Welcome to Joe Turnham.com
Saturday, August 24, 2002
A Word from Joe:
HONORING THE LEGACY OF CONGRESSMAN BILL NICHOLS
As I travel the third congressional district,it is amazing how many east Alabama residents still fondly remember and respect the legacy of deceased Congressman Bill Nichols. Congressman Nichols served the third district for over 20 years and died while serving his constituents back in the 1980's.
Congressman Nichols served with my own father, Pete Turnham in WWII and later in the Alabama legislature. Both men were Auburn University graduates. Bill Nichols was a real constituent service oriented congressman who believed in doing the right thing and putting the district and its interests ahead of partisan agendas. Both Bill Nichols and my dad are two role models I seek to follow when elected to Congress.
In fact, several retired workers in Talladega County have told me that they felt like our campaign reminded them of the hard working Nichols team - what a compliment. Both Bill Nichols and Pete Turnham were part of the 'Greatest Generation'. Aspiring politicians would do well to quit touting Washington lines and get out among their own people and stress service to others and country rather than devotion to special interest agendas.
I pay tribute to a man who held the job that I ask the people to give me. I also hold his memory for congressional service in highest esteem and hope to serve the third district in his tradition. Good works done with purity of heart always live on beyond you. Joe
AMERICA'S GREATEST GENERATION
Last Christmas I gave my dad a copy of Tom Brokow's book, 'The Greatest Generation'. The premise of the book expounds on the fact that the depression era/WWII generation was the country's finest. As I float this idea out among folks of the 'Greatest Generation' I get affirming feedback, but also a bit of a scolding.
The 'Greatest Generation' was not as prosperous as this one. It was not as indulged, entertained, informed, and pampered. The 'Greatest Generation' never needed a reason to join the service, fight for freedom, sacrifice for family and country...it did it quietly but with historical thunder. It overcame a depression, won a world war and set forth one of the greatest economic miracles of history.
As I think about "Putting America First", I think about the 'Greatest Generation'. But as I delve into this subject with those of the 'Greatest Generation', I am reminded that the qualities of humility/ hope/service are the true ingredients of greatness. The 'Greatest Generation' desires that my generation be greater than theirs... not necessary richer, fatter or happier...but greater. As I ponder that challenge, I know that times have changed, but the mountain we climb may be just as steep. But quiet courage bathed with faith, and the ethics of hard work and sacrifice/humility define the call for greatness. I give thanks to all those that have shared their wisdom with me. I stand on your shoulders! God Bless America.
