J.C. Watts: “our colleague, Congressman Ron Dellums of California, is not only a fine and distinguished Member of this body. He is…”

“our colleague, Congressman Ron Dellums of California, is not only a fine and distinguished Member of this body. He is also a fine American, a man whom all of our children should study as a role model . . . not because of his impeccable dress, especially today, in an era when kids are content to run around with baseball caps turned backwards and inside out . . . but for his example of what leadership and statesmanship is all about. Congressman Ron Dellums has paid some serious dues over the course of his life to get to where he is today. He is a man who decided early on, at age 18, to enlist in the United States Marine Corps and risk his life for this country's prosperity. After many years as an activist, working to give a voice to the voiceless in the San Francisco Bay Area, Ron Dellums decided to serve his country once again, as a Member of the United States Congress. As a member of the House National Security Committee for over 26 years, Ron Dellums has worked tirelessly to advance the interests of America's military men and women. Even in instances when Members on the Committee have disagreed with his views, Congressman Ron Dellums has been fair, deliberate and open-minded. In my dealings with him, I have noticed that Ron Dellums has always worked tirelessly to resolve disputes within the National Security Committee and move along the business of building the best American military possible.”