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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E491-E492]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING COLONEL THOMAS G. FALZARANO
______
HON. DOUG LAMBORN
of colorado
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
Mr. LAMBORN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Colonel
Thomas G. Falzarano, USAF, who passed away on May 12, 2020 after a
lifetime of distinguished service to his country. Colonel Falzarano was
a devoted husband, a caring father, a leader of character, and a
champion for our nation's ideals.
Thomas G. Falzarano was born September 20, 1972 in Nashua, New
Hampshire to George Marshall and Joan Denise (Campagnone) Falzarano.
Growing up with five siblings meant that he had to hone his competitive
spirit and leadership skills early. Such skills prompted him to seek an
appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, which he acquired.
His career in the Air Force shaped Colonel Falzarano's personal
leadership style. His three R's (Respect, Readiness, and
Responsibility) complimented the service values of the Air Force. His
embodiment of these characteristics was seen in every sphere of his
life. None more prevalent, however, than the relationship that he had
with his wife Stacey and children Trevor, Spencer, Michael, Thomas, and
Valentina.
Competence in every aspect of the profession of arms is a moral
obligation for those accepting a commission. For those under his
command, Colonel Falzarano set the example of virtue, honor,
patriotism, and service. He did not take lightly the responsibility of
mentoring, inspiring, and challenging the sons and daughters entrusted
to him. His strategic assignments and personal decorations after
[[Page E492]]
graduating the Air Force Academy in 1994 speak to his proficiency and
exemplary performance as an Officer.
His personal decorations and career advancement paled in comparison,
however, to the pride he exhibited when speaking about the Airman he
was fortunate enough to lead. He met with spouses and families
throughout the 21st Space Wing--ensuring their voices and concerns were
heard. He took time to mentor Airmen under his charge; he listened to
squadron commanders, group commanders and first sergeants in order to
fully understand the needs and concerns of the Airmen. Regardless of
rank, he met and followed up with every individual seeking his
expertise.
He embodied the aspects of servant leadership. He made it a point to
learn the job of everyone under his command so that, when the time
came, he could advocate on their behalf. This included standing
shoulder to shoulder with Airmen of the 21st Civil Engineer Squadron
filling potholes, shadowing security forces throughout his area of
operations, suiting up with EOD to participate in a bomb simulation;
meeting with the space operators from the 10th Space Warning Squadron
and the many Air Force civilians that made the mission possible. He
took time to speak with, listen to, and thank everyone from the
commissary bagger staff to the public affairs team that allowed his
Airmen to focus on their task at hand. Colonel Falzarano believed that
the entire 21st Space Wing family had a role to play, and if he could
invest in the lives of those under his charge, the Airmen would have
exponential success in their mission. He was a Commander that
understood the impact his physical presence had on the units he led and
made the well-being of his Airmen a priority.
Through his character, competence, and leadership, he made a
difference in the lives of everyone with whom he came in contact.
Colonel Falzarano's positive impact throughout the enlisted,
commissioned, and civilian ranks will have a ripple effect on Air Force
leadership for generations to come. It was a privilege to have met
Colonel Falzarano and it is an honor to recognize his incredible life.
____________________
