Banks Speaks on Amendment to Recognize Smith Field in Fort Wayne as National Airmail Museum

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) has introduced an amendment to legislation the House of Representatives is currently debating that would reauthorize the programs of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Banks amendment would recognize the hangar at Smith Field in Fort Wayne as the National Airmail Museum. Rep. Banks spoke about his proposal during amendment debate on the House floor today. 

Click here to view Congressman Banks’ speech. 

Text of the speech follows:

Mr. Speaker, my amendment is simple, and would designate the hangar at Smith Air Field in Fort Wayne, Indiana as the National Airmail Museum.

Currently there is no such museum with this designation.

I want to also make clear that my amendment prohibits any federal funding to support this important initiative for the community—it is a zero-cost amendment.

The significance of hangar 2, which is the only example of Clark W. Smith’s patented carousel design, makes it a fine fit for receiving this designation.

In 1911 the United States Postal Service began airmail delivery and in 1930 commercial air mail service came to Smith Air Field.

Mr. Speaker, this recognition would be a great addition to the community and a vital tool to educate the American people on the significant role airmail played in the evolution of aviation.

Furthermore, such recognition would propel the ongoing initiative to preserve and share the history of airmail.

I urge my colleagues to support this amendment and support the preservation of airmail history.