[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 122 (Wednesday, September 12, 2012)]
[House]
[Pages H5903-H5913]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING CONGRESSMAN JERRY COSTELLO

  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. McKinley). Under the Speaker's announced 
policy of January 5, 2011, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Lipinski) 
is recognized for 60 minutes as the designee of the minority leader.


                             General Leave

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members 
have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and 
to include extraneous material on the subject of my Special Order 
honoring Congressman Jerry Costello's distinguished service in 
Congress.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentleman from Illinois?
  There was no objection.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great legislator 
and a close personal friend, Congressman Jerry Costello, who will 
retire from the House of Representatives at the end of this 112th 
Congress.
  Jerry has long been known as one of the most effective and well-liked 
Members of Congress since he took office in 1988. It is my honor to 
lead this Special Order in his honor.
  I knew Jerry before I was elected to Congress in 2004. I had the 
privilege of working in his congressional office in the mid-1990s. 
Today, we serve together on two House committees: the Transportation 
and Infrastructure Committee, and the Science, Space, and Technology 
Committee.
  Jerry has been an important mentor to me throughout my time here. I 
have always been impressed with his work on behalf of his constituents 
and his work to improve America's transportation network. He is someone 
who is here to get things done, and he knows how to do it.
  His retirement from this body is a loss to us all. Congress will not 
be the same without Jerry, and I know we would all benefit if we had 
more colleagues like him.
  There are a number of Members on both sides of the aisle who want to 
speak, so I will continue with the rest of my speech later if we have 
time. But right now, I want to recognize the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. 
DeFazio).

                              {time}  1740

  Mr. DeFAZIO. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  We could devote much more than an hour to Jerry Costello's career in 
Congress.
  I sat next to Jerry on the Transportation and Infrastructure 
Committee for more than two decades, and there is no more 
knowledgeable, dedicated advocate in the United States Congress--most 
recently on aviation issues, but across the board on infrastructure 
issues which underlie our economy and our productivity and our growth--
than Jerry Costello. His work has been phenomenal. He has done more 
than I could have imagined in his period of time. And we will miss him.
  I congratulate him upon a well and hard-earned retirement.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. I yield to the gentleman from Alaska (Mr. Young).
  Mr. YOUNG of Alaska. I thank the gentleman for yielding.
  I apologize to my good friends, but this has to be a two-way street--
bipartisan--because I do believe that Jerry was an example of the 
Congress that I knew and loved where we worked together to solve 
problems. Jerry was very good at that. I, as chairman of the 
Transportation Committee, we worked through with Jim Oberstar, and we 
never had an adversarial vote in that whole period of time because he 
did believe in bipartisanship for the bills in transportation, not only 
in his district, but for the Nation as a whole.
  Jerry was a gentleman at all times. Sometimes I get a little excited, 
and he would remind me as the chairman that maybe I could be a little 
more kinder. I told him that doesn't always work. That worked for 
Jerry. And I do respect his capability to not only serve in his 
district, but making sure that this Nation had a transportation system 
in place that would serve this whole Nation.
  I look forward to Jerry's retirement--in a sense. I'm sure he'll do 
good and great things after this, but we will miss his time in 
Congress. And as a Republican, I definitely will miss him. I do thank 
Jerry.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. I thank you, Mr. Young.
  I want to recognize now the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis).
  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. I want to thank my friend from Illinois (Mr. 
Lipinski) for yielding to me.
  When I think of Jerry Costello, I think of the fact that those of us 
in Illinois sort of had two go-to members of the Transportation 
Committee for many years, Bill Lipinski, who is the Congressman's 
father, and Jerry Costello. We used to call them the ``Gold Dust 
Twins.'' One of the reasons is because they had such a great 
relationship and worked cooperatively to make sure that our State, the 
State of Illinois, the home of Abraham Lincoln, was well taken care of 
in terms of infrastructure, but they also worked for the entire 
country.
  I had an opportunity to travel with Jerry and his wonderful wife a 
number of times. Of course she is a delightful lady who is a higher 
education administrator, the president of a community college. And 
other members of their family are engaged in public service as well as 
what they do privately. I've never known a more congenial Member of 
this body or any other legislative body that I've served in than Jerry 
Costello.
  I think he's actually too young to retire, and so I've got a feeling 
that he's got some other things on his mind, some other things that 
he's going to do. I think he'll still be fishing down in the East St. 
Louis area, making sure that the catfish and the other creatures out 
there give up their habitat and become members of the land gentry.
  So Jerry, take care of yourself. Have all the fun that you can, but 
I'm certain that there is something else that you're going to be doing.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. Next, I want to recognize the gentleman from 
Connecticut (Mr. Larson).
  Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. 
Lipinski) for organizing this hour and concur with my colleagues that 
an hour is not nearly enough to highlight the virtues and certainly the 
public service of our distinguished colleague, Jerry Costello.
  Jerry, as has already been said, and his lovely wife, Georgia, their 
beautiful

[[Page H5904]]

family, we're all very happy and proud that he will be joined with 
them. In whatever endeavor he does, we know he will bring the kind of 
energy, the kind of commitment, and the kind of integrity that he's 
brought to the floor of the House.
  Robert Remini, also from Illinois and a historian, has written a 
significant history about the House. In his book, he talks about the 
character of the people that serve here. I'm proud to say that I've had 
the opportunity to serve with someone who is so genuine, who cares so 
deeply about this institution, his home State of Illinois, and the 
people he has served with. He does it the old fashioned way, the Bill 
Lipinski way, with a handshake and a commitment and always looking you 
directly in the eye. As Don Young from Alaska indicated, he also has 
the great capacity to reach across the aisle, understanding implicitly 
that things don't get done unless we're capable of working together. An 
incredible wise sense of humor, always sage advice, and an incredible 
understanding of politics, not only the local flavor of his great State 
of Illinois, but also the ebb and flow of business here on the floor of 
the House of Representatives.
  He is honored by his colleagues and respected not only for his 
political acumen and his professionalism, but most of all because of 
the integrity that he brings to this floor each and every day. He will 
be sorely missed. It's an honor to have served with him. I look forward 
to a continued relationship with this great man from Illinois, Jerry 
Costello.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. Next, I want to recognize the gentleman from Missouri 
(Mr. Clay).
  Mr. CLAY. Let me thank my friend from Illinois (Mr. Lipinski) for 
yielding.
  Let me say, Mr. Speaker, that I rise today to honor my great friend 
and colleague, the distinguished senior Member from Illinois (Mr. 
Costello). Let me also mention that Mr. Costello served in previous 
Congresses with my father, so he was here when I got here. And our 
districts are just across the river from each other. He represents 
southern Illinois, and I represent the city of St. Louis, the Gateway 
to the West.
  As he prepares to retire at the conclusion of the 112th Congress, 
Congressman Costello has been a trusted friend and mentor to me for the 
last 12 years. When I first arrived as a freshman Member of Congress in 
2001, Congressman Costello was here to greet me and guide me along the 
right path, and over the years I have continued to rely on his good 
advice and wise counsel. His departure is a great loss for the State of 
Illinois, the citizens of the 12th District, and the St. Louis regional 
delegation.
  For the last 24 years, Mr. Costello has been a tireless advocate for 
southern Illinois and Metro East. He has been a champion for rebuilding 
and enhancing our transportation infrastructure. The magnificent new 
Mississippi River bridge that is currently under construction will be a 
powerful symbol of his legacy of leadership.
  Congressman Costello has also been the patron saint of Scott Air 
Force Base, the largest employer in southern Illinois. Our region, and 
indeed our Nation, are stronger because of his continuous efforts to 
preserve and expand this vital national defense asset.

