[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 21 (Thursday, March 5, 1998)]
[House]
[Page H878]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO ROBERT ``BOB'' CHILDS

  (Mr. ARMEY asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. ARMEY. Madam Speaker, I would like to take a moment to speak 
about one of our House's more dedicated employees. Today I would like 
to acknowledge the career of Bob Childs, who recently left us for 
retirement after 37 years' work on Capitol Hill.
  Bob came to government service in 1960 in the electrical engineering 
department under the Architect of the Capitol to work on the 
inauguration of President Kennedy.
  In 1961 he assisted in wiring the House for sound. Due in large 
measure to his efforts, our voices ring loud and clear through this 
Chamber to this very day.
  Early in 1970 Bob worked on the Senate's very first sound system, and 
in 1973 became the supervisor for the sound systems of both Chambers.
  In 1976 Bob participated in the design and installation of our 
present sound system here in the House, while maintaining supervisory 
responsibility for its overall operation and for the TV lighting in the 
Chamber for all joint sessions. It is worth noting that Bob's schedule 
often required him to arrive at 7 a.m. and to remain on duty until the 
session ended after special orders.
  During his 37 years on the Hill, Bob accumulated a wealth of 
knowledge as to how this institution functioned in terms of both the 
legislative process and behind the scenes operations which support our 
legislative efforts here. His eagerness to share his knowledge, 
combined with the skill and integrity always present in carrying out 
his duties, leaves us at a loss on many levels. He can easily be 
classified as a resource, and we know all too well that a resource is 
rarely appreciated until it is no longer available. But in Bob's case, 
we want to let him know how much he have meant to us in this 
institution and to convey our thanks for a job well done for 37 years.
  In closing, it is important to us that Bob realize how special his 
contributions have been and that wherever retirement takes him and 
Nancy, to Myrtle Beach, to Cape May, to the Maryland or Delaware coast, 
we hope that his path will from time to time lead back to us.
  Madam Speaker, we say to Bob, ``Good-bye, good luck and God Bless 
you.''
  Mr. FAZIO of California. Madam Speaker, if the gentleman will yield, 
I would like to add the minority's accolades to Bob Childs and express 
our appreciation to the leader for highlighting his service to our 
institution.

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