[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 58 (Wednesday, May 1, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S4569]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         AFSA 35TH ANNIVERSARY

  Mr. DOLE. Mr. President, the Air Force Sergeants Association [AFSA] 
marks the 35th anniversary of its founding today. I commend this 
association for all of its efforts on behalf of the entire military 
community but, in particular, the enlisted component.
  In 1961, AFSA was founded as a non-profit association to represent 
the interests of Air Force enlisted members, who, at that time, had no 
voice to speak for them. Over the years, AFSA's membership has grown to 
160,000 with nearly 300 chapters around the world. Today, AFSA 
represents active and retire enlisted Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and 
Air National Guard members and their families.
  In my view, AFSA's reputation on Capitol Hill is better than ever, a 
broker of honest information--whether through testimony, visits, or 
correspondence--working hand-in-hand with elected officials. AFSA has 
worked hard over the years to keep Members of Congress focused on the 
quality of the lives of the active and retired enlisted men and women 
AFSA represents.
  AFSA was directly involved in championing improved pay and allowances 
for active duty members, dental and income insurance programs for 
reservists, the restoration of military cola equity, the end of source 
taxation, and the increase in the Social Security earnings limit.

  Last fall, AFSA generated massive grassroots support to clearly show 
where military personnel stood on the ``high-one'' retirement 
recalculation proposal.
  AFSA also provides awards, grants and scholarships through the Airmen 
Memorial Foundation, AMF, established in 1983. In addition, the AMF has 
a post-military employment program that aids Air Force members who are 
about to retire or separate.
  AFSA also believes in preserving the heritage and accomplishments of 
Air Force enlisted personnel. In 1986, AFSA founded the Airmen Memorial 
Museum in Suitland, MD, which is a comprehensive reference center for 
Air Force enlisted history.
  On the occasion of their 35th anniversary, I congratulate the Air 
Force Sergeants Association. I know that AFSA will continue to be an 
effective, strong, and dedicated voice for Air Force enlisted 
personnel, active, reserve, guard, retired members, and their families. 
I thank the association for its successful efforts and look forward to 
continuing to work with AFSA on matters of mutual concern.

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