Congressional Veteran Commendation for Colonel Edward Meschko
Floor Speech
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Mr. FALLON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colonel Edward Thomas ``Tom'' Meschko of Whitesboro, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. Colonel Meschko honorably served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War.
In 1961, Colonel Meschko applied to the newly built Air Force Academy and was selected to join their seventh class. He trained as a fighter pilot and was stationed at the Wright Patterson Air Force Base and Bien Hoa Air Base in Vietnam. During his Air Force career, Colonel Meschko participated in 216 combat missions against North Vietnamese forces in the F-100 Super Sabre jet fighter. Furthermore, he was a flight instructor and test pilot for over 36 models of the most advanced aircraft prototypes at the time, including the F-16 fighter aircraft.
Using test data gained through Colonel Meschko's experimental flights, the United States was able to transform the F-16 into a modern air superiority fighter that is currently in use by 25 countries. Through his extensive qualifications and expertise, Colonel Meschko became the Deputy Commander of Operations for F-16s located in U.S. bases throughout Europe. His efforts help bolster and strengthen our NATO allies'capabilities to defend against Soviet-led aggression. For his outstanding service, Colonel Meschko received numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit and Distinguished Flying Cross.
After returning to civilian life, Colonel Meschko worked as a senior engineer for Lockheed Martin and sought to be a test pilot on the prototype F-22 Raptor. As he experienced health complications that affected his ability to fly the F-22, he retired from Lockheed Martin after 10 years and later became the President and CEO of Fightertown Aviation, Inc., and a senior consultant for military contracts. In 2018, Colonel Meschko retired after decades of important contributions to the Air Force and aviation industry. I commend him for his selfless service and sacrifices to defend our great nation.
I am honored to represent Colonel Meschko in Texas' 4th Congressional District. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and to the people of North Texas.
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