[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 146 (Wednesday, October 14, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2165]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE HENRY B. GONZALEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. SILVESTRE REYES

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 9, 1998

  Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to Congressman Henry B. 
Gonzalez who will be retiring from the House of Representatives at the 
end of this session. As the Dean of the Texas delegation, he has been a 
remarkable representative for his district, for Texas, and for the 
entire Nation.
  Throughout his career Congressman Gonzalez has never failed to stand 
up for the rights of others. For over 40 years, beginning in the Texas 
legislature and throughout his career in the United States House of 
Representatives he has stood up for minorities. Moreover, he has 
continually spoken out for improved educational, economic and housing 
opportunities for the Nation. His legendary courage to stand by his 
principles, and singularly take on controversial positions in the 
national interest are an inspiration to all Americans.
  Moreover, we should all be grateful for his skilled leadership as 
Chairman of the House Banking Committee. His oversight and 
investigative skills steered our Nation through one of the most serious 
financial periods of our Nation. Through his insightful and decisive 
actions he brought about meaningful solutions to the devastating 
multibillion dollar savings and loan crisis. Additionally, he averted a 
similar crisis in the banking industry with important legislative 
reforms with an overhaul of our system of deposit insurance.
  Furthermore, as the first Mexican-American Congressional 
Representative from Texas, he has been an inspiration for Hispanics and 
all Americans. He stands as a model of a person having the courage to 
sometimes stand alone and blaze a new trail in the name of public 
service. He is an example of the American ideal that one person can 
truly make a difference. His powerful voice spoke out for the hopes and 
dreams of millions of Americans, and his level of dedication and 
commitment is a standard for all Members of Congress.
  I am proud to say that I have known Congressman Gonzalez for many 
years. I am even more proud to have had the opportunity to serve with 
him as a Member of the 105th Congress. Congressman Gonzalez is a person 
whose strength of character and tenacity I admire and respect.
  As he leaves this legislative body, his independent spirit will 
forever remain in this chamber. We will always remember Congressman 
Henry B. Gonzalez as a fierce advocate for the highest American ideals. 
His 37 years of service are filled with distinction and 
accomplishments, and his constituents can be proud of sending a 
legendary advocate for his district and for all Americans.
  Congressman Henry B. Gonzalez, I wish you well in your future 
pursuits, and know that you leave a powerful legacy of tirelessly 
working for the betterment of America.

                          ____________________