[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 17941]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                      THE LOSS OF PHIL RUHLE, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 1, 2008

  Mr. LANGEVIN. Madam Speaker, it is with profound sorrow that I rise 
to recognize the loss of an important local figure, Captain Phil Ruhle, 
Sr., affectionately known to so many as Captain Phil. A resident of 
North Kingstown, Rhode Island, Captain Phil was lost at sea on July 
23rd when his fishing boat capsized off the New Jersey shore. I join 
his family and the people of Rhode Island in mourning this great loss.
  An experienced fisherman who spent the majority of his life fishing 
the Atlantic Ocean, Captain Phil was deeply devoted to his career, and 
his passion for responsible fishing was unparalleled. Born in 
Oceanside, NY, he moved to Rhode Island early in life. He hails from a 
long line of fishermen, including his grandfather, father and brother, 
and his son has followed in his footsteps. Throughout his life, Captain 
Phil was tested many times. Twice before, he was aboard a fishing 
vessel that sank. However, despite those setbacks, he continued to 
persevere and pursue his passion in life.
  Captain Phil will be remembered as one who strongly advocated for 
those in his field, applying his vast knowledge and determination to 
serve as a key voice for the fishing industry. Most notably, he worked 
with fishermen and researchers to develop the ``Eliminator'' trawl, 
designed to catch haddock while reducing by-catch of cod and flounder, 
permitting a faster recovery of depleted stocks and benefiting the 
entire industry. I had the opportunity to see the trawl first-hand just 
a few weeks ago on a visit to Galilee, Rhode Island. While there, I 
also had the pleasure of discussing a variety of policy matters with 
the Captain's son, Phil, Jr. I know his dad would have been proud of 
his deep knowledge and commitment to the issues that impact their 
industry.
  Captain Phil engaged deeply in policy matters, representing Rhode 
Island on the New England Fisheries Management Council. He was a 
familiar face in my office, frequently visiting and calling to keep us 
apprised of the most recent developments in fisheries policy and 
regulations. I appreciated his advice and his counsel, and he will be 
deeply missed.
  Captain Phil is survived by his mother, Gloria, his wife, Donna, his 
children Phil Jr., Roger, and Alicia, and seven grandchildren. May we 
keep his loved ones in our thoughts and prayers as they endure this 
difficult period.
  With this loss, we are reminded that fishing is an important but 
dangerous profession. I ask that we all remember the sacrifices that 
have been made and that we pray for the safe return of all those away 
at sea.

                          ____________________