[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 125 (Friday, September 18, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1764]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


         75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CONNECTICUT AIR NATIONAL GUARD

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BARBARA B. KENNELLY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 18, 1998

  Mrs. KENNELLY of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
the 75th Anniversary of the Connecticut Air National Guard, the 
``Flying Yankees.''
  Founded on November 1, 1923, the Flying Yankees are the third oldest 
flying unit in the Air National Guard and have played important roles 
in many of America's military operations.
  During World War II, the unit served as part of the fabled ``Flying 
Tigers'' in the China/Burma/India theater of operations. The Flying 
Yankees also saw action in the Korean War as part of the Air Defense 
Command. From 1956 to 1971, the wing maintained 24 hour alert status. 
More recently, their overseas duties have included deployment to Italy 
and Bosnia to support NATO and United Nations forces in Operations Deny 
Flight and Decisive Endeavor.
  Presently designated as the 103rd Fighter Wing, the unit is stationed 
at Bradley Air National Guard Base in East Granby, Connecticut. Its 
primary mission today remains what it was 75 years ago: to provide 
conventional air-to-ground operations in support of U.S. and Allied 
ground forces. In addition to its military objectives, the wing also 
protects the state by preserving peace and public safety and assisting 
in disaster relief and search and rescue missions. It has also been an 
active participant in community activities which include sponsoring 
youth leadership and drug awareness programs.
  We in Connecticut are very proud of the Flying Yankees. So is the 
United States Air Force, which has recognized the unit's preparation 
and superb accomplishments by designating it as an Outstanding Air 
Force Unit.
  At home or overseas, the Flying Yankees of the Air National Guard 
have protected democracy, fought for freedom, guaranteed safety, and 
saved lives. So today, I urge my colleagues to join me not only 
celebrating the foundation of the ``Flying Yankees,'' but also honoring 
all those who have served their country and continue to serve in the 
103rd Fighter Wing.

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