[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 48 (Tuesday, April 16, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S3382]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO RONALD BROWN

  Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Ron 
Brown.
  Ron Brown had a remarkable career, marked by his exceptional ability 
to unify people from diverse backgrounds. As chairman of the Democratic 
National Committee, he used this talent to bring the party's factions 
together. Democrats and Republicans alike spoke with admiration of his 
aptitude as a party leader. Ron Brown's work to bridge differences 
helped revitalize the Democratic party and played an essential role in 
building the support that led to President Clinton's election.
  As Commerce Secretary, Ron Brown also unified individuals from 
different walks of life to work for American business. His aggressive 
efforts traveling the world promoting American goods won him uncommon 
praise from business leaders. It was his enthusiastic devotion to this 
mission of championing trade and economic development that took him to 
Bosnia earlier this month not only to try to build American business, 
but also to aid in the reconstruction of Bosnia. He made the ultimate 
sacrifice for these goals, giving his life in service to his country.
  Ron Brown's career also leaves us with an example of racial 
leadership, having been the first African-American to chair the 
Democratic Party and the first African-American Secretary of Commerce. 
His guidance was apparent in the way he closed divisions within the 
Democratic Party and in the way he brought together diverse individuals 
at the Commerce Department. Ron Brown provided a real life role model 
for aspiring young Americans as someone who rose to the highest levels 
of government, and who was admired and respected by those who knew him 
and knew of his contributions to the well-being of his nation.
  The loss of Ron Brown is tragic to America. His leadership will be 
sorely missed. My deepest condolences go to the Brown family and the 
families of all the other Americans who lost their lives in this 
terrible tragedy.

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