Tom Tancredo: “I rise today to deliver a tribute to M. Scott Billingsley, legislative director for Colorado's Sixth Congressional…”

“I rise today to deliver a tribute to M. Scott Billingsley, legislative director for Colorado's Sixth Congressional District from December 15, 2001, to March 25, the day of his death. First and foremost, I am honored today to share with you Scott's dedication to his career, his fellow man and his country. Mr. Speaker, my staff and I were given the great privilege of working with Scott for the last few months of his life. When Scott became my legislative director this past December, he instantly gained my respect and, more importantly, generated a sense of enthusiasm in his office which empowered my staff to reach their personal best and to strive to work toward perfection. Scott's infectious personality and poise drew people close to him. We instantly enjoyed getting to know him and were eager to learn from him. Scott possessed a rare gift that allowed him to do his job thoroughly, in a way that nurtured the work ethic of his peers while at the same time enabled him to act as a mentor. Mr. Speaker, we were blessed to have Scott in our lives. Scott will always be remembered as a person who lived life to the fullest, with a passion for knowledge and a sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of those around him and the people of Colorado's Sixth Congressional District. The news of his sudden death saddened all of us beyond words. His presence is irreplaceable, his character exceptional.”