This resolution honors the 50-year legacy and vital contributions of the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter and the dedicated personnel who operate and sustain it.
Mark Kelly
Senator
AZ
This resolution recognizes the significant achievements and contributions of the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter to U.S. national defense over the last 50 years. It honors the dedicated service and sacrifice of the Army aviators, maintainers, and support personnel who operate and sustain this vital aircraft. The resolution celebrates the Apache's enduring role in providing unmatched close air support and precision strike capabilities for the United States and its allies.
Congress Honors 50 Years of the AH-64 Apache Helicopter, Recognizing Personnel and Manufacturing Base
This Congressional resolution isn’t about changing tax brackets or adding new regulations; it’s a purely symbolic move to recognize the 50th anniversary of the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter’s first flight, which occurred on September 30, 1975. The resolution acknowledges the Apache’s long service record, its design for close air support and deep strike missions, and its continuous modernization from the AH-64A to the advanced AH-64E model, which incorporates advanced digital systems.
The Apache’s Footprint: Combat and Commerce
While this resolution doesn’t spend a dime, it highlights the significant economic and military footprint of the aircraft. The Apache has logged over 5.2 million total flight hours, including more than 1.3 million combat hours across every major conflict since the Gulf War, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. For those of us who track defense spending and domestic jobs, it’s worth noting the resolution specifically points out that the final assembly occurs in Arizona, supported by a supplier base spread across 46 states, meaning the program touches thousands of manufacturing jobs nationwide.
Who This Resolution Affects
Since this is a non-binding resolution, the direct impact on the average person is minimal. However, the resolution serves as an official 'thank you' note from Congress, honoring the dedication, service, and sacrifice of the U.S. Army aviators, maintainers, and support personnel who operate and sustain the Apache. This is a formal recognition of the thousands of men and women stationed globally—from installations worldwide to the four Army National Guard battalions—who rely on this platform daily. The resolution concludes by directing the Secretary of the Senate to send a copy of the recognition to the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker, Alabama, cementing the tribute for those in the Army Aviation community.