[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 99 (Thursday, July 11, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1049]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         CELEBRATING BILL GRAY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                             HON. AL GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, July 8, 2013

  Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to honor the 
memory of a noble public servant and trailblazer, Congressman William 
Herbert Gray, III. Congressman Gray served in Congress, representing 
Pennsylvania's Second Congressional District, with exceptional 
distinction and preeminence. He eventually became the first African 
American to be both the Chairman of the House Committee on the Budget 
and Majority Whip of the House of Representatives.
  As a leader in Congress and proud member of the Congressional Black 
Caucus, Congressman Gray used his compassion and experience to boldly 
fight for those considered the least the world over. Congressman Gray's 
impassioned fight against Apartheid in South Africa and for assistance 
to the poor were the hallmarks of his time in the House of 
Representatives.
  Mr. Speaker, I am fortunate enough to say that I figuratively stand 
on the shoulders of pioneers like Congressman Gray. I would not be 
where I am today without the work and sacrifice of individuals like 
him. I believe that when history records the legacy of Congressman 
Gray, it will honor his role as a trailblazer and passionate advocate 
for the least.

                          ____________________