HONORING JACK HOLSCLAW

On 2026-05-21, Representative Michael Baumgartner (R-WA-5) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING JACK HOLSCLAW" in the House.

HONORING JACK HOLSCLAW

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 87 (Thursday, May 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 87 (Thursday, May 21, 2026)] [House] [Pages H3676-H3677] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] {time} 1030 HONORING JACK HOLSCLAW (Mr. Baumgartner of Washington was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. BAUMGARTNER. Mr. Speaker, in honor of Memorial Day, I rise to recognize a true gentleman who lived a life of honor and service to the Nation and the community of Spokane, Mr. Jack Daniels Holsclaw. Mr. Holsclaw was born in Spokane and, from a young age, demonstrated excellence. As a 15-year-old, he was the first African American to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout in Spokane. Attending North Central High School, he excelled academically in sports and later attended both Whitworth College and Washington State University, where he played baseball for famed coach Arthur ``Buck'' Bailey. On October 5, 1942, Jack enlisted in the Army as a private and later entered flight school. He trained at the Tuskegee Army Airfield in Alabama and received his wings and commission in the Army Air Corps in 1943. In December 1943, his squadron was shipped overseas to Italy, where he became part of the famed 332nd Fighter Group. The aircraft of the 332nd had distinctive red tails to differentiate them from other P-51 outfits, leading to the nickname ``Red Tails.'' Lieutenant Holsclaw fought his most memorable aerial battle on July 18, 1944. That day, all four squadrons of the 332nd Fighter Group, each composed of 16 P-51s, were providing protection for B-17 bombing runs on German targets. The group leader was forced to return to base due to engine problems. Lieutenant Holsclaw, without being ordered, took over command. A German fighter force of nearly 300 ME-109s attacked the bomber formation. Three squadrons stayed with the bombers while Lieutenant Holsclaw, as flight leader of the day, took part in a mission. They were able to pursue in certain circumstances in the battle. Eleven German planes were shot down. Lieutenant Holsclaw shot down two ME- 109s. The effective 332nd Fighter Group reaction allowed the bombers to hit their targets with no losses. For his actions of taking the lead on July 18, 1944, and downing two enemy aircraft, Jack Holsclaw was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. By December 1944, he had completed 68 combat missions. Captain Holsclaw returned to the United States in June 1945 and continued on with service in what became the United States Air Force. He would rise to the rank of lieutenant colonel. On December 31, 1964, Lieutenant Holsclaw retired and received the Distinguished Service Medal for his accomplishments. Jack and his wife, Bernice, ultimately returned to Spokane, where he completed a second career in banking in 1983. Mr. Speaker, it is exemplary men like Lieutenant Colonel Jack Holsclaw who built the Air Force of today. Our Nation owes him and men like him a debt of gratitude. I would say, as a father of children who attend North Central High School, I hope that they one day grow up to be citizens like Lieutenant Holsclaw. Honoring Phil Kowzan Mr. BAUMGARTNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the remarkable service of Phil Kowzan, an 88-year-old Spokane resident who spent 25 years honoring our veterans with the solemn sound of taps. For 3,335 funerals at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery, Mr. Kowzan stood in all weather to ensure every servicemember received a live, personal tribute. He began this mission in 2001 when he refused to let a friend's funeral rely on a recording, choosing instead to play taps himself. In March, Mr. Kowzan performed the melody for the final time, closing a quarter century of quiet, steadfast service. Though his bugle will now fall silent, the dignity he brought to each farewell will endure. Mr. Speaker, join me in honoring Phil Kowzan for his devotion, humility, and unwavering respect for those who served our Nation. Recognizing Spokane Pool Heroes Mr. BAUMGARTNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary heroism displayed by a group of individuals from Spokane, including four remarkable teenagers whose quick thinking and selfless action saved a man's life on April 18. While swimming at the Mirabeau Park Hotel pool in Spokane Valley, Ben Wagele, Weston Collins, and siblings Rae and Ethan Overby noticed a man unconscious in the water and immediately sprang into action. Together, they pulled him to safety. Rae Overby began prompt administration of chest compressions. [[Page H3677]] They were soon joined by hotel employees Tammy Hall and Donoven Bond, who assisted in performing CPR until first responders arrived on the scene. According to the paramedic captain who responded, the patient likely would not have survived were it not for the group's awareness, immediate response, and remarkable teamwork under pressure. In recognition of their lifesaving efforts, these six individuals were honored by the Spokane Fire Commissioners. I am proud to recognize them for their courage and commend each for their exemplary actions here on the floor of Congress. Mr. Speaker, as we approach Memorial Day, I also encourage families across the country to celebrate safely. May this inspiring story serve as a reminder of the profound difference ordinary people can make. ____________________