    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book I)]
    [March 5, 2000]
    [Page 391]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Legislation To Award the Congressional Gold Medal to
    John Cardinal O'Connor
    March 5, 2000

        The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor bestowed
    by the U.S. Congress. Today I am proud to sign legislation ratifying the
    decision of the Congress to present this award--the first Gold Medal of
    the new millennium--to His Eminence John Cardinal O'Connor.
        For more than 50 years, Cardinal O'Connor has served the Catholic
    Church and our Nation with constancy and commitment. From his early days
    performing parish work in his native Philadelphia, to his long service
    as a military chaplain in places like Korea and Vietnam, to his 16 years
    leading the Archdiocese of New York, Cardinal O'Connor's journey of
    faith has been America's blessing.
        Whether it was the soldier on the battlefield or the patient
    battling AIDS, Cardinal O'Connor has ministered with a gentle spirit and
    a loving heart. Through it all, he has stood strong as an advocate for
    the poor, a champion for workers, and an inspiration for millions. He
    has worked tirelessly to bridge divides between those of different
    backgrounds and faiths, reminding us that the most important thing we
    share is our common humanity.
        Cardinal O'Connor has always had the courage to speak his mind and
    act on the firmness of his convictions. In recent months, we have seen
    his courage on display once more in the face of illness. Today, as our
    Nation salutes Cardinal O'Connor, we thank him for dedicating his life
    to lifting the lives of others.

    Note: H.R. 3557, approved March 5, was assigned Public Law No. 106-175.