Senate Joint Resolution 8 Oregon Laws 2009

AN ACT

          Whereas Wes Lematta founded Columbia Helicopters in 1957; and

          Whereas Wes Lematta once saved 15 seamen from a sinking ship off Coos Bay, Oregon, an act of bravery for which he was awarded the Army Air Medal by the United States Army Corps of Engineers; and

          Whereas Wes Lematta proved the feasibility of helicopter logging in 1971; and

          Whereas Columbia Helicopters is recognized as the world leader in heavy-lift helicopter operations; and

          Whereas Columbia Helicopters is now also engaged in servicing United States Armed Forces’ helicopters; and

          Whereas Columbia Helicopters has had its global headquarters located at Aurora State Airport since 1976; and

          Whereas Columbia Helicopters is the largest year-round employer in the Aurora community; now, therefore,

Be It Resolved by the Legislative Assembly of the State of Oregon:

          That the airstrip at the Aurora State Airport be named the Wes Lematta Field at Aurora State Airport.

Filed in the office of Secretary of State June 11, 2009

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