[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 57 (Tuesday, April 10, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E426]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING LIEUTENANT COLONEL WILLIAM THOMAS SLYE, JR., USA, RET.

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. JOHN R. CARTER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 10, 2018

  Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 
Lieutenant Colonel William Thomas Slye, Jr., USA, Ret., who became an 
angel on February 28, 2018. LTC Slye's dedication to the United States 
Army, his nation, and his beloved family mark a man whose life was 
devoted to service to others.
  A native of Washington, D.C., LTC Slye enlisted in the Navy in 1953, 
where he served as an aircraft engine mechanic and found his passion 
for aviation. While the Navy could not offer him a venue to progress in 
his flying aspirations, he soon enlisted in the Army to pursue their 
flight training program.
  LTC Slye's skills did not go unnoticed and he was assigned to the 
Presidential Flight Detachment where he flew in the Presidential 
Helicopter unit for both Presidents Johnson and Nixon. His valiant 
efforts to keep our nation's leaders safe during tumultuous times were 
next to none and will never be forgotten. Following a 28-year Army 
career that included three tours in Vietnam, LTC Slye retired in 1981 
and settled in Belton, Texas.
  Along with being a skilled and decorated pilot, LTC Slye was a true 
family man. He married the love of his life, Wanda Rose Bridges, in 
1957 and went on to raise three beautiful children: Mike, Teri, and 
Sandie. He lived a full and inspirational life and was actively 
involved in his church, Knights of Columbus, and community.
  LTC Slye's dedication to both nation and family reflect the best 
values we hold dear in Central Texas. I salute his devotion to our 
highest ideals and join his loved ones in mourning his loss.

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