                              {time}  1750

  Mr. Speaker, I consider it a great blessing to have had the 
opportunity to serve with Congressman Costello and to call him my good 
friend. I honor him for his service to his State, the St. Louis region, 
and our Nation, and I salute him on a remarkable congressional career.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. Thank you, Mr. Clay.
  Next I want to recognize the gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. 
Schakowsky).
  Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. First, let me thank the gentleman, Mr. Lipinski, for 
organizing this opportunity to come to the floor today and recognize 
the remarkable achievements of our dear friend, my dear friend, 
Representative Jerry Costello.
  I want to thank Jerry, my friend and colleague, for his 24 years of 
remarkable, outstanding service to his district, to Illinois, and to 
the country. And although he's retiring at the end of this Congress, I 
know that his impact will be long-lasting.
  Since arriving in Congress in 1999, I have been very fortunate to 
have Jerry Costello to rely on for advice and guidance and support. And 
as you hear from one Member after another who gets up and says the same 
thing, you can see how Jerry Costello has been a friend to so many on 
both sides of the aisle.
  When I came, he and then-Representative Ray LaHood, now Secretary of 
Transportation, convened routine meetings of the Illinois House 
delegation to discuss how we could work together to meet the needs of 
our State. A fierce advocate for southwestern and southern Illinois, 
Jerry was eager to help all parts of the State to obtain Federal 
assistance and meet the needs of our constituents.
  Our delegation may have had some disagreements on policy, but we were 
firmly united, under Jerry's leadership, in our desire to bring funding 
to Illinois to create jobs, improve access to health care, help farmers 
and promote Illinois businesses.
  It wasn't until I was in Congress for a while longer that I realized 
that not every State delegation met in this manner. It was because of 
Jerry's leadership, his dedication to getting things done, and his 
ability to work in a bipartisan manner that the Illinois delegation 
could get together, not just to talk, but to achieve concrete results.
  Throughout his career, Jerry has been a real workhorse. As senior 
member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and ranking 
Democrat on the Aviation Subcommittee, he has shaped transportation 
policy and is responsible for unprecedented improvements in aviation 
safety. He is a recognized expert on transportation issues, and he is 
known for his commitment to protecting the interests of travelers, 
riders and passengers and the rights of transportation workers.
  He has brought his policy interests to other areas as well, from his 
role on the Science, Space and Technology Committee, to his interests 
in agriculture, education and children.
  Jerry Costello is the go-to leader of the Illinois House delegation, 
and it is easy to see why. It is not just that he loves the State of 
Illinois and the House of Representatives. It is not just that he can 
put together strategies to pass legislation or bring Federal assistance 
to his district. It is his entire being, a calm but determined 
demeanor, a commonsense approach to problem-solving, and a welcoming 
attitude for his beloved constituents and his colleagues.
  Throughout my time in Congress, Jerry has been generous in sharing 
with me his time and his talents, and for that I'm extremely grateful.
  I have also been so happy to get to know Jerry's wonderful wife, 
Georgia. Georgia is the president of Southwestern Illinois College, an 
advocate for the Illinois Green Economy Network, and she also brings a 
spirit of public service to her work in improving the community.
  My dear friend, Jerry, your record of accomplishments over the past 
24 years is enormous. And while you may be retiring from the House of 
Representatives, I know that you and Georgia will continue to work to 
inspire and improve the lives of Illinoisans. I thank you for your 
friendship that I hope will endure and for all that you have done for 
our great State.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. Thank you, Ms. Schakowsky, for your comments.
  Next I want to recognize the gentlelady from Texas, who Jerry and I 
both serve on Transportation and Infrastructure and Science, Space and 
Technology with, and who's also the ranking member of the Science, 
Space and Technology Committee, Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson.
  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Thank you very much, Mr. 
Lipinski, for reserving this hour.
  And thank you, Mr. Speaker, for allowing me to speak in honor of a 
very cherished colleague and a dear friend in the U.S. House of 
Representatives.
  Congressman Jerry Costello, after 24 years of dedicated service, is 
retiring, and that is a very tall order for me to accept because I have 
served with him on both of his major committees from the time I came to 
Congress 20 years ago; and he appears to be, starting this term, a part 
of a vanishing breed of people who came here to work across the aisles.

[[Page H5905]]

  When I think of Jimmy Duncan, when I think of Mr. Young of Alaska, 
when I think of Ray LaHood, I think of the camaraderie that we have 
shared on the committees working together to get things done. And I 
look up and many of them are leaving. It's so unfortunate that we're 
losing such a stellar example of the commitment needed to be an 
effective public servant.
  He began his public service at an early age, working in law 
enforcement while attending college. He has built his career on 
bipartisanship and dependability and has always kept the needs of his 
constituents and the American people foremost in his mind and close to 
his heart.
  Congressman Costello is a devoted family man who treasures his wife, 
Georgia, and their three children and eight grandchildren. And I have 
shared with Georgia and Lynn, Jimmy Duncan's wife, trips around the 
world where we became almost like family.
  His companion has given the Congressman a unique perspective, making 
him much more effective as a Member of Congress.
  I remember one time we went on a trip, and at the last minute, 
Georgia couldn't go and we ended up being seatmates all the way. And he 
said at the end, I enjoyed you being my seatmate, but you'll never be 
Georgia. And he was right.
  I've had the distinct pleasure of working closely with Congressman 
Costello on both the House Committees on Transportation and 
Infrastructure, and Science, Space and Technology. As a matter of fact, 
I would not be ranking member had he chosen to use his seniority to 
become the ranking member of Science, Space and Technology.
  He's an effective legislator and has shown an unwavering commitment 
to furthering scientific research and building our Nation's 
infrastructure. Having served both as chairman and ranking member on 
the Aviation Subcommittee with Congressman Petri from Wisconsin, just 
like two brothers, they have been guests in my district where we did 
work together on a very bipartisan basis to improve the safety and 
innovation of the aviation industry.
  Mr. Speaker, the bonds that we form with our fellow colleagues in 
Congress are unlike anything else. You become closer in friendship, and 
you begin to see people as individuals. This last 2 years, however, has 
not been the example that I lived with 18 years before that.
  Congressman Costello and I developed, over the years, a very special 
relationship. The House of Representatives is losing a distinguished 
colleague and one of those from the old guard that we call the 
bipartisan focus on business people.
  I have immense respect for Congressman Costello, and I will miss him 
dearly. I wish him well, and I wish his family the best in future 
endeavors. And I do hope that this is not the last of a vanishing breed 
of the persons who came here to work to get things done and not be so 
partisan.

                              {time}  1800

  I really will miss the camaraderie that we shared with Jimmy Duncan, 
Don Young, Ray LaHood--all the people who can see beyond partisanship.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. Thank you, Ms. Johnson.
  Next, I want to recognize the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. 
Altmire).
  Mr. ALTMIRE. I thank the gentleman from Illinois.
  I, too, rise to pay tribute to our great colleague, Congressman Jerry 
Costello. We've spent a lot of time during this hour talking about what 
a great person Jerry Costello is, which is certainly true. He is a kind 
and decent man. He operates in a bipartisan manner, and he is a friend 
to nearly everybody in this institution. We could continue to take the 
entire hour just talking about what a very fine person Jerry Costello 
is. Yet, when you look at the legislative record over the decades of 
service that he has offered to his constituency and to the country, 
there are a few things that stand out.
  On the Transportation Committee, Jerry Costello has a long and 
lasting record of many achievements, but he also has a lot of things he 
has done back home that those of us in Washington maybe don't see every 
day. For example, when the Base Closing and Realignment Commission 
slated for closure a military base in Jerry's district, Jerry Costello 
did what is nearly impossible--he got the realignment commission to 
review the facts; he had that decision overturned; and he saved that 
military base and the thousands of jobs that go with it for his 
district. That's a lasting achievement he can be proud of.
  When you look at things on the Transportation Committee that have 
lasting significance, a changing in the law to benefit all Americans. 
There was a tragic, terrible catastrophe--an air disaster in Buffalo 
several years ago. Jerry Costello took the lead in this Congress and in 
this country in changing the laws dealing with pilot fatigue and the 
requirements for the pilots on the planes. That is going to save lives 
around this country, and that is going to allow for the averting of 
this type of disaster in the future. That happened because of Jerry 
Costello's leadership.
  So, Mr. Speaker, when we think about the lasting contributions that 
Jerry Costello has made, yes, many of them are personal. Many of them 
have to do with the relationships he has built and the friendships he 
will carry forward into his new career, but let's also remember the 
many significant legislative achievements for his district that are 
unparalleled to anyone else's in this institution.
  So, Jerry, we wish you the best. We are going to miss you.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. Thank you, Mr. Altmire.
  Next, I want to recognize the Democratic whip, the gentleman from 
Maryland (Mr. Hoyer).
  Mr. HOYER. I want to thank my friend, Congressman Lipinski, for 
taking on this Special Order.
  For someone who had been regaled, as I understand it, earlier, by his 
colleagues who know him best, before I came to the floor, this is a 
body in which you get to know people. You get to know their characters, 
their personalities, their civility, their effectiveness, their work 
ethic, their patriotism, their willingness to work with others. On all 
of those counts, all of his colleagues found Jerry Costello to be one 
of the best among them.
  Jerry Costello came to this Congress in the election of 1988. He has 
been my colleague for all of the years that he has served in this 
House. I was privileged to come just a few years before Jerry Costello. 
He was elected by the people of Illinois after an extraordinary career 
early in life, as a young man. He was not only attending to the court 
system of Illinois but also as the county executive, as the leader of 
one of the largest counties in Illinois. He was chosen because of his 
judgment, chosen because of his good sense, his common sense, chosen 
because of his effectiveness as a representative of the people. There 
has not been a day that has gone by that I have served with Jerry 
Costello that I did not have all of those affirmations affirmed here in 
this House. So I rise with my friend, Mr. Lipinski, to honor Jerry 
Costello.

  Now, we're going to have the opportunity to serve with Jerry Costello 
for another 3 months at least. Jerry Costello is very much alive. This 
is not a eulogy. Jerry Costello is someone who is still a young man for 
whom I see a very bright future. In whatever endeavor he chooses to 
pursue, he will be successful; and with whomever he works, they will be 
advantaged. In whatever he does, I know that we're all going to stay in 
close touch with Jerry Costello.
  The preceding speaker and Mr. Lipinski--and whose dad before him--now 
serve on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. It is a 
critical committee of the Congress of the United States, one of the 
most important in terms of growing jobs and expanding our economy 
because it invests in the infrastructure, which is the underpinning of 
a growing economy. My friend Mr. Lipinski has fought so hard for 
legislation to expand manufacturing--a Make It In America agenda item--
and has focused on making sure that we have had an infrastructure that 
has supported manufacturing, the distribution of goods and the 
transportation of goods to our shores to be sent abroad for purchase by 
our trading partners.
  Jerry Costello was part of the leadership of two of the major 
transportation bills that have passed this House

