[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 75 (Saturday, May 26, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E985]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 A TRIBUTE TO ROBBINS AIR FORCE TANKERS

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                          HON. SAXBY CHAMBLISS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 25, 2001

  Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, today, I recognize the 99th Air Refueling 
Squadron from Warner Robbins, Georgia. They were recently named as the 
military's top tanker group for the third consecutive year.
  The ``Ramrods,'' part of the 19th Air Refueling group, are the only 
unit in the Air Force's 50 year history to win the General Carl A. 
Spatz Trophy for three consecutive years. Since 1975, this trophy has 
recognized the best air refueling squadron within the Air Force.
  This refueling group has worked hard to earn this prestigious, 
national award. They were one of the most needed tanker groups in 2000. 
The ``Ramrods'' flew air refueling missions on every major deployment 
last year. Along with these deployment missions they had to carry out 
their normal exercises and long term troop commitments to areas such as 
the middle east.
  The Warner Robbins 99th squadron was called upon to fly top-ranking 
Air Force and civilian officials around the globe, and they provided 
refueling support to military units in the Middle East after last 
falls's horrible terrorist attack on the USS Cole. The National Defense 
University selected the squadron to represent the Air Force on four 
high visibility missions around the world.
  It is easy to see that these missions are very important in the 
military strength that this nation enjoys. This group is to be 
congratulated for their hard work, skill, and accomplishments in the 
Air Force.

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