Political Quotes

“I rose with my colleague the gentleman from California (Mr. Cunningham) a few minutes ago to talk a little bit about Admiral Jim Stockdale, a Medal of Honor winner; Jim Stockdale, POW; Jim Stockdale, an overall great American, who passed away leaving a wonderful family, but leaving also a family of Americans, all those people who have flown aircraft in the skies of the world, projecting American air power and protecting American freedom. I thought it was appropriate that I stand here tonight talking about Jim Stockdale with another great Navy pilot, the gentleman from California (Mr. Cunningham), who on 10 May, 1972, south of Hanoi, was shot down by a SAM missile after he had shot down his third MiG. He ejected and, thankfully, was picked up by a Marine rescue helicopter and so therefore did not have to suffer the 7 years of imprisonment that Jim Stockdale suffered. I thought, Mr. Speaker, it would just be important for us to once again recognize this enormous hero of the United States, a leader, a hero, a great model for all of us and for all those fighting in the war against terror right now, a wonderful figure for us to emulate in terms of following duty, honor and country. Mr. Speaker, I yield to my friend, the gentleman from California (Mr. Cunningham), and will listen to his memory of Jim Stockdale.”