Washington, DC – The U.S. House passed legislation (H.R. 5591) Tuesday night introduced by Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) designating the FAA facility at Spokane International Airport the “Ray Daves Air Traffic Control Tower.”  Ray Daves is a veteran of World War II and a retired air traffic controller who has made Spokane his home for the past 65 years.  He recently celebrated his 90^th birthday. 

“I am proud the House has taken this action on behalf of Ray Daves, who represents the best of the Spokane community and America,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers.   “By naming the Control Tower after Ray, we will remind all those who enter the Tower of this great American, plus all the sacrifices that were made by Ray and his generation.”

Ray Daves is a Pearl Harbor survivor, a Yorktown survivor, and a Purple Heart recipient.  He currently volunteers his time to educate others about the Honor Flight program so all veterans may get a chance to visit the World War II Memorial built in their honor. 

The Congresswoman submitted the following statement into the Congressional Record.

Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers

Floor Statement in Support of

Ray Daves Air Traffic Control Tower Dedication

H.R. 5591

Madam Speaker,

I rise today in strong support of H.R. 5591, to designate the Federal Aviation Administration facility at the Spokane International Airport in Spokane, Washington, as the “Ray Daves Air Traffic Control Tower.” I thank Chairman Oberstar and Ranking Member Mica for bringing the bill to the floor today.

As the sponsor of this bill, it is with great pride I stand here today.  Ray Daves is a Purple Heart receipt and Pearl Harbor survivor who served our nation aboard the USS Yorktown throughout the Pacific during World War II.

While Ray’s military service alone warrants this dedication, his commitment to his country and community since leaving the military justifies it as well.  For the last 65 years, Ray has made Spokane his home – first working as an air traffic controller and still to this day volunteering his time to educate others about the Honor Flight Program for World War II veterans.

This recognition not only commemorates Ray’s sacrifices and accomplishments, but also those made by the greatest generation, whose sacrifices to our country will never be forgotten.

I urge all of my colleagues to support HR 5591 and join me in thanking Ray Daves and those like him for his life of service. 

I yield the balance of my time. 

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