[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 61 (Wednesday, April 6, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Page S2037]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 REMEMBERING COLONEL GAIL S. HALVORSEN

 Mr. LEE. Mr. President, Col. Gail S. Halvorsen is known as the 
``Candy Bomber'' because in 1948, Colonel Halvorsen brought not only 
much needed supplies to the besieged residents of Berlin, but he 
brought joy in the form of candy bars and bubble gum with miniature 
parachutes dropped from his airplane. This story of hope, light, and 
service is but a highlight in a life dedicated to serving others.
  While Colonel Halvorsen passed away earlier this year at the notable 
age of 101 years, the people of Utah hold him and his story close to 
our hearts. Recently, my staff and I were honored to join the Gail S. 
Halvorsen Foundation and other groups in Utah to help facilitate the 
donation of six tons of school and baby supplies along with 9,000 
letters from Utah schoolchildren to refugees fleeing Ukraine. While 
logistical challenges are characteristic of international donations of 
this type, the dedication of the Halvorsen Foundation and all involved 
ensured these vital supplies made it safely to those within a critical 
timeline.
  In a time of violence and evil, when our friends are under attack, 
Gail Halvorsen is again leading the way for American generosity, 
kindness, and compassion. The parallels between these two tragic 
situations are moving. The men and women of America's military 
volunteered in aiding in delivering supplies to those in need. The 
Halvorsen family and foundation were involved intimately in the effort. 
Colonel Halvorsen's daughter brought along chocolate bars to induct the 
Navy pilots as some of the next generation of ``candy bombers.'' These 
supplies landed at Tempelhof airbase where the legend began. Now, as 
then, the people of the United States are showing characteristic 
kindness. It is particularly moving to me that alongside the supplies 
and necessities of life, this shipment included touching letters from 
the schoolchildren of Utah. Gail Halvorsen is remembered not for his 
efficiency or logistics, but his kindness and gift for human 
connection.
  These diapers, packages of formula, and school supplies will be used 
by the most vulnerable of the Ukrainian refugees. This gesture of 
kindness will lift up weary hands and encourage struggling hearts of 
the mothers and fathers of these children. Importantly, at this moment 
of difficulty and despair, the Gail Halvorsen Foundation and the people 
of Utah are also remembering the people behind the tragedy and are 
remembering kindness, humanity, and an individual touch in the effort 
to relieve suffering.
  The people of Utah are not unfamiliar with stories of displacement. 
Utah was settled by religious refugees seeking freedom from persecution 
and violence. Indeed, the history of the United States is broadly 
marked by groups fleeing violence, persecution, or turmoil in their 
homelands. The American empathy for refugees and desire to help those 
in desperate need is alive and well in the hearts and minds of Utahns.
  Col. Gail S. Halvorsen lived a life dedicated to service. His 
signature kindness shines brightly in telling his signature story. His 
glowing smile matched his glowing personality. In Utah, we miss the 
``Candy Bomber'' and his personal touch. Neverthless, his mission and 
influence continues.
  The dedicated work of the Gail S. Halvorsen Foundation is changing 
lives today. Be it caring for refugees, inspiring kindness, or building 
future generations of STEM professionals, the Gail S. Halvorsen 
Foundation continues the legacy of one of Utah's greatest citizens. 
Col. Gail S. Halvorsen's story, his legacy, and his influence carry on 
bringing smiles and relief all along the way.

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