[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 14 (Thursday, February 10, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E217-E218]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                     HON. RANDY ``DUKE'' CUNNINGHAM

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 9, 2005

  Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, l want to join my colleagues in support 
of H. Con. Res. 26, which recognizes the significant contributions of 
the Tuskegee Airmen to our national security and honors their service 
to a grateful Nation.
  As an aviator myself, I have had the honor each year to join some of 
the Nation's most distinguished military aviators at an event known as 
``The Gathering of the Eagles.'' At those events, I have met many of 
the Tuskegee Airmen, and can personally attest to

[[Page E218]]

their character. These men are outstanding military heroes who gave so 
much to this Nation and set such an outstanding example for future 
generations of aviators. Several of them are in the pictures produced 
there each year hanging in my office.
  These African American men, determined to do their part to serve 
their Nation during World War II, enlisted to serve their Nation at a 
time when segregation limited opportunities. But they were given a 
chance to excel in the military. During World War II, they completed 
15,500 missions, destroyed over 260 enemy aircraft, sank one enemy 
destroyer, and demolished numerous enemy installations. They destroyed 
more than 100 German aircraft while building an unprecedented record of 
flying with more than 200 bomber escort missions--all without the loss 
of a bomber. That is a huge feat.
  Every bit as important, they set an example for millions of Americans 
of every color, encouraging others to pursue careers in air and space 
technology. It is time this Nation give this distinguished group of 
aviators the credit and honor they deserve. I urge my colleagues to 
support this resolution recognizing these fine men and their 
achievements.

                          ____________________