Honoring the Life of President Ronald Reagan

HONORING THE LIFE OF PRESIDENT RONALD REAGAN -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 25, 2004)

SPEECH OF HON. MICHAEL K. SIMPSON OF IDAHO
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2004

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, every visitor who comes to my office is greeted by a plaque that bears the inscription of Ronald Reagan's signature and this quote, "There's no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he doesn't mind who gets the credit." These words are characteristic of the great man that served as the fortieth President of the United States of America. I am involved with politics today because of the inspiration I received from Ronald Reagan. I believe he was the true example of what a statesman can be, and I hold that example close to my heart as I carry out my own duties.

President Reagan will always be remembered as an unabashed patriot. He was convinced of the ability of the United States to provide the hope of freedom to those enslaved by totalitarianism and communism. President Reagan's vision of the world and the future of this country would not be dimmed or daunted by ideological threat, and he was not afraid to stand up to tyranny and aggression. From the beginning of his presidency, President Reagan realized the potential cost of inaction and weakness in the face of Soviet defiance and nuclear threat, and he took action. Through a series of defense budgets, he increased defense spending 35 percent during his two terms, ensuring the country the resources necessary for security. Additionally, President Reagan managed to negotiate the first U.S.-Soviet treaty to reduce the number of nuclear weapons through a series of four summits with Mikhail Gorbachev. President Reagan was always clear about what he expected and never more so than when he pleaded at the Brandenberg Gates, "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!"

President Reagan planted democracy in regions of the world that have never tasted the joys of freedom. He taught newly liberated people across the globe that hard work and faith in God could result in prosperity, a sense of satisfaction in one's own legacy, and a better outlook for tomorrow. He wanted the American dream to be a reality throughout the world.

President Reagan will also be remembered as a man of humble beginnings. He proclaimed America as a place where "everyone can rise as high and as far as his ability will take him." Born in Tampico, Illinois, President Reagan used his abilities to establish a career in Hollywood. He continued to work and learn as he rose through California politics and went on to serve two successful terms as the leader of our nation. He wanted all Americans to have the same freedom and opportunity to pursue success, and he consistently promoted that ideal through policies of limited government. He said, "Government can and must provide opportunity, not smother it; foster productivity, not stifle it."

What makes Ronald Reagan most unforgettable was his unfailing optimism. Even as our nation mourns, we cannot help but smile at the thought of his cheerful and radiant personality. President Reagan possessed a sense of humor strong enough to withstand even the pain of an assassin's bullet. Demonstrating his trademark good nature, he said to the doctors about to operate on his bullet wounds, "I hope you're all Republicans." It was this characteristic sanguinity that swept up a downtrodden America and reenergized its faith in freedom, the Presidency, and our military.

Ronald Reagan was many things. He was a man of reason, a man of sincerity, a man willing to listen. And he is a man whose character, grace, and wisdom will be deeply missed by this nation.

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