On the recordNovember 21, 2013
Mr. Speaker, I rise today because tomorrow is the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. President Kennedy inspired me to get into government. I was only 14 years old when he passed. His death left an indelible mark on me and everybody of my generation who experienced that national sharing of grief that went on that weekend. President Kennedy was a person who said that politics is an honorable profession. I believe it is, and I believe people should get involved in politics and public service. He founded the Peace Corps and asked people to ``ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country,'' which was a call for service. It was a great loss to our Nation. He gave a great deal to our country. I would ask everybody to watch the TV specials, to read as much as they can, and to learn what they can about an honorable gentleman who tried to inspire people to get into government and do the right thing. I thank his family for his coming along because it inspired me. I got to see him in Memphis when he campaigned. He is my hero. ____________________





