Congressional Record, Volume 143 Issue 13 (Wednesday, February 5, 1997)

[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 13 (Wednesday, February 5, 1997)]
[House]
[Pages H303-H312]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

TRIBUTE TO THE LATE CONGRESSMAN FRANK TEJEDA

The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under the Speaker's announced policy of
January 7, 1997, the gentleman from California [Mr. Becerra] is
recognized for 60 minutes as the designee of the minority leader.
Mr. BECERRA. Mr. Speaker, we have taken out this special order of an
hour for the purpose of trying in the short time that we have to try to
commemorate the life of a friend, of a colleague, of a great American
hero, Frank Tejeda, who passed away but a few days ago in his home in
Texas shortly after having been sworn in to the 105th Congress.
Without further remarks on my part at this stage, I do want to yield
time to someone who was a great friend of Mr. Tejeda, and I want to
acknowledge that Mr. Tejeda's family is here with us today, but I think
it is most fitting that the individual who knew him best, who would sit
right back there every day of a vote with Frank and laugh and do work
and do the business of this country with him should best have the
opportunity to go first in making remarks about our great friend.
Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman
from Texas, Mr. Solomon Ortiz.
Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, first of all, I would like to thank the
gentleman for asking for this special order today in memory of a great
American and a great friend.
Mr. Speaker, I was one of those fortunate Members of Congress who was
able to visit with Frank about 3 weeks before he died and, as we all
know, Frank loved his children. And even before Frank was diagnosed
with this cancer, he was telling me about the heavy schedule and how
important it was for him to attend some of the soccer games that his
boy, Frankie, played. He said this is one of the things I miss the
most, being with my family.
When I visited with Frank this last time again, we talked about the
family and about the marine that he was, how he loved the military. But
at this moment we are very fortunate to have Frank's mother with us in
the gallery, Mrs. Tejeda, Frank's sister, and members of his family, as
they were recognized last night during the President's State of the
Union Message.
For 4 years Frank and I sat together in that same corner listening to
the State of the Union Message and looking forward to seeing what was
in that message that we could dissect and take back to our district and
tell people how we would be able to change their lives, and impact on
their lives something on the positive side.
Frank was a very religious individual. This last year I would ask
Frank to go out with me to attend certain functions, and Frank would
say, I am sorry, I cannot go with you because this is my prayer time. I
have to go to my home and spend time talking to my God and reading my
Bible.
Frank was also kind and forceful and generous and committed to those
he served. After Frank fought for his country, he fought very hard for
veterans, farmers, and Hispanics in Texas and in Washington. Frank was
a wonderful person who died far too soon, too young. He taught us all
how to be better people and he set an example for all of us to live by.
Frank had a quiet

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strength. His decent life spoke volumes about Frank.

{time} 1345

He was very uncomplicated. When he wanted to tell you something, he
was very blunt, but he spoke the truth. At this moment, I would like to
include the rest of my statement for the Record, because I know that
there are many, many friends who would like to take time in this
special order today to honor a great hero, a great friend, Frank
Tejeda.
I thank the gentleman from California [Mr. Becerra], the chairman of
the Hispanic caucus.
Because he was contented, he was unflappable. Frank was also kind,
forceful, generous, and committed to those he served. After he fought
for his country, he fought hard for veterans, farmers, and Hispanics in
Texas and Washington.
Frank was a beautiful man who died far too soon--too young. He taught
us all how to be better people, and he set an example for all of us to
live by.
Frank had a quiet strength. His decent life spoke volumes.
He was uncomplicated--he meant what he said and he said what he
meant. His word was literally his bond.
His story was very much the American story--about the ingenuity and
creativity of one man's rise from obscurity to power.
Frank was an inspiration to me. Frank exemplified the very best in
public service, honesty, and integrity. He was a true leader who
believed in the value and decency of the working class.
He always said he was proud to be a marine grunt--he didn't want it
any other way. That same ideal moved him to work hard all his life and
to stick up for the working people he represented so well. Frank always
approached problems with commonsense solutions and an engaging sense of
humor.
This Chamber still feels empty without Frank--yet I know that Frank
is watching us now and telling someone we are making too big a deal
over him. For that was Frank--simple, low-keyed, and focused.

Frank showed enormous grace and courage over the past year while
dealing with the pressures of cancer and chemotherapy. As always, the
highly decorated and respected marine fought the valiant fight.
He was such a disciplinarian--with his professional life, with his
personal ethics, and with his physical health. I greatly admired him--
as did many Texans. Frank Tejeda was one of the best friends I ever
had.
We need to remember Frank's children--Marissa; Sonya; and Frank III--
and his mother Lillie during this difficult time. His mother was here
with us last night, honored by President Clinton as an American hero in
Frank's stead.
We should also remember his sister Mary Alice Lara--who accompanied
their mother last night--and his brothers--Juan Tejeda, Ernest Tejeda,
and Richard Tejeda in our prayers.
Frank Tejeda was a giant among men, and among leaders.
Frankie--I love you brother. You leave us a beautiful memory. We will
all miss you, but we will cherish your memory.
I thank the gentleman from California for sponsoring this special
order.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank the gentleman for his remarks and I think he is
right, he probably could speak longer on this than anyone, about Frank,
I know he would love to, but at this point I yield to the dean of the
Texas delegation, someone who has been a fighter for Texas for some
time, I know Frank spoke of him with great regard, that is the
gentleman from Texas [Mr. Gonzalez].
Mr. GONZALEZ. I thank the gentleman from California [Mr. Becerra] for
yielding.
Mr. Speaker, it is very unnerving and soul shaking to consider that
such a young and promising life was cut so short and, therefore,
deprived us and this House of what unquestionably would be great
contributions.
I have watched the course of this great man in Congress, as a fellow
Congressman, as he developed and being very familiar and intimately
acquainted particularly with that section of our city in which he grew
up and to which I have an undying and unbreakable attachment, since I
myself am a native son and actually born at a time when San Antonio was
a lot smaller, and that part of the city in which Frank developed and
grew was not there. So it is very difficult to find words with which to
express completely and fully the dimensions of an individual such as
the Congressman who from very humble and unpretentious origins and
beginnings reached the pinnacle of political achievement by dint of
character and sacrifice. He of course proved himself in the field as a
full-fledged member of the Marine Corps. It was my privilege to be
identified with that particular section of the city when it was not
part of the city. I am a native of San Antonio, and what we call Bexar
County and the city is of such a proportion today that it is difficult
for me to evoke the size and the aspect of the city at the time. I want
to thank my colleague for pausing and taking time in order to recognize
a great man.

Mr. Speaker, I want once again to offer a few words of praise and
tribute in honor of my late friend and colleague, Frank Tejeda.
As so many of my colleagues--and indeed the President of the United
States--have remarked here in the House and elsewhere, Frank Tejeda was
a brave and remarkable man. He started with little, but soon found
direction, and when he did, proved his talent and mettle. He went a
very long way in a very short time.
Frank died too soon, and I am sure that he knew how long the odds
were against surviving the tumor that killed him. But he never
complained, never faltered, never felt sorry for himself or asked
anyone to pity him--he went right on doing the best he could, to serve
his district and this House in an exemplary way. There was not a day,
not an hour, that he did not give his best--and that was very good
indeed. The people of his district, the Members of the House, were well
served by Frank Tejeda.
Frank went from high school dropout to decorated marine, and from
there to the best schools in the Nation. His accomplishments were
remarkable, undeniable--and probably unexpected by those who saw him as
a restless adolescent. Frank was a quiet man. Proud as he was, and he
was very proud, he never let his accomplishments balloon into egotism.
He just hung the medals up, and alongside them the diplomas, and went
on about his quiet and extremely effective service to the people of his
community and district.
Frank always had the time to help a friend or a neighbor. And if he
did not have the money to help out, he'd get it somewhere, even if that
meant taking on a bank loan. But typically, he never would tell anyone
about the sacrifices that he was making.
High or low, rich or poor, powerful or weak--everyone who came in
contact with Frank Tejeda was treated with unfailing courtesy and
respect. He was that kind of man.
He was a man of integrity and decency. Frank Tejeda lived with honor,
served with honor, and brought honor to all of us.
I will miss Frank. All of us will. I hope, as I said yesterday, that
all of us will learn from knowing him, and that all of us will remember
him by living as he did, with grit and grace, decency and honor,
generosity and compassion, energy and determination.
Frank Tejeda lived well and served well. With profound regret and
sorrow, I say farewell to Frank--but will never say farewell to his
memory.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank the gentleman for his remarks.
Let me now turn to another colleague from Texas, Mr. Reyes, a
gentleman whom Frank respected a great deal. We are looking forward to
working with him as a new Member.
Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise this afternoon to join my colleagues
in recognizing the many contributions that our esteemed colleague and
my good friend Congressman Frank Tejeda, made to this great
institution, our great Nation, and in particular the people of Texas
and the 28th District.
Much has already been said about Frank and his influence on the lives
of those he touched, but I rise this afternoon as one more testimony of
what will be his legacy, a legacy that will ensure that the memory of
Frank Tejeda will live forever in the hearts of all of us.
Frank was a man of extraordinary character and integrity. Frank
understood what was required of public service. At a time when some
Americans are wondering about and sometimes questioning those that seek
and aspire to public service, we have been left with the legacy of a
devoted father, a selfless public servant, and an honorable man to
reassure us that America can and still provides us with those that seek
no other measure than to serve with dignity and simply aspire to do
what is right and just.
Frank Tejeda was an example of what is right and noble. But more than
that, Frank will forever live in the hearts of his people, in the
hearts of all people, for he was a man of the people. In death, as in
life, he stirred within his people a dignified and moving tribute for
all of us to see last Monday as

