[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 115 (Tuesday, July 31, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1361]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO EARL CAMPBELL

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 31, 2012

  Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise 
before you today to recognize Earl Campbell, one of the best football 
players to ever play the game and a visionary businessman who started 
from the bottom and worked his way to the top. The Tyler Rose is a 
living legend in the state of Texas, and it gives me pleasure to 
recognize him before Congress and this Nation.
  Earl was born in Tyler, Texas, the ``Rose Capital of the World.'' In 
5th grade he began playing football as a kicker, before realizing that 
he enjoyed delivering the hits. Earl became a star linebacker and led 
John Tyler High School to the Texas 4A State Championship in 1973. When 
coaches moved his strength and intensity to the offense, he became one 
of the most powerful running backs in history.
  Naturally many colleges all wanted someone with the leadership 
abilities and strong work ethic that Earl possessed. He chose to stay 
close to home and play with legendary Coach Darrell Royal at the 
University of Texas in Austin. Earl had a celebrated career at Texas, 
winning the Heisman Trophy, college football's highest honor after his 
senior year in 1977. He was a two-time All-American choice and finished 
his career with 4,443 yards and 41 touchdowns. Earl restored the 
Longhorn dynasty to its rightful place among the top collegiate 
programs in the country.
  The Houston Oilers made Earl the first overall draft pick in 1978, 
once again keeping him close to home in Texas. His punishing running 
style made an immediate impact on the team, leading them to a 10-6 
record and a playoff appearance. They lost in a classic game against 
the Pittsburg Steelers now known as the ``Ice Bowl.'' Despite the loss, 
Earl finished the season with 1,450 yards and 13 touchdowns, earning 
the Rookie of the Year Award and the Offensive Player of the Year 
Award. Most importantly, he helped shepherd in the ``Luv Ya Blue'' era 
that had the Astrodome rocking and brought pride to the city of 
Houston.
  For the 8 years that Earl played in the NFL, he was one of the most 
feared yet respected players. Opponents feared his tough, physical 
style of play. His 5'11'', 244-pound frame was described as a ``one man 
demolition team.'' Teammates respected his leadership and dedication. 
When they needed him, he was there, missing more than two games a 
season only once. He would finish his career with 9,407 yards, 74 
touchdowns, 5 Pro Bowl appearances, 3 All Pro teams, and the Most 
Valuable Player Award in 1979. Earl is a member of both the College and 
Professional Football Hall of Fame and will be remembered as one of the 
greatest players to ever hit the gridiron.
  The dedication to success that Earl displayed on the field translated 
off of it as well. In 1991, after hearing raves about his sausage 
recipes, he took $150,000 and started his own company, Earl Campbell 
Meat Products, Inc. The small business is the heart of the American 
economy, and Earl worked hard to make sure that his company stood out. 
He drove hundreds of thousands of miles, all over Texas and the south, 
to promote his products. Today, they are one of the largest sausage 
manufacturers in the country, selling over 11 million pounds a year.
  While being one of the most famous Texans around, Earl has never lost 
the small town values that helped shape him. He married his high school 
sweetheart, Reuna, and they have two sons, Christian and Tyler. After 
Tyler was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, the family rallied 
together and became ambassadors for the National MS Society. They have 
helped raise thousands for research and remain committed to fighting 
the disease. He also helps mentor athletes at the University of Texas, 
preparing them for the life-altering changes they will soon experience. 
The State of Texas and our Nation is a better place because of people 
like Earl.
  Earl Campbell is a shining example that the American Dream is 
possible for anyone. Through tireless effort and internal fortitude, he 
became a world-class athlete, respected businessman, and noted 
philanthropist. I am honored to recognize Earl, a true Texan, for his 
lifetime of inspiration and service to the community.
  And that's just the way it is.

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