WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04) applauded the signing of legislation to rename the Provo Veterans Center after the late Colonel Gail S. Halvorsen into law. The bill, co-sponsored by Utah’s federal delegation, honors the life and legacy of Col. Halvorsen, affectionately referred to as the ‘Candy. Bomber’ for his unique and effective efforts in distributing candy to the impoverished children of Berlin during the 1948 Berlin Airlift.
Halvorsen’s compassion, humanitarianism, and community service did not end in 1948. He dedicated much of his life to serving children, promoting diplomacy between the United States and Germany, and regularly participated in community celebrations and re-enactments of the Candy Bombing of the Berlin Airlift. While Halvorsen died in February of this year, his legacy continues through the Utah-based Gail S. Halvorsen Aviation Education Foundation.
“Col. Gail Halvorsen embodies Utah’s one-of-a-kind spirit of service, compassion, and generosity,” said Rep. Owens. “Col. Gail S. Halvorsen is a Utah veteran and an American hero and I’m proud to join this united effort to honor him and his family in a way that will continue his extraordinary legacy.”

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