[[Page H5906]]

in recent years, ensuring not only that Illinois received particular 
attention but that America received particular attention, every part of 
this America. The best traditions of a Congressman are, yes, in 
representing his district effectively, but also in understanding that 
his responsibility is to all of America. Jerry Costello has fulfilled 
that expectation with flying colors and great effectiveness. We are 
going to miss Jerry Costello.
  But I want to tell Jerry Costello--and I hope he's listening--that we 
have a few days left to go, and I'm going to look forward to working 
with him. I am hopeful that, in the lame duck session, we'll address 
one of the most vexing problems confronting this country, and that is 
getting ourselves on a fiscally sustainable path. I expect Jerry 
Costello to be in the leadership of that effort as he has been in the 
leadership of so many efforts.
  Again, Congressman Lipinski, I want to thank you for your leadership, 
for your service, for your commitment to the same kinds of things that 
Jerry Costello has been committed to in building up this country and in 
making sure that average working men and women have had jobs and that 
we have expanded our economy by investing in our economy. So it is 
appropriate that you lead this Special Order on behalf of a kindred 
soul, Jerry Costello. You and he represent a real leadership on behalf 
of growth, jobs, and economic success in America.
  We thank Jerry Costello for his service, but we look forward to 
working with him in whatever capacity he chooses to follow in the years 
ahead.
  Mr. LIPINSKI. Thank you very much, Mr. Hoyer.
  I just want to wrap up here and continue on in talking about Jerry.
  I know Jerry has been extremely popular among his constituents 
because he is a lifelong resident of his district and always has been 
focused on helping them. He was born in East St. Louis, Illinois. He 
attended Assumption High School there, and later graduated from 
Southwestern Illinois College and Maryville University, which is just 
across the Mississippi River in St. Louis. After graduating with a 
bachelor's degree, Jerry worked in various positions in southwestern 
Illinois, culminating with his election to the House of Representatives 
in August of 1988 in a special election.
  He was known then and is still known today as a person with a special 
ethic and earnestness to roll up his sleeves and get the job done. 
Since that time, his accomplishments have been numerous and 
outstanding. We've heard from many of our colleagues before this about 
some of his accomplishments. I could spend hours standing up here 
listing them all, but some of his most important, recent 
accomplishments include helping to pass four national highway 
investment bills, seven Federal Aviation Administration bills, and 
helping to secure funds for a new Mississippi bridge for the residents 
of Illinois and Missouri.

                              {time}  1810

  He has a great reputation for delivering for his district. A couple 
of examples include helping prevent the closure of Scott Air Force 
Base, the largest employer in Illinois south of Springfield, and 
helping extend St. Louis' Metrolink to St. Clair County, providing 
public transportation to many thousands of people. He has received 
recognition as a leading advocate for farmers and for many other 
causes, including the arts and multiple sclerosis.
  His dedication to an effective transportation network in the U.S. has 
remained steadfast throughout his career. As Mr. Altmire has mentioned, 
a perfect example of this is his drafting and passing of the Pilot 
Training Improvement Act of 2009. In response to a tragic plane crash 
in 2009 in Buffalo, New York, that killed 51 due to lack of rest for 
the pilot, Jerry wrote a bill that made requirements for pilot rest and 
training much more stringent. This legislation has resulted in safer 
travel for millions of Americans. The legislation is a lasting reminder 
of the fine work Jerry has done while in Congress.
  During his time, Jerry has sat in positions of leadership as chairman 
of the House Aviation Subcommittee on the Transportation and 
Infrastructure Committee, now serving as ranking member, as well as the 
ranking member on the Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics within the 
Science and Technology Committee. He has always worked in a bipartisan 
manner on those committees, doing everything he could to make those 
committees work.
  I, and this legislative body, will miss Mr. Costello and the 
leadership he has provided, but we can all take comfort in knowing that 
he will be able to spend more time with his wife, Georgia, who serves 
her community as the president of Southwestern Illinois College; their 
three children, Jerry, Gina, and John Patrick; and their eight 
grandchildren, Jay, Austin, Rorey, Ireland, Jerry, Victoria, Georgia, 
and John Patrick. He will undoubtedly continue to serve his neighbors 
and all the residents of southwest Illinois in his day-to-day 
activities.
  Please join me in honoring Jerry Costello for his tireless hard work, 
dedication, and skill serving the people of America and Illinois. I 
congratulate Jerry and thank him for all he has done for his 
constituents and for his Nation. I thank you, Jerry, for your 
mentorship here in Congress, and I wish you the best as you retire from 
the House of Representatives.
  I know, as other speakers before me have said, Jerry is much too 
young to retire. I'm sure there are many great things that he will be 
doing, and he will always be remembered as a great man who served his 
country and served his constituents of Illinois. We will certainly miss 
him here, and we can certainly use more Jerry Costellos in this body.
  With that, I yield back the balance of my time.
  Mr. SHULER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Congressman 
Costello on his pending retirement and thank him for his service to his 
country and district.
  Serving in the House of Representatives since 1988, Congressman 
Costello has become a key figure in this body, serving as the dean of 
the Illinois delegation and working across lines to find sensible 
solutions to the day's most pressing challenges. Jerry has proven 
himself to be a gentleman whose dedication and service to his 
constituents and to the United States of America went above and beyond 
the Halls of Congress.
  I had the pleasure of serving alongside Congressman Costello on the 
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee where I was proud to have 
called the Congressman not only my colleague, but my friend. I observed 
as he worked to build the transportation infrastructure in Southern 
Illinois and the country. Over the years, Jerry has built a reputation 
for not only his hard work, but also his ability to work with Members 
of the other party. It is these qualities--work ethic and bipartisan 
spirit--that will be missed most in Congress.
  Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Congressman Costello on his retirement. 
While his mark on the Nation and his district are permanent, his 
presence in this chamber will be missed.
  Mr. ISRAEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my friend Congressman 
Jerry Costello, and to thank him for his 24 years of service in the 
House of Representatives working on behalf of the people of the 12th 
congressional district of Illinois.
  Jerry has worked tirelessly during his time in Congress to create 
jobs and improve the lives of the people of Southwestern and Southern 
Illinois, as well as in his role on the Aviation Subcommittee. His 
leadership in aviation is best illustrated by the passage of The 
Airline Safety and Pilot Training Improvement Act of 2009 in the House, 
the strongest aviation safety bill passed in 50 years.
  I wish Jerry the best of luck in his future endeavors, and know that 
I speak for many other Members when I say he will be dearly missed.
  Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor a dedicated 
public servant--Congressman Jerry Costello. Jerry has served the people 
of Illinois as a law enforcement officer, as St. Clair County Board 
Chairman, and as a member of this House.
  As you know, Jerry and I are from different political parties. But 
when I first came here to Washington, he was one of the first people to 
help me and to give me advice. He was always willing to answer my 
questions--some that probably seemed very basic to him. We found that 
despite our political differences, our callings were both based in 
faith--and that has allowed our relationship to grow.
  I consider Jerry Costello a close friend and confidant. I cannot 
remember a single issue relevant to our part of the state that we have 
disagreed on. It has been a pleasure joining him in working on behalf 
of Scott Air Force Base, the levee and flood insurance issues we 
continue to face, and legislation related to industries important to 
southern Illinois like coal and renewable fuels.

[[Page H5907]]