[[Page H305]]

whole neighborhoods of San Antonio turned out to show respect and
farewell. It was a sight that will never and must never be forgotten.
It is the ultimate tribute that a grateful community gives a warrior
statesman. It was fitting and proper and, to use Frank's own words, it
was the right thing to do. Straightforward, honest, respectful,
dutiful, and courageous, Congressman Frank Tejeda fue un hombre entre
hombres, a man among men, and he will be missed but he will never be
forgotten.
God blessed us all with Frank and now it is up to us to keep his
legacy alive and thriving within this great place, with great
responsibilities to this great Nation.
I thank the gentleman for this opportunity.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank the gentleman for his remarks.
Mr. Speaker, another colleague who will serve this institution so
well is another gentleman from Texas [Mr. Jim Turner].
Mr. TURNER. I thank the gentleman from California [Mr. Becerra] for
yielding.
Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to stand and speak in the
memory of our dear friend Frank Tejeda. Frank Tejeda served not only in
this body, ably and with distinction but he also served as a member of
the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate where I had the
pleasure of serving by his side. I can say without question, Frank
Tejeda was a man who stood firmly for principle, a man who voted his
conscience irrespective of the pressure that may come to bear. He was a
man who believed very firmly that truth was more important than any
other virtue, and he was a man who believed very firmly that when
something needed to be done, he was going to be there and be counted.
Frank Tejeda grew up in south San Antonio. He did not graduate from
high school but he went into the Marine Corps. It changed his life, and
he from that point on achieved great heights academically.
He served the people of south side San Antonio and the other counties
in his congressional and Senate and House districts with great
distinction. As I sat next to him on the floor of the Texas Senate on
one occasion, I noted Frank was rather quiet and yet as I began to hear
the particular debate, I began to realize that Frank was ready to
speak. And when Frank rose to speak, everyone listened, because you
knew when Frank Tejeda spoke, it was worth listening to. We will miss
Frank Tejeda. He was a great Texan, a great American, and a great
friend to all of us.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank the gentleman for his words.
Let me now ask another colleague from the great State of Texas and a
great friend of mine, Mr. Gene Green, for his remarks.
Mr. GREEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California [Mr.
Becerra] for allowing me a few minutes to discuss my friendship with
Frank Tejeda. Like my colleague from Texas, Jim Turner, we served with
Frank in the House and the Senate and now in Congress. I grew to admire
him as a man who was committed to the highest ideals and actions.
Almost 2 years ago, I remember when Frank became ill, I prayed to God
that he would be healed, and the Lord let us have Frank until last
Thursday night. He was a man of integrity and honor and commitment and
service. He was a great man who gave of himself, selflessly to others,
whether it be serving his community as an elected official or to the
children of south San Antonio in organizing and helping in little
league games, baseball, football, you name it. Again, my colleague from
El Paso talked about earlier this week when we saw the thousands of
people who gathered along the roadways to pay tribute to Frank Tejeda,
who came from their neighborhood and did so much good.
I was so impressed with Frank when I first met him, he was so proud
to be a marine. He was a role model for other marines. In fact, I did
not know until much later that Frank had received the highest academic
average in the Marine Corps history in officer candidate school. Frank
even took it a step further when he won the Colonel Phil Yekel award
which combined his skills academically with his natural leadership
ability and his extraordinary physical fitness. His pride in the
Marines and military translated into his work as a legislator, both
here and in Austin, TX, whether it be serving veterans as a State
legislator or State Senator in securing funds for an outpatient clinic
in San Antonio or for a public health clinic in Duval County. He was a
firm believer in military-civilian cooperation. He sponsored
legislation to train physicians assistants at Fort Sam Houston. He
helped expand the GI bill for educational benefits for service
personnel and certified teaching. Frank touched so many people, Mr.
Speaker. We will miss him, not just the people of San Antonio and the
people of Texas but the people of the House. Frank Tejeda's commitment
to this institution, his country and to its people should be an example
we all should live by. Frank, we will miss you.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank the gentleman for his remarks.
Another colleague from Texas and I think it is clear the respect of
the Members from Texas for Frank Tejeda as they come here to express
themselves, I would like to invite another gentleman who just got
elected and will serve us well in this Congress, Mr. Ruben Hinojosa, to
please add his remarks.
Mr. HINOJOSA. I thank the gentleman from California [Mr. Becerra] for
yielding.
Last night in President Clinton's State of the Union speech, he paid
special tribute to the Honorable Frank Tejeda. He mentioned and
recognized Frank's mother Lillie and his sister and relatives who
attended. They are here this afternoon. And so it is with great
pleasure, it is with great honor that I too come to join my fellow
colleagues in expressing our feelings and support of the bill just
passed today which is going to name a post office in San Antonio the
Frank Tejeda Post Office.
There are many things about Frank Tejeda that stand out in my mind.
One is that he was the son of Mexican immigrants. Two, that he was a
first generation south Texan, and very proud of that. He was proud to
be an Hispanic leader from Texas and to be here in Washington
representing his constituents. From San Antonio all the way down to
south Texas, in Zapata, in Roma, in Rio Grande City, a district that
borders with mine and thus we create a very special friendship. I had a
lot of respect for Frank, and I had looked forward so much to working
with him.
Frank was proud to have ascended, to have become a national leader.
For that, he will always serve as a role model for many Hispanics
throughout the State of Texas and other parts of the country.
This afternoon, I attended a meeting with Secretary of the Navy John
Dalton. He too paid tribute to Congressman Tejeda. He spoke of this
great American hero, a gentleman who distinguished himself in so many
ways. I know that those of us who are sitting here this afternoon are
going to be joining a very large number of individuals who want to pay
respects and honor Frank Tejeda.
Mr. BECERRA. Let me now recognize a colleague of mine from the State
of California, a friend and someone whom I know knew Frank well and
respected him, Mr. Duke Cunningham.
Mr. CUNNINGHAM. I thank my friend for yielding. I know the Texas
delegation got together, which is very responsible, to offer this for
Frank Tejeda. I want you to know it is not just the State of Texas that
grieves, that this Nation has lost a favorite son, that when this
country asked Frank to serve, he went and he served in Vietnam and did
very well there. I want to also tell you that even when he was
diagnosed with cancer, Frank never gave up hope.
I know one time I had learned and I tried to break the ice a little
bit with him, and I said, Frank, you know that being a Navy guy, that
we own the Marine Corps and that if he did not believe it, to check the
front side of his paycheck. It is signed Department of the Navy.

{time} 1400

Frank reminded me with the humor of the time and says, ``Duke, that's
because the Marine Corps has protected the Navy throughout history, and
you owe us that.''

