Richard K. Armey: “Ed Nichols, I remember, if I may, watching the House of Representatives back in 1982 and 1983, before I even thought of…”

“Ed Nichols, I remember, if I may, watching the House of Representatives back in 1982 and 1983, before I even thought of being a Member. I was always so impressed with the opening of the House, even as a citizen, having never in my life having been to Washington or in this Chamber, the ceremony, the seriousness of the matter, the professionalism by which the House is opened each day. Some days it seems like the last moment of professionalism for the House that day, as it gets to be a raucus-caucus place on occasion. But always when Ed Nichols would open that door and bring that mace before us, we knew something important was going to happen in the Nation's business that day. Ed has done this for 21 years as a service to his country, to this Chamber, and I believe to his family and to each Member here. If I might join the gentleman in wishing my best for you in retirement, may your home never be large enough to hold all your friends, and may you outlive all your enemies.”