[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 139 (Wednesday, October 8, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1966]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO HENRY B. GONZALEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. SILVESTRE REYES

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 7, 1997

  Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my esteemed colleague, 
Henry B. Gonzalez. He has been an outstanding leader for San Antonio, 
the Hispanic community, and for all Americans due to his dedicated 
service to this Congress for 36 years. As the dean of the Texas 
delegation, Henry B. has been a state leader who has represented our 
state with great commitment. Congressman Gonzalez has truly been 
working for the citizens of this country his entire life. Starting a 
career of public service in 1945, he began working on critical issues 
for San Antonio. After a number of different community positions, he 
began a political career in 1953 with a position on the San Antonio 
city council, graduating to the State senate, and culminating with his 
long membership in this body beginning in 1961. Throughout his storied 
career he relentlessly advocated for veterans, small business, labor, 
housing, economic development, education, the environment, and civil 
rights. He took difficult positions and never wavered in standing for 
what was just and right.
  Never shying away from responsibility, he took the helm of the House 
Banking Committee in 1989 and for 5 years dealt with the daunting 
problems of the savings and loan crisis, and other complex banking 
issues during his tenure. Currently, as the ranking member to the 
committee he has continued to be a voice of wisdom, bringing his 
expertise and experience to current issues. He has been a wealth of 
knowledge for all Members of this House and a source of inspiration for 
those new and old.
  As a fellow Texas Congressman, I commend Henry B. for his guidance, 
numerous accomplishments, and know that his career will be a benchmark 
for all of us to aspire to reach. Farewell and buena suerte amigo.

                          ____________________