[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 168 (Wednesday, October 23, 2019)]
[House]
[Page H8450]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO COLONEL TOM C. ``IKE'' MORRIS

  (Mr. ROY asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. ROY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a constituent of 
the 21st Congressional District of Texas. This man was a hero, veteran, 
and the oldest known graduate of Texas A&M University, the alma mater 
of my bride. His name was Colonel Tom C. ``Ike'' Morris.
  Colonel Morris passed away Sunday in San Antonio at the age of 109 
years old, leaving behind a life and legacy all of us can only aspire 
to someday.
  Colonel Morris is the epitome of what the Greatest Generation 
embodied. He worked five jobs to stay in school during the Depression 
and graduated from Texas A&M with a bachelor's degree in agriculture.
  Working his way through school didn't stop him from being an engaged 
member of the Aggie community. He was senior class president, chaired 
the committee that set the first requirements for seniors to earn the 
famous Aggie Ring, and was a member of the track and field team.
  He also knew what it meant to fight for a man's right to live free. 
He fought in the 38th Infantry of the 2nd Infantry Division in World 
War II. He went on to land on Omaha Beach during the invasion of 
Normandy and, with his unit, he liberated the first city in France.
  Colonel Morris married his high school sweetheart, and they were 
married for 77 years.
  Colonel Morris celebrated his 109th birthday this August. When asked 
about the secret to living a long life, Colonel Morris said, ``Do your 
best.''
  We could improve from adhering to such sage, simple advice.
  Colonel Morris, we thank you for your service and for leading a life 
worthy of example. May you rest in peace now. God bless you, sir.

                          ____________________