[[Page H306]]

But he was a man of integrity and even though that with the issues
sometimes we disagreed, Frank was well respected on this side of the
aisle as well as that side of the aisle, and I would ask, Mr. Speaker,
that when our children look for heroes or role models that someone that
was as dedicated to family as Frank Tejeda, someone who was as
dedicated to this Nation in serving as Frank Tejeda, has strong faith
in God and his country, I cannot think of a stronger role model for my
children or anyone else's.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank the gentleman who knows a little bit about what
it means to be a member of the military for his kind words toward
Frank.
Let me now ask another fine gentleman and distinguished Member of
this House from the State of Texas to come forward, and that is the
gentleman by the name of Ken Bentsen.
Mr. BENTSEN. I thank the gentleman from California for yielding, and
I join my colleagues in grieving the loss of our colleague from Texas,
Frank Tejeda. I have to say I did not know Frank until I was elected to
the 104th Congress, but I often drove through the lower part of his
district in Starr County, where part of my family resides, and I saw
Frank's signs down there, and he was one of the only people I have ever
known who could run for office and never be opposed from either party
or in either primary, and I have to say as I got to know him I came to
understand why.
I have never met anybody who did not like Frank Tejeda, who was not
proud of what Frank Tejeda had accomplished, and while the service the
other day in San Antonio was quite sad, I was moved by what Bishop
Yanta said in the homily when he said that we are sad that Frank is
gone, but he has gone to a better place and we should celebrate what he
did in his life here.
And you look at many resumes in this job and you hear many people
testify and you meet many of us who were in this body who have very
interesting backgrounds, very distinguished backgrounds, but I do not
know if we have had anybody in quite some time who had the
distinguished background of Frank.
I had the occasion to talk with one of our former Members, Sonny
Montgomery, a very respected member of the military who served in this
body, who told me the day after Frank's passing that he in fact--Frank
in fact had been the most decorated Member serving in the Congress in
these last few years.
And so I think it is a great loss for us, but I also have to say what
a tribute and what a celebration as we left St. Leo's in the south side
of San Antonio to see the people lined up on the street holding up the
signs saying: ``We will miss you, Frank''. He is truly a dedicated--was
truly a dedicated individual who cared about his constituents, who
cared about his country, who cared about his family, and we are all
better for having the chance to have known him and worked with him and
we will miss him.
I thank the gentleman for yielding.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank the gentleman from Texas for his words, and it
is absolutely true. Those of us who had the opportunity to be at the
memorial service saw just this throng of people outside trying to send
a wish to Frank, and that perhaps was one of the most moving things
that I saw in my trip to Texas.
Let me now yield to a very distinguished Member from Texas as well
and a good friend, Mr. Chet Edwards.
Mr. EDWARDS. I thank the gentleman.
Mr. Speaker, in this House our Members are often judged by what they
have accomplished in life, and on that basis Frank Tejeda would be
judged very well because he made a difference for his State, for his
country and for his beloved constituents in south Texas.
But the thing for which I will always remember and respect Frank
Tejeda is not his list of accomplishments, though many and impressive,
but the character of the individual. He is what I would have to believe
every father and every mother would hope their child would grow up to
be, and as a father of a small 1-year-old son, I could think of no
greater satisfaction in my life, far beyond anything I could do in this
body that would bring me pleasure, than to think that my son would some
day have the character and integrity, the decency and the honesty and
the compassion of Frank Tejeda.
Several years ago I met a young 9-year-old Hispanic girl who was also
fighting a fight against cancer. She was trying to get help, to get
care in a hospital and was not sure that she would win that fight for
her life. She sent me a card that I think is appropriate for Frank
Tejeda at this moment, a card that I will never forget, and what it
said was this:
``When we leave this world we leave behind all that we have, that we
carry with us all that we have given.''
I am confident, Mr. Speaker, that on his journey to heaven Frank
Tejeda carried much with him for he gave so much here on Earth to his
country, to his family and his beloved friends of south Texas.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank the gentleman for his remarks.
Let me now ask a distinguished friend and colleague of the House who
has served so very well representing veterans for so long, the
gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Evans].
Mr. EVANS. I appreciate the gentleman for yielding.
At the end of World War II, General Patton, while eulogizing our
American war dead, reminded our grieving Nation that it is foolish and
wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather, we should thank God that such
men lived. And those words sustain us as we remember our colleague
Frank Tejeda today. Rather than mourning his too early death, let us
thank God for his life, let us thank God that we had the opportunity to
work with him and let us thank God that we had the privilege to know
him.
Frank was a favorite in this House of Representatives. He was a
friendly, decent, kind, and quiet man. His participation in a hearing
or meeting guaranteed civility and tolerance. When he spoke others
listened. I firmly believe that his notable courtesy and obvious
concern and regard for the views of others was the result of a lifetime
of challenges that he faced as a young man growing up in San Antonio,
as a highly decorated Marine veteran of Vietnam, as a student at three
of our country's most highly respected institutions of higher
education, University of California, Harvard, and Yale.
As a fellow member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I
know that Frank's thoughtful and informed comments and constructive
participation were well regarded. He was among the first to sound the
alarm concerning gulf veterans' problems. He championed improvements in
the GI bill. He fought to ensure that many veterans living in San
Antonio were well cared for and taken care of at the Audie Murphy
Hospital in San Antonio.
I was also privileged to serve with him on the Committee on National
Security, where his faithful and effective participation demonstrated
his commitment to the members of our Armed Forces and to a strong
national defense.
We all considered Frank to be a good friend and colleague. Our
admiration grew, however, into a real sense of awe as we watched him
literally wage the battle of his life, a fight that he carried on with
enormous courage and dignity. None of us will ever forget the Honorable
Frank Tejeda or the special grace with which he lived his life.
Our deepest sympathy goes to his family, his loyal and devoted staff,
and the residents of the 28th Congressional District of Texas, who
Frank so ably represented here in Congress. Please let us know what we
in this House can do in any way to help you during the difficult months
ahead. Let us all thank God for the life of Frank Tejeda.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank the gentleman for his remarks.
Let me now ask the gentleman who has served this country in the
military and is now serving his country just as ably here in Congress,
a good friend, the gentleman from Pennsylvania, Mr. Paul McHale.
Mr. McHALE. I thank the gentleman.
Mr. Speaker, I recall with respect and affection my friend,
colleague, and fellow marine, Frank Tejeda. Two years ago Frank stood
at this very microphone and gave a special order commemorating the
courage of those

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marines who fought for and died in pursuit of the capture of Iwo Jima.
Unbeknownst to Frank that evening, watching on C-SPAN was a former Navy
corpsman who called Frank the next day. He was unaware that Frank had
survived war wounds received in Vietnam. That corpsman was in fact the
doc who had provided aid to Frank on the battlefield and placed him
aboard the helicopter when he was medivac'd. That chance appearance of
Frank on C-SPAN and the awareness of that Navy corpsman set in process
a series of events that resulted in Frank receiving posthumously the
Silver Star.
Among other events that day on the battlefield in Vietnam, Frank had
gone out into a rice paddy under fire, had attacked an enemy position,
had killed the enemy gunner and had pulled back into a tree line, at
which point he saw the body of a marine in the rice paddy. Again under
fire he went out to that marine, recovered the body and brought the
body back to safety. Frank in this Chamber later said to me, ``Paul,
that wasn't courage. I simply remembered what they taught me at
Quantico.''
That was courage, and like Frank's intelligence, his decency, his
bravery was such an inherent part of his character he did not think it
was special. But we who served with Frank know just how special he was.
In a line that is delivered by marines with a sense of humor, but one
that I think appropriate today, the closing stanzas of the Marine Hymn
talks about the streets of heaven being guarded by U.S. marines. Mr.
Speaker, they now have a new commanding officer: Maj. Frank Tejeda,
U.S. Marine Corps.
Semper fidelis Frank.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania, [Mr. McHale]
for his remarks.
Let me now ask a colleague from California, a friend, someone who
also knew Frank well, the gentleman from southern California [Mr.
Matthew Martinez], to come forward to make some remarks.
Mr. MARTINEZ. Thank you, Mr. Becerra.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of my friend Frank Tejeda. I met
him for the first time right back here in the back of the Chamber
sitting with Solomon Ortiz and I think it became almost a routine thing
that when we came down to the House to vote we would spend a few
minutes visiting with one another. Although I only knew him for a short
time and many of us only knew him for the 4 years that he was here in
Congress, if you knew him one day though, you really knew him because
he was exactly as he seemed to be, a real nice guy, and beyond that he
was a great American and a great patriot, and I do not say that just
because he was a fellow marine but because he proved it. He proved it
every day of his life the way he acted with himself, his family, his
constituents, and especially the way he proved it when he was a marine.
The true test of a man's character I think is many times tested under
stress and the greatest proving ground of all I believe is war or
battle, and Frank was tested in that manner and he proved that he was a
hero. But Frank was not just a Vietnam hero; he was a hero to his
family as well and to all those who knew him.
Many of you have heard the things that my colleagues have said about
him, his charitable acts, his acts of concern for his constituency as
he dealt with the huge bureaucracy we call the U.S. Government, and
many of us spoke of it in our eulogy to him. But there are three short
statements that were written in the book that was issued to commemorate
his memorial, and they were from his children, and I would like to
include those for the Record, along with a ledger of his longstanding
accomplishments, many of which you have already heard and many of which
you will hear from other Members who love them as much as we do.
But one particular of the three that his children wrote was written
by his daughter Marissa, and I would like to share that with you. It
really came from her heart, and it is a true sentiment of how she felt
about Frank and I think that many of the people that knew him felt
about him too. It says:

Loving Thoughts From His Children

You are a celebrity to me . . . I've watched you grow all
these years with me, almost as if you were a big star
on the screen . . . I've watched you give to others--
this taught me the gift of giving.

