The U.S. Congress recognized Frank McCourt yesterday for his many contributions to American literature, education, and culture.

Rep. Michael McMahon (D-Staten Island/Brooklyn) made the following statement to Congress:

Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 743 which honors the life and work of accomplished Pulitzer-prize winning author Frank McCourt. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this important resolution.

“Frank McCourt’s was an exceptional author and educator whose contributions as are valued throughout America. He is remembered for his great literary masterpieces, including his well known autobiography, “Angela’s Ashes,” which tells his story of growing up in the slums of Brooklyn, New York and Limerick City, Ireland.

“Frank McCourt’s life is the story of a true American Dream. As a child of Irish immigrants, McCourt grew up during the depression and faced many grave challenges. McCourt was abandoned by his father, who was an alcoholic, at an early age. The family had seven children, three of whom died from disease. McCourt found himself struggling to hold down a job in order to feed his mother and surviving siblings. He worked effortlessly to provide a stable and healthy environment for his family during a time of worldwide economic depression.

“McCourt dropped out of school at the age of 13 and worked a series of janitorial jobs in New York hotels. After serving in the United States Army, Frank McCourt was granted a formal education at New York University even though he never received the required high school diploma.

“Frank McCourt’s professional career began as an educator 1958 when he landed his first job teaching English at Ralph R. McKee Career & Technical High School (McKee) located in my district of Staten Island, New York. McCourt went on to teach in the New York City Public school system for 27 years. McCourt always had a passion for creative writing and storytelling, and it was through his work at McKee high school where he developed the idea for “Angela’s Ashes.”

“Frank McCourt was once quoted in an interview saying that, “children are the most precious material we have in our country.” McCourt was a great example of a dedicated teacher and was an outspoken advocate for education. McCourt viewed teaching as the single most important profession in the country because teachers pave the way for our children’s future and enhance their lives.

“When Frank McCourt passed away earlier this year, our nation lost a great man, teacher, author, and friend. Madam Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to support H.Res 743 to honor the life, work and contributions of Frank McCourt.”