  Finally, I want to thank Jerry's wife Georgia and his children Jerry 
II, Gina and John for sharing their husband and father with all of us. 
And to Jay, Austin, Rorey, Ireland Keen, Jerry III, Victoria, Georgia 
Danielle and John Patrick--I know your grandpa is looking forward to 
spending more time with each of you.
  Thank you, Jerry. May God continue to bless the Costello family.
  Mr. MANZULLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the service of 
my colleague and good friend, Jerry Costello. I have had the privilege 
of serving with Jerry for almost 20 years. Perhaps the greatest 
compliment that I can pay him, especially in this town, is that he 
remains the same guy today that he was when I first met him in 1993. 
Jerry is a serious legislator and a thoughtful statesman. He has served 
his constituents with devotion and distinction, but more than that, he 
has worked on a broader scale to advance good policy for the betterment 
of all the citizens of Illinois and those nationwide.
  As one of the foremost transportation experts in Congress, Jerry has 
worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to improve America's 
transportation infrastructure and increase the safety of our skies. 
Jerry earned the reputation of being a hard worker and an approachable 
colleague. In his various leadership roles, you could count on Jerry to 
listen to the needs of your district and provide assistance when able. 
Even when you find yourself on the other side of a policy issue from 
Jerry, he treats you with fairness and respect. Differences of opinion 
with Jerry are never personal, and that is why so many colleagues 
consider Jerry to be a personal friend.
  Given that a Member's staff is a reflection of the Member, it should 
be no surprise that Jerry assembled a team of considerate and effective 
public servants. Along with his talented chief of staff, David Gillies, 
Jerry consistently worked to promote a constructive and collegial 
environment within the Illinois delegation regardless of which side was 
in power.
  Given his rock-solid reputation, impeccable character, and impressive 
resume of accomplishment, other colleagues will likely describe Jerry 
as part of a dying breed of statesmen, a sentiment with which I concur. 
On behalf of the constituents of Northern Illinois, I thank Jerry for 
his service and for the infrastructure improvements he supported in our 
neck of the state. I wish Jerry and Georgia all the best as they begin 
this new chapter of their lives together.
  Mr. SCHOCK. Mr. Speaker, at the beginning of the 113th Congress, the 
Illinois delegation in the House of Representatives will be missing a 
familiar face. Representative Jerry Costello, after over two decades of 
service to the people of southern Illinois, will retire at the end of 
this term. He leaves Congress with an exemplary record of 
accomplishments and a long list of friends on both sides of the aisle, 
and he will truly be missed.
  Among the many issues that Jerry worked on during his tenure, he and 
I share a passion for infrastructure improvements. During my first 
term, I served on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee with 
Jerry, and his example and determination to work with both sides to get 
things done was invaluable to me. His spirit of putting the people he 
represented before partisanship is one that all of us, his colleagues, 
strive to embody as well.
  Over the course of his time in the House of Representatives, Jerry 
earned the respect of his colleagues and staff, but his successes and 
achievements in Washington never made him forget where he came from. He 
and his family maintain their deep roots in Illinois, and every weekend 
he could be found somewhere in the 12th District holding a town hall, 
speaking at a local gathering, or participating in a media event.
  Jerry's retirement means that Illinois has lost a great 
Representative, but it retains a great citizen. Whatever he decides to 
pursue in the coming years, I hope he finds time to get some well-
deserved rest and relaxation with his wife and family. I wish him all 
the best.
  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the life 
and career of my friend, the Honorable Jerry Costello.
  Born and raised in the Midwest, Congressman Costello has dedicated 
his life to serving the residents of the state of Illinois. Prior to 
being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, he had a career in 
law enforcement and worked as a county bailiff and deputy sheriff. His 
service to the State of Illinois and St. Clair County in the early days 
of his career led him to seek office in the House of Representatives in 
a special election in 1988. He has consistently put the needs of his 
constituents first for the past 24 years.
  Today, Congressman Costello is the most senior member of the Illinois 
delegation and has been a guide to freshmen members throughout the past 
dozen Congresses. He has been a leader in areas such as infrastructure 
and science and technology. Jerry has also been dubbed ``the patron 
saint of Scott Air Force Base,'' one of the largest employers in the 
State of Illinois. Above all, the Congressman has been a fearless and 
dedicated representative of his constituents in southern Illinois.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in congratulating our 
friend and colleague, Congressman Jerry Costello, on 24 years of 
service to the residents of southern Illinois and the United States of 
America. His wisdom and leadership will be missed in the halls of 
Congress.
  Mr. CAPUANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about my friend 
Congressman Jerry Costello of Illinois. Jerry is retiring at the end of 
this session and we wish him well.
  By the time I arrived in Congress, Jerry was already a senior Member. 
I did not know him and had never heard of him. We met through our 
mutual friend, Congressman Richard Neal. We had a fair amount of mutual 
background--having been elected executive officials from our home 
states and having a deep respect for the art of politics and 
government.
  First and foremost, Jerry serves his constituents. We usually sit 
together during votes and we discuss most of them. I want to hear his 
opinion and I want to argue with him because we often see things 
differently. I know for certain that the most important factor he 
weighs for every vote is what is in the best interest of his 
constituents and what they would want him to do.
  Jerry embraces the concept of compromise. Many newer Members see 
compromise as defeat--but they are wrong and, hopefully, someday soon 
they will realize their folly. Compromise is essential to advance any 
society--our founders knew it, democracy demands it. Compromise does 
not mean declaring victory on every aspect of every issue--it means 
having a clear goal and knowing when you cannot achieve it, it means 
recognition that some progress is usually better than none, it means 
that you accept the fact that other people have valuable opinions that 
they hold as dearly as you hold yours. Unless your constituents want no 
changes to anything in life, compromise is essential.
  Jerry is also a true friend. To me, a friend is not the person who 
simply tells you how wonderful and correct you are all the time. A true 
friend knows how to tell you when you are wrong. A true friend stands 
by you when they can and doesn't hurt you when they cannot. Jerry is a 
true friend.
  Finally, Jerry Costello has his priorities straight--God, country, 
family, constituents. Religious beliefs are personal. I have told you 
what he has done for his country and his constituents. But a complete 
person also has a private life of friends and family. As a friend, I 
have often heard Jerry boast about his entire family--his parents, his 
wife, his children, and grandchildren.
  As you can see by now, I think Jerry Costello is a wonderful person. 
I will miss him on the floor. I will miss him in Committee. I will miss 
sharing an evening meal together. But more importantly, Congress will 
miss him. America will survive and prosper after he leaves Congress; 
thankfully, none of us is that important to this House. But Jerry 
Costello will not be easily replaced in these halls and he will be 
remembered as a good Member of Congress and a good man.
  Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the tireless 
service and dedication of my friend and colleague, Congressman Jerry 
Costello of Illinois. Congressman Costello has announced his retirement 
from the House at the end of the 112th Congress after 24 years of 
faithful and effective service to the people of the 12th Congressional 
District of Illinois.
  Known to his friends and colleagues simply as ``Jerry,'' Congressman 
Costello began his career shortly after graduating from high school, 
working as a law enforcement officer while attending Maryville 
University. In 1980, Congressman Costello was elected Chairman of the 
St. Clair County Board, the chief executive of one of Illinois' largest 
counties, where he gained valuable leadership experience. In 1988, 
Jerry was elected to Congress.
  I have had the privilege of working closely with Jerry throughout my 
tenure on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, on which he 
has been an influential and a senior Democratic member. Jerry is 
perhaps the leading expert in the House on aviation issues and I feel 
fortunate to have been a member of the Aviation Subcommittee when he 
chaired the panel during the 110th and 111th Congress. Congressman 
Costello also served as the second ranking Democrat on the Science, 
Space, and Technology Committee, playing a leading role in writing and 
passing several major pieces of legislation to improve our Nation's 
infrastructure and technological advancement.
  As Chair of Aviation Subcommittee, Jerry played an indispensible role 
in passing the $68 billion Federal Aviation Administration 
Reauthorization Act. Jerry has worked to pass

[[Page H5908]]

major bills for our Nation's transportation infrastructure, including 
obtaining a significant grant for a new Mississippi River Bridge. He 
also secured the passage of the Airline Safety and Pilot Training 
Improvement Act of 2009.
  Jerry has been a champion of bipartisanship throughout his tenure in 
the House, and is deeply respected by members on both sides of the 
aisle. He refused to allow partisanship to keep him from finding the 
common ground necessary to advance the interests of his constituents 
and the American people.
  Jerry's talent for finding common ground enabled him to assemble and 
lead the coalition that saved Scott Air Force Base from closure and led 
his constituents to dub him affectionately as the ``Patron Saint of 
Scott AFB.''
  I am honored to count Jerry as one of my close friends and 
colleagues. Throughout his tenure, Jerry has proven to be a shining 
example of the type of dedication and devotion we should all strive to 
match. I have long been an admirer of Congressman Costello's work, and 
we will all surely feel the loss of his presence.
  Mr. Speaker, Congressman Costello is a Member's Member: honorable, 
hardworking, selfless, and dedicated to public service. It has been an 
honor to serve with him in the People's House. I wish Jerry and his 
family success and happiness as he embarks upon the next phase of his 
remarkable career of service, all the best in his future endeavors.
  Mr. HULTGREN. Mr. Speaker, I am truly honored to have had a chance to 
serve in Congress with my colleague and friend, Representative Jerry 
Costello.
  Beloved by his constituents, Congressman Costello has been a staple 
in southern Illinois for many years. For me personally, he has been a 
model, a mentor and an example of how to succeed.
  In an age of hyper-partisanship, Congressman Costello fearlessly 
crosses the aisle for his district. Last year, he even championed the 
No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act.
  I've also had the pleasure of collaborating with the Congressman on 
two committees: Science, Space and Technology, and Transportation and 
Infrastructure. He has been such a mentor for me on these committees 
during my first term in Congress, and has been a great ally, especially 
on transportation issues and 2nd amendment rights.
  Congressman Costello will be sorely missed, both on these two 
committees and in the Illinois delegation. On behalf of my staff and 
the people of the 14th, I thank him sincerely for his service.
  Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, today, we take time to honor our friend and 
colleague Congressman Jerry Costello, who retires this year after 24 
proud years representing the 12th District of Illinois.
  Throughout his career, Jerry earned the respect of his colleagues on 
both sides of the aisle, and is known as a man dedicated to his family, 
his community, and public service.
  Born and raised in East Saint Louis, Jerry spent his career 
representing his friends and neighbors first as the Chairman of the St. 
Clair County Board, and then as a Member of Congress.
  Since coming to Washington, Jerry has worked tirelessly on behalf of 
his constituents, Illinois farmers, the transportation community and 
Scott Air Force Base. The State of Illinois will certainly miss having 
such a senior legislator and consummate professional in Congress.
  But this body's loss is the gain of the entire Costello family, 
especially his wife Georgia, their three children and eight 
grandchildren. I wish them all the best as they embark on this new 
chapter of their lives, and congratulate Congressman Jerry Costello on 
a career of service to Southwestern Illinois.
  Mr. RUSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my friend and 
colleague and the Dean of the Illinois Delegation, Congressman Jerry 
Costello. 
  Congressman Costello has been a fixture of these halls since his 
arrival in 1988. Since my own arrival to Congress in 1993, I have known 
Jerry Costello to be a kind, diligent, and caring public servant for 
the people of Illinois and the United States.
  Whether working towards FAA reauthorization, creating local jobs, or 
saving Scott Air Force Base from closure, Jerry Costello has shaped and 
improved Southwestern Illinois.
  I will miss Jerry Costello's collegiality and his leadership. Just 
because he is departing Congress does not mean there is not much work 
left for him to do. I look forward to seeing what the next chapter of 
his life brings and, on behalf of my wife, Carolyn, myself, and the 
people of the First Congressional District of Illinois, I wish him well 
on his journey.
  Congratulations, Jerry!
  Mr. SCHILLING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jerry Costello, 
who will be retiring at the end of the 112th Congress. We need more 
Members of Congress like Jerry--Representatives who are willing to 
reach across the aisle and work to get the job done regardless of 
party.
  There is no limit to what you can accomplish when you don't care who 
gets the credit. Jerry is one of those guys, and his commitment to 
Illinois and our country will definitely be missed.
  Jerry has served on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee 
and has helped enact national highway policy to improve our country's 
roads and bridges. This is a bipartisan issue and after nine term 
extensions I am glad that this Congress came together to pass the first 
multiyear highway bill since 2005. Jerry has been extremely strong on 
transportation and infrastructure issues and future representatives 
will have large shoes to fill.
  Jerry is a committed family man and early on in my first term, I 
quickly realized how hard it is to be away from your wife and children 
so frequently. I respect him for keeping his family home in Illinois, 
traveling to DC to serve, and returning home. Public service is about 
serving the people, not serving one's own self.
  Over the past 24 years, the people of the 12th district have been 
fortunate to call Jerry Costello their Congressman. His leadership, 
bipartisanship, hard work, and dedication to public service will not 
soon be forgotten. On behalf of the 17th district, I wish Congressman 
Costello a happy and healthy retirement. Than you for your service.
  Ms. BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise toddy to honor a great 
statesman, a great chairman, and a man who always put his district 
first. When Congressman Costello retires after a long and distinguished 
career of service, he will be missed not only be his colleagues, but by 
the institution of Congress itself.
  I am proud to have worked with Jerry Costello as we fought for 
critical transportation infrastructure funding to prepare our county 
for the future. His leadership as Chairman and Ranking Member of the 
Aviation Subcommittees made the world's aviation system more efficient 
and safer, while facing some of the most challenging times for the 
industry.
  I enjoyed traveling with Jerry and his lovely wife Georgia, who 
offered great support both personally and professionally for her 
husband. Together, we went on various congressional delegation fact 
finding missions to further our understanding of comparative 
transportation systems around the world, and to augment U.S. relations 
abroad, particularly with respect to cooperation in the transportation 
and infrastructure sector.
  During his many years of serving in the House, Congressman Costello 
has always been regarded as a Member who can get things done because of 
his results-oriented focus, and bipartisan approach to issues. As a 
senior Democrat on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and 
the second ranking Democrat on the Science, Space and Technology 
Committee, he has played a major role in writing several major pieces 
of legislation while focusing on improving the nation's transportation-
infrastructure system.
  Examples of his effectiveness include helping to write two national 
highway bills, securing $150 million for a new Mississippi River Bridge 
in the last highway bill--one of the largest single earmarks in the 
legislation--and the passage of the Airline Safety and Pilot Training 
Improvement Act of 2009. This legislation, the strongest aviation 
safety bill in over 50 years, enhances airline safety by significantly 
increasing the flight hours required for commercial first officers and 
strengthening pilot training.
  Additionally, Congressman Costello served four years as Chairman of 
the House Aviation Subcommittee and now serves as the subcommittee's 
senior Democrat. In 2007, he wrote and helped pass a $68 billion bill 
in the House to reauthorize the programs of the Federal Aviation 
Administration to ensure that our aviation system remains the best and 
safest in the world. Two years later, he reintroduced the legislation 
and it passed the House once again.
  In closing, Congressman Costello will be missed in Washington not 
only for his legislative accomplishments but for his good natured way 
of interacting with his colleagues and staff. A beloved family man, and 
a Member who is very well liked on both sides of the political aisle, 
Jerry contributed a great deal both to the Committee on Transportation 
and to a general feeling of political collegiality on Capitol Hill.
  Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank my colleague and 
my dear friend Representative Jerry Costello for his 24 years of 
outstanding service to his district, Illinois and the country. Although 
he is retiring from Congress at the end of this year, his impact will 
be long-lasting.
  Since arriving in Congress in 1999, I have been very fortunate to 
have Jerry Costello to rely on for advice and guidance. He and then-
Representative Ray LaHood, now Secretary of Transportation, convened 
routine meetings of the Illinois House delegation to discuss how we 
could work together to meet the needs of our state. A fierce advocate 
for

