Washington, D.C. — Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Republican Leader of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement on the life and legacy of Ross Perot. 

“Ross Perot was a remarkable North Texan whose footprint of entrepreneurial spirit, generosity, and leadership extends far beyond our local community. From humble roots in Texarkana, Perot wrote his own success story – embodying the American dream – that continues to make an impact throughout the world. A savvy and hardworking entrepreneur, Perot founded two successful businesses, Electronic Data Systems (EDS) and Perot Systems Corporation, in North Texas.

“After completing his service in the U.S. Navy, Perot continued to fight for servicemembers and fellow veterans throughout his life. During the Vietnam War, he advocated on behalf of American POWs, efforts for which he later received the Winston Churchill Award. Perot also was instrumental in urging the Department of Veterans Affairs to research the neurological causes of Gulf War Syndrome as soldiers returned from the Middle East, helping to ensure that those who served received the care they needed. 

“As a mentor and partner to his son, Ross Perot, Jr., Perot can be credited with building many North Texas neighborhoods – both in structure and community – that have contributed to our region’s growth. In the 1980s, Perot and his son joined forces to lead the effort to build Alliance Airport, which has vastly expanded air capacity and growth in Tarrant and Denton Counties as part of AllianceTexas.

“I am grateful for Perot’s many contributions to North Texas, our country, and the international community. He has left an unmatched legacy of service that will continue to benefit others. I offer my condolences to Perot’s wife, Margot, to their family, and to the many people whose lives he touched.”

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