HONORING THE NEXT GENERATION OF SERVICEMEMBERS

On 2026-06-04, Representative Mike Haridopolos (R-FL-8) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE NEXT GENERATION OF SERVICEMEMBERS" in the House.

HONORING THE NEXT GENERATION OF SERVICEMEMBERS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 95 (Thursday, June 4, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 95 (Thursday, June 4, 2026)] [House] [Pages H3836-H3837] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE NEXT GENERATION OF SERVICEMEMBERS (Mr. Haridopolos of Florida was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) [[Page H3837]] Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary event on Florida's Space Coast. At the 2026 Space Coast Enlistment Ceremony, more than 230 young men and women took the next step in their commitment to serve our Nation by enlisting in the United States Armed Forces. This is a remarkable event and was the vision of Brevard Public Schools Board Chair Matt Susin, whose leadership helped create a meaningful opportunity to honor these young Americans as they begin a life of service. As the father of a servicemember, I recognize that these individuals are choosing a path defined by duty, sacrifice, and love of their country. They will serve in the Air Force, Marine Corps, Army National Guard, Navy, and Coast Guard, carrying forward the legacy of those who have defended our freedoms in the past. The ceremony also brought together 241 Junior ROTC cadets from across Brevard County, a reminder that the next generation is already preparing to lead. On the Space Coast, we understand freedom is protected by those who are willing to step forward, and today we honor these enlistees, their families, and the leaders like Matt Susin and the members of the Brevard County Schools Board, who are helping to inspire the next generation of American service. Strengthening Port Canaveral and Florida's Space Coast Ceremony Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight a major investment on Florida's Space Coast. I was proud to join local leaders at Port Canaveral to announce a $20 million Federal grant that will support the construction of new cargo berths that will strengthen one of the Nation's most important ports. Port Canaveral is far more than just a cruise destination. It is a critical economic engine for our region, supporting jobs, commerce, and supply chain necessary to keep Florida moving. This investment will expand not only the cargo capacity but the overall infrastructure that is needed in challenging times. For the Space Coast, this means more opportunities, more jobs, and continued economic momentum for the families and businesses that call the Space Coast home. They will have the fuel necessary in all times of trouble. This is exactly the kind of practical investment that we need to continue to make sure Florida continues to lead the Nation in growth. Honoring the Life of Darcia Jones Francey Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Darcia Jones Francey, a true champion of Brevard County whose impact will be felt for generations. A third-generation Brevardian, Darcia devoted her life to making her community and our community stronger. She was known as a connector of people, someone who brought together people in support of causes that mattered and endured. This effort is not unnoticed. Darcia served on countless boards and different community groups, supporting organizations across the Space Coast, from the arts to healthcare and programs helping those truly in need. Her dedication as a volunteer and community work leader helped raise awareness, build partnerships, and strengthen the fabric of Brevard County. Darcia also had a unique ability to make everyone around her feel valued and important, leaving a lasting impression on all of us who knew her. Today, we remember Darcia not only for what she did but how she lived--with purpose, passion, and a deep love of our community. Honoring Alec Hall of Alliance Cyber Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding veteran, entrepreneur, and leader from Florida's Space Coast, Alec Hall. Alec is the president of Alliance Cyber, a service-disabled, veteran- owned small business based in Cocoa, Florida. Through Alec's leadership, Alliance Cyber provides cybersecurity and IT solutions that protect government agencies, nonprofits, and businesses across our State and beyond. Alec's impact goes far beyond business. Through the Alliance Cyber Gives Foundation, his team supports STEM education, workforce development, and career pathways for transitioning servicemembers, investing directly in the next generations. It is because of these efforts that we recognize Alec Hall and the amazing work at Alliance Cyber. ____________________