On the recordMarch 1, 2011
I am pleased to join the Speaker of the House to honor a committed public servant, a woman of this House, a key thread in the fabric of the congressional staff, who retires today after 54 years of service: Pat Kelly. Fifty-four years of service. Since arriving as a committee staffer in 1957, Pat Kelly has worked behind the scenes on behalf of the American people--never asking for recognition, never looking for the limelight. The daughter of Congresswoman Edna Kelly, Pat said she came to Washington because, in her words, "I just felt the urge to do something." And for more than half a century, she did far more than her fair share. Pat Kelly has served in many roles on Capitol Hill. In all, she helped Members to do their jobs and worked tirelessly on issues important to her and critical to our country's future. Few issues played a larger role for her than the fight for women's rights. In 1962, she helped her mother pass the first equal pay bill and watched with pride as President John F. Kennedy signed it into law. As a legislative aide to former Congresswoman Martha Griffiths, Pat fought for the Equal Rights Amendment--continuing the march for equality, advancing the cause of justice for all women. Thank you, Pat. We're all in your debt.
