[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 34 (Wednesday, March 10, 2010)]
[House]
[Page H1226]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                 WOMEN AIR FORCE SERVICE PILOTS (WASPs)

  (Mr. MAFFEI asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. MAFFEI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the forerunner of 
today's women military pilots, the Women Airforce Service Pilots, or 
WASPs, who served during World War II.
  More than 1,100 women flew more than 60 million miles and provided 
crucial aid to our Nation in a time of war. From 1943 to 1944, they 
delivered aircraft from manufacturers in the United States to air bases 
throughout the country.
  Three women from my district--Virginia Meloney, Ann Elizabeth 
O'Connor, and Aleta Johnson--are being awarded the Congressional Gold 
Medal today in recognition of their service to our country as WASPs. 
Their fearlessness led the way for future women military pilots. It is 
long overdue that we recognize these incredible women. Our country 
thrives because of the bravery and dedication of our citizens like the 
WASPs.
  Ann O'Connor, a Syracuse resident since 1980, learned last year that 
this medal ceremony was going to happen. Her family told me it meant 
the world to her. Her daughter told me she would have loved to be here 
today, but Ann passed away in September of 2009. Her son and daughter 
and grandchildren are here and will attend the ceremony, and I know she 
is here today in spirit and through the eyes of her two lovely 
granddaughters.
  I congratulate all of the extraordinary WASPs who served our country. 
Thank you for your dedication and service.

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