[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 87 (Tuesday, June 18, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E903]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    PRESIDENT GERALD R. FORD TRIBUTE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SCOTT R. TIPTON

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 18, 2013

  Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize President Gerald 
R. Ford's humanitarian involvement in Operation Babylift.
   On April 5th, 1975, President Ford launched Operation Babylift, an 
initiative that rescued over 3,000 orphans from war-torn Vietnam. 
Throughout the Vietnam War, these children witnessed the destruction of 
their villages and saw their families torn apart. Thanks to the efforts 
of President Ford, those children were given the opportunity for a 
bright future.
   This year marks what would have been President Ford's 100th 
birthday. During his presidency Ford faced many challenges under 
extraordinary circumstances, and through them worked tirelessly on 
behalf of the American people with the hope of peace in his heart.
   During a time of great uncertainty and fear, President Ford restored 
faith in humanity as he made the call to commence Operation Babylift, 
sending 30 cargo aircrafts to transport over 3,000 Vietnamese orphans 
out of war-torn Vietnam.
   Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize President Gerald R. Ford 
and his efforts that saved the lives of thousands of children.

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