[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 126 (Wednesday, September 9, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2219]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


         IN HONOR OF CONGRESSMAN WILLIE GATHREL ``BILL'' HEFNER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN P. MURTHA

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 9, 2009

  Mr. MURTHA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Willie Gathrel 
``Bill'' Hefner. Bill was a unique Member of Congress and served with 
distinction as the Chair of the Military Construction Subcommittee for 
many years. Few Members could match his contribution to the defense of 
this country. He represented his congressional district well, but never 
lost sight of national goals, whether those dealt with education, law 
enforcement, or defense. Many times he would sit on the floor listening 
intently to debate and he became one of the best extemporaneous 
speakers that ever served in Congress. Madam Speaker, Bill Hefner was a 
good friend and an outstanding American.

                          ____________________