[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 46 (Tuesday, March 17, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E686]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING FLYING CROSS RECIPIENT ROBERT P. CHRISTIANSEN OF HOMOSASSA, 
                                FLORIDA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 17, 2009

  Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
honor an American hero and Distinguished Flying Cross recipient, Major 
Robert P. Christiansen of Homosassa, Florida. His extraordinary 
achievement while participating in aerial combat flight during an 
engagement in Southeast Asia in 1968 and his service to our Nation will 
forever be remembered by this Congress. Mr. Christiansen bravely 
encountered dangerous and life-threatening events during his time in 
the Air Force.
  Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Mr. Christiansen graduated from 
West Point in 1957. He bravely served our country as a fighter pilot 
for the next 15 years, including service in Southeast Asia. On May 1, 
1968, Mr. Christiansen bravely participated in an aerial combat 
mission.
  On that night, Mr. Christiansen and his navigator bombardier 
dutifully responded to an urgent call to attack a convoy of hostile 
vehicles in a heavily defended and strategically important area. Mr. 
Christiansen made three attacks and was credited with destroying five 
vehicles and causing two significant secondary explosions. The 
professional skill and personal devotion displayed by Mr. Christiansen 
reflect his immense commitment and sacrifice.
  Madam Speaker, soldiers like Robert P. Christiansen should be 
recognized for their service to our Nation and for their commitment and 
sacrifices in battle. I am honored to congratulate Mr. Christiansen on 
his long overdue Flying Cross award. His family, friends and loved ones 
should know that we truly consider him one of America's heroes.

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