[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 19 (Monday, January 30, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S143]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING 100 YEARS OF THE ``FLYING YANKEES''
Mr. BLUMENTHAL. Mr. President, today I rise to recognize the 103rd
Airlift Wing of the Connecticut Air National Guard--the ``Flying
Yankees''--as they celebrate 100 years of dedicated service to the
State and our Nation.
The Flying Yankees are the 11th oldest Air National Guard unit in the
United States, including a squadron that has served more than 90 years
in military aviation. Operating from the Bradley Air National Guard
Base in East Granby, CT, the 103rd Airlift Wing provides tactical
airpower and mission support for the State and Nation. The unit carries
out this critical mission through highly qualified and proficient C-130
aircrew.
The 103rd Airlift Wing has a history that dates back to the earliest
years of military aviation, and the Flying Yankees have fought bravely
in numerous conflicts throughout the last century. From their efforts
in France during World War I, to their heroic service in the China-
India-Burma theater of operations during World War II, the Flying
Yankees have a long history of valiantly serving our Nation both at
home and abroad. The unit's service continued through the Cold War and
more recent conflicts. The Flying Yankees innovate to meet the changing
needs of the State and the Nation, carrying on their great tradition of
dedicated service to this day.
For a century, the brave members of the 103rd Airlift Wing of the
Connecticut Air National Guard have embodied their motto--``faithful
and alert''--answering the call to service for both Connecticut and the
Nation. I applaud their determination and dedication to the vital
mission of defending our country and hope my colleagues will join me in
congratulating the Flying Yankees on this momentous occasion of their
100th anniversary.
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