[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 27 (Tuesday, March 12, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E324]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 317TH AIRLIFT GROUP STATIONED AT DYESS AIR FORCE BASE

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                        HON. CHARLES W. STENHOLM

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 12, 2002

  Mr. STENHOLM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 317th 
Airlift Group as they return to Dyess Air Force Base from a three-month 
deployment in Southwest Asia. These folks have been supporting the war 
effort in Afghanistan and today they return to home to the cheers and 
support of their families, friends and the entire city of Abilene, 
Texas.
  I want to add my voice to this chorus of support for these brave 
folks who have spent the last three months working in incredibly 
challenging physical conditions, flying and supporting missions, in our 
nation's assault on terrorism. They saw firsthand how the battle in 
Afghanistan has cost precious American lives even as they put 
themselves in harm's way.
  Today, I join with a grateful nation to express not only thanks to 
members of the 317th Airlift Group and all those who wear Air Force 
Blue, but also to the wives and husbands and sons and daughters and 
family members who share in the sacrifices they make. Our ability as a 
nation to deploy throughout the world at a moment's notice is possible 
only because there are strong families and communities to provide 
support.
  Since the terrorist attacks on our nation on September 11, 2001, we 
have called on folks to make great sacrifices, and our nation's 
military has answered that call with swift, forceful action. Like all 
Americans, I have the highest level of confidence in those folks who 
volunteer to serve in defense of our nation. They have our confidence 
and respect because they have earned it. They earn it every day as they 
face hardship and danger. They serve because they believe in America, 
and America believes in them.

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