This week is National FFA Week, and there is no better time to recognize the incredible work this program does. As a former member of the FFA, I know firsthand how vital this program is for youth not only in Central Washington, but across the country.

FFA helps to advance a student’s knowledge of agriculture, and teaches them how to cultivate community relationships, take on leadership opportunities, and become further educated on the changing world around us.

In order to be able to feed our nation in the future, we need to prioritize our next generation of farmers, which is why I co-sponsored H.R. 1015 which designated February 17 - February 24, 2024 as National FFA Week.

This resolution also celebrates the 10th anniversary of the “Give the Gift of Blue” program, which has donated over 17,000 of the FFA’s iconic blue jackets to FFA members in need. The jackets symbolize their commitment to something greater and inspires them to learn, grow, and serve their communities. 

Every step we can take to make entry to agriculture easier and more appealing for younger Americans means more of them will go into farming in the future. The work the FFA does to build interest in agriculture in our next generation is critical, so this National FFA Week, let’s all look to our future farmers and thank them for the work they do to pave the way for the next generation. 

As millions of Americans honor their fallen loved ones, many do not have the chance to do so in person. For decades families of servicemembers buried at American military cemeteries overseas have used the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) to place flowers on their graves. However, a recent decision was made by the ABMC to end that service. 

For those with fallen heroes buried in any of the 26 American military cemeteries in 17 foreign countries, I am fighting to ensure access and accountability in this process.

That is why I joined my colleagues in introducing the Flowers for Fallen Heroes Act to formally authorize the ABMC flower ordering program and create a user-friendly system to allow customers a cost-effective and convenient means to lay flowers for their loved ones. 

While I continue to fight in Congress for veterans’ issues like reforming the VA’s electronic health record system, it is important we maintain the most basic of services for those we have lost overseas. 

Honoring the Life of Lance Corporal Donovan Davis

It saddens me to announce the passing of a brave young Marine from Zillah, Washington—Donovan Davis.

Donovan was tragically killed on February 6 when his CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter crashed during a night mission in California. Donovan was 21 years old, and had just been promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal. 

He was the crew chief of the helicopter, and the youngest among the 5 Marines who sadly perished in the crash. Lance Corporal Davis was a third generation military aviator, his father and grandfather having served before him.

Donovan's decorations included the Global War On Terrorism Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, and the Marine Aircrew Badge.

My prayers are with the families of these men, and I encourage you to give thanks for all that our servicemembers to protect the freedom and liberty we enjoy.