John R. Carter
Representative for Texas · Republican · United States
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E693] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF CORPORAL DONALD RAY SIMONS ______…”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E693] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF CORPORAL DONALD RAY SIMONS ______…”
“His extraordinary bravery earned him the World War II Victory Medal after he courageously saved the lives of two fellow servicemembers, placing their safety above his own in the face of grave danger. Sergeant James Dawson embodied what it means to be an American.”
“His extraordinary bravery earned him the World War II Victory Medal after he courageously saved the lives of two fellow servicemembers, placing their safety above his own in the face of grave danger. Sergeant James Dawson embodied what it means to be an American.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E697] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF SPECIALIST FOURTH CLASS ALBERT FOU…”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E697] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF SPECIALIST FOURTH CLASS ALBERT FOU…”
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“On behalf of the people of Texas's 31st Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude and respect to a soldier who gave his service to this country. May he rest in peace, and may he finally receive the honors he has long been owed. ____________________”
“answered the call to serve, enlisting in the United States Army on May 12, 1961. He served as a Field Communication Crewman, a role essential to the coordination and command that holds our military together. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and qualified as a Marksman with the M-14 rifle, He was honorably discharged on April 27, 1964, having faithfully fulfilled his commitment to this Nation. We do not know all the chapters of Albert's life. But we know the most important one: when his country called, he serVed. He wore the uniform, he earned his discharge honorably, and he deserves to be remembered. Today, his name stands as testimony that Albert Fountain King, Jr., was not forgotten. No veteran should ever be.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E697] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF SPECIALIST FOURTH CLASS ALBERT FOUNTAIN KING, JR. ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Specialist Fourth Class Albert Fountain King, Jr., a United States Army veteran who served his Nation with honor and who was laid to rest on July 1, 2026, at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas. He will be buried with full military honors, as every veteran deserves. Albert Fountain King, Jr.”
“Those advancements safeguard us [[Page E696]] today, and his children and my grandchildren will reap their benefits for generations to come. I will always remember his enthusiasm, his generosity, and his unwavering commitment to strengthening both our innovation economy and our national security. Joshua is survived by his wife, Amy, and their children, Mikaela, Noah, and Sascha. Joshua Baer's legacy will live on through the entrepreneurs he inspired, the companies he helped build, and the innovation ecosystem he cultivated across Texas. On behalf of a grateful Central Texas, Mrs. Carter and I extend our deepest condolences to his family and to all who were fortunate enough to have known him. ____________________”
“He recognized the vital connection between innovation and national security, playing an instrumental role in bringing Army Futures Command to Austin and strengthening the partnership between the military and the technology community. I had the privilege of knowing Joshua and witnessing firsthand his passion for advancing innovation in Texas. On his many trips to Washington, he often visited my Capitol Hill office, where he proudly delivered one of Capital Factory's iconic robots for my collection, showcasing the remarkable technology companies that call Texas home. I am grateful to have called Joshua a friend and to have borne witness to his genius. He tirelessly championed priorities I shared, above all, the advancement of technology for our Nation's defense.”
“Born in Nashua, New Hampshire, Joshua earned degrees in Computer Science and Information and Decision Systems from Carnegie Mellon University, where he first demonstrated the entrepreneurial spirit that would define his career by co-authoring the technical standard that allows millions of people to unsubscribe from email lists with a single click. After moving to Austin in 1996, Joshua became a driving force behind the city's emergence as a global technology hub. In 2009, he founded Capital Factory, which grew into Texas' leading startup accelerator and the state's most active venture investor, supporting more than 1,000 companies, later opening a second site in Washington, D.C.--Station DC.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E695-E696] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOSHUA BAER ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Joshua Baer, a visionary entrepreneur, mentor, and community leader whose contributions transformed Central Texas into a global center for innovation. His passing is a tremendous loss for his family, the technology community, and our Nation.”
