Politics

Thanking Herb Shanks

By Karina

Anybody who has worked in the Capitol frequently had their day brightened by Herb Shanks, who retired today after almost four decades of service as the cloakroom attendant in the House Democratic Cloakroom:

This afternoon, Speaker Pelosi and Leader Hoyer had the privilege of leading a tribute on the House floor to thank Herb for his long service to the House. The Speaker’s remarks:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Herb Shanks, the Cloakroom Attendant of the House Democratic Cloakroom for the last 38 years.

Herb is retiring today after serving this institution much longer than probably most Members of Congress. Indeed, he has served under seven Speakers of the House, and generations of Members have depended upon him.

As the doorkeeper and cloakroom attendant, Herb has ensured the safety and security of House Members and staff by controlling access to the Democratic Cloakroom. He has also been a face of warm welcome to all Members.

Herb?s dedicated service is representative of the many staff who serve this institution, particularly those who work in both the Democratic and the Republican cloakrooms, and the nonpartisan officers who ensure smooth operations on the House floor. They may not be household names, but they proudly serve our nation?s families.

Herb is joined here today by his two twin daughters, Andrea and Angela. We thank them for sharing their father with us. We also note that Herb is a proud grandfather of four, and great grandfather of three.

Today, we will present Herb with a flag that flew over the Capitol in his honor on this, his day of retirement after 38 years of service. It is a fitting tribute to this great patriot: Herb Shanks. Thank you, Herb.

Full post as published by The Gavel on May 28, 2010 (boomark / email).