Pfluger demands briefing on possible CCP spy balloon surveillance of Homeland Equities
Tuesday, August Pfluger (RTX), Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Law Enforcement, and Intelligence and Homeland Security Chairman Mark E. Green, MD (R-TN) led the Subcommittee members in calling for a briefing from NORAD and DHS on the possible compromising of homeland equities by the Chinese surveillance balloon that infiltrated U.S. airspace for several days in early February and was capable of conducting intelligence collection operations.
In a letter to NORAD Commander General Glen D. VanHerck and DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the Members wrote, “North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD)’s primary mission is to conduct airspace warning operations, airspace control, and maritime warning in the defense of North America. As we learned on that fateful day in September 2001, airspace control and defense is a critical pillar in securing our nation against foreign threats. Since the Committee’s founding in 2005, it has worked tirelessly to identify and deter homeland threats, secure our borders, and provide oversight over the Department of Homeland Security.”
The Members continued, “Given the pertinent homeland equities involved in the Chinese surveillance balloon incident, it is unacceptable that we learned about these incidents through news reports. As a co-equal branch of the government, Congress deserves candid answers as to why these incursions have taken place and understand the steps the Executive Branch is taking to mitigate these threats in the future.”
Rep. Pfluger honors Draco Miller, cherished Brownwood public servant
U.S. Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) honored Draco Miller, a beloved member of the Brownwood, Texas community, in a speech on the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.
'I rise today in honor of Draco Miller, a cherished member of our Brownwood community, who sadly passed away on February 16, 2023.
'Draco was a father, husband, son, business owner, and public servant to the community of Brownwood-as a City Councilmember, mentor to our youth, and leader in numerous service-oriented boards and organizations.
'In 2022, Draco was named the 'Man of the Year' by the Brownwood Chamber of Commerce for his service to Brown-wood. In his own words, he said: 'This is my city and I love my city, there's no place like home!' 'Although he loved and cherished Brownwood, his family was the most important facet of his life. He dedicated his life to passing along his long-held values of faith, family, and a strong work ethic.
'He is remembered for his seemingly endless energy, optimism, and goodwill that carried him through decades of community involvement and community improvement projects.
'Although we mourn his loss, I know his legacy will live on through his wife Sonja, their children, many extended family members, and the entire Brownwood community.'