[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 12783]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO GENERAL DONALD G. COOK

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. IKE SKELTON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 15, 2005

  Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, let me take this opportunity to honor 
General Donald Cook, United States Air Force, for his 36 years of 
dedicated service.
  During the past 36 years, General Cook has served in the Air Force 
with honor and distinction. He's a command pilot with over 3,300 hours. 
The general has commanded a flying training wing, two space wings, and 
the 20th Air Force--a real tribute to his leadership capabilities.
  General Cook has been the commander of Air Education and Training 
Command since December 9th, 2001. This command includes the Air Force 
Recruiting Service, two numbered air forces, Air University and 
consists of 15 wings, more than 66,000 active-duty members and 15,000 
civilians. As commander of the Air Force University, General Cook was 
responsible for recruiting, training and educating Airmen to sustain 
the combat capability of the Air Force.
  On a personal note, I have known General Cook and his wife Diane for 
a number of years. They and their family members are outstanding 
Americans who have dedicated a great deal of time and energy to public 
service. General Cook worked in my office for a year, working with me 
to formulate legislation on professional military education. Through 
the years, I have seen Don grow into a superb military leader.
  I know the members of the House will join me in Honoring General Cook 
and in wishing his family and him all the best in the years to come.

                          ____________________