[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 58 (Wednesday, May 1, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E671]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    CONGRATULATING THE AIR FORCE SERGEANTS ASSOCIATION ON ITS 35TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______


                      HON. G.V. (SONNY) MONTGOMERY

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 30, 1996

  Mr. MONTGOMERY. Mr. Speaker, the Air Force Sergeants Association 
[AFSA] is celebrating a special event this month. On May 1, the AFSA 
turns 35. That is 35 years spent serving the needs of the active and 
retired members of the Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National 
Guard.
  Created in 1961, AFSA's mission was to provide the Air Force enlisted 
members a voice on the Hill. Today there number and members have grown. 
Currently there are 300 AFSA chapters and 160,000 members, but their 
mission remains the same. To speak to Congress on behalf of their 
members.
  Through the efforts of AFSA, Congress is kept informed on important 
issues to the active, reserve, and retired Air Force personnel. 
Programs such as pay raises, dental insurance, colas, mobilization 
insurance, and adequate housing for service members and their families 
are just a few examples of AFSA's success.
  Today educating Congress is just one way the AFSA works for its 
members. In 1983, the Airmen Memorial Foundation was established. 
through this fund, the AFSA has furthered their members educational 
goals by providing grants, scholarships, and awards. Having a 
longstanding tradition myself of wanting the best educated military 
possible, I applaud AFSA's efforts in this area.
  But the AFSA knows that higher education is not for everyone. Some of 
their members are more interested in starting a new career when their 
tour is up. To help in this area, the AFSA created the postmilitary 
employment program. Again providing for the needs of its members.
  As the AFSA begins its celebration, I would like to extend my 
congratulations and wish them another 35 years of success.

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