Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. press release, May 23, 2000

NEWS FROM Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. Second Congressional District of Maryland 1407 York Road, Suite 304 Lutherville, Maryland 21093 315 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Jill Homan May 23, 2000 202/225-3061 Rep. Bob Ehrlich Helps to Award Pope John Paul II Congressional Gold Medal WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. announced the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation today to award Pope John Paul II the Congressional Gold Medal. The House voted overwhelmingly to support the bill, H.R. 3544. Congressman Ehrlich stated, "Pope John Paul is one of the truly heroic figures of our time. He is a man of great compassion whose tireless campaign to defend the dignity of every human life has been an inspiration to people of all faiths. "Few individuals did more to prompt the demise of Soviet communism and bring freedom to the millions who suffered under that brutal regime. "I am honored to announce this important bill after the freedom-loving world recently celebrated Pope John Paul’s 80th birthday." Congress has commissioned Congressional Gold Medals since the American Revolution as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. This award has also been given to such diverse individuals as Sir Winston Churchill, Bob Hope, George Washington, Robert Frost, Joe Louis, and Mother Teresa of Calcutta. c