Political Quotes

“Madam Speaker, man of the House. The passing from this life of legendary Pennsylvania Congressman and Defense Appropriation Chairman and Marine Colonel John P. ``Jack'' Murtha truly represents a seismic shift in this Congress and in our Nation's history. His acumen, brass-tacks style, and man-of-his-word reputation are so rare. As the longest-serving woman in the current U.S. House, I came to know Jack Murtha well, serving with him for 28 years. In early February, he became the longest-serving member of the Pennsylvania delegation in U.S. history. No one had his grasp of our Nation's defense or his dexterity at ushering the complicated Defense Appropriation bill, the largest in Congress, with nearly unanimous bipartisan support. Jack put the soldier first. Each branch of the service, plus the Guard and Reserve, owe Jack great gratitude. He was indefatigable in their cause. Jack Murtha respected the awesome power of the U.S. military, but he also knew its limits. I have never served in this Congress when Jack Murtha wasn't here. Properly, a U.S. flag flown over this Capitol has been placed on his chair in the Pennsylvania corner where he anchored his work on the floor of this House that he loved. His knowledge, leadership, measure, and tutelage remain timeless gifts to those who shared his path. As the first Democratic woman to serve on the Defense Subcommittee of Appropriations, I can attest, it never would have happened but for his support and encouragement.…”