[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 135 (Saturday, November 20, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2085]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATING 35-YEAR CONGRESSIONAL CAREER OF THE HONORABLE PHILIP M. 
                           CRANE OF ILLINOIS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. FRANK R. WOLF

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 17, 2004

  Mr. WOLF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a distinguished 
member of this chamber, Congressman Phil Crane. Since 1969, Rep. Crane 
has served his constituents in the 8th District of Illinois with 
distinction and dedication. I join my colleagues in celebrating his 
career in the House.
  Born in the midst of the Great Depression, Phil served his Nation in 
the Army, and went on to earn his doctorate degree from Indiana 
University. He then began a career in academia, before being elected to 
Congress. He continued his intellectual interests, going on to write 
three books, and contributing to various publications.
  Congressman Crane's interest and extensive knowledge of economic 
issues is well known. He is a champion of free trade, and played a 
pivotal role in the House passage of NAFTA and the 1994 General 
Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. As vice chairman of the Ways and Means 
Committee, Rep. Crane has taken a leadership role on issues of great 
importance to all Americans, such as Social Security, taxes, and 
Medicare.
  As a leader in the conservative movement and as the senior Republican 
member in the House, Phil Crane has created a record of accomplishment 
for his constituents and his Nation during his tenure in the House. His 
legislative accomplishments have made a lasting and positive impact on 
our Nation, and his leadership in the House has inspired his 
colleagues.
  Although Congressman Crane will soon leave this chamber, his 
accomplishments and his legacy will continue to live on. All of us who 
have had the opportunity to serve with Phil Crane are better for the 
experience, and I congratulate him on his distinguished career.

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