Remarks by Representative Hechler

Of West Virginia

Mr. HECHLER. Mr. Speaker, as the Representative of the Fourth Congressional District of West Virginia, I rise to pay tribute to the late GEORGE H. CHRISTOPHER, who has so ably represented the Fourth Congressional District of Missouri.

I first met Mr. CHRISTOPHER not long after he arrived in the House of Representatives with the famous class of 1948 which brought so many able Members here for the first time, including two of Mr. CHRISTOPHER'S Missouri colleagues, Messrs. Bolling and Moulder. We talked about many things on this first meeting, and the lasting impression which I received was that here was a man who in the truest sense of the word was "down to earth."

He had a deep sympathy for the farmer, the worker, and the small businessman. I do not think I knew a man who had less social pretense than GEORGE CHRISTOPHER. A true son of the soil, he spoke his mind honestly, directly, and always with the deepest sympathy for the less privileged people.

It was fitting that GEORGE CHRISTOPHER should be President Truman's own Congressman, for Mr. CHRISTOPHER shared President Truman's passionate devotion to the cause of those who deserved a better break in the economic struggle to make a living.

During the New Deal days my uncle, W. Roy Hechler, administered the U.S. crop insurance program in Missouri and was also president of the Missouri Seed Corn Growers Association. In these capacities my uncle used to visit GEORGE CHRISTOPHER at his farm. I heard something of their conversations from both sides, and I got to like the way this Missouri farmer developed his simple philosophy of life.

We could use more men with GEORGE CHRISTOPHER'S philosophy.

Remarks by Representative Libonati

Of Illinois

Mr. LIBONATI. Mr. Speaker, the death of GEORGE H. CHRISTOPHER marks the passing of a great American, a forceful and sincere legislator and a firm and loyal friend. He personified the attributes of the positive thinking of all Missourians; show me if the facts are there.

His love for the farmer, and his intense interest in the study of farm problems were only equaled by his unswerving loyalty for their welfare. As Congressman of the Fourth District of Missouri, encircling Independence, Mo., he was ever in the forefront advising, sponsoring, and defending the progressive and healthy legislative farm program of his loyal and intimate constituent the colorful, fiery, forthright, positive, practical thinking, popular, former Democratic President of the United States, Harry S. Truman.

His marked resemblance both in mental attitude and fiery delivery to Mr. Truman was not a coincidence, but a natural circumstance as a result of their sincere down-to-earth philosophy.

He was well informed on many questions in public affairs. His spicy orations and courageous fortitude won him many friends. Always in pain and suffering, he still smiled and carried on.

The great loss of his dear wife several years ago did not embitter him-he loved people. It was an honor for any one of us to serve him in pleasant niceties at times.

He was a brave and lovable character. His seven sons and two daughters idolized him. He was a worthy public servant and sacrified for others throughout his life.

The good Lord knew of his physical sufferings and yet by force of will he persevered to serve his fellow man. His

blessed life spent in toil for his fellow man was God's reward to unite him with his dearly beloved mate. The distinguished Missourians in the Congress have lost a true leader who as an honest fighter, the Congress admired and revered. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family. Yes-Missouri and the Nation have lost an American eagle.

Remarks by Delegate Burns

Of Hawaii

Mr. BURNS of Hawaii. Mr. Speaker, it is with a real sense of personal loss that I join the Members of this House in paying tribute to the Honorable GEORGE H. CHRISTOPHER, of the Fourth District of Missouri. Though I knew him but a short time, I counted GEORGE CHRISTOPHER among my true proven friends.

We often refer to someone as being the salt of the earth. This description truly fitted Congressman GEORGE CHRISTOPHER. The originator of the term must have had in mind a person exactly resembling Representative CHRISTOPHER.

Ever ready with a story to lighten the burdens borne by his colleagues, ever ready to lend a helping hand, not waiting to be asked but offering his services, energetic in the cause of his constituents, knowledgeable as to humans, diligent in his duties as a Member of Congress both in committee and at meetings of the House of Representatives, the Honorable GEORGE CHRISTOPHER was outstanding in his service of right and justice as God gave him the light to see it, serving with charity, courage, intelligence, and strength.

To his family, I extend my deepest sympathy and understanding. The inspiration of Congressman GEORGE CHRISTOPHER Will remain with me and will continue to encourage all who knew him.

Remarks by Representative Metcalf

Of Montana

Mr. METCALF. Mr. Speaker, the sincere and moving tributes that have been paid to GEORGE CHRISTOPHER by so many of his colleagues here today is a better measure of the affection and esteem in which he was held than anything I can say. I do want to add my voice to those who have praised him, however, because I have suffered a great personal loss. We were both members of the Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs and sat next to each other in the committee room. For years, I have enjoyed his companionship, have benefited from his wisdom, and profited from his experience.

I shall miss his kindliness and his keen, humorous comments. GEORGE CHRISTOPHER was a dedicated patriot and a man of character and principle.

In extending my sympathy to his family and friends, I share a part of their loss.