[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 32 (Wednesday, February 29, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E282]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE CARSON WOMEN'S CLUB AND EDWARD TILLMON, A TUSKEGEE 
                             FIGHTER PILOT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. LAURA RICHARDSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 29, 2012

  Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 
Carson Women's Club, based in my congressional district, for the 
wonderful work it has accomplished over the years and their unwavering 
commitment to our local community.
  The Carson Women's Club was founded in 1968 as a non-profit, non-
political organization with a mission to serve as the official hostess 
of the City of Carson by supporting and promoting scholarships, and by 
engaging in community service activities focused on making Carson 
stronger.
  The Carson Women's Club plays an active part in local charity work. 
For example, each year on the 4th of July, Club members bring food to 
the on-duty firefighters at all stations in Carson. The Club also sends 
Thanksgiving baskets to 15 adopted Carson elementary schools and 
organizes a Christmas toy drive for the children at the El Nido Center.
  Mr. Speaker, the Carson Women's Club is a shining example of civic 
commitment, mutual trust, respect, and equal treatment without regard 
to race, sex, or ethnicity. The Club promotes mutual cooperation 
between individuals of different backgrounds through its diverse 
membership and informative community engagement events.
  This past weekend, I had the opportunity to attend a Carson Women's 
Club event in my district honoring members of the Los Angeles Chapter 
of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. The Tuskegee Airmen were the first black 
military airmen in the United States. This heroic group of 13,000 young 
African American men overcame institutionalized racism to become one of 
the most distinguished fighter units in World War II.
  At the meeting, we were fortunate enough to be graced with the 
presence of Mr. Edward Tillmon, a surviving Tuskegee Airman who 
reminded us of the remarkable accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen--
both in and out of combat.
  Through his experience growing up in a segregated America, Mr. 
Tillmon learned that hard work and perseverance are the key to 
overcoming obstacles that seem impenetrable. Mr. Tillmon expressed his 
appreciation for the challenges and opportunities that accompanied his 
time at war, and his firm beliefs that the successes of the Tuskegee 
Airmen would not have been possible if it were not for the strong sense 
of camaraderie between the members. They were truly a band of brothers.
  Edward Tillmon continues to serve his nation by preserving the 
Tuskegee Airmen legacy through his association with the Los Angeles 
based ``Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation'', which was established 
in 1979 to provide annual scholarships to exceptional young students in 
their quest for academic excellence.
  Mr. Speaker, Edward Tillmon served his nation with pride, even at a 
time when African Americans were treated like second-class citizens. 
The legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen is one of courage and heroism in the 
face of adversity and their story has provided many with the 
inspiration necessary to achieve their goals.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the contributions of the 
Carson Women's Club and Edward Tillmon and to thank them for their 
service to our community and our nation.

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