[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 146 (Saturday, October 8, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: October 8, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
             TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE HELEN DELICH BENTLEY

                                 ______


                            HON. JACK FIELDS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 7, 1994

  Mr. FIELDS of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one 
of the most energetic, tenacious, and delightful Members of Congress, 
my good friend, Helen Bentley.
  Since coming to the House in 1984, Helen has been the most outspoken 
advocate of the United States merchant marine since Wesley Jones, the 
father of the maritime Jones Act, served in Congress at the beginning 
of this Century. This House has benefitted immensely from her knowledge 
of America's maritime history and her efforts to preserve our merchant 
marine.
  Helen Bentley has been a staunch defender of our cargo preference 
laws--laws that were passed to support our commercial fleets. This 
diminutive lady from Baltimore has struck fear in the hearts of many 
Federal officials, including a few Admirals and Generals, who had 
failed to honor the letter and spirit of those laws.
  She has proven herself a very able, and persuasive legislator for 
America's maritime industries. More than once, Helen has marched across 
the aisle or across the Capitol to ``discuss'' issues with a Member or 
Senator who had a slightly different view of an issue than she did. 
Quite often after these ``discussions'', legislation proceeded 
representing the views of the gentlelady from Maryland.
  I will personally miss seeing her in action at a Committee meeting or 
on the floor of the House in defense of the merchant marine. That 
spirit--that level of understanding of our Federal laws--that energy 
will be impossible to replace.
  Mr. Speaker, this House is losing one of its most capable 
legislators. Fortunately, Helen has promised she will not be far away.
  I appreciate this opportunity to salute my dear friend and to commend 
her on a truly outstanding legislative career. I wish her God speed.

                          ____________________