[[Page H5909]]

Southwestern and Southern Illinois, Jerry was eager to help all parts 
of the state obtain federal assistance and meet the needs of our 
constituents. Our delegation may have had disagreements on policy, but 
we were united in our desire to bring funding to Illinois to create 
jobs, improve access to health care, help farmers, and promote Illinois 
businesses.
  It wasn't until I had been in Congress for a while that I realized 
not every state delegation met in this manner. It was because of the 
leadership of Jerry Costello, his dedication to getting things done and 
his ability to work in a bipartisan manner that the Illinois delegation 
could get together not just to talk but to achieve concrete results.
  Throughout his career, Jerry Costello has been a real workhorse. As a 
senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure and ranking 
Democrat on the Aviation Subcommittee, he has shaped transportation 
policy and is responsible for unprecedented improvements in aviation 
safety. He is a recognized expert on transportation issues and he is 
known for his commitment to protecting the interests of travelers, 
riders and passengers and the rights of transportation workers. He has 
brought his policy interests to other areas as well--from his role on 
the Science, Space and Technology Committee to his interests in 
agriculture, education and children.
  Jerry Costello is the go-to leader of the Illinois House delegation 
and it is easy to see why. It is not just that he loves the state of 
Illinois and the House of Representatives. It is not just that he can 
put together strategies to pass legislation or bring federal assistance 
to his district. It is his entire being--a calm but determined 
demeanor, a common-sense approach to problem-solving, and a welcoming 
attitude for his beloved constituents and his colleagues. Throughout my 
time in Congress, Jerry has been generous in sharing with me his time 
and his talents--and for that I am extremely grateful.
  I have also been happy to get to know Jerry's wonderful wife, 
Georgia. Georgia, the president of Southwestern Illinois College and 
advocate for the Illinois Green Economy Network, also brings the spirit 
of public service to her work in improving our community.
  Jerry, your record of accomplishment over the past 24 years is 
enormous. While you are retiring from the House of Representatives, I 
know that you and Georgia will continue to work to improve the lives of 
Illinoisans. I thank you for your friendship that I hope will endure 
and for all you've done for our great state.
  Mr. GUTIERREZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to the gentleman from 
Illinois, Mr. Costello.
  Next year, at the beginning of the 113th Congress, I will reluctantly 
assume the title of Dean of the Illinois delegation in the U.S. House 
of Representatives. I say reluctantly because two things are true. One, 
to paraphrase Groucho Marx, I would never want to be a Member of a 
Delegation that would have me as its Dean. Secondly, I have tremendous 
shoes to fill and a hard act to follow.
  The current Dean is my friend, colleague, and mentor Rep. Jerry 
Costello, who will leave the House at the end of his current term. It 
saddens me that he is leaving the House and bequeathing the title of 
Dean to me.
  Jerry was re-elected twelve times to represent the people of the 
exotic and--at least to us in the City of Chicago--distant lands in 
southern Illinois, anchored by the City of Bellville, Jerry's home 
town. He has served his district, the people of Illinois and the people 
of the United States with distinction for 24 years.
  His diligent work as a senior member of the Transportation and 
Infrastructure Committee, the Aviation Subcommittee, and the Science, 
Space and Technology Committee teaches an important lesson to young 
Congressmen and women: specialize. Jerry has made transportation a 
central theme in his career and the work he has done to ensure that 
infrastructure and transportation systems in Southern Illinois are 
world class is but one testament to his success.
  Together with his wife, Georgia, the distinguished President of 
Southwestern Illinois College, I know Jerry will continue serving the 
people of Illinois in some capacity. It is in his nature.
  When I came into the House in 1993, Jerry had already been here for 
more than two terms and helped young people like me find our way. Over 
the years, we developed a friendship and a kinship. Even as Democrats 
from the same State, I could not always vote for what he supported and 
he could not always vote for what I supported, but we could always look 
beyond that.
  The people of Illinois may not even realize it yet, but they will 
miss Jerry in the House of Representatives. The Democratic Caucus 
probably doesn't realize how much we will miss Jerry. But I know how 
much I will miss Jerry and I wish him tremendous success and good luck.
  Mr. DOLD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join my colleagues in honoring 
Congressman Jerry Costello on his 24 years of service to this body and 
the great State of Illinois. As dean of our delegation, Congressman 
Costello set a great example, especially for me and other freshman 
Members from our State. He has been a helpful institutional resource 
and a strong champion for the needs of Illinois.
  Congressman Costello has a long tradition of legislative leadership, 
particularly on transportation issues. During his time in the House, he 
worked diligently with Members on both sides of the aisle to improve 
transportation infrastructure across this country. I appreciate his 
strong work ethic, and commitment to achieving results through a 
bipartisan manner, and believe this chamber and this country is better 
for it.
  Most importantly, I want to applaud Congressman Costello's unwavering 
commitment to his constituents in the 12th District of Illinois. For 
the last quarter century, he has been their strongest advocate in 
Congress, and the communities in southern Illinois have benefited 
greatly from his leadership.
  I would also like to recognize Congressman Costello's family--his 
wife, Dr. Georgia Costello, and his three children, Jerry, Gina, and 
John Patrick--for supporting him during his storied tenure. I wish 
Congressman Costello and his family all of the best as he leaves 
Congress, and hope that he finds happiness and fulfillment in all his 
future endeavors.
  Mr. KINZINGER of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, throughout his career as a 
public servant, Congressman Jerry Costello has displayed a commitment 
to his fellow citizens, starting with his career in law enforcement and 
transitioning to become a very successful court administrator. In 1980, 
he was elected chairman of the St. Clare County Board and acted as its 
chief executive for 8 years until being elected to Congress from 
Illinois' 12th district. Congressman Costello's wife, Georgia, has also 
displayed a dedication to the people and communities of southern 
Illinois, working as a teacher, school principal, administrator, and 
most recently, the President of Southwestern Illinois College.
  Throughout his 24 years in Congress, Congressman Costello has been a 
tireless advocate for the 12th district, working to improve the 
region's economy and enhance its transportation infrastructure. As a 
senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, 
Congressman Costello helped write two highway bills that included funds 
for many local projects, including the construction of the New 
Mississippi River Bridge. He led the push to construct the MetroLink 
Light Rail, a rail system connecting St. Clare County to the St. Louis 
region. In addition, Congressman Costello was instrumental in 
developing southern Illinois' clean-coal industry, working to secure 
research and funding grants for various local universities.
  Congressman Costello served four years as the Chairman of the 
Aviation Subcommittee, helping to shepherd numerous airline safety and 
Federal Aviation Administration reform bills into law. One of his most 
significant legislative accomplishments is helping to write the Airline 
Safety and Pilot Training Improvement Act of 2009, a bill that 
increased the required number of commercial pilot training hours and 
set new rules to limit pilot fatigue.
  For his work protecting and enhancing the Scott Air Force Base, 
Congressman Costello has been recognized as the base's ``Patron 
Saint.'' He championed the base through numerous rounds of the Base 
Realignment and Closure process from 1995-2005, establishing Scott as 
one of America's leading Air Force bases. His efforts not only 
preserved the base, but brought the Army's Surface Deployment and 
Distribution Command and added 800 jobs the region.
  In my two years working with Congressman Costello, I have had the 
privilege to get to know and learn from him. The Illinois delegation 
will surely miss his expertise and leadership. He leaves behind a 
legacy of being able to work with any Member, regardless of party, to 
get the job done and do what's best for the Nation. I am grateful for 
the time during which I was able to call Congressman Costello my 
colleague and friend, and wish him all the best in his future 
endeavors.
  Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to 
my good friend and fellow Illinois Representative, Congressman Jerry 
Costello.
  I can say with sincerity that Jerry Costello, after 24 years of 
dedication, has gone above and beyond in every way possible to serve 
the 12th District of Illinois and this nation. Throughout his tenure, 
Congressman Costello has worked tirelessly to improve the economic 
standing of Southern Illinois, as well as foster positive change for 
this nation.
  Jerry Costello has been one of the most ardent workers for improving 
national transportation and has received many honors and recognition 
over the years for his work on agricultural issues of great importance 
to Illinois

