[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 109 (Thursday, June 22, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E602-E603]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF DON BATEMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. SUZAN K. DelBENE

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 22, 2023

  Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with my colleague, 
Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, to mourn the loss of a remarkable individual 
and true visionary, Don Bateman. As

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we remember and celebrate his extraordinary life, we recognize the 
immense contributions he made to the field of aviation and the safety 
of our skies.
  Don Bateman was a pioneer in aviation, a man whose intellect and 
passion for flight reshaped the way we fly. Don Bateman made 
significant contributions to the development of numerous groundbreaking 
technologies that revolutionized aviation safety systems. He was the 
mastermind behind the Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System, a 
pivotal technology that has prevented countless collisions by warning 
pilots if their plane is heading into a mountain, radio tower, or some 
other obstacle. Before the warning system became widespread, obstacle 
collisions were among the leading causes of death from airline 
accidents. But because of Don's innovative work, these kinds of 
accidents are now incredibly rare. Many folks in the aviation industry 
believe he has saved more lives than anyone else in the history of 
flight.
  Don's brilliance extended far beyond his professional 
accomplishments. He was not only a trailblazer in aviation safety, but 
also a mentor and an inspiration to countless aspiring engineers, 
scientists, and aviation professionals. He was a man of integrity, 
kindness, and humility. His warmth and genuine concern for the well-
being of others left an indelible mark on everyone who had the 
privilege of knowing him.
  Today, as we mourn the loss of Don Bateman, let us also celebrate his 
remarkable life and the immense legacy he leaves behind. His 
groundbreaking work will continue to guide the aviation industry for 
generations to come, ensuring that the skies remain safe.
  On behalf of this chamber, we extend our deepest condolences to Don 
Bateman's family, friends, and colleagues. May they find solace in 
knowing that his contributions have made the world a safer place and 
that his memory will continue to inspire the next generation of 
technology leaders.

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