[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 84 (Tuesday, May 22, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1121]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    IN RECOGNITION OF THE RETIREMENT OF LUKE McCOY FROM ``PENSACOLA 
                                SPEAKS''

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 22, 2007

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, it is a great honor for me to 
rise today to recognize a living legend in northwest Florida. After 
nearly 15 years, Mr. Luke McCoy is stepping down as the host of the 
long-running ``Pensacola Speaks'' talk radio show in my district.
  Luke's viewpoints were as well-known as his distinctive voice as he 
took to the airwaves in the afternoon. However, he let all callers and 
guests offer their own opinions and insights and never hesitated to 
broach a tough political issue. The topics covered both national and 
local levels, and the callers always numerous and well-informed no 
matter the issue. Luke was well-known as the ``Common Man's 
Intellectual'' as he brought these issues into a forum where all felt 
comfortable discussing them and offering their views.
  It was not just the topics brought up on Luke McCoy's show that made 
it great, but also the way Luke presented them--sometimes with humor, 
sometimes with a touch of irreverence, and when appropriate with well-
deserved dignity. However, his respect for differing viewpoints was 
always constant, and northwest Florida will miss having his familiar 
presence on the airwaves in the afternoons. Fortunately, listeners will 
still get to hear Luke on the local morning show, and I know his unique 
personality will be a breath of fresh air.
  Luke McCoy is more than a radio personality, though, Madam Speaker. 
More than anything, he is a patriot, having served his country in 
combat and being wounded in action in Vietnam. He served with both the 
Army's 82nd Airborne Division as well as the Marine Corps as he 
recognized the greatness of this Nation and answered a call to duty. 
Those that listen to Luke and meet him know this patriotism is still 
strong today. He recognizes the different opinions and people that have 
come together to make America what it is today, but his support goes to 
what he sees as keeping this the greatest Nation in the world.
  Madam Speaker, I know many share my sadness with Luke's departure 
from ``Pensacola Speaks.'' His name is a fixture in the community, and 
I know many will seek his advice for years to come. His passion to 
contribute to this country is endless, and I know as he rides his 
Harley through northwest Florida and elsewhere that he will always 
maintain his support and love for the United States of America.

                          ____________________