During last month’s district work period, I had the chance to travel to all 16 counties in NC-11 as well as the Qualla Boundary to meet with local leaders, small business owners, students, first responders, and public servants working for the betterment of our mountain communities. From manufacturing innovations to disaster response to workforce development, resilience and innovation are on display throughout our region.
Honoring WWII Veteran Cabe Monroe Lambert
I had the special privilege of recognizing the military service of Cabe Monroe Lambert, the last living WWII veteran of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, during a tribal military honor ceremony.
Mr. Lambert served with distinction in the Asiatic Pacific Theater, fighting to liberate island communities and stop the spread of tyranny. During the ceremony, I presented a Congressional Record entry recognizing his heroism and an American flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor. Mr. Lambert’s courage and sacrifice represent the very best of our nation, and his legacy will never be forgotten.
Introduction of the Emergency Rural Water Response Act
When Hurricane Helene hit Western North Carolina last year, we saw just how vulnerable rural communities are, especially when it comes to access to safe, reliable water. That’s why I introduced the Emergency Rural Water Response Act, a bipartisan bill to improve disaster response and strengthen water infrastructure in rural America.
This legislation cuts red tape and expands access to emergency water assistance, helping communities recover faster after natural disasters. It raises the population cap for eligible rural areas and broadens the definition of water infrastructure to include drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste facilities. Rural towns like those throughout Western North Carolina cannot be left behind when disaster strikes.
Military Service Academy Day in Waynesville
I recently hosted a Military Service Academy Day at Tuscola High School in Waynesville, where students from across Western North Carolina and their families had the chance to connect with representatives from all five U.S. service academies.
I was able to speak with students about the Congressional nominations process and their interest in serving our country in uniform. One of my most important responsibilities serving you in Congress is nominating future military leaders, and it is encouraging to see so many young people eager to answer the call to service.
Reminder: The deadline to apply for a service academy nomination is October 17, 2025. For details, please visit edwards.house.gov/academies or call our district office at 828-435-7310.
Career and Technical Education Spotlight at Mountain Heritage High School
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Mountain Heritage High School in Yancey County to visit with staff and learn more about their Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program. This program utilizes hands-on, trade-focused learning to equip students with real-world skills that prepare them for the workforce.
During my visit, I operated the school’s heavy machinery simulator. This tool offers students a safe, practical way to gain experience with complex equipment.
A project currently underway involves students building tiny homes for victims of Hurricane Helene who are still without permanent housing. It’s incredible to see young people applying their skills to rebuild our mountain communities.
Combatting Drug Smuggling Efforts in Central America
Last month, I joined a bipartisan delegation to Costa Rica and Panama. Both countries serve as key allies to the United States in Central America, a region that has become a strategic hotspot for Chinese espionage and a transit point for trafficking drugs into the United States.
My colleagues and I gained a greater understanding of the critical role of sustained American engagement abroad to safeguard our nation’s safety and security.
