[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 112 (Wednesday, July 12, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1413]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                  TRIBUTE TO BRIG. GEN. MICHAEL R. LEE

                                 ______


                         HON. GERALD D. KLECZKA

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 11, 1995
  Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Brig. Gen. 
Michael R. Lee, the departing commander of the 440th Airlift Wing at 
General Mitchell International Airport. General Lee has guided this Air 
Reserve Station superbly over the years. It is with fond memories and 
deep gratitude that we wish him well on his new assignment at Dobbins 
Air Force Base in Georgia.
  As we all know, reassignments, transfers, and reorganizations are a 
fact of life in the military. Still, I find it no easier to have to say 
good-bye to a gentleman who is the epitomy of a dedicated, talented, 
and revered career Air Force officer.
  General Lee is an accomplished military man and a master navigator 
logging more than 5,500 flying hours. He is also a goodwill ambassador 
for the Air Force and the U.S. Armed Forces at large.
  I truly believe that an individual's character and inner strength are 
best measured during times of adversity and uncertainty. The last few 
months were such a time for the general and the 440th, and both fared 
exceptionally.
  Under General Lee's leadership, the 440th successfully survived its 
placement on the Base Closure and Realignment Commission's list of C-
130 bases under examination for possible realignment or closure. In 
true form, General Lee rallied his staff, pulled together the 440th's 
Community Council and each and every civilian, and presented the best 
possible case to the Commission.
  Just a few weeks ago the Commission echoed the widely held view that 
the 440th deserves its reputation as the best of the best. Based on all 
the 440th's merits and value to our national defense, and in large part 
due to the general's round-the-clock efforts, the base will remain 
open.
  Mr. Speaker, the 440th and Wisconsin's loss will truly be Georgia's 
gain. I join the men and women of the 440th Tactical Airlift Wing in 
wishing General Lee continued success in his new assignment.


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