Benjamin Gilman: “it is with mixed feelings, sadness and pride that I rise in support of this Resolution designed to pay tribute to one of…”

“it is with mixed feelings, sadness and pride that I rise in support of this Resolution designed to pay tribute to one of the legislative giants of the 20th Century; indeed, to one of the greatest legislative leaders in the history of our republic. The sudden, unexpected passing of ``Tip'' O'Neill early this year left a void which will not soon be filled. ``Tip'' was always so full of life, so determined, and so energetic, that most of us assumed he would always be with us. I had the privilege of serving in the House with ``Tip'' O'Neill during the last fourteen years of his career. For the last ten of those years, he was our Speaker. Despite the fact that he and I sat on opposite sides of the aisle, he never hesitated to offer sage advice, or a friendly handshake. Some observers have labelled ``Tip'' O'Neill the last of the old time politicians and, at the same time, one of the best of our political leaders. While his colorful style and strong convictions made him an effective leader and a household word, his charisma and obvious charm made him a hero for the television generation. ``Tip'' was a man of the people who never forgot his roots. His father always admonished him to remember from ``whence he came'' and he always did. ``Tip'' remembered his blue collar background and his working class antecedents, and never forgot that these were the Americans to whom he owed his first allegiance.”