[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 85 (Thursday, June 25, 1998)]
[House]
[Page H5392]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BERLIN AIRLIFT

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 50th 
anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, one of the most defining events in 
world history.
  Tomorrow marks the 50th anniversary of the first American flight 
carrying food and supplies to the communist encircled City of Berlin. 
Two days earlier, the Soviet Union announced its intention to 
completely prohibit transportation in and out of the western sectors of 
Berlin.
  Throughout the course of the mission, approximately 600 flights a day 
brought provisions to a city isolated from the world by the Soviet 
military. By its conclusion, more than a year later, 2.3 million tons 
of food and coal for fuel had been delivered to Berlin. ``Operation 
Vittles,'' as it was called, consisted of nearly 278,000 flights by 
American, British, and French aircraft. The Soviets eventually 
submitted to American determination and reopened ground routes into 
Berlin.
  The historical significance of the airlift is that it signaled the 
United States' resolve to reject communist oppression. In addition, the 
Berlin Airlift sent a clear message to the world that the United States 
would not abandon an ally in its time of need.
  As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, we are 
reminded that as Americans we must stand up for democracy when it is 
challenged.
  Time and time again, history has taught us that we defend freedom 
when it is threatened. However, our responsibility carries with it a 
tremendous price, both in monetary terms and in human life. The Berlin 
Airlift costs an estimated $200 million, and even more important, it 
took the lives of 79 individuals, including 31 American servicemen.
  Although the airlift occurred between 1948 and 1949, its legacy lives 
today in the hearts of people around the world. The courage displayed 
by its participants still serves as a shining example of freedom's 
triumph over tyranny. Our refusal to submit to Soviet aggression 50 
years ago led the groundwork for lifting the Iron Curtain of communist 
oppression and tearing down the Berlin Wall.
  Mr. Speaker, let us perpetuate the legacy of the Berlin Airlift. 
Congress must honor those whose tremendous acts of courage during the 
airlift promoted freedom and democracy. As Americans, we must continue 
to ensure that these principles are cherished throughout the world.

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