Recognizing the Work of Bravo 369 Flight Foundation

Floor Speech

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Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of the Bravo 369 Flight Foundation and their current project, ``Warplanes to Siberia.'' Additionally, I want to recognize the efforts of the project's co-founders, Craig Lang and Jeff Geer. Mr. Geer, who serves as the President and Chairman of the Bravo 369 Flight Foundation, will pilot his own plane as part of the project. I applaud their work to educate and inspire the next generation of aviation enthusiasts.

``Warplanes to Siberia'' is a historical re-creation of the Alaska-Siberia air route (ALSIB) with both American and Russian pilots flying together in formation to celebrate the end of World War II. It will commence in 2015 and follow the exact flight route from Great Falls, Montana to Krasnoyarsk to Moscow, flying the same types of aircraft used 70 years ago. The project is intended to pay tribute to the men and women of the United States, Russia, and Canada who were involved in this effort during the war, and to bring awareness to the significance of their work.

The Alaska-Siberia air route was used to deliver warplanes to the Eastern Front of the war effort as part of President Roosevelt's Lend-Lease policy, and contributed to the success of the Allies in World War II. The re-creation of the flight route will be documented for educational and broadcasting purposes, and accompanied with school, airport, and museum visits.

I want to commend the Bravo 369 Flight Foundation and their continued work on the ``Warplanes to Siberia'' project, celebrating past achievements and building strong relations for the future.

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