[[Page H5910]]

farmers. With his bipartisan approach to issues, Congressman Costello 
has garnered results time and again for the State of Illinois.
  Not only do Congressman Costello and I share this strong, cross-party 
attitude, but we also sit together on the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure. Through our work together, I have witnessed first-
hand the amount of effort and hard work that he has put into the 
improvement of transportation infrastructure in the 12th District of 
Illinois as well as nationwide. Most importantly Congressman Costello 
never left his district and always came back to Illinois after the 
session was over. This enabled him to truly stay grounded and in touch 
with his constituents.
  I would take this moment to honor Congressman Costello and all his 
years of service. Thank you, Congressman Jerry Costello and 
congratulations on your numerous achievements. I wish you the best of 
luck in all future endeavors.
  Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, as we are approaching the final days of the 
112th Congress, I want to join with so many other House Members in 
paying tribute to my friend and colleague, Representative Jerry 
Costello.
  While Jerry and I have served together on the Transportation and 
Infrastructure Committee for over 20 years, I really have come to know 
and admire him during the last six years as we have served together in 
leadership positions on the Aviation Subcommittee. Jerry was Chairman 
for four years while I served as the ranking minority member, and this 
Congress that was reversed with the Republican majority.
  But no matter which of us was Chairman, we forged a working 
relationship based on respect and a desire to work together on a 
bipartisan basis to get things done. And we have had a productive six 
years together. We passed the Airline Safety and Pilot Training 
Improvement Act of 2009, one of the strongest safety bills to pass 
Congress in a long time. We spent a number of years working on a 
comprehensive FAA reauthorization bill, which culminated in the signing 
of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 on February 14, 2012.
  We have been committed to providing oversight and support for the 
effort to modernize our air traffic control system, known as NextGen. 
As we were first starting out together with Jerry as Chairman back in 
2007, we discovered the FAA could not even succinctly tell us just what 
NextGen actually was. We determined then that a major priority for us 
was to do all that we could to make sure this program was on track, 
that the FAA was held accountable for management of the program, and 
that other stakeholders be involved and consulted in this effort. Just 
this morning, we held our final NextGen oversight hearing, and I 
believe that we have been an effective team over the years on this 
program which is so critical to the future of our aviation system.
  There has been much well-deserved concern expressed about the lack of 
civility and bipartisanship these days in the House. Jerry and I have 
shown that, even though you may not always agree, when you work through 
issues to actually accomplish something rather than just trying to 
score political points, we can do things that improve our nation.
  Jerry is one of the workhorses of the House who has been an effective 
Representative for the 12th District of Illinois. He is a decent and 
honorable man, and I consider it an honor to have served and worked 
together with him. My best wishes go to Jerry, his wife Georgia, and 
the entire family as they begin this new phase in their lives.
  Mr. LUJAN. Mr. Speaker, for more than two decades, Congressman Jerry 
Costello of Illinois has served the people of his district and his 
state with distinction. Congressman Costello represents the type of 
individual we need here in this body to advance the important business 
of our country. As a thoughtful, fair, and dedicated representative, he 
is held in high esteem by colleagues on both sides of the aisle.
  I am pleased to have had the opportunity to serve with him on the 
Science, Space, and Technology Committee and see firsthand the 
knowledge and passion that he brings to his role as a leader on the 
Committee. His Committee colleagues and I have the greatest respect for 
him, always valuing his opinion on the important issues before us.
  While Jerry will be truly missed in the halls of Congress, I thank 
him for his service and wish him well on his next endeavor. I know that 
his wife Georgia, his children, and grandchildren will be glad to have 
more time to spend with him.
  Mr. McNERNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my colleague, 
Representative Jerry Costello, who has announced his retirement at the 
end of this Congress. I am honored to have served with Jerry on two 
committees, and I respect and admire his bipartisan approach to our 
work here in Congress.
  During my first term here in Congress, Jerry addressed an issue in 
the Science Committee with the force and backing to make a real 
impression on me. He has provided us all with a model of how a leader 
can engage in robust debate with respect and an open mind. Whenever a 
colleague approached Jerry, he has always been willing to listen and 
give valuable input.
  Congressman Costello has been a wonderful leader and colleague, 
providing us with a great example of how we can accomplish things in 
Congress to benefit the areas we represent. The entire country and I 
thank Jerry for his 24 years of service to his constituents in Illinois 
and to all Americans, and while I am sorry to see him go, I wish him 
the best in his next endeavors.
  Mr. ROHRABACHER. Mr. Speaker, even though the Science Committee 
prides itself on bipartisanship, at times, the discussions got a little 
heated. Luckily, we've had Jerry Costello there to help cool things 
off. Jerry's business-like approaches and pleasant smile have always 
been a positive factor in getting things done. Unlike so many of us, 
Jerry likes to listen as much as he likes to talk. This unique 
characteristic actually enabled him to disagree in a very agreeable 
way.
  In short, even those of us who do not agree on particular issues, 
respect and like Jerry Costello. He will be missed on both a personal 
and professional level. I wish him the best because he has been one of 
the best.
  Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor my dear friend and 
colleague Congressman Jerry Costello. 
  For 24 years Mr. Costello has served the people of Southwestern and 
Southern Illinois with a will and determination I have long admired. As 
a member of the Illinois delegation, I have often looked towards his 
bipartisan work ethic and unique ability to reach across the aisle as a 
reminder of what can be achieved when lawmakers put the American people 
before themselves. Congressman Costello ``gets it.'' He's a man of 
character who has never lost sight of his ultimate purpose: to serve 
the people of Illinois' 12th District.
  Mr. Speaker, Congressman Costello is also a man who has never shied 
away from working hard to make his goals a reality. After high school, 
he worked full time as a law enforcement officer in order to pay his 
way through college. He went on to serve his community administering 
the region's court services system, and in 1980 he was elected Chairman 
of the St. Clair County Board.
  After proving his ability as a leader, the good people of 
Southwestern and Southern Illinois saw fit to send Mr. Costello to 
Congress in 1988, and he took his vision for a new regional Illinois 
transportation network to the national level. As a senior member of the 
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, he has worked tirelessly 
to expand transit, having championed the $670 million Mississippi 
Bridge between Madison County and downtown St. Louis. In addition, 
through his role on the Aviation Subcommittee, he helped pass some of 
the toughest aviation safety laws our country has seen in over half a 
century.
  It is because of efforts like these that Congressman Costello has 
established himself as one of Congress' most effective members, someone 
who can be counted on to get things done. For the past 24 years the 
people of the 12th Congressional District of Illinois could rest easy 
knowing that Congressman Jerry Costello was working hard for them in 
Washington. His constituents, and those of us who have had the pleasure 
of working with him, know that if there is a tough task or issue to 
address, Jerry Costello is the person to see it through.
  Mr. Costello has spent most of his life serving the public. He is 
admired by his family, district and his peers and rarely is there a 
member who has worked so well across party lines and accomplished so 
much during his time in office. I want to thank him for setting an 
ideal example that we should all strive for when we come to DC. It is 
part of the larger legacy he leaves in Congress, which will stay with 
many of us as we continue where he leaves off in working for the 
American people.
  Mr. Speaker, Jerry Costello's presence in the halls of Congress will 
be sorely missed. I am proud to call Congressman Jerry Costello a 
friend and wish him all the best as he heads back to Illinois to seek 
new endeavors.
  Mr. MICHAUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to my 
distinguished friend and colleague from Illinois, Jerry Costello, as he 
enters his final days serving the Prairie State in Congress.
  Jerry has been a loyal advocate and dedicated fighter for the people 
of Southern and Southwestern Illinois in the U.S. House of 
Representatives. Jerry's unyielding commitment to Illinois, however, 
dates back even further--to his early days working as a full-time law 
enforcement officer as he worked his way through college. No matter how 
far Jerry traveled, his heart has always remained with his community--
and his family, at home in Belleville.
  Since I first arrived in Congress in 2003, I have had the privilege 
of serving as a member

