[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 153 (Wednesday, October 30, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1612]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF SERGEANT WALTER CRENSHAW, THE OLDEST LIVING 
                            TUSKEGEE AIRMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 30, 2013

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I salute and congratulate Sergeant Walter 
Crenshaw, a fellow veteran, on reaching this milestone celebrating his 
104th birthday. As the oldest living Tuskegee Airman, he has lived a 
truly inspiring life and for that I commend him.
  From Mr. Crenshaw's induction into the United States Army Air Corps 
in October 1942 where he ultimately attained the rank of Sergeant, 
until now, he has been an example of what hard-work and devotion can 
do. I am particularly thankful for his dedication to our country in the 
face of strife racism, paving the way for myself and fellow African-
American and minority servicemen. Mr. Crenshaw and the Tuskegee Airmen 
persevered through racial, military, and political barriers to become 
the first African American military aviators in the United States Armed 
Forces, showing that there is strength in unity and support.
  A leader is one who knows the way, follows that path, and shows 
others the course to take. Walter Crenshaw's life is a demonstration of 
true leadership, and as he celebrates 104 years of life may he take 
pride in the contributions he has made through his service.

                          ____________________