[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 155 (Friday, December 15, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S11892]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO CONGRESSMAN JULIAN DIXON

  Mr. SHELBY. Mr. President, I rise in tribute to a friend and 
colleague, Julian Dixon. Congressman Dixon honorably represented the 
32nd District of California for more than 22 years. Julian and I were 
members of the Congressional Freshman Class of 1978. It was my pleasure 
to serve with him for more than two decades.
  Everyone in the Senate knew him and I know no member of the House or 
Senate who did not like him, as well as respect him. His life 
exemplified public service and his actions were always motivated by 
truth, justice and compassion. He was without question a Distinguished 
Gentlemen.
  During his tenure in office, Congressman Dixon accomplished many 
things. He was always magnanimous in victory and gracious in defeat and 
accepted difficult assignments, such as the Chairmanship of the House 
Ethics Committee in 1989. It is a responsibility that few members seek 
and only the most selfless accept. Congressman Dixon did so, and the 
House of Representatives is a better place for his service.
  From 1957 to 1960, he served as an enlisted man in the United States 
Army, rising to the rank of sergeant. This experience made him a life 
long advocate for the men and women in the Armed Forces. He understood 
their hardships and needs as well as any member of the Congress. The 
military services have lost a good friend.
  At the conclusion of the Cold War, our defense expenditures were cut 
dramatically. Literally, hundreds of military installations, large and 
small, around the Nation were slated for closure. Thousands of small 
businesses depended entirely, or mostly on work generated by the 
defense industry, and they were in danger of failure.
  In an effort to help these businesses, Congressman Dixon sponsored 
legislation to assist small businesses in making the difficult 
transition to new markets. His efforts saved innumerable small 
businesses from going under and now many are thriving because of his 
foresight and stewardship. Most recently he was the very able Ranking 
Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. He was 
a voice of reason and restraint in an arena that often lends itself to 
hyperbole and grandstanding. Julian served his country well in this 
capacity.
  Congressman Dixon was known for his intelligence, political savvy and 
strong character. While Julian surely had much lift to accomplish, he 
truly made a difference while he walked among us. He was a family man 
and a man of the people. He will be missed. Our prayers are with his 
family, friends and people he served so well.

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