[[Page H5911]]

of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. During our service 
together, I have continually been impressed by Jerry's understanding of 
key issues, especially those pertaining to aviation, as well as his 
knowledge and passion for the legislative process.
  Members of Congress and influential figures on both sides of the 
aisle have praised Jerry for his willingness to work across party lines 
to get things done for his constituents and the nation. As the rough 
winds of partisanship have made getting things done in Washington 
difficult, Illinois and Congress have benefitted from an experienced 
pilot who still believes that by working together, Congress can push 
ahead through turbulence to a better flight plan for our nation.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring my friend and colleague, 
Jerry Costello, for his eleven terms in Congress and his continued 
dedication to our nation.
  Mr. BISHOP of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my good 
friend and distinguished colleague from Illinois, Congressman Jerry 
Costello. It is an honor for me to join my colleagues on both sides of 
the aisle to commend and thank him for his outstanding leadership and 
long record of service to this nation.
  As this session's adjournment and his retirement approaches, I also 
wish to take this opportunity to thank Jerry for his friendship and 
guidance as my senior colleague on the Transportation & Infrastructure 
Committee, on which I have had the honor of serving with him since I 
was first elected in 2002. When I first met Jerry, he was already a 
veteran member of this body with a broad knowledge and understanding of 
the many important and complicated issues under our committee's 
jurisdiction.
  Jerry's guidance and counsel in those early years were invaluable to 
me as a new Member. I have continued to look toward Jerry in this 
Congress as the standard-bearer for our committee with an unrivaled 
insight, institutional knowledge, and vision of the many complex issues 
facing our nation.
  As the former chairman and now ranking member of the aviation 
subcommittee, Jerry has performed a critical service in shaping federal 
aviation policies to ensure our system remains unrivaled and the safest 
in the world. As a senior member of the Science, Space & Technology 
Committee, Jerry has proven there is no stronger advocate or more 
successful champion for our nation's space program or national STEM 
initiatives to better prepare students for a 21st Century economy.
  Indeed, Jerry has achieved tremendous success and distinguished 
himself with an impeccable record of accomplishments in public service 
and leaves an indelible mark on the House of Representatives.
  Mr. Speaker, I wish Congressman Jerry Costello the best of luck in 
his future endeavors and bid the gentleman from Illinois a fond 
farewell.
  Ms. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the congressional 
career of our colleague, the gentleman and legislator from Illinois' 
12th Congressional District, Jerry Costello. It is hard to imagine this 
Congress, the Science, Space and Technology, SST, Committee, and the 
Transportation and Infrastructure, T&I, Committee without him as he 
retires at the end of the 112th Congress. I am happy that he is leaving 
on his own terms and I wish him every happiness as he moves on to the 
next phase of life.
  When I became a Member of the House of Representatives in 2008, I was 
new to elected public office. I was given the opportunity to serve on 
the SST and T&I Committees, both of which I have had the honor of 
serving with Representative Costello. As a new Member of Congress, 
there are certain members you observe and seek to emulate. Right away, 
I admired Rep. Costello's preparation, diligence, and his quiet and 
tempered leadership.
  Throughout my time in the House, I have seen Representative Costello 
exhibit these qualities time and time again. That is likely why he has 
managed a feat rare in this day and age, being admired by both 
Democrats and Republicans as a man who exemplifies public service.
  On the T&I Committee, Rep. Costello fought to make air travel safer 
with the passage of the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization 
Act of 2007. Responding to the crash of a commuter airplane outside of 
Buffalo, NY, he sought to improve safety standards to ensure better 
pilot training in 2009.
  He has fought tirelessly over his 26 years in the House of 
Representatives for his constituents by expanding critical 
infrastructure in the 12th Congressional District of Illinois, growing 
the local economy, and bringing good paying jobs to the region. 
Southern Illinois is better off to have had such vigorous and able 
leadership.
  All of us in this institution are referred to as the gentlelady or 
gentleman from the day we are sworn in as a Member of this body. 
However, Rep. Costello truly deserves that title since he is a true 
gentleman. His retirement will leave a void in this House that cannot 
be filled.
  My first four years in Congress, the House of Representatives, and 
our country are better off thanks to Jerry Costello's public service 
and efforts. I wish you Jerry, your wife Georgia Cockrum Costello, your 
children Jerry II, Gina, and John Patrick, and your eight grandchildren 
continued success, happiness, and hopefully some well-earned rest. I 
know they have been of tremendous support to you in your service to 
this House and our nation. You leave behind a legacy of service that 
others can and should aspire to.
  Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Congressman Jerry Costello, my colleague on the Science, Space and 
Technology Committee, who is retiring at the end of this Congress after 
24 years of service to Illinois' 12th Congressional district.
  Congressman Costello began serving his community long before he was 
an elected official. As a college student, Mr. Costello helped make 
communities safer by working as a law enforcement officer. Though hard 
work, dedication and leadership, Mr. Costello earned the respect and 
trust of his peers, leaders throughout the State of Illinois and most 
importantly, his community. A few years after graduating from Maryville 
University, Mr. Costello was elected as Chairman of the St. Clair 
County Commission Board. Fittingly, when his community was searching 
for an exceptional leader to replace 22-term Congressman Melvin Price, 
they turned to Mr. Costello. Over the next 24 years, he would lead his 
community through some of its most challenging times.
  When the Scott Air Force Base, one of his district's largest 
employers, was facing closure, they turned to Congressman Costello. He 
not only stood up for them, he delivered. In addition to convincing the 
Department of Defense (DOD) to keep the base open, he worked with them 
to bring hundreds of additional jobs to the region.
  Congressman Costello has worked in a bipartisan manner to make flying 
safer and strengthen our nation's infrastructure. He helped write and 
pass legislation that has pumped billions of dollars into our nation's 
infrastructure, and heightened aviation industry standards. As Chairman 
of the House Aviation Subcommittee, Congressman Costello prioritized 
passenger safety, held airline companies accountable and pushed for 
innovations rather than accept the status-quo.
  While he will be missed in Washington, through his countless 
contributions, his presence will linger. His wife Georgia, three 
children, eight grandchildren and constituents will be happy to have 
him home.
  Mr. Speaker, Congressman Costello epitomizes what it means to be a 
public servant. I am grateful for his 24 years of service to our nation 
and I encourage my fellow members of Congress to commend him for his 
service. Thank you Congressman Costello.
  Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute my friend and 
colleague, Mr. Costello on over two decades of admirable service to our 
country and especially to the people of Southern Illinois.
  I have been honored to serve with Mr. Costello as a member of the 
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, where I have seen 
firsthand his skill at working on a bipartisan basis to improve our 
nation's transportation infrastructure. As the Ranking Member of the 
Aviation Subcommittee, his patience and willingness to work with all 
Members of Congress was critical in the passage of the recent Federal 
Aviation Administration reauthorization bill.
  He has provided leadership, guidance and a long-term vision of how we 
can move our country forward. I am thankful for his friendship and 
advice over the years, and I wish him the best in his future steps.
  Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
recognize the retirement of my dear friend, Congressman Jerry Costello. 
During his tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives, his absolute 
dedication to the 12th district of Illinois, and his success in passing 
beneficial legislation has gained him the admiration of colleagues and 
constituents alike. He is fully committed to the prosperity of the 
economy, the well-being of his constituents, as well as solving the 
issues of the day.
  As a member of the House Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure, Congressman Costello made his mark through the 
improvement of the transportation industry for both his district and 
the nation. He is responsible for the creation of MetroLink extension 
in St. Clair county and for funding the construction of the Mississippi 
River Bridge. Congressman Costello is also an active member of the 
Aviation Subcommittee and the Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous 
Materials Subcommittee. He worked relentlessly to pass the Airline 
Safety and the Pilot Training Improvement Act of 2009, the strongest 
aviation safety legislation in fifty years, following a passenger jet 
crash killing fifty-one people. Congressman Costello will also always 
be remembered as

[[Page H5912]]

