Lucille Roybal-Allard: “I rise to remember our friend, Congressman Frank Tejeda. Frank's commitment to his constituents, family and country was…”

“I rise to remember our friend, Congressman Frank Tejeda. Frank's commitment to his constituents, family and country was unparalleled. Often when we walked from our offices, in the Cannon House Office Building, to the Chamber, Frank expressed regret that there were not more hours in a day to accomplish his goals and serve his constituents. Sadly, the years afforded Frank were too short as well. Yet, Frank made the most of the time he was given. His spectacular ascent from high school dropout to Member of Congress, alone, is eloquent testimony to his drive and dedication. Frank's success derived from his renowned discipline. As a proud marine, this self-described 'grunt' exemplified the American dream. His hard work and single-minded focus enabled him to overcome every obstacle, except the final hurdle of cancer. And, even then, Frank fought the good fight. Where most people would have retreated upon diagnosis, Frank fought to return to the work he loved--serving the people of Texas' 28th district. Whether serving as a marine in Vietnam, obtaining his high school equivalency, completing graduate programs at Berkeley, Harvard, and Yale or representing his constituents, Frank tackled each challenge with a sure sense of responsibility. Frank felt that he owed this country for providing him with opportunity. He repaid the perceived debt fully, by serving in war and in peace. My condolences go out to Frank's family.”