[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 134 (Thursday, September 22, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: September 22, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
               TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE JAMES L. WHITTEN

                                 ______


                               speech of

                            HON. NEAL SMITH

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 19, 1994

  Mr. SMITH of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, whenever we speak of the history of 
this body and touch upon the most distinguished men and women who have 
served here, we must surely include our friend and colleague, Jamie 
Whitten, among those deserving the highest honor and praise. Not only 
does he hold the unique position of having served longer in this body 
than any person in the history of the Congress, he has witnessed during 
the course of his service some of the best of times and the worst of 
times through which our country has journeyed. Throughout, his wisdom, 
experience, and insight have helped enormously in guiding us during 
storm and calm alike.
  When I first came to Congress, I was lucky at the drawing for office 
space and received the first choice among the freshmen. I chose an 
office next to his office. Both Jamie and his staff were very helpful 
and went out of their way to help me and my office. Since we both have 
and had a strong interest in agriculture, we have cooperated all these 
years. Also, my wife Bea and Mrs. Whitten have been close friends for 
many years.
  Serving with him these many years on the Appropriations Committee has 
been a distinct honor and privilege for me, as I know it has been for a 
number of my colleagues. His thoughtful counsel and wise advice have 
been of inestimable value to me in my own service here. I am most 
appreciative to him for this.
  I join my colleagues in giving the highest praise to our good friend 
and very distinguished colleague from Mississippi, Jamie Whitten. He is 
one whose record of service will always stand.
  His State will certainly miss his service, and our country will miss 
his wise guidance.
  I also join my colleagues in giving him every good wish for the years 
to come.

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