I've watched you make your dreams come true--
This taught me to believe in dreams. I've watched you play my
fan at my softball and soccer games--This taught me to
find courage and self-worth.

I watched you play my teacher--This taught me the meaning of
moral gratification and education.
I watched you play my DAD--when you loved me unconditionally
and supported me with all your faith--This taught me
the magic in love and the ability to bring life to
others.

And I watched you as you played my friend--every day, when
you talked to me, cried with me and laughed with me . .
. You were a star to me, I was your biggest fan.--
Love,
Marissa.

Dad, I love you more than words can say. You have always
been my inspriration and my will to strive for the best. No
matter how hard or how long the battle was, you still came
out a winner and that is how I will always remember you. You
are my hero, my shining star, MY EVERYTHING. I know God is
taking care of you and you are still protecting us like
always. You have been set free, but you will never leave my
heart. Dad, I miss you already, but there is no comparison to
where you are right now. I love you dearly and may the
eternal light shine on you forever.
Love,
Sonya.

Dad, You have been the greatest inspiration and role model
in my life. You have taught me morals and values that anyone
can teach, but the way you taught me made me admire you and
love you the way I do. I miss you and I love you more than
words can say. You will always be with me no matter where I
am. I love you, dad.
Love,
Frank M. Tejeda, III.

His Life

A native Texan, Frank M. Tejeda, was born in Southside San
Antonio on October 2, 1945. He was the son of Lillie Tejeda
and the late Frank M. Tejeda, Sr.
Frank attended St. Leo's Catholic School and Harlandale
High School. He volunteered for the United States Marine
Corps, where he earned the Bronze Star for valor, and
received the Purple Heart for wounds sustained in combat. At
the Marine Corps Officers Candidate School, his 99.08 percent
overall average ranked the highest at the time. He received
the Commandant's Trophy, the Marine Corps Association Award
for the highest academic average in Marine Corps history at
the time (99.6 percent), and the Colonel Phil Yeckel Award
for the best combined record in leadership, academics, and
physical fitness.
Frank graduated from St. Mary's University with a Bachelor
of Arts in Government; at the University of California at
Berkeley School of Law, he earned a Juris Doctorate; at
Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government, he earned
a Master in Public Administration; and at Yale University
School of Law, he earned a Master of Laws.
Frank began his professional career as an attorney at law.
He served as a State Representative in the Texas House of
Representatives from 1977 to 1987. He was elected to the
Texas Senate, serving from 1987 to 1993. In 1992, he was
elected to the United States House of Representatives and
served in Congress from 1993 to 1997.
Frank M. Tejeda was a devoted public servant who dedicated
his entire life to making Southside San Antonio, the greater
San Antonio-Bexar County metropolitan area, his South Texas
congressional district, and the nation a better place for all
to live. Education, youth athletics, civil rights, and
veterans service organizations have honored Frank's service
to the community. His extraordinary life will be a lasting
inspiration to us all.

His Legislative Accomplishments

During the 103rd Congress, Congressman Frank M. Tejeda
supported a strong national defense, community and economic
development, expanded educational opportunities, crime
control and enhanced veterans benefits. He advocated
community participation. He was an outspoken supporter of
local military bases and brought millions in additional
federal funding for building construction and base
maintenance. He strongly spoke in their favor during the 1993
and 1995 base closure deliberations.
To assist those who risked their lives for our nation,
Frank introduced and helped pass legislation to expand
veterans' educational benefits. He sought to expand
health care access for veterans and others in Southern
Bexar and surrounding counties. A believer in military-
civilian cooperation, he sponsored and helped pass
legislation to expand a program for training physician
assistants at Fort Sam Houston and the University of Texas
Health Science Center. He introduced a bill to expand the
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery to continue our
tradition of honoring those who served their country.
Congress incorporated it into legislation that was signed
into law by President Clinton.

[[Page H308]]

Congressman Frank M. Tejeda was concerned about the health
and safety of the communities he represented in Congress.
During his district work periods, he worked with local
elected officials and community leaders to secure crucial
federal funding for many worthwhile projects. A few of these
projects included securing funding for the construction of a
new VA Outpatient Clinic in Southeast San Antonio, securing
additional funding for a public health clinic in Duval
County, and the construction of numerous clean water and
sanitary sewer systems. Alarmed by the contamination of soil
at the San Antonio Alamodome site, he called upon the
Environmental Protection Agency for assistance and he formed
a special committee of community leaders and representatives
to identify solutions. His concern for the small farmer and
rancher was demonstrated through his efforts to provide
assistance for agricultural producers. Frank promoted and
worked for the preservation of the historical landmarks and
natural resources in San Antonio, and he secured federal
funding for the construction of the National Park Services
Mission San Jose Visitor Center.
During the 104th Congress, Congressman Frank M. Tejeda
focused his attention on the specific needs of veterans,
farmers and ranchers, and communities without access to
potable water. He achieved these goals through legislation
signed into law, grants for drought relief, and funds to add
or improve water infrastructure in underserved communities in
the 28th Congressional District of Texas.
Frank successfully achieved congressional approval of
legislation to permanently expand GI bill education benefits
for veterans pursuing teaching certificates through state-
approved alternative certification programs. VA education
benefits were limited to certification programs affiliated
with colleges and universities, and excluded certification
programs administered by a regional service center or large
school district. His legislation eliminated that barrier so
veterans could consider the transition to the teaching
profession upon their discharge from the military.
Veterans' access to health care is a high priority to
Congress Frank M. Tejeda, who worked closely with Department
of Veterans Affairs Secretary Jesse Brown to open an
outpatient medical care clinic in Southern Bexar County. The
clinic, which broke ground on December 8, 1995, will provide
access to service to the more than 67,000 veterans who live
in Bexar, Atascosa, Frio, and Wilson Counties. This expansion
of VA medical care in South Texas is made possible by savings
generated from the consolidation of duplicative
administrative and other functions at Audie L. Murphy
Memorial Veterans Hospital and the Kerrville VA medical
facility, one of 16 nationwide management integrations to
enhance medical services to veterans and reduce
administrative costs.
The prolonged drought in South Texas severely affected
South Texas farmers and ranchers. Frank worked tenaciously to
get the USDA to expedite primary emergency disaster area
designations for most countries in his South Texas
congressional district. In an unprecedented move USDA
Secretary Dan Glickman acted on Frank's recommendation to
separate Starr County's completed request for a disaster
declaration, along with three other countries, from a group
of 13 applications submitted by Texas Governor George Bush.
Frank emphasized that ``* * * the policy of holding up one
county's disaster declaration until all applications are
complete leads to unfair and unnecessary delay. Each county
should be considered as soon as possible on the merits of its
application without regard to the status of other countries
submitted by a state governor at the same time.'' Secretary
Glickman concurred and signed Starr County's designation to
receive primary disaster for loses caused by drought and high
winds.
Congressman Frank M. Tejeda also garnered $1.3 million out
of $9 million in unused USDA disaster assistance funds to
help South Texas cope with sustained drought. Four South
Texas water projects in Frio, Jim Hogg, and Zapata Counties
received a share of the unused funds to improve their
respective water infrastructure projects.

his legacy

A position Frank valued more than any other elected office
or seat he ever held was that of being father to his three
children--two daughters, Marissa and Sonya, and a son, Frank
II (whom he affectionately called Frankie). Although his
duties in public office took him away from his children
frequently, he made it a point to spend time with them when
he was home. He enjoyed sharing the news of their
accomplishments and endeavors with others. He was especially
fond of watching his son play soccer.
He leaves, to cherish his memory, his three beloved
children; their mother, Celia Tejeda; his mother, Lillie
Tejeda; a sister, Mary Alice Lara; three brothers, Juan
Tejeda, Ernest Tejeda, and Richard Tejeda, all of San
Antonio. In addition, he has a host of aunts, uncles, nieces,
nephews, cousins, and other relatives. Frank M. Tejeda will
be missed greatly by his many friends, honored past and
current legislative colleagues, his fellow Marines, his
faithful constituents, and his loyal and dedicated staff.

The warmth of Frank's memory leaves me with a great deal of comfort,
but his loss I think leaves us all with a painful void.
Frank, I don't say goodbye to you this day, but as a friend and a
fellow marine veteran I simply say semper fi. May your spirit live on
forever, and I know it will.

