[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 13] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 17931] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]TRIBUTE TO DICK RUTAN ______ HON. KEVIN McCARTHY of california in the house of representatives Thursday, July 31, 2008 Mr. McCARTHY of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Richard Glenn ``Dick'' Rutan, an aerospace pioneer, as he celebrated his 70th birthday on July 1, 2008. Dick was born in Loma Linda, California, on July 1, 1938. At a young age, Dick developed an avid interest in piloting. By the time he turned 16, Dick was earning both his driver's license and pilot certificate. Dick has always had a passionate thirst for learning, thereby leading him to join the Air Force Aviation Cadet Program at the age of 19 and later receiving a commission as a Lieutenant. Dick went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science Degree at the American Technological University through the Air Force Professional Education ``Boot Strap'' Program. When the Vietnam War broke out, Dick established himself as a brave, highly competent, and rigorous leader. As a Tactical Air Command fighter pilot, Dick flew 324 combat missions, 105 of which were as a high-risk classified operation known as the MISTY's. The many achievements Dick accomplished while serving in the Air Force merited him the Silver Star, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, 16 Air Medals, and the Purple Heart. After Dick's retirement, he joined forces with his brother, Burt Rutan, as the Production Manager and Chief Test Pilot for Rutan Aircraft Factory. He is widely recognized for his successes involving the world speed and distance records set in the Long-EZ, an airplane designed by Burt. To honor Dick's many achievements in record-setting flights, he was awarded the prestigious Louis Bleriot Medal by the Federation Aeronautique Internationale. In 1981, Dick expanded his wings even further to found Voyager Aircraft, Incorporated and settle in the history books by completing the first-ever around-the-world, non-stop, non-refueled flight. Nine days, three minutes and forty-four seconds after Dick and his copilot Jeana Yeager took off, he landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The plane he piloted in this successful quest is now suspended in the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's ``Milestones of Flight'' gallery in Washington, D.C. President Ronald Reagan awarded Dick and his team with the Presidential Citizens Medal, four days after the team's outstanding feat. Time and time again, Dick has delved into projects that allow him to expound upon his knowledge and share his expertise and adventures with others. These have included a sightseeing airplane trek to the North Pole, the World Quest Project, and the Spirit of EAA Friendship World Tour. He established the Dick Rutan Scholarship Fund to assist youth in furthering their education and is actively involved in the Experimental Aircraft Association's Science, Math and Technology (S-M-T) program. Today, Dick continues his quest of traveling the world by educating others through the accounts of his many adventures. He exudes dedicated passion, courage of conviction, and wisdom and he exemplifies the true marks of leadership. His distinguished achievements have gained him renowned recognition and respect, and I am pleased to wish him a happy birthday! ____________________