Recognizing the Achievements of Colonel Reginald L. Bassa, Sr.

Floor Speech

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Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the service and accomplishments completed by Colonel Reginald L. Bassa, Sr. Colonel Bassa dedicated his life to service on behalf of the United States, with an extensive career of thirty years. Today, I invite us all to celebrate and reflect on the contributions of Colonel Bassa to our community.

Born in Hastings, Florida on March 4, 1933, Colonel Bassa attended Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University) where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1954. Upon graduating, Colonel Bassa was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. To further his knowledge and skills in preparation for his career as a Colonel, he attended flight training in Malden, Missouri and then Greenville AFB, Mississippi. Additionally, he completed Squadron Officer School and Basic/Graduate Supply Officer's Course.

Throughout his service, Bassa held various positions including the 305th Bomb Wing, McDill AFB, Florida supporting B-47's involving operations to Ben Greer AFB, North Africa; then assigned to the 72nd Bomb Wing, Ramey AFB, Puerto Rico involving hazardous refueling missions with B-52's and KC 135 Aircraft to Neu Assal AFB North Africa. Although he was able to come back to the continental United States in 1960, Colonel Bassa was then assigned to Albrook AFB, Panama during troubling times in the Canal Zone two years later due to his specialty qualifications (AFSC).

After a year abroad, Colonel Bassa was reassigned to the continental United States where he remained for the rest of his career. Once back in the States, his assignments included the 840th Combat Support Group, Lockbourne AFB, Ohio, transitioning to the Airforce Reserves supporting the Tactical Airlift Command, Strategic Airlift Command and Air Defense Command, the 934th Tactical Airlift Group, Minnesota, and then the 440th Tactical Airlift Command, Wisconsin.

During his assignment at Richards Gebaur AFB, Belton, Missouri, he was promoted to Colonel where he served as Deputy Wing Commander Logistics in the 442nd Tactical Airlift Wing. In 1979, Colonel Bassa was notified he was under consideration for a promotion to rank as a General. However, this promotion would require yet another move which led to the Colonel to retire as he realized how entrenched and happy his family was with living in Kansas City.

Colonel Bassa's career of three decades is clear evidence of his dedication to his community and country. On behalf of the United States Congress and Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, I thank Colonel Bassa for his work ethic and service throughout his career.

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