[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 70 (Wednesday, May 16, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E814]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN HONOR OF THE ONE HUNDRED YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF MARINE CORPS AVIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOHN KLINE

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 16, 2012

  Mr. KLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May 2012 as the one 
hundred year anniversary of United States Marine Corps Aviation. The 
Marine Corps stands as a symbol of America's strength and honor, and 
its history serves as a reminder of the commitment and sacrifice so 
many Americans have made in defense of this nation.
  What began in 1912 when Marine Corps 1st Lt Alfred A. Cunningham 
reported for flight training has extended through the ongoing 
operations around the world. A program that started with less than 40 
men now consists of hundreds of skilled pilots, expert engineers, and 
experienced ground crews. In support of their brothers and sisters on 
the ground, they have flown over the hedgerows of Europe, the jungles 
of East Asia, the deserts of the Middle East, and every ocean in 
between. From transportation of the President, to air-to-ground fire 
support, to medical evacuation on the battlefield, the capabilities of 
Marine Corps Aviation are second to none.
  In honor of Marine Aviators past and present, I have introduced H.R. 
1621, legislation that pays tribute to Marine Corps Aviation with a 
commemorative coin. These coins will serve as a tribute to the 
capabilities pioneered by our earliest Marine aviators, and refined 
over the years to make the Marine Corps a force capable of protecting 
our nation ``in any clime and place.'' As a helicopter pilot and 25-
year Marine veteran, I am proud to have borne the title--Marine 
Aviator--and stand here today to honor one hundred years of Marine 
Corps Aviation. Semper Fidelis.

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