House Unanimously Passes Hastings-Meek Resolution Honoring Barrington Irving's Historic Flight around the World

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives today unanimously passed a resolution honoring Barrington Irving, the youngest pilot and first person of African descent to ever fly solo around the world (H.Res. 661). The resolution was introduced by U.S. Representatives Alcee L. Hastings (D-Miramar) and Kendrick B. Meek (D-Miami), and encourages the pursuit of more initiatives like Irving's nonprofit organization, Experience Aviation, Inc., which encourages youth and underrepresented groups to pursue careers in aviation.

"Barrington Irving is one of the greatest young heroes of our time," remarked Representative Hastings. "His triumph demonstrates that if you reach for the sky, you truly can make it, and in turn, make history. The passage of this resolution is one of many initiatives to come that will reprioritize opportunities in aviation for our youth."

"When the younger generation is looking for a role model and hero, they need to look no further than Barrington Irving," said Congressman Meek. "This young pilot proved that when you dream big dreams and work hard, the extraordinary is possible. I am honored to call Barrington Irving a constituent."

Irving departed from Opa Locka Executive Airport in Opa Locka, Florida on March 23, 2007 and returned on June 27, 2007. His 24,600 mile flight took him to 27 cities around the world where he met with youth as an ambassador of opportunities in aviation.

Representatives Hastings and Meek introduced H. Res. 661 with 9 other original cosponsors. The bill passed with 44 bi-partisan cosponsors.

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U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek represents the 17th Congressional District of Florida which includes parts of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. He serves as the lone Floridian sitting on the House Committee on Ways and Means and also sits on the House Armed Services Committee.

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