“He taught his children and grandchildren to care for others and always be there for the people they love. A faithful member of St. Richard's Episcopal Church, Larry lived those values every day through his kindness and service to others. Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his twelve children; his brother, Jimmy Hamby; 36 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren: and many other family members and friends. Mr. Speaker, Larry David Hamby, Sr. lived a life that left his family, his community, and Central Texas better than he found them. It is my honor to recognize his life and extend my deepest condolences to all who knew and loved him. ____________________”
“After leaving school to help support his family, he earned his Master's Plumbing License and built Hambone Plumbing and Hambone Sewer & Septic into respected businesses known throughout Central Texas for honest work and dependable service. Larry believed that success was measured by how you treated people. I had the pleasure of knowing him through his involvement with the Rotary Club and through countless acts of generosity, he gave back to his community and earned a reputation as someone who never met a stranger. Whether helping a neighbor, mentoring a young tradesman, or sharing a story with someone he had just met, Larry made people feel welcome and valued. Above all, Larry loved his family. Together with his wife, Barbara, he built a home centered on faith, love, and hard work.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E695] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] REMEMBERING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LARRY DAVID HAMBY, SR. ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Larry David Hamby, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, businessman, and community leader whose life was defined by hard work, integrity, faith, and service. Born in Austin, Texas, Larry was raised in humble circumstances that taught him the value of perseverance and determination.”
“His extraordinary bravery earned him the World War II Victory Medal after he courageously saved the lives of two fellow servicemembers, placing their safety above his own in the face of grave danger. Sergeant James Dawson embodied what it means to be an American. Through his sacrifice, courage, and steadfast commitment to others, he demonstrated the values that have long defined our Nation's Greatest Generation. His actions serve as a lasting reminder of the selfless service and heroism displayed by so many who fought to preserve the freedoms we enjoy today. On behalf of the 31st Congressional District of Texas, I extend my deepest gratitude for Sergeant James Dawson's faithful service to our country and honor the remarkable life he lived. May his legacy of courage, patriotism, and sacrifice continue to inspire generations to come.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E694] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF SERGEANT JAMES DAWSON ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Sergeant James Dawson, a proud World War II veteran whose courage, selflessness, and devotion to our Nation exemplified the highest ideals of American service. Born in Higgins, Texas, on March 21, 1921, Sergeant James Dawson answered the call to serve during World War II with unwavering dedication.”
“Our families grew close through our sons, who have been best friends for years, and I came to know Don not only as a talented artist but as a man of remarkable warmth and character. His friendship was a gift to me and my family, and his loss is felt deeply. Don Kent's legacy of service, generosity, and unwavering love will live on through his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him. I extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones as they honor his remarkable life. ____________________”
“He proudly served our Nation in the United States Marine Corps, where he developed the discipline and resilience that guided him throughout his life. Following his military service, he attended the University of Maryland before embarking on a successful career as an entrepreneur. Don also dedicated 25 years to his passion for art. Alongside his beloved wife, Jo Ann, he traveled the country sharing his artwork and touching countless lives through his creativity, warmth, and kindness. I am proud to have his paintings hanging in my home and office, daily reminders of his talent and of our friendship. Known for his quick wit and generous spirit, Don lived out his faith through humility, compassion, and service to others.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E694] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DONALD ``DON'' KENT ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of my dear friend Donald ``Don'' Kent, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Marine, entrepreneur, artist, and faithful servant whose life reflected the values of faith, family, and service. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, Don lived a life defined by integrity and hard work.”
“On behalf of the people of Texas's 31st Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude and respect for his service and his sacrifice. May Corporal Donald Ray Simons rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire all who cherish the freedoms secured by those who serve. ____________________”
“During his time in uniform, he faithfully carried out his responsibilities with professionalism and integrity, embodying the courage and commitment that defines America's Soldiers. His service reflects the enduring values of honor, duty, and patriotism that have long distinguished the men and women of the United States Army. While we may not know every chapter of Corporal Simons' life, we know this: when his country called, he answered. He wore the uniform with pride, served honorably, and earned the enduring gratitude of the Nation he defended. Today, his name stands as testimony, so that future generations may know his service and remember his name. No veteran's sacrifice should fade from our memory.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E693] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF CORPORAL DONALD RAY SIMONS ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Corporal Donald Ray Simons, a United States Army veteran who served his Nation with honor and who will be laid to rest with the dignity and military honors he earned through his faithful service. Corporal Simons answered the call to serve by enlisting in the United States Army, where he served honorably from July 18, 1958, to July 17, 1961.”
