[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 10]
[House]
[Page 14122]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE LIFE OF GLENN ``SKIDS'' SMITH

  (Mr. SCHILLING asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mr. SCHILLING. Mr. Speaker, on September 1 of 2012, a tragedy 
occurred at the Quad City Air Show when a 30-year-old L-39 fighter jet 
fell from the sky, claiming the life of a veteran pilot.
  Glenn Smith, or ``Skids,'' as he is remembered by his fellow Hoppers 
of Frisco, Texas, never shied away from adventure. He lived life to the 
fullest as a certified scuba diver, as a licensed sailor, and as a 
self-proclaimed ``struggling'' golfer. Nearly three decades ago, he 
took one of the greatest risks and started what would eventually become 
a successful business. In 2006, Skids retired to pursue his true 
passion--flying. Restoring and flying fighter jets wasn't just a hobby 
to him; it was a way to share a piece of our Nation's history with 
people across the country.
  Skids will always be remembered by those he motivated through his 
mission to educate the general public and to inspire kids to work hard 
in school, aim high in life, and have fun. Skids' enthusiasm for life 
will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and 
friends and teammates he leaves behind.

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