Gerald Ford actually said...

"I am proud to say to George and his lovely wife Helen that I consider them among the very best friends that I have ever had in the Government of the United States."

"I know that George Mahon has done a super job."

"I certainly would pin that label on George Mahon."

"He is one man that I have found in my years in the Congress and elsewhere who, in all sincerity and with deep conviction, did put his country above his party."