[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 94 (Wednesday, July 13, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1478]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


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                        HONORING GAYLORD NELSON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. TAMMY BALDWIN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 13, 2005

  Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life and 
legacy of Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin. Since his death a little more 
than a week ago, at age 89, much has been written about this 
extraordinary statesman, environmentalist, husband, father, and friend.
  Gaylord Nelson was a giant in Wisconsin history. In a life dedicated 
to public service, Gaylord Nelson embodied the ethics of his state: 
hard work, perseverance, honesty, integrity, compassion, and good 
humor.
  Gaylord Nelson was a patriot who, as a young soldier, courageously 
served 46 months in a just war, and then, as a U.S. Senator, 
courageously took a stand against a war he believed was unjust.
  As a State Senator and Governor of Wisconsin, Gaylord Nelson was an 
effective leader and natural-born politician who practiced the fine art 
of governing by always striving for the common good, seeking common 
ground, and practicing common decency. His political battles were never 
personal, and his personal friendships knew no political boundaries.
  As a U.S. Senator, Gaylord Nelson brought his energy and activism to 
the national stage. His concern for the environment was visionary and 
relentless. Gaylord Nelson's efforts led to the Environmental 
Protection Act, the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Safe 
Drinking Water Act. In 1995, President Bill Clinton honored him with 
the Nation's highest civilian award: the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
  Gaylord Nelson was an advocate for consumers, small business owners, 
farmers, and all who shared his belief in the promise of America.
  Above all, he was, as one report noted, ``A voice crying out for the 
wilderness.'' As the father of Earth Day, he leaves a legacy of 
environmental awareness and action that has changed lives and 
livelihoods for the better in communities throughout the world.
  Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin was a citizen of the world, a leader of 
the highest ethical standards, and a model public servant whose life's 
work will continue to inspire Americans for many generations. I join 
with all of Wisconsin in saluting him today.

                          ____________________