[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 35 (Friday, March 22, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S2322]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    THE LATE HERMAN EUGENE TALMADGE

 Mr. THURMOND. Mr. President, I would like to take this 
opportunity to recall the memory of my devoted cousin and loyal friend. 
It is with great sadness that I remember my former colleague here in 
the United States Senate, the late Herman Talmadge, who shared this 
floor with me for many years. He passed away yesterday at his home in 
Hampton, GA.
  Herman Eugene Talmadge was born in 1913 to Eugene and Mattie Thurmond 
Talmadge in McRae, GA. He graduated from the University of Georgia 
School of Law in 1936 and then went on to practice law in Atlanta with 
his father. He continued to practice law until he felt a patriotic duty 
to volunteer for World War II. He entered the United States Navy in 
1941 as an ensign. He was discharged from the Navy as a lieutenant 
commander in 1945. Senator Talmadge was also the capable Governor of 
the fine State of Georgia from 1948 to 1955. As Governor, Senator 
Talmadge focused his efforts on the farmers and rural areas of Georgia.
  Senator Talmadge distinguished himself in the United States Senate. 
During his tenure, he served as chairman of the Agriculture Committee, 
vice chairman of the Finance Committee, and on the Watergate committee 
hearings. Senator Talmadge continued to support rural areas and the 
farming community in the United States Senate when he helped pass the 
Rural Development Act of 1972. This act promoted the development of 
jobs and infrastructure in rural areas. He gained much of his national 
recognition during the year long Watergate committee hearings.
  Senator Talmadge may have best been known for the outstanding 
services that he provided to the good people of Georgia. He tried to 
provide the best possible service to everyone that he possibly could. 
He never forgot those who voted for him, and he was always willing to 
help his constituents. It was a combination of this constituent support 
and his strong work ethic that made him so hard to beat in an election.
  Senator Talmadge was a public spirited, patriotic citizen. He will 
long be remembered for all his great works in the United States Senate, 
and for his unwavering commitment and support to the people of the 
Peach State. He was not only a statesman, but also a true southern 
gentleman, and he will undoubtedly be missed by a large circle of 
family and friends.
  My heartfelt thoughts and Prayers go out to the entire Talmadge 
Family. May God's richest blessings rest on them and sustain them in 
this time of sorrow and grief.

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