On the recordDecember 9, 2014
Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand here today with my Texas colleagues and say a few words about our most treasured friend, mentor, leader, and hero, Ralph Hall. Ralph's lifetime of service to his country and fellow man are full of victories, as we already heard, and highlights too numerous to count. As a young lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, Ralph served his country and flew planes in World War II. Once the next Congress convenes, we will sorely miss the only two remaining World War II veterans currently in Congress, also including Congressman Dingell. Ralph Hall has an appreciation for America that very few of us can understand. He understands sacrifice, he understands service, and he understands putting one's self aside for the greater good. My friend has always been an accomplished businessman, having successfully served in a number of executive roles in the private sector. He brought his business savvy and military experience to Congress, which undoubtedly contributed to his reputation for being one of the most respected and well-liked Members we have ever had. His ability to bring humor into every situation was not just to get a laugh; it was his unique way of bringing different viewpoints together to find common ground. Mr. Speaker, Congressman Ralph Hall has served north Texas well and deserves recognition for his many legislative accomplishments.…





