[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 51 (Wednesday, March 28, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E479]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE SERVICE OF JOHN V. SULLIVAN, HOUSE PARLIAMENTARIAN, UPON 
                             HIS RETIREMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 27, 2012

  Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate House 
Parliamentarian John V. Sullivan on his retirement from the U.S. House 
of Representatives. John, who was appointed House Parliamentarian by 
former Speaker Dennis Hastert on May 31, 2004, will retire at the end 
of this month after serving 25 years in the parliamentarian's office. 
John became only the fourth parliamentarian to serve in the House since 
the office was established in 1928.
  John Sullivan is one of the most exceptional parliamentarians I have 
had the pleasure to serve with during my 35 years in Congress. John has 
always handled himself with the utmost professionalism and has always 
held himself to the highest standard. There is no sharper mind or 
greater expert on parliamentary procedure than John Sullivan. Members 
on both sides of the aisle have relied on his expertise and extensive 
knowledge of the legislative process. I echo the Speaker and Minority 
Leader's comments that his retirement is ``a loss for the people's 
House.''
  Over the years, I have seen a steady and disturbing decline in the 
civility and comity in the House of Representatives. There have been 
more heated exchanges and political bickering on the House floor in 
recent years than I care to remember. However, through it all, John has 
been able to navigate the House through some difficult times and has 
reminded all of us that we should respect our colleagues and the rules 
of this great institution. His steady leadership, intellect and 
nonpartisan decision making has made it possible for this body to 
continue to function despite the political rancor.
  Throughout my life, I've tried to emulate those for whom I have great 
respect. John Sullivan is one of those people that I will always admire 
and respect. Not only am I a better legislator, but I am also a better 
person for having known John Sullivan. I wish John the best in his 
retirement and thank him for his years of service to this great body 
and to our Nation.

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