Benjamin Gilman: “I want to express my shock and my sadness to the surprising announcement that our dear colleague the gentleman from New…”

“I want to express my shock and my sadness to the surprising announcement that our dear colleague the gentleman from New York (Mr. Solomon) has now chosen to leave this body at the end of this congressional session. I came to know and admire my colleague soon after he came to the Congress in 1978. His experiences as a United States marine, and he reminded us of that service continually, as a town supervisor, as a county legislator, as a member of the New York State Assembly, as well as his experience in the insurance business and real estate business brought to this Chamber the unique combination of experience of balance and of common sense. I especially appreciate the gentleman from New York championing the cause of our POWs and MIAs in Southeast Asia. He earned a reputation for his leadership on that issue and many important issues, and I know my colleagues join with me in expressing our appreciation for the judicious manner in which he has chaired the House Committee on Rules for the past 3 years. Congress' loss is a gain for Freda and their five children. We wish the gentleman from New York (Mr. Solomon) and his family good health, happiness, and success in years ahead.”