Hoyer Presents Congressional Gold Medal to Family of Civil Air Patrol Veteran

INDIAN HEAD, MD – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) today presented a Congressional Gold Medal award, awarded to the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), to the family of Charles A. Bauserman in honor of his service in CAP during World War II. Bauserman flew CAP missions in his own airplane and built an airport, which is now the Maryland Airport, to support the effort.

"It was an honor for me to celebrate Charles Bauserman's tremendous contributions to the Civil Air Patrol, to the state of Maryland, and to the United States of America,"said Congressman Steny Hoyer. "From reconnaissance to search and rescue, from cargo hauling to flight training, Civil Air Patrol pilots played a critical role in achieving victory in World War II. One of those who answered the call to serve – and who did so with exemplary courage, character, and leadership – was Charles Bauserman."

"Not only did he fly missions, but he also led the effort to build the Maryland Airport where we stand today and organized civil defense across Charles County," continued Congressman Hoyer. "For 65 years, we have seen his legacy in Charles County, and the Bauserman family continues to live by his example."

Rep. Hoyer presented Charles Bauserman's son, Gilbert, with the Congressional Gold Medal in his father's name, which is an official replica of the medal bestowed collectively on the Civil Air Patrol Veterans of World War II. He also presented a flag, which was flown over the United States Capitol building in recognition of Bauserman's service to the U.S. Air Force Civil Air Patrol.