Political Quotes

“I am honored to remember former Member of the House of Representatives Lionel Van Deerlin, who passed away on May 18, 2008, at the age of 93. Lionel Van Deerlin, affectionately known as ``Van,'' served in Congress for over 18 years, representing San Diego. His legislative legacy includes a key role in revising the Federal laws to permit California to set tougher emission standards than the rest of the Nation. As chairman of the House Subcommittee on Communications, he actively worked to update the 1934 Federal Communications Act in order to keep up with changing technologies. A leader in ethics, he was among the first congressional leaders to voluntarily disclose his personal finances. Lionel was born in Los Angeles, CA, on July 25, 1914, and grew up in north San Diego County. He attended the University of Southern California, where he was editor of the Daily Trojan, and graduated in 1937. After graduation, he worked in journalism until World War II. Lionel honorably served our Nation in the U.S. Army, returning to journalism and San Diego after the war. A gentleman, a statesman, and a friend to all, Van earned the respect of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle. He tirelessly worked on behalf of the people of San Diego. His legacy is substantial in San Diego--he helped to establish the Naval Medical Center San Diego as well as a Veterans' Administration hospital. Lionel's spirit continues in the generations of leaders he mentored and counseled.”