[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 95 (Tuesday, July 8, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1375-E1376]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO THE LATE JAMES MAITLAND STEWART

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 8, 1997

  Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life 
of one of America's most cherished heroes, James Maitland Stewart, 
known to beloved fans worldwide as Jimmy Stewart. He was not only a 
World War II hero, but he was the quintessential American--honest, 
moral, and decent.

[[Page E1376]]

  Jimmy Stewart was born on May 20, 1908, in Indiana, PA. He graduated 
from Princeton University in 1932 and soon traveled to Broadway. After 
a string of hits, he went to Hollywood and appeared in his first movie, 
``Murder Man,'' with Spencer Tracy. He portrayed characters in nearly 
80 films, spanning the film genres of westerns, dramas, thrillers, and 
comedies. He starred with the greats of the Silver Screen: Grace Kelly, 
Katherine Hepburn, Cary Grant, and John Wayne.
  In 1941, Stewart enlisted in the U.S. Army. His military career was 
as successful as his acting career. He flew 25 successful missions over 
enemy territory and was promoted to the rank of colonel. Due to his 
bravery and valor he was awarded the Air Medal and the Distinguished 
Flying Cross. He retired in 1968 with the rank of brigadier general, 
making him the highest-ranking entertainer in the United States 
Military.
  After the war, he appeared in ``It's A Wonderful Life,'' one of the 
most celebrated movies in American history. In 1940, he won his first 
Academy Award for the ``Philadelphia Story.'' Always known as a humble 
man, he sent the award home to his parents. He went on to be nominated 
four more times. He won the lifetime achievement award from the 
American Film Institute in 1980, the Kennedy Center in 1983, and the 
Film Society of Lincoln Center in 1990.
  Jimmy Stewart, a true renaissance man, served as a role model for 
many Americans during his 89 years. Several generations have already 
enjoyed his movies and their influence is sure to continue to 
posterity.
  Mr. Speaker, I respectfully urge my colleagues to take a moment to 
remember Jimmy Stewart--a man who embodied the spirit of America.

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