On the recordFebruary 24, 2010
I am deeply honored and equally saddened to stand here in tribute to our colleague and to my friend, the late Jack Murtha. From the first day that I stepped onto this floor, Jack Murtha was a friend, was a mentor. He welcomed me graciously, sharing his wisdom, sharing his intellect, his wit, his humor. Jack and I, I think, quickly developed a very special relationship. I saw him sort of as my father on the floor, the person I could turn to. He was a mentor, always offering me that advice. Jack Murtha made sure that, as a new Member, I knew my constituents had to come first, that you represent the people who brought you here in every vote. He was enormously helpful to all of us here. Certainly, if I had a question or a concern or an issue in my district, I'd first turn to Jack Murtha and get his advice on how I should proceed.
