[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 83 (Thursday, June 14, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1113]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 DESIGNATION OF BANGOR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AS A STATE ASCE HISTORIC 
                                LANDMARK

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. JOHN ELIAS BALDACCI

                                of maine

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 14, 2001

  Mr. BALDACCI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the designation 
of Bangor International Airport (BIA) as a State American Society of 
Civil Engineers (ASCE) Historic Landmark. I have been proud to support 
this designation which I believe is well deserved.
  For nearly three-quarters of a century, BIA has served as an 
important transportation hub for northern and eastern Maine. A 
municipal airstrip began in 1927, and operations have grown ever since. 
Within 4 years, the original Pan American Airways was flying from BIA. 
Today, a new Pan Am is operating from BIA, continuing a long tradition 
of excellent service.
  The airport has had its share of celebrity, as well. Amelia Earhart 
flew from BIA in 1933, and piloted the inaugural flights for the 
Boston-Maine Airways Service.
  During World War II, the federal government took over the airport, 
turning BIA into Dow Air Force Base. The Base played a crucial role in 
US military operations until it was decommissioned in 1964, and was 
known as the ``Gateway to Europe.'' BIA continues to be an important 
part of our military's mission, serving as the home of the 101st 
Refueling Wing of the Air National Guard--better known as the 
``Maniacs.'' Today, thanks to the efforts of the City of Bangor, the 
airport is a commercial success. Just this week we learned of a major 
expansion of service that will keep business and leisure travelers 
moving smoothly into and out of Maine. As a member of the House 
Transportation Committee's Subcommittee on Aviation and a native of 
Bangor, I take special interest and pride in BIA's many successes--
past, present and future.
  I want to congratulate everyone who played a role in securing the 
ASCE Historic Landmark designation for Bangor International Airport, I 
am pleased that this facility's long and significant history is being 
honored.

                          ____________________