Rob Andrews: “this Nation and the great State of New Jersey has lost one of its foremost public servants. Congressman Peter Rodino was…”

“this Nation and the great State of New Jersey has lost one of its foremost public servants. Congressman Peter Rodino was a man who truly honored the law, and when the country called on him in time of crisis, Mr. Rodino rose to greatness. I will always remember Peter Rodino for faithfully honoring the values that brought him to prominence in our Nation's history: honesty, humility, patience, and service. Peter Rodino represented the district of New Jersey in which he lived his whole life. Born in Newark, he worked his way through law school and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1941. He was awarded the Bronze Star for valor during World War II. He continued to serve his country in the House, elected to the 81st Congress in 1949. He served for 40 years, retiring in 1989, and turning his seat over to my friend, the Honorable Donald Payne. Most of us will remember Peter Rodino for his superb leadership of the House Judiciary Committee during the Nixon Impeachment Hearings. His patient and deliberative style gave the proceedings real credibility, and helped to hold the country together at a time of great upheaval. His reverence to the Constitution ensured that the painful and difficult hearings proceeded as our forefathers had envisioned. Peter Rodino was called upon by his country in time of crisis, and he rose to the challenge. Peter Rodino will be sorely missed. In an age of bitter partisanship, Mr. Rodino was a calming voice.…”