[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 147 (Friday, November 16, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1781]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     2012 WINGS OVER HOUSTON, TEXAS

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 16, 2012

  Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today, I want to recognize a unique 
event in the state of Texas that attracts more than 85,000 people from 
Houston and around the globe. The Wings Over Houston Airshow showcases 
the best of American aerial military might in a thrilling display of 
everything from vintage World War II aircraft to the marvels of modern 
aviation.
  A non-profit event produced by a collaborative volunteer effort of 
the Gulf Coast Wing and West Houston Squadron of the Commemorative Air 
Force, this year's Wings Over Houston Airshow dazzled the crowds with 
several new additions, including the U.S. Air Force's newest fighter 
aircraft, the F-22 Raptor, the U.S. Marine Corp MV-22 Osprey 
demonstration and the Air National Guard Flash Fire Jet Truck. The 
biggest feature this year was the Navy's Blue Angels, which is the 
second oldest flying aerobatic team. They impressed bystanders with 
their daring and impressive routines, at one point even flying only 18 
inches from each other during their four-jet Diamond Formation.
  For 28 years, Wings Over Houston has benefited a variety of nonprofit 
organizations and charities. This year's air show benefitted the Wings 
Over Houston Airshow Scholarship Program, Aviation Career Education 
Academy, Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Westchase Rotary Club and the 
Commemorative Air Force aircraft restoration and flying historical 
programs.
  As a spectacular aerial show and an impressive charitable community 
effort, the Wings Over Houston Airshow inspires both charity and 
patriotism in Houstonians and all Americans. It's a significant part of 
Texas history, as the event conserves a little piece of our military's 
aviation history and ensures that it'll be around for years to come.
  And that's just the way it is.

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