[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 39 (Wednesday, March 17, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E402]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CONGRATULATING BARBARA POSEY ON HER RECEIPT OF THE CONGRESSIONAL GOLD 
                                 MEDAL

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ALLYSON Y. SCHWARTZ

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 17, 2010

  Ms. SCHWARTZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate 
Barbara Posey upon her receipt of the Congressional Gold Medal on March 
10, 2010 for her service with the Women's Air Force Service Pilots 
(WASPs).
  During World War II more than sixty years ago, the Women's Air Force 
Service Pilots worked under the direction of the United States Army Air 
Forces. These female civilian pilots flew fighter, bomber, transport, 
and training aircraft. The women of the WASPs pioneered the 
contribution of American women to the war effort. This commitment to 
their country was a catalyst for the reform that led to the integration 
of women pilots into the U.S. Armed Services.
  Mrs. Posey's dedication to flying began when she became captivated 
during her first trip on board a plane. The joy she felt in the air led 
her to pursue her dream to become a pilot. She traveled to Cortland, 
New York to earn her pilot's license and in January of 1944, joined the 
WASPs. At Avenger field in Sweetwater, Texas she completed the same 
training program required by male pilots. Barbara Posey was one of 
1,074 graduates of the program, and served as a test pilot at Shaw Army 
Airfield in Columbia, South Carolina, flying repaired planes that had 
been damaged in training operations. Although the director of the 
program had intended to militarize and commission the pilots, the 
improving military situation in 1944 reduced the need for additional 
pilots to be sent overseas.
  In January of 1945, Barbara married John Posey before he left for the 
Pacific theatre. She has been blessed with 8 children, 27 
grandchildren, and 22 great grandchildren. Before her retirement in 
1986, she continued her excitement for aviation by helping with a 
grassroots aviation effort in the Delaware Valley.
  Madam Speaker, once again I applaud Barbara Posey for her dedication, 
service and accomplishment. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to her 
on the momentous occasion of being awarded the Congressional Gold 
Medal, the highest civilian honor that Congress can award. I am honored 
to represent Barbara Posey in Congress.

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