job building the VA hospital. Bobby 
attended Waco High School until being drafted shortly after his 
birthday in 1943. He joined the war effort before completing his senior 
year. He proudly chose the Navy, taking the oath of office on March 12, 
1943.
  Bob served his country aboard the USS Chester, CA-27, a heavy cruiser 
of the Fifth Battle Cruiser Division, as a hot shell man for one of the 
5-inch guns. He fought in the battles of Tarawa, Saipan, and Iwo Jima, 
among others. Bob spent a total of 28 months in active sea duty. After 
the war, Bob signed on for extra duty to sail the USS Chester from 
California to her reserve position in Philadelphia, navigating the 
Panama Canal in the process.
  Three months after returning home from the military, Bob gave Ida 
Loudale Vinson a ride on his motorcycle outside of a local bowling 
alley. He was a man of my own heart. The two were married a few months 
later on December 20, 1947. They shared 62 years of marriage before 
Dale's passing in 2009. Their beautiful union created two magnificent 
children: David Lance Osborne and Darlene Dale Osborne.
  He had a long career with Otis Elevator working as a mechanic in 
Waco, San Antonio, and Lubbock before retiring in 1983. While in San 
Antonio, he helped build the Hemisphere Tower where he was the main 
elevator mechanic. He lived in Alaska for a couple of years where he 
worked on the pipeline. He and Dale moved to Waxahachie in 1984 where 
he opened Bob's Machine Shop & Welding.
  Bob had no shortage of adventures in his 100 years of life. He pulled 
his travel trailer across the frozen highways of Alaska in temperatures 
of negative 78 degrees. He raced and did acrobatic tricks on his 
motorcycle in his younger days, drove dirt bikes in the mountains of 
Colorado, and continued to ride up through his late nineties. He even 
served as a search and rescue diver in waters around San Antonio.

  As adventurous a spirit as he may have been, he was a loyal and 
genuine man. That was evidenced through his 62-year marriage with Dale 
and his commitment to his shipmates through USS Chester reunions. Mr. 
Speaker, you could always find him at local cafes or biker hangouts 
around town where everyone knew his name.
  Bob was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lou Dale; son, Lance; 
daughter, Darlene; brothers, Bill, Don, and Tex; and sisters, Betty Sue 
and Rose.
  He is survived by his partner in crime and loyal friend, Dan Cepak; 
granddaughter and caregiver, Jenny Fuller; and faithful friends, Jason 
Roy and Chase Colwell. He is survived also by his grandson, Kelly 
Schubach; great-granddaughter, Amanda Schubach; great-grandsons, Cody 
Schubach and Corey Schubach, all of San Antonio; and his two great-
great-grandsons, Finn Schubach and Nick Schubach.
  He is also survived by many, too numerous to list, close friends and 
family.
  May Bobby's memory be a blessing.
  I would also like to extend our prayers and support to the families 
impacted by the devastating fires in California. These fires have 
upended lives, destroyed homes, and tested the resilience of countless 
communities.
  Let us lift up those who are mourning, those who are rebuilding, and 
the brave first responders working tirelessly to protect lives and 
property. May they find strength, comfort, and hope in the face of 
adversity.
  Lastly, with great sadness, I want to take a minute to honor the life 
of Patty Jung Williams. Patty was a remarkable woman not just for her 
many accomplishments but for the heart and soul she put into everything 
she did. From running a successful business to giving back to her 
community, Patty's hard work and kindness made a real difference to 
those back home and those in this Chamber.
  As we pray for Congressman Roger Williams her husband; their 
children, Jaclyn and Sabrina; and the whole family, I ask the good Lord 
to wrap them in His loving arms and give them peace in this difficult 
time. Patty's legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in all of 
us.
  Each of these individuals and organizations exemplifies the best of 
our

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community, service, leadership, and dedication. Their achievements are 
milestones that deserve to be celebrated.
  As I bring this to a close, I would like for us to remember that our 
country's greatness lies in the strength of its people. Together, 
through unity, perseverance, and faith, we can continue to overcome 
challenges and build a brighter future.
  As we embark on a new Congress and new Presidency, may we all strive 
to honor and support one another in the spirit of community, service, 
and unity that our Founders fought so hard to preserve. May we remember 
to keep our faith in God and our hope in man. It is going to come out 
okay.
  Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

                          ____________________