WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Randy Neugebauer (TX-19) spoke on the House floor commemorating the 60th birthday of the United States Air Force. Neugebauer represents Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, TX, home of the 7th Bomb Wing and the C-130 Hercules of the 317th Airlift Group Below is the text of Neugebauer’s speech:

“I rise today to offer my sincerest birthday wishes to an American institution that has helped provide us all with the freedom and liberty we enjoy today, the Department of the Air Force. 

“It was 60 years ago today, following the passage of the National Security Act of 1947 that W. Stuart Symington was sworn in as the nation’s first Secretary of the Air Force, chosen to lead an organization finally given its rightful place in the brand-new Department of Defense.

“The Air Force has gone on to become our steadfast defender on high, enabling us to live in relative peace and tranquility knowing they are always there literally keeping a watchful eye on our nation.

“Since its inception, the Department of the Air Force has been a global leader in perfecting and applying cutting edge research and development. 

“Whether it was the transition from the propeller to jet engine to its use of computer aided weaponry incorporating satellite technology, to today’s use of the unmanned aerial vehicle, taking Soldiers, Marines, Sailors and Airmen off the battlefield, the Air Force has been a leader in the ‘Revolution in Military Affairs.’

“Whether it’s patrolling the desert skies during Operation Northern Watch or deterring looming Iraqi aggression during Operation Vigilant Warrior, both in the 1990’s, the men and women of the Air Force are constantly reminded that peace is not always peaceful. 

“Providing a multitude of services to their fellow warriors on the ground, along with dominating the skies against our enemies, they have played a critical role in not only defending America’s interests abroad but also being ambassadors of goodwill. 

“Just ask the airmen who sit on constant alert in Central Command ready to deliver relief aid, as they did last summer during the conflict between Lebanon and Israel, delivering more than 10 tons of food and supplies to the region.  Foreign citizen and American alike were once again blessed by the humanitarian spirit of the Air Force.

“Today I rise not just as a proud American, but as a Members of Congress who is blessed with the good fortune of representing the brave men and women of the 7th Bomb Wing and the mighty C-130 Hercules of the 317th Airlift Group at Dyess Air Force Base.

“Just last week I met with several of them before they deployed overseas, and I was swept away by their overwhelming courage and resounding spirit.  Americans know that when airmen put their flight suits on, they are putting it on for all Americans.  They do it so that others can continue to live freely. 

“In the relatively short time the Air Force has been in existence, its contributions to America’s security have been historic.  America owes the United States Air Force a debt of gratitude for all they’ve given us, and will continue to give us, without fear or hesitation; they are the backbone of our projected forces. 

“I wish them a very happy 60th birthday and best wishes for another successful 60 years.”