Bob Franks: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 118 designates the Federal building in Austin, Texas, as the ``J.J. `Jake' Pickle Federal Building.''…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 118 designates the Federal building in Austin, Texas, as the ``J.J. `Jake' Pickle Federal Building.'' Congressman Pickle began his long career in public service by serving 3 rac{1}{2} years with the United States Navy in the Pacific during World War II. Following the war, Congressman Pickle returned to Austin, Texas, and held positions in the private and public sectors. He served his party ably as executive director of the Texas State Democratic Party. In 1963, he was elected to the United States House of Representatives in a special election to fill a vacant seat created by Congressman Thornberry's resignation. He was then reelected to the next 15 succeeding Congresses, until his retirement on January 3, 1995. During his tenure in Congress, Congressman Pickle provided a strong voice on civil rights issues. He vigorously advocated and supported such historic legislation as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act. For over 30 years Congressman Pickle continuously worked on behalf of civil rights issues and equal opportunities for women and minorities. In addition, as chair of the Committee on Ways and Means' Subcommittee on Oversight and the Subcommittee on Social Security, he worked to shape the system of Medicare to assure that it fulfilled its intended purpose of providing basic health care for those in need, and tirelessly fought for the future of Social Security.”