MARK BURNS INDUCTED INTO LIVING LEGENDS OF AVIATION

On 2026-02-10, Representative Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (R-GA-1) delivered a floor speech titled "MARK BURNS INDUCTED INTO LIVING LEGENDS OF AVIATION" in the House. The speech addressed the environment and also covered education.

MARK BURNS INDUCTED INTO LIVING LEGENDS OF AVIATION

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 28 (Tuesday, February 10, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 28 (Tuesday, February 10, 2026)] [House] [Pages H2102-H2103] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] MARK BURNS INDUCTED INTO LIVING LEGENDS OF AVIATION (Mr. Carter of Georgia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Mark Burns, president of Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, on his induction into the 23rd annual Living Legends of Aviation. Founded in 2003, the Living Legends of Aviation awards recognize individuals who have significantly impacted the aviation industry. This includes entrepreneurs, innovators, industry leaders, astronauts, record setters, pilots turned celebrities, and celebrities who have become pilots. A Savannah native, Mr. Burns earned his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Georgia Southern University and began working at Gulfstream Aerospace in 1983. Over the course of more than four decades, he has served in numerous leadership roles across the company, including engineering and customer support. In July 2025, Mr. Burns was named president of Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, proudly leading the organization since then, contributing significantly to its growth and success. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Mr. Burns on his leadership in both the aviation industry and his induction into the Living Legends of Aviation. {time} 1030 Honoring Former UGA President Michael Adams Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of Michael Adams, the former president of the University of Georgia. Unfortunately, Dr. Adams passed away on January 25 at the age of 77. From 1977 to 2013, he served as the University of Georgia's 21st president, transforming our State's flagship university into one of the Nation's most prominent public institutions. Under his visionary leadership, enrollment grew from nearly 30,000 to 35,000 students, Federal research expenditures nearly tripled, and the endowment more than doubled. Dr. Adams oversaw more than $1 billion in campus construction and renovation, creating vital facilities for teaching, research, and student life. His success as a university administrator was recognized by more than 50 higher education awards. He deeply believed in the transformative power of higher education, and his stewardship directly strengthened Georgia for generations. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Adams has left an enduring legacy that will forever touch the soul of our beloved State. Honoring Colonel Stephen ``Tracker'' Thomas Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colonel Stephen ``Tracker'' Thomas, who is retiring from command of Georgia's Combat Readiness Training Center at Savannah Air National Guard Base. Since assuming command in 2023, Colonel Thomas has led this premier training hub with unmatched commitment and devotion. [[Page H2103]] Drawing on nearly two decades of combined Active-Duty and Air National Guard service, he elevated the CRTC's role in preparing warfighters for great power competition. Under his leadership, the center continued hosting quarterly large force exercises, training specialists in theater-deployable communications, and delivering exclusive cross-demand training from Charleston to Orlando. His vision has solidified the CRTC as a vital national asset for the Air Force, Air National Guard, Reserves, and other partners. Mr. Speaker, I thank Colonel Thomas for ensuring global air readiness and dominance. We wish him and his family a fulfilling retirement. Honoring the Memory of George Whittenburg Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of George Whittenburg, a bright young man taken from us far too soon following a tragic car accident on January 30. George was a 21-year-old student at the University of Georgia from Austin, Texas. He was a beloved son, brother, cousin, and friend whose infectious spirit touched countless lives. Through his involvement in Sigma Phi Epsilon and Cru, a religious organization at the University of Georgia, George exemplified faith, leadership, and kindness. His friends would describe him as smart, confident, and a source of comedic relief, a Christlike man who overcame personal struggles to inspire others toward ministry and service. George's personal growth and friendship have left a lasting impact on the Athens community, with thousands praying for him following the accident. Mr. Speaker, our hearts ache for this loss. I pray for the Whittenburg family and all who knew him. May God's perfect plan bring them comfort. ____________________