[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 21, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E389-E390]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                       TRIBUTE TO COL. AARON BANK

                                 ______


                            HON. RON PACKARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 21, 1995
  Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a military legend, 
92-year-old Col. Aaron Bank of San Clemente, CA. Heralded as the father 
of the Green Berets, Colonel Bank was instrumental in developing one of 
this country's most respected and renowned military divisions.
  As a member of a small group of senior officers in the Department of 
the Army, Colonel Bank recognized the need for an unconventional 
warfare organization within the framework of the U.S. Army. His unique 
military vision and experience earned him the role as commander of the 
first special forces group in the history of the U.S. Army.
  Colonel Bank translated the concept of a U.S. Army unconventional 
warfare organization into a practical reality. This elite fighting 
force represents some of the bravest, toughest, most resourceful, 
accomplished men in the world. Colonel Bank led the charge in 
organizing one of the most prestigious special force organizations in 
the world. He truly is the father of the Green Berets.
  His unique, daring military experiences span the globe and history: 
executing operations within the French resistance; the three-man 
guerrilla team air-dropped behind enemy lines to pave the way for the 
Allied invasion; an incredible secret plot to capture Hitler; his 
remarkable meeting with Ho Chi Minh in Indochina. Colonel Bank was 
instrumental in 
[[Page E390]] changing the course of history and making the world a 
safer place for people everywhere. He truly is an extraordinary leader.
  Mr. Speaker, I hope you and my colleagues will join me in recognizing 
the contributions and accomplishments of Col. Aaron Bank. I join 
friends and family who salute him.


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