Chris Smith: “Let me urge all of my colleagues to vote for H.R. 4608, offered by my good friend and colleague, the gentleman from…”

“Let me urge all of my colleagues to vote for H.R. 4608, offered by my good friend and colleague, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. LaHood), which would name the outpatient clinic in Peoria after the very distinguished former minority leader, Bob Michel. I cannot think of a person more deserving of this honor. Bob Michel had an illustrious career as a Member of this body for 38 years. Having been elected in the 85th Congress, Bob was the minority leader for 14 years of his time here. Prior to that, he was the whip for three Congresses. Aside from his political career, Bob Michel was a distinguished veteran of World War II. He is a guy that served honorably, rarely talks about it, was honored by our country for his valor, and for his suffering with a Purple Heart, and he is a real example of the greatest generation. He continues to give and to give mightily. Bob set an example as minority leader of statesmanship and civility in both his words and his actions.”