News from Rep. Bost

The Bost Bulletin

Dear Friend,

September 11th provided another solemn reminder of a day on which our nation was forever changed. On September 11, 2001, we witnessed the unimaginable as terrorists launched attacks on our soil, taking nearly 3,000 innocent lives. We honor the memory of those we lost and the bravery of the first responders who rushed toward danger in the face of an unspeakable tragedy.

Honoring the Heroes of Abbey Gate

Speaker Johnson led the House in honoring the 13 Americans who lost their lives due to the 2021 Abbey Gate bombing during the Biden-Harris administration’s Afghanistan withdrawal. The Congressional Gold Medal was presented to the families of Marine Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover, Marine Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, Marine Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, Marine Cpl. Hunter Lopez, Marine Cpl. Daegan W. Page, Marine Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez, Marine Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, Marine Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz, Marine Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum, Marine Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola, Marine Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui, Navy Petty Officer Third Class Maxton W. Soviak, and Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss. We owe these heroes a debt of gratitude that could never be repaid. History will not forget your names.

Understanding the Report on the Disastrous Biden-Harris Afghanistan Withdrawal

Last week, the House Foreign Affairs Committee released its 350-page report on the Biden-Harris withdrawal from Afghanistan. The investigation revealed that the Biden-Harris administration ignored the pleas of the Afghan government and the objections of our NATO allies, moving forward with a hasty withdrawal that destabilized the region and empowered terrorist groups like al Qaeda and ISIS. It put our national security at risk abroad and here at home. I’ve included the report so you can read it for yourself.

Countering Chinese Aggression

House Republicans stood up to China’s aggression in global affairs by passing a series of bills aimed at securing our supply chains, protecting American technology, and defending human rights. From holding China accountable for its dominance in critical industries to pushing back its oppressive actions in Hong Kong, the legislation we passed last week are vital steps forward in restoring American strength and keeping our nation safe.

Talking Firefighter Technology with QWake

It was great to meet with Sam Cossman from QWake Fire Technologies. Their cutting edge, AI-powered vision and communication system is a game changer for our firefighters, helping them save lives in low-visibility conditions. I’m proud to support this technology through the Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill, ensuring local fire departments have access to tools that keep our first responders safe and effective. As one of the only former professional firefighters in Congress, I’m excited to see innovative technology helping our first responders on the front lines.

Discussing Veteran Healthcare with the VFW

I met with Doug Jameson and the National VFW Legislative Committee to discuss the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvements Act. This bill, which I’ve championed as chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, expands economic opportunity for our veterans and increases the quality of their care. I’ll keep fighting to make sure our veterans get the support they deserve.

Celebrating the Retirement of Chaplain Dan Lovin

I was honored to help celebrate the incredibly important career of Chaplain Dan Lovin of Logan Street Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon. I issued comments formally immortalizing his impressive legacy in the official record of the House for generations to come. Congratulations on your retirement, Dan, and thank you very much for all of your contributions to your community and law enforcement.

Welcoming the Guenther Family to Washington

I was happy to welcome the Guenther Family from St. Clair County to Washington, D.C. last week. Fred, a student at St. Clare Catholic School in O’Fallon, sat in for a few constituent meetings with me, while Jeff, Joan, Jean and Abram watched floor debate from the House and Senate galleries. Hope you had a great trip to your nation’s capital!

Greeting Another Southern Illinois Honor Flight

Last but not least, I wanted to share some photos from one of my greatest honors as a Member of Congress. Since I took office in 2015, I have worked to attend every Southern Illinois Honor Flight, which brings local veterans to D.C. to visit their memorials. Last week I had the opportunity to welcome another group of veterans from all corners of Southern Illinois and thank them for their selfless service. Truly humbling!

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- Mike