CRAPO CO-SPONSORS AIR FORCE HONORS

Washington, DC - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo, having recently returned to Washington, DC after participating in the Air Force Appreciation Day Parade in Mountain Home, is co-sponsoring legislation marking the 60th Anniversary of an independent Air Force. The Senate Resolution introduced by Senator Mike Enzi (R-Wyoming) lists the accomplishments of the U.S. Air Force since it was made an independent branch of the military by President Harry S. Truman in the National Security Act of 1947, enacted on September 18, 1947.

"For 17 consecutive years beginning in 1990, our airmen have been engaged in combat operations ranging from Desert Shield to Iraqi Freedom and the entire time the U.S. Air Force has been steadfast in its commitment to field a world-class, expeditionary air force by recruiting, training, and educating its Total Force of active duty, Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve, and civilian personnel," Crapo read from the resolution introduced today.

"When terrorists attacked the United States on September 11, 2001, U.S. Air Force fighter and refueling aircraft took to the skies to fly combat air patrols over our major cities. They continue to protect our families, friends, and neighbors from further attack and it is right that we take the time in the U.S. Senate to honor these brave men and women and their accomplishments," Crapo added.

The resolution concludes by saying Congress "remembers, honors, and commends the achievements of the United States Air Force in serving and defending the United States on the 60th Anniversary of the creation of the United States Air Force as an independent military service."