Congratulating Admiral John Aquilino
Floor Speech
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Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, the people of Guam would like to congratulate and recognize Admiral John Aquilino, call sign ``LUNG.''
Admiral Aquilino began his career as a midshipman at the U.S. Navy Academy. Upon graduating in 1984, he would go on to receive his aviator wings.
Over his four decades of service in the U.S. Navy, he performed his duties with distinction. From his first fighter squadron assignment to commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, he has stood a most commendable watch.
As the admiral stood his last watch as commander of the U.S. Indo- Pacific Command, he ensured 375,000 servicemembers and civilian personnel maintained a bias toward action and excellence. This was especially the case in his service to the land of America's first sunrise, Guam.
During his tenure as INDOPACOM commander, he led the establishment of the Joint Task Force Micronesia and continually advocated for the Guam Missile Defense System.
His efforts ensured the people of Guam know that the Defense Department is committed to defending the homeland and our allies globally.
As the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command welcomes Admiral Paparo, we would like to take time to thank Admiral Aquilino and his family for their support, advocacy, and commitment to the Navy and our Nation.
Today, we take pause to witness this shipmate go ashore for the final time. May God bless Admiral Aquilino. We wish him fair winds and following seas. Hooyah. Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
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Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, as the Nation celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I proudly rise to recognize my community, the island of Guam.
Over 7,000 miles away from the U.S. mainland resides a proud community of Chamorros, Filipino Americans, Korean Americans, Micronesians, and an array of other ethnicities. We are a melting pot of different cultures and backgrounds united by our shared values and beliefs.
At the core of it all lies ``inafa maolek,'' which means ``restore harmony'' or ``make good.'' The concept of inafa maolek plays a significant role within our Asian-American and Pacific Islander community on Guam. This cultural value encourages community members to uplift one another, take care of each other, and work toward a common goal of unity and harmony.
As Guam's Representative in Congress, I am committed to ensuring that the voices and perspectives of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are heard on the national stage.
During this month, may we continue to pay tribute to the achievements and invaluable contributions of over 50 ethnic groups speaking more than 100 languages and dialects. Let us honor the rich diversity of cultures, traditions, and contributions that the AAPI community has woven into American history.
To my community back home and fellow islanders on the mainland, I extend my warmest wishes during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
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