``the patron saint of Scott Air Force Base,'' for preventing the base's 
closure in Belleville, IL during the Base Realignment and Closure 
process and for expanding its operations.
  As a senior member of the House Committee of Science and Technology, 
Congressman Costello is known for his dedication to developing clean 
coal technology and for providing a voice for Illinois farmers and 
workers. Due to his many accomplishments, he won the ``Friend of 
Agriculture Award'' three times since 2004, the ``Labor Man of the Year 
Award'' in 2010, and countless other awards and recognitions.
  Having served with him since I was first elected into Congress, I am 
truly honored to have worked with such a dedicated and passionate 
member of the House. I am grateful to call Congressman Costello my 
friend, and I wish him the best in his future endeavors.
  Mr. BOSWELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a great colleague, 
a wonderful Member of this House, and a very dear friend, Congressman 
Jerry Costello.
  I have had the great privilege of serving with Jerry Costello on the 
House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee since I've been in 
Congress. Over the years, I have learned so much from Jerry and have 
enjoyed our partnership on the Committee.
  During his twenty-four years in Congress, Jerry has been a passionate 
advocate for his constituents and improving the transportation 
infrastructure in the Illinois 12th Congressional District. As the 
Chairman and Ranking Member of the Aviation Subcommittee, he has been a 
tireless champion of general aviation and modernizing our aviation 
system. His effective leadership and extensive knowledge of these 
issues have led to countless infrastructure improvements in his 
district and state.
  Jerry's commitment to service extended beyond Illinois. When visiting 
my home state of Iowa, Jerry took the time to meet with some of my 
constituents to understand the transportation needs of our state and 
see how potential investments would affect our communities. He took the 
concerns of Iowans as seriously as those of his own constituents and 
made certain that these concerns were addressed in Washington.
  I will greatly miss working with him, but I wish him and his family 
my very best wishes for a very bright future.
  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 
honor a cherished colleague and dear friend in the U.S. House of 
Representatives, Congressman Jerry Costello. After more than twenty-
three years of dedicated public service, Congressman Costello will be 
retiring from the U.S. Congress. Congressman Costello is a true 
statesman, and he will be sorely missed.
  Congressman Costello is a stellar example of the commitment needed to 
be an effective public servant. He began his public service at an early 
age, working in law enforcement while attending college. He has built 
his career on bipartisanship and dependability, and has always kept the 
needs of his constituents and the American people foremost in his mind 
and close to his heart. Congressman Costello is a devoted family man, 
who treasures his wife, Georgia, their three children, and eight 
grandchildren. His compassion has given Congressman Costello a unique 
perspective, making him that much more effective as a Member of 
Congress.
  I have had the distinct pleasure of working closely with Congressman 
Costello on both the House Committees on Transportation and 
Infrastructure and Science, Space, and Technology. He is an effective 
legislator, and has shown an unwavering commitment to furthering 
scientific research and building our Nation's infrastructure. Having 
served both as Chairman and Ranking Member on the Aviation 
Subcommittee, Congressman Costello continues to work with his 
colleagues on a bipartisan basis to improve the safety and innovation 
of the aviation industry.
  Mr. Speaker, the bonds that we form with our fellow colleagues in 
Congress are unlike anything else, and the friendship Congressman 
Costello and I have developed over the years is very special to me. The 
House of Representatives is losing a distinguished colleague, and the 
constituents of the 12th District of Illinois are losing a loyal 
advocate. I have immense respect for Congressman Costello. I will miss 
him dearly, and I wish him and his family all the best in their future 
endeavors.
  Mr. SIRES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished 
career of Jerry Costello. In this vast body, Jerry is well known and 
admired by Members on both sides of the aisle. Republicans and 
Democrats alike have praised his tenure since Jerry announced 
retirement last October. He has served since 1988 and I have had the 
pleasure of sitting with him on the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure for nearly five years.
  Serving four years as Chairman of the House Aviation Committee, and 
now as the Ranking Member, Jerry has been able to drive sound policy to 
make sure that America's skies are safe. Jerry wrote and played an 
instrumental role in passing legislation to reauthorize the Federal 
Aviation Administration. As a member of the Transportation and 
Infrastructure Committee, he helped write national highway bills and 
secure $150 million for the Mississippi River Bridge in his district. 
Jerry gets the job done and I have been enriched by sitting on the 
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee with him.
  Jerry has been a true and effective advocate for Illinois's 12th 
Congressional district. His list of accomplishments is long and he 
truly cares about protecting the interests of his constituents. For 
example, he was not only able to keep Scott Air Force Base open during 
several rounds of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, but 
Jerry added 800 jobs. The base is Illinois's largest employer south of 
Springfield.
  While the halls of Congress and particularly the Transportation and 
Infrastructure Committee will be less bright, I know that Jerry will 
find joy in his next journey back home in Illinois. I wish him and his 
family all the best.
  Mr. HOLDEN. Mr. Speaker, it is with great appreciation that I rise 
today to remember and honor the congressional career of my good friend, 
Jerry Costello. Jerry and I have served together for the last twenty 
years.
  Not only do I consider Jerry a dear friend, but he is also a mentor. 
He was there to provide sound advice and tutelage when I joined the 
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in the 105th Congress. He 
is widely seen as a leader in Congress on transportation issues. Jerry 
and I also worked closely together on matters concerning the people of 
Ireland. Jerry never forgot his ancestral roots in trying to better the 
lives for the Irish.
  It wasn't only in matters before Congress that Jerry provided 
guidance, but also in life. I had the great fortune of sharing the same 
travel agent as Jerry which has enriched my life greatly.
  Jerry, you will be greatly missed in this body and Congress will 
greatly miss you. I wish you all the best in your next endeavors and 
know you will bring your pragmatic approach to the task at hand.
  Mr. Speaker and fellow colleagues, please join me in celebrating my 
dear friend, Jerry Costello.
  Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my great friend and 
colleague, the distinguished senior member from Illinois, Mr. Costello, 
as he prepares to retire at the conclusion of the 112th Congress.
  Congressman Costello has been a trusted friend and mentor to me for 
the last twelve years.
  When I first arrived as a freshman Member of Congress in 2001, 
Congressman Costello was here to greet me and guide me along the right 
path.
  And over the years, I have continued to rely on his good advice and 
wise counsel.
  His departure is a great loss for the State of Illinois, the citizens 
of the 12th district, and the St. Louis regional delegation.
  For the last twenty-four years, Mr. Costello has been a tireless 
advocate for southern Illinois and metro east.
  He has been a champion for rebuilding and enhancing our 
transportation infrastructure.
  The magnificent new Mississippi River Bridge that is currently under 
construction will be a powerful symbol of his legacy of leadership.
  Congressman Costello has also been the patron saint of Scott Air 
Force Base--the largest employer in southern Illinois.
  Our region, and indeed, our nation are stronger because of his 
continuous efforts to preserve and expand this vital national defense 
asset.
  Mr. Speaker, I consider it a great blessing to have had the 
opportunity to serve with Congressman Costello and to call him my good 
friend.
  I honor him for his service to his state, the St. Louis region and 
our nation.
  And I salute him on a remarkable congressional career.
  Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of this 
body's finest members, Congressman Jerry F. Costello, for his long-time 
service to the Congress.
  Mr. Costello has worked on behalf of the people of southern Illinois 
for more than 24 years, passionately bringing their concerns with him 
to Washington and diligently partnering with his colleagues to get the 
job done.
  Beyond his service to the people of Illinois' 12th District, 
Congressman Costello has been a steadfast leader for our nation's 
transportation infrastructure. He was instrumental in the creation of 
national highway bills that have become the groundwork for a more 
prosperous America, and a tireless advocate for aviation measures that 
have made our skies safer and our airlines stronger.
  It has been a privilege to serve in this House with Congressman 
Costello, and I am proud today to stand with my colleagues and pay 
tribute to his distinguished career and leadership. We salute a 
gentleman who has

[[Page H5913]]

made a positive impact on the lives of those he has served, and who 
leaves a legacy worthy of this institution. I wish him, his wife 
Georgia, and his family well on their future endeavors.
  Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to rise and salute 
my friend and colleague, the distinguished gentleman from Illinois' 
12th district, Jerry Costello, as he prepares to conclude 24 years of 
service to his country and the people of southern Illinois as a Member 
of the House of Representatives. I have worked with Jerry regularly 
over the years on a number of bills and issues, but he and I 
collaborated especially closely these past two years on the Committee 
on Transportation and Infrastructure as we worked to pass a long-term 
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill. And at 
every juncture, I never failed to be impressed by his earnest and 
apparent desire to do right by his constituents and the American 
people.
  Jerry first came to Congress as a freshman Member of the Illinois 
Delegation after his election in 1988, but, even before he took the 
oath of office, he had already distinguished himself as a faithful 
public servant of the people of Illinois through his service in the 
state court system and then as chief executive of one of Illinois' 
largest counties. Jerry came to Congress--and this was apparent to me 
from some of my earliest collaboration with him--with a strong sense of 
duty to his constituents and to the public at large. For 24 years, this 
has been reflected in the strong spirit of bipartisanship in which 
Jerry works with our colleagues across the aisle. He finds compromises 
where others cannot.
  Whether working with Jerry to advance clean coal or to make our 
aviation system safer and stronger, I always got the sense he was 
practically an expert in the subject matter. And, indeed, he was. In 
2007, he was instrumental in helping write and secure House passage of 
a $68 billion FAA reauthorization. He worked to pass the bill again in 
2009, and he negotiated tirelessly with the other body to enact a final 
bill before the clock ran out last Congress.
  Moreover, in the aftermath of the tragic crash of Colgan Flight 3407 
in 2009, Jerry wrote and worked in a bipartisan manner to pass an 
airline safety bill that called for the strongest aviation safety 
improvements in more than 40 years. The bill made sweeping airline 
safety and pilot training reforms that have made the traveling public 
safer. Jerry's vision, knowledge, and leadership resulted in those 
reforms becoming law.
  This Congress, Jerry and I worked very closely as we negotiated with 
our House and Senate colleagues on a long-term FAA bill. Before that 
process began, there were probably some who thought ``slots'' are 
something you might find in Vegas or Atlantic City. But Jerry would 
patiently explain the other type of ``slots'' that loomed large over 
the FAA bill: slots for airlines to fly to Washington National Airport. 
Explaining slots--or any complex aviation issue, for that matter--Jerry 
would boil down years of legislation, rulemaking, and airline mergers 
and bankruptcies into a few simple words that reflect his good 
Midwestern common sense.
  When Jerry retires at the end of this Congress, we will lose the 
benefit of his institutional memory, his knowledge of aviation issues 
from top to bottom, and his bipartisan approach to solving problems and 
finding common ground. I have no doubt that Jerry's family--his wife, 
Georgia, his daughter and two sons, and his eight grandchildren--are 
looking forward to having him closer to home for longer periods of 
time. On behalf of my colleagues, I would like to thank them for 
sharing Jerry with us for these 24 years. His good work has made a 
tremendous difference not only for the people of his district, but for 
every American who flies, drives, or takes a train in this country.
  Mr. Speaker, with great admiration, I salute my friend as he prepares 
to retire from this body, and I join with my colleagues in extending to 
him every best wish in his future endeavors.

                          ____________________