[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16738]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



[[Page 16738]]

                          EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

                       IN HONOR OF JOHNNY UNITAS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BRIAN D. KERNS

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 12, 2002

  Mr. KERNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to an individual who 
many consider to be the greatest quarterback of all time, Johnny 
Unitas.
  The Johnny Unitas story is one that serves as an inspiration to us 
all.
  Hailing from what once was called ``low rent Pittsburgh,'' his rags 
to riches career began in 1955, when he was drafted in the 9th round, 
but then cut, by the Pittsburgh Steelers.
  A year or so later, after playing semi-pro ball for $6 a game, Unitas 
signed a pro contract with the Baltimore Colts.
  His career then skyrocketed, and he was a key player in the Colts 
1958 championship victory over the Giants. That contest came to be 
known as the greatest game ever played.
  Always known for his black high top shoes, Johnny U. passed for over 
40,000 yards in his career, which was highlighted by throwing a 
touchdown in an N.F.L. record 47 consecutive games. This is a record 
that still stands and one that some say is unbreakable.
  A few years ago, here in the Nation's Capitol, it was my honor to 
meet Mr. Unitas and shake his hand. I can tell you he was truly a 
gentleman.
  As you may know, the Baltimore Colts eventually moved to my home 
State of Indiana.
  In honor of Johnny Unitas, there are reports that current Colts 
quarterback Peyton Manning will be wearing black high tops this Sunday, 
when the Colts play the Miami Dolphins.
  I think I speak for many when I say Johnny Unitas, #19 of the 
Baltimore Colts, was one of the toughest and greatest players to ever 
grace the football field.
  Johnny Unitas embodied what it means to be an American. He chased the 
American Dream. Despite the odds . . . through hard work, determination 
and sheer guts, he became a champion N.F.L. quarterback.
  On behalf of the millions of fans that admired your play on the field 
let me say thanks for all the great memories.
  God bless you Johnny Unitas and may he watch over your family.

                          ____________________