[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 134 (Thursday, December 7, 2006)]
[House]
[Page H8972]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  2300
                         TRIBUTE TO LANE EVANS

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Lipinski) is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my 
colleague from Illinois, Lane Evans, and recognize his long, 
distinguished career in public service.
  From his time in the U.S. Marine Corps to nearly a quarter century in 
the House of Representatives, Lane has always put his country first, 
and now with his retirement at the end of the 109th Congress I join my 
colleagues in thanking Lane for his great service to his district, the 
State of Illinois and our Nation.
  Lane Evans bravely served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. 
His experience in the military and his firsthand knowledge of veterans' 
issues led Lane to become a leading advocate for veterans during his 
time in Congress. On issues critical to veterans, such as post-
traumatic stress disorder, the effects of Agent Orange, and 
homelessness to veterans, Lane Evans was consistently a leader in 
crafting real policy solutions. Lane's leadership on veterans' issues 
was formally recognized in 1995 when was named ranking member of the 
House Committee on Veterans Affairs.
  In addition to his great work on veterans' issues, Lane has always 
dutifully served his constituents and the State of Illinois. He has 
been a strong advocate for working Americans and was one of the first 
to see the need for renewable energies, especially for ethanol.
  My own experience in the hallowed halls of Congress began more than 
20 years ago when I worked as an intern in Lane Evans' office. I will 
never forget how he was a great example to me. He showed how to be a 
truly compassionate and effective leader in the House.
  Lane Evans' legacy will certainly reflect his commitment to our great 
Nation. His insight, passion and presence will be deeply missed by all 
of us.
  I wish Lane all the best in his retirement, and we are all truly 
grateful for his dedicated service, and we will truly miss the man and 
his dedication and the friend that he was to so many in this chamber.

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