[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 39 (Monday, April 7, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S2796]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             JACK THOMPSON

 Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to a 
constituent, a friend, a leader, and a great American. Jack Thompson 
recently retired from the Monroe Auto Equipment Co. in Michigan after a 
long and legendary career that is the embodiment of the American dream.
  Jack started working at Ford Motor Co. in 1957. He later rose from 
the factory floor to lead a billion-dollar automotive supply company. 
Along the way, Jack demonstrated what it is to be not only a great 
leader, but a great human being. Jack's respect for the people working 
the floor drove his manufacturing philosophy throughout his career. His 
experiences gave him a lifelong respect and admiration for these 
workers, who are the keystone of success for any company.
  Jack never measured success by a better title, a bigger office, or 
higher profits. Jack's success was measured by the success of his 
workers, whom he continuously cheered on and challenged. He has always 
been his workers biggest champion. A telling example of Jack's 
leadership qualities came in 1986 when Jack received the Monroe 
Management Club's first Manager of the Year Award. Voted by Jack's 
subordinates, peers, and superiors, the award recognized his excellence 
in not only what he accomplished, but also how he accomplished it.
  Twenty years ago, Jack put together a 10-point operating philosophy 
that he used and taught others. The first point on that list says a lot 
about how Jack approached business and life. It simply said, ``be 
completely honest.'' That's just one of the qualities that have made 
Jack a shining example to his workers, friends, and neighbors.
  I know my Senate colleagues join me in honoring Jack Thompson on his 
outstanding career.

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