[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 76 (Wednesday, May 21, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1042]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE LARRY COMBEST

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 19, 2003

  Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Congressman Larry 
Combest for his service to this chamber and to the people of Texas. The 
19th Congressional District of Texas has been diligently represented by 
Congressman Combest for over eighteen years since his initial election 
to Congress in 1984. Larry's greatest accomplishments came during his 
reign as Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee. Under the 
leadership of Chairman Combest, the Agriculture Committee completed 
years of work in passing the Farm Bill that President George W. Bush 
signed into law last year.
  Prior to being elected to the House of Representatives, Larry was no 
stranger to Capitol Hill. He served as a legislative assistant to 
Senator John Tower of Texas from 1971 to 1978.
  I've had the privilege of working alongside Larry since I came to 
this body in 1997. I have come to know Larry to be not only a hard-
working colleague, but also a wonderful friend, He and his lovely wife 
Sharon will be greatly missed around these halls.
  I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the very capable 
and intelligent staff of Congressman Combest. Among the staff, 
Congressman Combest's Senior Legislative Assistant, Taylor Bledsoe, 
will also shortly be leaving the Hill. Taylor has been a great asset to 
Congressman Combest, and is a good friend. I wish Taylor and his wife 
Jen all the best for their move back to the Lone Star State.
  Larry leaves behind Texas-sized shoes for his successor to fill. I 
wish Larry and his family well. Thank you Larry for your service to 
Texas and to the nation.

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