“It is my honor to recognize her extraordinary legacy, one year after her passing, and to extend my deepest sympathies to her family and all who mourn her absence. ____________________”
“A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Eva dedicated herself to her family and community. She volunteered in local schools and civic organizations, believing deeply in the principles of liberty, education, and personal responsibility. She was also a successful businesswoman, an avid reader, a gifted storyteller, and a gracious hostess whose warmth and generosity touched everyone she met. Eva is survived by her four children, fifteen grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, her sister, and many extended family members who will carry forward her legacy of faith, perseverance, and patriotism. Eva Hahn's remarkable life stands as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.”
“She witnessed the brutality of Nazi occupation, including her father's imprisonment for helping Jewish friends, and later fled her homeland with her family to escape communist oppression. After spending time in a refugee camp in Austria, she emigrated to Australia before ultimately making her home in the United States. Eva's determination carried her through every chapter of her life. She excelled academically, contributed to the production of Australia's first Salk polio vaccine, and later worked in medical research after settling in San Antonio, Texas. She married Dr. H. Herbert Hahn, II, and together they served abroad while he practiced medicine with the United States Foreign Service before making Temple, Texas, their permanent home.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E692] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF EVA CHARLOTTE HAHN ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Eva Charlotte Hahn, whose extraordinary journey embodied courage, resilience, faith, and an unwavering love of freedom. Born in 1938 in Jihlava, Czechoslovakia, Eva's childhood was shaped by the hardships of World War II and the rise of communism.”
“Her leadership, professionalism, and dedication have earned the respect of her colleagues and the gratitude of the people she serves. On behalf of the people of Texas's 31st Congressional District, I thank Staff Sergeant Davis for her years of faithful service and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition. I wish her all the best in the years to come and thank her for the example she has set for others who choose a life of public service. ____________________”
“She began her career with the Burnet County Sheriff's Office at just 19 years old as a dispatcher. Over the years, she has served in nearly every facet of the department, including as a jailer, patrol deputy, patrol corporal, Criminal Investigations Division investigator, and Administrative Staff Sergeant. Her career is a testament to her work ethic and her willingness to serve wherever she was needed. Those who know her best often say she grew up in the Burnet County Sheriff's Office, and after more than two decades of service, it is easy to see why. She has dedicated her career to protecting her community and supporting those around her. Mr. Speaker, public servants like Staff Sergeant Kristin Davis make our communities stronger and safer.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E691] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING STAFF SERGEANT KRISTIN DAVIS ON HER RETIREMENT ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Staff Sergeant Kristin Davis of the Burnet County Sheriff's Office for her dedicated service to the people of Burnet County and Central Texas, on her retirement. For more than 22 years, Staff Sergeant Davis has served her community with professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.”
“On behalf of the people of Texas's 31st Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude and respect to a soldier who gave his service to this country. May he rest in peace, and may he finally receive the honors he has long been owed. ____________________”
“answered the call to serve, enlisting in the United States Army on May 12, 1961. He served as a Field Communication Crewman, a role essential to the coordination and command that holds our military together. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and qualified as a Marksman with the M-14 rifle, He was honorably discharged on April 27, 1964, having faithfully fulfilled his commitment to this Nation. We do not know all the chapters of Albert's life. But we know the most important one: when his country called, he serVed. He wore the uniform, he earned his discharge honorably, and he deserves to be remembered. Today, his name stands as testimony that Albert Fountain King, Jr., was not forgotten. No veteran should ever be.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E697] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF SPECIALIST FOURTH CLASS ALBERT FOUNTAIN KING, JR. ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Specialist Fourth Class Albert Fountain King, Jr., a United States Army veteran who served his Nation with honor and who was laid to rest on July 1, 2026, at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas. He will be buried with full military honors, as every veteran deserves. Albert Fountain King, Jr.”
“Those advancements safeguard us [[Page E696]] today, and his children and my grandchildren will reap their benefits for generations to come. I will always remember his enthusiasm, his generosity, and his unwavering commitment to strengthening both our innovation economy and our national security. Joshua is survived by his wife, Amy, and their children, Mikaela, Noah, and Sascha. Joshua Baer's legacy will live on through the entrepreneurs he inspired, the companies he helped build, and the innovation ecosystem he cultivated across Texas. On behalf of a grateful Central Texas, Mrs. Carter and I extend our deepest condolences to his family and to all who were fortunate enough to have known him. ____________________”
“He recognized the vital connection between innovation and national security, playing an instrumental role in bringing Army Futures Command to Austin and strengthening the partnership between the military and the technology community. I had the privilege of knowing Joshua and witnessing firsthand his passion for advancing innovation in Texas. On his many trips to Washington, he often visited my Capitol Hill office, where he proudly delivered one of Capital Factory's iconic robots for my collection, showcasing the remarkable technology companies that call Texas home. I am grateful to have called Joshua a friend and to have borne witness to his genius. He tirelessly championed priorities I shared, above all, the advancement of technology for our Nation's defense.”
