[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 89 (Tuesday, June 21, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1149]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE DEDICATED SERVICE OF LIEUTENANT GENERAL DONALD C. 
                    WURSTER, UNITED STATES AIR FORCE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 21, 2011

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
service of Lieutenant General Donald C. Wurster upon his retirement 
from the United States Air Force.
  For over 38 years of service to our nation, Lieutenant General Donald 
Wurster lived the core values of Integrity First, Service before Self, 
and Excellence in All We Do. On June 24, 2011 General Wurster 
relinquishes command of Air Force Special Operations Command and leaves 
behind a hallmark of accomplishments generated through his leadership 
of some of America's finest men and women.
  Since his graduation from the United States Air Force Academy, he has 
been a part of some of the most dynamic changes in airpower's history. 
Along the way, General Wurster's vision and leadership helped usher in 
some of the most unique warfighting capabilities in the Air Force. From 
counter-insurgency leadership to building aviation programs that 
provided national power any time, any place, his legacy will remain one 
of steadfast dedication.
  As a tip-of-the-spear helicopter pilot, General Wurster amassed more 
than 4,000 flying hours, including assignments in both rescue and 
special operations. During his career, he commanded special operations 
units at the squadron, group, wing, joint task force, sub-unified 
command, and finally Air Force major command level where he led over 
16,000 personnel executing missions across the globe in support of 
national interests and objectives.
  Throughout his career, his wife Ronda has been there every step of 
the way. For over the three and a half decades, Ronda supported her 
husband, their growing family, and the fellow men and women who have 
chosen to wear the uniform as protectors of our nation's freedom. She 
has been there in times of celebration for graduations, promotions, and 
unit gatherings, as well as during the difficult times when someone has 
been lost or injured in the line of duty.
  Let it be recognized that in a time of persistent combat and other 
military operations, the United States Air Force had the right guy, in 
the right place, at the right time. Furthermore, his leadership and 
framework for success has helped build a strong following of talented 
warriors ready to protect our nation.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am honored to 
congratulate General Wurster on his retirement. My wife Vicki and I 
wish him and Ronda all the best for continued success.

                          ____________________