On the recordSeptember 12, 2012
It is my pleasure to honor a dedicated public servant--Congressman Jerry Costello. Jerry has served the people of Illinois as a law enforcement officer, as St. Clair County Board Chairman, and as a member of this House. As you know, Jerry and I are from different political parties. But when I first came here to Washington, he was one of the first people to help me and to give me advice. He was always willing to answer my questions--some that probably seemed very basic to him. We found that despite our political differences, our callings were both based in faith--and that has allowed our relationship to grow. I consider Jerry Costello a close friend and confidant. I cannot remember a single issue relevant to our part of the state that we have disagreed on. It has been a pleasure joining him in working on behalf of Scott Air Force Base, the levee and flood insurance issues we continue to face, and legislation related to industries important to southern Illinois like coal and renewable fuels. Finally, I want to thank Jerry's wife Georgia and his children Jerry II, Gina and John for sharing their husband and father with all of us. And to Jay, Austin, Rorey, Ireland Keen, Jerry III, Victoria, Georgia Danielle and John Patrick--I know your grandpa is looking forward to spending more time with each of you. Thank you, Jerry. May God continue to bless the Costello family.
