[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 114 (Wednesday, July 10, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E712-E713]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CELEBRATING DR. DAVID G. SMITH'S CAREER OF SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MIKE GARCIA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 10, 2024

  Mr. MIKE GARCIA of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 
the retirement of an American patriot who has proudly served our great 
Nation for more than 40 years. After a storied career in uniform and a 
distinguished civilian career at CA-27's Plant 42, Dr. Smith has earned 
some well-deserved time with friends and family.
  Prior to directing the 412th Test Wing Operating Location at Plant 
42, Dr. Smith began his career when he entered the U.S. Air Force. He 
graduated with top honors from the first Navigator Offensive Avionics 
Systems class at Castle Air Force Base. Following his

[[Page E713]]

first formal tour at Ellsworth Air Force Base, Dr. Smith served across 
the country in an impressive myriad of capacities, ranging anywhere 
from Instructor Navigator, to Branch Chief, to Regimental Air Liaison 
Officer. With approximately 3,000 flight hours and numerous accolades, 
including being a part of the 15th Air Force Crew of the Year, Dr. 
Smith consistently distinguished himself from his fellow airmen no 
matter which role he was serving in. His exemplary leadership led him 
to be selected as Deputy Director of the 412th Test Management Group 
and eventually the Edwards Inspector General.
  During his transition to civilian service, Dr. Smith continued to be 
an outstanding leader at Edwards Air Force Base. As Director of the 
412th Test Wing at Plant 42 he has led a multi-functional team that 
supports over 16,000 contract and government personnel; and worked with 
top defense contractors that produce and test B-2, U-2, RQ-4, F-22, and 
F-35. These important programs are not only the economic backbone of 
the Antelope Valley--they are also critical to ensuring our Nation's 
security and ability to deter and win a war. Additionally, he supported 
NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center's planetary and earth science 
missions and serves the state of California as our Title-31 Air Support 
Command Commander.
  Dr. Smith's life is a testament to dedication, passion, and 
leadership. As he enters retirement, his work will undoubtedly leave 
Edwards Air Force Base and Plant 42 well equipped to continue their 
mission in the coming years and his legacy will inspire future 
generations of pilots.
  On behalf of a grateful community, I extend our heart felt 
appreciation to Dr. David Smith for his outstanding service, and wish 
him happiness and prosperity in retirement. We thank him for his 
exceptional commitment to our country.

                          ____________________