Uniformed and civilian defense officials, airmen of all ages and friends and family gathered in Washington Oct. 14 to help dedicate the new Air Force Memorial overlooking the Pentagon. President George Bush officially accepted the memorial on behalf of the nation, noting in his remarks: “Building this memorial took a lot of talent and creativity and determination. Like the aircraft whose flight it represents, this memorial is an incredible feat of engineering. Like the country whose freedom it represents, this memorial is hopeful and optimistic. By its design, this monument raises our eyes toward the vast and open skies, and focuses our mind on the endless possibilities of human flight. (This link will find Air Force coverage of the event.)
House lawmakers are encouraging the Air Force and U.S. Special Operations Command to work together as each pursues long-range, long-endurance reconnaissance drones. Both entities are investing in unmanned assets that can slip into highly defended areas, loiter over a particularly valuable target for days at a time, and traverse multiple…