[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 125 (Monday, September 30, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1708]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO COL. AND MRS. DOUGLAS RAABERG

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. IKE SKELTON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 30, 2002

  Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, if has come to my attention that Claudia 
and Douglas Raaberg have received the 2002 Gen. and Mrs. Jerome F. 
O'Malley Award. The Raabergs have demonstrated a strong commitment and 
dedication to the United States Air Force.
  The Gen. and Mrs. Jerome F. O'Malley Award recognizes the wing 
commander and spouse whose contributions to the nation, Air Force and 
local community best exemplify the highest ideals and positive 
leadership of a military couple in a key Air Force position. The 
Raabergs received this award for their efforts while stationed at Vance 
Air Force Base, Oklahoma.
  As commander of the 71st Flying Training Wing, Col. Raaberg secured 
$11.5 million and 11 acres of land to build 230 new housing units, the 
first for the base in 60 years. His emphasis on dormitory improvements 
resulted in new furniture, carpet, microwaves and free Internet access 
for assigned airmen.
  Claudia oversaw the Vance Spouses Club ``compassion coalition,'' an 
initiative to invite spouse clubs across the Department of Defense to 
contribute to the assistance program for survivors of the September 11 
terrorist attacks. She was also an active participant in ``Christmas in 
April,'' mustering volunteers and $20,000 to rebuild and repair 10 
homes in a day for local disabled and elderly residents.
  Mr. Speaker, Claudia and Douglas Raaberg have distinguished 
themselves as community leaders in the United States Air Force. Their 
service to our nation is invaluable and I am sure that my colleagues 
will join me in wishing the Raaberg family all the best.

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