[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 13 (Monday, February 14, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E125-E126]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO DERRICK THOMAS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. KAREN McCARTHY

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 14, 2000

  Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss 
of a leader beloved in my city and an athlete admired throughout our 
nation. Kansas City Chiefs #58, Linebacker Derrick Thomas, died 
February 8, 2000 at the age of 33. Derrick was a star for our nation. 
His philanthropic commitment is an inspiration to us all.
  Derrick Thomas was an exceptional football player. He participated in 
nine pro bowls, more than any other player in the Chiefs franchise 
history. Derrick holds the team record for sacks and the most NFL sacks 
in a game. In December 1997, Derrick gained his 100th sack, 1 of 16 
players in the entire NFL ever to achieve this. Team leaders regarded 
him as a player who could single handedly influence the outcome of a 
game. Derrick captured 10 playoff appearances and was the Chiefs Most 
Valuable Player in 1991 and 1994. As 8-time AFC Defensive Player of the 
Week, a club-record, his athletic brilliance reflects his love and 
commitment for the game.
  Derrick has made a lasting impression on our community through his 
Third and Long Foundation, which encourages young students from the 
inner city to embrace the power of literacy. His moments shared in 
reading to children turned quickly to lasting friendships. Children 
have shared stories about Derrick's kindness, his dedication of time to 
help them with their academic needs, and his willingness to listen and 
be their friend and role model. His Foundation also assists families 
with their parenting and literacy skills. He has been recognized for 
these efforts by receiving numerous awards, including the prestigious 
1993 Edge NFL Man of the Year and the 1995 Bryon

[[Page E126]]

White Humanitarian Award for service to team, community, and country by 
the NFL Players Association. Former President Bush recognized his 
achievements by declaring him the ``832nd Point of Light.''
  His father, Robert Thomas, was a role model who motivated and 
inspired him to excellence. While returning from a mission in Vietnam 
in December 1972, Air Force Captain Thomas was shot down. Derrick 
delivered the keynote address at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial during 
the 1993 Memorial Day remembrance ceremony in honor of his late father.
  Derrick achieved many of his life long goals. He made a difference in 
our lives. We will always remember him. We will always remember his 
smile. May we learn from his tragic death the need to buckle up and in 
his memory remember each life is precious. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House 
to join me in saluting this incredible man and in extending condolences 
to Derrick's family, teammates, and friends.

                          ____________________