[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 136 (Friday, September 27, 1996)]
[House]
[Page H11398]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          FAREWELL REFLECTIONS

  (Mr. JOHNSTON of Florida asked and was given permission to address 
the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. JOHNSTON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, Monday I returned from Rwanda 
and Sudan, and when you are on a plane for 16 hours you have time to 
reflect on your life.
  I have had a variety of jobs during my life: WWII in a PX warehouse, 
later a garbage man, Army for 2 years, law for 35 years, State Senate, 
and now 8 years in Congress.
  Congress has by far been the most exciting and challenging job during 
my life.
  This is a unique job, a tremendous experience. Our authority is 
great--our responsibility is great. This House--this institution--must 
be protected. The Constitution must be protected. We cannot continue to 
look at this document as a loose leaf notebook that we cut and passed.
  I now join the exclusive 10,000 graduates of the body--since the 
inception of the Constitution.
  I am very proud to have been a Member of Congress.
  I bid you farewell and Godspeed.

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