[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 21, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E19]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE BRAVE SOLDIERS OF THE NEW YORK AIR NATIONAL GUARD'S 106TH 
                            AIR RESCUE WING

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. TIMOTHY H. BISHOP

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 21, 2004

  Mr. BISHOP of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my deep 
admiration and respect for the brave soldiers of the New York Air 
National Guard's 106th Air Rescue Wing who recently returned home from 
service in Operation Enduring Freedom. The brave men and women of the 
106th Air Rescue Wing are among the most talented and best-trained 
rescue specialists in the world.
  Of course, while I am pleased these heroes are out of the line of 
fire, the 106th is never out of harm's way. Most Americans first heard 
about the 106th because of a heroic rescue effort, which was recounted 
in the book and movie ``The Perfect Storm.'' They deserve our deepest 
gratitude for putting themselves on the front lines in war and peace.
  The 106th Air Rescue Wing's extraordinary service in Iraq is the 
latest chapter in the storied history of this unit. During its time 
overseas, the unit was involved in numerous rescues, including from the 
October 12, 2003 bombing of the Baghdad Hotel and after a Chinook 
helicopter went down on November 2, 2003, a deplorable terrorist act 
that took the lives of 16 American soldiers. After this incident, 
members of the 106th Rescue Wing recovered two soldiers from the downed 
helicopter and brought them to safety where they received treatment. 
There is no more noble service than risking one's own life to save the 
life of a fellow soldier.
  Mr. Speaker, as the representative of Gabreski Airport in 
Westhampton, Long Island, home of the 106th Air Rescue Wing, I could 
not be more proud of our soldiers returning home. I am truly privileged 
to represent this distinguished unit, which is not only a blessing to 
the people of Long Island, but to all Americans who benefit from its 
service.

                          ____________________