The following is the text of Congressman Michael C. Burgess' remarks from the Unveiling of the Byron Nelson Congressional Gold Medal Saturday, April 28, 2007:

"It is with sincere joy and great honor that I stand before you today, for the unveiling of the Byron Nelson Congressional Gold Medal design. While my public effort to award the fine gentleman from Texas with this distinct honor began a few years ago, my respect and admiration for Mr. Nelson extends back to my earliest memories.

"My mother, a wonderfully sweet woman, remarked that Byron Nelson was the kind of man we should aspire to be. Gracious, kind, intelligent, caring and above all, compassionate. He was a gentleman by definition but more importantly, by his actions.

"As we celebrate his life today at his namesake tournament, it is not without sadness that we miss his warm heart and cheerful smile.

"Modest in all respects, and honest to the core, I was honored to watch a golf tournament with him just about a year ago in his home, with Peggy, in Roanoke. He was sharp, witty and a consummate educator even though only Peggy and I could hear the tips and pointers he provided the players at the Master’s.

"Even while he was chiseling his way into being a golf legend, Byron Nelson remained an avid learner. He kept a notebook about his own golf skills and reviewed them carefully ensuring he learned from his mistakes. This small nugget of continuing to strive to be your best is something that he instilled in others – many of whom are here with us today.

"As he moved on from golf, he continued to expand his vibrant personality to his family, friends and fans. He championed many causes. He easily could have rested on his laurels, but instead he turned to a life of service.

"He loved the Lord, he love Peggy, and he cared about humanity. He strived to put his best foot forward without stepping on others. He strove to be the best man he could without ever being prideful. Perhaps my largest challenge in pushing the bill into law, was actually convincing Byron that he deserves this award – the highest civilian award which may be bestowed by the United States Congress.

"I am thankful that I knew Byron Nelson. I hope those of you here today had that same honor. And I believe that the Byron Nelson Congressional Gold Medal will stand as a testament through the ages of Byron generous spirit."

Bronze duplicates of the medal will be available to purchase via the U.S. Mint's website. The official ceremony and presentation of the Congressional Gold Medal to Peggy Nelson will occur later in 2007 in Washington, DC.