Davis Pays Tribute to President ReaganJune 09, 2004

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Rep. Lincoln Davis spoke this afternoon on the House floor to honor former President Ronald Reagan. Below are Davis' remarks:

Mr. Speaker,

The death of President Reagan, given his publicly known battle with Alzheimer's, did not come as a surprise to many, still many in the United States and around the world are greatly saddened by his departure.

He was an indelible figure not only in American history but world history. The man that helped bring about the end of the Cold War will always be praised for his eternal optimism, love of country, principle stances on issues, the eloquence in which he communicated with the nation, and his abundant faith.

It is my firm belief that President Reagan saw the best in everyone. As with most Americans, Reagan understood America's greatness lies within its people. It's the character of the American people that has guided us through all of the obstacles we've had to overcome. We recently celebrated the American spirit during the 60th anniversary of D-Day.

President Reagan was perceived as a man guided by principles. No matter what side of the isle you where on you always knew where he stood. His legacy will be the channels he opened to bring about peace between two super powers. His work can best be summed up by English author, Richard Adams, "The thinker dies, but his thoughts are beyond the reach of destruction. Men are mortal; but ideas are immortal."

A man of abundant faith in country, family, and God, Reagan embodied the American spirit. Even in knowing his time on Earth was nearing he wrote: 'When the Lord calls me home, whenever that may be, I will leave with the greatest love for this country of ours and eternal optimism for its future.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. Reagan and his children at this difficult time. May God bless them, and may God bless the United States of America.

# # #