[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 45 (Wednesday, March 10, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E225-E226]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             McENTIRE JOINT NATIONAL GUARD BASE IS CRUCIAL

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOE WILSON

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 10, 2021

  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on Friday I visited 
dedicated men and women of the South Carolina National Guard serving at 
McEntire Joint National Guard Base. McEntire serves critical state and 
national security missions, most recently spearheading the effort to 
quickly distribute Wuhan Virus vaccines. It is an excellent site for 
placement of F-35 aircraft.
  McEntire is home to the 169th Fighter Wing ``Swamp Foxes,'' some of 
the most capable pilots

[[Page E226]]

in the Air Force and a valuable strategic resource, led by COL Akshai 
Ghandi. I appreciated being hosted by Major General Van McCarty whose 
leadership has been critical during this pandemic along with Phil 
Hamby, Director of Governmental Affairs.
  I know firsthand of the patriotic service-members. As a grateful 31-
year Army Guard veteran myself, with three Guard sons who have served 
in Iraq, Egypt, and Afghanistan.
  In conclusion, God Bless our Troops, and we will never forget 
September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism. Our sympathy to the 
family of Sally Atwater, widow of the victorious political strategist, 
Lee Atwater.

                          ____________________