[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 2]
[Senate]
[Page 1718]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO MR. CLAY SWANZY

 Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. President, I want to take a few moments 
today to make some remarks in appreciation for the Alabama 
Congressional delegation's most senior staff member, Mr. Clay Swanzy. 
Originally from Greensboro, AL, one of Alabama's most charming towns, 
Clay retired in November after 31 years of service to the U.S. 
Congress.
  Mr. Swanzy has served on the congressional staff of three different 
distinguished Alabama congressmen: former Congressmen Jack Edwards of 
Mobile and Bill Dickinson of Montgomery, and most recently Congressman 
Terry Everett of Enterprise. He was known on the staff of each 
congressman for his hard work, dedication to duty, and loyalty. In 
1971, former Congressman Jack Edwards hired Clay away from his position 
as a political reporter for the Mobile Press Register to become his 
press secretary in Washington. Clay remained with Congressman Edwards 
until Congressman Bill Dickinson of Montgomery offered him a position 
as his chief of staff. In 1993, when Congressman Dickinson retired, 
Clay remained in Washington as the chief of staff for Dickinson's 
successor, Congressman Terry Everett.
  After managing Congressman Everett's office for 10 years, Clay 
decided to retire from public service in Washington and return to 
Alabama.
  Clay always enjoyed working behind the scenes, outside the glare of 
the political spotlights. His departure is a loss for the Second 
Congressional District and the State of Alabama. All who knew and 
worked with him will miss him.
  On more than one occasion I have sought and received good advice from 
Clay. During his years of service he has learned much. He never panics, 
and always thinks clearly and with compassion for those involved. He is 
a strong leader, but one who leads by wisdom, thoughtfulness, insight 
and grace rather than threats or bluster. The people of Alabama have 
benefited greatly from his leadership. I, as well as many other 
government officials, have benefited greatly from his service. Clay has 
always been a leader among Alabama's delegation staff. They have valued 
his judgment, insight, and experience.
  We will certainly miss Clay, but he has earned his retirement. As 
proof that his long tenure in Washington has not turned his head, I am 
pleased to note that he has chosen to make his retirement home, back in 
Alabama, in beautiful Baldwin County. Clay, we thank you for your 
friendship and service and wish you Godspeed.

                          ____________________