    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 6 (Monday, February 18, 2008)]
    [Page 180]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on the Death of Representative Thomas P. Lantos

    February 11, 2008

        Laura and I are saddened by the death of our friend Congressman Tom
    Lantos.
        Tom was a man of character and a champion of human rights. After
    immigrating to America more than six decades ago, he worked to help
    oppressed people around the world have the opportunity to live in
    freedom. As the only Holocaust survivor to serve in Congress, Tom was a
    living reminder that we must never turn a blind eye to the suffering of
    the innocent at the hands of evil men. I appreciate his vision in
    cofounding the Human Rights Caucus. I also appreciate his efforts to
    protect our environment, alleviate the sufferings caused by HIV/AIDS,
    and strengthen our friendships and alliances around the globe.
        We will miss Tom's leadership in the Halls of Congress. Our thoughts
    and prayers are with his wife, Annette, their daughters, and the rest of
    the Lantos family.