Vernon Ehlers: “I have to say that when I first appeared before the Committee on Rules a few years ago as a trembling freshman and…”

“I have to say that when I first appeared before the Committee on Rules a few years ago as a trembling freshman and presented my case on an amendment, it was interesting to watch the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Moakley). He initially was shuffling papers, then he began listening to me, and then he turned to the person next to him and I could see him say, 'Who is this guy?' And after I made the presentation, he made some complimentary comments and took the trouble after the meeting to come and speak to me about my proposal and explain how it could be improved. That was the beginning of a friendship. And even though I cannot claim the close friendship that some of the old-timers here have, it has always been a good relationship. We joke with each other, we talk with each other, we always greet each other in the hallways. He always strikes me as what a longstanding Member of Congress should be, a kindly older gentleman who is helping and aiding those around him and always cheerful, always helpful, and always trying to help us do our best for the country. We need more Members like that.”