[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 169 (Thursday, November 20, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2356-E2357]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO DON SCHNEIDER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 19, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I pay tribute 
to Retired Lieutenant Colonel Don Schneider from Grand Junction, 
Colorado. Don has dedicated his life to the betterment of his family, 
country and community, and I am proud to call his contributions to the 
attention of this body of Congress here today.
   Don moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado in 1959. Between 1959 and 
1964, he accomplished a great deal. He attended the Air Force Academy, 
completed Airborne Jump School, Officer Training School, and earned a 
degree from the University of Denver, eventually working with Martin-
Marietta on the Titan II missile program. In addition, Don met and 
married his wife Judy and had three wonderful children during this 
period.
   After his training, Don was transferred to Tennessee, where he 
served as a navigator and instructor at Stewart Air Force Base. While 
stationed in Tennessee, Don acquired 2000 hours of flying time on 
deployments worldwide. Between 1970 and 1971, Don flew 180 combat 
missions in the Vietnam conflict. In a time of war, Don's patriotism 
and valor shone through, proving him a true hero. At war's end, Don's 
honorable service had earned him numerous decorations, including the 
Distinguished Flying Cross and the Meritorious Service Medal.
   Following the war, Don was stationed in Myrtle Beach, where he was a 
pilot, safety officer, and instructor who trained a number of National 
Guard units, including the Colorado Air Squadron stationed at 
Colorado's Buckley Air Force Base. Don completed his service to the 
United States Air Force in 1985. After entering the private sector for 
some time, Don and his family moved to Grand Junction in 1998. In Grand 
Junction, Don has continued his service to his country. He currently 
serves as the President of the Western Colorado Chapter of Military 
Officers, and is an active member of the Order of the Dandelions, the 
Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association and the Aircraft Owners and 
Pilots Association.

[[Page E2357]]

   Mr. Speaker, I am proud to pay tribute to Don Schneider's courageous 
service before this body of Congress and this nation. His selfless 
desire to protect the freedom of all Americans is a reflection of his 
unwavering love for our country and his continued service to his 
community is further illustration of a lifetime of devotion to our 
nation. Thank you, Don, for your service.

                          ____________________