James Oberstar: “I join in supporting this legislation, a fitting and appropriate tribute to one of the most decent people ever to serve…”

“I join in supporting this legislation, a fitting and appropriate tribute to one of the most decent people ever to serve in the U.S. Senate, Mark Hatfield. A student, practitioner of the legislative art and science, a teacher of public service throughout his public life, a person whose personal life has mirrored his public life of integrity, honesty and decency, he has championed conservation and environmental causes, supported and protected our national forests and parks. He has called for reform in our health care system. Years ago I remember him very distinctly as an advocate for nuclear arms control. There are few people who cross our paths in public life who have, who display that kind of broad concern, genuine, deep humanitarian, felt concern and exemplify it in their public practice and in their personal life. To name a building in honor of such a Member reflects credit not only on him, on the people of Oregon who elected him, but on the entire U.S. Congress.”