{time} 1415

I thank my friend for his remarks.
Let me now yield to someone who knew Frank well, who happens to be
the chairman of the Subcommittee on Military Procurement of the
Committee on National Security, someone who also has a long and
distinguished career, not just in the House of Representatives, but in
serving this country in the military, a friend of all of ours, the
gentleman from California [Mr. Hunter].
Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend for those gracious words.
But when I compare my brief career in the military in which I went to
Vietnam, and basically the best thing that could be said about me was I
showed up, when you compare that with Frank Tejeda, who showed such
tremendous leadership, it pales by comparison.
I want to thank my friend for taking out this special order and all
of my friends who spoke. I came from an appointment in my office. I did
not get to listen to everybody, but I know what you said, because we
all knew Frank. And I know many people have talked about his wonderful
accomplishments. But it occurs to me, probably Frank Tejeda's value to
all of us and his greatness was reflected probably not in what he did,
because a lot of lesser Members of Congress have done some things
legislatively, but Frank's greatness I think was in what he was.
I reflected back on my times in the service and my time, my service
here on the Hill. And over your life, you have certain times when you
have a group of people about you when you are working for a common
cause when you have a sense of community, a sense of brotherhood, a
sense of friendship that is very gratifying. And that is the sense that
I always had when I worked with Frank Tejeda, because that is what he
inspired.
I am reminded that I guess it was Alexis de Tocqueville who in
analyzing what made the United States so unusual, is a historian of
several hundreds of years ago, finally came to the conclusion that
America was great. He said America is good because our people are good
and because we have certain people who are just extraordinary.
Frank Tejeda was one of those good people. He was a person who was so
devoid of prejudice or unfairness or ego, a problem which I think
affects all of us at one time or another, that you could always count
on him for a good decision. He was an honest broker that people could
go to, that they could look to, and what a role model for us in these
difficult times when we get a little bit partisan.
I have always enjoyed being partisan and the battles we have had on
the House floor and in committee, and sometimes we get a little heated.
And you know I am glad that my good friend, the gentleman from North
Carolina [Mr. Coble], is in the chair right now. He is one of those
people that has a little bit of Frank Tejeda quality that sometimes
when we are a little bit heated and when we step over the line a little
bit, perhaps become a little bit personal. It would not be bad for us
to always remember Frank, a guy who I think it was Silveriuz who said
that still waters run deep. What a deep person, what a person who was
often still, but so valuable to this body and to us as Members. I would
hope that we could follow Frank's example and remember the great modern
American portrait role model that Frank was.
One thing about Vietnam was that this era of Vietnam did not
produce--and I think probably with the help of the American media--did
not produce many role models, because the Vietnam war was an unpopular
war for the American media and there are not a lot of leaders who were
given a lot of publicity. Frank in his quiet way was perhaps one of the
greatest role models to come from the Vietnam era. Frank was a man who
could have carried a national office with great dignity and with great
expertise and capability.
So I thank my friend for allowing me to take a little bit of this
time, and I thank all of my friends who talked about Frank. Let us all
work in his example and in the great light that he

[[Page H309]]

shed over this body, which I hope will continue to illuminate us in his
memory.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank my colleague from California for his words.
Let me now turn to a good friend and a distinguished Member of this
body, the Representative from American Samoa [Mr. Faleomavaega].
Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I too would like to join my good
friend from California for his kind remarks made about our great friend
and colleague, Congressman Frank Tejeda. I remember Frank once saying
that he was just a grunt. As a Vietnam veteran, I would like to join my
friend from California in saying we were just grunts compared to
Frank's accomplishments and certainly for his value and bravery for
which he was awarded the Silver Star, the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star
and the Marine Commandant's Trophy, the Marine Corps Association Award,
and the Colonel Phil Yeckel Award for the best combined record in
leadership, academics, and physical fitness during the time which he
was in Officer's Candidate School, where he maintained an academic
average in the 99.6 percentile, the highest ever recorded in Marine
Corps history.
Mr. Speaker, Congressman Tejeda was a warrior and a true hero of our
Nation. Because of his tenacity, because of his leadership, and because
of his generosity, and because he never forgot where he came from,
Congressman Tejeda was loved and respected by the people he served.
One of his constituents said of him, and I quote:

Even though he spent many years in Washington, his heart
was always in San Antonio. He was a community man.
Congressman Tejeda never lost touch with the family, friends
and constituents who worked on behalf of his political
success. He continued to make a home in the neighborhood
where he grew up.

He was generous with everyone, generous with his time and generous
with his talents. There are countless stories of how he took money from
his own pocket to provide uniforms for local baseball teams, how he
cosigned notes to pay power bills so that the lights could remain on at
the field, how he took out loans to meet medical expenses for his
friends, how he bought the furniture for the day care center at the
local church.
Mr. Speaker, the list of his good deeds goes on and on. His
generosity of spirit is well known. He was a mentor to many young
people. He has gained political stature. He had made sure he helped
young, aspiring leaders. He opened up windows of opportunity. As Under
Secretary of the Army, Joe Reeder said of him, and I quote: He was a
great role model, a great advocate for Hispanics, and a great advocate
for veterans.
The gentleman from Texas [Mr. Bonilla] concurred by adding this
remark, and I quote: Frank Tejeda represented all that is good about
America. He always led by example, and his character, dignity inspired
all who met him. He was a genuine American hero, Mr. Speaker.
Our good friend and a dean from the Texas delegation, the gentleman
from Texas [Mr. Gonzalez], members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus
and chairman, my good friend and colleague, the gentleman from
California [Mr. Becerra], the gentleman from Texas [Mr. Ortiz], Henry
Cisneros, and many other distinguished leaders have all spoken of a
great loss, both personal and communal, because of this untimely death.
The Hispanic community has lost a great man, Mr. Speaker, a great
leader and a great warrior. As former HUD Secretary Henry Cisneros
said, and I quote: You do not find many public officials who stand for
anything. Frank Tejeda took stands, end of quote.
Whether we remember the war hero, the antipoverty activist, the
brilliant attorney, the crusading State legislator and the dedicated
U.S. Congressman, Mr. Speaker, the role model for our youth, the
compassionate and general member of the community, the fighter for
justice and equality, the good friend whose personal warmth was always
evident, and of any of the other remarkable aspects of this man, we all
mourn his loss.
So, Mr. Speaker, we mourn the loss to Texas, the loss to the Hispanic
community, the loss finally to all of America. We will all miss the
presence and the leadership of my good friend and colleague, the late
Congressman, Frank Tejeda.
Mr. BECERRA. I thank my friend for his kind remarks.
Members of the Tejeda family, mother Lillie; children
Marissa, Sonya, Frank, III; Members of the US Congress;
Governor; Colleagues of the Tex. Legisl. Distinguished
guests, friends. It is a great honor to be able to speak
about Frank M. Tejeda, Jr.
Frank Mariano Tejeda, Jr. was born to loving parents Frank
and Lillie Tejeda Oct. 2, 1945, on his dad's birthday. He was
born at 708 Pleasanton Road, on the south side of San
Antonio.
A baby boomer, born to a WWII disabled combat veteran, and
his wife. From his dad and his loving mom, Frank learned an
intense love of service to his country, his community. Since
childhood Frank's dream was military service, as his dad had
done before him.
His parents were loving and very involved in his
upbringing. Guiding him in his faith and his daily living.
His mom Lillie was and till his death continued to be the
heart and hearth of the family. His dad taught Frank about
the love of country, about discipline, about loving the land
and by example, Frank's dad and mom taught Frank
determination, and self-sacrifice.
Frank's mother and dad were by Frank's side, teaching,
guiding and reinforcing the values of love of family, respect
of self and of others, dedication to God, family and country.
The Tejedas sacrificed and sent Frank, Jr. to St. Leo
Catholic grade school (the very school across the street) to
be followed by his sister Mary Alice, and brothers Juan,
Ernest and Richard. A natural leader, he was respected and
admired by his classmates and the teachers. Back in the ``old
days'' the teachers were mostly nuns.
Frank was developing his strong spirit and character. He
was bright and he did well in his studies; yet, he also
managed to get into mischief. He was not allowed to attend
the eighth grade picnic because he had lead a group of
students who showered the hallways with the fire
extinguishers during an evening PTA meeting.
Frank was raised by his father to love the outdoors, and
the military. The home on Pleasanton Road had pens for the
dogs that ``Big Frank'' raised for hunting. Frank, Jr.
learned about caring for the animals that they raised.
Responsibility and love of the outdoors were among the values
he learned.
Frank was devoted to his Catholic faith. As an altar boy,
many mornings he would be here bright eyed and ready to serve
the 6:00 AM Mass. Here in this church, on this altar, we
served Mass for Priests like Fr. Ruiz, Fr. Ebisch, Fr.
Singelton (no doubt they will recognize him in heaven) his
devotion to the faith continued to his death.
Frank was much influenced by his father and other members
of his family who served in the military. Many of us remember
the pride and great pleasure he took in his toy soldiers and
particularly the pleasure he enjoyed with the Fort Apache
set.
The Tejedas loved music. Frank grew up listening to his
father Frank senior and his uncle Rogelio (his padrino) play
guitars and sing the ``corridos'' (ballads) about Mexican
heroes and the old songs about men defending their rights,
defending their pride. ``Las Polkas adding to the spirited
evenings. We all shared many gatherings, ending with
breakfast at one of the family homes.
The Tejedas were and to this day remain a closeknit family.
They help each other, stand by each other and their extended
families and friends. The importance of family, a value
learned from good example.
All the Primos were athletic. Usually playing baseball or
softball. Frank and his cousin Robert became legend in little
league and pony league. His Primos Aurelio Jr., Roger and
Henry were excellent athletes and were the stars of the show
at the donkey-ball games.
Junior (Rodriguez) was among the family athletes. Frank
played baseball for the St. Mary's baseball team, there too
he was accepted as a leader.
Surrounded by aunts and uncles that were loving and
supportive, Frank was rooted in the values of respect for
self, respect for others and love of family and service to
church and country.
After St. Leos, Frank attended Harlandale. He was often
involved in fights with the elements of the school district
that gave voice and action to bigotry. The intercom
frequently called for A, B, C, and D, students and the
``Tejeda boys.'' Frank was always ready to defend himself,
even against a counselor who ``called him an impudent trouble
making Mexican.''
Teachers and counselors urged Frank to study the trades
since he ``was intelligent and good with his hands''--the
same Frank who earned a BA, a JD, and two masters degrees--
St. Mary's, Berkley, Harvard, and Yale.
Frank was out of place in a school like Harlandale was
then. He left high school in his senior year, just seventeen
(17) years old. Frank's strong spirit had not been harnessed.
He had dreams he had to fulfill. He decided to accept the
challenge of ``joining the Marines.''
We all laughed when Frank candidly told of his enlistment.
He thought that when he enlisted he would have weeks or
months to relax, visit and proudly boast about joining

