[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 143 (Wednesday, September 10, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S8270]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO COLONEL ERIC J. WILBUR

  Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, it is my honor to pay tribute today to 
COL Eric J. Wilbur, Vice Commander of the 37th Training Wing at 
Lockland Air Force Base. On February 1, 2009, Colonel Wilbur will 
retire after a distinguished 20-year military career in which he has 
honorably and faithfully served his country. Among many other awards, 
Colonel Wilbur has been decorated with the Legion of Merit, the Bronze 
Star, and the Defense Meritorious Service Award.
  I have always considered it a privilege to highlight the 
distinguished service of those men and women serving in the military, 
especially when they have Iowa ties. As an Iowa native and graduate of 
Iowa State University, I am confident that Colonel Wilbur retires not 
only with the esteem and admiration of his peers, subordinates, and 
country but also his hometown of West Union, IA, and all Iowans.
  Through his distinguished career, Colonel Wilbur has been a 
noteworthy example of the definition of loyalty, dedication, and 
sacrifice. Today I would like to extend my personal thanks to Colonel 
Wilbur for faithfully serving his country with excellence, as well as 
my congratulations on his much deserved retirement. Men and women such 
as Colonel Wilbur deserve to be recognized for their service and 
patriotism.

                          ____________________