VIDEO: Sen. Moran Speaks on the Senate Floor to Honor Kansan & Aviation Leader Ed Bolen

Sen. Moran's full remarks as delivered:

"Over the weekend, there was an announcement, Madame President, and I rise as a result of that announcement. I rise tonight, this evening, to recognize Ed Bolen, a native of Salina, Kansas, who has been a leading voice for the aviation industry for decades.

"After 22 years as president and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), Ed announced his retirement.

"Ed's passion for flying began early when he was introduced to aviation by his father, who served on the board of the Salina Regional Airport Authority.

"Ed went on to earn his pilot's license, and he turned a love of flying into a career as a champion of general aviation and the men and women who support that industry.

"Early in his career, Ed served as a legislative aid for U.S. Senator Nancy Kassebaum of Kansas, where he played a key role in the passage of the historic General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1994. This legislation helped revitalize aircraft manufacturing, preserve thousands of jobs and strengthen the general aviation industry, which remains a critical component of the Kansas economy.

"Throughout his career, Ed has worked across the aisle to achieve results for aviation. His career included time as a member and chair of the Management Advisory Council at the Federal Aviation Administration, and he also served on the Commission on the Future of U.S. Aerospace Industry. In each of these roles, he helped shape our national aviation policies to further national security, economic growth and technological advances.

"Since joining NBAA in 2004, Ed has continued to be a champion for the aviation industry that he loves so much. He's been a trusted advisor to Members of Congress, policy makers and aviation stakeholder, building consensus around issues that matter most to the future of aviation.

"Whether advocating for safer and more efficient aviation system, protecting access to our nation's airports and airspace, supporting workforce development or championing air traffic control modernization, Ed has met every challenge with determination, thoughtful leadership and unwavering commitment to the community he represents.

"In true Kansas fashion, Ed has always focused on people, on relationships, on bringing others together to accomplish positive outcomes. The mindset has made him not only an effective advocate, but also a valued friend, advisor and respected voice throughout the aviation community. It is fitting that Ed first discovered his love for flying at a regional airport in Kansas, the Air Capital of the World.

"On behalf of the United States Senate, I want to thank Ed for his years of service and his steadfast commitment to the men and women who make up the aviation community. I express my appreciation to him and his family for his commitment, and I wish them the very best now and in the future. His leadership will clearly be missed."

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