Whereas the missions to the Moon by the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration are recognized around the globe as one of
the most outstanding achievements of humankind;
Whereas the United States is a leader in the International
Space Station, the first permanent human habitation and scientific laboratory
in space;
Whereas the first aircraft flight occurred in the United
States, and the United States operates the largest and safest aviation system
in the world;
Whereas the United States aerospace
industry is a powerful, reliable source of employment, innovation, and export
income, directly employing 831,000 people in the United States and supporting
more than 2,000,000 jobs in related fields;
Whereas space exploration is a source of inspiration that
captures the interest of young people;
Whereas aerospace education is an important component of
science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education and helps to
develop the science and technology workforce in the United States;
Whereas aerospace innovation has led to the
development of advanced meteorological forecasting, which has saved lives
around the world;
Whereas aerospace innovation has led to the development of
the Global Positioning System, which has strengthened national security and
increased economic productivity;
Whereas the aerospace industry assists and
protects members of the Armed Forces with military communications, unmanned
aerial systems, situational awareness, and satellite-guided ordinances;
and
Whereas September 16 is an appropriate date to observe
National Aerospace Day
: Now, therefore, be it
That the Congress—
(1)supports the goals
and ideals of National Aerospace Day
; and
(2)recognizes the contributions of the
aerospace industry to the history, economy, security, and educational system of
the United States.
Passed the House of
Representatives September 9, 2009.
Lorraine C. Miller,
Clerk.