[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 152 (Friday, December 12, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1813]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO COLONEL JAMES W. COOKSEY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE COFFMAN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 11, 2014

  Mr. COFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colonel James W. 
Cooksey of Aurora, Colorado, who was awarded a Congressional Gold Medal 
on December 10, 2014, for his service with the Civil Air Patrol during 
World War II.
  Colonel Cooksey began his decorated career in 1943 as a cadet in the 
Civil Air Patrol. During World War II, Colonel Cooksey served as a 
Civil Air Patrol Observer, conducting air search and rescue missions.
  Colonel Cooksey continued his service with both the Army and, 
subsequently, the Air Force. It was during his time in the Air Force 
that he served in Korea, Turkey, and Thailand. Additionally, he worked 
in the U.S. Air Force Academy Admissions Office and was an ROTC 
instructor at Michigan State University. After retiring from active 
duty, Colonel Cooksey taught history for 20 years at Aurora Hills 
Middle School. Throughout his career, he continued to serve in the 
Civil Air Patrol and became Vice Commander of the Rocky Mountain 
Region.
  In total, Colonel Cooksey dedicated 71 years to the Civil Air Patrol, 
and currently remains a dues paying member. It gives me great pride to 
represent such an exemplary American in Congress. Mr. Speaker, it is an 
honor to recognize Colonel James W. Cooksey for his service to his 
country.

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