[[Page H310]]

the Marine Corp. He recounted that instead he was handed
papers and a ticket to board a flight to California that very
same afternoon. He laughed and reported that he felt lonely
on that flight to Camp Pendleton, in Calif.
Again his bearing and leadership became evident, despite
the rough going during boot camp. He related how on one
occasion his platoon was marching and a crusty old T.I.
yelled that everyone else was out of step except for Tejeda.
For a brief moment Frank swelled up with pride until he
realized, too late, it was he who was out of step. The
language with which he was told of his error can not be
quoted here.
After boot camp, Frank embarked on what could have been a
career in the Marines. He was the youngest marine staff
sergeant to serve in Vietnam. He distinguished himself and
earned the Bronze Star with ``V'' for valor and also earned
the Purple Heart for his wounds. Frank subsequently pulled to
safety, a wounded fellow marine. He was under fire; yet, he
courageously tried to save his fellow marine. Frank pulled
him out of peril and protected the wounded marine until
further support arrived. This fact was not reported until
recently, when one of the witnesses to this event saw Frank
on national media. The witnesses who verified the event all
thought Frank had been killed. Frank, has posthumously been
awarded the recognition he earned. The Silver Star for
gallantry in the face of enemy fire.
During his service in Vietnam, Frank and I corresponded. He
reported that he and his fellow troops were very saddened by
the fact that the ``folks back home'' were demonstrating
against the war and heaping insult on returning soldiers,
soldiers who had ``put their lives on the line.'' I
encouraged him as much as I could and encouraged him to
return home and go to college to develop that sharp mind even
more.
After Vietnam Frank was offered officer training school.
The Marines had recognized his worth and were anxious to have
him as one of their leaders. Frank, instead, opted for a
degree from St. Mary's U. Upon his attempt at admission I had
to keep Frank from ``mopping the floor'' with the director of
admissions who was more interested in technicalities than in
Frank's merits.
In 1968 Frank and I worked for the S.A.N.Y.O. we became
aware of rules that were unjust, e.g., if you spoke Spanish
you were sent home for the day. Frank organized a protest and
as a result the exec. director (a Priest) fired all eight (8)
of us on Good Friday 1970. This was the beginning of Frank's
activism.
We next worked for an organization known as the S.N.A.C. a
60's war on poverty program. Here Frank met many activists.
Some he befriended, some he distanced himself from, but he
respected them all and they in turn respected him.
At S.N.A.C. he met Edmundo M. Zaragoza. A Harlandale I.S.D.
school teacher and thus began a close friendship that lasted
until 8:25 p.m. on Thursday Jan. 30, 1997. Frank then guided
Zaragoza to victory as the First Mexican American elected by
the Mexican-American community in the Harlandale school
district, thus began the ``southside coalition.'' This name
was given to a group of young men who shared strong, personal
friendship, shared many, many hours working for the common
good of the southside. And more than anything else, they
shared values and dreams.
The continuous collaboration among friends was built on
mutual respect. Each friend (or relative) brought a different
perspective or added a new element to the melting pot that
became what is referred to as the ``southside coalition.''
Frank used his considerable leadership skills in keeping
the community united. A community that shared his views,
worked with him and ultimately gave life to common hopes.
Frank recognized that he needed additional education, so he
earned the doctor of jurisprudence from Boalt Hall, in
California, the masters in public administration at Harvard,
and the masters in law at Yale.
At Berkeley, Frank befriended Tony Jimenez, at that time a
long-haired radical who became the roommate of the
conservative marine. ``Talk about the odd couple. Tony has
been quoted on first seeing his roommate, as saying ``Holy
mackeral, I made a mistake.'' Frank's reaction was ``just as
stunned.'' They began a longterm friendship Tony, the Loyola
grad, had requested an ``out of state Chicano'' roommate. He
got one.
During law school Frank related taking his first sample
test. He wrote his answer and tried to be humorous by adding
at the end ``besides that's life.'' Frank recalled that the
professor was not amused noting that Mr. Tejeda was not
welcome to add commentary. No question Frank learned from
this ``sample'' he was the only Hispanic that earned an
honors grade his first semester. Tony was the ``eager
beaver'' student who raised his hand too often and
answered questions, which caused the professor to take
note of those in his immediate area. Frank informed Tony
that if Tony raised his hand and brought the heat one more
time, Frank would break Tony's hand. Tony did not bring
the heat again.
During their studies at Berkeley, there was a madman who
was hacking people to death. He was killing nonminorities
only. Tony and Frank would on return to their apartment late
at night sing Mexican songs, loudly if not well, to make sure
that the ``hacker'' (who would pounce from alleys) did not
make a mistake. Frank was courageous, but not foolish.
During law school Frank married Celia Gaitan, who lived
across the street from the Longorias. He had been spending
much time at the Longoria home obviously it was not just to
see his friend. Of this marriage came his pride and joys:
Marissa, Sonya, and Frank, III (Frankie). Frank and Celia
gave their children love and guidance. The children are
beautiful and were a special source of joy for Frank. The
many hopes that Frank had for his children (his deep hope to
see all his children finish high school and college) must be
realized. Sundays were family day. Special days for quality
time as a family.
Frank had sharply honed his mind and as a former marine
kept a sharply honed body. He launched himself into pubic
service with the help of trusted friends and relatives.
On the first meeting between Frank and Tony Dramburger (the
well financed incumbent) Frank bluntly and confidently told
Dramberger, he was going to beat Dramberger. His style was
``no brag just fact.'' And he did.
Frank served the southside community honorably and with
distinction. He fought eloquently against parimutuel betting.
His vision of a better community, did not include gambling.
He wanted better things for the people of the southside and
worked for it. Frank made his mark in the legislature. He
championed bills that served veterans (the Veterans Land Act,
the Purple Heart licenses among many bills) victims rights
bills and other crime bills that helped make our communities
safer.
In the Senate he continued to hold steady his course. He
fought for the issues that were important. He would stand
along and always held his ground, regardless of power of
money.
During parimutuel battles twice Frank was offered
briefcases and suit cases full of cash if he would vote his
conscience but not speak his conscience. We all know that
Frank refused to waver or give in to the temptation of money.
While Representatives at time spoke ``to hear themselves
speak,'' Frank carefully listened to (a la E.F. Hutton)
because he was respected and his fellows knew he was
determined, courageous, honest and Christian.
In the Senate and in Congress Frank served as always, with
honor and distinction. Honest and motivated by his true love
of church, family and community.
Frank was generous with his time and with what material
goods he had. He was generous to family, friends and
community, placing community interest before person gain.
No festival, no Pop Warner team, no baseball team would
suffer if Frank knew about their need. Families who couldn't
bury their dead did not suffer if Frank knew about their
need. School bands, fund raisers all of us knew about Frank.
Flags for schools, PTA, Frank did it all. Many young people
have college educations today because of Frank. Many more are
assured of college educations in the future, because of
Frank.
God gave Frank to his parents and family. They raised him,
nurtured and helped develop his character and then shared him
with us.
In turn Frank gave his family, friends and community love,
caring and generosity. He gave leadership, hard work and
hope. His generosity was uncommon in character.
Saint Matthew (Ch22 V34 speaks about the scholar of the law
who tried to test Jesus and asked, ``Master what are the
greatest commandments?'' Jesus replied, ``Love God above all
else. And the second is love thy neighbor as yourself for the
love of God. Then in C25 St. Matthew speaks of the judgment
of nations: ``When the Son of Man comes in, His glory, and
all the angels with Him, He will sit upon his glorious throne
and all the nations will be assembled before Him.''
Frank Tejeda, Jr. son, brother, father, U.S. Congressman
did many acts of kindness that will be unreported, will be
uncounted. He lived his faith. He loved and served his God.
Where he found hunger, he provided food, where he found
thirst, he gave to drink, he welcomed the stranger, he cared
for all those the least of our brothers.
He earned the respect of all his peers for his devotions to
``duty, honor, country.'' He personified the motto of his
beloved Marine Corps. ``Semper Fidelis.'' He demonstrated the
finest qualities of the Christian.
He did for the least of God's brothers and he did so with
love and caring.
He will never be replaced; but he will forever stand as an
example to be followed. God blessed him now he has inherited
the kingdom prepared for him.
May Frank rest in peace.

