[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 39 (Thursday, March 11, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E419]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO BEN ALEXANDER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 11, 1999

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I wanted to take this opportunity to 
recognize former state Senator Ben Alexander who, for the last four 
years, has provided strong leadership and a dynamic voice for Western 
Colorado in the Colorado General Assembly. In doing so, I would like to 
pay tribute to my friend for his distinguished service and wish him 
well in all of his future endeavors.
  Following his election to the state Senate in 1994, Senator Alexander 
rose through the rank and file with unprecedented speed serving as 
Vice-chairman of the Senate Finance Committee in his first year in the 
legislature. In just his third year, Senator Alexander was named 
Chairman of the powerful Senate Education Committee where he would play 
a leading role in shaping Colorado's education policy for the next two 
years. In addition to his duties as chairman, Senator Alexander also 
provided powerful leadership on the Senate's Finance and Business 
Affairs and Labor committees.
  In addition to his service in the Colorado legislature, Senator 
Alexander also served his country distinguishedly and with great valor 
as an F-111 pilot for the Air Force during the Vietnam War. Senator 
Alexander's remarkable bravery during his 69 air combat missions earned 
him the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal with three Oak Leaf 
Clusters as well as the respect and gratitude of those familiar with 
his extraordinary sacrifices.
  Senator Alexander's eagerness to serve the American people, both as a 
pilot and legislator, has won him the unwavering esteem and admiration 
of friends and colleagues alike. It is clear that Colorado is a better 
place because of his remarkable service.
  It is with this, Mr. Speaker, that I pay tribute to this true public 
servant and friend for his extraordinary efforts and wish him all the 
best in each of his future endeavors.

                          ____________________