Cliff Stearns: “I would like to join my colleagues from Florida in recognizing our good friend, the gentleman from Florida [Mr. Gibbons]…”

“I would like to join my colleagues from Florida in recognizing our good friend, the gentleman from Florida [Mr. Gibbons] 50 years ago, he was one of those heroes who helped win the battle of Normandy. Having just returned from France, I would like to emphasize to every American the tremendous pride that we should all feel in what Sam Gibbons and all those who fought at Normandy accomplished. The tribute to the veterans of D-day was one of the most moving experiences I have ever had, as well as the tremendous appreciation the French people showered on them. Sam Gibbons was one of the first to land on the European continent. He was one of those who worked behind enemy lines with the ``clickers'' which we heard so much about during the commemoration. The courage and leadership he exhibited then was extraordinary. And we have been fortunate that, 50 years after D-day, he continues his service to the American people here in the House of Representatives. So, along with our other colleagues in the House, Tom Bevill and our minority leader Bob Michel, and all Americans who served at Normandy, I would like to salute my colleague Sam Gibbons as a true American hero.”