“Born in Nashua, New Hampshire, Joshua earned degrees in Computer Science and Information and Decision Systems from Carnegie Mellon University, where he first demonstrated the entrepreneurial spirit that would define his career by co-authoring the technical standard that allows millions of people to unsubscribe from email lists with a single click. After moving to Austin in 1996, Joshua became a driving force behind the city's emergence as a global technology hub. In 2009, he founded Capital Factory, which grew into Texas' leading startup accelerator and the state's most active venture investor, supporting more than 1,000 companies, later opening a second site in Washington, D.C.--Station DC.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E695-E696] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOSHUA BAER ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Joshua Baer, a visionary entrepreneur, mentor, and community leader whose contributions transformed Central Texas into a global center for innovation. His passing is a tremendous loss for his family, the technology community, and our Nation.”
“He taught his children and grandchildren to care for others and always be there for the people they love. A faithful member of St. Richard's Episcopal Church, Larry lived those values every day through his kindness and service to others. Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his twelve children; his brother, Jimmy Hamby; 36 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren: and many other family members and friends. Mr. Speaker, Larry David Hamby, Sr. lived a life that left his family, his community, and Central Texas better than he found them. It is my honor to recognize his life and extend my deepest condolences to all who knew and loved him. ____________________”
“After leaving school to help support his family, he earned his Master's Plumbing License and built Hambone Plumbing and Hambone Sewer & Septic into respected businesses known throughout Central Texas for honest work and dependable service. Larry believed that success was measured by how you treated people. I had the pleasure of knowing him through his involvement with the Rotary Club and through countless acts of generosity, he gave back to his community and earned a reputation as someone who never met a stranger. Whether helping a neighbor, mentoring a young tradesman, or sharing a story with someone he had just met, Larry made people feel welcome and valued. Above all, Larry loved his family. Together with his wife, Barbara, he built a home centered on faith, love, and hard work.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E695] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] REMEMBERING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LARRY DAVID HAMBY, SR. ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Larry David Hamby, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, businessman, and community leader whose life was defined by hard work, integrity, faith, and service. Born in Austin, Texas, Larry was raised in humble circumstances that taught him the value of perseverance and determination.”
“His extraordinary bravery earned him the World War II Victory Medal after he courageously saved the lives of two fellow servicemembers, placing their safety above his own in the face of grave danger. Sergeant James Dawson embodied what it means to be an American. Through his sacrifice, courage, and steadfast commitment to others, he demonstrated the values that have long defined our Nation's Greatest Generation. His actions serve as a lasting reminder of the selfless service and heroism displayed by so many who fought to preserve the freedoms we enjoy today. On behalf of the 31st Congressional District of Texas, I extend my deepest gratitude for Sergeant James Dawson's faithful service to our country and honor the remarkable life he lived. May his legacy of courage, patriotism, and sacrifice continue to inspire generations to come.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E694] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF SERGEANT JAMES DAWSON ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Sergeant James Dawson, a proud World War II veteran whose courage, selflessness, and devotion to our Nation exemplified the highest ideals of American service. Born in Higgins, Texas, on March 21, 1921, Sergeant James Dawson answered the call to serve during World War II with unwavering dedication.”
“Our families grew close through our sons, who have been best friends for years, and I came to know Don not only as a talented artist but as a man of remarkable warmth and character. His friendship was a gift to me and my family, and his loss is felt deeply. Don Kent's legacy of service, generosity, and unwavering love will live on through his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him. I extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones as they honor his remarkable life. ____________________”
“He proudly served our Nation in the United States Marine Corps, where he developed the discipline and resilience that guided him throughout his life. Following his military service, he attended the University of Maryland before embarking on a successful career as an entrepreneur. Don also dedicated 25 years to his passion for art. Alongside his beloved wife, Jo Ann, he traveled the country sharing his artwork and touching countless lives through his creativity, warmth, and kindness. I am proud to have his paintings hanging in my home and office, daily reminders of his talent and of our friendship. Known for his quick wit and generous spirit, Don lived out his faith through humility, compassion, and service to others.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E694] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DONALD ``DON'' KENT ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of my dear friend Donald ``Don'' Kent, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Marine, entrepreneur, artist, and faithful servant whose life reflected the values of faith, family, and service. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, Don lived a life defined by integrity and hard work.”
