John Buechner: “Thank you, Mr. Speaker pro tem, and all of you for being with us this morning. We are especially grateful to Speaker…”

“Thank you, Mr. Speaker pro tem, and all of you for being with us this morning. We are especially grateful to Speaker Hastert for taking the time from his busy schedule to greet us and give us his warm welcome. It is always an honor and a privilege to return to this magnificent institution. We revere it and we have shared so many memorable experiences here that I think it is indelibly inked into our psyches. Service in Congress is both a joy and a heavy responsibility. Whatever your party affiliation, we have great admiration for those who continue to serve here, serve their country, serve their constituency in this rather unique institution. We thank all of you who have served and all those who continue to serve, and we thank those who are here for giving us the opportunity to report on the activities of the U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress. This is our 36th annual report to Congress. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members be permitted to revise and extend their remarks.”