David Thomas: “I rise to join other colleagues in talking about President Ronald Reagan, the Great Communicator, the great…”

“I rise to join other colleagues in talking about President Ronald Reagan, the Great Communicator, the great humanitarian. I will lie down and bleed awhile, and then I will rise and fight again. Ronald Reagan quoted Sir Andrew Barton's words after returning home from campaigning against Gerald Ford. Poignant words for a man who just 4 years later was elected the 40th President of the United States. The Nation and the world have lost a great treasure. Ronald Reagan was a master wordsmith, an international diplomat, a man whose genuine humanity gave Americans and people around the world a new sense of self-worth. He loved America first and foremost, so we stood behind our leader, our captain, our coach--to win one for the Gipper. Ronald Reagan held a deep devotion to principle, sought peace through strength, and encouraged everyone to believe in their convictions. He had a keen intellect, but he was underestimated by his critics. He disarmed many naysayers with his quick wit, crooked smile, thoughtful words, and a jar of jelly beans. He will forever be remembered by ending the cold war. His words 'Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall' echo in our mind's eye. Known as the Great Communicator, his philosophies changed the political direction this country was taking. His domestic policies gave us a smaller government rather than a larger one. These are just a handful of changes that will be the legacy left by Ronald Reagan.”