[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 3 (Thursday, January 27, 1994)]
[House]
[Page H]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: January 27, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                   TRIBUTE TO COL. JAMES B. TAPP, JR.

  Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Col. James 
Tapp, Jr., as he retires after more than 25 years of distinguished 
service in the U.S. Air Force.
  Colonel Tapp is retiring from his position as associate director, 
legislative liaison at the Pentagon. In addition to this position, he 
also served as chief, air operations division and chief, Senate liaison 
office. In these critical positions, Colonel Tapp's professionalism, 
diplomacy, and insight were essential to the flawless planning and 
execution of hundreds of congressional worldwide factfinding travels. 
Additionally, his knowledge of the budget cycle and exceptional 
communicative skill were essential ingredients in explaining key Air 
Force programs to Members of the U.S. Senate and House of 
Representatives.
  Colonel Tapp began his Air Force career in 1968, after graduating 
from Virginia Tech, as a civil engineer with the 306th Bomb Wing, McCoy 
AFB, FL. Three years later he entered undergraduate pilot training and 
began the flying portion of his career as a C-141 pilot with the 41st 
Military Airlift Squadron, Charleston AFB, SC. He later focused on 
honing his instructor skills at Squadron Officer School and refining 
his leadership talents by attending Air Command and Staff College at 
Maxwell AFB, AL. Then, in 1981, he returned to Charleston where his 
assignment culminated as commander, 76th Military Airlift Squadron.
  His assignment to the Pentagon began in 1988 and since that time he 
has interfaced with hundreds of Members, lending his expertise in Air 
Force matters and handling a myriad of unique situations. Colonel Tapp 
epitomizes the highest standards of professional conduct, leadership, 
diplomacy, meticulous tact, and desire for perfection.
  Mr. President, I join with my colleagues who have directly benefited 
from the superb support Colonel Tapp has provided the Congress and 
executive branch, in congratulating him for a job extremely well done, 
and wishing he and his lovely wife, Rosemary, the very best in the 
future. He will be a success in any pursuit he may endeavor to 
undertake. Colonel Tapp is a professional among professionals and has 
brought great credit upon himself and the U.S. Air Force.
  I have enjoyed my relationship with him and the chance to know a fine 
officer and a special friend.

                          ____________________