[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 49 (Monday, April 12, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E603]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                       TRIBUTE TO DAVID RODERICK

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN P. MURTHA

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 12, 1999

  Mr. MURTHA. Mr. Speaker, I want to make a few comments before the 
House of Representatives on the occasion of the 75th birthday of a 
truly outstanding American, Dave Roderick, whose life has been a 
testimony to the American Dream, the greatness of America and what one 
individual can accomplish in this country.
  Dave grew up on the North Side of Pittsburgh. He never lost sight of 
his roots or his commitment to where he grew up. Throughout a 
distinguished career as an international business leader, he always 
made it a priority to help Pittsburgh, working to stimulate community 
and economic development of the area.
  In addition, he stands as one of our nation's greatest 
industrialists. As Chairman of U.S. Steel he oversaw the merger of U.S. 
Steel and Marathon Oil into USX Corporation.
  One of his most notable accomplishments was the work he did in the 
1970's and 1980's that literally saved the steel industry in the United 
States. Finding himself in the midst of an international economic war 
over the ``dumping'' of foreign subsidized steel, Dave Roderick worked 
tirelessly through the Ford, Carter and Reagan Administrations, finally 
succeeding in getting legislation passed which allowed the rebuilding 
of the American steel industry into the most modern in the world. That 
legislation, which saved the jobs of millions of American workers, was 
the only trade-control legislation ever approved by President Reagan.
  Dave's personal commitment to our Nation went well beyond his career 
in industry to include his distinguished service in the Pacific in 
World War II with the Marine Corps, as well as his commitment to the 
rebuilding of the Pittsburgh region. His strong work ethic and values 
were apparent early on as indicated by his work through college to pay 
for his education and his devotion to his strong and close family.
  Dave Roderick is a classic symbol of the indomitable American spirit. 
He grew up in humble surroundings and through hard work, dedication and 
commitment became a true hero of industrial America. I congratulate 
Dave on his 75th birthday and on his outstanding and uniquely American 
life.

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