Joe Wilson: “Thank you, Congressman Deal, for coordinating this tribute to a patriot. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute and…”

“Thank you, Congressman Deal, for coordinating this tribute to a patriot. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute and remembrance of my dear friend and our colleague Charlie Norwood. Upon my election 5 years ago, two of the first people to offer guidance to me were Charlie and Gloria Norwood. As a Member of Congress from an adjoining district, I learned firsthand of Charlie's dedication to the public and his love of America. Gloria has been a model First Lady for the district, enthusiastically assisting Charlie in his life of public service. Charlie was a committed health care practitioner, a loving family man and a passionate public servant. He spent his entire life fighting for the people of his beloved Georgia. True to his character, Charlie fought to the end, despite debilitating health conditions. He was always in good spirits, even though we knew he was exerting extraordinary efforts to fully represent his constituents. He reminded me so much of my predecessor, the late Congressman Floyd Spence, a fellow courageous lung transplant recipient. I had the pleasure of serving with Charlie on the Education and Workforce Committee. I am honored to, this year, be the Republican ranking member on the Workforce Protection Subcommittee, which Charlie ably chaired for three terms. In Congress, Charlie was an ardent advocate for health care reform and patients' rights. He was a good friend and strong supporter of the employees of the Savannah River Nuclear Laboratory.”