Typhoon Yolanda

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, today, I stand with my neighbors in Illinois and express my deepest sympathies to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda. More than 4,000 Filipinos died in this tragedy, and millions more are now in need of assistance.

While we mourn for those who suffer, I am also inspired by the resilience of the victims and of the generosity of the American people. I want the people of the Philippines to know that we stand with you.

Our brave men and women stationed in Okinawa were on the ground, evacuating victims and dispersing supplies within 2 days of the storm hitting. Local communities throughout the United States, including my district, are also helping. Motorola Solutions, based in Schaumburg, Illinois, and its employees have already donated $150,000 and emergency equipment to help with the recovery. We in the Eighth District will not forget our Filipino friends and families.

Yesterday, members of the Illinois congressional delegation and I also sent a letter to Secretary Hagel, asking that the men and women of the Illinois National Guard be allowed to fly their C-130s of supplies, collected in Illinois, to the Philippines in order to assist with the recovery. I know the dedication and professionalism of these men and women, and I am certain that their contribution will save lives.

Citizens of the world look to the United States for leadership in difficult times; and time and again our Nation has stepped forward to help those in need. I am proud that America is doing so much to help the victims of Typhoon Yolanda, but I also know that that need, that that assistance will be needed well into the future as the Philippines continue to recover.

Again, to our Filipino friends and families, we stand with you.

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