[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 90 (Tuesday, June 3, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1127]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       THE 52ND REUNION OF THE U.S. AIR FORCE'S 4080TH STRATEGIC 
                          RECONNAISSANCE WING

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHELE BACHMANN

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 3, 2008

  Mrs. BACHMANN. Madam Speaker, recently in Del Rio, Texas, the 
veterans of the U.S. Air Force's 4080th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing 
held their 52nd and final reunion.
  I am proud to say that many of Minnesota's finest have served in this 
distinguished outfit, including the man who shared with me their 
incredible achievements, Minnesota native Jim Wemple, Airmen 2nd Class, 
who joined the unit the year it was formed, 1956.
  The 4080th is one of the most distinguished units in the great 
history of the American armed services. In fact, it holds the distinct 
honor of being the highest decorated unit in the Air Force during peace 
time. The unit has received a Presidential citation, and its members 
have been awarded the highest honors afforded by the military, 
including the Silver Star and the Medal of Honor.
  With skill and courage, the 4080th flew critical recon missions time 
and again, including many daring missions during the Cold War. Their 
efforts and sacrifices averted conflicts, saved lives and secured 
peace.
  The brave patriots who served in this unit have played a pivotal role 
in many of the defining events of the 20th Century. With courage and 
dignity, they put their lives on the line to defend our flag and our 
freedoms and these men truly deserve our undying gratitude.
  And so it is my honor to recognize and pay tribute to the all the men 
of the 4080th Recon Wing. We must always hold the American serviceman 
in our hearts, for, as General MacArthur said, they hold America's 
destiny in their hands.

                          ____________________