Political Quotes

“Today, there has been a lot of recognition about those who have served our country, so I rise in support of H.R. 685, the American Fighter Aces Congressional Gold Medal Act, introduced by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Johnson). This bill authorizes the minting and award of a single gold medal in recognition of the American fighter aces' heroic military service and defense of our country's freedom, which has spanned the history of aviation warfare. Once awarded, the medal will be given to the Smithsonian Institution, where it will be available for display or loan, as appropriate. Mr. Speaker, this country has had many military heroes in its history, men and women who have fought valiantly and who have often died in the process to defend freedom around the world. All are heroes, but none has captured the imagination more than the American fighter ace, flying usually alone, directly at the enemy. Each of us knows the story of one or more aces, but probably few know the stories of more than a couple of them. I think most people would be surprised to know that there are more than 1,500 of the more than 60,000 U.S. combat pilots who have achieved ace status by destroying five or more enemy aircraft in combat. What even fewer know is that not all of these pilots flew for the U.S., even as they flew in the defense of U.S. ideals.…”