In Recognition of Lockheed Martin's F 22 Program

Floor Speech

Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart as the delivery ceremony of the last F 22 Raptor will take place next Wednesday in Marietta, Georgia, my hometown, tail No. 195--far short of what our Air Force needs.

Over the last three decades, the Cobb County community has watched the F 22 grace our skies as thousands of our citizens have worked steadfastly to make the Marietta production a model line. Many of our neighbors have indeed had a direct hand in producing the most capable fighter jet in history. The program has been a critical component of America's industrial base and a source of economic strength, creating 25,000 American jobs in 44 States and representing more than $12 billion in annual economic activity. The F 22 protects our citizens and our soldiers, and it deters America's enemies. Its legacy will be a credit to our community for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Lockheed Martin and the F 22 program.

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