“On behalf of the people of Texas's 31st Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude and respect for his service and his sacrifice. May Corporal Donald Ray Simons rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire all who cherish the freedoms secured by those who serve. ____________________”
“During his time in uniform, he faithfully carried out his responsibilities with professionalism and integrity, embodying the courage and commitment that defines America's Soldiers. His service reflects the enduring values of honor, duty, and patriotism that have long distinguished the men and women of the United States Army. While we may not know every chapter of Corporal Simons' life, we know this: when his country called, he answered. He wore the uniform with pride, served honorably, and earned the enduring gratitude of the Nation he defended. Today, his name stands as testimony, so that future generations may know his service and remember his name. No veteran's sacrifice should fade from our memory.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E693] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF CORPORAL DONALD RAY SIMONS ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Corporal Donald Ray Simons, a United States Army veteran who served his Nation with honor and who will be laid to rest with the dignity and military honors he earned through his faithful service. Corporal Simons answered the call to serve by enlisting in the United States Army, where he served honorably from July 18, 1958, to July 17, 1961.”
“It is my honor to recognize her extraordinary legacy, one year after her passing, and to extend my deepest sympathies to her family and all who mourn her absence. ____________________”
“A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Eva dedicated herself to her family and community. She volunteered in local schools and civic organizations, believing deeply in the principles of liberty, education, and personal responsibility. She was also a successful businesswoman, an avid reader, a gifted storyteller, and a gracious hostess whose warmth and generosity touched everyone she met. Eva is survived by her four children, fifteen grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, her sister, and many extended family members who will carry forward her legacy of faith, perseverance, and patriotism. Eva Hahn's remarkable life stands as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.”
“She witnessed the brutality of Nazi occupation, including her father's imprisonment for helping Jewish friends, and later fled her homeland with her family to escape communist oppression. After spending time in a refugee camp in Austria, she emigrated to Australia before ultimately making her home in the United States. Eva's determination carried her through every chapter of her life. She excelled academically, contributed to the production of Australia's first Salk polio vaccine, and later worked in medical research after settling in San Antonio, Texas. She married Dr. H. Herbert Hahn, II, and together they served abroad while he practiced medicine with the United States Foreign Service before making Temple, Texas, their permanent home.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E692] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF EVA CHARLOTTE HAHN ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Eva Charlotte Hahn, whose extraordinary journey embodied courage, resilience, faith, and an unwavering love of freedom. Born in 1938 in Jihlava, Czechoslovakia, Eva's childhood was shaped by the hardships of World War II and the rise of communism.”
“Her leadership, professionalism, and dedication have earned the respect of her colleagues and the gratitude of the people she serves. On behalf of the people of Texas's 31st Congressional District, I thank Staff Sergeant Davis for her years of faithful service and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition. I wish her all the best in the years to come and thank her for the example she has set for others who choose a life of public service. ____________________”
“She began her career with the Burnet County Sheriff's Office at just 19 years old as a dispatcher. Over the years, she has served in nearly every facet of the department, including as a jailer, patrol deputy, patrol corporal, Criminal Investigations Division investigator, and Administrative Staff Sergeant. Her career is a testament to her work ethic and her willingness to serve wherever she was needed. Those who know her best often say she grew up in the Burnet County Sheriff's Office, and after more than two decades of service, it is easy to see why. She has dedicated her career to protecting her community and supporting those around her. Mr. Speaker, public servants like Staff Sergeant Kristin Davis make our communities stronger and safer.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E691] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING STAFF SERGEANT KRISTIN DAVIS ON HER RETIREMENT ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Staff Sergeant Kristin Davis of the Burnet County Sheriff's Office for her dedicated service to the people of Burnet County and Central Texas, on her retirement. For more than 22 years, Staff Sergeant Davis has served her community with professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.”