Tribute to Congressman John T. Myers

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. ROKITA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Congressman John T. Myers, an American patriot, a dedicated public servant and a great Hoosier who passed away on January 27, 2015. I consider the words recorded on the floor of this House to be the official record of our nation. As such, please allow me to submit the following:

John Myers was born and raised in Covington, Indiana and graduated from Covington High School. His service to our Nation began immediately after his high school graduation when he joined the United States Army. He later earned his B.S. at Indiana State University in 1951 and also attended Eastern Illinois University where he was a member of Sigma Pi.

Though working in the Indiana banking industry, Myers never abandoned his farming roots as he continued to work a farm in Fountain County. Before long however, Myers returned his attention to public service becoming a member of this honorable House of Representatives. He first took office in 1967, winning fifteen consecutive elections and continuing his admirable public service for 30 years before retiring in 1997.

During his tenure representing Indiana's 7th District in the United States Congress.
Mr. Myers became known locally as an essential player in the Lafayette Railroad Relocation Project, a three decades long project that moved the trains from city streets and into a dedicated corridor. The Main Street Bridge was in fact renamed in his honor after the pedestrian bridge was opened as part of the rail relocation project.

As Indiana Governor Pence noted while paying tribute to Congressman Myers, ``The legacy of public service he leaves behind is unmatched, and we do well to strive to emulate his example.''

Congressman Myers passed away in his Covington home leaving behind his wife Carol, daughters Carol Ann Myers and Lori Jan Kerns, seven grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

I offer my sincerest condolences to the Myers family. We grieve with you as we mourn the loss of a great Hoosier who lived a life of servant leadership while humbly representing our district in the U.S. House of Representatives for three decades. Congressman Myers legacy will not be forgotten. His example is a challenge to all of us to rededicate ourselves to serving in our communities and working with our neighbors.

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