[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 30 (Friday, February 13, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E292]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING JOHN D. DINGELL FOR HOLDING THE RECORD AS THE LONGEST SEVING 
                 MEMBER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. BOB ETHERIDGE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 11, 2009

  Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of John D. Dingell's 
distinguished service in the House of Representatives, and in support 
of H. Res. 154. As many of the other speakers have noted, we do not 
just honor him for this longevity in this institution, but for what he 
has done while he has served here. For more than 50 years, he has 
represented the interests of working Americans from across this 
country, and particularly from his home district in Michigan. He has 
been a strong defender of rights: a strong voice for civil rights and 
civil liberties, and a leader in environmental protection. He has 
brought his intellect and passion to bear to address the challenge of 
health care access, helping establish Medicare in 1965, the Children's 
Health Insurance Program in 1997, and many other health initiatives 
since and between. He understands the urgency that remains on this 
issue, and I can think of no person better positioned to make expanding 
health coverage for all Americans a reality.
  One of the things I really respect about John, beyond his commitment 
and dedication to this country, is his honesty. When he says something, 
his word is his bond. It says a lot about this institution when the 
Dean of the House is reliable like that, and whether he is with you or 
against you know where you stand. I have appreciated working alongside 
him throughout my own service in this distinguished House.
  I salute Congressman Dingell's long commitment to public service, his 
impressive record of accomplishment, and his defense of working 
Americans. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring his service by 
voting for H. Res. 154.

                          ____________________