[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 8, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E40]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                PAYING TRIBUTE TO: FRED LEE HOWARD, JR.

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                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, January 8, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I recognize 
the life and passing of Colonel Fred Howard of Grand Junction, 
Colorado. Colonel Howard served in the United States Air Force with the 
honor, courage and integrity that Americans have come to expect from 
our nation's military. Sadly, Fred passed away in November and, as his 
family mourns his loss, I would like to pay tribute to his lifetime of 
service before this body of Congress and this nation.
  The day after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Fred enlisted in the Army 
Air Corps as an Air Force Cadet and served in Europe during World War 
II. During the war, Fred served as a pilot, dropping paratroopers 
behind enemy lines. Fred received numerous medals of commendation for 
his efforts including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze 
Star. At the age of 22, Fred was promoted to the rank of Captain, where 
he continued to exhibit the leadership and courage that became his 
hallmark.
  After the war, Fred continued to contribute his leadership and 
expertise to the United States Air Force. During the Korean War, Fred 
was called once again into active duty. During the Vietnam War, he 
served as Director of Scheduling, where his responsibilities included 
the ``in-air'' refueling of all aircraft entering and exiting Vietnam. 
Upon retiring from the military, Fred served as an inspector for the 
Federal Aviation Administration, inspecting all domestic airlines in 
the Western United States.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with earnest respect that I recognize the life and 
passing of Colonel Fred Howard before this body of Congress and this 
nation. I extend my sincere condolences to his wife Mildred, son Fred, 
daughters Cheryl, Susan and Betty, and his many grandchildren. Colonel 
Howard served our country with great honor and distinction through a 
period of global uncertainty, and his remarkable courage serves as an 
inspiration to us all. His loss will be deeply felt and grateful nation 
will be forever in his debt.

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