[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 17139]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               IN HONOR AND RECOGNITION OF MORRIS PETTUS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 13, 2012

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of 
my friend, Morris Pettus, for his unyielding service, accomplishment 
and leadership as a key member of my Congressional staff.
  For nearly 10 years, Mr. Pettus worked with expertise, compassion and 
perseverance in addressing numerous issues of constituent concern. From 
veterans and military issues, to critical cases involving individuals 
in immediate crisis--he approached everyone who sought assistance with 
unwavering respect and dignity, working diligently to find a solution.
  Mr. Pettus' concentration in the area of Veterans Services was 
invaluable to the citizens of northeast Ohio. As a liaison connecting 
veterans with local and Federal agencies, his work enabled thousands of 
veterans and active military members to find resolutions across a wide 
array of casework. Most significantly, Mr. Pettus' expertise and 
determination enabled countless veterans and their families to obtain 
crucial medical and disability benefits they rightfully earned and 
deserved.
  Mr. Pettus quickly emerged as a trusted leader in my Congressional 
office. His positive energy, strong work ethic, insightful nature and 
wonderful sense of humor easily drew staff members to him, and he 
cultivated not only dynamic working partnerships, but lifelong 
friendships with his Congressional Staff colleagues.
  His ability to connect with others extended outside the District 
Office, where he effectively represented me at numerous events, forming 
vital bonds with community leaders throughout northeast Ohio. Everyone 
from colleagues to Members and leaders within our Cleveland community 
consistently sought his collaboration, ideas and advice. His influence 
upon all of our lives is immeasurable.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition 
of Morris Pettus, whose service as a member of my Congressional staff 
reinforced and advanced my work as a United States Congressman. His 
ability to tackle difficult cases on behalf of countless citizens, 
especially our veterans, served to empower, uplift and renew their 
lives. His service, framed by integrity and heart, will forever impact 
our entire community.

                          ____________________