Mr. BECERRA. Mr. Speaker, at this stage, if I may, I would like to
take the final moments of our time that we have to just engage in some
final remarks. I know that my good friend, the gentleman from Texas
[Mr. Ortiz], could easily have used up the hour, I know I could have
used the hour just to praise the man we know as Frank Tejeda. But in
the short time that we have, I think it is only fitting and perfectly
fitting that Mr. Ortiz and I have an opportunity to just reflect now,
just perhaps more personally about the man that we are so trying to
honor today.
Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, I was reminiscing with some other Members a
few

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moments ago when Mr. Becerra was relating to us here at this committee
hearing involving veterans from Puerto Rico, he made a statement how
Puerto Rico had lost a great number of men at this great battle and how
they had to withdraw and retreat. And Frank asked Mr. Becerra, would
you yield to me? Mr. Becerra was kind enough to yield to Mr. Tejeda,
and he said, let me make a correction, Mr. Becerra. Marines do not
retreat, they do not withdraw, they regroup.
So even though Frank was a quiet man, a very reserved man, he had a
great sense of humor.
Another time I remember that yesterday I was talking about his diet.
Frank had a very special diet. No greasy food, no Cokes, no candy, no
bread. So a friend of ours came to town, and he took us to a
restaurant. And Frank asked him, do you have shrimp, and he said yes, I
like to have boiled shrimp. He got an order of boiled shrimp and he got
another one. Then he asked, what kind of steaks do you have? He did not
eat red meat. He said tuna. He said, give me one tuna steak. And then
he says, can I have another one? This is a fact.
The gentleman from New Mexico [Mr. Richardson] and the gentleman from
Arizona [Mr. Pastor] were with us, and I began to feel sorry for the
guy that was paying. He was another friend of ours. And then he said,
do you have lobster? And he ordered lobster he ended up eating with a
green salad. This was Frank Tejeda. He had not eaten all day. Many
times we go to a restaurant, and he would order stuff that I could not
eat. So I would eat all the grease, and Frank would eat all the good
stuff.
But I will never forget the day when Frank came back, 1995 during the
Hispanic Caucus dinner. Frank came back and I could see that Frank was
a little depressed, you know. I could sense something was wrong. And I
asked Frank, he would not tell me. Then after a while he said, I want
to talk to you. He says, you know that I was diagnosed with a brain
tumor, and they cannot perform surgery, and they gave me 3 months to
live. And I said Frank, do not joke around like this with me. He says,
I am not joking. Frank, we were sitting back at that corner when that
day he got ill, it started with a headache, just a bland headache, and
he says, I want an MRI. I said Frank, I have headaches every day. He
said, I know my body. He did. He went back and he tried to--he had to
convince three doctors to run an MRI on Frank.

{time} 1430

The day he was coming back, he was called and told that he had been
diagnosed with cancer. The good Lord gave Frank 13 additional months.
Thank God that I learned a lot from a great American, Frank Tejeda.
Mr. BECERRA. I think, Mr. Speaker, that the gentleman has just
epitomized Frank Tejeda. This is a man who could have been in the worst
of pain, who could have been told moments ago that he had no more than
3 months to live, who could have known that the marine he was about to
go run out there during rapid-fire, go out to save, had actually
already perished, but yet he still went out there; who never had to
really worry about expressing himself, because there was so much about
him to express, but yet he never took it upon himself to say to anyone,
feel sorry for me, be honored by my presence, recognize what I have
accomplished, never once.
This is a guy who would, as you said, he would walk in, and that is
the way I think we all remember him, he would come in and take his seat
right next to you, and there we would see him, the gentlemen from Texas
[Mr. Ortiz] and Mr. Tejeda.
As the gentleman from California [Mr. Martinez] also mentioned, you
would see someone come in and sit next to you, then someone else would
come, another person would leave. You were there, you were the anchors,
and folks would come. We knew that the House of Representatives had a
House that was righted because there was always that anchor there by
the name of Frank Tejeda.
I think we can all learn a great deal. I know I have learned because
I know he was not the friend to me as he was to you, but just in his
silence you learned so much. I believe the word service takes on such a
grand meaning when you look at someone like Frank Tejeda because in his
modest, unassuming way he served, and he served so well. He did not
have to tell people that he served so well. He just did it.
Mr. ORTIZ. His death really did not hit me until the day I came back,
which was on a Tuesday, because that phone call that Frank always made
did not come through. When we came here to the House Chamber, Frank was
not around. But we know that he is in a better place. Frank, really his
last days, he drew himself closer to God. Even though his future, there
was a lot of uncertainty in his future, he had faith. He knew he was
going to go to a better place.
Again, I would like to thank all our friends in this Chamber for
recognizing and contributing to this special order that we have today
honoring a great American, Frank Tejeda, and of course his great mother
and relatives that are with us today.
Mr. BECERRA. To the family, let me also add my appreciation to the
fact that they have been here, they have been very strong. To all the
relatives who have taken the time to say a few words about Frank, I
thank them as well.
I will close by saying the following. As we were driving in the bus
to go to the funeral and on our way back to catch a plane to go to
Washington, D.C., we drove through streets that reminded me a great
deal of home. The neighborhoods that I saw in south San Antonio were
very much like the neighborhoods in which I remember growing up.
To me it sent a very strong signal: This is a man who, modest in his
ways, was doing a great deed and a great service for a community that
oftentimes has never seen that type of champion. As much as he never
boasted about going to the Harvards and Yales and Berkeleys of this
world and getting educated, though he never boasted about the fact that
he went out there and risked his life to save the life of another
soldier, he was there. To me, seeing the context of his district sent
home the message that this was really a man who knew his place, and I
suspect he knows his place now that he is up there with the Lord.
On behalf of all those who had an opportunity to say some words and
for those who were perhaps unable to have come but would have loved to
have said some words, I say to Frank, we will miss you. There are many
here who would like to speak for you in the future and we look forward
to being able to do the words and deeds as well as you have done them
for so many years.
Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise to remember our friend,
Congressman Frank Tejeda. Frank's commitment to his constituents,
family and country was unparalleled. Often when we walked from our
offices, in the Cannon House Office Building, to the Chamber, Frank
expressed regret that there were not more hours in a day to accomplish
his goals and serve his constituents. Sadly, the years afforded Frank
were too short as well.
Yet, Frank made the most of the time he was given. His spectacular
ascent from high school dropout to Member of Congress, alone, is
eloquent testimony to his drive and dedication.
Frank's success derived from his renowned discipline. As a proud
marine, this self-described ``grunt'' exemplified the American dream.
His hard work and single-minded focus enabled him to overcome every
obstacle, except the final hurdle of cancer. And, even then, Frank
fought the good fight. Where most people would have retreated upon
diagnosis, Frank fought to return to the work he loved--serving the
people of Texas' 28th district.
Whether serving as a marine in Vietnam, obtaining his high school
equivalency, completing graduate programs at Berkeley, Harvard, and
Yale or representing his constituents, Frank tackled each challenge
with a sure sense of responsibility.
Frank felt that he owed this country for providing him with
opportunity. He repaid the perceived debt fully, by serving in war and
in peace.
My condolences go out to Frank's family. We have lost a dear friend
and colleague, but his children have lost a caring, devoted father. I
hope that they find comfort in knowing how special he was.
Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay
tribute and remember my friend, colleague, and a great American,
Congressman Frank Tejeda. His untimely death is a great loss for the
constituents of district 28, all of Texas, and the citizens of the
United States.
Congressman Tejeda and I worked together for many years in many
capacities. He and I

