[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 150 (Wednesday, December 10, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1783]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING CONGRESSMAN JOHN DINGELL ON HIS RETIREMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 9, 2014

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend a warm goodbye to the 
Dean of the House, John Dingell, who I am honored to call my dear 
friend of over forty years. The people of Michigan's 12th congressional 
district as well as the people across the nation are truly grateful for 
the devotion and leadership that he has provided over the last half 
century in Congress.
  John has certainly demonstrated what it means to be a true American 
patriot and hero. A fellow veteran, he is currently one of two World 
War II veterans still serving in Congress leaving Texas Republican 
Ralph Hall as the sole member who served in World War II.
  John has made it his life's work to fight to protect the health and 
well-being of both our people and our planet, and we have all benefited 
from his hard work and many accomplishments during his tenure. John 
acted as the driving force behind imperative legislative initiatives 
like the Clean Water Act of 1972, the Clean Air Act of 1990, and the 
Endangered Species Act.
  Through dedication and an everlasting thirst for public service John 
has made an indelible impact in this institution. His charismatic 
candor will be missed. I will always be thankful that John fought 
alongside me in Congress in times of both good and bad. I know John 
will remain a voice of reason in our nation.

                          ____________________