Thomas Foley: “I, too, join today with my colleagues in saluting a great American, a wonderful friend, a wonderful colleague. The…”

“I, too, join today with my colleagues in saluting a great American, a wonderful friend, a wonderful colleague. The United States Congress and the constituents of the 9th Congressional District in California will sorely miss you, Ron. One of my first days on this floor in the 104th Congress I had a chance to witness what I believe is one of the greatest orators of this chamber, and that was you. You inspired me that day. You delivered a speech that was so important in my life. And I think of the fights we have had since, not against each other but for common issue, and that was the B-2 bomber. And I learned so much. I learned so much. I think the greatest thing we can do in this body is share knowledge and share opportunity with your colleagues to make this country a better place, and you have shared more than you can ever imagine with this young Member from Florida. I have learned style. I have learned grace. I have learned about equality. I have learned about patience. I have learned that there is a time to speak and there is a time to listen. You have taught me so much of those great lessons here. You have been able to reach out across the audience. You have been able to reach out across the aisle. You have been able to focus on some of America's greatest strengths and shore up some of our great weaknesses. I believe you brought together people of all races, all ethnicities in the fight for a strong defense.”