[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 27 (Friday, February 18, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E303]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CONGRATULATING THE WINNERS OF THE MEDAL OF FREEDOM

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 18, 2011

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor this week's recipients 
of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation's highest civilian 
honor. All of the honorees have led extraordinary lives and made 
enormous contributions in their fields. They come from a range of 
backgrounds--arts, sports, public service--and have enriched our nation 
and improved our world.
  I particularly want to recognize my friend, Congressman John Lewis, 
who received this honor. John has given a lifetime of service to this 
nation, from his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement to his 26 
years as the ``Conscience of the Congress.'' A few years ago, I had the 
privilege to join John on a trip to Alabama, where we retraced the 
steps of the courageous civil rights activists who changed the face of 
America. John's passion has never wavered and he remains a voice for 
the voiceless--strongly advocating for opportunity for all Americans. I 
congratulate him on this much-deserved honor and look forward to 
working with him for many years to come.

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