[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 77 (Tuesday, May 19, 2009)]
[House]
[Page H5772]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BERLIN AIRLIFT

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Fortenberry) is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. FORTENBERRY. Mr. Speaker, 60 years ago, the United States 
embarked on a crucial operation to sustain and defend a vulnerable 
entrapped people. The Berlin Airlift was a colossal strategic mission 
that encouraged strength and fortitude in those held captive in Berlin. 
Today, we honor those who designed and participated in this feat.
  These brave veterans struck the first major blow in the new Cold War, 
forcing Stalin to lift the blockade that impoverished Germany's 
capitol, and thwarting the Iron Curtain's fall over the Western 
strongholds. The efforts of these airmen embody the highest virtues of 
American air defense, as they fused tactical brilliance, along with 
innovation and with goodness in heart, in what is seen as one of the 
greatest American humanitarian efforts of all time.
  Our veterans provided food, coal, and medical supplies to the 
besieged citizens of West Berlin each day, living up to the spirit of 
the Greatest Generation. They led a seminal goodwill offensive that 
succeeded in alleviating the suffering inflicted by Stalin's regime 
that threatened the peace and prosperity of all those in Berlin, East 
Germany, as well as throughout the world.
  Some creative and generous pilots even found a heartwarming way to 
connect with the children of Berlin during those airlifts. As they 
carpeted the streets of Berlin with chocolates and candy, they drew the 
hearts and minds of many children to goodness and liberty rather than 
the pervasive Communist propaganda that sought to turn them against the 
West.
  The goodwill of this so-called ``Operation Little Vittles'' has 
carried forward to the streets of Baghdad today, where many of our 
soldiers relish opportunities to brighten the lives of Iraqi children 
as well.
  As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, let us 
remember the veterans who exemplified our highest ideals of brilliance 
and innovation in air defense, and whose integrity and dedication to 
liberty have inspired so many vulnerable people throughout the world. 
Their example renews our faith in the power of freedom and goodness to 
prevail over tyranny.
  Mr. Speaker, as the memories of World War II and the Berlin blockade 
fade with the passing years, I believe it is even more important to 
commemorate the spirit of kindness that led our veterans to bring hope 
and to bring joy to the weary and beleaguered city of Berlin.
  Mr. Speaker, a congressional resolution has been introduced to honor 
their legacy. I'm grateful for this opportunity to celebrate this noble 
endeavor, and I ask my colleagues to please join me in remembering and 
thanking those who served 60 years ago in the Berlin Airlift.

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