[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 106 (Friday, July 31, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S9609]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO ALAN J. GIBBS

 Mr. LAUTENBERG. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to 
an individual who dedicated his life to public service, and who died 
leaving that legacy as a model for all of us.
  Alan Gibbs began his career in Baltimore, Maryland. After serving 
several years on the National Labor Relations Board he joined the Equal 
Employment Opportunity Commission right here in Washington, D.C. His 
work at the EEOC was recognized by his peers when he received the 
Commission's meritorious service award. Wherever Alan served there was 
always public acknowledgment of his contributions. New York City, 
Seattle and my home state of New Jersey were fortunate beneficiaries of 
Alan's energy, tenacity and commitment to bettering the lives of 
others.
  In 1977, Alan was appointed Assistant Secretary of the Army by 
President Carter. He was awarded the Distinguished Civilian Service 
Award--an honor not many are given but few deserve as much.
  In New Jersey, Alan served as the Commissioner of the Department of 
Human Services. During his tenure, Alan made sure that individuals were 
not lost in the shuffle or became faceless statistics. He was always 
compassionate and caring. The principle that guided his tenure, and is 
his most enduring legacy, was to give each individual the resources to 
live a life with dignity and hope. The job was not easy, but Alan got 
it done.
  Alan also gave of his time to teaching. He recognized the importance 
of education and helped equip students for their careers.
  Mr. President, I extend my deep condolences to Alan's wife Barbara, 
and their children Jordan, Philip and Cynthia. The outpouring of 
tributes to Alan are in reality a celebration of his life. I hope they 
bring comfort and a measure of joy in remembrance to his 
family.

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