[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 94 (Wednesday, July 15, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1309]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       A TRIBUTE TO ERIC BACHMANN

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ROB PORTMAN

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 15, 1998

  Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to celebrate the life of Eric 
Bachmann, a remarkable young man who was working to preserve an 
important chapter in our nation's history. Tragically, Eric died on 
Saturday, July 11, one day before his 27th birthday.
  Eric was the Assistant to the President and CEO at the National 
Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. He also helped 
us develop the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Act 
which will be signed into law soon. As we move forward to promote 
racial cooperation, we will continue to be motivated by Eric's spirit.
  Eric graduated from Texas Tech in 1993 with a degree in history. Eric 
then moved on to the National Conference for Community and Justice 
(formerly the NCCJ), before beginning his service as an official of the 
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
  Healing the wounds of racial and social injustice was one of Eric's 
true passions, and he admired those who worked for freedom. These 
ideals led him to work diligently to honor the courage of those 
involved with the Underground Railroad.
  Eric was loyal and dedicated. He served his community and country 
through his good work. All of us in Cincinnati will miss him as a 
colleague and friend.

                          ____________________