[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 162 (Wednesday, November 28, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2164]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    EXPRESSING THE GRATITUDE OF HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO GENERAL 
                           ACCOUNTING OFFICE

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 27, 2001

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my support to the 
House Resolution expressing the Congress's appreciation to the General 
Accounting Office and its employees for enabling the House of 
Representatives to continue its work during the closing of our 
buildings as a result of the anthrax attack. The GAO provided office 
space for and administrative support of the House with little 
forewarning and its employees stood by, ready to be of assistance 
providing a warm welcome, that made our transition that much easier. I 
and my staff were personally pleased to be accommodated in the offices 
of Mr. McCoy Williams and Ms. Lynda E. Downing for several days 
providing us the opportunity to continue our work while they were 
inconvenienced. This sacrifice was and is greatly appreciated.
  During these turbulent times, our ability to depend on each other has 
been essential to an appropriate and expedient response to support and 
lead the Nation. The GAO is always an important component of our work 
and its performance during the most recent challenge exceeded all 
expectations. I thank them for their hard work and dedication.