Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. press release, October 1, 2002

г MEWS FROM Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. Second Congressional District of Maryland 1407 York Rood, Suita 304 Lufb.rv.IU, Morylond 21093 3 1 5 Cannon Hovm Offic* Building Washington, D.C 20515 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Henry Fawell Tuesday, October 1 , 2002 202/225-3061 It’s Unanimous: Johnny Unitas Honored By Congress In Speech Before Congress, Ehrlich Remembers Friend’s “Golden Arm and Golden Heart” WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Ehrlich’s (MD-2) congressional resolution in honor of the late Johnny Unitas, Hall of Fame quarterback for the Baltimore Colts, was adopted unanimously today in the House of Representatives. House Resolution 538 celebrates the life of Johnny Unitas and the indelible impression he left on the City of Baltimore. Ehrlich spoke before the House of Representatives in remembrance of his longtime friend. “Johnny Unitas was larger than life. He was an institution in Baltimore, but he never lost his unique sense of humility and kindness. He always took the time to sign a few autographs or help a young quarterback tighten his spiral,” Ehrlich said. Ehrlich, a former college linebacker, remembered Unitas’ impact on a generation of young athletes. “I played linebacker at the Gilman School in Baltimore and later at Princeton University. The Chicago Bears’ Dick Butkus set the standard for how to play linebacker, but Johnny Unitas set the standard for how to play the game. He defined leadership and integrity for young athletes like myself,” he added. After attending the Unitas memorial service, Ehrlich decided it was appropriate for Congress to honor Unitas for his on-the-field achievements in addition to his tireless charitable work. Unitas founded the Golden Arm Educational Opportunity Fund, has supported cystic fibrosis research, and worked on behalf of victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. “Best known for a golden arm, Johnny Unitas’ greatest gift was a golden heart that never stopped giving. Through charitable efforts that are bound to thrive even after his passing, his spirit of compassion will live on in the City of Baltimore and the nation, ” Ehrlich said. Former Nebraska Head Coach and current Member of Congress Tom Osborne also delivered remarks. The full text of Congressman Ehrlich’s speech are attached. m