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were colleagues in the Texas House and the Texas Senate. We were
elected to this office in the same class in 1992.
He was a patriot, a Vietnam veteran who risked his life many times to
defend his fellow marines. He was honored with many medals. He was a
true American hero.
My colleague, Frank Tejeda, has been an example and role model for
many people in many ways. He proved that you can achieve success with
determination and hard work. He ended his life with the same quiet
dignity he always showed.
Mr. Speaker, I overwhelmingly agree with my colleagues from Texas
that we should honor Congressman Tejeda's memory and his family by
naming a post office in San Antonio as the ``Frank Tejeda Post
Office.'' I urge support for the passing of this resolution and we name
this building for a great Texan-American.
My heart and prayers are with his family.
Mr. SANDLIN. Mr. Speaker, Frank Tejeda was a quiet and reserved man
who truly embodied the spirit of all Americans. The grandson of Mexican
immigrants, Tejeda, grew up on San Antonio's tough south side; a place
he loved and a place that was always home. Frank Tejeda was an
achiever, whether it was in his beloved south side neighborhood, a
Vietnam jungle, ivy league universities, or the Halls of Congress. He
was a leader, someone others looked up to and revered. Tejeda, who died
Thursday after a long battle with brain cancer, was 51 years old.
At 17 years old Tejeda was expelled from school. Tejeda then joined
the Marine Corps and soon found himself on the battlefields of Vietnam,
something that would shape the rest of his life. During his Marine
service, Tejeda earned a Bronze Star, the Commandant's Trophy, Marine
Corps Association Award, the Colonel Phil Yeckel Award, and a Purple
Heart. His proudest achievements were his military accolades.
The Marines were a way of life for Frank Tejeda and his service to
his country did not end when he left Vietnam. Frank stayed in the
Marine Corps and later went to officer candidate school where he earned
the highest academic average in the history of the corps. Even in
Congress, Tejeda was still a marine. He served as a major in the Marine
Corps Reserve Capital Hill Unit. Sadly, his greatest military accolade
might have come posthumously as he was awarded the Silver Star by Navy
Secretary John Dalton at his funeral Monday.
The former high school dropout later returned to school and achieved
academic prowess that some probably thought impossible. He earned his
undergraduate degree at St. Mary's University. He then received his
Juris Doctorate from Boalt Hall School of Law at the University of
California-Berkeley. As great as these accomplishments were, his thirst
for knowledge didn't let him stop there. Instead, his quest would take
him to the two most hallowed universities in our Nation. First, he
graduated with an L.L.B. from Yale and later he received his master's
in public administration from Harvard's famed Kennedy School of
Government.
Frank wanted to take his knowledge and help people less fortunate
than he. He ran for the Texas Legislature and was first elected in
1976. He quickly made a name for himself in Austin where he was a
strong advocate for minority issues and fought hard for his beloved
south side. He served 10 years in the Texas House before winning
election to the Texas Senate in 1986. In the senate, he helped draw the
district he would eventually represent in Congress.
In 1992, Tejeda sought to be the first person to represent the newly
drawn 28th Congressional District. The district encompasses south San
Antonio and extends all the way to the Mexican border. His popularity
on his native south side being what it is, no Democrat or Republican
filed to run against Tejeda in either the primary or general elections.
He received 87 percent of the vote against a Libertarian that November
and was sworn into Congress in January 1993.
In Congress, Tejeda served on the National Security and Veterans
Affairs Committees. Tejeda fought hard for a strong military and issues
important to veterans. He was a strong advocate for Texas and Texas
jobs. He continually fought for Kelly Air Force Base even after it was
announced the base would close. Never wanting to lose touch with the
people he represented, Tejeda went home to San Antonio every weekend.
Tejeda was a strong family man and a man of faith. Frank left behind
his mother, Lillie Tejeda, his sister Mary Alice Lara, his two
daughters and his son Frank Tejeda III. Although, Frank may no longer
be with us, his presence is still being felt by not only San Antonians
and Texans, but by all Americans. As our recently reelected President
addressed our entire Nation he could not help but fondly reflect on the
service this man of a humble background gave to our Nation. His
presence was felt in the gallery as the Nation viewed his mother and
sister, the way Frank would have wanted to see them, standing strong.
Frank Tejeda also touched me with his presence, although I didn't
serve with him long. I am glad to say I knew this man who touched so
many lives in a positive way. Frank Tejeda was a true Texas and
American hero. I feel it is only proper that he was born and lies in
the shadow of the Alamo.
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to
Representative Frank Tejeda, who recently lost a long battle with brain
cancer.
Frank touched many lives as evidenced by the 600 people who attended
his funeral mass in San Antonio Monday and the 2,000 others outside the
church. He was a man of great conviction and perseverance, a veteran
who fought for his country in Vietnam, a leader in the Hispanic-
American community of San Antonio and a credit to this governing body.
Throughout his life, Frank Tejeda embodied the qualities of a strong
work ethic, rigorous discipline and great honor. During his 4-year tour
of duty in Vietnam, Frank distinguished himself as a marine of the
highest accord. Wounded in battle, he was awarded a Purple Heart and a
Bronze Star, and continued while in Congress to serve the corps as a
member of its reserves.
After his stint in Vietnam, Frank showed great strength of character
in attaining his education. Despite dropping out of high school at the
age of 17, he displayed the value of an education by earning degrees
from such esteemed institutions as Saint Mary's University in San
Antonio, the University of California-Berkeley, Yale University, and
the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard.
As a public servant, Frank always placed the needs of his
constituents first. As a member of the Texas State Legislature for 16
years, he was a strong advocate for veterans' rights and the victims of
violent crimes. He also fought for minorities in South San Antonio,
assisting minority-and woman-owned businesses, and promoting measures
to ensure voting rights for minorities.
In his election to Congress in 1992, Frank earned the distinction of
being the first freshman to be elected to Congress without opposition
from a major party. It was a testament to his rare legislating skills
and his unparalleled stature in the community of South San Antonio.
While serving the people of the 28th District of Texas in Congress,
Frank earned a reputation as a man of great leadership and vision. He
represented the needs of the Hispanic community in his district with
distinction. As a member of the National Security and Veterans' Affairs
Committees, he used his unique background as a marine and a soldier of
the highest acclaim to fight for the needs of our veterans.
Mr. Speaker, Congressman Frank Tejeda exemplified unmatched character
and honor during his life. He will be greatly missed by this governing
body.
I join in offering my condolences to the Tejeda family, including his
three children--Marissa, Sonya, and Frank III.
Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to say goodbye to a friend.
Although many Members of this body have risen and recounted what kind
of man, legislator, and public servant Frank Tejeda was, I believe it
certainly cannot be said enough.
I had the privilege of serving with Frank on the House Committee on
Veterans' Affairs for 6 years. As a member of the Veterans' Affairs
Committee, he was an ardent supporter of our Nation's veterans and
their families, and it is little wonder why.
He joined the Marines when he was 17 and served for 4 years. During
that time, Frank was sent to Vietnam and was awarded the Purple Heart,
a Bronze Star, the Commandant's Trophy, the Marine Corps Association
Award, and the Colonel Phil Yeckel Award for ``the best combined record
in leadership, academics, and physical fitness.'' While in Congress,
Frank continued to serve in the Marine Corps Reserve.
Frank was a true American patriot. His love and pride for his country
was evident to all who knew him. when his country called, he answered
and fought hard--putting his life on the line. He knew the price of
freedom and did not shirk from it.
There is no question that he served the 28th District of Texas and
the citizens of our country very well. I know he will be missed by all
those who were fortunate to come into contact with him over the years.
We were all heartened at the way Frank remained strong during his
battle with cancer. Whenever I saw him in a committee hearing or on the
House floor, I realized just what kind of devotion and commitment he
had for his service to his constituents and to his country.
Mr. Speaker, we will all miss Frank Tejeda. I know, however, that his
work in this body will serve as a lasting tribute to a man who devoted
his life to public service.

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